Both went to the floor in a terrible struggle for the mastery.
Weakened though he was, the detective proved no mean adversary, and he might have conquered had not a third party appeared upon the scene, who at once went to the assistance of Barkswell, and by beating Keene over the head with the butt of a revolver he succeeded in quieting him so that he could be secured.
Keene, nearly senseless, was rolled upon the damp floor, upon his face, and his hands secured with a cord at his back.
"There, I reckon he won't give no more trouble," said a voice that the detective recognized as that of Perry Jounce, the tramp.
"Confound his picture," grated Barkswell. "I believe the scamp would have been too much for me if you hadn't come just as you did."
"Even the service of a brother-in-law hain't allus to be despised; eh,
Andrew?"
"No. You did me a good turn just now, and I'll not forget it."
Detective Keene heard these remarks, and tried to profit by them.
"This man is fooling you, Mr. Jounce," cried Keene, faintly.
"Shut up."