In less time than it takes to tell it Pomp was overpowered.
The darky was held firmly, while one of the greasers searched for a rope.
Finding it, Pomp was securely bound. The greasers seemed more than excited over their capture.
They jabbered and gesticulated in a very excited manner.
Poor Pomp was beside himself with chagrin and desperation.
“Sakes alibe!” he muttered, despairingly. “Whatebber will Marse Frank an’ de oders say when dey come back an’ don’ fin’ de Steam Man here any more?”
The ten greasers crowded about the Steam Man and began to examine it.
It was evident that they did not know how it worked for they did not attempt to operate it.
Pomp volunteered no information. At opportune moments he writhed in his bonds trying to break them.
The greasers in vain tried to discover the method of operating the Steam Man.