“The kitchen clock's just struck three,” whispered Abner. “You haven't forgotten that we are going to run away, have you?”
“I'll get right up,” said Herbert, rubbing his eyes.
In two minutes the boys were dressed and ready for a start. It had taken a great deal longer for Herbert to dress at home, but he had become less particular as to his toilet now.
The boys took their shoes in their hands, and stole out in their stocking feet. As they passed the door of the room in which Mr. and Mrs. Barton slept, they heard the deep breathing of both, and knew that they were not likely to be heard.
Outside the door they put on their shoes, and were now ready to start.
“Wait a minute, bub,” said Abner.
He re-entered the house, and presently came out holding half a loaf in his hand.
“That'll do for our breakfast,” he said. “We won't eat it now. We'll wait till five o'clock. Then we'll be hungry.”
By five o'clock they were as many miles on their way. They had reached the middle of the next town.
“Do you feel tired, bub?” asked Abner.