"Ah!" said Barnabas, beginning to frown.
"My pal Jarsper bid me say as you was to keep yourself scarce till 'e's got 'is 'ooks on the guilty party, sir."
"Ah!" said Barnabas, again, "and when does he intend to make the arrest?"
"This here very night, sir."
"Hum!" said Barnabas thoughtfully.
"And," continued the Corporal, "I were likewise to remind you, sir, as once your pals, ever and allus your pals. And, sir—good-night, and good-luck to you!" So saying, the Corporal shook hands, flourished his hook and strode away down the narrow stairs, smiling up at Barnabas like a beneficent giant.
And, when he was gone, Barnabas hurried back into the room and, taking pen and paper, wrote this:
You are to be arrested to-night, so I send you my friend, John
Peterby. Trust yourself to his guidance.
BEVERLEY.
And having folded and sealed this letter, he beckoned to Peterby.