CHAPTER XXXI.
A BATTERY TURNS THE TABLES.
Franklin's entrance was so totally unexpected that Montague Smith could do little else but stare at him in open-mouthed amazement. Mrs. Bliss started back in affright, and then gave a joyous cry.
"Oh, how glad I am that you have come back!" she cried.
"So it is you!" burst from the lips of Montague Smith, at last. "The young fellow that worked for me last week! What does this mean?"
"It means that you are not to mistreat Mrs. Bliss," returned Franklin, as calmly as he could, although he was wrought up to the top pitch of excitement.
"See here, are you merely a spy?" fumed the part owner of the battery works, as he left the woman's side and confronted the young electrician. "Did you merely hire out with me for the purpose of watching my doings?"
"Never mind about that," returned Franklin, coldly. "I am here just now to defend this lady, and I propose to do it."
