"Even if I found him I am afraid I shouldn't know how to deal with him."

"Then I'll tell you what I'll do. I'll stop over with you and help you
make it hot for him. I've had a spite against thieves ever since I had a
valuable overcoat stolen in one of my journeys."

"I shall feel very much obliged to you, Mr. Woods, but won't it
interfere with your business?"

"Not materially. If we succeed in overhauling the rascal I shall feel
sufficiently repaid for the small interruption. But come on, we can't
afford to linger here while he is carrying off the plunder."

"I don't know how I can repay you, Mr. Woods," said Rodney gratefully.

"You can buy a lot of me when you get rich enough."

"I will certainly do so, though I am afraid it will be a long time
first."

"You don't know what good fortune may be in store for you. Did you
notice, madam, in which direction the thief went?"

"Yes, I was looking out of the window. He went over the road to the
left."

"That leads to the village. You will see, Mr. Ropes, that I was right
about his plans."

"Don't call me Mr. Ropes. Call me Rodney."