inted."

"And what did he learn?"

"I am not sure he really followed, and, of course, I don't know how much
he learned."

"Too bad! Did you come face to face with the man?"

"I did, but he got away from us."

"Who do you mean--was Ferris with you?"

"Yes. He thought he recognized the man as one who followed him to the
printing office."

"I see. We must be careful, Hardwick, very careful."

"If it hadn't been for that Carson it would be all right," growled the
ex-book-keeper. "I would like to wring that boy's neck."

"So would I. But what has become of him? He was not at the office this
morning when I was there."

"I don't know. He boarded with Ferris' aunt, but he has left there,
too."

"That's queer."

"I have an idea he isn't so much of a boy as we think," said Hardwick,
with a shake of his head.

"What do you mean?"

"I believe if he isn't a regular detective, he is next door to it, and
was hired by Sumner to spot me. That scene in the office when I accused
him was a put-up job on his part and Sumner's. See how easily Sumner
sided with him in every instance."

"By Jove! you may be right," cried Allen. "We must be more than careful,
or----"

Hal did not catch the words that followed, for the door of the office
opened and a slouching figure entered. It was Tommy Macklin.

Veiling his astonishment as best he could, Hal approached the tough.

"What is it?" he asked, briefly.

"Is der boss in?" asked Macklin.

"Do you mean Mr. Allen or Mr. Parsons?" asked Hal, although he knew very
well.

"Mr. Allen."

"I will see. What name?"

"Wot's dat?"

"What is your name?"

"Me name ain't got nothin' ter do wid it. Tell him a gent from der east
side wants ter talk ter him a few minits."

"I will."

Hal rapped on the door. It was quickly opened by Mr. Allen.

"Here is a man wants to see you, sir," said Hal. "He says he's from the
east side, and won't give any name."

Allen looked out toward Macklin. He looked disturbed when he recognized
the tough.

"Step this way," he called out, and Macklin entered the office.

"Now, what brings you?" demanded Allen, as soon as the door was shut.

Instead of replying, Macklin looked at Hardwick, who had taken off part
of his disguise.

"Wot! You here?" he faltered.

"Yes, Tommy, you didn't expect it, did you?" returned Hardwick, with a
short laugh.

"No, I didn't."

"What brought you?"

"I want money," said the tough, coming forward and putting