“Why, waylay him and give him a sly poke in the ribs; for if he’s not put out of the way soon, all of us will be hung, one by one, when he’s served his turn with each.” “That’s my idea, and also the opinion of every man in the Dozen.” “Look you here,” said Jack, suddenly brightening up, “if the colonel has made up his mind to act in such a rascally manner towards me, I can do so towards him.” “What do you mean?” said old Bates, pricking up his ears. “Why, I mean that there is a secret about him he little dreams I know anything about.” “Ah, indeed! what is it, then?” “It’s worth a great deal of money,” said Jack, winking. “How much?” “Why, £500.” “I don’t understand.” “Of course you don’t, but I do.” “Then out with it.” “Secresy and honour,” said Jack. “Yes, of course.” “Well, then, read this,” said Jack, pulling out of his pocket a printed proclamation, which he placed before the wondering eyes of Tom Bates. “You read it; there it is.” C. R. [Illustration: Crown] ATTEMPTED ATTEMPTED MURDER! £300 REWARD! MURDER! “WHEREAS an atrocious attempt at murder has been made upon the accepted suitor of one Ellen Harmer, the daughter of the miller at Darlington. “And whereas, by a most miraculous chance, the body of the unfortunate youth, Andrew, was timely discovered in the river, and resuscitated. “Therefore, the above reward of “£300 “will be paid to any person or persons who shall give such information as shall lead to the discovery or apprehension of the offender or offenders. “The unfortunate young man was severely wounded, and the shock has been so great that his reason is for the time being lost to him. “The village authorities of Darlington, on the night of the attempted murder, noticed the arrival in the neighbourhood of a carriage and four. “The person suspected had a servant attending him during the three hours he remained in the village. His master, the supposed culprit, was traced to London, and from all accounts bears the following description:— “About 35 years of age; 5 feet 8 or 9 inches in height; thick set and powerfully made; black moustache; whiskers (supposed to be false); close cut hair; wore a cloak, and had the appearance of a military man.” “Why that description,” said Bates, looking at Jack in surprise, “corresponds to—” “Blood!” said Jack, in a hoarse whisper. “You surprise me.” “Does it? but wait, I’m not done yet,” said Jack, “since he has commenced his games with me, he’ll find a tougher fellow to deal with than he expects. Look at this.” “Another proclamation!” said Bates, in wonder. “Yes, read it, and then you’ll find out that I have got my enemy fairly on the hip.” Bates unfolded the printed paper and read:— C. ABDUCTION! [Illustration: Crown] R. ABDUCTION! £200 REWARD!