"We have orders to open to none to-night, and we cannot choose but obey," replied Tonie firmly.
"It is so," said Blonda; "we are but children, and we cannot choose but obey."
There was the sound of a muttered oath from Dorlat, and an impatient exclamation from Hervitz. Then the latter said,—
"By fair means or foul, ye obstinate brats, we purpose to enter; so understand this once for all. If you let us in without hindrance, no harm shall come to either of you, or to your father's goods; but if we have to break in and help ourselves, then beware, for in truth we will not spare you."
To this Tonie was about to reply, but Blonda whispered, "Answer him not; let us rather think what we shall do if the men find means to enter. The money must be saved at all costs."
"Ay, but how? There is not a place here in which we could hide it where the men will not search if once they get in. No; we must get it away somehow."
"Could we not run to Carfoos with it?" suggested Blonda anxiously.
"Too far," rejoined Tonie; "besides, we might be overtaken and robbed. Yes; that cannot be thought of, but, perhaps—"
Just then came a thundering knock with an axe upon the door. The wood cracked; the iron of the lock rang again.
The children stood staring at each other, seeming rooted to the floor in their terror.