CHAPTER XX.
THE MAP AGAIN.
The men were marched away to the village, where they were incarcerated in the village lockup. In order that there would not be the slightest chance of their escaping, or being rescued by friends, who might in some way learn of their capture, Fernald ordered the Customs agents and the sheriff and his deputies to stand guard the rest of the night, keeping the prisoners constantly under surveillance.
Himself taking charge of the precious belt, he led the way to the Everett house. Here they found that Ruth had not retired, but had stayed up, nervously awaiting their return.
Carefully drawing the shades of the windows, Fernald emptied the pockets of the belt out onto the tablecloth.
For moments all stood spellbound at the beauty and magnificence of the gems.
Then Fernald, almost with awe in his voice, said:
"Why, there's a king's ransom here!"
After the party had examined the gems, and commented again and again on their beauty, it occurred to Ruth to ask what would be the disposal of the jewels.