"What is that to thee?"
"Nought, only 'tis a lady I am here to aid; Mistress Barbara Winslow."
"What! Even so? Why, well met, friend. 'Tis even she of whom I spake. She is sleeping yonder. I will go bring her and we can slip out quietly without rousing the others."
Robert eyed him half-doubtfully.
"Be speedy then. Every minute is danger, for I know not when the sentries will be round."
"True, there's no time to lose."
The two had carried on their conversation in whispers; the other inmates of the shed were undisturbed.
Captain Protheroe now went swiftly to Barbara's side. She was sleeping quietly, her cheek pillowed on her hands. He aroused her gently.
"What is it?" she gasped, in sleepy bewilderment.
"Freedom," he whispered, smiling down at her.