Chapter VI

The Escape



It was dark enough for their purpose in half an hour, the only gleam of
remaining color being the red glow of the negro's pipe, even the openings
in the iron grating being blotted from sight. Keith, staring in that
direction, failed to perceive any distant glimmer of star, and decided the
night must be cloudy, and that time for action had come. Guided by Neb's
pipe bowl, he touched the boy on the shoulder.

"Knock out your ashes, and shuffle about lively with your feet, while I
pry up the board."

In spite of his slenderness, Keith possessed unusual strength, yet no
exertion on his part served to start the loosened plank sufficiently for
their purpose. Ripping a strip from the bench he managed to pry the hole
somewhat larger, arranging the bench itself so as to afford the necessary
leverage, but even then his entire weight failed to either start the
spikes, or crack the plank. Some altercation began in the other room, the
sound of angry voices and shuffling feet being plainly audible. It was
clear to Keith that they must take the chance of a noise, and no better
time than this could be chosen.

"Here, Neb, take hold with me, and bear down--put your whole weight on it,
boy."