Mr. Hardy was thoughtful.
"You must have great faith in them."
"We have," Frank declared. "They had nothing to do with stealing the car, we're certain. It seems tough that they should have to stay in jail just because it was found on their property."
"It's the law of the land. However, as you say, it is rather hard on them. If you lads have enough confidence in the Dodds to put up some of your own money for their bail, I suppose I can do the same. I'll make up the rest of the five thousand."
"Hurray!" shouted Joe. "I knew you'd say that, Dad!"
Mrs. Hardy smiled indulgently from the end of the table. Aunt Gertrude, a peppery old lady who was visiting the Hardys at the time, sniffed in derision. Aunt Gertrude was a maiden lady of advancing years who had very little faith in human nature.
"Chances are they'll go out and steal another car and run away," she snapped. "Waste of money, I call it."
"I'll take my chances with the boys," laughed Mr. Hardy.
"Five thousand dollars gone!" Aunt Gertrude predicted.
"I don't think it'll be as bad as all that, Aunty," said Frank, winking at his brother.
