‘Who is there?’ demanded the landlord.
‘It is only I, Blodget,’ was the answer, and being satisfied that it was his voice, the door was cautiously opened, and the villain entered. He greeted them all heartily, and then, by the invitation of Jenkins, having taken his seat at the table, the mirth of the gang was resumed, and carried on with increased spirit, Blodget joining in with as much freedom as if he had been one of the gang.
‘Well, Mr. Blodget,’ asked Jenkins, ‘and don’t you think I managed this business very well for you?’
‘Aye, Jenkins,’ answered Blodget; ‘you did everything that I could wish; but think you she will be safe where she is?’
‘Safe!’ repeated Jenkins; ‘as safe as when she was buried deep in the bowels of the earth. Gordon is just the man who will take care of her.’
‘That is well,’ replied Blodget; ‘but it is not unlikely that I shall not have any occasion to trouble him long.’
‘Why, you would never be such a fool as to attempt to remove her from a place of security?’ demanded Jenkins.
‘Circumstances may compel me so to do.’
‘I understand you; but we must see about the best means of preventing all chance of that,’ said Jenkins; ‘you have been a lucky fellow, Blodget, to get the lady in your power and at your mercy; it is glorious revenge.’
‘It is, it is!’ answered Blodget; ‘but not sufficient to gratify me.’