CHAPTER IV.
A SERIOUS SET-BACK.
Earl and Randy could scarcely believe their ears.. What was this gentleman in rusty black saying, that two men had been identified as themselves and had called for the money sent on by their Uncle Foster?
"There is a mistake somewhere," said the clerk, turning to the brothers. "You say you are Earl and Randolph Portney?"
"We are," both replied, in a breath.
"Two men were here not two hours ago and were identified as the ones to receive the money. They had a letter from their uncle, in which he wanted them to come to San Francisco and join him in a trip to Alaska."
"That letter was ours!" burst out Earl. "I lost it a couple of days ago."
The clerk turned to the elderly gentleman, who looked more serious than ever.
"Have you any idea who those men were?" asked the gentleman.
"They were a couple of thieves, that's certain," said
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