Frank released her hold and sprang toward the door. Before he reached it, it burst open, and the lame boy staggered in, looking white and scared.

At that moment a heavy body was heard falling down the stairs.


CHAPTER XXXIII.
UNDER THE CRUST OF A HUMAN HEART.

“What’s the matter?” asked Frank.

Little Jack dropped down on a chair, panting for breath.

“He—he followed me!” gasped the lame boy.

“He? Who?”

“My uncle.”

“Hicks?”