“Perhaps the fact that there is a thousand dollars reward in the case isn’t making you anxious for some cooperation?” suggested Fenton Hardy dryly.

“It ain’t got nothin’ to do with it,” replied Chief Collig virtuously. “We’re just anxious to see this affair cleared up, that’s all. Now, Mr. Hardy, we hear you were with the officers that chased this here notorious criminal Red Jackley.”

Mr. Hardy gave a perceptible start. He had no idea that news of the capture of Jackley had reached Bayport, much less that news of his own participation in the chase had reached the city.

“What of it?”

“Did Jackley have anything to do with this here Tower case?”

“How should I know?”