Mona inquired of an elderly, respectable policeman, whom she found standing upon a corner, where she should go to find a detective.
He directed her to the headquarters of the force, although he looked surprised at the question coming from such a source, and she repaired thither at once.
As she entered the office, a quiet-looking man, who was the only occupant at that time, arose and came forward, bowing respectfully; but he also appeared astonished to see a young and beautiful girl in such a place.
"I wish to see a detective," said Mona, flushing hotly beneath the man's curious glance.
"The men connected with this office are all out just at this moment, miss. I am a stranger, and only sitting here for a half-hour or so, just to oblige the officer in charge," the man courteously replied.
"I am very sorry," said the young girl, with a sigh, "for I have come upon business which ought to be attended to immediately."
"I am a detective, miss, although I do not belong here. I'm an officer from New York; but if you see fit to tell me your business, perhaps I might advise you," said the officer, kindly, for he saw that she was greatly troubled.
"You are from New York!" Mona exclaimed, eagerly; "then perhaps it will be better for me to tell you, rather than a St. Louis detective; for the robbery happened in New York."
The detective's eyes flashed with sudden interest at this.
"Ah!" was all he said, however, and this very quietly.