It was finally the weekend. Arnold did have to work at the store again. Gerald had the weekend off while Harold worked alone. Harold didn't mind working by himself. Once Arnold arrived at the store early that Saturday morning, he found the store empty. It was empty because all the hats had been stolen overnight. Arnold asked his boss if he knew that the hats were stolen.
"Yes, I do know. When I walked in earlier, there were no hats to be sold today. Police are on its way. I would suggest you don't work during this robbery. It could get dangerous if you did work," his boss, a dirty blonde in his mid - twenties advised.
"Do we know who did it?" Arnold asked.
"It's a bit too early to tell at the minute, but we'll find out," the boss, Troy said.
Arnold stuck around when the cops showed up. The sheriff, Big Bob Pataki, who was Helga's father was at the scene. Arnold right away recognized Sheriff Pataki. Big Bob also recognized Arnold and said nothing. Arnold didn't seem to care either way Big Bob did all the questioning while his deputy, Gerald's brother took notes.
"Any idea how many hats were taken?" Big Bob asked.
Arnold stayed put and silent while the questioning was in progress.
"We're not sure, Sheriff. I think maybe over four hundred or less," Troy answered.
Arnold could tell Troy was doing his best to answer all the questions Bob was asking.
"I would suggest that this store is out of business until we figure out who made a mess like this," Big Bob told him.
"Yes, sir," Arnold said knowingly.
That's when he left the store and headed straight home.
Phil, Arnold's grandfather, was at the door when Arnold entered.
"What are you doing here, Shortman? I thought you had to work today," Phil said, surprised Arnold was home early.
"A robbery took place overnight, Grandpa. No work for me until then," Arnold said with disappointment.
"Don't feel bad, Shortman. You'll be able to work at the store when this gets cleared up," Phil said reassuringly.
"Thanks, Grandpa. I sure hope to go back soon."
