“Ah. She’s gone and if we’re to get her into our possession again we shall have to be quick.”

“Gone? Where?” I exclaimed, aghast at the check.

He threw up his hands.

“To Samac. But you haven’t taken that oath about my share.”

“You infernal villain. Do you think I mean to harm her? Out of the way;” and dashing him aside, I called for the other man and told him I must have my horse at once.

Then I turned back to Petrov.

“How long has she been gone?” I asked.

“I shan’t say. I’ve lied to you, Burgwan.”

“Here;” and I took out some gold pieces. “These are yours if you tell the truth.”

“She’s gone on the road to Samac, Burgwan, in a carriage which the priest found for her, and has about half an hour’s start. They kept me from coming back to you.”