“I hope the Bay will kick his head off,” thought Nick, as the man approached the head of the stall.
“Now, gentlemen,” spoke a voice from out the darkness, “I have the drop on you, and if you make a move until I say the word I’ll blow your brains out.”
Nick spoke the last word in a loud tone of voice, and in response to the signal the door swung open and a bright light flashed into the place.
Behind the light was an officer’s badge, and at the right of the badge was a steady arm carrying a cocked revolver.[{50}]
Before the two culprits could recover from their astonishment or lift a hand, the cool voice in the darkness continued:
“You see how it is, gentlemen, two men have the drop on you, so you may as well give in.”
“Hold steady there, Mr. Officer, while I slip on the bracelets.”
Almost before the men could realize their true position, they were handcuffed and helpless.
“It’s just this way,” said Nick, still keeping in the shadow, “nothing is to be said about your attempt to lame Denver Bay.”
“What are we arrested for, then?” gasped Brower.