“Bravo!” Johnny’s lips formed the word, but he did not say it. Again the tiger crouched for a spring. The girl was gaining self-control. Estimating the position of the tiger, she tripped away from him. Angered, the tiger roared savagely, gave two short jumps, then leaped straight and high. With a little cry, half of fear, half of defiance, the girl sprang in air. The next instant the tiger’s paw touched the wire. One breathless second the girl appeared to hover in air, then she dropped. Her toe touched the vibrating wire. She slipped. She uttered a low moan. Just at that moment the spot light blinked suddenly out, leaving the great tent in utter darkness. * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * For a few moments after the candle was extinguished in the mysterious room down by the river Pant remained motionless. Then, as a groping hand found the door to his hiding place, he leaped into spring-steel-like action. The cupboard door banged open. A sudden flash of red light was followed by the dull thud of a body striking the floor. A second flash produced the same result. A chair clattered to the floor. The street door swung suddenly open, then banged shut again. A fugitive figure sought cover in the shadows of a dark corner of the building. “Are you shot?” came a gruff voice from within. “Thought I was, but guess I ain’t.” “So did I.” “There wasn’t any report.” “A red flame, and a biff that floored!” There followed sounds of movement. A match was struck. For a moment a light flickered in the room, then three heads appeared at the door. Mounting to the third step, the leader glanced quickly up and down the street. Then, followed by his two companions, he darted away. “Some rotten luck,” grumbled Pant, for it was he who lurked in the corner. Without a light, he again entered the room. When he came out a short time later, he was straightening out a bit of crumpled paper.
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