"Some one fancied he had a better chance by slipping off than in remaining here, and has looked after his own safety.

I wish I knew who it was." "We can soon find out," remarked Capt.

Asbury; "our men are not too numerous for me to forget their names and voices." He raised his tones and summoned them.
"I don't believe they will attempt to fire the house as long as the ladies are with us," he exclaimed; "some one of our party has been cowardly enough to sneak off.

As I call your names, answer." He proved the truth of what he said.

He had eight companions, not counting Hawkridge and Sterry.