His fiery spirit seemed to be crushed out of him.
"What is it your pleasure that we should do, sir ?" said Bessie at last.
"Perhaps, now that we are ruined, you will allow us to go to Natal, which, I suppose, is still an English country ?" "Yes, Miss Bessie, Natal is still English--for the present; soon it will be Dutch; but I am sorry that I cannot let you go there now.

My orders are to keep you both prisoners and to try your uncle by court-martial.
The waggon-house," he went on quickly, "with the two little rooms on each side of it, have not been touched by the fire.

They shall be made ready for you, and as soon as the heat is less you can go there;" and, turning to his men who had followed him, he gave some rapid orders, which two of them departed to carry out.
Still the old man made no comment; he did not even seem indignant or surprised; but poor Bessie was utterly prostrated, and stood helpless, not knowing what to say to this terrible, remorseless man, who stood so calm and unmoved before them.
Frank Muller paused awhile to think, stroking his golden beard, then he turned again and addressed the two other men who stood behind him.
"You will keep guard over the prisoner," indicating Silas Croft, "and suffer none to communicate with him by word or sign.

As soon as it is is ready you will place him in the little room to the left of the waggon-house, and see that he is supplied with all he wants.

If he escapes or converses, or is ill treated, I will hold you responsible.