“If he knew the treasure was hidden somewhere in that general direction, it would be very convenient,” Rodland said. “He would have time and leisure to grab this particular Cira treasure and not have to share it with Colin, the current laird of the Run. And he’d made arrangements to marry Fiona, one of the MacDuff women, and no one would question if he suddenly got an additional influx of cash.”

“Only his plans fell apart?” Jane was taking it step by step. “Fiona disappeared and at first he wouldn’t have suspected she had anything to do with stealing his treasure because MacClaren had left for America months before.” She added, “And Fiona had made certain Graeme believed she was reconciled to the marriage.”

“Then who was the culprit?” Rodland asked in a mock-hushed voice.

“Saldaron. He would have been on the suspect list, because he agreed to the spur arrangement and Graeme wouldn’t trust him not to have snooped.” She tilted her head. “Right?”

Rodland nodded. “That would be reasonable. Particularly since Saldaron’s home was ransacked two weeks later. The police found a few pieces of clothing belonging to Fiona when they searched the house. Saldaron knew better than to try to vindicate himself when it came to the laird’s niece. He packed up and left the next day.” He met Jane’s gaze. “Was it just in time to avoid getting killed by Graeme who thought he’d stolen his treasure? Or was he framed by MacClaren to draw the heat away from Fiona? It could have gone either way.”

“You mean you didn’t find out?”

“I only had a few days,” he protested. “But I’d bet the treasure was stolen from Graeme or he wouldn’t have shown up later in America looking for MacClaren and Fiona. MacClaren could have stolen the treasure himself to have a nest egg for his Fiona.”

“Or not.”

“Or not,” he agreed. “I know you prefer to believe in love’s young dream. But at any rate, I’m sure that Adams will embroider the story to suit himself and his audience. I guarantee that Bohdan doesn’t give a damn for love’s young dream. Adams will go for capturing you and Caleb and forcing you to tell him with whom or where that treasure can be found in the most painful way possible.”

“You always know how to cheer me up.”

“You don’t need anyone to do that. You’ll be floating on air if you and Caleb can bring Bohdan down.” He grinned. “And at least Adams can use that rail yard in the Highlands to make his story more authentic.” He winked at her. “And if you’re extremely lucky, I might free myself to help you a bit. I’ve been feeling quite like a second father lately toward that child you’re going to produce.”