"And Dyke?" questioned Nell with intense eagerness.
"Was saved also, but he is badly hurt, and will be laid up for a month or more. He is in one of the city hospitals."
"Oh, sir, I am thankful it is no worse. What have they done with the villains, that sleek one with the red hair and beard?"
"They are all in prison, and will be brought to court as soon as the witnesses are in a condition to appear against them."
"The witnesses?"
"Dyke Darrel and yourself."
"Can I go to Dyke?"
"Hardly," he answered with a smile. "You could not walk, that is certain, and I am sure to attempt to ride would prove a dangerous experiment. I am too deeply interested in your welfare to permit the attempt."
"But I am quite strong, I assure you," returned Nell, rising to her feet only to sink back again with a cry of piteous weakness.
"You see, it would not do to attempt leaving your room at present," said the villain, still smiling. Besides, there is no need of it. Your brother is doing as well as could be expected, and he has the assurance that you are out of danger, which has proved a great comfort to him, I assure you.