“This way.”
“What! Are you going to take me back to prison?” said Humphrey mockingly.
“Do you wish to go straight to death?”
“I am going straight to liberty!” cried Humphrey.
“This way, then,” whispered his companion; and without a word Humphrey allowed himself to be led back along the dark arcade, listening to the heavy panting of his guide, who seemed to be breathing heavily, and as if in pain.
For some time no word was spoken. Then, as he became aware of his companion’s purpose, Humphrey stopped short.
“You are leading me back to that cursed prison,” he said fiercely. “Loose my hand.”
“I am leading you to the only place where you will be safe,” was whispered back. “Have I not suffered enough, man? Do you think I wish to die with the knowledge that, these dogs will seize and rend you in their drunken frenzy?”
“Rend me!”
“Yes. They have risen. That wretch, whom I have spared so long in my weak folly, is at their head. Humphrey Armstrong, believe me, I am trying to save your life!”