"Oh, I thought you knew it," said the jailer calmly. "I say, let them fear goodwife Bishop's ghost who did her wrong. As for me, I favored her all I dared; and her last word to me was a blessing. But now for your honor's business, I have not long to stay."
"I have planned all but the getting out of jail. Can it be easily done?"
"As easy as walking out of a room."
"Will you not be suspected?"
"Not at all, I think—they are so mightily sooperstitious. I shall lock everything tight after her; and make up a good story about my wakening up in the middle of the night, just in time to see her flying out of the top o' the house, on her black mare, and thrashing the animal with a broom-handle. The bigger the lie the quicker they will believe it."
"If they should suspect you, let Master Putnam know, and he will get you off, if wit and money together can do it."
"Oh, I believe that," said the jailer. "Master Putnam is well known in all these parts, as a man that never deserts a friend; and I'll warrant you are one of the same grit."
"My hand on it, Robie!" and he shook the jailer's hand warmly. "I shall never forget this service."
"I am a rough, ignorant man," replied Robie quietly; "but I know gentle blood when I see it."
"What time of night will suit you best?"