"My name is Christopher Nichols," the detective introduced himself, "and this is my daughter, Penny."
"Pleased to meet you," muttered the man, without looking directly at either of them. He hesitated, and then added: "I'm Walter Crocker."
"The name sounds familiar," commented Mr. Nichols.
"You may be thinking of my uncle, Herman Crocker. He's well known in these parts."
"I don't believe I know him," replied the detective.
"I'm on my way to see him now," said the man. His voice was bitter. "Herman Crocker is a disreputable crook, even if he is my uncle. He's been stealing from me for years, but it's at an end now! I'll force him to give me my inheritance even if I have to tear him limb from limb——"
"I'd not get so excited if I were you," interrupted Mr. Nichols calmly. "You're probably upset because of the accident."
"It did shake me up a bit," replied Crocker, with an abrupt change of tone.
"Just climb in and we'll take you to town with us," Mr. Nichols invited.
Penny started to move over so that the man could sit beside her.