"I should say," spoke up another voice, "that there was a detective needed around there, too."
"Nothing shall be lacking that is needed," I retorted, over my shoulder, and then ascended the stairs, wishing heartily, as I entered my room, that Trafton and a large majority of its inhabitants were safely buried under an Alpine avalanche.
Two hours later I awoke, and being in a more amiable mood, felt less inclined to consign all Trafton to annihilation.
Going below I found the office comparatively quiet, and Dimber Joe and the new operator socially conversing on the porch.
Gerald's presence was a relief to me. I felt sure that he would keep a sharp eye upon the movements of Dimber, and, being anxious about the situation of Bethel I returned to the cottage.
Dr. Hess stood in the doorway, in conversation with Mr. Harris.
"How is the patient?" asked I, approaching them.
"Much the same," replied the doctor. "But there will be a change soon."
"Has he spoken?"