At the police station Leonard explained the situation in a few words. Two men were detailed to go with them and investigate. All climbed into the machine, and in a few moments were back before Briggs’ home.
Leonard and the two girls approached the door with the two policemen. One of the officers rapped loudly upon the door with his club. There was no answer, and the policeman rapped again. Still there was no answer.
“Open up, Briggs, or we shall break the door down,” called one of the officers.
Again no answer.
“Kick her in, Bill,” said the first officer.
He suited the action to the word, and there was a resounding crash as his boot struck the door a hard blow. The second officer also delivered several heavy kicks.
There was the sound of splintering wood, and in a few moments the door gave way, shattered. The officers rushed in with poised clubs, and Leonard and the two girls followed them closely.
Straight through the house they went, but their quest was vain. There was no one there.
Leonard, glancing up, spied what appeared to be an attic.
“Give me a hand up,” he called to one of the two policemen.