The request was granted, and, accompanied by two men, Frank descended
into the hold.
Down there, amid barrels and casks, they came upon Harris. Frank heard
the irons rattle, and then a gaunt-looking, wild-eyed creature rose up
before them, shown by the yellow light of the lanterns.
Frank Merriwell had steady nerves, but, despite himself, he started.
The appearance of the fellow had changed in a most remarkable manner.
Harris looked as if he was overcome with terror.
"There he is," said one of the men, holding up his lantern so the light
fell more plainly on the wretched prisoner.
"Have you come to take me out of here?" cried Harris, in a tone of voice
that gave Frank a chill. "For God's sake, take me out of this place!
I'll go mad if I stay here much longer! It is full of rats! I could not
sleep last night--I dare not close my eyes for a minute! Please--please
take me out of here!"
Then he saw and recognized Frank.
"You?" he screamed. "Have you come here to gloat over me, Frank
Merriwell?"
"No," said Frank; "I have come to see if I can do anything for you."
"Ha! ha! ha!" laughed Harris, in a manner that made Frank believe
madness could not be far away. "You wouldn't do that! I know why you are
here! You have triumphed over me! You wish to see me in all my misery!
Well, look at me! Here I have been thrown into this hellish hole, amid
rats and vermin, ironed like a nigger! Look till you are satisfied! It
will fill your heart with satisfaction! Mock me! Sneer at me! Deride
me!"
"I have no desire to do anything of the sort," declared Frank.
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