o will help all
hands who work here. Let us through peaceably, an' we'll allers be your
friends, but if we're obliged to fight for it there'll be nothin' left
of you."

"We'll take our chances rather than have such as you call us friends;
but it strikes me that a fight, with all the weapons on our side, is too
big a contract for you to tackle."

"Put out your lamps, boys, an' we'll show these fools what can be done."

In an instant the tunnel was plunged in profound darkness, and the
lights worn by the boys served to reveal their whereabouts clearly.

Both realized how great would be the disadvantages under such
circumstances, and in the least possible time the tiny flames were
extinguished.

Even while this was being done the rioters attempted to effect an
entrance; but, without exposing himself to a blow, Sam discharged his
weapon, paying little regard to accuracy of aim.

The noise of the report echoed and reechoed through the passages, and
the chamber was filled with smoke, during which time Fred fancied he saw
a form leaning half through the aperture, and he also fired.

"That makes two cartridges, an' now we've only got ten left," Sam said
in a half whisper. "At this rate we can't keep the battle goin' a great
while, an' when the thing is ended we shall have to take whatever they
choose to give."

"Donovan may send some one before the ammunition is exhausted."

"He won't think of such a thing for a good many hours yet. Could you
find your way back to where the men are at work on the pumps?"

"And leave you alone?"

"One of us must go, or else these fellows will soon be where a great
amount of mischief can be done."

"I am willing to do whatever you think best."

"Then go, and tell whoever you meet, of the pickle I am in. I'll stay
because I'll most likely make a better fist at fighting than you."

"Do you want the cartridges?"

"Yes, and the gun."

Fred placed the weapon against the wall near his companion, and turned
to go.

"Don't light your lamp until you are so far away that the flame can't be
seen, for it won't do to let them know we have divided forces."

A silent handshake and Sam was alone.

"It's goin' to be a tough job, an' most likely I'll get the worst of
it," he said to himself, as he leaned toward the aperture in a listening
attitude.

Five minutes passed, and then came a shower of missiles, causing a
choking dust to arise; but doing no further injury. Immediately
afterward