glow of excitement in his ordinarily pallid face
that told of the agitation of his mind.

He jumped from the bed, and facing his companion, said:

"I will get out of this if it is in the power of human effort to
accomplish it. I will write to my friend at once, and no time shall
be lost in the attempt."

This change in his manner soon communicated itself to Bucholz, and in
a short time, under the influence of this new-born hope, their
conversation assumed a more cheerful strain, and bright pictures of
the future were indulged in.

Active measures were at once begun, the friends of Sommers were
written to; another interview was had with the State's attorney, and
sufficient reasons were offered for a reduction in the amount of the
bail under which he was held.

Mr. Olmstead, after listening to the statements made to him, agreed
to the reduction asked for, and in a few days the necessary forms
were gone through with. The requisite amount of money was deposited
with the Court, and everything was in readiness for the release of
Edward Sommers from his place of confinement.

The information was conveyed to Bucholz and Sommers, while they were
walking up and down the corridor during the hours in which they were
released from their cells, and the effect was observable upon the
faces of both. Bucholz, while rejoicing in the accomplishment of a
result that would prove of incalculable benefit to himself, was none
the less reluctant as the time approached, to part with the friend
who had brightened many gloomy hours, and whose intercourse had
produced such a beneficial change upon his spirits and disposition.

He seemed loth, now that they were about to be separated, to utter
the parting word, but as he thought of the advantage which this
release would be to him, he assumed a cheerful demeanor, and appeared
rejoiced at his speedy deliverance.

Their leave-taking was of the most friendly character, and after
bestowing upon Bucholz the various articles which his cell contained,
and many delicacies which had been received during his imprisonment,
Sommers prepared to leave the prison.

Clasping the hand of Bucholz, he whispered:

"Courage, William. I will see you often, and between us we will
succeed in our undertaking yet."

Saying which, and after a cordial parting salutation from the genial
and pleasant jailer, Mr. Wells, the doors of the prison were
unlocked, and Edward Sommers walked out into the bright sunshine and