A sound attracted his attention. He turned suddenly to see a man coming from behind him. The fellow had been standing close to a building; Clyde had been too intent to observe him.
The newspaperman warded off a hand that was just about to seize his throat. Dodging, he caught his opponent’s arm and gave it a jujutsu twist. He uttered a shout of elation as the man nearly lost his footing.
Then the situation turned suddenly. The men came closer together, and Clyde caught a glimpse of his foe’s right hand as it swung toward him. He realized — too late — that the man had a blackjack. The brutal weapon struck the back of Clyde’s head. He crumpled to the sidewalk.
A taxicab stopped as the victor called to the driver.
“Help me get my friend in,” said the man on the sidewalk. “He’s been drinking too much bum booze—”
As the driver alighted, the man suddenly turned and ran down the street. The taxi driver stood in astonishment until he noticed a policeman approaching from the opposite direction.
The blue-coat drew a revolver and fired two wild shots as the fleeing man turned the corner.
He pocketed his gun with an angry gesture. Another man came running up and pointed to the form of Burke.
“That’s one of them,” he exclaimed, to the officer. “I saw them across the street. I think the other bird was trying to hold up this guy.”
“Grab ahold,” ordered the policeman.