“We have one of the kidnappers, at least,” he said with satisfaction. “Ah, there is some one at the bridge,” he added, as he ran down the main tracks.
Signals of danger were set on both sides of the creek, and Ralph could make out men in the distance moving about. He was soon on the scene. 92
A track-walker had discovered the burning bridge and had summoned assistance.
There was only one thing to do with the locomotive, to run on to Dover, and this Ralph did at once. He reported the occurrences of the evening to the assistant superintendent, whom he found getting a wrecking crew together.
“Well, this is a serious and amazing piece of business,” commented that official. “Here, men,” he called to his assistants on the wrecking car, “fetch this fellow into the shanty yonder.”
The man Ralph had knocked down in the locomotive cab had recovered consciousness. He was brought into the shanty and questioned, but was sullen and silent.
“Won’t tell anything, eh?” said the assistant superintendent.
“The letter says all there is to say,” remarked the captive coolly, “but that twenty thousand dollars will never find young Trevor if you keep me a prisoner.”
“A prisoner safe and tight you shall be,” declared the railroad official with determination. “Take him to the town jail, men,” he added. “I must wire for the president of the road at once, and to Adair at Stanley Junction. What’s your plan, Fairbanks?” he asked of Ralph. 93
“I hardly know,” responded the young fireman. “I don’t see that I can be of any assistance here.”