WE CAPTURE THE HOUSE If she was startled and frightened before, she was doubly so now at this sudden revolt on my part.

But I had no time then for explanation, only for the stern exercising of authority.

If I was right, if deep down in the girl's heart there was love for me, she would forgive this action as soon as she realized its purpose--aye! she would respect me the more for daring the deed.
"Don't attempt to interfere now, my girl; go over to the big chair and sit down." My revolver was in my hand, and she saw it, her eyes wide open.
"You--you are not going to hurt them ?" "No, not if they use any sense, but this is not going to be boys' play.
Will you do as I say ?" She sat down, gripping the arms of the chair, and leaning forward, half inclined to scream, yet afraid to utter a sound.

Without taking my eyes from her, I slipped across the room to where I would be partially concealed as the door opened.

I knew what I was going to do, or, at least, attempt to do, and realized fully the risk I ran, and the chance of failure.