For the moment Robert was dumfounded, for he had not dreamed that this pleasant stranger was about to attack him.
"Do you hear? Give me that money," repeated Huskin, and tightened his grip.
"Let me go!" returned Robert. "Would you rob me?"
"I want that money you drew out of the post-office. And I want it instantly."
"I won't give you a cent," cried Robert, and began to struggle with all the strength at his command.
Although but a boy, he was strong, and soon it looked as if he might break away in spite of all the sharper could do to hold him. Seeing this, Huskin whistled loudly three times,—a signal that Andy Cross must join him at once.
The signal had scarcely come to an end when Andy Cross pushed his way into the hallway.
"Quick—hold him!" shouted Jim Huskin. "He's a regular eel."
"I've got him," answered Andy Cross, and caught Robert from behind, and soon his bony fingers were pressing themselves directly into the poor youth's windpipe, so that it looked as if Robert would be choked to death.