“That is pretty conclusive.  Can you explain how the ticket was put in your pocket?”

“No, sir; that puzzles me.”

“It could easily be done, no doubt.  Now, do you want to return to my employ?”

“No, sir, I think not.  I am in a real estate office, and I think there is more chance for me to rise.”

“How did you obtain the position?”

“Through Mrs. Mason, of West Fifty-sixth Street.  She has been a very good friend to me.  The gentleman who employs me is her brother.”

“I shall be sorry to lose you, Andy, but I wish you to consult your own interest.  As to John Crandall, I shall discharge him at once.  I will not permit him to profit by the conspiracy against you.  Can you stay this evening?”

“No, sir.  I am helping Mrs. Mason’s son, Roy, in his Latin lessons.  For this I am paid five dollars per week.”

“You seem to be very well provided for, I must say.”

“Yes, sir, I have been fortunate.”

The next day Mr. Flint notified Simon Rich that he was acquainted with the manner in which evidence had been procured against Andy.  Then he turned to the nephew.

“The watch was pawned by you, John,” he said, “under the direction of your uncle.”

“No, sir,” said John.  “If Andy Grant has told you this he has told a lie.”

“The matter is easily settled.  Come around with me to the pawnbroker’s.”

John stammered and finally confessed.

“Of course I cannot retain your services after this.  You, Mr. Rich, may remain till the end of the month.  I shall then feel obliged to make a change.”

Never were two conspirators more quickly punished.  Simon Rich repented bitterly yielding to the temptation to injure Andy.  His malice had recoiled upon himself.

CHAPTER XXIV.

ANDY MAKES AN INVESTMENT.

Andy wrote to his friend, Walter Gale, who, it will be remembered, was watching in Pennsylvania by the bedside of his uncle, giving him an account of his change of business.  He received the following reply: 

“I felt indignant when I read your news of the conspiracy of Simon Rich, but was pleased that it led to your advantage.  I am inclined to think that you will find your new business a better one than the jewelry trade.  The latter, if you went in for yourself, would call for a large capital.  In the real estate business capital is not so much needed as good judgment and a large lot of acquaintances.  I am not personally acquainted with Mr. Crawford, but know him by reputation as an energetic and honorable business man.  If you do not find your income adequate, all you have to do is to apply to me.  I will send you fifty dollars or more at any time.

“Now, as to the prospects of my return, they are remote.  My uncle seems cheered by my presence, and his health has improved.  He