"I can't agree with you. If he were doing that he wouldn't leave his work about," said Sam.
"He leaves about what he likes. I'll bet he has some things he would not like to be seen," said Abel.
"It's a dangerous thing to be a spy," said Sam; "and I don't think he looks like one. He'd have no time for courting if he'd a job like that."
"For two pins I'd give information against him," said Abel. "If I get half a chance, and enough evidence to go on I'll do it."
"It is a serious charge to make," said Sam, and the trainer agreed.
As they walked home they continued the conversation, and Sam gave Fred to understand there was something suspicious about Carl Meason's movements.
"But it doesn't look much like spying. He's after Jane Thrush and means matrimony—he'd have no time on his hands for that," said Sam.
Carl Meason left the Inn and walked to the keeper's cottage. He saw him leave, gun under arm, and as he wanted the coast clear it suited his purpose. Jane opened the door when he tapped—she had come to know the sound.
"Father's gone out," she said.
"I saw him. I am glad; I want a few words with you alone," he replied.
"I am going away for a time on business and I want you to go with me.
I shall be lost without you."