Nick did not want to make noise enough to attract outside attention. But he soon realized that this was something he could not prevent—the more so as Ched Ramar seemed desirous of causing as much disturbance as possible.
A banging at the door explained why Ched Ramar had made as much noise as he could.
“Now, Mr. Nicholas Carter,” hissed the tall Indian, “I[Pg 38] think you will find you have stepped into a trap. I have two men outside that door who will do anything they are commanded, and never speak of it afterward. You have been in countries where men are slaves to other men, I know. You shall see what my men will do for me.”
During this speech, which was delivered jerkily, as the two struggled for possession of the scimitar, the banging at the door increased in violence. Chick and Patsy were against it on the inside, trying to prevent its being battered down.
“Chick!” called Nick. “Come here!”
Chick looked over his shoulder.
“If I leave this door, Patsy can’t hold it by himself. It takes all we can both do to hold those fellows back.”
“Never mind!” returned Nick. “Come here!”
As Chick came toward the two powerful fighters, Ched Ramar laughed derisively.
“The door will fall,” he shouted. “When it does, you will wish you were out of this place. I’m glad you are here. It is fortunate.”