The decision steadied her.
“I may as well go to bed,” she continued, “but I’ll keep the bolt on the door. He’ll be fit to choke me when he comes home if he’s happened across Jagger!”
Meantime Jagger, having taken rapid counsel with himself and Hannah, had determined to consult his father, who had already gone upstairs and was ready for bed.
“I thought I heard voices beneath t’ window,” he remarked when Jagger had told his story. “And what do you reckon to make out o’ t’ job?”
“I make naught out,” he replied firmly, “but I’ll go and see what’s to be made out on t’ spot.”
“Then you’ve no theory?” Maniwel was drawing on his trousers as he spoke; and instead of answering Jagger inquired what his father was dressing for.
“ ’Cause I’m going wi’ you,” he replied; “and it’s as Nancy says, there’s no time to lose.”
“You going?” Jagger asked in amazement. “What call is there for you to go? You don’t think I’m afraid o’ t’ chap, do you? I shall be easier i’ my mind if you’re safe i’ bed.”
“I’m going wi’ you,” his father repeated. “There’s things to be said ’at it’ll save time to say on t’ road.”
“But——” began Jagger. He was uneasy at the thought of leaving his father below whilst he climbed the rocks.