“I believe you are too square and friendly to betray that secret.”
“Try me, and see!” cried Zeph with ardor.
“Well,” said Ralph, “there was a silk robbery of the Dover night freight last week, the train I am fireman on. From what you have told me, I feel sure that the thieves hired their rig from Ames. That package you had was part of the stolen plunder. I am acting for the road detective of the Great Northern, and I must locate those robbers.”
“Then,” cried Zeph delightedly, “I am helping you do detective work.” 48
“Yes, Zeph, genuine detective work.”
“Oh! how I wish I had my disguises here!”
“You are of more use to me as you are, because the thieves know you worked for Ames, and they seem to trust him.”
“That’s so,” said Zeph thoughtfully. “What you going to do?”
“I want to locate the thieves,” responded Ralph. “You must know the district about here pretty well. Can’t you think of any spot where they would be likely to hide?”
“None in particular. But I know every foot of the woods, swamps and creek. If the men you are looking for are anywhere in the neighborhood, I am sure we will find a trace of them.”