We went back to the cottage and gave implicit instructions to Margaret and Rita how they were to handle the prisoner. Neither of them was in an easy frame of mind, and I feared considerably for their ability to stand the test and keep away from the log hut. But the minister retained the key, so that nothing short of tearing the place down would let Andrew Clark out.
Next day, late in the afternoon, the minister called in for me and we sailed over to the ranch.
Margaret, though sorely tempted, had kept religiously away from her husband; but, already, she had a variety of foodstuffs cooked and waiting his anticipated release.
We went over to the barn and the minister rapped on the door.
"Are you there, Andrew?"
No answer.
"Andrew Clark,—are you there?"
Still no response.
I looked though the boarded window. The old Scot was standing with his back to us in a studied attitude.
Once more the minister spoke, but still he received no answer.