But at this instant there was a sound of feet at the entrance and the little man with the squint reappeared, accompanied by a gorgeous creature in uniform and cocked hat. The two stepped up to Kearns and the Professor, while the dark man still maintained his position at the door.
“Come!” said the man in uniform curtly.
“Why—what do you mean?” exclaimed Kearns.
“You are under arrest—both!” said the man with the squint.
“Arrest!” exclaimed the Professor excitedly.
“Arrest!” cried Kearns angrily. “Why, what the devil do you mean, sir? I am Thomas Kearns, of New York, and I’ll make it precious hot for you if you attempt any pleasantries with me!”
The little man regarded the speaker with an evil and contemptuous leer.
“I don’t care who you be,” he said. “I arrest you both.”
“For what?” interposed the Professor.
“Sedition,” said the little man.