"Might as well save your wind, young fellow!" the lads heard a familiar voice say. "You'll need it all before you get out of this!"
Then, since answer was evidently impossible, the voice went on:
"You fellows are so good at getting out of tight-places, let's see you get out of this! You cooled the hot box, saved your hangar from burning, slipped away from Havre and got out of the barn in the country, but you did it only because you had help or wheedled some one into your way of thinking. This is different. You get no help here!
"You are in the cellar of an old warehouse that has been abandoned because the structure burned. On one side is the river Seine; on the other is a street blocked by debris from the ruined warehouse. No one ever visits this locality, so you'll have lots of time to think it over. Next time, don't try to interfere with my plans! Do you understand?"
In despair the boys lay helpless and listened to their informant as he closed a heavy door. This was barred on the outside and heavy materials were thrown against it. Then silence reigned.
For a long time the lads lay listening for sounds that would indicate the presence of others. A muffled splash of water now and again was the only indication of movement that reached their ears.
Presently a movement showed that one of the boys was shifting his position. A sudden gasp followed by a violent exhalation of breath showed that a struggle was taking place. A tearing of cloth was heard.
"Whoo!" gasped Jimmie. "That was a tough job!"
"Any of you fellows got loose yet?" the lad continued.
For obvious reasons no answer greeted his question.