“I dare say you are right, my boy,” nodded the “Rocket’s” owner. “You did best, after all, no doubt. I must confess myself puzzled, though. Your descriptions of the two men don’t fit any possible enemies that I can call to mind.”
“They were most likely agents, acting for someone else, don’t you think, Mr. Delavan?”
“Undoubtedly, captain.”
“Frank,” broke in Eben Moddridge, in a shaking voice, as he halted, looking the picture of nervous breakdown, “you must engage detectives instantly.”
“Nonsense, Eben,” retorted his friend.
“Or at least, two or three strong, daring men who will remain with you, to defend you against any possible attack.”
Mr. Delavan laughed heartily.
“Eben,” he demanded, “what on earth ails you?”
“Oh, I am so nervous!” moaned the other. “I see dangers, horrors, ahead of us!”