"Don't be afraid," said Tidkins: "it won't come to that. She was half inclined to tell every thing last night when I visited her as usual. But come along, and let's see how she is disposed this morning."
The Resurrection Man descended the stone staircase, followed by Banks, who carried the light.
In a few moments they entered the vault where their prisoner was confined.
And that prisoner was the vile hag of Golden Lane!
A lamp burned feebly upon the table in the subterranean; and the old woman was already up and dressed when the two men made their appearance.
She was sitting in a chair, dolefully rocking herself to and fro, and uttering low moans as she pondered upon her condition and the terms on which she might obtain her release.
When the Resurrection Man and Banks entered the subterranean, she turned a hasty glance towards them, and then continued to rock and moan as before.
The two men seated themselves on the side of the bed.
"Well," said the Resurrection Man, "have you made up your mind, old woman? Because me and my friend Banks are pretty tired of this delay; and if the solitary system won't do—why, we must try what good can be effected by starvation."
"Alack! I have always thought myself bad enough," said the old hag; "but you are a very devil."