Garrison Cooper shuddered.
"I was to have been the sixth victim," he murmured. "I am glad it is past midnight!"
Cooper was to sleep in the room which Duncan had occupied. Major Weston went upstairs, leading the way. Harry Vincent remained by the wireless instrument, apparently to make a final call.
He remained there for a full hour. Then he tiptoed noiselessly upstairs. He listened at the two closed doors — first at Cooper's, then at Weston's. Assured that both men were asleep, he retired.
CHAPTER XXXVI. THE SURPRISE
Wednesday was a day of waiting. After one o'clock in the afternoon, Harry sent a few calls, but did not receive a response until nearly six. He repeated the message to his companions:
"Further instructions will follow soon. Unless you are notified differently, follow this plan. Move at eleven o'clock, with Weston and Cooper. Surprise Chefano and the ape-man. Watch out for a third man called Frenchy. He may be in hiding. Wait outside the gates from nine o'clock on, in case the agent of Prince Samanov arrives early. Attack at eleven whether he has come or not. Then wait to meet him. You will not be aided. You three should be sufficient. Circumstances make assistance difficult. Report immediately after operations."
Harry still kept the ear phones on his head in response to a "Stand by" that had followed the message.
Code words came again, bringing unexpected instructions. Harry repeated the message aloud:
"Send Major Weston to look at the cabin in the woods. He must go immediately. Tell him to make sure that it is deserted."