“Careful!” said a low voice that the lad recognized with a start.
Jack half wheeled and muttered:
“Frank! What——”
“Sh-h-h,” was Frank’s response, for it was really he, and added quickly: “When the light goes out, duck and make for the door. I’ll be behind you.”
Jack said nothing, but awaited developments as he moved still nearer Count Blowinski. He held himself tense, ready for anything that might transpire.
Frank held his right hand carelessly in his pocket as he moved slowly forward behind Jack. The long line of men were passing through the door, but there were still many more behind.
A close observer now would have seen the right side of Frank’s great coat rise slowly. The hand within was pulling it up. Suddenly it flashed up still more suddenly and there came a sharp report. There was a sound of crashing glass and the room was immediately plunged into darkness.
Through his overcoat, Frank had shot out the light!
At the moment he had pressed the trigger Frank had reached forth his left hand and clasped Jack by the arm. Then he leaped in the direction of the door dragging Jack after him.
“Quick!” he cried.