This started the company off generally in a noisy fit of laughter, before which poor Mole was forced to beat a retreat, followed by his irate partner.
"Poor Mole," said Jefferson, laughing heartily, "it is an unlucky admission for him. Chloe will give it to him sorely for this, I'm afraid."
* * * * *
They went deeply into the question of ransoming the boys, for they were convinced that they had really fallen into the hands of the brigands.
But do what they would, say what they would, they could only come back to one result.
They must wait.
Patience was difficult under the circumstances, but there was no help for it.
"Wait till to-morrow," said Jefferson; "it is a hard job, I know, but I feel certain that if the boys are with the brigands, to-morrow morning will bring a message from them."
"But can nothing be done meanwhile?" said Emily.
"No."