Dean did not want to give him time for reflection. He seized his hat, and handed Pompey the instrument.
The negro guided him, not to the front entrance which he already knew, but to a back exit which he had overlooked. Here there was a door skillfully concealed on the outside. Pompey drew out a key, opened it, and with infinite relief Dean again saw the sunshine and breathed the air of freedom.
"Good-bye, Pompey!" he said. "I thank you with all my heart."
"If Massa Kirby cotch you, don't you tell him I let you go," said Pompey, hoarsely.
"No, I won't, Pompey, but I don't mean to let him catch me."
The door closed behind him, and Dean paused to consider what course to take. He must at all hazards avoid falling in with Kirby and Dan.
"That harmonica is worth its weight in gold!" thought Dean, gratefully. "It is a regular talisman."