CHAPTER XVII.
CLUES AND A CONFESSION.
"You—you have bought a controlling interest in the works?" he cried, slowly.
"Yes. Day before yesterday I purchased Mr. Gregory's interest and yesterday received an option on the shares of the Greenwood estate, which will be transferred to me to-day."
"But—but I thought you—that is—you know the works don't pay very much—"
"They haven't heretofore, but they will—after some needed improvements have been made, Buckman. But let us settle this matter of the damaged machines first."
"Certainly, sir, certainly, if you wish it. I will get the bottle at once."
"Toady!" murmured Belden Brice under his breath.
The superintendent, with his face drawn up into a perfect study, disappeared into the main office. In a moment he was back, carrying a square bottle wrapped up in an old newspaper.
Belden Brice took the package and first looked
