"Give us some water," begged Tomlinson.
There was a canteen lying on the floor. Matt picked it up, found that it was full, and uncapped it and held it to Tomlinson's lips.
"The villains that brought us here," spoke up the chauffeur, "left that canteen, but they never stopped to figure out how we were to get at it with our hands tied."
"They were willing, Gregory," said Tomlinson, "to let us starve and die, right here. I never thought a set of men could be such inhuman wretches. But who are you, young man?"
"My name is King, Matt King," replied the youth.
"You say that by a stroke of luck you were able to get my pearls and find out where I had been left? I wish you would explain how——"
"I haven't time to explain anything, just now, as we may be interfered with by the robbers at any moment. They have stolen a fast motor-car and are chasing us. If you and your chauffeur are able to walk, Mr. Tomlinson, we'd better get to the west road as soon as we can. The thieves——"
A noise at the door caused Matt to whirl in that direction. He was astounded to see Spangler standing in the entrance.