The young federal agent’s denial was quick and confident.
“I didn’t know a thing about the story until I read it at breakfast this morning,” he said.
“This seems to be a pretty accurate account of what actually took place in the roundup of the gang responsible for the theft of the radio secrets,” said the federal chief. “The information could have been supplied only by someone in our own department and you know there is a rule against giving out such information.”
“I know there is such a rule,” said Bob, “and I can assure you that I have talked to no one.”
Bob’s straightforward words seemed to satisfy the federal chief and he shifted his gaze to Tully, who was standing uneasily on first one foot and then the other.
“What have you to say for yourself, Tully?”
The question was short and pointed and Bob saw Tully’s eyes shift away from those of Waldo Edgar.
“I guess I’m to blame for the story,” confessed Tully. “You see it was this way—”
But Tully’s explanation was cut short.
“I’m not interested in how you happened to talk,” said the federal chief. “However, I am glad that you have admitted your indiscretion so readily. In the future be sure to keep this rule in mind. It is your job to solve the cases assigned to you and to keep out of the headlines and off the front pages of the newspapers. The less publicity we have the more effective can be our work.”