He did not as yet suspect the fellow's purpose.

He understood it, however, when a heavy hand was laid on his shoulder.
"Quick, boy, your money!" said the ruffian.
Having but two dollars and a half, Joe naturally felt reluctant to part with it, and this gave him the courage to object.
"I've got none to spare," he said and tried to tear himself away.
His resistance led the fellow to suspect that he had a considerable sum with him.

Joe felt himself seized and carried into a den close by, which was frequented by thieves and desperate characters.
There was a counter, on which was set a dim oil-lamp.

There were a few bottles in sight, and a villainous-looking fellow appeared to preside over the establishment.

The latter looked up as Joe was brought in.
"Who have you there ?" asked the barkeeper.
"A young cove as don't want to part with his money." "You'd better hand over what you've got, young 'un." Joe looked from one to the other and thought he had never seen such villainous faces before.
"What are you lookin' at ?" demanded his captor suspiciously, "You want to know us again, do you?
Maybe you'd like to get us hauled up, would you ?" "I don't want ever to set eyes on you again." "That's the way to talk.