“It may be throwing good money after bad,” said the first director, shaking his head.
“Nevertheless,” said the second director, “I move that we try it, anyhow.”
“Shall I go ahead?” asked the president.
“Yes,” came from both directors and the cashier.
Ten minutes later the following telegram was speeding over the wires:
“Nicholas Carter, New York City: Bank robbery here. Will you name your own fee and take the case?
“Julius Hepner.”
“He won’t come,” said Clarkson, one of the directors. “He has all he can attend to right in New York.”
But Clarkson was wrong, for the following answer came from the great detective within two hours after the president had wired:
“Julius Hepner, Latimer, Vt.: Coming on first train. Keep hands off until I get there.