From that moment, however, the name of neither criminal was once
mentioned; and Nick was compelled to infer that Venner might indeed be
entirely ignorant of their true identity and knavish character.

The eyes of all were upon the detective, as he stood swaying slightly
on the floor; and Cervera sharply demanded, with a threatening frown:

"Well, you vile miscreant, what can you say for yourself?"

"Me?" queried Nick, pretending to pull himself together. "Nothing at
all."

"I guess that's right."

"What should I say? Why have you got me here, and tied up in this
fashion?"

"You'll soon find out," cried Cervera, with vicious asperity. "What were
you doing out back of my house?"

"Nothing much," Nick evasively growled, waiting to learn which way the
cat was about to jump.

"Nothing much!" sneered Cervera. "You'll find that will not go down with
us."

"I was looking for a chance to sleep in your stable," muttered Nick.

"You lie, you dog!" cried Kilgore, fiercely. "You were at the back
window."