Supper over, the boys decided to walk to the postoffice and interview the postmaster, whose name they found out was Denton. They also ascertained that he had held this position for nearly twenty years.
The postoffice was located in the general store, where they had often purchased provisions while on the trail of the smugglers. Denton was soon found, and the boys proceeded to recall themselves to him. He greeted them warmly and asked if they were on another camping trip. This last was accompanied by a sly wink, for naturally he had heard of the part they had played in running down Lafe Green and his gang. He showed no surprise when the boys asked if they could hold a private conversation with him.
Denton led the way back to a little cubby hole of an office, furnished only with a desk and a fair-sized safe. In this, the boys judged, he kept stamps and the records of the postoffice, as well as what money he took in during the day’s trading at the store.
Garry briefly explained what their purpose in coming back to Hobart was, and exhibited the letter sent by the Chief Ranger as authority for their statements.
Denton glanced at the letter and then leaned back in his chair.
“Well, I’ll tell you all there is to tell. I suppose you’ve seen the letters that contained the threats, and if you can figure out who sent them, it’s more than I can do. Just probably a case of spite against ’em, and will doubtless blow over. I’ve always held to the opinion that barking dogs never bite.”
“Seems to me that the dog bit this time,” remarked Garry dryly.
“How so?”
“Why, the setting afire of the house last night.”
“Oh, that. Well, there may be other reasons. Mr. Everett has a whole lot of enemies. He’s pretty freespoken with his tongue. ’Course he’s generally right in what he says, but there’s nothing that hurts like the truth in some cases. All that’s a matter for the sheriff to help out with. On the big matter we can’t do anything till the postoffice inspector gets here. I’m expecting he’ll arrive some time tomorrow, next day at the latest,” said Denton.