“Beyond doubt, Mr. Montague. And the fumes that so nearly overpowered Jack came from chloroform, which had been used to overcome Dean.” “So you think he was carried off?” “I do, Mr. Montague.” “Who could have done it?” “I cannot tell, sir.” “How can we find out?” “I would suggest that you go and see Dean and hear his story, Mr. Montague.” “But last night’s work looks bad.” “Does it look reasonable that he would come back here to rob his old friend? Does it look reasonable that Dean Mercer has turned to a common burglar?” “I cannot tell. I never thought he would burn the steamer of his best friend.” “Has it been proved that he did?” “Miss Eva, you should have been a lawyer. I see your idea. You would have me see Dean Mercer and get his account of the affair?” “Yes.” “What then?” “Will he be tried to-day?” “He will doubtless be given a preliminary hearing and if found guilty bound over to appear at the higher court.” “And put back in jail?” “If he does not get bail.” “If he should get bail?” “He would be allowed his freedom until the time the court sits.” “Will you go and see him?” “Certainly. The State will allow him a lawyer. I will take care of his case.” “Please accept my thanks, Mr. Montague. I shall want to see you as soon as you return.” “You can see me here if you wish. I will not be gone over half an hour.” With these words Mr. Montague put on his hat and left the office to go upon his errand. He may not have been gone more than the specified thirty minutes, but they seemed long ones to the impatient waiters, but Eva saw by the look of satisfaction upon the old lawyer’s countenance that he had good news to impart before he had spoken a word. “Well, Mr. Montague?” she asked. “I am glad I went,” he replied. “The boy was glad to see me and I am to defend him.” “What about his account of the burning of the _Spray_?” she asked eagerly. “It is not as clear as I could wish it to be. He does not seem to have any idea of what happened to him until he found himself miles away from Springfield.” “Which shows that my theory was correct. He was drugged and kidnapped. Didn’t it prove so?” “Ye--es. He has been through some thrilling experiences, but got into an uncomfortable association with a couple of bad men according to his story. He appears innocent.” “He is. And I am going to make father furnish his bail.” “If you will I will do all in my power to save him.” “I thank you, Mr. Montague. I hope you did not tell him that I sent you to see him.” “Not exactly that, Miss Eva. But I did tell him you thought he was innocent, and that seemed to give him new courage. The boy has been through a trying ordeal.” “When will the hearing come off?” “At ten o’clock.” “Then I have no time to lose. I will see you as soon as I have won father over to our side.” “I wish you success.” As the old lawyer watched his departing visitors, he murmured to himself: