He was surprised, but it was evident that he was pleased, also, and he took the little hand respectfully in his own ample palm, and pressed it in a friendly manner.
“There’s one thing more I want you to believe, Miss Linden,” he said, “and that is, that I am your friend, also.”
“Thank you, Mr. Bolton. And now let us all work together to find Dodger.”
“You can count on me, Miss Linden. If you’ll tell me where you live I’ll send or bring you any news I may hear.”
“I live with Mrs. O’Keefe, my good friend, here.”
“I haven’t my kyard with me, Tim,” said the apple-woman, “but I’ll give you my strate and number. You know my place of business?”
“Yes.”
“If you come to me there I’ll let Florence know whatever you tell me. She is not always at home.”
The two went away relieved in mind, for, helpless and bewildered as they were, they felt that Tim Bolton would make a valuable ally.
When they had gone Tim turned to Hooker and Briggs, who were lounging at a table, waiting for some generous customer to invite them to the bar.