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Consequently, he held fast to his grip as he followed Hiram out of the car, this mode of procedure having all been settled upon beforehand. It gave Rob a chance to keep his eagle eye on the figure of Hiram; and so long as he was able to do that he did not believe the other could be spirited away, or his pocket picked.
Look out for getting in a crush, Hiram, Rob whispered in the others ear as they passed along the narrow corridor.
They went out ahead of us, Rob, Hiram informed him, as he turned his head.
Yes, I know that, but were going to run up against those men again before we are out of this scrape, the scout leader prophesied.
Well, Im awful glad were in at last. That was a long trip, and Im tired of the old car, said the one in the lead. Thank goodness well soon be landed in San Francisco, where my business can be settled, one way or the other.
I see them, Rob! announced Andy, just then.
Yes, and theyre waiting for us, just as I thought, ventured Rob. Well push straight on to where we can get a carriage, and then leave them in the lurch. Above all, nobody must stop to talk; keep walking, and stick together!
Thats understood, Rob! came from Hiram; while Andy in the rear gave a grunt as if to signify that he had it all fixed in his mind.
There was a lively scene as friends rushed this way and that to find those for whom they were waiting; and as the three scouts walked steadily along in line, headed for the exit where the carriages were to be found, the two men suddenly appeared alongside them.
Sorry to bother you young fellows, said the tall man, in a low but commanding voice, but we are United States marshals, and you must consider yourselves bound to come with us, for you are under arrest!
CHAPTER IX TURNING THE TABLES ON TWO ROGUES
Whew! this is a warm reception to California for a fact! burst out Andy, in considerable consternation, as he dropped his bundles, and stood there staring at the two mysterious men.
Rob, too, was somewhat staggered at the abrupt accusation, though he quickly rallied his senses, and found his tongue.
Wheres your warrant for doing this? he demanded of the shorter man, who immediately flipped back his coat to disclose some sort of nickel badge pinned to his vest, not giving Rob enough time to make it out.
We dont need any warrant, being in the service of the Government, this worthy assured him in as gruff a tone as possible.
But who do you take us for, and what are we accused of doing? asked Rob, continuing to keep a firm grip on his suitcase through it all, though he allowed his eyes to rove around in search of a policeman.
Never mind about that, my boy; you will find it all out after we have arraigned you before the United States Commissioner. Weve been watching your party for some time, and believe weve bagged the right birds. Now, for your sake, we dont want to make a scene, so well just lock arms with you, and pass out of the station that way to take a vehicle. If you know whats good for you, pay no attention to any one; and if you attempt to escape, remember, were prepared to shoot.
The tall man at that eagerly thrust a hand through the left arm of Hiram, who made no resistance. Rob, even in that exciting moment, noticed that he had managed to get on the side nearest the pocket where the inventor had placed his valuable papers, now snugly reposing on Robs person. It was very significant, to say the least; and Rob began immediately to discover what Hiram would have called the nigger in the woodpile.
Come on, then, boys, said Rob, were in for it, and theres no need of kicking up any disturbance. Well go before the Commissioner and prove our innocence.
Thats right sensible of you, young fellow! declared the shorter man, as he took hold of Robs arm and escorted him along.
Other people were pushing past, but were so busy with their own affairs that they did not seem to pay any attention to the little drama being enacted on the station platform.
A minute later and Rob believed the time had come to act.
Not
that way, son; were meaning to take a carriage over here, said the tall man, designating the opposite direction to that in which Rob had turned.
Please yourselves, gentlemen, said Rob, suddenly displaying quite a different manner. Weve decided that we want to go out this way; and that policeman standing there has his eye on us this very minute. I think I had better call him over and ask him to get you to show your colors.
Thats the stuff! said Andy, recklessly, all the pent-up indignation that had been boiling within him breaking loose.
Had a bomb fallen near them, the two men could not have shown more concern. They must have realized that their shrewd little game had been called.
Guess weve made a mistake about this business, McGuire! said the short man, hastily looking around him as though desirous of discovering a good opening for flight.
Seems that way to me, Colonel; and well say good-by to you, boys!
Why, theyve gone! cried Andy, as though he could hardly believe his eyes.