The sound was heard by the stranger, who was about one hundred feet
in advance, and he turned quickly.
"Who's there?" he asked sharply.
Frank did not answer.
"Who's there?" the man inquired again, and there was menace in his tones.
Frank crouched down to get in the shadow of a big tree.
"I know someone is following me," the man went on, in a sharp voice.
"Whoever it is I warn him he had better come no further. If it's money
you're after I'll tell you I am armed, and I'll not hesitate to shoot. If
it's a beggar I have nothing for you. If it is anyone else I warn him I
will stand no trifling. I will say nothing to you, and if you follow me
you do so at your peril. Be warned in time and go back. You must not
meddle in this affair, whoever you are. I shall protect myself if I am
attacked!"
The voice ceased, and there sounded a click in the darkness, that might
indicate the man had cocked his revolver. Frank did not move. He hardly
breathed. He did not know what to do, for he had not counted on being
discovered.
"Remember! Follow me at your peril!" the man exclaimed again. Then,
turning quickly he ran ahead in the darkness, and was soon lost to sight.
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