XXXII.
"What is your theory, Fred?" asked Dr. Dutton, with interest.
"I think I may as well take you all into my confidence," answered our hero.
"And why not?" replied the doctor.
"Of course you will, Fred," said Nellie.
"Yes, I think you can help me in working up the case."
"We will surely do all we can," said Dr. Dutton. "But what is the nature of your suspicion?"
"It is so grave a matter I hate to breathe it to any one till I have further proof, therefore I must ask you all to keep it strictly confidential."
"It shall be treated as such," replied Dr. Dutton.