Johnny Thompson was back at the shack in the city. Drew Lane and Tom Howe were there. So too was “The Ferret,” and two heavy-set Federal men. But the center of attention was a certain slim miss in a plain, dark gray suit—Joyce Mills.  
“I have the whole story,” she said impressively, as the last man to arrive drew up a chair. “The trail leads north to the woods and lakes of Michigan.”
 
“Did he tell you where the loot is hidden?” It was a Federal man who spoke.
 
“He did not, because he could not. He didn’t know. He gave the package to another man.”
 
“And where is he now?”
 
Joyce Mills shrugged her shoulders. “How should I know? In the city somewhere.”
 
258
“You let him go!” The Federal man’s tone held guarded scorn.
 
“I did. On his own word that he would not leave the city, nor get in touch with those in the north woods.”
 
“His word!” The Federal man’s scorn was unveiled.
 
“Yes, his word!” The girl’s black eyes flashed. “And if you wish to use the information I have, you will treat me as a lady should be treated!”
 
The Federal man recoiled. For a moment there was silence in the room.
 
“I—I&mda............