Before going to bed that night Torrence told me that he should probably
be absent a couple of days attending to the final equipment of the
machine; and when I bid him good-night it was with the understanding
that we should not meet for a day or two. He would certainly return
before the end of the week; and I was to have everything ready for
leaving at a moment's notice, as he was anxious there should be no
delay. That was on Tuesday. Imagine, therefore, my surprise upon
seeing him enter my bedroom at a late hour Wednesday night. I had been
in bed long enough to fall asleep, and was aroused by a light shining in
my eyes. There was a strange look in Torry's face, and I started up
alarmed.
"Hello!" I cried, jumping up. "What's the matter? Has any thing
happened?"
Torrence put his finger to his lips and said:
"Hush! Be quiet! Don't be scared, but get up at once and do as I tell
you without losing a moment's time!"
I did as I was bid; and dressed as hurriedly as possible, not doubting
but the climax I had so long dreaded had come at last.
"We must be off immediately," said he, as I was putting the finishing
touches to my toilet. There was something too dead earnest in his look
and manner to permit of a single question.
"The trunks are quite ready," I observed; my teeth chattering with
excitement.
"Damn the trunks! We must leave them behind. Have you the package?"