Monte went expeditiously through all the pockets, and even examined the linings. Just a little exhibition of the honor that obtains among thieves: Monte Jerome knew that his leadership depended on his ability to command his companions’ unwilling respect, and he was taking no chances.
“I got a hunch Doc is thinking of ditching the gang, and going it for himself,” Monte murmured as he returned toward the front room. “If he thinks—”
The ’phone bell rang suddenly, and the man on duty crossed to the instrument.
“Yes?” he said.... “Oh, hello, Billy.... What’s that—Hell’s bells! Got away! Get busy and find him—”
The voice of the Strangler came to him over the wire.
“Keep your shirt on, Chief!” it commanded. “You better come down here and see for yourself what we was up against!”
Two minutes later Monte was shaking Louie Martin awake.
“Come to life!” Monte grated. “The Count has made his getaway! You get into your clothes and tend ’phone! This is one hell of a mess!”
Martin climbed sluggishly and unwillingly out of bed.
“You’ve been running things,” he snarled. “If you’ve got ’em in a mess, it’s no one’s fault but your own!”