Diamond lighted a cigar. He had a pile of money before him, as they were not playing with chips.
Soon the game was running again.
Back of the cottage a brief consultation was held by Jack’s three friends, and then Merriwell again peered through the knot hole. He quickly grew interested, for a large jack pot was on the table, and there was brisk betting before the draw. Four of the seven remained “in.” They were the stranger who had objected to Bunker, Diamond, Welch and Bunker himself. Bunker was dealing.
Frank watched every move, and he quickly detected the fact that Bunker was “clever.” The man was holding back the top cards as the proper ones came up, and he gave three thus held back to Welch, who was drawing to a pair.
“That is enough!” whispered Merriwell, grimly, as he drew back. “It’s a skin game! We must get in before this hand is played out.”
Round the cottage to the door they went.
“We won’t stop to knock,” said Browning. “Stand aside!”
With a rush, he hurled himself against the door, which flew open with a smash and a slam.
Into the room went the big college man, followed by Merriwell and Hodge. The front room was empty. As Bruce paused a moment, Frank sprang past him, crying:
“Come on!”