The conversation was continued for some time, and the death of old Tom Pearce was discussed in a sort of left hand manner; nothing definite was disclosed, but the detective was led to believe that a little open play on his part might give him a chance to pick up a few facts.
Spencer Vance was afraid of discovery, and was about moving from his hiding place when he became aware of the fact that he had been seen.
A great excitement immediately followed. He stepped out from his hiding-place, and was at once surrounded by a dozen armed men.
The detective as usual, was cool and easy, and, when an opportunity offered, demanded:
"Is there a man in your company named Rigby?"
Silence followed the detective's question. He received no immediate answer, and he once more called out:
"Is there a man in your midst named Rigby?"
The detective spoke in broken English. Rigby answered himself by asking:
"What do you want of Rigby?"
"Is there such a man here?"