"Yes," returned the detective. "It's a most villainous affair."
"One of the worst."
"I was never so shocked," said Nell. "Do you imagine the robbers will be captured, Mr. Elliston?"
"Certainly, if your brother takes the trail, although I hope he will not."
"Why do you hope so?" questioned Dyke.
"My dear boy, it's dangerous—-"
A low laugh cut short the further speech of Mr. Elliston.
"I supposed you knew me too well, Harper, to imagine that danger ever deterred Dyke Darrel from doing his duty."
"Of course; but this is a different case. 'Tis said that four men were engaged in the foul work, and that they belong to a league of desperate ruffians, as hard to deal with as ever the James and Younger brothers. Better leave it to the Chicago and St. Louis force, Dyke. I should hate to see you made the victim of these scoundrels."
Mr. Elliston laid his hand on the detective's arm in a friendly way, and seemed deeply anxious.