"I do not blame you for feeling as you do, Mr. Battick," said Hiram cautiously, "even although I think you have jumped to a wrong conclusion. But I am sure trying to shoot your neighbors, good or bad, will not help you. I have an idea I'd like to talk over with you and will do so the next time I am down this way. But it is time we were all in bed now."
He and Orrin started back for Sunnyside. The latter asked Hiram:
"Where do you suppose that Ad Banks did go, Strong?"
"I haven't the least idea."
"Do you really think he had nothing to do with that fire?"
"At least, Battick can show no proof. Suspicion only, breeds trouble. I am inclined to blame the field mouse instead."
"Humph! Well, maybe," grumbled Orrin Post.
"At any rate it will do no good to spread abroad any suspicions you may feel about it."
"We-ell."
"Promise me you will not speak of Banks in connection with the fire."