“The question of an oversupply of gold may become a serious, even an appalling one. The problem threatens soon to become vital. The mystery cannot remain a mystery much longer. Civilization may in self-defense soon demand its solution. In the meantime, a single hint may be offered. Early in November last, the steamship _Richmond_ returned from a mysterious trip, several weeks in length, under private charter. She brought back a cargo, said to consist of ores and other minerals from South America. Was there any connection between her cargo and the sudden distribution of gold which began in this market a month after her arrival?” Late in the afternoon of the day this article appeared in the _Sun_, the head of one of the most prominent law firms in New York entered the office of that paper, and was soon closeted with the publisher. The two men were friends, and they chatted for a few moments on indifferent topics. Then said the lawyer seriously: “Now to business, for I have come on an extraordinary errand. I remember a few years ago that some of your quarrelsome contemporaries accused the _Sun_, among other things, of being for sale. You replied to the insinuation in a short editorial which said, Yes, the _Sun_ was for sale, and the price was $5,000,000. What I want to know is, whether that offer still holds good.” “No, the price has gone up,” was the smiling reply. “What is it now?” “Ten millions.” “Are you prepared to turn the property over at that figure?” “Oh, yes--for spot cash,” still smiling. “Will certified checks do?” and the lawyer took several checks from a wallet, and laid them on the desk in front of the other. “See here, B----, what does this mean?” exclaimed the publisher, glancing from the drafts to his friend, while all signs of levity disappeared. “Precisely what I have been saying. I am ready to close the bargain at the figures you have mentioned.” “Who are you acting for?” “That is the one thing I cannot tell you. Does it make any difference? If so, I can assure you that there is no political or other game back of the transaction. There is no intention to make any change whatever in the conduct of the paper, if our offer is accepted. But it must be accepted at once or it will be withdrawn. What do you say?” “Of course, I must consult Mr. Dana and the other owners. I believe, however, it will be accepted.” “Can you give me a final answer to-morrow?” “I think so. Will you come in in the morning and talk the matter over with the directors? We can meet here at noon.” “Yes, I will be here,” said the lawyer, picking up his checks and rising to go. “By the way, would it be fair under the circumstances for me to ask a single favor?” “Certainly--anything in my power.” “It is only that you will delay any investigation of the gold mystery until this matter is settled.” “Oh, now I see which way the wind blows. We’ll talk of that to-morrow.” CHAPTER IX.