"And disappoint Mr. Wild, Captain?" remonstrated the other, in a deferential tone. "You know this is a pet project. It might be dangerous to thwart him."
"Pish!" cried Jack: "I don't value his anger a straw. All our fraternity are afraid of him; but I laugh at his threats. He daren't quarrel with me: and if he does, let him look to himself. I've my own reasons for disliking this job."
"Well, you know I always act under your orders, Captain," returned Blueskin; "and if you give the word to retreat, I shall obey, of course: but I know what Edgeworth Bess will say when we go home empty-handed."
"Why what will she say?" inquired Sheppard.
"That we were afraid," replied the other; "but never mind her."
"Ay; but I do mind her," cried Jack upon whom his comrade's observation had produced the desired effect. "We'll do it."
"That's right, Captain," rejoined Blueskin. "You pledged yourself to Mr. Wild—"
"I did," interrupted Jack; "and I never yet broke an engagement. Though a thief, Jack Sheppard is a man of his word."
"To be sure he is," acquiesced Blueskin. "I should like to meet the man who would dare to gainsay it."
"One word before we begin, Blueskin," said Jack, authoritatively; "in case the family should be alarmed—mind, no violence. There's one person in the house whom I wouldn't frighten for the world."