"I never saw the boy before in the whole course of my life," said Lane, boldly. "He seems to be a confederate of the boy who robbed me."
"You can tell your story at the police station," said the policeman to Scott. "You, sir, can go with me and prefer a charge."
"I am in a great hurry," replied Lane, taking out his watch. "I will call at the police station in an hour. Now I have an important engagement."
"You will have to come now," said the officer, beginning to be suspicious.
"Oh, well, if it is necessary," said Lane, determined to brazen it out.
Scott was considerably taken aback at the unexpected turn which matters had taken, and felt some anxiety.
"Will you come with me?" he said, addressing John Schickling.
"You bet I will," responded John, briskly. "I ain't goin' back on a friend. I'll tell you what I know about this man."
"You'd better clear out," said Lane, "if you know what is best for you, or you'll find yourself in hot water, too."
"I'll take the risk," rejoined John, not at all alarmed.