With the coming of darkness a man entered bearing a tray with bread and
water. The others awakened now and all did full justice to the frugal
meal. Their hands were untied while they ate, but the meal over, they
were bound again.

Then all waited for what seemed hours, though in reality it could not
have been more than three. Then Hal addressed Nikol.

"Still think you can break your bonds?"

"I can," replied Nikol quietly.

"And you, Ivan?"

"Yes, although it won't make much difference. Nikol could release the
rest of us."

"I thought the second tying-up might have made it impossible," said Hal.

"I'm ready any time you give the word," said Nikol.

"Then do it now," said Hal.

The others gazed curiously as Nikol made his little form still smaller.
He drew in his chest as much as possible and then expanded suddenly, at
the same time thrusting out with his strong arms. There was a report as
of a revolver being discharged, though much fainter, and Nikol was free.

"Ha!" said Ivan. "He did it. Now watch me."