Holmes planned to construct a hotel for visitors to the fair. Holmes still managed to evade his creditors. Myrta’s great uncle, Jonathan Belknap, visited Holmes and Myrta’s Wilmette house. He did not like Holmes but still agreed to loan him $2,500 for the construction of a new house for the couple. Holmes forged Belknap’s signature and paid himself the same amount again. Holmes offered Belknap a tour of his properties, which Belknap wisely refused. Finally, Belknap gave in and agreed to stay the night at Holmes’ hotel. During the night, he heard someone try the lock: Patrick Quinlan, the caretaker, tried to insist on entering. Soon after this, the forgery was discovered. Holmes hired a specialist to install a bespoke kiln, similar to a crematory, in the building. Holmes grew distant from his wife again but sent her money. The young women that Holmes hired as clerks frequently disappeared. Soon afterward, he met a family who fitted the mold he had initially outlined in his insurance fraud scheme.

The Eastern band of architects arrived in Chicago on January 9th, 1891. After a discouraging visit to the desolate Jackson Park, Root attempted to reignite their morale, and the men discussed the fair over a lavish dinner.