"Forward, you horse thief," Jacob's rough voice was heard saying; "we just captured you in time."
A man whose face was covered with blood was pushed into the room. He fought desperately, throwing chairs and tables about, and falling flat on the ground.
"Let me alone," he cried, breathlessly. "I am tied already. I cannot escape."
Madame Danglars muttered a prayer of gratitude. No, that was not Benedetto's voice.
"Yes, we have got you," replied Jacob; "but the other one who took my horse has escaped! Would you believe it," he said, turning to the people, "that the other rascal ran off with my horse? While I was getting cord and nails I heard a noise in the courtyard. I ran to the spot, and saw two men getting on the backs of my horses. Quick as thought I pulled out my pistol and fired. One of them fell, but before I could load again the other had disappeared! But I shall get him, and may God have mercy on him. Quick, a glass of brandy, and may the devil take him!"
While the people crowded about Jacob, Madame Danglars drew near to the convict.
"Did Benedetto accompany you?" asked Madame Danglars, softly.
Anselmo looked up surprised.
"Ha! the lady who gave me the letter for Benedetto," he murmured.—"Yes, Benedetto accompanied me."
"I want to save him; help me, and I will make you rich."