"What's the trouble?" he demanded, and it was plain to see that he did not relish having his early morning sleep broken.
"Widow Canby's house was robbed last night," replied the constable; and he gave the particulars.
Judge Penfold was all ears at once. Indeed, it may be as well to state that he was a widower and had paid Widow Canby much attention, which, however, I well knew that good lady heartily resented. No doubt he thought if he could render her any assistance it would help along his suit.
"We must catch the fellow at once," he said. "Parsons, you must catch him without fail."
"Easier said than done, judge," replied the constable, doubtfully. "Where am I to look for him? The country around here is pretty large."
"No matter. You are constable, and it is your duty to seek him out. I will sign the warrant for his arrest, and you must have him in jail by to-night, without fail."
"I'll do what I can, judge," returns Parsons, meekly.
"Strong, I'll have to bind you over as a witness."
"Bind me over?" I queried in perplexity. "What do you mean?"
"Hold you, unless you can give a bond to appear when wanted."