"We are desperate men."
"Yes," Havisham said thoughtfully; "it is the best chance for that escape of which we all dream, and which two of our number, I see, have attempted in vain. I had set to-morrow night for my own attempt. This promises better."
"Yea," said Porringer, "the stars in their courses fight against the refugee! Four times have I tried, to be retaken, and handled, as you see. Twice has this man tried and failed. And the murderer of Robert Godwyn failed."
"That remains to be seen," said Trail. "Roach has broken gaol."
The Muggletonian exclaimed, and Landless turned upon the forger. "How do you know?" he asked sternly.
"I heard," was the smooth reply.
"I am sorry for it," said Landless grimly, and stood with a sternly thoughtful countenance.
There was a silence in the tobacco house broken by Havisham.
"And now—for time passes and the overseer may come and find us not at our tasks—tell me the day upon which we are to rise, and the place to which all are to resort."
"Both are close at hand," said Landless slowly. "The day is—" he broke off and leaned forward, staring through the dusk.