“That we all get out of here at once, before the officers return.”
“But there are others on guard outside this building,” said Jack.
“I know a way to pass them.”
“He is right,” decided Frank, remembering his unpleasant experience with the police. “Come.”
“Just as you say,” said Diamond regretfully; “but I’d like to help mob those whelps.”
They mounted the stairs and clambered over the broken door, following the Man of Mystery. Above they were in darkness, but he led them on. Their feet awoke the echoes of empty rooms and corridors. They passed through doors and made many turns. At last they stopped. Barely had they done so when, somewhere in the darkness, a voice was distinctly heard to say:
“The decree is made, the red star has fallen, and Frank Merriwell is doomed to die!”
The words were distinctly spoken, but it was impossible to tell from whence they came. Jack Diamond gripped Frank’s arm.
“Do you hear?” he whispered.
A scornful laugh came from Merriwell’s lips.