“Very well; lead the way, and we will follow.”
All proceeded toward the wretch, who glared savagely at them.
Dora and her aunt, too, drew near, and soon the others about the room gathered around to hear what was going on.
In the back part of the room and watching with a piercing eye every movement that was made, sat a tall, slender figure, enveloped in a heavy cloak, with its hood drawn close around her face. No one seemed to notice her presence, nor had she moved from her seat since she entered the place. She had quietly followed one file of men when they entered, and seated herself near the entrance.
Now she suddenly rose and drew near the group surrounding the squire, and listened eagerly to every word that was spoken.
Jake Toleman, as he called himself, stepped forward in front of Squire Moulton and said:
“Do you know me, sir?”
“Curse you, no, only as a smuggler, who was paid to do my will; nor do I wish to know you,” he growled.
“I can easily believe the latter part of your reply,” replied the man, grimly, then added, “but the first part I deny. Look!”
He pulled off his heavy wig and whiskers as he spoke.