One there was behind him, however--Tony, the Greek, following stealthily on his trail.
At last, as Dalzell reached the head of a short, narrow alleyway Tony caught up with him in the darkness that had now fallen.
A quick shove Tony gave the midshipman, and Dan, helpless, staggered into the alleyway, tripped and fell.
Tony passed on as though he had merely accidentally jostled another.
Then, in an instant he wheeled, went back the head of the alley and glanced in.
Dan Dalzell was lying still, in a complete stupor.
With a chuckle the Greek drew a small bottle from one of his pockets, taking out the stopper and throwing it away.

Then he began sprinkling the contents on Dan's uniform coat with energy.
At that instant there was a quick step outside.

Then Dave Darrin, tall, handsome, and even distinguished-looking in the uniform that he wore so well, bounded in, gripping the Greek's right arm in a tight grasp.
"You rascal!" vibrated Dave's angry voice.

"What are you doing here ?" It being darker in the alleyway than it was outside, Tony did not recognize his captor.

Dave towered so in his wrath that the Greek took him to be an officer of the Navy.
"Speak up, before I shake the truth out of you!" warned Darrin.
"Do you understand that this is a crime, you knave, and that I can place you under arrest and have you sent to the penitentiary for years ?" Tony was now sure that he was in the clutch of a Naval officer.
Moreover, Darrin's grip was one that spoke of more muscular strength held in reserve.
"Let me go, sare!" begged the Greek, squirming.