sought, Michel, was in the patch of[31] garden and greeted me with a smile. I came to the point at once. [31] “Michel, you have often asked for a chance of repaying that little debt. You can do it now. I want you and your sister, Testa, to help me. You are to ride my horse and your sister yours, and start at once. Ride down the Devil’s Staircase, strike out any way you like at the bottom; ride for four or five hours; you in the name of Ivan Grubel, your sister as Mary Smith, an English girl. At the end of the ride, which must be as near a railway station as you can manage, turn my horse adrift to go where he will; and then make your way home secretly. And no one must know of your absence. You’ll do this?” “Why yes, Excellency. Testa, Testa;” and he ran in calling his sister. “Now for the coat? It will be the best possible thing to create the false trail with.” “The papers are here in the lining.” “Get them out then at once, please. We have no minutes to lose.” I handed her a knife and she found them. Michel came round the cottage a minute later leading the horse for his sister just as Testa herself appeared ready to start. “Good-evening, Excellency,” she said, her brown eyes dancing at the thought of an adventure. “You grow stronger every day, Testa, and prettier,” I said. “Now, Michel, wear this coat,[32] take care that every one has a full view of it; and when you get rid of the horse, strap it on his back. Mind, you two, my liberty may depend upon you. God-speed.” [32] “Trust me,” replied Michel as he mounted. I helped Testa to the saddle. “Don’t look scared, child,” I said; for her face had clouded at my words. “I shall be in no danger if you do this thing well. Off with you.” “By the help of the Virgin,” returned Testa; and away they went helter-skelter towards the Devil’s Staircase. As soon as they were out of sight we set off for Bratinsk, across the fields; and I explained the next part of my plan. This was to use the two passports of Bob Garrett and his sister. “I have not told you my real
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