“Spying on us, eh?” he snarled.
Nancy Drew eyed the man defiantly.
“I wasn’t spying.”
“Then what were you doing in that closet?”
“I came to see the caretaker.”
“Looking for him in a funny place, ain’t you?” sneered the man.
Nancy realized that she was in a desperate situation. The look on the robber’s face frightened her.
“I heard someone coming and I was afraid,” she explained lamely.
“Well, it was unhealthy business that brought you here,” the man told her sharply. “What did you hear in that closet?” Without giving her an opportunity to answer the question, he added with a scowl: “I warn you this will be the last time you’ll ever stick your nose in business that doesn’t concern you!”
As Nancy saw the expression on the man’s face, there was no mistaking the ugly threat. One glance assured her that she could expect no mercy. The hopelessness of her situation gave her the courage to defy him.
“I didn’t hear much, but I saw plenty!” she cried. “You’re nothing but a common thief, and if I get the chance I’ll turn you and your gang over to the police!”
“If you get the chance—that’s good.” The robber laughed mirthlessly. “I’ll do with you as I did the caretaker.”
“The caretaker!” Nancy gasped in horror. “What have you done with him?”