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THE ROVER BOYS DOWN EAST

was unprincipled. The two fixed up the plot to get the fortune—and got it."

"I hope they haven't got Mrs. Stanhope, too," murmured Dick.

"I think Crabtree would rather have the money than have the lady," said Dan.

"Well, we'll know all about the case tomorrow," said Sam. "I am dead tired now and am going to bed," he added, looking at his watch.

"What time is it?"

"Quarter to twelve."

"Gracious, Dan, I didn't think we were keeping you up so late!" cried the eldest Rover boy.

"Oh, that's all right, Dick. I'm glad you came—it saved me the trouble of sending that letter."

"You can go to bed," went on Dick, to his brothers. "I'll stay up a bit longer and see if any message comes from dad."

The Rovers left Dan Baxter's apartment, and Sam and Tom retired, both worn out from their day's exertions. Dick went below, to interview the hotel clerk.

"No message yet, sir," said that individual. "If any comes in I will call you."

Dick was about to turn away, when the telephone bell rang. He waited while the clerk listened for a moment.

"Yes, he's here now," he heard the clerk say.