The train was just approaching Stamford, and from the window in the section which he occupied Mr. Barnes was watching the sun glowing red over the hilltops, when he heard approaching him the guard who had assisted him to jump aboard the night before. The man was making mysterious gestures, from which Mr. Barnes understood that he was wanted. He arose and followed the porter to the smoking-room.
"I think you called yourself Barnes," said the man, "as you jumped aboard last night."
"Yes, what of it?"
"Are you Mr. Barnes the detective?"
"Why do you ask?"
"Because, if you are, the conductor wants to see you. There was a big robbery committed on the train during the night."
"The devil!"
"Exactly, but will you come into the next coach?"
"Wait a minute." Mr. Barnes went back into the main part of the coach and tip-toed towards number eight. Gently moving the curtains, he peeped in and looked long and earnestly. He saw two men undoubtedly sleeping soundly. Satisfied therefore that he could leave his watch for a brief period, he followed the porter into the next coach, where he found the conductor waiting for him in the smoking-room.
"You are Mr. Barnes the detective?" asked the conductor. Mr. Barnes assented.