Page:The Mysterious Warning - Parsons (1796, volume 1).djvu/265

 "Is there no way of getting off those chains?" said Ferdinand.

"Only by a key or a file," answered the man.

"Have patience, my good friends," returned Ferdinand; "I will return, and seek for something that may answer the purpose."

"Yes," added Francis, darting out first, lest he should be asked to stay there, "we will find something I warrant you."

Notwithstanding the extreme agitation of Ferdinand's mind, he could not choose, but observe the great alacrity with which Francis hastened his steps. When they had reached the library, they searched about for a file; nothing of that kind was to be seen, but they found two odd constructed keys, which they supposed might belong to the chains; having recruited the fire with wood, taking a bottle of wine, their keys, and two or three old knives, they soon returned to the wretched prisoners, and to their great joy found they could relieve them from their chains. Ferdinand supported the woman into the next