“Why cannot you let it remain where it is for the present? The investment is safe and the interest sure,” said Judge Bigelow. “There isn't safer security in the state,” spoke up Mr. Dewey, with animation. “It isn't the kind of security we wish to hold,” said Mr. Wilkinson firmly. “We have given heavy bonds, and prefer to get the property in a different shape.” Here followed a chilling silence, which was broken by Mr. Wallingford. “There is one way in which this can be arranged,” said he. All eyes were turned upon him. “If it is not convenient to transfer to new parties interests of such magnitude, we will take, at a fair valuation, the Allen House and grounds appertaining thereto, including the mill site.” Mr. Dewey was on his feet in a moment, and said-- “Never!” with considerable excitement of manner. Judge Bigelow and Squire Floyd looked at each other in a bewildered manner, and then at Mr. Dewey, who was walking the floor with many signs of disturbance. “This is the family property,” continued Mr. Wallingford, coolly--“and ought never to have been sold. It is but fair that it should come back.” “It can't go back,” spoke up Mr. Dewey. “The present owners will not let it pass out of their hands.” “If that is the case,” said Mr. Wallingford, “we shall have to look in another direction. It occurred to me that this might suit all parties, and lead to an easy arrangement. But if that cannot be--if the present owners, to use Mr. Dewey's words, will not let it go back--then my suggestion falls to the ground, and we must look to the investments as they stand. We do not press the matter.” I observed Mr. Dewey closely; the amount of feeling he displayed having drawn my attention upon him. Once or twice I saw him dart malignant glances towards Mr. Wallingford. And so, by degrees, I began to have a glimpse of what was passing in his mind. To go out from that elegant home, and let Wallingford succeed him as the owner, was something to which his proud heart could not submit--Wallingford, the once despised and contemned student of his uncle! That was too bitter a humiliation. As nothing could then be decided, another meeting, to take place in three or four days, was agreed upon, and we separated. CHAPTER XXVI. As my profession kept me going about all the while, I had opportunities for observing the movements of other people. The day following the meeting referred to in the last chapter, I saw Dewey, the Judge, and the Squire together several times, and always in earnest talk. As I came home, towards evening, I saw them all entering Mr. Dewey's residence. It was plain that there was trouble in the camp. On the next day, Mr. Dewey left town. I noticed him going into a car at the depot. When the time came for our meeting, a postponement was asked for. I felt like demurring, but Mr. Wallingford readily consented.