"There is no doubt of it, Chick. And this conclusion at once suggests
two very natural questions," Nick went on. "First, was one of the
Kilgore gang in Hafferman's store when Venner went there yesterday, and
did he overhear enough of what passed between them to enable him to plan
the job done this morning?"

"Possibly."

"In opposition to that theory, however, is the fact that the forged
order is written on one of Venner's printed letter sheets."

"By a little adroit work, Nick, one of the gang could have obtained a
sheet of Venner's office paper."

"That is very true," admitted Nick. "But since this is a theory founded
only upon conjecture, with no positive evidence to back it up, the
stronger probability is rather to the contrary."

"Right, Nick, as far as that goes."

"I think so."

"And what is the second theory suggested?"

"That some clerk in one of the stores got wind of Venner's contemplated
purchase, and revealed the fact to one of the Kilgore gang, by whom I
am confident--bear in mind--that the crime was committed."

"That theory seems plausible," nodded Chick. "There is young Boyden, you