“Perhaps it was a wild-goose chase,” he said quietly, “but it is possible to catch wild geese sometimes.”
“What do you mean, Tom?” inquired Mr. Armstrong in excitement.
“I mean this, that I’ve recovered the bonds, and here they are!”
And to the astonishment of both merchants, Tom produced the belt and drew out the contents.
“As I live, they are all here!” exclaimed Mr. Armstrong.
“Impossible!” ejaculated Hugh Osborn, arching his brows.
“Quite possible,” said Tom. “Don’t you believe your eyes?”
“What do you say now, Hugh, to the absurdity of employing a boy of sixteen in such a commission? Very foolish, no doubt, but here are the bonds!”
“Did you recover those bonds yourself, young man?” asked Hugh Osborn.
“I rather think I did,” said Tom; “that is, with the help of a highwayman. You see I needed a little assistance.”