Jack had seen the movement, but he was so surprised that he seemed to be rooted to the spot. He was unable to move.
But there had been another close witness of the struggle and the quick action of this watcher alone saved Jack’s life.
Frank had sprung suddenly forward and succeeded in knocking up the Russian’s arm at the very moment his finger tightened on the trigger.
Jack therefore emerged from the cloud of smoke unharmed.
Now Frank had grappled with the officer and was seeking to wrest the revolver from his hand. But the lad was no match for the big Russian. Jack sprang forward just in time to lend a helping hand and General Surgoff was subdued without much trouble.
“Now,” said General Burgoff to the deposed officer, “I shall have the pleasure of informing the Czar that you attempted to assassinate me. Do you realize what that will mean?”
General Surgoff made no reply, though he glared at the other angrily.
“By the way, General,” said Jack, stepping forward at that moment, “you haven’t forgotten the promise you made me, have you?”
General Burgoff smiled.
“No danger,” he returned. “I shall be an interested witness.”