“Not so fast, my friend,” cried the boy.

Bidwell started back.

“What, you!” he exclaimed.

“Exactly, Bidwell, and I want you.”

Bidwell turned and darted across the street. Bob lost no time in following.

Reaching the other side of the thoroughfare, the sneak-thief made off as fast as his long legs would permit.

He was a good runner, and would no doubt have gotten away had not a fortunate accident occurred.

Turning a corner Bidwell ran full-tilt into a stout man who was walking leisurely along, carrying a basket on his arm.

Down went the stout man, with Bidwell on top of him, while the basket with its contents flew in all directions.

“Who—what?” the stout man spluttered.