Page:Ned Wilding's Disappearance.djvu/204

194 "Wonder what ails Frank?" asked Bart of Fenn, as they went to their rooms to get their coats and hats.

"A fit of the same old mysteriousness," replied Stumpy. "Don't notice him and it will pass over."

"Let me go to headquarters with you," begged William. "I want to help."

"Are you strong enough to go out?" asked Bart. "It's quite cold."

"Oh I'm used to that," and the boy laughed.

"But you—er—you have no overcoat," said Fenn, wishing when it was too late he had not mentioned it.

"I'm used to that too," William replied.

"Would you mind if we loaned you money enough to get a coat?" asked Bart.

William thought for a moment.

"I'm ever so much obliged to you," he said. "You've done more for me now than I can ever repay."

"Then a little more won't hurt," said Fenn with a laugh.

The overcoat was purchased, and the four boys went to police headquarters.

"Gentleman waiting to see you," the sergeant said. "Seems terribly upset about something."