Barney knew this, and stepped quickly to the keyboard.
It was a neat little trap which worked well. He pressed one of the electric keys.
The current from the dynamos shot into the cogs and thence into the bar instantly. The effect was thrilling.
The three villains clung to the bar yelling and writhing in pain. They were unable to let go.
Too late Vane saw the ruse, and fierce curses broke from his lips.
But Barney quickly put a stop to them. He shocked the villains into insensibility. All three hung limply from the bar.
Meanwhile Pomp had liberated Harding, and both came rushing into the engine-room.
“Bejabbers, I’ve got the three av thim!” cried Barney, triumphantly. “Shure, luck is wid us this trip.”
It was but a moment’s work to bind the three villains securely.
Then the question arose: