“For what?” says Mr. Dunn.
“To escape, of course.”
“Oh,” says Mr. Dunn. “We’re going to escape how, eh? Very well, young man, go ahead and escape.”
“Whose hands are on top?” says Catty.
“Mine,” says Mr. Dunn.
“Can you work the ropes along the pole and stand up? Try it. That’s the way. Don’t be afraid to lean on us, and we’ll shove.”
Mr. Dunn wriggled around for a spell, and then got Mr. House onto his feet, and I got onto mine.
“My hands are at the bottom,” says Catty. “Now, everybody get hold of the tent pole. This is a little tent. Take it easy. Lift. Lift slow and steady so it won’t be noticed outside. Lift her up. She’s coming—she’s coming.... Once more. Just an inch more.... Fine. Now you can let go.”
We let go, and there was Catty standing a yard away and loose from the pole, but his hands were tied behind him yet.
“Everybody sit down again like you were—in case the guard peeks in,” says he.