“I mean that you attempted to murder this boy, and would have done so, in all probability, if I had not interfered. When I am arrested, I shall feel it my duty to make this known to the authorities.”
Abner was silent. He felt that Ralph's testimony would have an ugly look.
“Let me go,” he said, after a pause. “You needn't be afraid of my troubling either of you. Don't tie me.”
“Abner Holden,” said Ralph, “I know you, and I know you are not to be trusted. I have resolved to help this boy to escape from you, and I mean to do it effectually. For this purpose, I must subject you to temporary inconvenience. I advise you not to resist.”
He had already tied the hands of Abner Holden, who, as he looked into the fearless, resolute face of the Ranger, felt that it would not do to resist. It chafed him most to think that Herbert, his bound boy, should be a witness of his humiliation, and he scowled savagely at our hero. But Herbert showed no triumph. His was a brave and generous nature, and had it rested with him, he would have let Mr. Holden go, but he did not think it best to interfere.
Ralph quickly tied both hands and feet, and then took the helpless body of Abner into the cabin, where he placed him in one corner.
“Are you thirsty?” he asked.
“Yes,” said Abner, sullenly.
Ralph placed a cup of water to his lips. He also placed a loaf of bread beside him, which, though his hands were tied at the wrist, he would still be able to reach, and then beckoned to Herbert.
“Come,” he said, “it is time that we were going.”