Silently they stole back across the shed, and soon the three stood side by side in the narrow alley outside.
"Come!" cried Rob, seizing Barbara's arm eagerly. "There's not a moment to lose. Come!"
But Barbara was now thoroughly awake. She drew back quickly.
"But the others!" she exclaimed. "Surely you will not leave them behind. They are to die to-morrow."
Captain Protheroe shook his head.
"Mistress Barbara, the risk is too great."
"Oh, but that is rank cowardice," she exclaimed angrily. "You may do as you choose, sir, I shall——"
He laid a restraining hand upon her arm.
"Captain Protheroe," she exclaimed indignantly, eyeing him haughtily.
He smiled at her serenely.