Pin pricks ran along the boy’s spine. His uncle had never been here before—how did he know about the tree? “Yes, sir.”
“A large tree, heavy-branched?”
“Yes, sir.”
“Take me there. Lady, forward.”
The cane explored the trunk and then slowly tapped the ground.
“About six feet from the house, Joe?”
Joe blinked. “How do you know?”
“Sound echoes,” Dr. Stone chuckled. Automobile tires ground the gravel of the driveway.
“It’s Mr. Kent,” said the boy.
Harley Kent hurried up to them. “Is this village supposed to have a police force?” he demanded. “Had to wait half an hour for Captain Tucker to stroll back from breakfast. There could be a dozen murders committed——” He broke off. “Just a moment, Doctor, and I’ll be with you. It occurs to me I may have left that lighter in another suit——”