He was soon ringing the bell of the house in Twenty-Seventh Street.
Mr. Vanderpool was at home, the servant told him, and he was ushered immediately into his presence.
The old gentleman, who had been writing, laid aside his pen, and, looking up, recognized Rufus.
"You're the boy that came to tell me about my property being stolen, are you not?" he asked.
"Yes, sir; but it's found."
"Bless my soul, you don't say so! Did the thief give it up?"
"No," said Rufus. "I took it from him."
"Is it possible? Why, you're only a boy," said Mr. Vanderpool, regarding him with interest.
"Boys can do something as well as men," said Rufus, with pardonable pride.
"Tell me all about it."