“No—I can’t—now,” answered Bart, a bit shortly. “Come on, fellows,” he called to Ned, Frank and Fenn. They followed him, wondering at his haste. Bart was making his way rapidly to the door. Once outside he gazed up and down the street. It was deserted, and lay cold and silent under the moon.
“He’s gone!” exclaimed Bart, in disappointed tones.
“Who?” inquired Ned.
“That man—the man I shot against.”
“Well, what difference does that make? Did you want another contest? You beat him.”
“I know it,” spoke Bart quietly. “But do you know who he was?”
“No,” answered Frank and Fenn together.
“He was the man we saw getting into the school the night Mrs. Long’s diamond bracelet was taken!” answered Bart. “That’s the man who can prove that we are innocent—that’s the thief! Come on, let’s see if we can catch him!” and Bart started off on a run.