I have just been notified of the fact by a cable from America." Ferralti sat trembling and regarding the man with silent horror.
"Is this true, sir ?" asked Uncle John, quickly; "or is it only a part of your cursed game ?" "It is quite true, signore, I regret being obliged to break the ill news so abruptly; but this gentleman thought himself too poor to purchase my little bracelet, and it was necessary to inform him that he is suddenly made wealthy--not yet so great a Croesus as yourself, Signor Merreek, but still a very rich man." Ferralti ceased trembling, but the horror still clung to his eyes.
"A railway wreck!" he muttered, hoarsely.

"Where was it, sir?
Tell me, I beseech you! And are you sure my father is dead ?" "Very sure, signore.

My informant is absolutely reliable.

But the details of the wreck I do not know.

I am only informed of the fact of your father's death, and that his will leaves you his entire fortune." Ferralti arose and staggered away to his room, and Uncle John watched him go pityingly, but knew no way to comfort him.