While Bob and his uncle went about the task of giving first aid to Rap and Hamsa, the sheriff went down to the old wharf to inspect the boats.
When he returned, the bandaging was done, for neither wound was serious.
“We can start any time you want to,” he informed the federal men.
“Take these fellows down. We’ll be along shortly,” replied Merritt Hughes, and when Hamsa and his allies had been led away by the sheriff, he sat down on one side of the table and motioned for Bob to take a seat opposite him.
“Let’s hear your side of the story, Bob,” said his uncle as he sat down, massaging the red marks which the tightly tied ropes had made on his hands.
Chapter XXXVI
UNTANGLING THE WEB
★
It was a strange setting, the rays from the kerosene lamp on the table throwing a soft glow over the diamonds which were still heaped on the black velvet.
Bob was anxious to tell his own story, but first he wanted to know about his uncle.
“Sure you’re all right?” he asked.
“Oh, my arms and legs are still a little numb and I can’t talk any too well, but I’m coming around fast now.”