“I think I shall not. It is most fortunate for me that you found the stick to-night. I am indebted to you, and if I can pay the——”
Merry cut him short with a gesture.
“Don’t speak of pay! I’m glad to get rid of the thing!”
The stranger laughed and retreated toward the door.
“Perhaps I shall be,” he said. “Good night.”
He opened the door and turned to go out. Then he leaped backward, for just outside the door stood a tall Chinaman!
CHAPTER XIX
FRANK’S FAITH UNSHAKEN.
Before Merriwell or Starbright could make a move, the stranger leaped forward again, his hand having plunged into a pocket and come out. He gave it a flirt, and something struck the Chinaman fairly in the eyes.
With a cry of pain, the Celestial clapped his hands to his eyes and reeled backward. Quick as a flash, the stranger shot past him and was gone.