We'll catch him yet; ah, then we'll not trouble judge, nor jury, nor hangman neether." "The wretches!" said Monckton.

"What! fire a mine! No punishment is enough for them." With this sentiment he retired, and never went near the mine again.

He wired for a pal of his and established him at the Dun Cow.
These two were in constant communication.

Monckton's friend was a very clever gossip, and knew how to question without seeming curious, and the gossiping landlady helped him.

So, between them, Monckton heard that Walter was down with a fever and not expected to live, and that Hope was confined to his bed and believed to be sinking.