The lad hung around the hotel until after midnight, when he saw the man who had made the proposition come forth. He followed him and located him at one of the most fashionable hotels in New York. He actually followed him into the hotel and located the man in his room. He had great luck in escaping observation, for he was such a nimble little “cuss” he was sure to succeed where many would have failed.
He succeeded, as stated, in following the man to his room, but when it came to making his way again to the street, he failed. He was stealing along when suddenly he felt himself in a strong grasp. Ike was like an eel, as nimble as a fish, but he thought it better to resort to stratagem to escape rather than try to wrench himself away.
It was the night watchman who had seized him, and who asked:
“What are you doing here?”
“I got in here by a mistake. I am a stranger and I got in the wrong hotel.”
“That won’t do; you are a thief and I shall take you down to the office, and have you taken in. I’ve been on the lookout for you.”
“I can prove my innocence,” said Ike.
“Oh, you can, eh?”
“I can.”
“You will have a chance, little sly thief. Yes, you shall have a chance, but I’ve been on the ‘lay’ for you all the same.”