“And how did it happen, then?”

“As soon as I gave the money to the jailers, they entered his cell, unfastened his irons, loaned him some of their clothes, and I having procured a horse for the fugitive, he galloped away at full speed. After that I returned to see the match between you and Alick, and I came here with him to tell you all about it.”

“Very obliging of you,” said Death-wing, “very obliging, certainly; but it strikes me very forcibly you came here, expecting to find me alone, with the intent of robbing me.”

“Robbing you! Oh! you cannot think that. I am incapable of conceiving such a thing.”

“That may be; but who have you got to prove all you have said about the prisoner’s escape?”

“I did not think it necessary to bring the jailers with me to witness all I have said; but it is true, nevertheless, every word.”

“That may be; we shall quickly see.”

So speaking, Death-wing stamped his foot thrice heavily upon the floor.

A stranger answered the summons by entering the room.

He walked up towards Captain Jack, and confronted that officer boldly.