"It is evident," thought John Armstrong, "that Mr. Duncan is interested in diverting suspicion from some quarter. He is willing that these men should incur suspicion, though it is clear he has none in his own mind."
"Well, what else have you done? Have you employed detectives?" asked Armstrong, impatiently.
"I was about to do so," answered Mr. Duncan, in some embarrassment, "when I heard that you were coming home, and I thought I would defer that matter for your consideration."
"Giving time in the meanwhile for the thief or thieves to dispose of their booty? This is very strange conduct, Mr. Duncan."
"I acted for the best," said Prince Duncan.
"You have singular ideas of what is best, then," observed Mr. Armstrong coldly. "It may be too late to remedy your singular neglect, but I will now take the matter out of your hands, and see what I can do."
"Will you employ detectives?" asked Duncan, with evident uneasiness.
Armstrong eyed him sharply, and with growing suspicion.
"I can't say what I will do."
"Have you the numbers of the missing bonds?" asked Duncan anxiously.