And he must have arranged this alibi so as to prove his positive innocence.

If that turns out so, it shows Nick to be a wise one." Shortly afterwards the pair were trudging along the road outside the corporation limits of the town of Scranton.

It was some time before the customary church hour, and they were almost certain to find the old deacon at home, Hugh believed.
On the way they met a car coming along the road.

In it was Chief Wambold.

Scranton had advanced far enough toward the dignity of cityhood to have an auto for the police force, since the Chief often had to go to neighboring towns on matters of business, taking a prisoner, or getting one to fetch back.
He nodded to the boys as he shot past.
"Doesn't look very amiable, does he ?" muttered Thad.