The shack had but one exit, the door which was blocked by the tramp. Dan and Brad knew they were in a spot. Their best bet was to stall for time, hoping that the other Cubs would circle in from the rear and come to their aid.
“Hand over that box!” the tramp ordered.
“No!” Dan defied him.
“You’ll give it up or I’ll break every bone in your body!”
“You stole the money from the church—or rather from Mr. Hatfield’s place!” Dan accused. “It’s not your box!”
“Hand it over!” the tramp ordered again, moving a step closer. He reached his hand into his pocket as if for a weapon.
“Better do it, Dan,” Brad advised quietly.
Even then the boy was reluctant to relinquish the box.
Appraising his chances, he gazed beyond the tramp. Through the open door he could see Chips and Midge moving in closer.
A daring plan flashed into his mind. But should he risk trying it? The chances were about even that he would fail.