“Hog!” repeated the Teuton, offended. “What for do you call me a hog, I like to know?”
“Because you are one. Pick yourself up, or I’ll step on you.”
Thus mildly entreated, Herr Schmidt made shift to stand, and on ascertaining that he had really met with no serious injuries, begun to feel better.
Alonzo now took the lead, and conducted the prisoners into an inner cave, where by the light of the lantern several pallets were seen lying upon the earth.
“Lie down there if you like,” he said.
“That’s all very well,” said Gates, “but allow me to remind you that I generally sup before retiring.”
“So do I,” said Herr Schmidt. “Have you got some good beer and sausages? And I think I would like some schweitzer käse, too.”
“None of that for me, please,” said Gates.
“You shall have some supper shortly,” said the robber, turning to leave them.
They hoped he would leave the lantern, but he evidently thought they had no need of it. A minute later and they found themselves enveloped in darkness.