“I gave you the option of a Virginia prison for conspiracy to murder, or a run for your life in your own boat beyond the Capes. You have chosen the second alternative; if you care to change your decision—”
Oscar gathered up the reins and waited for the word. Claiborne held his watch to the lantern.
“We must not miss our train, my dear Jules!” said Durand.
“Bah, Claiborne! this is ungenerous of you. You know well enough this is an unlawful proceeding—kidnapping us this way—without opportunity for counsel.”
“And without benefit of clergy,” laughed Claiborne. “Is it a dash for the sea, or the nearest county jail? If you want to tackle the American courts, we have nothing to venture. The Winkelried crowd are safe behind the bars in Vienna, and publicity can do us no harm.”
“Drive on!” ejaculated Chauvenet.
As the buckboard started, Baron von Marhof and Judge Claiborne rode up, and watched the departure from their saddles.
“That’s the end of one chapter,” remarked Judge Claiborne.
“They’re glad enough to go,” said Dick. “What’s the latest word from Vienna?”
“The conspirators were taken quietly; about one hundred arrests have been made in all, and the Hungarian uprising has played out utterly—thanks to Mr. John Armitage,” and the Baron sighed and turned toward the bungalow.