Part 25 (1/2)
”I know they do,” returned Hal, significantly. ”And they know more than that.”
d.i.c.k Ferris grew almost white at these last words. He seemed about to say something in return, but suddenly changed his mind.
”Carson, this is a serious matter,” said Saunders. ”I hate to say much about it, but the stuff has been found here, and I don't see how I can do otherwise than look to you for that fourteen dollars.”
”Mr. Saunders, I didn't take the things, and I don't know anything about your money.”
”Easy enough to say, but----” and Saunders finished with a shrug of his shoulders.
”Of course, I can't prove what I say, but I can give you my word of honor that I am telling the truth.”
”That's all very well, but it doesn't restore my money, which I can't afford to lose,” replied Saunders, sharply.
Hal looked around in perplexity. What was he to do?
”I can't believe you guilty,” said Mrs. Ricket. ”But if you have the money you had better return it.”
”Of course, he's got the money,” put in Ferris, who had somewhat recovered from the effects of Hal's last words to him.
Hal picked up the newspaper which had been around the box and crumpled it nervously. Suddenly a peculiar look lit up his features.
”I guess I had better send for a policeman,” said Saunders, after a moment of silence.
”Just wait a moment,” said Hal.
”What for?”
”I wish to ask a few questions.”
”Better see that he doesn't escape,” suggested Ferris.
”Let that remark apply to Ferris as well as myself,” said Hal.
Saunders walked to the door, and locked it, putting the key in his pocket.
”When did you miss your things?” asked Hal.
”About an hour ago.”
”At five o'clock?”
”A little before. I got off early to visit my uncle in Nyack. But I can't go without my money.”
”Were you home to dinner?”
”Yes.”
”Did d.i.c.k Ferris come home?”
”No.”