er 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."

"Wood's daughter, I suppose?" observed the other.

"You've hit it," answered Sheppard.

"What say you to carrying her off, Captain?" suggested Blueskin. "If
you've a fancy for the girl, we might do it."

"No--no," laughed Jack. "Bess wouldn't bear a rival. But if you wish to
do old Wood a friendly turn, you may bring his wife."

"I shouldn't mind ridding him of her," said Blueskin, gruffly; "and if
she comes in my way, may the devil seize me if I don't make short work
with her!"

"You forget," rejoined Jack, sternly, "I've just said I'll have no
violence--mind that."

With this, they dismounted; and fastening their horses to a tree,
proceeded towards the house. It was still so dark, that nothing could be
distinguished except the heavy masses of timber by which the premises
were surrounded; but as they advanced, lights were visible in some of
the windows. Presently they came to a wall, on the other side of which
the dog began to bark violently; but Blueskin tossed him a piece of
prepared meat, and uttering a low growl, he became silent. They then
clambered over a hedge, and scaling another wall, got into the garden at
the back of the house. Treading with noiseless step over the soft mould,
they soon reached the building. Arrived there, Jack felt about for a
particular window; and having discovered the object of his search, and
received the necessary implements from his companion, he instantly
commenced operations. In a few seconds, the shutter flew open,--then
the window,--and they were in the room. Jack now carefully closed the
shutters, while Blueskin struck a light, with which he set fire to a
candle. The room they were in was a sort of closet, with the door locked
outside; but this was only a moment's obstacle to Jack, who with a
chisel forced back the bolt. The operation was effected with so much
rapidity and so little noise, that even if any one had been on the
alert, he could scarcely have detected it. They then took off their
boots, and crept stealthily up stairs, treading upon the point of their
toes so cautiously, that not