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230 boys ask a policeman to investigate the matter. Meanwhile, Mr. Wilding advised Bart to keep close watch on the lodging house.

William and Bart now took up their positions where they could observe the entrance to the place. They did not know there was a rear stairway, but, as Cassidy had no idea of spiriting Ned away, desiring, in fact, to only keep him secure, there was no need of guarding the back.

It seemed a long time before Mr. Wilding arrived with the detective. About the same time Frank and Fenn got to the place.

"I have told the detective all about it, as far as we know the circumstances," Mr. Wilding said. "Are you sure Ned is in there, William?"

"Almost positive," was the answer. The man admitted as much. He says Ned stole money from him and has to work to pay it back."

"We'll soon see about it," the detective put in. "I know Cassidy. He's a rough sort, but he's square I guess. Come on."

Up the stairs they went, the hearts of the boys beating with anxiety. Mr. Wilding's face showed the strain he was under but, as for the detective, he seemed to take it all as a matter of course. He had seen too many similar scenes to be affected.

The little party entered the main room of the