The intruder had been standing in front of the picture; the dim light and Al's preoccupation had conspired to render the boy unconscious of his presence.
"Who are you?" our hero exclaimed, as the man approached him.
The next moment he recognized the fellow, and added in a startled voice:
"Farley!"
"Yes," said the ex-advance agent, "it's Farley, the man you knocked out. You're a little surprised to see me, aren't you?"
"What do you want?" demanded the boy.
"I'll show you what I want."
And he darted between Al and the door.
"Get out of my way!" the lad exclaimed, attempting to push him aside.
But Farley seized him by the throat and forced him to the floor.