“It’s a conspiracy to rob the place,” cried Geary. “Throw them out and call the police.”
But the employees had had enough of trying to throw the two men out of the place, and they held back.
Geary began pounding on the floor of the room.
“That’s a signal,” whispered Nick, to the seeming mechanic. “If a door leading into the cellar is opened now, get down there, if you can, while I amuse the people up here.”
“All right,” replied Chick, “but you ought to be getting out before long. They’ll suspect it’s a scheme.”
Gilmore arose from the floor, brushing milk, butter and sugar from his clothing, and started for the door.
“This is no chance fight,” he shouted. “These men came here on purpose to get up a row.”
“You lie,” said Chick, coolly, “one of your toughs tried to rob me, and this gentleman came to my assistance.”
Before Gilmore could reply a back door was opened, and three hard-looking men rushed into the room.
“There come the men who are putting in the electric-drill machinery,” whispered Nick. “Now, look out for hot work.”