The stage drove round to the door after breakfast, and there was the usual bustle, as the passengers bestowed themselves inside.
George Melville had intended to watch narrowly the landlord and Col. Warner, to detect, if possible, the secret understanding which must exist between them. But he was deprived of an opportunity, for the very good reason that the landlord had disappeared, and was not again seen before their departure.
The driver gathered up his reins, cracked his whip, and the stage started. Herbert looked at George Melville a little anxiously, not knowing what course he had decided to take. They two, it will be remembered, were the only ones who knew of the intended attack.
Before the stage started, Melville quietly took the opportunity to hand his pocketbook to Herbert, saying, briefly: “It will be safer with you in case of an attack.”
“But won't it be considered suspicious that you have no money about you?” suggested Herbert.
“I have a roll of bills in my pocket-fifty dollars,” answered Melville.
They had no further opportunity of speaking, as one of the passengers came up where they were standing.
Herbert had already taken his seat in the coach, when his employer said: “Herbert, wouldn't you like to ride outside with the driver?”
“Yes, sir,” answered Herbert, promptly, for he understood, that this was Mr. Melville's wish.
“It will give us more room, and you will have a better view.”