Ned’s manner was so firm, cool, and determined, that the two astonished officers were compelled to obey him.
Reluctantly they rose, and hobbled after each other into the cell.
Ned turned the key upon them, and there left them alone in their glory.
“If either of you make any noise for the next half-hour I’ll clip your ears off,” said Ned, as he walked coolly away.
He had not gone many yards ere both of the officers began to bawl at the top of their voices.
Ned returned to them, and just placed the muzzle of his pistol between the bars, when the two officers fell upon their knees and sued for mercy in a very humble manner.
“I only asked you to remain quiet for half-an-hour before,” said he, “but now listen to me; if either of you make the slightest noise for the next twelve hours I will blow your brains out. Remember, and rest assured if you do not obey me this time both of you are dead men.”
Ned left them a second time, but did not forget to bolt and bar and lock every door, so that it was a matter almost of impossibility for either of them to escape or even be heard by any one passing outside.
In less than half-an-hour Wildfire Ned, Bob Bertram and Tim were on their way to the sea-coast.
But ere they reached their journey’s end a strange adventure happened to Wildfire Ned.