At all events, recalling the obstruction of the chained ties, Ralph and Zeph had gone to the spot.
“That obstruction,” explained Ralph, “had certainly been placed before the theft of the pay car, anticipatory of what was planned to happen.”
“Yes, it looks that way,” nodded Adair thoughtfully.
“The car must have run on strong gravity to the bumper, and went over the edge of the roadway at that point. She struck down over one hundred feet, breaking through the tops of trees. The snow later covered all traces of the descent. You will find the car lying near an old abandoned quarry house, a mere heap of kindling.”
“And the safes and the money parrels?”
“Not a trace. However, Mr. Adair, it is no easy way to get out of the ravine with those stout heavy bank safes, and I advise that a guard be left in the vicinity.”
“You have solved the mystery of the pay car, Fairbanks,” said the road officer in a gratified tone--“now to find out what has become of the plunder.”
“You will remain here, Mr. Adair?” inquired Ralph.
“Until I have made a thorough investigation and placed my men, certainly,” responded the detective.
“I wish to put in a few hours at a side line investigation, if you please, and may not see you again until tomorrow, and I wish to take Dallas with me.”