"For your sake I shall stay," was the reply.
But there was no need for Madeline's fear. She was safe in the presence of those men. Where reason and appeal to loyalty had failed, the presence of this woman had succeeded. Their hearts were stirred by the scene before them, and the true chivalry of their nature conquered.
"Three cheers for the lady," shouted one.
"Three cheers," was the cry, and how they did roar out the three rounds and a "tiger."
"Thank you very much," Madeline responded. "But you will prove that you are in earnest by sparing those men."
"An' let 'em escape the noose?" roared one. "Not a bit of it."
"Wait until the morning, then," Madeline pleaded. "Not to-night. For my sake."
"Come, Jake, don't be stubborn," was the cry. "Let's do as the lady wishes. But we'll take good care they won't git away. Come, boys, let's make 'em fast, an' tie 'em up good an' tight till mornin'."
In the confusion and cries which followed Grey seized Madeline by the arm, and hurried back to the cabin. Neither spoke until they were within the building and the door shut. Then Grey reached out and took Madeline's hands in his.