The prisoner followed without molestation, and as Enoch emerged the door closed, the creaking of the heavy bolt as it was shot into its socket telling that the prison was barred once more; but the prisoner was on the outside.
CHAPTER V.
THE PATROL.
Seth appeared like one in a daze as Jacob and Enoch, ranging themselves on either side, hurried him up the street.
Knowing what apparently convincing proof there was against him, the prisoner had given up all hope from the moment he was locked in a cell, and his escape, having been effected so readily and so quickly, seemed more like a dream than a happy reality.
Until they arrived at Sixth Street, which was as far as the town extended in that direction, not a word was spoken, and then Jacob, unloosening the bag of provisions which he had carried over his shoulder, said as he handed it to Seth:
"Here is sufficient food for two days. You are to make your way toward Valley Forge without thinking of fatigue, for should you be captured again no one can save you from a disgraceful death."
"But tell me why I was allowed to come out of jail?"
"A friend of yours, whose name must never be mentioned, arranged everything. We had only to go in and walk away with you."
"What friend have I got who is so powerful?" Seth asked in amazement.
"We are bound never to speak his name in connection with your escape, for what he has done this night would seem like treason to those who did not believe our story. You will guess in time, and it is enough now that you are free."