“Yes, awaiting his opportunity. He’d learned of the secret. But I’m positive that Dewberry gave him no information at all.”
Thus far Toma, naturally reticent, had taken no part in the conversation. He sat rigid in his chair, eyes wide with interest, nothing escaping him. Suddenly he drawled forth:
“When you want us go over this fellow Frischette’s place?” he asked.
“Tomorrow, if you will,” answered the corporal. “Arrange to stay there for three or four days. Then come back here to meet me.”
“I know this young fellow, Fontaine, you talk about,” Toma informed them. “One time we pretty good friends. We go to school one time at Mission. If he know anything, me pretty sure him tell Toma.”
“Good!” exclaimed Corporal Rand. “I’m glad to hear that, Toma. Your friendship with Fontaine may be the means of solving this mystery. If Frischette is implicated, Fontaine must be aware of it.”
The policeman rose to his feet again.
“Well, I guess you understand what’s to be done. If you’ll excuse me, I’ll hurry away now. I want to see Inspector Cameron for a few minutes before I go on to the Crooked Stick.”
He turned and shook hands with each of the boys in turn.
“Well, good luck to you. I hope you’ll like your new role of police detectives. When you return, you’ll probably find me here awaiting you.”