40 FOR THE FLAG

“T drew them back during my walk behind the trees
at the foot of the garden, without being observed by the
Principal.” :

Count d’Artigas went ip to the door and said, “It is
locked.”

“ Here is the key,” replied his companion, and he pre-
sented the key which he had taken out of the door after he
‘had freed the bolts from their staple.

‘“ You have done well, Spade,” said the Count. “ Pro-
bably the adventure will not present many difficulties.
Let us get back to the schooner. About eight o'clock,
when it becomes dark, one of the boats will land you with
five men—”

“Ves, five men. They will be enough in case the
keeper is troublesome and we may have to get rid of
him.” :

“Get rid of him—” the Count replied. “Very well, if
that is absolutely necessary—but it would be bettcr to
secure this Gaydon and take him on board the dda.
Who knows whether he has not already got at a pait
of the secret.”

“ That is true.”

sf And then, Roch is accustomed to him; and I do not
intend anything to be changed about him.”

This reply, Count d’Artigas accompanied with a smile
so significant that the Captain could make no mistake
about the part to be played by the Healthful House
employé.

The plan of this double abduction was then decided