Dick hung his head sheepishly.
“Yes, I remember,” he said.
“And how is it,” demanded Shirley, “that I find you mixed up in this affair? How do you happen to be on such friendly terms with that scoundrel Jones?”
“Well, it’s a long story,” returned Dick in some confusion.
“I didn’t think it of you, Dick,” said Shirley. “You proved such a valiant champion, that I believed I should always find you fighting on the side of the right.”
“And so you shall,” responded Dick, lifting his head, “if you have further need of me. I didn’t really know who Jones was when I got mixed up with him. And had I known he was plotting against you I would have had nothing to do with the affair. I am ready to help you, if you can make use of me.”
“I knew I couldn’t be wrong,” said the girl with a bright smile, “and I am glad to have you on our side. Perhaps you can tell me why Jones has kidnapped Jimmy?”
“He is planning to keep him from riding in the Derby. He says that without Jimmy, Gabriel cannot possibly win.”
“I see,” said Shirley. “It’s just as I thought. And where is he taking him now?”
“I do not know,” was the reply. “He has some safe place in view, though.”