"You robbed the safe," went on Hardwick. "You know you are guilty."
"I know no such thing," returned Hal, in a peculiar, strained tone of voice. "But there is one thing I do know."
"And what is that?" asked Mr. Sumner, eagerly.
"I know Mr. Hardwick contemplated robbing that safe, and I feel certain in my mind that he is the one who did it."
Hal had hardly spoken before the book-keeper sprang upon him, forcing him over backward against the safe door.
"I'm the thief, am I?" he cried in Hal's ear. "Take that back, or I'll make you!"
CHAPTER IV.
HAL STANDS UP FOR HIMSELF.
Hal now found himself in a tight situation. Felix Hardwick had him by the throat, and was slowly but surely choking him.