"I shan't," was that worthy's prompt answer.
"Then I shall call the police," returned Vermont, pulling out his silver cab-whistle.
Wilfer started back.
"Call 'em," he said defiantly. "I don't care. What's the police to me, as I should be scared of 'em?"
"A great deal," was the calm answer. "If you are mad enough to disobey me, I shall whistle for the police; they will find me struggling with a most villainous-looking ruffian, whom I instantly give in charge for assault and robbery of my dear friend, Mr. Leroy, who has gone in search of assistance."
"It's all a lie," shouted Wilfer furiously.
"Appearances would be too strongly against you, my friend. The law is 'a hass,' as doubtless you have heard before; and when it comes in the shape of a blue-coated, helmeted and thick-headed policeman, whose word do you think would be believed, yours or mine?--to say nothing of this evidence." Stooping, he picked up Leroy's gold watch and chain, which had fallen from his pocket during his struggle with Wilfer. "I found this is your hand. A clear case of assault and robbery, with penal servitude to follow."
Mr. Wilfer, dazed by the thickly-meshed net drawn round him, eyed the watch and yielded.
"Curse you!" he said. "You're a knowing one an' no mistake."
Jasper smiled.