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the stock--twenty-five millions. That would keep you from worrying

about grocery bills."

But I wouldn't need groceries if I had the tablets," said Rob, laughing.

True enough! But you could take life easily and read your newspaper in

comfort, without being in any hurry to get down town to business.

Twenty-five millions would bring you a cozy little income, if properly

invested."

I don't see why one should read newspapers when the Record of Events

shows all that is going on in the world," objected Rob.

True, true! But what do you say to the proposition?"

I must decline, with thanks. These inventions are not for sale."

The gentleman sighed and resumed his magazine, in which he became

much absorbed.

Rob put on the Character Marking Spectacles and looked at him. The

letters "E," "W" and "C" were plainly visible upon the composed,

respectable looking brow of his companion.

Evil, wise and cruel," reflected Rob, as he restored the spectacles to his

pocket. "How easily such a man could impose upon people. To look at

him one would think that butter wouldn't melt in his mouth!"

He decided to part company with this chance acquaintance and, rising

from his seat, strolled leisurely up the walk. A moment later, on looking

back, he discovered that the old gentleman had disappeared.

He walked down State Street to the river and back again, amused by the

activity displayed in this busy section of the city. But the time he had

allowed himself in Chicago had now expired, so he began looking around

for some high building from the roof of which he could depart unnoticed.

This was not at all difficult, and selecting one of many stores he

ascended by an elevator to the top floor and from there mounted an iron

stairway leading to the flat roof. As he climbed this stairway he found

himself followed by a pleasant looking young man, who also seemed

desirous of viewing the city from the roof.

The Master Key