Gordon throws the bricks back into place, and
then draws mattress over them. He snatches up blanket,
drawing it partially over him, strikes out candle with
his hand, pillows his head on his arm and pretends to be
asleep. Enter Bill from the hall. He is very cross at
having been disturbed.

Bill. Nice time o' night to be coming asking for prisoners. Fool!
Why couldn't he wait till mornin (holds up lantern). Humph! Must all be
sleepin in the parlor. Well, I'll get um out of thar (he catches sight
of Gordon). Well, friendly fellow--this; wants room to himself. You,
there; get up! (Gordon moves and half turns, but does not open eyes)
Thunder! Are you dead? Get up!

[Shakes him roughly by the arm.

Gordon (half rising, as though very sleepy). What's the matter?

Bill. Matter? Get up from thar and you'll see.

Gordon. Well, I'm awake. What do you want?

Bill. Two fellers from the army ter see yer. Hump! That makes you
look up, don't it? I guess they've got important business with you, you
damned spy!

Gordon (rises quickly, confronting him). Be careful!

Bill (astonished, but drawing back). Careful, eh? We'll be
careful enough of you. I don't guess your stay will be much longer here.
That is the way we has with spies--damn you! (he opens the door). In
here, sir.

[Enter Winthrop and Hopkins. They wear their hats and long
riding capes and have evidently come a long way.

Hopkins. That's all, thank you. Wait outside and leave the lantern.

[Exit Bill.

Winthrop. In here?

Hop. Yes. This is the room.

[They come forward.

Gordon (rises to his feet). Good evening!

Winth. Cabell!

Hop. Good evening!

[Winthrop offers hand. Gordon looks at him for a second,
then gives hand.

Winth. Our business is of the uttermost importance, sir. You must
excuse the hour.

Gordon. That does not matter.

Hop. Hillary is in here with you, I understand. We have come to
see you both.

Gordon. There are only a few of us in this part of the prison. We
share the two rooms.

Winth. Our time is limited sir, we must see Mr. Hillary also.

Gordon. I'll find him, sir. (He goes to the door then turns)
Could you not tell me, without him. He's been quite ill.