The women flushed painfully when they heard the mention of police headquarters.
“I never took his money,” one of them said. “I don’t believe he ever had the sum he mentions.”
“I am willing to be searched now,” said the other.
“Speaking of this Hughart,” said the proprietor, “Molly, that woman there,” pointing to the one Nick desired to question closely in time; “that woman Molly is the one who had the scheme on with him. She knows where he is if any one does.”
“Where was she last night?” asked Nick.
“I don’t know where she was. She was not seen about the place.”
“I was in my room,” replied Molly.
“I know better,” declared the proprietor. “You were out all evening. Come, now, you dig down and produce that money, or I’ll send you over the road.”
“I haven’t got your money,” declared Molly. “And when it comes to talk about sending me over the road, that is a game two can play at. You had better be careful what you say and do, Ben Hall. If you accuse me of taking your money, I’ll get even with you, and you may depend upon it.”
Angry as he was over his loss, Hall hesitated.