"Here is evidence that we are to be kept prisoners until it is no longer possible to gain any information concerning the movements of the Britishers. It must be morning, even though it's dark, for I don't think the Tory would have paid us a second visit during the night."
Jacob appeared to have recovered from the fit of ill-temper which had assailed him, and now said as he examined the supply of provisions:
"If it is morning we may as well have breakfast. I wish one of us had a watch so we could have some idea of time, for we shan't see daylight while we are cooped up here."
Seth was in as despondent a mood as a boy well can be, when he arose from the bed to act upon his companion's suggestion; but each was careful not to let the others understand how hopeless seemed the situation in this first moment of awakening.
Neither of the prisoners ate with much relish, and the meal was quickly finished.
Then each gave himself up to his own gloomy reflections, and after remaining silent nearly half an hour, Enoch said sharply:
"Look here, boys, it doesn't seem possible that we can get out of this place unaided; but at the same time we shall all feel better if we are doing something, instead of mooning like this. Now let's decide upon a plan and go to work."
"I am willing to begin any job, however hopeless it seems, rather than remain idle," Seth replied promptly. "Do you still think there is a chance of cutting our way through the end of the house?"
"No; that now seems to me less likely than a good many other plans. Why not try to raise some of the flooring?"
"But suppose you succeed?" Jacob asked. "You wouldn't be out of the house."