“Lieutenant Bulver, captain.”
“Is he in sufficient force to control the mob?”
“He has a strong body of troops, captain.”
“What are you doing in the house?” I was curious to know whether the escape of the soldiers had anything to do with it.
“We were detailed to see if the arrest had yet been made, captain, and to assist you if necessary.”
I breathed a little more freely.
“All I need is that the mob there be kept in the front of the house so that I can get away with the prisoner quietly at the back. That side street must be cleared of people. How did you get into the house?”
“We forced a small door at the side, captain.”
This accounted for his not knowing anything of what had gone on below stairs in the basement.
Then came the sound of more hooting and groaning from the front of the house; and another volley of stones breaking more of the windows. This in turn was followed by sharp words of command; and a knocking at the front door.