"Gladly, my boy; but how can you? What is there that any one can do? I am like a sinking ship," said Eversleigh, mournfully. "Will you tell me if you have overhauled Mr. Silwood's books and papers?" "No, I have not. I began, but desisted." "Why, father?" "Because I thought Williamson was suspicious. I felt sure that he was watching me. So I stopped, and allowed things to drift." "But, father, the only chance you have lies in making this investigation. If Williamson is in the way, he must be got rid of." "Would not that in itself excite remark?" "Not necessarily, surely. But if his going does cause remark, we shall just have to put up with it. Besides, we can give him an excellent character and a gratuity--these will salve his feelings." "But what excuse can I make?" "Can you not say you are going to make extensive changes, owing to Mr. Silwood's death?" "He has been such a long time with us," objected Eversleigh. "Yes, I know; but you cannot afford to keep a man who suspects you. At any cost, he must go." "He is a good clerk," began Eversleigh. "I wonder if he really is!" exclaimed Gilbert. "If he was such a good clerk, how was it that he did not know of Silwood's defalcations?" "Perhaps he does know." "If he does, it would be well to be sure of it. Have him in now, and tell him he is to go. If he knows anything he will speak out." "You are so impetuous," said Eversleigh, feebly. "I have a strong feeling," replied Gilbert, "that your safety lies in immediate action." "And what would be your next step?" "I should get in an accountant familiar with legal work, and have him go over all Silwood's books and papers. Silwood cannot have disposed of all the moneys and properties of the firm without leaving some indication of how he did it; and perhaps an investigation may reveal that things are not so bad as you think. He cannot have disposed of everything. For instance, there must be certain trusts and other matters with which he could not tamper. Suppose we try to look into them all, father." A spark of hope shone for a moment in Eversleigh's eyes, but it speedily went out. "I am quite willing, Gilbert, but I am afraid it will not be any use," he said, dejectedly. "Whom would you think of getting to examine the books and papers?" "I fancy I know the very man. Young Archer Martin, of Roscoe and Martin." "Could you depend on his discretion?" "Absolutely." Eversleigh was silent. His impulse was to surrender himself to the guidance of his son; but he was sore afraid. Gilbert saw from his father's face that he was hesitating. "There is no other way, father," he cried, with decision. "Then be it so," agreed Eversleigh. "And what about Williamson?" "Can you not let him remain, at least, for a time?" "I think not, sir." "Well, well. I am not sure it is wise."