These three keepers came with an order correctly drawn, and signed by
Richard Bassett, to deliver Sir Charles to the agents showing the
order.
Suaby, who had a horror of Burdoch, turned pale at the sight of the
order, and took it to Rolfe.
"Resist!" said that worthy.
"I have no right."
"On second thoughts, do nothing, but gain time, while I--Has Bassett
paid you for Sir Charles's board?"
"No."
"Decline to give him up till that is done, and be some time making out
the bill. Come what may, pray keep Sir Charles here till I send you a
note that I am ready."
He then hastened to Sir Charles and unfolded his plans, to him.
Sir Charles assented eagerly. He was quite willing to run risks with
the hope of immediate liberation, which Rolfe held out. His own part
was to delay and put off till he got a line from Rolfe.
Rolfe then borrowed Vandeleur on parole and the doctor's dog-cart, and
dashed into the town, distant two miles.
First he went to the little theater, and found them just concluding a
rehearsal. Being a playwright, he was known to nearly all the people,
more or less, and got five supers and one carpenter to join him--for a
consideration.
He then made other arrangements in the town, the nature of which will
appear in due course.
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