These last words, and the assurances of Cripple, calmed the suspicions which Frank for a moment had raised among the prisoners. Skeleton alone remained doubtful.
"What shall we do with the keeper?"
"Tell us, Doomed-to-Death," said Nicholas, laughing.
"Well! some will engage his attention on one side."
"No: we will hold him by force."
"Yes."
"No."
"Silence in the gang!" cried Skeleton. The most profound quiet ensued.
"Listen to me well," resumed the provost, in a hoarse voice, "there are no means to do the job while the keeper is in the ward, or the court. I have no knife; there will be some stifled cries—the sneak will struggle."
"Then what is to be done?"