[CHAPTER II.]
A PLUCKY CHASE.
As Van Vincent's startling words rang out a low murmur of surprise came from the assemblage.
Not one offered to make a move until the lawyer stepped quickly forward, and seizing the boy by the shoulder, pulled him away from John Moreland, whose face had turned the color of ashes.
Van pushed the lawyer away from him rather roughly.
"I registered a vow to hunt the murderer down," said he in the same clear voice, "but did not expect to find him so quick. There he stands before us all. What have you to say against the charge, Doc Clancy?"
The boy had no sooner uttered the name of Doc Clancy than, quick as a flash, John Moreland rushed from the room.
His action was so sudden no one could intercept him.
"That proves his guilt," cried Van, now in a high pitch of excitement. "I am going after him, and will not return until I have caught him and brought him to justice!"