“Sh-h-h!” exclaimed Bob. His face became harsh and cruel. He looked quickly at Betty and realized instantly that she knew what had happened to Hodgson. In fact, the girl’s accusing eyes were already upon him, and she began to voice her condemnation.
“You killed Hodgson?” Betty’s question came clear. The thought that the old man had been murdered had given her the strength of indignation.
“Yes,” said Bob coldly, “I killed Hodgson. You’ve found it out — and it means the end for you. You’ve seen too much — or we might have let you out. It’s too late now.”
He turned to his companions. “We’ve got to get rid of her, boys. That’s all.”
CLINK chuckled harshly. His eyes were gleaming as he moved forward, intent upon choking the helpless girl. A wild, murderous look had come over his face.
Betty wanted to scream. She could only gasp. Then Bob intervened. He threw out an arm and thrust Clink back.
Bob pressed one hand upon Betty’s mouth. With the other, he ripped away the broad collar of her gown. Quickly and efficiently, he forced the cloth into the girl’s mouth to serve as an effective gag.
“Lend a hand, Briggs,” he ordered. “We’ll do two jobs at once. Why waste time?”
Betty was raised to her feet. At Bob’s command, the big man lifted the helpless girl. As Bob pointed ahead, Betty divined the fate that he intended for her.
“Into the vault!” were Bob’s words.