"Why, of course. I never interrupt anybody. Go on, but don't take too much time, for my time is limited."
"I came from Mrs. Stanhope's cottage, man broke in there last night—"
"Ha, a burglary! Why didn't they let us know at once? Or perhaps you have collared the villain already?"
"No, we haven't got him, although my brother and I tried to catch him."
"Pooh! Two boys, and tried to catch a burglar! Of course he got away."
Dick felt disgusted, and arose to make his departure.
"If you won't listen to what I have to report, I'll take myself off," he said half angrily.
At this Chief Burger stared at him in astonishment.
"Really, you are a remarkable boy," he gasped. "Ain't I listening to everything you are saying?"
"Hardly. I wish to tell you everything from the beginning."