“He’s comin’ round,” said one.
Another of the masked gang uttered an exclamation of satisfaction.
“I’m glad the critter ain’t hurt much,” he said, in a voice which Frank instantly recognized. “I didn’t want ter crack his head, fer that ’ud spoil ther fun we’re goin’ ter have with him.”
“He won’t make much spread on the stage for a long time after we get through with him,” said the first speaker.
“Not onless he does so as a curiosity,” chuckled the other, hoarsely.
Then this one stepped up to Merry and kicked him in the ribs.
“Come, my pritty dude actor,” he said, roughly. “We’re goin’ ter give ye a new suit o’ clothes.”
At this the other masked ruffians laughed.
“Thank you, Sam Hooker,” said Frank, quite coolly. “You are becoming exceedingly generous.”
“Who ye callin’ Sam Hooker?”