conclusion of his recital. Mrs. Fairbanks looked very serious, Ralph worried and excited.
"Something must be done instantly," Ralph declared.
"Hold on," interrupted Van coolly, "make this strictly my affair, if you please. From what I hear, you need all your time and ability for the splendid railroad service you are doing. You can't corner old Farrington—he's too foxy. You can't overtake Slump & Co.—they've got too good a start. It's a simple matter: Farrington is sending Mrs. Davis out of the way. That team has got to come back. The police will find Ike Slump. They don't dare seriously molest Mrs. Davis. I shall keep on the watch. In the morning I will get word somehow to Farwell Gibson. Then I will devote my time strictly to finding Mrs. Davis, and—I intend to find her."
They closed up the deserted house. Then all three took their way homewards.
"Of course you are coming with us, Van?" said Mrs. Fairbanks.
"Yes, ma'am," answered Van promptly. "I want to forget all about this worrying business for twelve hours, so as to be fresh and bright for a new trail in the morning. And I'm just pining for a good, thick slice of your home-made bread."
