“No, ma'am. The police came round asking questions, and the baby wasn't seen in Grubb's court after that.”
“You think it was Pinky Swett whom you saw just now?”
“I'm dead sure of it, sir,” turning to Mr. Dinneford, who had asked the question.
“And you are certain it was the little boy named Andy that she had with her?”
“I'm as sure as death, sir.”
“Did he look frightened?”
“Oh dear, yes, sir—scared as could be. He pulled back all his might, but she whisked him along as if he'd been only a chicken. I saw them go round the corner of Clayton street like the wind.”
Mr. Paulding now joined them, and became advised of what had happened. He looked very grave.
“We shall find the little boy,” he said. “He cannot be concealed by this wretched woman as the baby was; he is too old for that. The police will ferret him out. But I am greatly concerned for Mr. Hall. That child is the bond which holds him at safe anchorage. Break this bond, and he may drift to sea again. I must go after him.”
And the missionary hurried away.