"I had been confined in that hospital so long that I was still somewhat
weak and I couldn't run fast enough to get away from them. I tried, but
it was no use. Then I took a couple of shots at them, and got two or
three, I think. I'm not sure, though. Anyhow, I saw this barn ahead, and
dashed into it, figuring that I might possibly hold them off.
"When they set fire to the barn, and I realized I couldn't get out, I
gave up. I did shoot one through a crack, but a moment later a shot came
through and caught me in the side. That's the last I remember until I
returned to consciousness and learned that you had saved me."
"Well," said Chester, "you certainly have had an eventful time."
"There is no question about that," Hal agreed. "But how do you feel
now, captain?"
"Tip top. And you?"
"First rate."
The troop continued at a trot, and Hal now believed that they were out of
danger--that there was no likelihood of encountering a force of the
enemy--and turned to his friends, remarking:
"Well, we might as well--Hello!"
He broke off suddenly and checked the pace of his horse.
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