CHAPTER XXI

AGAINST TIME

Dixon's prediction proved correct. When I was brought into court a second time there was still no news of Wilkins, and after further testimony of no importance the case was again adjourned. This time, however, bail was allowed, and Boone and Rancher Gordon stood surety for me. The latter was by no means rich, and had, like the rest of us, suffered severe losses of late. Dixon was the first to greet me when I went forth, somewhat moodily, a free man for the time being.

"You don't look either so cheerful or grateful as you ought to be," he said.

"You are wrong in one respect. I am at least sincerely grateful for your efforts."

Dixon, in defiance of traditions, smote me on the shoulder. "Then what's the matter with the cheerfulness?"

"It is not exactly pleasant to have a charge of this description hanging over one indefinitely, and I have already lost time that can never be made up," I said. "Lane will no doubt produce his witness when he considers it opportune, and there is small encouragement to work in the prospect of spending a lengthy time in jail while one's possessions go to ruin."

"You think Lane had a hand in his disappearance?" Dixon asked thoughtfully; and when I nodded, commented: "I can't quite say I do. My reasons are not conclusive, and human nature's curious, anyway; but I'm not sure that Wilkins will, if he can help it, turn up at all. However, in the meantime, the dinner we're both invited to will put heart into you."

1. Who asked if Lane had something to do with the disappearance?
2. Did he think Lane did?
3. Were his reasons sound?
4. What were they invited to?
5. Whose predictions came true?
6. How many times had court been held?
7. And still nothing about Wilkins?
8. Who posted bail?
9. Who didn't have tons of money?
10. Who did he see first?

Provide a numbered list of answers.
1. Dixon
2. he's not sure
3. he is not 100%
4. dinner
5. Dixon's
6. Two
7. no news
8. Boone and Rancher Gordon
9. Boone and Rancher Gordonhad had suffered losses
10. Dixon