had felt it imperative to change their headquarters, since they had
positive proof that their old stronghold was known to their enemies.

Here they were not in danger of surprise, for their men commanded every
outlet, and it must be a rare chance to take them by surprise.

Within a couple of hours of the arrival there of the two boy prisoners
and their captors, the whole of the band sauntered down in twos and
threes, until the vast host that they formed fairly amazed young Jack
and his companion.

"Let us fix a sum on them," said Toro, "so that their parents and
friends may release them if they wish."

This was approved of by one and all of his hearers.

There was only a single dissentient voice.

This was Hunston's.

"If you attempt to temporise," he said, "you will be beaten, for sure."

"Why?"

"Beaten by whom?"

"Harkaway."

"Bah!"