Merry looked at the picture, and, indeed, the blind girl showed a strong resemblance to the sad-faced, beautiful woman.

Rap! rap! rap!—a heavy knock on the door.

Little Nell uttered a startled exclamation, and then the door was flung open.

Outside stood a dark-faced man, whom Frank recognized instantly.

It was old Joe Hicks!

“It’s the man who followed us!” cried the lame boy, in a flutter of excitement.


CHAPTER XXIII.
AN UNWELCOME RELATION.

Frank had risen to his feet and he took a step toward the door.

From the lips of the blind girl came another cry, one of fear.