This conversation put a powerful weapon in her hand, and if used skilfully she could save her father from trouble and also protect old Hanz.

Indeed, her mind ran back over a train of curious circumstances, which now became clearer and clearer, and when linked together discovered the object they were intended to effect.

There was no mistaking the motive.

Still, like a true and loving daughter, she saw her father only in the light of innocence and truth.

The more she contemplated the matter the more sincerely did she believe him an instrument in the hands of Topman and Gusher, of whose designs she had heard others speak..