"Open the gate," she heard one of them say.
His companion went to it and vainly tried to pull it open. "It's padlocked," he exclaimed, after a minute.
The other muttered an angry oath. "Pick it!" he cried. "They've put up a job on us here. I knew we didn't cut that wire quick enough."
It was a minute before the burglar's skill could pick the lock, and by that time the pursuing wagon was dangerously near.
"Open the gate!" shouted the first man, pulling back his horse to escape its sweep.
The other pushed, and the great bar swung slowly back. But before it had opened wide enough to let them through, the other wagon had dashed in upon the scene.
"Stand where you are," Jennie heard Mr. Allen's voice call out, "or I'll shoot you down!"
What immediately followed Jennie did not see, for leaving the window, she rushed down-stairs, lit the lantern, rolled back the bureau, unlocked the door, and went out. When she had gained the road, the two burglars, captured and tied, were being guarded by the constables, while Mr. Allen was investigating the contents of the wagon, and making sure as far as he could in the darkness that all was right. At Jennie's approach he looked up.
"Ah!" he said. "Are you the toll-gate keeper's daughter? Just ask your father to step out here, won't you?"
Jennie smiled. "Father isn't at home, sir," she said.