Page:Augusta Seaman--Jacqueline of the carrier pigeons.djvu/230

204 recognized in an instant the features  of Alonzo de Rova! Immediately a plan formed itself in his mind.

“Jacqueline,” he whispered, “it is a big risk, but I’m going to take the chance! He half-promised to help me if ever I needed it. Now we will see! The yard is deserted and I will try to attract his attention.” Suiting  the action to the word, he gave a low whistle,  and the soldier looked up. Seeing this strange, horribly spotted face at the window,  he uttered a startled exclamation:

“By St. Lawrence! what dost thou want with me? Art thou the plague-stricken boy Dirk Willumhoog is keeping for some unknown purpose?”

“Yes,” answered Gysbert in a low tone. “Dost thou not remember the little Glipper lad who drew thy portrait?”

“By the Pope! I do!” replied Alonzo. “Surely thou art not he!”

“I am,” said Gysbert. “Wilt thou help me? If so, ask to come up and see me.”