"You've got him?" demanded Ireton.
"Safe inside," replied the chairman, wiping the heat from his brow; "we've run all the way."
"Where's Mr. Shotbolt?" asked Austin.
"The gen'l'man'll be here directly. He was detained. T' other gen'l'man said the letter 'ud explain all."
"Detained!" echoed Marvel. "That's odd. But, let's see the prisoner."
The chair was then opened.
"Shotbolt! by—" cried Austin, as the captive was dragged forth. "I've won, after all."
Exclamations of wonder burst from all. Mrs. Spurling bit her lips to conceal her mirth. Caliban absolutely crowed with delight.
"Hear the letter," said Ireton, breaking the seal. "'This is the way in which I will serve all who attempt to apprehend me.' It is signed JACK SHEPPARD."
"And, so Jack Sheppard has sent back Shotbolt in this pickle," said Langley.