“Where did you say you found these, young man?” The gentleman eyed him sternly, and Billy's old spirit flamed up:
“I didn't say,” said Billy.
“But you know we've got to have all the evidence before we can give the reward—!”
“Aw, cut it out! I don't want no reward. Wouldn't take it if you give it to me! I just wantta get home. Say, you gotta telephone?”
“Why certainly.” This was the most astonishing burglar!
“Well, where is't? Lemme call long distance on it? I ain't got the tin now, but I'll pay ya when I git back home!”
“Why, the idea! Take him to the telephone Morris. Right there! This one—!”
But Billy had sighted one on a mahogany desk near at hand and he toppled to the edge of the chair that stood before it. He took down the receiver in a shaky hand, calling Long Distance.
“This Long Distance? Well, gimme Economy 13.”
The Shaftons for the instant were busy looking over the papers, identifying each jewel, wondering if any were missing. They did not notice Billy till a gruff young voice rang out with a pathetic tremble in it: “That you Chief? This is Billy. Say, c'n I bother you to phone to Miss Severn an' ast her to tell m'yant I'm aw'wright? Yes, tell her I'll be home soon now, an' I'll explain. And Chief, I'm mighty sorry those two guys got away, but I couldn't help it. We'll get 'em yet. Hope you didn't wait long. Tell you more when I see ya, S'long—!”