No one moved.
"It isn't right to arrest this boy," Penny declared. "He was trying to go straight and he ought to have a chance."
"He'll get it too!" Mr. Nichols added. "With you as a witness in his favor, Penny, I'm confident he'll be released."
Brunner, Molberg and other members of the captured gang were loaded into police cars and taken back to Belton City. Although technically under custody, Jimmie Davis rode with Mr. Nichols and was not handcuffed.
Betty and her father took Penny home since Mr. Nichols found it necessary to go to the police station.
"I can't thank you enough for all you've done," Betty said gratefully as Penny alighted at her own doorstep. "If Jimmie does go free, it will be entirely through your efforts and your father's."
"I think everything will come out right," Penny told her encouragingly. "If there's any news I'll let you know the first thing in the morning."
As the car drove away, Mrs. Gallup rushed out of the house to embrace the girl.
"Penny, what has happened?" she cried. "Your clothes are dirty and mussed. You're a sight!"
"I don't doubt it," Penny laughed. "I've had a wild night."