is to come out and say what you have to say.
If there is nothing against you, then that is your best course."

Garry recognized that the Chief was a fair man, and decided to tell
their story.

"We are Forest Rangers, sir, just going to a new post of duty. We were
down on that street in search of a gunsmith's shop to procure a new
rifle to replace one that one of my companions lost. We heard screams
coming from the old house and ran to see if we could be of assistance.
One of the boys found the old man who is now dead being attacked by a
younger man. He was driven out, making his escape by a window and over
the roof of the ell. Then we went and summoned the policeman from his
beat, and now here we are."

"How does it happen you do all the talking?" asked the Chief.

"Why, the boys have seen fit to make me the leader and spokesman at all
times. We have always done that."

"You seem to tell a straight enough story in some ways," said the Chief.
"But I have seen a good many Forest Ranger service men go through this
town, and I never saw boys doing that work before. As far as the death
of the old man is concerned, I see nothing to hold you on, as I
understand that he died and was not killed while you were there. I am
inclined to think you are stretching things a bit, however, when you
claim to be Rangers. You are sure you boys aren't making tracks for the
Big Woods in search of supposed adventure, are you?"

"That is the second time tonight that we have been accused of that, and
it is getting a bit tiresome. I think we can satisfy you very quickly,
however. There are probably men in town who know my father, who is part
owner of the pulp mills up the river. The best way, however, is to get
the Chief Ranger, Mr. Ardmore, on the long distance 'phone. Till then I
think we won't say anything more."

The Chief looked at them quizically for a moment. He was still inclined
to be suspicious, but the mention of Garry's father made him think that
perhaps he was on the wrong track. He pulled an extension 'phone to him,
and called the long distance operator.

"This is the Chief of Police talking," he said. "I want you to get the
Chief Forest Ranger, Mr. Ardmore, at Augusta. You can get his home
telephone number from the night operator at the State House. This is an
emergency, so rush it through," and he replaced the receiver on the
hook.

"That will do for now, Murphy, and Coroner, I suppose you want to make
out your report. Y