"Confound the fools who did not warn us."
"I was never far. I have heard nearly all."
"Much good may it do you; and now let us pass."
"On the contrary; I decline to let you pass," said Clinton.
"Good!" said Sleepy, rubbing his hands together; "After all there will be some broken bones here."
"Perhaps," continued Oliver, clutching his rifle.
"Ah! Ah! So the fun is going to begin," said the outlaw.
"Silence," cried the captain, sternly; "silence, and fall back." As soon as they had obeyed he advanced to Clinton.
"As you have heard our conversation," he said, "why do you try and oppose our free departure?"
"Because, as you know, I am answerable for your person. I promised you should not leave my house until you were quite cured of your wounds."