“The girl has told me that, Nick, but I could not credit it,” he said, more gravely.
“It is true, chief. You can bank on it.”
“I’m mighty glad you have showed up, then.”
“I knew you would be.”
The chief turned to Helen Bailey and laid his hand on hers.
“Pardon me, my girl,” he said gently. “We have hard duties to perform at times, and duty leaves us no alternative. You are a good girl and a brave girl, and I’m sorry to have given you so much pain and trouble. I now believe all you have told me, and I’m very proud of you.”
Helen was sobbing again, but with mingled gratitude and relief. She turned and grasped Nick’s hand, saying brokenly:
“Oh, Mr. Carter, how can I thank you—how can I thank you?”
“By not trying to do so,” Nick replied kindly. “These little services are the bright spots in our lives. Go and wait for me in the outer office. I wish to talk with the chief a few moments and I then will join you.”
Helen dried her tear-filled eyes and obeyed him.