"So O'Dowd knows that I really was after the swag, eh? He believes I
got it?"
"I suppose so."
"The only one who thinks I'm absolutely innocent is Ugo, of course,--
and Mrs. Van Dyke. That's good." Sprouse smacked his lips. "Just send
me on to Hornville in the car, and don't give me another thought till
you hear from me. I've got a pretty fair idea where I can find Mr.
Loeb. It will take a little time,--a couple of days, perhaps,--but
sooner or later he'll turn up in close proximity to the beautiful
baroness."
CHAPTER XIX
A TRIP BY NIGHT, A SUPPER, AND A LATE ARRIVAL
Shortly after sundown that evening, the Rushcroft Company evacuated
Hart's Tavern. They were delayed by the irritating and, to Mr.
Rushcroft, unpardonable behaviour of two officious gentlemen, lately
arrived, who insisted politely but firmly on prying into the past,
present and future history of the several members of the organisation,
including the new "backer" or "angel," as one of the operatives slyly
observed to the other on beholding Miss Thackeray.
Barnes easily established his own identity and position, and was not
long in convincing the investigators that his connection with the
stranded company was of a purely philanthropic nature,--yes, even
platonic, he asseverated with some heat when the question was put to
him.
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