he hotel at once, wondering why the gentleman did not give
him a car fare if the business demanded so much speed, and on his way
to the pier he heard the news-boys crying the particulars of the
"Terrible tragedy on East Twentieth Street."

"I'll see what the story is," Jet said to himself as he bought one of
the papers, but he did not stop to read then lest he should arrive at
the rendezvous too late.

The gentleman was waiting for him on his arrival, but did not express
any anxiety to start for Yonkers immediately.

"You can go up to my room and help me stow away some baggage," he said,
glancing around as if to make certain they were not observed.

"Ain't this the Albany boat?"

"Yes; but I reckon there's nothing to prevent our getting out at
Yonkers."

"I didn't know she stopped there."

"You will probably have time to learn several things before you're many
years older."

"But this steamer doesn't leave till night."

"I've made another change in my plans, and it doesn't concern you since
a messenger's duty is to follow as long as he is paid for his services."

This was said in such an angry tone that Jet held his peace lest he
should give further offense, but at the same time the whole affair was
beginning, in his mind, to assume a very mysterious aspect.

The man motioned for him to walk by his side, and led the way through
the main saloon to a state-room forward, where, through the half-opened
door. Jet failed to see the baggage which had been spoken of as
needing "stowing."

"Go in," the stranger said impatiently, pushing Jet into the apartment,
and following him.

Then the door was locked, and the man carefully fastened both the
shutter and window.

Now the messenger was alarmed, and turned toward the door with upraised
fist as if to pound for assistance, when a hand was placed roughly over
his mouth.

"Don't try any such game as that or there'll be trouble, you young
cub," the man whispered, and almost before Jet knew what was being done
a hard substance had been forced into his mouth and fastened there by a
towel tied around his head.

That he was a victim of foul play the young messenger could have no
doubt, and he struggled with all his strength to free himself, but in
vain.

The stranger took from his pocket several lengths of stout rope, bound
first Jet's hands and then his feet, after which he threw him roughly
into one of the berths.

"I reckon you'll lay there without making ver