'Mildred would if she wanted to. It has seemed to me lately...' 'What?' 'I don't know--but once or twice--as if she might be getting a little too fond of Humphrey.' 'Oh'--there was concern in Henry's voice--'do you think so?' 'I wonder if you know just how fascinating that man is, Henry.' 'He's never been with girls--not around here. You've no idea--he just lives with his books, and in his shop.' 'Perhaps that's why,' said she. 'Partly. Mildred ought to be careful.' Henry, soberly considering this new light on his friend, looked off toward the corner. He sat up abruptly. 'Henry' For goodness' sake! Ouch--my hair!' 'Ssh! Look--that man coming across! Wait. There now--with a suit-case!' 'Oh, Henry, you scared me! Don't be silly. He's way out in... Henry! How awful! It _is!_' 'What'll we do?' 'I don't know. Get up. Sit over there,' She was working at her hair; she smoothed her 'waist,' and pulled out the puff sleeves. The man came rapidly nearer. His straw hat was tipped back. They could see the light of a cigar. A mental note of Henry's was that Arthur V. Henderson had been a football player at the state university. And a boxer. Even out of condition he was a strong man. 'Quick--think of something to tell him! It'll have to be a lie. Henry--_think!_' Then, as he stood motionless, helpless, she got up, thrust his hat and bamboo stick into his hands, and led him on tiptoe around the corner of the house. 'We've got to do something. Henry, for goodness' sake--' 'We've got to find her, I think.' 'I know it. But----' 'If she came in with Hump, and he--you know, this time' of night--why, something awful might happen. There might be murder. Mr Henderson----' 'Don't talk such stuff! Keep your head. Well--he's coming! Here!' She gripped his hand, dragged him down the side steps, and ran lightly with him out past the woodshed to the alley. They walked to the side street and, keeping in the shadows, out to the Chestnut Avenue corner. From this spot they commanded the house. Mr Henderson had switched on lights in front hall, dining-room, and kitchen. The parlour was still dark. Next he had gone upstairs, for there were lights in the upper windows. After a brief time he appeared in the front doorway. He lighted a fresh cigar, then opened the screen door and came out on the porch. He stood there, looking up and down the street. Then he seated himself on the top step, elbows on knees, like a man thinking. 'Henry!' 'Yes.' 'Listen! You go over to the rooms and see.' 'But they might be down at the lake.' 'Not all this time. Mildred doesn't like sitting on beaches. If you find them, bring her back. We'll go in together, she and I. We'll patch up a story. It's all right. Just keep your head.' 'What'll you do?' 'Wait here.' 'I don't like to leave you.' 'You'll see me again.' 'I know, but----' 'Well... Now hurry!' 2 The old barn was dark.