“To what do I owe the pleasure of this visit, Miss Wagner? Have you decided you’re ready to sell the Gazette?” “You might as well stop asking that question. I’m here on a totally different matter. I don’t want to waste your time, so I’ll come straight to the point.” She lifted her chin, wishing she could steady the racing beat of her heart. “My father suspected your company was involved in more than just land speculation. As you well know, he voiced his concerns in his articles, but he refused to put any specific accusations into print until he could present all the facts to his readers. Unfortunately, his investigation was cut short when he died.” Merrick nodded but otherwise didn’t respond. “You managed to cover your tracks quite well for a time,” she went on. “But unsavory schemes can’t be hidden forever. The truth will always come out in the end. And it has come out now.” She studied him closely, praying her impulsive idea would play out the way she hoped.
