The woman spoke calmly, but she was inwardly excited. She knew that her husband would be enraged when he learned that the prisoners had escaped, but she hoped that her agency in the matter would not be suspected.
The two men ate heartily, and his breakfast made Ralph feel better natured.
When the meal was over, he said: "Come with me, Conrad. We have work to do."
He went upstairs, followed by his accomplice.
The key was in the lock, just as he had left it, apparently.
He turned the key, and opened the door of the chamber. What he expected to see was the two travelers in a profound slumber. What he did see was the bed disarranged and the chamber empty.
"What does all this mean?" he ejaculated, starting back in surprise.
"They're not here!" said Conrad, looking about him.
"Of course they're not, you fool! But how could they get away?"