"In a few days or in a few hours possibly," said Ike.

The detective and the ventriloquist separated, and as Ike and Jack walked away the former said:

"Jack, we've got a big job on hand. Let's walk down and take a look at the old miser's house, for to-night we may wish to play burglar."

"What do you mean?"

"I am going to take great chances. I am going to get into that house."

"Sneak in?"

"Yes."

"You will get into a scrape, I fear."

"Eh, Jack, do you fear? I did not think you knew what fear meant."

Jack laughed and said: