The three entered the warehouse where they switched on a bright electric light. Carefully he examined the blindman’s hand.
“It’s only a little sliver,” he said. “Hardly worth bothering about. Here, I’ll get it out in a jiffy.”
With his knife he removed the tiny piece of wood.
Dan, who stood where he could see the canvas which covered the crate of furs, thought he could hear the indistinct sound of someone sawing wood. But he could see no one.
Then the explanation dawned upon him! Hours before, a boat had slipped in beneath the dock, lying in wait for this moment. Now the river pirates boldly were carving through the dock with steel braces, bits and saws!
Undoubtedly the blindman himself had given the go-ahead signal by tapping with his cane.
“Those crooks will have the box through the hole and into their boat before Hank catches on!” he thought.
Dan sidled toward the door. Rudy growled and barred his way.
Outside the warehouse, Eddie lounged against a wall, smoking a cigarette. All escape was cut off. Even if he could let Hank know what was happening, Dan knew it was too late to prevent the theft.
“Well, Dan, how did you do in the swimming meet tonight?” Hank asked, making conversation. “Give us a full account.”