“Yes, although I did not learn that until a day or so ago. Otto has been trying to get his tattoo removed so that it would be harder to trace him. The four sailors had their backs marked with an octopus design and words which read, All for one, one for all, when put together. They were feeling very friendly toward each other at that time.”
“Then I was right!” exclaimed Penny. “And the four conspired to steal the gold bars?”
“Otto was entrusted by his pals to dispose of the stolen gold. Instead, he gave them the slip and tried to keep it for himself. Evidently he rigged up a furnace and melted the metal into useable form. But the three sailors trailed him here, determined to avenge themselves.”
As Fenestra was hustled to a waiting car, Penny told Mr. Moyer everything she knew about the prisoner, save his connection with Matthew Judson. Deliberately she withheld information about the blackmail plot.
While the prisoner was being loaded into the government car, another automobile drew up nearby. Recognizing Mr. Parker at the wheel, Penny and Jerry ran to tell him the latest news.
“Full speed ahead, Chief!” exclaimed the reporter, sliding into the front seat. “We’ve got a big story by the tail!”
“A lot of good it does us,” responded the publisher gloomily.
“You mean the firemen failed to save the Star building?” Penny asked anxiously.
“The building’s saved, but considerable damage was done by fire and water. We can’t use the plant for several days. It’s enough to make a man ill! Scooped by the opposition when the story is ours!”
“You forget the little Weekly Times,” reminded Penny. “Old Homey has everything ready to roll. I’m turning the plant over to you.”