So it was and a frequent indulgence in the vile liquid would probably
have burned his stomach and unfitted it for service. But the
momentary effect was stimulating, and inspired Hogan with a kind of
Dutch courage, which raised him in the opinion of his burly
confederate.

"Push ahead, pard," said he. "I'm on hand."

"That's the way to talk," said Rafferty approvingly. "If we're
lucky, we'll be richer before morning."

Through the dark streets, unlighted and murky, the two confederates
made their stealthy way, and in five minutes stood in front of Joe's
restaurant.

CHAPTER XXII

CHECKMATED

Everything looked favorable for their plans. Of course, the
restaurant was perfectly dark, and the street was quite deserted.

"How shall we get in?" asked Hogan of his more experienced accomplice.

"No trouble--through the winder."

Rafferty had served an apprenticeship at the burglar's trade, and was
not long in opening the front window. He had no light and could not
see that Joe had a companion. If he had discovered this, he would
have been more cautious.