CHAPTER XXIV
MR. BAKER'S BID
The attitude, actions and announcement of the mysterious Mr. Baker filled Bart Stirling with profound surprise and wonderment.
The young express agent well knew the erratic temperment of his singular friend, but Baker had been so placid and natural up to the present moment, and this excitable outburst was so vivid and unaccountable, that Bart felt sure that there was some important reason for the same.
All eyes were now fixed on Baker. He seemed to put a dramatic climax to a varied entertainment, and appeared unconscious of everything except the package Bart held in his hand. His eyes were fixed upon this steadfastly—they seemed to burn right into it.
Lem Wacker had also arisen to his feet. Bart noticed him intently studying Baker, sidling up to him and sinking to the bench directly next to him.
There was a suspiciousness in the action that enhanced Bart's interest and curiosity, but he preserved his composure.
"Three dollars, did you say?" he inquired, in an insinuating and soothing, but strictly business tone.
"Yes!" gasped out Baker.
"I am bid—"