He had not gone very far down this when he was accosted by a stranger.
“You have paid a visit to the bank at Saltwich, I believe?” said the latter.
“What business is it of yours whether I have or not?” returned Mr. Sutherland.
“I ask you a simple question, and I must insist upon an answer. Have you been to the bank?”
“If I have, what is it to you?”
“You presented a cheque drawn by Mr. Leathside, and the cheque was paid?”
“Upon my word, your insolence is most remarkable. What have you to do with my business transactions? Stand aside, and let me pass.”
“You will have to accompany me. I arrest you upon the charge of obtaining money under false pretences,” returned the stranger. “It is of no use you attempting to carry the matter off with a high hand, Mr. Sutherland; you are my prisoner,” observed the detective, for such he was. “You are my prisoner, and will have to answer the charge preferred against you.”
As he uttered these last words he placed his hand on the Dandy’s shoulder.
“Confound your impudence!” exclaimed the latter. “If you attempt to detain me, I’ll lay you flat in a brace of shakes.”