Poor Peter was in great perplexity. He thrust his hands deep into his trousers pockets and trotted up and down the room in an agony of doubt. “These fellows are determined,” he thought, “and it’s all up with Elwell.” He was no worse than his fellows. If he could have seen any chance for Elwell’s winning in the end, he would have preferred fighting on his side. But with this determined man to deal with, there did not seem to be any chance for the other side. It was mighty hard, he thought, to have to throw over a good connection--and a prospective good business--only to go down in the general wreck that was sure to follow. But how could he help it? Elwell would tell the whole story if he was pushed. And Peter knew how much _his_ reputation would suffer in the recital. So he could see no way out of it. He was in the same boat with Elwell, and there was no way of escape left open. It was a bad job all around, and his repeated furtive glances at Conway did not lessen his vexation. There was something in that clean-cut, determined-looking face that made Peter very uneasy. “Devil take him!” he thought irritably. “I wish I knew who he is, and what he is going to do.” Conway had noted the lawyer’s distrust of him, and it amused him in spite of his wretchedness. He sat silent and impassive, while Jim drummed impatiently on the desk with his fingers. At last Coleman stopped in front of them. “I am sorry, gentlemen,” he said, somewhat ruefully; “I am sorry I can not represent you. But we lawyers have to be very careful. And I am bound to say that, while I have as yet received no instructions from the other side, I expect they will rely on my services.” “I think you are mistaken,” said Conway quietly. “If you will read this note, I think you will see that your interests lie altogether with us;” and he handed him the note from Lettie that had called him to Chicago. Peter took it, and as he glanced over it his face fell. “Curse the girl!” he muttered heartily. Then turning to Conway, he asked: “What do you know?” “A great deal,” replied that gentleman, smiling quietly. “Among other things, I know how that divorce was procured.” “I _thought_ you meant danger,” was the lawyer’s mental comment, as he took another restless turn across the room. He had to surrender, so he did it as gracefully as possible. “I see there is no use of fighting,” he said quietly, as he resumed his seat. “So, gentlemen, I am with you from necessity. Just tell me what I am to do.” “We do not want your help,” replied Conway sternly. “We simply want to know that you will not help him. Where can this Morain be found?” “He and his daughter left for Grand Rapids early this morning. They know nothing about this.” “Can you reach them by telegraph?” The lawyer bowed. “Very well. Telegraph them to return at once. But first write me a note to this rascal, and make it strong. Tell him that you will act in our interest from this out.”