“Better let this matter alone entirely. It makes no difference what you do, you’re going to get the worst of it. Old Blood will surely be found out.” “You talk like fools!” growled Scott. “But just keep on and we’ll see who comes out best. I work for money, I do!” “That is right,” agreed Old King Brady. “Nobody will dispute that.” Scott went away in high dudgeon. The Bradys were much edified. “It is easy to understand him,” said the old detective. “He is only a tool for Blood.” “It is evident the old usurer means to put the young cashier out of the way,” said Harry. “Very true.” “I think it would be a good idea to see Allerton and warn him.” “So do I. Ah!” Old King Brady gave a great start. A man had crossed the street and now passed very close to the detectives. It was Blood. The detectives were, of course, greatly interested. They watched the old usurer carefully. He entered Sly Jimmie’s dive. “He has gone in to see the trio,” said Old King Brady in a breath. “Yes.” “They will tell him of our position in the case.” “The old fellow will be put on his guard.” “Just so.” “By Jupiter!” exclaimed Harry. “I’d like mighty well to know just what their conversation will be.” “Would it be safe to venture into the place again in another guise?” “They would know us.” “Well,” said the old detective, with sudden inspiration, “I think I have a plan.” “What is it?” “Do you see the alley on this side of the building?” “Yes.” “Well, I think there is a small window on a level with the ground. It is directly over the table where those fellows sit.” “Indeed!” “It is true. I remember seeing it. Now, if we can only creep in there and either open the window or remove a pane of glass, we ought to hear every word.” “Good! Let us try it.” The Bradys were not slow in undertaking this feat. They crept into the alley and soon had located the window. Here they made an agreeable discovery. It was not necessary to open the window or remove the glass. Every word spoken by the villains below came up to their ears. They were still seated at the table and Blood was with them. The old usurer seemed greatly excited that the Bradys were possessed of a knowledge of his complicity in the crime. “Curse them!” cried Blood, savagely. “I hope they do not know too much. Did you admit anything?” “You bet we didn’t!” said Collins, angrily. “What do you take us for?” “Well, it looks as if they might be an obstacle in our path.” “Wall, you bet!” “There’s only one thing to be done!” “We’re waitin’ fer the word!” “If the trio gets after them it’s all up with them.” “You bet!” cried Van, with a fierce grin. “Say the word, boss. We’ll give ’em a race fer life. What’s the job worth to ye in solid money?” “Ten thousand dollars!” replied the usurer. CHAPTER V. OUTWITTING THE CROOKS. “Done!” cried Burke. “We are your birds.”