"Let the matter drop now."
The boy turned quickly, and looking steadily into Shock's face, began in a quiet, even voice, "Mr.—ah—"
"Macgregor," supplied Shock.
"Mr. Macgregor, you are a stranger. In this country in a matter of this kind we never allow interference."
"And yet," said Shock in a voice equally quiet, "interference is not unwelcome at times."
"What you say is quite true," replied the boy, "and, as I have said, I am not ungrateful for your timely assistance."
"Oh, I was thinking of Ike," said Shock hurriedly.
"But surely you will let this matter drop now."
"Drop!" roared the Inspector. "Blank your impudence! He has called me a thief, and he has slapped my face while doing my duty. I will have the lot of you arrested for interference with justice. And as for you, Stanton, we shall settle this again."
So saying, the Inspector made for the door. At the door Ike still stood on guard.