XII — Escape
Simon was in quandary — he could not see any guards, but did not know if it was better to go up and speak to Rex, or wait till the latter saw him; either way there seemed to be the risk that Rex might give the show away in his surprise. The problem was solved by the American turning round, and Simon saw that he had been recognized. Rex kept his head — he did not stand up at once, he played two more rounds of dice, and then, getting lazily to his feet, strolled out of the room.
Simon followed him slowly — he found Van Ryn eagerly waiting for him round the corner of the building, none of the other prisoners was in sight.
“Say, boy!” Rex exclaimed, seizing his shoulders in an almost painful grip. “If this isn’t just marvellous! I’ll tell the world, I never thought to see you in this Godforsaken quarter of the globe.”
Simon grinned, delighted. “See too much of me if you’re not careful — I’ll be in there playing dice with you.”
“How in heck d’you make this place? It’s in their darned forbidden territory — but I reckon you’ll be wise to that!”
“Two trains and a stolen sleigh,” Simon chuckled.
“Good for you! The Duke’ll have got my chit, I guess.”
“Yes, he’s here, too — in the local synagogue!”
“Holy smoke!” Rex shook with silent laughter.