“That’s true. I couldn’t take him on Canadian soil without extradition papers. I have his diamonds, however, and he prefers to give them up rather than take any chances of being arrested and handed over to our government.”
“It’s a strange way to smuggle,” said John thoughtfully.
“All smugglers are strange. I have been in the employ of the government a good many years and I never have found one that wasn’t ‘strange.’”
“What do you suppose those diamonds are worth?” inquired Fred.
“According to the word we have received,” replied Mr. Button, “there are diamonds in that box valued at from $10,000 to $15,000.”
“Whew!” said John. “I guess I will hand it over to you right away. You had better take it,” he said as he drew the box from its hiding place and handed it to the Government Agent.
“I want to thank you boys for the part you have taken,” continued Mr. Button, “and I shall not forget about other rewards. I think the first real evidence I had came when the clerk at the hotel by mistake gave you my letter. Why did you write those letters!” he added turning abruptly upon Rufus, as he spoke.
“What letters?” demanded Rufus.
“About the smuggler.”
For a moment the ungainly man appeared to be somewhat confused; then, rising from his seat and throwing back his shoulders, he said proudly, “I could not leave those diamonds on my conscience. I had to tell you about it.”