to conduct his operations. But he was
too cautious to begin just yet; so he waited, and at length had the
satisfaction of seeing these two go down-stairs and out of the castle.

And now at last the time had come. There was no eye to behold him, and no
one to suspect.

An old torch was in the fireplace. This he picked up, and then, going back
to the door, looked all around stealthily and warily. All was still.

Thereupon he returned. His manly heart was throbbing fast--violently, even
painfully. The sense of loneliness was oppressive. Had his purpose been
less important, he would certainly have turned and fled. But too much was
at stake. Before him there arose the vision of that vast treasure--thirty
thousand pounds--and its attraction was irresistible. He must go forward;
and now was the time to win, or never.

He stood for a moment gathering up his courage.

What if Rita should be concealed somewhere up there!

Such was the awful thought that suddenly occurred to him and made him
quail.

The idea suggested itself of going back to Harry and getting his aid. But
no, that would never do. He would let it be supposed that these bonds had
been taken from him. If he were to tell his secret to Harry, all would be
lost. No; he must go, and alone.

Once more he went to the door and listened. All was still.

He now nerved himself up for a supreme effort. If he were to delay any
longer, some of them would be sure to return. Now or never.

He struck a match against the stone floor. It kindled.

In another moment the torch was blazing brightly; and, holding this in one
hand, Russell used his other hand to clamber up the projecting stones.

Up he went, higher and higher.

And now he reached the opening, and his knee was resting upon it, and he
was just about to raise the torch so as to peer in.

At that instant there was a sudden rush, and a spring, that sent a thrill
of sharp agony to his heart. A pair of strong arms were flung about him.
The torch fell, and the smoke blinded his eyes. He felt himself dragged
forward helplessly into the gloomy hole, while a fierce whisper hissed
into his despairing ears words that made him almost die out of sheer
fright--

"Hah! base traidor, I haffa you! I haffa you! You salla not scappar from
Rita again!"

At this Russell gave a wild, long, piercing yell, and fainted.

CHAPTER LVII.

IN WHICH BROOKE AND TALBOT PREPARE TO BID EACH OTHER AN ETERNAL FAREWELL.

On turn