He commenced by asking Ray where he had been living two years before, and then followed along until he had a very fair idea of the boy's history during that period. He seemed satisfied with Ray's answers, as though they were just what he had expected. Then he suddenly asked: "You have formed the very laudable purpose of entering some academy this fall, and securing an education, had you not, Mr. Branford?" "Yes, sir; I had thought of it," admitted the astonished lad. "May I ask if you have the means for carrying out this proposed course of study? I ask as a friend," he added. Ray could not understand the man's purpose in asking such a question,--nor, in fact, any of the questions he had so far asked,--but he had no real objection to telling him just how he was situated, so he replied: "I did have enough saved to defray my expenses for a year at school, and was intending to have entered some academy last September; but owing to some unexpected expenses, I had to delay my going for a time. Perhaps I shall not be able to go until another year." And he gave a deep sigh, for no one but himself knew how hard it had been for him to give up his pet scheme. "I suppose you would be very glad to earn money enough to enter school, say this coming winter term, and pursue those studies through without interruption to a full graduation?" Mr. Gregory now asked. "I rather guess I would, if I could do it honestly," answered Ray, his eyes brightening at the very thought. The two men looked at each other significantly a moment. Then Mr. Wilson arose and went to the door of the room. Opening it, he looked up and down the hall, listening intently. Satisfied at last with his examination, he closed and locked the door, and came back to his chair. Both gentlemen now drew their chairs a little closer to Ray's, while Mr. Gregory asked, with a peculiar emphasis upon his words: "Mr. Branford, where were you on the night the Black Forge Mills were burned?" Ray gave a great start. How much did these men know of that night's work? What was their purpose in asking? He finally answered, though with manifest hesitation: "I was there at Black Forge." "Were you not the very first to discover that fire?" Mr. Gregory asked, a little sharply. "Yes, sir," replied Ray. The lawyer fastened those piercing eyes upon the lad, and inquired slowly and distinctly: "Have you any objection to telling us where you were when you first saw the fire, and where you immediately went upon discovering it?" Ray colored a little, but otherwise was perfectly calm, as he answered: "I at present see no reason why I should tell you." The lawyer smiled and changed his tactics.