“I beg your pardon, gentlemen; but are you the pair of honest
horse-thieves Mr. Simpkins spoke about?”
“The only two in captivity,” said a voice.
“Orville, here is our chance,” whispered Willie. “These are _bona-fide_
horse-thieves, and this is an opportunity we have wished for. Let us
converse with them.”
We went out into the main room and up to their door. The upper half of
the door is a series of iron bars. The moment I saw them I was
delighted. Types! I give you my word of honor, I have never seen such
types.
They were delighted to see us. I told them what we were doing. Mr.
Cooley spoke feelingly of literature. Asked him if he knew any of the
great authors. He said he was very familiar with Sears and Roebuck. I
have never heard of them. In fact, up to the present time, I have cared
little for collaborators.
Mr. Seeley said it was a shame that we couldn’t all sit down together,
but the door was locked. I offered to find Mr. Simpkins and have him
open the door, but Mr. Cooley said it was too much bother. Then he told
me where he thought I could find the key, and sure enough it was
there—in a drawer of the sheriff’s desk.
We went in and sat down. Mr. Seeley asked us if we wouldn’t like some
refreshments, and I said that I surely would, as I had neglected to eat
any dinner. They were very thoughtful. Mr. Cooley said that he and Mr.
Seeley would go out and get us all something to eat and drink. I thanked
them kindly.
They shut the door and went out. Willie was near the door, and after
they went out the office door he said to me—
“Orville, this must be a very primitive place.”