CYRUS MAKES A REPUTATION
The proceedings behind the hidden doors in the cellar of the ruined house between Bathwater and Castle Marvin were not interrupted by so small a matter as the kidnapping of an heiress—a kidnapping that had progressed no further as yet than the capture of a dog.
As Owen stepped into the den the next forenoon he saw the bull terrier tied to the wall.
"I see we have the main ingredient of the repast in hand."
"The main ingredient and the most dangerous," said Wallace. "He has done nothing but howl and bark. May we kill him?"
"Not yet," answered Owen. "It is possible that she might demand sight of him before entering the house, or some nonsense of that sort. I would let him howl a little longer."
"Very well," laughed Wallace. "What orders have you for us today, sir?"
The other counterfeiters kept steadily on at their work over the melting pots, the molds and stamping machines. The old woman was stacking half-dollar pieces at the table.
"Why do you have the woman here?" demanded Owen suddenly.
"To prevent starvation," answered Wallace. "Carrie is not only our purchasing agent, but our excellent cook."