"Mercy, mercy!" shrieked the doctor, terribly alarmed. "Are you mad?"
"When did the boy escape? Tell me instantly, if you value your life."
"Over a month since. I didn't wish to alarm you, and so concealed the intelligence."
"While you continued to draw for his board, you thief!"
"I—I am prepared to refund the money, monsieur. I only drew because it was necessary to keep up the deception."
M. Bourdon refunded five weeks' board, told the story of Ben's escape, and Major Grafton was compelled to be content with this.
"I am afraid the game is up!" he muttered, as he rode rapidly away. "That cursed boy has spoiled all. I wish I had him in my clutches!"
It was well for Ben that he was not within reach of the irate major.