“I’m telling a straight story.”
Hare locked the door and put the key in his pocket. Then he began a search for the burglar’s plunder. Almost all Bull’s earthly possessions were contained in a cedar box.
Frank ransacked this without finding that of which he was in search. He turned everything in the room upside down. It began to appear that Blair had for once been truthful.
“You will find no diamonds or jewelry here,” said the latter.
“In whose keeping is the swag?” asked the detective.
“I have no diamonds here or anywhere else,” replied Bull.
“I know that you have at least the one I spoke of.”
“Frank, I was only joking when I spoke to you of having diamonds for sale.”
“Were you also joking a moment ago when you said the jewels were in the keeping of a friend?”
“Of course. Do you suppose I’d trust any of my acquaintances with articles of value?” remarked Bull.