“Even traces of your clothing were found and other clews to show that you were burned in that dwelling.”
“That is strange.”
“Yes, it is part of the plot.”
“Plot?”
“Yes, young lady, you are the victim of a villainous plot.”
“I think you are right,” said Evelyn, with conviction. “And I believe my uncle is at the bottom of it. I know he always hated me and he wanted my heritage.”
“Now you have it right,” said Old King Brady. “He tried to hang young Allerton Banks for the supposed crime, but an alibi was proved.”
A cry of horror and indignation escaped the young girl.
“The scoundrel!” she said, intensely. “He always hated Allerton. Oh, sir, who are you? Surely you do not keep this dreadful place?”
“Sh!” said Old King Brady, in a whisper. “We must be careful. No, my dear young lady, we do not. We are New York detectives, of the Secret Service. We are in quest of the villains who were supposed to be your murderers!”