Detective Smuff fished out the inevitable notebook and pencil.

“I’ll note ’em down, chief,” he remarked.

“You may as well put back the notebook, Smuff,” snapped Fenton Hardy, with annoyance. “If I went away, it is my own business, and if I am still working on the Tower robbery, that’s my business too. I’ll thank you to keep to your own affairs.”

Chief Collig opened his mouth, then closed it again. He took out his handkerchief and mopped his brow, all the while staring at Fenton Hardy. Then he turned and gazed at Smuff.

“Detective Smuff,” he said, in a solemn voice, “did you hear that?”

“I did.”

“What do you think of it, Detective Smuff?”