“It is a bad business about Mr. Elkton. I am very sorry that he was thrown into prison,” said Mr. Leonard.
“He brought it all on himself by his obstinacy,” said the detective. “I cannot understand now why he refused to explain his possession of that silk.”
“He did it to screen his friend,” replied Mr. Leonard. “It seems that this Jesse Powers saved his life once, and he would not inform on him. He sent a message to him to come to the prison, hoping to get an explanation of the matter, but Powers would not come.”
“There is some gratitude left in the world then,” said the officer. “Elkton must be released at once, and an explanation of his conduct published to put him right with the public.”
“But how about these silks?” said the elder man. “They have not yet been sold. They must be in some hiding-place of the burglars.”
“And Joe and me know just where to put our hands on it,” said Will. “Come up here, Joe, and tell the gentlemen what you seen.”
Joe, thus requested, began a long, rambling description of how Will had come to him in the square. He detailed their talk, and went with great prolixity through the whole story, till the time they discovered the burglars in council. Will helped him with suggestions here and there, and managed to dovetail his own story into that of his associate.
“This is a mighty important business,” cried Mr. Fitler, starting up. “You boys are worth your weight in gold. We must investigate this house at once. Can you point it out?”
“Yes, with my eyes shut.”
“Take a squad, Mr. Fitler, and go down and make a thorough search of the place,” said the alderman, rapidly writing. “Here is your warrant.”