g backward, the master, being the bulkier
and more uncertain, barring Andy's smaller body.

"For our lives!" almost sobbed the boy.

The oncoming foe once or twice struck a light, but the curving of the
passage hid the prey. However, the sound ahead was enough to guide the
Britishers. Then suddenly the master became wedged, and the leader of
the pursuers came so near that Andy fancied he felt his breath.

"I don't hear the little scamp!" muttered Norton; "perhaps the passage
divides. Wait until I strike a light." In that instant the master
extricated himself, and with desperate haste the two backed along, while
the light flickered, and then went out, much to the dismay of the foe.

"Hurry!" commanded Norton; "I hear him again; don't fool with the
light!" The head man and Andy were not a yard apart now, and the
narrowest of the passage was yet to come!

The master realized this, too. He knew if he were to get wedged again
all would be over, and Andy was the one nearest the enemy! He paused and
Andy came in violent contact with him. The leading Britisher was upon
them! The form behind Andy darted forth an arm of steely muscle, and a
terrific blow fell sure and sudden on the face of the British sentinel!

"My God!" screamed the fellow, and "The devil!" echoed from his
companion.

"Now!" whispered the master, "this is our last fling!"

It was over at last. The entrance was gained. Taking no time to consider
how spent Andy was, the master began to pile rocks at the opening. It
took not overlong, for the mouth of the cave was small.

"So!" almost laughed the master in his relief, "before my British friend
gets his senses back, the way is barred. Good! Here, Andy, lad, give me
your hand. To the house, and to bed. Ere daybreak I must be well away
from here. They are planning an attack at once, and I know where I can
get the plans, methinks. That fellow saw you, and there is no further
chance for me here."

"You--you are going?" Andy, leaning on the master and his crutch, was
making good headway. "The man saw only me; surely you can stay in
safety."

"Andy, do you think the fellow thought you dealt that blow?" The clear
laugh was stifled. "No; we are marked men. But I am on the right course
now. Washington shall soon have the papers he needs."

"Where do you go?" whispered Andy; "can I not be of use?"

"Not now, my friend, and if we never meet again, Andy McNeal, remember
whom we have both served well, and that yo