Tom Smith heard the alarm in the voice, and rejoiced. It gave him
the greatest pleasure always to know that he inspired fear in anyone.

"Open the door. It's me, Tom Smith, and I've come after that dog of
mine that you've stole!"

No answer came, nor was the door opened.

"Open the door, I say, or I'll fetch the police for you! pack of
thieves that you are!"

The threat of the police would have made Huldah smile, if she had not
been in such a state of terror for herself, and even more so for
Dick. She knew that her "uncle" would not go within a mile of a
policeman if he could help it. Indeed, she longed and prayed for a
policeman to come along then, that she might appeal to him for
protection.

Unfortunately for them, though, not even a bolt stood between them
and their enemy, and before Huldah could step forward to shoot it, or
turn the key, the latch was raised, and Tom Smith was in the kitchen.
With one well-aimed kick he sent Dick into the furthest corner, and
with equally sure aim he seized Huldah by the wrist. "Now, you come
along of me, and no nonsense, do you hear? A fine dance you've led
me and your poor aunt! You deserves a good hiding, both of 'ee, and
I ain't sure but what you'll get it yet."

"Let her alone," gasped Mrs. Perry, "let her go--she isn't yours.
You've no--right--to her." Her face was grey white, her heart seemed