“To reclaim him. It does not suit me to leave him here.”
Ford's manner was so imperative that Miss Stone became alarmed.
“The boy is not fit to travel,” she said. “Wait till my brother comes, and he will decide, being a physician, whether it is safe to have him go.”
“Madam, this subterfuge will not avail,” said Ford, rudely. “I will not wait till your brother comes. I prefer to take the matter into my own hands.”
He pressed forward to the door of the room, and before Miss Stone could prevent it, was on his way upstairs. She followed as rapidly as she could, but before she could reach him, Ford had dashed into the room where Herbert lay on the bed.
Herbert was stricken with terror when he saw the face of his enemy.
“I see you know me,” said Ford, with an evil smile. “Get up at once, and prepare to go with me.”
“Leave me here, Mr. Ford. I can't go with you; Indeed, I can't,” said Herbert.
“We'll see about that,” said Ford. “I give you five minutes to rise and put on your clothes. If you don't obey me, I will flog you.”
Looking into his cruel face, Herbert felt that he had no other resource. Trembling, he slipped out of bed, and began to draw on his clothes. He felt helpless, but help was nearer than he dreamed.