[He helps Carter down through the floor as the key is heard in the door. Gordon throws the bricks back into place, and then draws mattress over them. He snatches up blanket, drawing it partially over him, strikes out candle with his hand, pillows his head on his arm and pretends to be asleep. Enter Bill from the hall. He is very cross at having been disturbed.
Bill. Nice time o' night to be coming asking for prisoners. Fool! Why couldn't he wait till mornin (holds up lantern). Humph! Must all be sleepin in the parlor. Well, I'll get um out of thar (he catches sight of Gordon). Well, friendly fellow—this; wants room to himself. You, there; get up! (Gordon moves and half turns, but does not open eyes) Thunder! Are you dead? Get up!
[Shakes him roughly by the arm.
Gordon (half rising, as though very sleepy). What's the matter?
Bill. Matter? Get up from thar and you'll see.
Gordon. Well, I'm awake. What do you want?
Bill. Two fellers from the army ter see yer. Hump! That makes you look up, don't it? I guess they've got important business with you, you damned spy!
Gordon (rises quickly, confronting him). Be careful!
Bill (astonished, but drawing back). Careful, eh? We'll be careful enough of you. I don't guess your stay will be much longer here. That is the way we has with spies—damn you! (he opens the door). In here, sir.
[Enter Winthrop and Hopkins. They wear their hats and long riding capes and have evidently come a long way.