th a Mr. Buck, an old
acquaintance of my "mother-in-law."

Of course "mother-in-law" acquaintances were just as good as any, at
this stage of the game. I rode into Burr Oak just at dark, supposing it
to be in Branch County. After registering at the hotel and putting my
horse out, I took supper; and then began looking about for a buyer. I
very soon discovered that I was being shadowed, by a gentleman wearing a
wooden leg.

[Illustration: A WILY DETECTIVE ON THE WRONG SCENT.]

Upon inquiry, I learned that he was the Honorable Marshal of the town.
To note his manner one would have thought that he had corralled a Jesse
James. I didn't worry much, however, because I knew I could out-run any
wooden-legged man in Michigan.

I then went over to the telegraph office and introduced myself to its
occupant as a brother operator. He invited me inside the office, and
asked me to make myself at home.

A few moments later the ten-o'clock train arrived from the west, and
immediately after its departure the operator said he would have to go
down the track and attend to his switch-light, and requested me to
remain there till he returned.

During his absence a gentleman came to the office window, and very
excitedly inquired if I was the operator. I said:

"Don't I look like one? What can I do for you, sir?"

"Well, see here: Has there been a young fellow here this evening by the
name of Johnston, sending messages to his wife, or to any one else?"

"Yes, sir, he was telling me about a patent-right trade he had made for
a horse. Guess he told me all about it."

"Where is he now, I wonder?" was his next query.

"Come with me. I'll show you right where to find him."

I then led the way up street, and in the meantime questioned him as to
his business. He said he wanted to serve a writ of replevin and take the
horse. I then asked if he had papers that would do for Branch County. He
said he didn't need Branch County papers, as Burr Oak was in St. Joseph
County.

This was most depressing news to me; but I walked along till I came to
a street running north, when I stopped, and pointing in that direction,
said:

"Now you go to the very last house on the left-hand side of this street,
and inquire for Johnston. If they say he isn't there, you force your way
into the house. Don't leave till you get in; and there's no one here who
wouldn't be only too glad to see that family come up with by a good
sharp detective. Now don't fail to get