“It was——”
“Empty,” nodded Frank.
After a little the Virginian eagerly asked:
“How was that? Explain it!”
“I cannot. All I know is that the hollow metal ball which had caused me so much trouble was perfectly empty. The Black Brothers were infuriated at the discovery, and my death was set to occur at once. They drew their swords and were ready to run them through my body when the first blow fell on the door at the head of the stairs and the officers demanded admittance.”
Jack was silent, thinking of the wonderful things he had heard.
“I have no doubt but the story seems almost beyond belief,” said Frank; “but you came with Mr. Noname and found me in the cellar. You know I did not tie myself to that post. Here is the red star, which is the sign of death. The metal ball I cannot show you, as that has passed beyond my possession.”
“Good heavens! What are you going to do, Frank? Why don’t you get out of Paris and out of France?”
A grim look came to Merry’s face.
“Do you advise me to run away?” he asked. “Would that be manly?”