Page:The silent prince - a story of the Netherlands (IA cu31924008716957).pdf/256

 like a felon. Conrad Chenoweth, you saved my life once. I have come to save yours. There is no time to waste in words. Attire yourself in this suit as quickly as possible."

He handed the young man the long black robe and cowl of a priest. When Conrad had donned the suit the Jesuit said briefly,

"Now follow me!"

"Where?"

For answer, the priest took the candle and walked to the farther side of the dungeon and examined intently the solid wall of stone masonry. He passed his fingers slowly along the huge blocks of stone. Presently he found a slight depression in the rock, and using his strength he bore down upon this spot, but without any result.

"Give me the benefit of your youthful muscle," he said to the young man. "As I press this spring, bear down with your shoulder upon this block of stone."

The spring had evidently grown rusty from disuse, and it took several attempts with the united strength of both men before the massive block slid from its position and revealed a narrow passage beyond.

"How came you to know of this means of exit?" inquired Conrad.

The priest smiled. "Some ten years ago I was called to confess the head jailer of this prison, who