The latter did not know exactly how to act under the circumstances, the detective was so cool and acted so strangely.
Our hero, however, knew what he was up to well enough, and, when within a few feet of the smuggler, he suddenly threw himself forward and grappled with the ruffian.
A struggle followed. Both were powerful men, but the detective was the most active and the coolest, and better prepared to take advantage of all chances.
Exerting himself to almost superhuman efforts, he forced the ruffian back to a great bowlder, and threw him down with such force that the man lost consciousness.
Half an hour passed.
The man lay silent and motionless like one dead, and no one came to the rescue.
The detective moved stealthily from his hiding-place to the verge of the bluff and glanced over to the spot where the "Nancy" had been riding at anchor. The boat had disappeared.
A moment Vance stood and considered. He knew that he was walking upon dangerous ground. He had received an intimation of the desperateness of the gang. After a review of the situation he walked back to where the smuggler whom he had worsted lay. The man was just beginning to show signs of returning consciousness.
"I reckon I'll render you harmless for the balance of the night," muttered the detective, and he bound the man hand and foot.
The man meantime revived, and called for water.