alone some time."

"For Heaven's sake, don't think of it!" Mrs. Cortlandt exclaimed.
"All the American influence on the Isthmus wouldn't help you then.
Fifty men would perjure themselves to convict you, and if you
succeeded in getting our government to interfere in time, Ramen
has fifty other men who would lie to any extent to injure an
American."

"No. That method doesn't work here," her husband agreed. "You're
lucky to escape so easily. He will arrange bail, never fear, and
you will probably not come to trial. I doubt if you will ever hear
anything more of the matter, provided you keep from further
trouble. He'll never forgive you, of course, but that won't matter
to you."

The first part of Mr. Cortlandt's prediction was soon proved true,
for the sick alcalde recovered sufficiently to appear on the scene
within half an hour. Then, after much signing of official
documents and certain other formalities, Kirk Anthony walked out
of the Colon jail in company with his friends.

Allan was waiting at a safe distance from the municipal building,
and on seeing his late companion at large he broke into the
wildest rejoicing. He conjured a flow of tears, he fondled Kirk's
hand in his own, he laughed, he sobbed, he sang.

"Praise be to God!" he cried, loudly. "Free mon you, Master
h'Auntony. Glory, glory! My soul was in 'ell, sar. On my knees I
h'implored that fa-ast wretch to release you."