A great excitement immediately followed. He stepped out from
his hiding-place, and was at once surrounded by a dozen armed
men.
The detective as usual, was cool and easy, and, when an
opportunity offered, demanded:
"Is there a man in your company named Rigby?"
Silence followed the detective's question. He received no
immediate answer, and he once more called out:
"Is there a man in your midst named Rigby?"
The detective spoke in broken English. Rigby answered himself
by asking:
"What do you want of Rigby?"
"Is there such a man here?"
"If there is, what difference does it make to you?"
"I have a message for him."
"A message?"
"Yes."
"Who from?"
"I'll tell Rigby."
"See here, my man, don't you go independent, or you will get
into trouble."
"I can't get into any trouble if Rigby is around."
"My name is Rigby."
"Can I see you alone?"
"Anything you have to say can be spoken right out; we are all
one company here."
"That would not be according to instructions."
Rigby really wanted to talk alone with the man, but did not
wish to make it so appear.
"What do you say, boys, shall I let him see me alone?"
"Certainly," came the answer.
"Come along, my friend," commanded Rigby.
The detective followed the proprietor of the tavern inside the
house, and was led to a rear room.
"Now what have you got to say?"
"You are Rigby!"
"Yes, I am Rigby."
"I must not make a mistake."
"You are not making a mistake.
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