Would this particular fellow tell of this particular rascally exploit?
Shadow hoped so.
As time passed by, however, without one word being said, the mysterious detective began to grow impatient, since the particular thing about which he wished to learn was not mentioned.
However, he paid strict attention to the many stories of rascality which they told. The knowledge thus derived might be of use some time.
More than once the secret listener shuddered on hearing the tales that were told.
It seemed to him as if all the crimes that were ever committed could not sum up as large a total as these men boasted of having committed.
And, at the moment when his cheeks were paling over some horrid relation, he could hear the whole gang joining in a hearty laugh.
That they were able to laugh over descriptions of bloodshed and death was ample evidence of the manner of men they were, and Shadow more fully realized the peril which surrounded him so long as he should remain in the old sugar-house.
"That's the list of the things I've done, and never been nabbed yet," said one, as he finished a story of crime.
"You've heard all my exploits," said another.