So it was settled, and as Mr. Rossmore's carriage drove up, Will got into it with his host, and drove away, followed by Kent Lomax on horseback, while Hercules returned to town with the buggy and two horses of the robbers, along with those who had come out to the scene upon learning what had occurred.
That Hercules had fared well at the hands of Will, Mr. Rossmore and Kent Lomax was evident by the happy look upon his honest face, and the words: "I wish dere'd be a robber-killin' ebery day, and Sunday too, and dis nigger'd get rich."
At a place where the roads branched off Kent Lomax bade them good-bye, grasping Will's hand warmly, and saying: "You know my name and address, my boy, and if you ever need a friend don't hesitate to call on me, for I have no kindred that are dear to me and I am rich and would be glad to serve you—so command me."
Thus they parted, the man who had been engaged to his mother—the man whom she deserted to marry the man who had so cruelly treated her.
Neither knew what they were to each other, and yet each seemed drawn toward the other. Nor did Will suspect for an instant; an hour afterward, that he was eating dinner beneath the roof where his mother had been born, and that Mrs. Rossmore was his own aunt.
That night Mr. Rossmore and Will took the boat to Baltimore, and having sent from the village a long and explicit dispatch to Captain Daly, an answer was found awaiting them upon their arrival at the hotel in the city the following day.
The answer read:
"New York Police Dep't.
"Special Officer, Will Raymond:—
"Your telegram most satisfactory, and will get requisition for Night Hawk's comrade and have him brought here.
"You have acted as I knew you would in everything, and the chief joins me in congratulations upon your pluck and detective skill.
"You have full permission to go West with Mr. Rossmore, and your leave is unlimited. Success to you.
Daly."