"There will be two of them to take care of," said Hunston, following them up as closely as was prudent; "that complicates matters. I hope Matteo has taken his measures carefully."
Matteo had.
They drew near to the entrance of the maze, and then Hunston began to look anxiously about him for Matteo and the rest of their accomplices.
"I think we had better return," he heard little Emily say.
Suddenly a whistle was blown, and five or six men sprang out from the maze.
In less time than it takes to record the outrage, the two girls were seized and borne off in stout, relentless arms, their cries being stifled by thick wraps thrown over their heads.
"To the small gate," exclaimed Hunston.
Mole recognised the familiar voice of Hunston, and the whole danger flashed into his mind at once, sobering him most effectually.
"Hunston, you villain, I know you!" he cried. "And I will lose my life rather than harm should come to these dear girls."
Hunston turned and faced him savagely.