"I have only one regret,"
he added, "Randolph seems to be grieved over it. He liked me better
in my old suit. Besides, I have a new watch, and it turns out to be
better than his."
Here he displayed his new silver watch. Linton felt a generous
pleasure in Luke's luck, and it may truly be said rejoiced more
at it than he would at any piece of good fortune to himself.
"By the way, Luke," he said, "I am going to give a party next
Thursday evening, and I give you the very first invitation. It is
my birthday, you know."
"I accept with pleasure, sir. I look upon you as my warmest friend,
and as long as I retain your friendship I shall not care for
Randolph's malice."
CHAPTER XVIII
MR. DUNCAN'S SECRET
About two weeks later, Prince Duncan sat at his desk with a troubled
look. Open before him were letters. One was post-marked London, and
ran as follows:
"MY DEAR SIR: I have decided to shorten my visit, and shall leave
Liverpool next Saturday en route for New York. You will see,
therefore, that I shall arrive nearly as soon as the letter I am
now writing. I have decided to withdraw the box of securities I
deposited in your bank, and shall place it in a safe-deposit vault
in New York. You may expect to see me shortly.
"Yours in haste,
"JOHN ARMSTRONG."
Drops of perspiration gathered on the brow of Prince Duncan as he
read this letter. What would Mr. Armstrong say when he learned that
the box had mysteriously disappeared? That he would be thoroughly
indignant, and make it very unpleasant for the president of
Groveton Bank, was certain.
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