Directly Jack and Bates heard this ominous name, they dashed out of the room just as the impatient soldiers were bursting open the heavy, oaken door. “Fly,” said Jack, dashing out into the back yard, “fly for your life, Bates, ’tis the colonel himself; fly, fly!” CHAPTER XL. IN WHICH THE SKELETON CREW ARE VERY BUSY, AND MAKE A RICH HAUL OF PLUNDER, LED ON BY DEATH-WING AND PHILLIP REDGILL. “What would you have done without me?” said Death-wing to Phillip Redgill, when they were once more alone, and in confidential conversation. “Why, I must have been hung, I suppose,” said Phillip, with an attempt at a smile. “A prospect you much liked, I know.” “Well, it must have been, had not your men rescued me.” “I know it, and yet all through your career of villany you have looked upon me and my band as hardfisted, ungrateful scoundrels—I know you have.” “Not so bad as that, quite.” “Oh, yes, you have. I have heard and know more than you imagine about your doings about town. Had you not taken our oath years ago, not all England could have saved you from gracing a gallows.” “Well, I know it, and am glad I _did_ take the oath, but what do you require of me now?” “Nay, we do not want you—it is you who need us.” “How do you mean?” “Have you forgotten your wife—is there not vengeance in your heart against Fumbleton, who has taken her from you?” “There is, and against others besides him.” “Who?” “The two young Warbecks.” “And no one else?” “Yes, against old Sir Richard himself.” “Do you contemplate killing them?” “I do.” “But how?” “Through your aid, Death-wing.” “And the price?” “Half of all the estates which fall to me—Darlington Hall and all its fair domains.” “But can you get them all at one stroke?” “I can, for if these brats, Charley and Ned, are put out of the way, I am the sole heir, as I have said before.” “Then, so be it—it shall be done,” said the grim chief, “but not yet.” “Why not?” “You must become a member of the Crew first—an active member, I mean—and then we can talk about it.” “I am willing.” “Then to try your courage, I will soon find fitting opportunities. Are you a good shot?” “Capital.” “And can handle your sword?” “Like any gentleman.” “’Tis well, but——” He was about to say more, when two of the Crew entered the room. “Well,” said Death-wing to them, “have you followed him?” “Yes, both night and day.” “What news?” “He has found favour with the Dozen again, and to-night they have robbed Colonel Blood’s house of all its wealth.” “And escaped?” “Yes.” “You followed them?” “We did, and saw where they deposited their plunder.” “Very good. What else?” “They carried off Ellen Harmer with them, and Captain Jack is now in possession of the King’s signet ring.” “Impossible!” “No, Death-wing, it is quite correct.” “How do you know?” “I was in Captain Jack’s company to-night, and saw the ring upon his red, fat finger.” “Explain yourself.”