"Mr. Coates!" exclaimed Ranulph, in surprise. "What do you here, sir?"
"I—I—that is—Sir Ranulph—you must excuse me, sir—particular business—can't say," returned the trembling attorney; for at this instant his eye caught that of Turpin, and the ominous reflexion of a polished-steel barrel, held carelessly towards him. He was aware, also, that on the other hand he was, in like manner, the mark of Rust and Wilder; those polite gentlemen having threatened him with a brace of slugs in his brain if he dared to betray their hiding-place. "It is necessary that I should be guarded in my answers," murmured he.
"Is there any one within that place besides yourself?" said the major, making a movement thither.
"No, sir, nobody at all," answered Coates, hastily, fancying at the same time that he heard the click of the pistol that was to be his death-warrant.
"How came you here, sir?" demanded Ranulph.
"Do you mean in this identical spot?" replied Coates, evasively.
"You can have no difficulty in answering that question," said the major, sternly.
"Pardon me, sir. I find considerable difficulty in answering any question, situated as I am."
"Have you seen Miss Mowbray?" asked Ranulph, eagerly.
"Or my mother?" said the major, in the same breath.