Feeney pointed towards the shed-room, as he continued: “We mustn’t let go of that chap, whatever happens, until we knows more.”
“I should say not,” put in Worth, who quickly related what these strangers had done to him. Then Phil briefly described the subsequent proceedings, including their finding the man senseless under the overturned car, and with the pistol wound, finally showing the bullet that had been found in his hair, which had glanced from the skull, as we have described. Feeney looked at the bullet.
“Smith & Wesson pistol sure!” He thought a moment. “I think I saw that pistol when the man that is missing changed some of his things, as I was passing their door. After thinking it all over, I sent Dan and Nan on horseback, soon after you all left, but I didn’t say nothing, for I didn’t really know nothing. We needed more coffee, and that was a good excuse. But I told the kids to be sure and see the operator of the telephone booth and try to find out what was the matter. I reckon we’ll know if they ever get back.”
Mrs. Feeney now appeared in the doorway and excitedly pointed westward.
“Nan and Dan’s a-comin’. I can see ’em out at the kitchen back door. There’s nobody with ’em as I can see.”
Just then Paul came in to say:
“That chap’s come to again. Looks like he’s worrying some. What ought Dave and I to do? He seems to want Dippy, as he calls that mate of his.”
Phil accompanied Paul back, while Worth remained with Pat to wait for the arrival of the girl and boy. Their horses seemed tired, and stood with drooping heads while they dismounted, delivered the coffee to their mother and glanced shyly at Billy as the father explained briefly what had happened.
The children brought news that as soon as a telegram could reach Midlandville, two officers would start at once for Feeney’s place. Might get there some time in the night.
“Well, here’s a pretty to-do!” exclaimed Mrs. Feeney. “How am I goin’ to feed so many strangers? You know, Pat, we’re pretty near out of flour.”