CHAPTER XXIV.
_Sommers returns to Bridgeport._--_An Interview with Mr.
Bollman._--_Sommers allays the Suspicions of Bucholz's Attorney, and engages him as his own Counsel._ The cold, bleak winds of March had yielded to the warm and invigorating showers of April, and these had brought forth the bright flowers and fragrant grasses that grew and blossomed on this beautiful May morning, when Edward Sommers left the confining walls of the prison at Bridgeport.

More than two months had elapsed since he entered its frowning portals to commence the isolated life of a prisoner, and a sigh of grateful relief escaped him as he gazed around upon the brightness and beauty of the scene that was spread before him.
There was but little time given him for indulgence in these soothing and agreeable reveries.

There was work for him to do, and he must summon up all his energies for the task before him.

His release had been accomplished, and the promised revelation of Bucholz would be made to him in a few days, but he must visit those who had an interest in his welfare, and to whom he was responsible for his actions.

He would also be enabled during the few days of rest to strengthen his shattered nerves and prepare himself for the important duties which would soon devolve upon him.