As they descended the stairs and went back into the main part of the mansion, Hurd Applegate elaborated on this theory. The fact that the loot had not been found in the face of Red Jackley’s story, seemed to strengthen his conviction that Robinson had something to do with the affair.
“Either Robinson found the stuff and kept it, or else he was in league with Jackley!” said Applegate. “He’s mixed up in it some way. I’m sure of that.”
The boys could say nothing. They realized that the theory was probable, although in their hearts they found it hard to believe that their chum’s father could have had anything to do with the theft. They were deeply puzzled and tremendously disappointed, for they had been practically certain that the loot would be found. Now they saw that the only consequence of the whole affair was to involve Mr. Robinson more deeply than ever in the mystery.
Back in the hallway they endured the taunts of Adelia Applegate, who cackled jubilantly when she saw that the searching party had returned empty-handed.
“There now!” she crowed. “Who’s right now? Didn’t I tell you it was all nonsense? Hurd Applegate, you’ve simply been made a fool of by these two boys.”
“Now, Adelia, I think they meant well—”
“Meant well! Of course they meant well! And what did it gain you? They have prowled through the place all morning and all the good that’s come of it is that perhaps you won’t be so ready to believe the next cock-and-bull story someone tells you. Go back to your stamps, Hurd Applegate, and let it be a lesson to you. As for you boys, you should be ashamed of yourselves, disturbing folks like this!”