"Neither," replied Coates, rather relieved by these questions.
"I suspect you are deceiving us, sir," said the major. "Your manner is confused. I am convinced you know more of this matter than you choose to explain; and if you do not satisfy me at once, fully and explicitly, I vow to Heaven——" and the major's sword described a glittering circle round his head.
"Are you privy to their concealment?" asked Ranulph. "Have you seen aught of them, or of Luke Bradley?"
"Speak, or this moment is your last," said the major.
"If it is my last, I cannot speak," returned Coates. "I can make neither head nor tail of your questions, gentlemen."
"And you positively assure me you have not seen Mrs. Mowbray and her daughter?" said Ranulph.
Turpin here winked at Coates. The attorney understood him.
"I don't positively assert that," faltered he.
"How!—you have seen them?" shouted Ranulph.
"Where are they?—in safety—speak!" added the major.