"What we want of you," continued Budd, "is to come over to the island and see the window, with its cut pane, and the lantern the burglars left behind, so that you can testify as to these facts at the trial before the higher court."
A few moments later the island was reached, and Mr. Wright was taken from point to point, the whole story of that night's experience was told anew, and the evidence of it exhibited.
"I wish you all success in your plans," Mr. Wright said, as he got into the yawl to be taken over to "The Hummocks," where they could see his team was already waiting. "But don't run into any danger; and as soon as you locate the rascals, notify the authorities without waiting for them to commit any other crime. Their visit here and over at Hope Island is enough to send them up for a long term of years."
As he parted with them on the main shore he said to Budd:
"I ought to tell you that for a few minutes I hesitated about becoming your bondsman, and Mr. Benton's act led me to a decision. I now thoroughly believe in your and your father's innocence, and shall stand by you, whatever comes. Only, look out for Mr. Benton."
"What does he mean?" asked Judd, as the sloop started down the bay to visit the pounds, which the incidents of the morning had till then prevented.
"He is sure Mr. Benton did not sign my bond from any good motive; and I confess it does seem queer, come to think of it. What do you suppose he is up to?"
"I don't know any more than you do," responded his chum; "but, like Mr. Wright, I distrust him. And there is one thing you may be sure of. If he is up to any game he will show himself very soon; he isn't going to give you time to run away and make him pay that thousand dollars. You see, he don't know Mr. Wright signed the bond also, for he had left the court-room before that was done."
"That's so," said Budd, thoughtfully; "and I think, with you, we shall hear from him before a great while, if his act sprung from any sinister motive."
"There is your man," Judd announced a few hours later, as they approached their wharf; and Mr. Benton was indeed sitting on the dock, awaiting their coming.