Clearing the recess the instant after his companion, he flew to the door of the inner room, and, locking it, took out the key.

The policy of this step was immediately apparent.

Alarmed by the noise of the scuffle, Quilt and Sharples rushed to the assistance of their comrade.

But they were too late.

The entrance was barred against them; and they had the additional mortification of hearing Sheppard's loud laughter at their discomfiture.
"I told you the prison wasn't built that could hold me," cried Jack.
"You're not out yet, you young hound," rejoined Quilt, striving ineffectually to burst open the door.
"But I soon shall be," returned Jack; "take these," he added, flinging the handcuffs against the wooden partition, "and wear 'em yourself." "Halloo, Nab!" vociferated Quilt.