CHAPTER V.LAURA'S REQUEST.
That night after supper Robert McIntyre poured forth all that he had seen to his father and to his sister.

So full was he of the one subject that it was a relief to him to share his knowledge with others.

Rather for his own sake, then, than for theirs he depicted vividly all the marvels which he had seen; the profusion of wealth, the regal treasure-house of gems, the gold, the marble, the extraordinary devices, the absolute lavishness and complete disregard for money which was shown in every detail.

For an hour he pictured with glowing words all the wonders which had been shown him, and ended with some pride by describing the request which Mr.Raffles Haw had made, and the complete confidence which he had placed in him.
His words had a very different effect upon his two listeners.

Old McIntyre leaned back in his chair with a bitter smile upon his lips, his thin face crinkled into a thousand puckers, and his small eyes shining with envy and greed.