The sound of running feet came nearer. A figure skidded to a stop by their door. Behind this figure stood what was certainly the biggest Chinese in all the Orient.
The key turned. The grandson came in. Behind him came the giant. Under an almost concealing broad-brimmed hat, the “Oriental” was grinning widely.
“Muscles! How did you get here?” Biff and Charlie shot the question at their friend in the same breath.
“No time for an answer now. We got to make with the feet. There’s enough excitement in the kitchen now to cover our escape.”
The grandson was at the side of the Ancient One. He helped him to his feet.
“Hold it,” Muscles called out. “Let me see if the coast is clear.” He leaned out the door. “Looks okay—oh-oh—hold it. A guard’s coming along. I’ll take him.”
And he did. As the guard reached the door, Muscle’s huge arm snaked out. He grabbed the guard by the collar and lifted him by one hand into the room. With his other hand, he struck the guard a chopping blow, and the guard went limp without uttering a sound. Charlie Keene caught him as he slumped over.
“Stack him in the corner, Charlie. Might be another one coming along.”
Muscles was right. Another guard came trotting down the hall and received the same treatment.
“Two down—how many to go?” Muscles was enjoying himself.