"Not yet, but I shall devote my whole attention to it and it will go hard with me if I cannot hit on something. Would you have the courage to dare very much for my sake, George?"
"I would dare anything under the sun for you, Alie, and though you asked me such a question, I do not think you feel any doubt as to what answer I would give."
"I had no doubt. Do not think that. And now, George, tell me what your sister says, now that she knows who I am?"
"Janet is more your friend than ever. I told her your story this morning, and she bade me give you her love and tell you we would save you yet."
Again the tears rose in Alie's eyes.
"What will the East say when it hears that the Beautiful White Devil is caught at last?"
"I don't know, and I don't care. One thing I'm certain of, however, and that is that I should like to have five minutes with Mr. Barkmansworth alone. I think then he'd know that——"
But what I was going to say was interrupted by the entrance of the officer who had brought me to the room.
"Time's up, I'm sorry to say, sir."
I rose immediately and turned to say good-bye! Being a good-hearted fellow, the man left us alone together for another moment, and during that time I was able to whisper an assurance to my sweetheart that no stone should be left unturned to secure her release. Then bidding her be of good cheer, I passed out, feeling as if the bolts clanging behind me were closing on my heart.