We remained standing while we thought over the matter. There was a satisfied air about the detective that I could not quite fathom, and Dr. Moore seemed to be quite pleased also.
"Well, what is it?" I asked.
With a voice that betrayed traces of elation, Oakes answered me: "The man in the cellar wore this robe; if he thumbed this paper, the murder of Smith interested him. The murder of Mark was similar, and I believe our Mansion affair is going to involve us in a peck of unexpected trouble. The clues are showing now, and we must know more about the Smith murder, as well as the Mark affair."
"Yes," put in Moore, "and all about the suspected motives in the Smith affair."
Oakes smiled. "Don't be too previous, my boy. If Hallen looks for our help, well and good. Otherwise, remember, I have given my word not to interfere with his search at present. Meanwhile, we must get into town and look around."
"You must remain here," said Moore. "You cannot go out until that wound begins to heal—in a day or so."
"That is so," said Oakes. "But perhaps Stone can find out what is going on."
So it was arranged that I should call on Chief Hallen that evening and spend a few hours in Mona.