"Now then," the voice said in thick, husky tones, "stand by me, my lads. He's gone on there, and there's no getting back. One good, bold blow and we'll scotch him like a snake. Then fair share and share alike of all there is hidden away, and start straight. He's no good now, and the others'll join in when he's gone. Ready?" "Ay, ay!" came in hoarse, drunken tones; and as Humphrey felt himself pressed back into the pathway by which he had come, there was a staggering of feet, and a dull trampling, as about a dozen men passed on, leaving behind them the thick reek of hot, spirit-laden breath. "Now!" as the steps passed on. "Now," was whispered in Humphrey's ear; "this way." "Ah!" arose in a fierce growl, as some one of the party who had not gone on with the rest made a dash at and seized the buccaneer captain. "Prisoner! Who is it? Here, hi mates, I've--" He said no more. Without pause or thought why he did this--why he sought to save his companion--Humphrey Armstrong made a spring in the direction of the voice, his hands came in contact with a coarse bull throat, and its owner was driven backwards, to fall with his head striking a projecting piece of stone, dragging the buccaneer in the fall. The man was stunned, and lay perfectly inert as Humphrey and his companion struggled to their feet, panting with exertion, and listening for the return of the party who had gone on. But they had not heard the noise of the struggle, the maze-like turnings of the path had shut it out, and their voices came now muffled and soft, as if from a distance. Then Humphrey felt his hand gripped firmly. "This way." "What! Are you going to take me back to prison?" said Humphrey mockingly. "Do you wish to go straight to death?" "I am going straight to liberty!" cried Humphrey. "This way, then," whispered his companion; and without a word Humphrey allowed himself to be led back along the dark arcade, listening to the heavy panting of his guide, who seemed to be breathing heavily, and as if in pain. For some time no word was spoken. Then, as he became aware of his companion's purpose, Humphrey stopped short. "You are leading me back to that cursed prison," he said fiercely. "Loose my hand." "I am leading you to the only place where you will be safe," was whispered back. "Have I not suffered enough, man? Do you think I wish to die with the knowledge that, these dogs will seize and rend you in their drunken frenzy?" "Rend me!" "Yes. They have risen. That wretch, whom I have spared so long in my weak folly, is at their head. Humphrey Armstrong, believe me, I am trying to save your life!" "Then why not make for the shore? A boat! Give me a boat and let me go!"