Moppet, as you
came by the north door, whom did you see on guard in the hall?"
"Josiah Huntington," said Moppet promptly; "but you heard what Oliver
said at supper?"
"Yes," answered Betty, "Oliver was so weary that Josiah was to watch
until twelve o'clock; then, at midnight, Reuben was to guard the hall
until four in the morning, when Oliver would take his place until
breakfast. Did you note the time on the hall clock?"
"It was half past eleven," said Moppet; "the half hour sounded as I
rapped."
Betty sat pondering for a moment, then she slid Moppet gently from her
lap to the floor and rose.
"Moppet," she said gravely, "you are a little maid, but you have a true
heart, and I believe you can keep a secret. I am going to try to release
Captain Yorke, and I think you can help me. I bind you to keep silent,
except to our dear and honored father, and even to him you shall not
speak until I permit you. Promise me, dear heart?"
"I promise," said Moppet solemnly, and Betty knew that, no matter what
happened, she could depend on her devoted little sister.
"Moppet," said Betty, "I have a plan, but 'tis a slender one. Do you
recollect how close the great elm-tree boughs come to your window?"
"I can put out my hand and nearly reach them," said Moppet; "you
remember Reuben cut the bough nearest, but oh, Betty, the tree has a
limb which runs an arm's length only from the north chamber.
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