'Matter enough,' said Dr Tom. 'Willie Dennis was attacked last night and hit over the head. I hope you will make inquiries into the matter.' Then, catching sight of Abe Dalton, Dr Tom said, 'Perhaps Dalton can lay his hand on the man who did it. He's about as likely a person as anyone I know for that job. They have some shady fellows hanging around Barker's Creek.'
'You let me alone,' said Abe Dalton, menacingly. 'What right have you to make such accusations against me?'
'The right every honest man has to think ill of a thief,' said Dr Tom, boldly.
'You shall pay for this,' said Dalton.
Constable Doonan put his hand on Abe Dalton's shoulder and said,—
'I saw you coming from the direction of Dr Sheridan's house last night. Be careful what you say and do.'
'And who the devil are you that I should be afraid of you? Can't a man walk about the street without being suspected of such a thing as this? Wait until your betters speak to me,' said Dalton.
'I think you had better let the matter rest for the present,' said Sergeant Machinson to Dr Tom. 'I will see every inquiry is made.'
'Mind you do,' said the doctor, who had a temper when it was roused. 'Mind you do, and don't forget to call at Barker's Creek for information.'
'I know my work, and need no instructions from you,' said the sergeant, and walked away. The doctor's statement was soon known, and sympathy was expressed for Jim Dennis and his son.