A breathless pause marked the deep interest of the listeners.

A few moments of suspense, in which Lyon and his companion grew deadly pale, and then the noisy footsteps were silenced at their very door.

A smothered sound of voices was followed by a trial of the lock, and then by a decided rapping.

But no answer was made to the summons.
Noiselessly, Mr.Lyon drew from a deep side-pocket a loaded revolver; but the hand of his companion was laid quickly upon his arm, and his lips, in dumb show, gave the word-- "Madness!" Lyon shook him off, and deliberately pointed his weapon toward the door.
"Hallo, there! Are you asleep ?" This loud call came after repeated knocking and rattling.

But there was no response, nor the slightest indication of life within the chamber.
"They are here, I am certain." These words were distinctly heard by the anxious inmates.
"Then we must break in the door," was resolutely answered.
"Oh, for heaven's sake, put up that pistol!" hoarsely whispered Leach.