Nick Carter had turned only the nearest corner after leaving the quarters of the loan company, when he was overtaken by Chick, who, in reality, had been there only to note what followed Nick’s visit with Waldmere, and to watch any move that either Garland or Hart might afterward make.
It so happened, however, owing to an unexpected opportunity afforded Chick, that their own respective designs were reversed.
“Well, what was doing?” Nick immediately questioned, when Chick hastened across the street and joined him. “I saw Hart talking to you through the window.
Chick hastily informed him, and Nick’s face underwent a decided change.
“That does settle it,” said he. “We have given them a fright, and now have them on the run. It’s dollars to fried rings, now, that my suspicions are correct. It is necessary only to clinch them and nail all of the culprits involved in the game.”
“What game?” asked Lord Waldmere curiously. “I’m jolly well mystified by this. Why——”
“Don’t question,” Nick interrupted. “Be patient, Waldmere, until I have got in my work. I then will answer all the questions you care to ask.”
“But, hang it, old top, I——”
“You must do what I say,” Nick cut in. “Time never was more valuable. One minute’s delay may queer all of my work.”
“What next?” Chick tersely asked, when Waldmere subsided.