Five times he repeated the message, and then they turned on the receiver and sat breathlessly awaiting a possible answer.
It was not long in coming, and this time static was almost eliminated.
“I’m here with bells on, Phil,” said the voice, “and ready to pour into your shell-like ears the sad story of my life.”
“Sounds like Steve,” chuckled Dick. “Can’t you see the old freckled-faced, red-haired sinner sitting at the sending set with a grin spreading from ear to ear?”
“Now listen, Phil, and the rest of you yaps, for I suppose Dick and Tom are with you as usual,” the voice went on. “I’ve got something to tell you about that fellow Muggs Murray that you’ve been broadcasting about, and who seems to have stirred up quite a bit of excitement in your young mind. At least, I think I have, if he’s the same fellow I had a little mixup with lately. I didn’t know a thing about this robbery until I caught your broadcast tonight. Down in this neck of the woods we don’t see much but the local papers, and they didn’t carry the story. Too far off, I suppose. What news we get is mostly about the ructions the Mexicans are stirring up, and take it from me that’s plenty. Those fellows are sure keeping our hands full.
“Now I tell you what let’s do. You go ahead and tell me the full story of the robbery. What you sent out tonight was only an outline, and I’m rather hazy about the details. Be sure to give me the last bit you know about the man’s appearance. I’ve had a pretty good slant at the fellow I have in mind, and I’ll see if the description tallies. I’m going to stop now and listen to your dulcet voice and then I’ll horn in again.”
The voice stopped, much to the chagrin of the listeners, who were keyed up to a high pitch of impatience.
“Hurry, Phil, and give him the dope,” urged Dick. “I’m just crazy to get him started again.”
“The old rascal is just keeping us on the anxious seat on purpose,” grumbled Tom. “He knows he has a good story and he wants to get our goat by keeping us waiting.”
Phil needed no urging and he was soon giving the details for which Steve had asked. He went into all the particulars he remembered about the bandit leader’s height, dress and appearance, dwelling particularly on the scar. His companions put in a reminder here and there; and by the time he had finished the description was as complete as anyone could want.