For a moment the Secretary hesitated—then, as if suddenly making up his mind, he said—
“Come, I am with you heart and soul!”
“Lead to the place of execution—quick,” cried Mark.
“We will take the prison in passing,” said his companion, grasping the spear and hastening onward.
The prison was soon reached. The guards were a little surprised at the change of the bearer, but no one dared to think of opposing the passage of the well-known and awful emblem of office!
“Come, Hockins, Ebony, Laihova, follow us,” cried Mark, springing in.
He did not wait to explain. The Secretary, acting his part well, stalked with grand solemnity down the streets towards the western gate of the city. His four friends followed. Every one made way. Hockins and the negro, not knowing what they might be called on to do, took the first opportunity that presented, each to seize and carry off a garden-stake, as a substitute for cudgel or quarter-staff.
The guards, as before, let them pass without question. Once outside the town they quickened their pace, and finally ran.
“We may be too late!” gasped Mark.
“It may be so—but we have not far to go.” As he spoke they distinguished sounds as of men engaged in a struggle. On turning a point of rock they came in sight of a party of twelve soldiers. They were struggling fiercely with one man, whom they tried to bind. But the man seemed to possess the power of Samson.