If War isn't declared, it mighty soon will be. Take notice!"

Bill Varco disappeared, sharp on the word. Nicky-Nan paused a
moment, hobbled back to bed and sat on the edge of it, steadying
himself, yet half-awake.

"It's some trick of Pamphlett's to get me out," he decided, and went
downstairs cautiously.



CHAPTER III.


HOW THE MEN WENT.


In the passage he found Mrs Penhaligon standing, alone, rigid as a
statue. By her attitude she seemed to be listening. Yet she had
either missed to hear or, hearing, had missed to understand Varco's
call up the stairs. At Nicky-Nan's footstep she turned, with a face
white and set.

"Sam's got to go," she said. Her lips twitched.

"Nonsense, woman! Some person's playin' a trick 'pon the town."

"They start from the bridge at ten-thirty. There's no trick about
it. Go an' see for yourself." She motioned with her hand.