I seized him, and, tearing with the strength of passion at his bonds, tugged and wrenched until I freed his hands and lifted him in my arms. He was still faint, though I detected now the signs of returning consciousness. Then I extinguished the light, darted with him through the entrance into the secret passage, and, clapping a hand over his mouth that he should utter no sound when his senses came back, I drew my revolver, and peering through the glass into the dark room, stood at bay, resolved to sell my life dearly, whatever chanced.
But I had secured a magnificent hostage for ultimate freedom, could I only get through this mess. It would all turn on what happened when the General’s men entered the room, and I clenched my teeth as I stared into the darkness.
There was no long wait. I had barely hidden myself when someone knocked at the door of the room, paused for a reply, knocked again, and entered. Two men came in, the faint light from the hall beyond showing up their uniformed figures.
“This isn’t the room; it’s all in darkness,” said one in a deep bass voice.
“Yes, it is; it’s the library,” said the other, who evidently knew the house. “Are you there, General? Did you call?”
They both waited for an answer, and, getting none, came further into the room.
“It can’t be it,” said the first speaker.
“Better get a light,” returned the second. “I know it is the right room.”
“Well, it’s devilish odd.” Fumbling in his pocket, he got a match, struck it and held it up, glancing round the room with the faint, flickering light held above his head.
“Here’s a lamp,” said his companion; “hot too, only just put out. I don’t like this. Where can the General be?”