In view of the fact that Tim Short confessed his guilt, and that he was the tool of Matthew De Vere, he was saved from going to prison, and was sent instead to serve three years in the State reform school, where he was compelled to learn a trade, and to conform to a rigid disciplinary system. Jacob Simmons was found guilty of blackmail, and was sentenced to one year at hard labor in the State prison, in addition to a fine of three hundred dollars. But where was Matthew De Vere all this time? Among those who congratulated Fred, none did so with more sincerity than did Nellie Dutton, and the flattering remarks made about him by the entire village were very gratifying to her. As she and Fred talked over the trying events of the preceding months, she remarked that she had learned to esteem him more highly than ever. "To hear you say that, Nellie," said he gratefully, "more than repays me for all I have suffered from Matthew De Vere's malice." "I am glad, then, that we are such good friends," said Nellie thoughtfully. "Yes, even better than in the old days, are we not?" said Fred, almost affectionately. "We know each other better, I think," answered Nellie. Then she went to the piano, and, playing her own accompaniment, she sang with unusual effect one of Fred's favorite songs. A few days after the trial Fred received a note from Mr. De Vere, asking him to come to the bank. Obtaining permission to leave the mill Fred started off. He found the bank president looking worn and anxious. Mr. De Vere greeted him kindly, and said: "Fred, I have sent for you to offer you a position. Would you like to become a banker?" Fred was thoroughly surprised at such a proposition. "I can hardly realize that such an opportunity is before me," he said. "I thank you sincerely, Mr. De Vere, but I can't understand why you should offer it to me when there are so many others better fitted for it." "There are two reasons, my boy. First, I owe you some recompense for all the injury and injustice Matthew has done you. I cannot believe he foresaw all that would follow his first petty revenge, but was forced on, step by step, by a wicked man. But the injury to you was the same, and my wife and daughter join me in feeling that we owe you this reparation." "Do not think of such a thing, Mr. De Vere. You are not responsible, and I would not think of accepting a position on that account." Mr. De Vere handed Fred a letter. "Read this," he said. The letter was from Matthew, headed "Chicago." It contained a full confession of his crime, and gave all the circumstances that led up to it. He begged his parents and sister to forgive him. Upon this point he said: Oh, if you only knew what I have suffered, and am still suffering, on account of my foolish and wicked acts, I think you would have charity for me.