gage on it?" The jewelry manufacturer rubbed his chin reflectively. "What did Mr. Basswood say about it?"
"He said property around here was constantly increasing in value."
"The mortgage is now twelve hundred dollars?"
"Yes, sir, and Aaron Poole offered Mr. Potts only one hundred dollars over that amount. Mr. Jackson said he thought the place ought to be worth two thousand dollars."
"I see." Mr. Wadsworth looked at Dave curiously. "How is it you came about this? Are you a relative of Mrs. Potts?"
"No, sir. I am his bound boy."
"Oh! How long have you lived with him?"
"About six years."
"Has he much of a family?"
"No, sir; he is alone in the world, and he is very old and feeble now."
"I don't believe I know him. What is his first name?"
"Caspar."
Oliver Wadsworth looked up in astonishment.
"Caspar Potts. Why, that was the name of a professor who used to teach me history when I attended Vale College! But of course this farmer cannot be the same man."
"He can be!" cried Dave. "Mr. Potts was
