Theron
Allen arrived at nine o'clock, although at that hour two
responsible men had already given a bail-bond. After dinner,
Trove, a constable, and the attorney rode to Robin's Inn. The news
had arrived before them, but only the two boys and Tunk were at
home. The latter stood in front of the stable, looking earnestly
up the road.
"Hello," said he, gazing curiously at horse and men as they came up
to the door. He seemed to be eyeing the attorney with hopeful
anticipation.
"Tunk," said Trove, cheerfully, "you have a mournful eye."
Tunk advanced slowly, still gazing, both hands deep in his trousers
pockets.
"Ez Tower just went by," said he, with suppressed feeling. "Said
you was arrested fer murder."
"I presume you were surprised."
"Wal," said he, "Ez ain't said a word before in six months."
Tunk opened the horse's mouth and stood a moment, peering
thoughtfully at his teeth.
"Kind of unexpected to be spoke to by Ez Tower," he added, turning
his eyes upon them with the same curious look.
The interrogation of Tunk and the two boys began immediately. The
story of the fowl corroborated, the sugar-bush became an object of
investigation. Milldam was ten miles away, and it was quite
possible for the young man to have ridden there and back between
the hour when Tunk left him and that of sunrise when he met Mrs.
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