"Man on the track," said Dyke Darrel when the conductor came hurrying
to see what was the trouble.
Lanterns were at once brought into requisition, and men went back to
look for the body of the detective's assailant.
No one imagined that he could possibly plunge from the speeding train
and escape death. Dyke Darrel moved along confidently expecting to
look upon the bruised corpse of the outlaw who had attempted his
destruction.
He met with disappointment.
No man was found.
"He must have been a tough one to have jumped the train without
receiving a scratch," said a voice in the ear of the detective, as he
flashed the rays of a lantern down on the track.
Dyke Darrel glanced at the speaker, a gentleman with enormous red
beard, and rather worn silk hat.
This was the detective's first introduction to Professor Ruggles.
"I've no doubt of his being tough," answered Dyke Darrel.
"How did it happen?"
"I think the fellow intended to throw me off the train."
"Goodness! is that so? What was the trouble about?"
"No trouble that I am aware of. I did not know the man."
"Then it's likely he mistook you for some one else."
Dyke Darrel eyed the speaker keenly. There seemed to be nothing
suspicious about the Professor, however, and soon after the detective
dismissed him from his mind.
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