Flash argued until he realized he was talking for his own benefit. Fleur had gone.
Despondently, he sank down into a chair. Never had he been more discouraged. The key to a mystery in his hand and he was powerless to use it! Unless he escaped quickly, Rascomb would vanish and leave no trace.
Flash sat staring at the oaken panel. Suddenly he made a significant observation. The door swung on large ornamental brass hinges which had been fastened on the inside with tiny screws.
He sprang to his feet.
“Maybe I’ll get out of here yet!” he thought exultantly. “Maybe I will!”
CHAPTER XVIII
ESCAPE
Flash searched his pockets for a knife he usually carried. It was missing, as were many other articles which had been lost in his flight from the forest fire.
A desk occupied one corner of the room. Crossing to it, he began searching for an object which might be used to pry off the hinges of the outside door.
Save for a few scattered pins, blank paper and metal clips, the drawers were empty. They all gave evidence of having been hastily cleaned out.
“Just my luck,” grumbled Flash.