The detective was left alone; he was really only working the game to learn all he could about the death of old Tom Pearce, and all he wished to know was whether the smugglers had killed the old man or not; if they were innocent, he knew just in what direction to look for the assassin, and also where to look for the beautiful Renie.
Meantime the gang were anxiously waiting to hear the result of Rigby's conference with the man whom they had caught eavesdropping around the tavern.
Rigby rejoined his friends and customers, who at once crowded around him.
"Well, who is the fellow?"
"He's all right, boys; you remember what I told you about strangers being around here on the lookout for Vance!"
"Is that fellow one, then?"
"He's all right."
"Have you seen his credentials?"
"I tell you he is all right."
"Don't like his looks," said one man.