"The entrance to the gambling house is through the store," explained Bronson. "Do you wish to go in?"
"Yes."
"Come on."
They entered the store. A young man behind the counter looked startled when he saw Bronson, and made a motion that the plain-clothes man checked.
"Don't bother with the buzzer, Tommy," said the officer. "There's nothing doing to my knowledge. This friend of mine wants to reach a chap who's inside. Call Worden, will you?"
A moment later Spice Worden himself appeared, and Bronson quickly convinced him that it was "all right." Worden seemed fearful that they were getting evidence, but the officer assured him to the contrary, upon which they were conducted behind the rear partition, through a dark passage, up a flight of stairs, and finally admitted to Worden's gambling joint.
The place was not luxurious, although it was comfortably fitted and furnished. The air was heavy with tobacco smoke, and a great crowd of men were playing roulette, faro, and other games.
Frank quickly discovered Arthur Hatch, who was "bucking the tiger," his recent companions around him.
But what was more interesting was the discovery of both Felipe Jalisco and Bantry Hagan in the group.
In a moment Merry had pointed Jalisco out to Bronson, and placed the warrant in the hands of the officer. Then he strode forward, pushed into the group, placed his hand on the shoulder of young Hatch, and said: