any time somebody is liable to--to propose throwing off the--the limit,
and then somebody is going to get--hurt. If you are--not in it, why you
won't be in any--danger."

There was a silence. The four youths looked at the visitor and then at
each other.

What did it mean?

If he was playing them for "suckers," surely he was doing it in a queer
manner.

"Thank you," said Frank, stiffly. "You are kind!"

"More than kind!" muttered Diamond.

"Don't mention it," said the little man, trying to look pleasant, but
making a dismal failure. "I--I dont' like to see respectable young men
caught in a--trap. That's all. Thought I'd tell you. Didn't know that
you would--thank me. Took my chances on that. Well, I think I'll--be
going."

He turned, falteringly, seemed about to say something more, opened the
door part way, hesitated, then said "good-day," and went out.




CHAPTER VI.