"Here is the best I can do for you, lads," he said in a kindly tone, placing his burden on the table. "If you are hungry this won't come amiss, and in case your appetites are not keen, there will be no harm in allowing the food to remain untouched. Shall I call you in the morning?"
"We would like to leave here by daylight, sir, and will thank you for awakening us in case we oversleep."
Then the host left the room with a cheery "good-night," and the boys gazed at each other until a smile overspread the faces of all.
"I allow we were more scared than hurt," Jacob said in a tone of relief. "He has done what we asked, and in a very friendly fashion. If it hadn't been for the bar that can be fitted on the door, I never should have thought anything might be wrong."
Seth held up his hand to demand silence, and the three could hear the footsteps of their host as he went through the passage.
Enoch, who had not tasted of food since noon, and whose appetite was keen owing to the long ride and yet longer walk, began an attack upon the vegetables, in which he was soon joined by his comrades.
A very satisfactory meal did the three make, and as hunger was appeased their suspicions sank at rest, until, when the repast was ended, there remained no thought in the mind of either that harm could be intended.
"It is time we went to bed if we count on getting any sleep to-night," Seth said as he began to make his preparations for retiring. "Judging from the looks of the lights, we are within half a mile of Mount Holly, and should be able to get there before many people are stirring. Say, push open that door, will you, Enoch? We must have fresh air in some way and that seems to be the only chance, since there is no window."
Enoch took hold of the latch carelessly, and then with more determination, as the door failed to open.
"What is the matter?" Jacob asked, noting the look of fear on his comrade's face, and advancing until his hand also was on the latch. "Why, it's locked!"