"Of course. Any clew discovered?"
"None."
"I believe the villains covered their tracks well," said Dyke Darrel. "The express messenger who was murdered was a personal friend."
"Your friend?"
"Yes; one I had known for years, which explains my interest in the case. I suppose I have your good wishes in hunting down the outlaws?"
"Well, of course; but it is a task that may tax the coolness and ingenuity of skilled detectives. Amateurs have no place on this case, I assure you."
"Admitted," returned the young detective, with a smile. "You have heard of Dyke Darrel?"
"I should think I had. He is the best detective in the West, now that Pinkerton is gone; he was a trusted friend of Allan Pinkerton, too."
"He was."
"I've telegraphed for our people to see about employing Dyke Darrel. I shan't be content without."