In his anger he kicked the tin box furiously; and, not content with that, he picked it up and flung it as far as he was able. He pictured to himself Gerald entering the bank and depositing the gold—his gold, as he regarded it—and entertaining the bank officials with an account of the way in which he had evaded the robber. If only he could be revenged upon Gerald, that would be a satisfaction though the gold coins were lost. Meanwhile Gerald kept on his way till he reached the bank. He introduced himself to the receiving teller as representing Mr. Nixon, and began to draw out the gold coins from his pocket. "You seem loaded down with gold," said the teller. "Why didn't you bring the money in a box or bag?" "I started with it in a box, but put it in my pockets for security." "You thought that more secure?" "Yes, sir. But for my doing so I should have been robbed." "How is that?" Gerald explained the encounter with the tramp. "I see you are right," said the teller, approvingly. "The thief will probably be considerably disappointed when he opens the box." "I should like to have been present and witnessed his surprise," said Gerald, laughing. "Are you not afraid he will waylay you on your way back, and try to get revenge?" Gerald looked thoughtful. He realized the danger. "What would you advise me to do?" he asked. "I'll tell you. How soon do you start?" "In an hour." "Would you object to a companion?" "No. I should be glad of company." "Then it can be arranged. My brother-in-law wants to go to Campville. He is a strong, robust man, who is six feet in height, and would tip the scales at two hundred. If you have him with you I think your dishonest friend won't be in any hurry to attack you." Gerald listened to these words with satisfaction. He knew that the highwayman was more than a match for him in physical strength, and might inflict upon him a serious injury. The plan proposed would insure his safety. It chanced at this moment that the person referred to entered the bank. "Louis," said the receiving teller, "here is a young man who offers to give you a ride to Campville." "I shall consider it quite a favor." "I ought to warn you that he may be stopped by a highwayman. If you feel nervous——" "If there is only one person, I think we can manage him, Mr.——" "Lane—Gerald Lane. Mr. Lane, here is my brother-in-law, Louis Bean." Gerald shook hands with his new acquaintance, and gave a brief account of his encounter with the tramp on his way over. "We will give him a warm reception if he undertakes to attack us, Mr. Lane. You played a neat trick on him. So you represent Mr. Nixon?" "Yes, sir. I shall remain with him for a time." "Have you known him long?" "I was sent out by a friend in the East, to whom he wrote, explaining his need of help." "I suppose the old man is rich?" "At any rate, he has money enough to support himself in comfort."