"It's no good," said Meagle seriously; "there's something wrong about
that sleep."

"That's what I meant," said Lester; "and if he goes to sleep like that,
why shouldn't----"

Meagle sprang to his feet. "Nonsense," he said roughly. "He's tired
out; that's all. Still, let's take him up and clear out. You take his
legs and Barnes will lead the way with the candle. Yes? Who's that?"

He looked up quickly towards the door. "Thought I heard somebody tap,"
he said with a shamefaced laugh. "Now, Lester, up with him. One, two--
Lester! Lester!"

He sprang forward too late; Lester, with his face buried in his arms, had
rolled over on the floor fast asleep, and his utmost efforts failed to
awaken him.

"He--is--asleep," he stammered. "'Asleep!"

Barnes, who had taken the candle from the mantel-piece, stood peering at
the sleepers in silence and dropping tallow over the floor.

[Illustration: "Barnes, stood peering at the sleepers in silence and
dropping tallow over the floor."]

"We must get out of this," said Meagle. "Quick!" Barnes hesitated. "We
can't leave them here--" he began.