"Now, if you will be patient for a little while, I will explain the nature of the special service." "I shall be very glad to understand the subject, and I am confident my patience will hold out to any extent you may require." The conversation so far had taken place in the library.

The owner of Bonnydale rose from his arm-chair, opened the door into the hall, and looked about him very cautiously.

Then he closed a window which the unusual warmth of an April day had rendered it necessary to open.

He conducted his companions to the part of the room farthest from the door, and seated them on a sofa, while he placed his arm-chair in front of them.

Even Christy thought his father was taking extraordinary precautions, and the visitor could make nothing of it.
"As I have had occasion to remark before to-day, there are traitors in and about New York," the captain began.
"If you have any private business with Captain Chantor, father, I am perfectly willing to retire," suggested Christy.
"No; I wish you to understand this special service, for you may be called upon to take a hand in it," replied Captain Passford; and the son seated himself again.