ntleman at any time," replied Sterry,
quickly seizing the opportunity of bringing himself near enough to
hear what Vesey said without any one else noting it. As he was passing
out the rustler remarked, in a quick undertone:

"I did my best, old fellow, but it won't work; they suspect something,
and wouldn't let me go near the stable after dark. Sorry, but it's no
use."

"But I thank you all the same," guardedly responded Sterry.

CHAPTER XXXII.

THE HOSTAGE.

Despite the alarm caused by the sudden illness of Mrs. Whitney, it was
quickly apparent that nothing serious was the matter with her.

She had succumbed temporarily to the intense strain to which she
had been subjected, and, under the considerate attention shown her,
speedily rallied, declaring herself, within five minutes after the
departure of Vesey, as well as ever.

"No one can rejoice more than I," observed Capt. Asbury; "and, since
it is so trifling, you will not misunderstand me when I say that your
illness seems to have been providential."

Fred and the rest looked inquiringly at the leader.

"The man who was here has gone back with the report of what he saw,
and I think my words will cause him to represent the case--well,"
added the captain, with a smile, "as it appeared at that moment. That
will secure further delay."

"But what can it all amount to?" asked Fred in turn; "they may give
you a half-hour or so, but that does not count."

"If your estimable mother could manage to--ah--look desperately ill
when the messenger returns, why, it might help matters."

But the good woman shook her head. Appreciating the gravity of the
situation, she could not be a party to such a deception, even though
beneficent results might follow.

"He saw me as I was, and thus he must see me when he comes again. My
conscience would not permit it otherwise."

"You are right, Mrs. Whitney, and I beg your pardon," replied the
captain.

Meanwhile, Monteith Sterry was thinking hard. Begging the indulgence
of the others, he drew Capt. Asbury aside.

"I have decided upon an attempt," said he abruptly, "which you must
not forbid, even though your judgment may condemn it."

"What is it?"

"I am going to try to get away."

"How?" was the surprised question; "what chance have you of
succeeding, when every side of the house is watched?"

"Vesey told me, just as he was leaving, that he was not allowed to
take his place as guard at the stables, which explai