He took her hand in a tight clasp, implying that whatever happened they would face it together.
"Keep 'em there for the present," growled the man who seemed to be the spokesman, and then he and the other man went away, leaving the children in care of the three gypsy women.
Although apparently the women paid little attention to their young prisoners, King and Midget could easily see that the eyes of their jailers were ever alert, and watching their slightest movement.

Had they tried to cut and run, they would have been caught before they reached the door.

But no heed was paid when they whispered together, and so they were able to hold a long conversation which was unheard, and even unnoticed by the others.
"You know, Mops, what has happened ?" whispered King.
"No, I don't; what do they want of us ?" "Why, we're kidnapped and held for ransom.

Those men have probably gone out now to send letters to Father about the ransom money." "Oh, then Father'll pay it, and we'll get away." "It isn't so easy as that.

They have lots of fussing back and forth.