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120 "We might send him a letter, to his last residence. Maybe the post-office authorities will forward it," suggested Phil.

"I did that," answered the senator's son. "I told him that I wanted to hear from him at once, and that it would be money in his pocket to write or to telegraph to me. I didn't mention your name, Dave, for I thought he might hear of this robbery and get suspicious."

It was ideal weather for skating and sleighing, but none of the young folks at the Wadsworth mansion felt like going out for fun. All could see that the older folks were much worried, and consequently, they were worried, too.

"Oh, Dave, what if those jewels are never recovered?" said Laura to her brother, when they were alone. "It will just about ruin Mr. Wadsworth, Uncle Dunston says."

"Let us hope for the best, Laura."

"I heard you and the other boys talking about Nick Jasniff and Link Merwell."

"Yes?"

"Do you really imagine they had something to do with it?"

"Yes, I think so, and so do Phil, Ben, and Roger. But the detectives and Mr. Wadsworth think the work was done by professionals. They don't think that fellows like Nick and Link would be equal to the job."