Among them was a certain black-whiskered individual, who, finding himself too well known in New York, had sought the country, ready for any stroke of business which might offer in his particular line.

Chance led his steps to Melville, where he put up at the village inn.

He began at once to institute inquiries, the answers to which might serve his purpose, and to avert suspicion, casually mentioned that he was a capitalist, and thought of settling down in the town.

As he was well dressed, and had a plausible manner, this statement was not doubted.
Among other things, he made inquiries in regard to the manufactory, what dividends it paid, and when.

Expressing himself desirous of purchasing some stock, he inquired the names of the principal owners of the stock.