"I'll establish the Armstrong Company in new offices, across the street from Consolidated. I'll open a fight upon the present directorate, as soon as Dorns learns what they're doing. A good many of my own men over there will resign when they discover what's taken place--" "One moment, please," intervened Mansfield. "Didn't you mention Judge Holcomb as one of your directors?" "Ostensibly, yes. He has never taken a very active part in affairs. He is elderly, and has rather given up active business." A singular smile twisted the lawyer's lips. "I know Judge Holcomb very well, Mr. Armstrong; we are friends of long standing. Old as he is, no man has a more reputable position, and no man can fight harder. I suggest that the entire truth be laid before him at once, and his help invited by you." "I'll do it," assented Armstrong. "Now, I propose making an active campaign to reach each individual investor in Consolidated Securities. Of course, I have as yet no direct proof that Macgowan and his friends mean to loot the company; once that proof is secured, I'll go ahead strong." Mansfield nodded. "Very well. Get your campaign mapped out and make all your plans. I shall see Robert Dorns when he gets this man Wren back to town, and we shall decide upon things. Until you hear from us, secure Judge Holcomb to our side and await events." Armstrong returned to his hotel feeling rejuvenated, a new man in very fact. The sense of crushing defeat was clean gone from him. True, the defeat was no less severe, yet the sting was out of it. Now he would fight! He went to bed and slept, a smile upon his lips. When he wakened, it was to see Dorothy at his bedside, sitting there watching him. He stared dazedly, then sat up in astounded wonder. "A telegram came from Evarts just after you left for New York," she said quietly. "I read it, and knew there was trouble. So I came." "Thank God for you!" said Armstrong, and pressed her fingers to his lips. "Yesterday I--I was glad you were not here. But now I can tell you about it." "Let's go home first, dear." CHAPTER V Within four days, the Armstrong Company was established in new offices directly across the street from the stronghold of Consolidated Securities. The separation was not accomplished without pain, and considerable effort as well. There was no objection from Consolidated; could be none. Bickering in the parlor was echoed below-stairs, however; a violent controversy raged through the offices between Armstrong's men and those whom Macgowan had attached to himself. Among these latter, Armstrong found some of his own experts ranked. His disillusionment was rapidly becoming complete. Judge Holcomb, being made acquainted with full details, quietly resigned from the directorate of Consolidated; an occurrence which, though passing without great comment, was destined to have momentous results later.