Silas Bradford's Boy by Joseph C. Lincoln

There were other papers and letters in the secret compartment of the writing desk, but it was not until the following day that Banks and his uncle went through them together. By that time Abijah was more like himself, more composed and in a condition to think more clearly. They found nothing further of importance. The copy of the agreement between the partners--Silas Bradford's copy which his brother was certain he must have had and kept for his own protection--was not there, nor had Margaret ever seen it.

-"He might have had it in his pocket or somewheres, " suggested the captain, "and 'twas lost when the ship burned. It don't seem likely he would, but he might. Anyhow, it doesn't make any difference. We've seen one copy of the cussed thing and the Lord knows that's enough! Nobody else must ever see that. They shan't, if I can help it."