"I'm a baggage-smasher," answered Ben. "I got this from a man that came by the Philadelphia train."
"Where is he?"
"I guess he's behind somewheres."
"Where are you carrying the valise?"
"Seems to me you want to know a good deal," said Ben, undecided as to the right of the other to ask so many questions.
"I'll let you into a secret, my lad; but you must keep the secret. That valise is pretty heavy, isn't it?"
"I'll bet it is."
"To the best of my information, the man who employed you is a noted burglar, and this valise contains his tools. I am a detective, and am on his track. I received a telegram an hour ago from Philadelphia, informing me that he was on his way. I got down to the wharf a little too late. Now tell me where you are to carry this;" and the detective pointed to the valise.
"I am to meet the gentleman at the corner of Broome Street and the Bowery," said Ben.
"Very well. Go ahead and meet him."