The warden then requested the visitors to follow him and led the way up-stairs to the cells.
"I understand that the criminals are confined separately?" said Mr. Gray to the warden.
"No, sir; they were so confined at first, for better security, but as they have been very quiet, and as since those rowdies that disturbed the camp meeting have been sent to prison and filled up our cells, we have had to put those three robbers into one cell."
"I'm afraid I—" began the minister, hesitating.
"Father Gray is nervous, good Mr. Jailor; I hope there's no danger from these dreadful men—all of them together—for I promised Father Gray that he should be safe, myself," said Mrs. Condiment.
"Oh, ma'am, undoubtedly; they are double-ironed," said the warden, as he unlocked a door and admitted the visitors, into rather a darkish cell, in which were the three prisoners.
Steve the mulatto was stretched upon the floor in a deep sleep.
Hal was sitting on the side of the cot, twiddling his fingers.
Dick sat crouched up in a corner, with his head against the wall.
"Peace be with you, my poor souls," said the mild old man, as he entered the cell.