“Th’ fact o’ th’ matter is, Allan,” said Jack, in a low voice, as the boy caught up with him, “I come home early on purpose t’ see you.”
“To see me?” Allan repeated, and when he glanced at Jack, he saw that his face was very grave.
“Yes, t’ see you,” said Jack again, and hesitated, as though reluctant to impart the news which he knew would be unwelcome.
“What is it?” asked Allan, and a little shiver ran through him, for he knew that Jack would not speak so without good reason.
The elder man hesitated yet a moment.
“Dan Nolan’s loose,” he said, at last, his voice hoarse with emotion.
[CHAPTER IX]
AN UNWELCOME GUEST