"
"There, then, we are agreed. Now, Mr. Reed, I will tell you
why I have taken the liberty of sending for you. From what
Luke said, I judged that you were a sharp, shrewd man of the
world, and might help me in this matter, which I confess
puzzles me. You know the particulars, and therefore, without
preamble, I am going to ask you whether you have any theory as
regards this robbery. The box hasn't walked off without help.
Now, who took it from the bank?"
"If I should tell you my suspicion you might laugh at me."
"I will promise not to do that."
"Then I believe that Prince Duncan, president of the Groveton
Bank, could tell you, if he chose, what has become of the box."
"Extraordinary!" ejaculated John Armstrong.
"I supposed you would be surprised--probably indignant, if you are
a friend of Duncan--but, nevertheless, I adhere to my statement."
"You mistake the meaning of my exclamation. I spoke of it
as extraordinary, because the same suspicion has entered my
mind, though, I admit, without a special reason."
"I have a reason."
"May I inquire what it is?"
"I knew Prince Duncan when he was a young man, though
he does not know me now.
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