"Not the celebrated detective?" cried Pylotte, with feigned amazement.
"Precisely."
"That's quite sufficient, Mr. Carter!" the Frenchman now cried, with much bowing and scraping. "I'll go with you when and where you wish. If any man can run down these swindling ruffians, sir, you certainly are the man."
"Thanks," said Nick, dryly. "I'll take you home with me for the night."
CHAPTER XVII.
THE GAME UNCOVERED.
The following morning.
The clock in Nick Carter's library was striking nine.
Nick and Chick were seated at one side of the table, and Jean Pylotte occupied a chair at the opposite side.