"This is matter of the gravest moment, and only to be discussed in the future, my dear child," he said.

"Gentlemen, we will suspend all our labors until we have had ample time for reflection.

We may find the murderer hiding under the shadow of this useless fortune.

For I believe poor Clayton left no heir.

Even gold can be useless at the last." Witherspoon's temples were throbbing as Doctor Atwater hurried him away to his home.