“Of course.  It is hardly to be supposed that it has been mislaid.  Even if it had been it would have turned up before this.  Did you discover any traces of the bank being forcibly entered?”

“No; but the burglar may have covered his tracks.”

“There would have been something to show an entrance.  What is the character of the cashier and teller.”

“I know nothing to their disadvantage.”

“Then neither have fallen under suspicion?”

“Not as yet,” answered the president pointedly.

“It is evident,” thought John Armstrong, “that Mr. Duncan is interested in diverting suspicion from some quarter.  He is willing that these men should incur suspicion, though it is clear he has none in his own mind.”

“Well, what else have you done?  Have you employed detectives?” asked Armstrong, impatiently.

“I was about to do so,” answered Mr. Duncan, in some embarrassment, “when I heard that you were coming home, and I thought I would defer that matter for your consideration.”

“Giving time in the meanwhile for the thief or thieves to dispose of their booty?  This is very strange conduct, Mr. Duncan.”

“I acted for the best,” said Prince Duncan.

“You have singular ideas of what is best, then,” observed Mr. Armstrong coldly.  “It may be too late to remedy your singular neglect, but I will now take the matter out of your hands, and see what I can do.”

“Will you employ detectives?” asked Duncan, with evident uneasiness.

Armstrong eyed him sharply, and with growing suspicion.

“I can’t say what I will do.”

“Have you the numbers of the missing bonds?” asked Duncan anxiously.

“I am not sure.  I am afraid I have not.”

Was it imagination, or did the bank president look relieved at this statement?  John Armstrong made a mental note of this.

After eliciting the particulars of the disappearance of the bonds, John Armstrong rose to go.  He intended to return to the city, but he made up his mind to see Luke first.  He wanted to inquire the address of Roland Reed.

CHAPTER XXII

LUKE SECURES A NEW FRIEND

Luke was engaged in copying when Mr. Armstrong called.  Though he felt surprised to see his visitor, Luke did not exhibit it in his manner, but welcomed him politely, and invited him into the sitting-room.

“I have called to inquire the address of your friend, Mr. Roland Reed,” said Mr. Armstrong.  Then, seeing a little uneasiness in Luke’s face, he added quickly:  “Don’t think I have the slightest suspicion of him as regards the loss of the bonds.  I wish only to consult him, being myself at a loss what steps to take.  He may be able to help me.”

Of course, Luke cheerfully complied with his request.

“Has anything been heard yet at the bank?” he asked.