Gilbert did not fancy the plan, and hesitated.
"If there is no other way," he said, at length.
"My friend," said Mr. Grey, "I will stay with you, and send the boy home."
"I won't trust him," said Hugh, who had learned his lesson well. "Besides, he cannot get the money as well as you."
"There seems no help for it, Gilbert," said James Grey, turning to his nephew. "He insists upon retaining you, but it shall not be for long. I will at once obtain the money, and come back and release you. He is armed, and we are not. We cannot resist him."
"If you think it best," said Gilbert.
"I am afraid there is no other way. My friend, suppose I give you my promise to come back, will you excuse this young man from stopping?"
"No!" said Hugh, shortly.
"Say no more," said Gilbert. "I will remain."
He jumped lightly from the chaise, and Hugh released his hold of the bridle.