Page:The silent prince - a story of the Netherlands (IA cu31924008716957).pdf/257

 was dying. He revealed the secret of this passage to me, and said that after his death I was the only living person aware of the existence of this secret exit from the prison. He confessed that he had committed many foul and bloody wrongs in this underground alley. Follow me, my son, without fear. I know every inch of the way."

Taking the candle they walked for quite a distance between narrow walls, and finally came upon an obstruction which seemed to Conrad to be incapable of removal. It proved to be an ingeniously contrived trap-door, which the priest, who seemed familiar with its workings, easily opened, and they came out into an open field.

"My plan for your escape is this," said Father Steen. "I will see that you pass the city gates in safety. A half mile beyond, in the clump of firs on the right, you will find a swift horse. Ride for your life till sunrise, but remain in concealment during the day. You will find provisions in the saddlebag, as well as a brace of pistols. A man will be guarding the horse, but when you give him the password, 'Loyola,' he will allow you to take the horse without any further conversation. The fellow is close-mouthed, and you do not need to fear that he will take you to be other than you appear—a Jesuit in good and regular standing."

"My kind, generous friend!" said Conrad, grasping the priest's hand. "Will not your noble