Knowing nothing of the presence of the boys he was under the impression that the old man had made the attack. He saw Jacob Winter looking as much amazed as he felt himself. Then observing the two boys, he quickly comprehended what had taken place.
“Why you young cubs!” he cried, his face looking fiercer and more threatening, “you must be crazy. I’ll kill ye both.”
He sprang towards Albert Graham, for it was Albert who held the box of treasure, and was about to make an attack upon him. But he failed to take account of Ben, who was still armed with the dangerous spade.
Now Ben’s blood was up, and he was ready to carry on hostilities. He had no intention of deserting his young comrade.
He rushed up and dealt the tramp another blow, heavier than the first, that literally laid him out. He sank to the ground stunned, and temporarily lost consciousness.
“Now, Mr. Winter,” said Ben, who seemed naturally to take command, “take the box and go to the house as quick as you can. I have stunned the robber, but he’ll come to in a short time and then we shall be in danger. Albert, come with us.”
Jacob Winter said nothing, but it was clear that he considered the advice good. He grasped the box and started for home on a half run, followed by the two boys. Not a word was said till they reached the farmyard.
Then as he stopped to wipe the perspiration from his face, he ejaculated, “Boys, this is terrible.”
“So it is,” said Ben, “but we’ve saved the money.”
“Do you think you—you killed him?” asked Jacob, with a shudder.