human
Well, this is what it's about, was the answer.
gpt
As I told you, a parcel of tramps--Klondikers they call themselves because, I understand, some of 'em have been in Alaska. Anyhow a parcel of tramps are living on Cedar Island. They've been robbing right and left, and the folks around here are tired of it. So a complaint was made and I've got a lot of warrants to arrest the men.
human
Do you know any of their names?
gpt
No, all the warrants are made out in the name of John Doe. That's legal, you know.
human
Yes, I know, assented Mr. Howbridge.
gpt
And how many do you expect to arrest?
human
Oh, about half a dozen. Two of 'em have a motor boat, I understand, but they had an accident in the storm last night and can't navigate. That's the reason we're going over there now--they can't get away!
gpt
Good! exclaimed Mr. Howbridge.
human
I fancy, Mr. Newcomb, I may be able to add another complaint to the ones you already have, if two of the men turn out to be the characters we suspect.
gpt
Why, have they been robbing your hen roost, too?
human
No, but two of my wards, Ruth and Agnes Kenway, were robbed of a box of jewelry just before we started on this trip, said the lawyer.
gpt
Two rough men held them up in a hallway on a rainy morning and snatched a jewel box. The men were tramps--and the day before that two men who called themselves Klondikers had looked at vacant rooms in the house where the robbery occurred. Since then the girls think they have seen the same tramps several times. I hope you can round them up.
human
We'll get 'em if they're on Cedar Island! the constable declared.
gpt
Got your guns, boys?