"They would scarcely do that unless they thought it was in danger of falling into our hands. Think of the handle it will give them against those who dare oppose them in Managuay. The unfortunate ones who made these affidavits will be marked men hereafter." Greg looked around the kitchen at the men who were awaiting the outcome of this talk, and looked back at Estuban. The corners of his mouth turned up with grim humor. "Let's go and get it," he said suddenly. Estuban's hand shot out to meet Greg's. "My idea, too," he said with satisfaction. "We have four good men here," Greg went on, "and a fifth is watching the house now. With the exception of de Socotra himself, that gang is not formidable. Their morale is poor. "What do you propose?" asked Estuban. "The simplest plan possible; to get into the house by force or by trickery, and hold them up. Are you armed?" Estuban nodded. "They got a gun from me on our last meeting. I'll see what there is in our outfit here." Greg and Estuban were talking low-voiced in a corner of the kitchen, while the others waited. All thought of sleep had been given up for this night. Even Bessie, infected by the general excitement, had yielded to their solicitations in so far as to prepare a small-hour supper. The clock had just struck three. "Boys," said Greg. "Are you game to turn another trick before daylight?" "Try us," said Bull, grinning. "Me and Blossom was done out of the best fun before," said Ginger. Greg briefly explained what had to be done. It appeared that their appetites were only whetted for danger. They jumped at the chance. Even Hickey, encouraged by the size of the attacking party perhaps, did not bewail his fate this time. It transpired that both Blossom and Bull possessed revolvers. Greg borrowed Blossom's and let Bull keep his, unloaded. "You won't mind if I empty out the shells?" he said. "Estuban and I feel that we ought to take the responsibility of any shooting that may be necessary." Bessie, who had taken everything in, disappeared into the store, and returned with a small object which she offered Greg. Said she: "If you're going to break into the house--mind, I didn't say I held by any such foolishness, but if you're going to do it anyway, better take my glass-cutter. It may come in handy." "Bessie, you've got a better head than any of us!" cried Greg--"or maybe you're more experienced in house-breaking." "Go along with you! Mind you bring it back safe. I can't sell window glass without something to cut it." When they were ready to start, Greg ran up-stairs to bid good-by to Amy. He told her what they designed to do. It was at the hour of the night when human vitality is at its ebb. The plucky lip trembled. "Must you?" she faltered. "On top of everything to-night?" "It must be at once, while he is off his guard. He does not yet know of your escape." "If I could only go too! But to wait here in suspense--how can I endure it?"