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62 a terrific yell from the wilderness, as if uttered by midnight demons who revelled in the dark. The blood ran cold in the veins of the listeners as the horrible sound fell on their ears.

"Again, again, my men, once more [raise] your voices, and louder than ever," shouted Madhav, apprehensive lest the appalling sound chilled the courage of his retainers. Again was the order obeyed with zeal and promptness, and again arose a responsive cry from the direction of the "old garden." But this time it was the cooing cry known among robbers as the signal of retreat.

"They fly; they fly; they fly," shouted several voices, "that is the cry of flight."

"Yes, but do not be too sure," said Madhav, "it may have been uttered to deceive you. Remain as you are."

Long did Madhav and his men wait, but nothing occurred. After another injunction to his retainers not to relax their vigilance and to keep up all night, Madhav turned his steps towards the inner apartments to thank the brave woman who had saved him from imminent danger.