"I hope so; but you must accompany me, and submit to a search. If my suspicions are unfounded, I will apologize."
"Hands off, fellow! I believe you intend to rob me. I will give you into custody."
The detective put a whistle to his mouth, and his summons brought a policeman.
"Take this man into custody," he said.
"This is an outrage!" exclaimed Talbot; but he was very pale.
"You will be searched at the station-house, Mr. Talbot," said the detective. "I hope nothing will be found to criminate you. If not, you shall go free."
Talbot, with a swift motion, drew something from his pocket, and hurled it into the darkness. But he was observed.
The detective darted after it, and brought it back.
"This is what I wanted," he said. "Policeman, you will bear witness that it was in Mr. Talbot's possession. I fear we shall have to detain you a considerable time, sir."