Chapter 4

The Investigation

Jack, Max, and Mr. Pink crossed the road and headed to the Trinity College Library. The female reporter that Jack had seen on the TV was still out front reporting the news. Blue and white “crime scene” tape had been placed around the building. Mr. Pink quickly unlocked a nearby car and pulled out a couple of Watch Phones and Book Bags from the back seat. He gave them to Jack and Max, who strapped them onto their bodies. Mr. Pink pushed a couple of onlookers aside as he led the boys underneath the tape and through the front door.

As soon as they entered, a short bald man with large front teeth rushed over to greet them.

He extended his hand to Jack and Max and shook theirs so enthusiastically that he rattled both of their bodies.

“Thanks for coming,” he said.

Mr. Pink slinked out of the library and left.

“I’m Killian Doyle, the director of the library,” said the man. “I’m so glad that you’re here,” he added, nearly out of breath. “The police and I are absolutely baffled.”

Mr. Doyle hurriedly motioned for Jack and Max to follow him. He led the boys from the entrance and into the library’s “Long Room.” This was the main room of the library. As soon as they saw it, the brothers’ mouths gaped open. It was absolutely beautiful.

The Long Room was more than 200 feet long. Hundreds of thousands of books were stacked on wooden shelves two stories high. Busts of famous thinkers flanked the main walkway, and dark wood paneling covered the arched ceiling above. In the middle were a series of glass cases that showcased some of the most famous literary works in the world.