"Oh, I've got news that will Interest you."
"About Sadler?"
"Yes."
"Tell me about it," demanded Blodgett, hoarsely. "What has he found out?"
"A whole lot."
"Does he suspect us?"
"I don't know as to that. He suspects somebody."
"You didn't tell him anything, did you?" asked Volney, catching Crandall by the arm.
"No, but he is satisfied that he was swindled. He was going to the Hartford police about it."
"Hang the luck!" muttered Blodgett. "Tell us the particulars."
"Come inside and I will—it's too cold out here," was the answer; and then the three men entered the tavern.
Dave and Gus Plum had not heard all of the talk, but they had heard enough, and each looked at the other inquiringly.
"I believe they are thorough rascals," said Dave. "I wish we could hear the rest of what that Crandall has to say."
"Come with me—I've been in this building before," answered the former bully of Oak Hall.
He led the way to an alley halfway down the block. This ran to the rear of the tavern, where
