“Even then he would have to go through Detroit or Michigan City, where we have men.”
“No, he wouldn't. He could get over to the Grand Rapids and Indiana with a few changes and without passing through a single big town. When he once got down there in Indiana, you would have a pretty vigorous time catching him.”
Beveridge mused. “This is all very interesting, Smiley, but it is hardly enough to act on.”
“Isn't it, though? What earthly good could you do on the water that Captain Sullivan couldn't do just as well without you? There he is with his men, and he ought to do what you tell him.”
“I don't know about that,” said Beveridge, with a smile.
“Anyhow,” Dick went on eagerly, “the old Foote isn't going to make any more miles an hour for having you on board.”
“There's something in that. You seem to be keen on this business.”
“Keen! Good Lord, man! don't you see the position I'm in? Don't you see that my only chance is to help you run this down and get at the facts? Honest, I don't see what you could lose by taking a flier overland to Hewittson. It's just one more chance opened up for you, and you ought to take it.”
“How did you happen to know so much about these railroads up here?”
“You didn't suppose I had my eyes shut when I was looking at that chart the other day, did you?”