Page:Old ninety-nine's cave.djvu/233

 to spare. No one had ever been hung in Ulster County—his enemies hinted, much to his regret.

This morning he was positively affable and, after briefly delivering many messages to Jack, turned toward Watson inquiringly.

The latter's plan seemed a good one, so, leaving his horse, Jack proceeded at once to the mine. Reaching the shaft, who should spring lightly from the bucket but Mills himself! Instantly his glance fell on Jack, he threw his arms around him in an ecstasy of delight, overwhelming him with solicitous questions. "Oh, my dear boy!" he said, wiping his eyes, "forgive this emotion. Such unexpected pleasure completely unnerves me!"

Jack shook him rudely off, throwing up his right hand as he did so; and while Mills was still wiping his eyes, Sheriff Smith's hand was laid on his shoulder and the words, "You are my prisoner!" quickly dried his tears. Turning toward the miners who had collected near, he said in an abused tone,—"Friends, what is the meaning of this?"