Dan looked out of the corner of his eye, to see the detective close at hand. This gave him courage, for he recognized that the villain was only speaking the truth, and he did not wish to run any unnecessary risk. He gave a nod, which brought the detective nearer, and then slipped to one side, calling:
"Stop thief!"
The ruffian made a dash for him, his face distorted with rage, but his arm was grasped as by an iron vise.
"Not so fast, Jack Benton!" exclaimed the detective, and he signaled to a policeman. "You are up to your old tricks again, as I expected."
"Who are you?" demanded Jack, angrily.
"A detective."
"The devil!" ejaculated the foiled burglar. "I have taken nothing," he added, sullenly.
"That isn't your fault. I heard you threatening the boy, unless he gave up the money in his possession. Take him away, officer. I will appear against him."
"Thank you, sir," said Dan, gratefully.