“He must have heard Mr. Moyer inquiring about him,” declared Penny. “Obviously he ran away to avoid the interview.”
“Then that means he’s guilty.”
“I’m afraid so, Mrs. Weems. What do you suppose he did to have a government man after him?”
“He may have been a gangster.”
“Anchor Joe?” asked Penny, smiling. “He hardly looked the type.”
“In any event, we’re fortunate to be rid of him.”
“I wish we could have questioned him,” Penny said gloomily. “Now I may never learn about that octopus tattoo.”
“You and your tattoo!” scoffed Mrs. Weems, beginning to strip linen from the bed. “Anchor Joe certainly deceived me. He seemed such a pleasant sort and I was sorry for him.”
“I still am,” said Penny. “The poor fellow is in no condition to be wandering around. I rather hope Mr. Moyer overtakes him soon. Then at least he’ll get the medical attention he requires.”
While Mrs. Weems straightened the bedroom, she wandered to the river’s edge. Only a few stars were pricking the sky, and it was impossible to see very far. There was no sign either of Mr. Moyer or the man he pursued.