“The burglars?” queried Bangs, with a malicious smile. “No, madam; not yet.”
Then he went on to describe the premises visited by Phelim O’Rourke and his confederates, and the valuables they had carried off. He seemed to take pleasure in enlarging upon the ease with which they had effected an entrance, and the fact that they were men evidently accomplished in the art of housebreaking and lock-picking.
Charlton made a movement to go; but an entreating look and word from Ronald led him to resume his seat, and he outstayed the colonel.
When the latter had gone, “What has he against Barney Nolan?” asked the old lady.
“Barney belonged to his regiment,” replied Ronald, “and had to submit to many an act of outrageous tyranny from him.”
“That would account for Barney’s disliking him,” she said, doubtfully.
“And for his dislike to Barney,” added Charlton. “A man hates those he oppresses. Besides, it is quite likely the Irishman has retorted with his tongue, if in no other way, as who would not?”
CHAPTER IV.
The robbery at Walnut Hill caused a good deal of excitement in Prairieville and for miles up and down Wild River Valley, but no clew to the perpetrators could be discovered.