Mason turned to his fellow sheriff.
"He usually stays there.

That must be him--waiting for the kid." "Then we 'd better hurry--before somebody springs the news." The three entered, to pass the drowsy night clerk, examine the register and to find that their conjecture had been correct.

Tiptoeing, they went to the door and knocked.

A high-pitched voice came from within.
"That you, Maurice ?" Fairchild answered in the best imitation he could give.
"Yes.

I 've got Anita with me." Steps, then the door opened.