"I'm not," said Betty, with a shrug of her pretty shoulders. "I rather like them."
"Had one on trial?" teased the boy.
"No, on probation," braved Betty.
"Then," said the officer, aside to Mr. Rand, "we shall raid the place!"
"Exactly, exactly! There may be more girls under the stoop or up the chimney. That place should not be allowed to stand."
"It was a great find," admitted the officer, "but I never would have been able to do anything if the young ladies had not recognized the voice. That place has been there for years. The Bradly house would have got past any of us."
"Yes, the girls helped," said Mr. Rand proudly. "I have a great regard for girls."
"You say silver was stolen from the seashore cottage? Likely it is in that place."
"Haven't the slightest doubt of it, and more, too, I'll wager. Now, boys"—to the officers—"you have done a good night's work. We're a happy family, and I don't want to keep you longer from yours." So, with promises to soon overhaul the old Bradly house, the men of the law departed.
"But why did you sing, Cora? How could you?" asked Ed.