“Why, simply that the prisoner’s attempt to escape was a ruse.”
“A ruse?”
“Exactly. That’s why he jumped toward us. Do you see now?”
“No,” replied Hal, losing his temper, “I don’t. Quit beating around the bush. If you have anything to tell me, do it.”
“Well, then,” said Chester, “you see this piece of paper?”
“Yes.”
“Well, the prisoner made his attempt to escape for the sole purpose of handing this to one of us. I happened to be closer to him than you were. That’s why I got it.”
“You mean——” began Hal.
“Exactly,” Chester interrupted. “Now, let’s see what it says.”