"I wish that was all, Mr. Turner," said Rufus, his face a little pale.
"What has happened?" asked the banker, quickly.
"The box was stolen from me as I was going upstairs to the office of Foster & Nevins."
"How did it happen? Tell me quickly."
"I had only gone up two or three steps when I heard a step behind me. Turning to see who it was, I was struck violently in the face, and fell forward. When I recovered, the man had disappeared, and the box was gone."
"Can I depend upon the absolute truth of this statement, Rufus?" asked Mr. Turner, looking in the boy's face searchingly.
"You can, sir," said Rufus, proudly.
"Can you give any idea of the appearance of the man who attacked you?"
"Yes, sir, I saw him for an instant before the blow was given, and recognized him."
"You recognized him!" repeated the banker, in surprise. "Who is he?"