another, constantly endeavouring to hide from the
Americans. Now in some town, now in the wilderness, and again venturing
as near as possible to the boundaries of Manila." And he could scarcely
help admiring their courage, or recklessness, rather, in camping so
near the head of the American government, where they might expect to be
caught in a trap at any moment. But Archie realised, too, that such an
army can get away in a very short time, and he began to have serious
doubts as to whether the Americans would ever be able to capture
Aguinaldo and his men. For knowing the islands perfectly, and being able
to get from one point to another in the easiest and quickest way, the
rebels have a great deal in their favour.

Selecting some canned beef and some native bread and cheese, Archie
managed to make a very good meal for himself, though he ate hurriedly
for fear some of the rebels might return. As soon as he had finished he
returned to his position on the roof, for there he knew that he would be
safe in case the building was entered by the townspeople. From his high
perch he looked down into the streets, and was surprised to find them as
quiet and as much deserted as they had been the night before. The
news of the coming of the Americans had been effective in quieting the
enthusiasm of the morning, and all the townsfolk had again entered their
homes and put the shutters up before their windows. One would have taken
the place for a deserted village, judging from appearances. But Archie
knew that within the shuttered windows and barred doors there were
hundreds of people waiting anxiously for the arrival of the American
troops, and making ready to come out, when required to do so, and again
declare their allegiance to the stars and stripes. The cowardly wretches
were diplomatic enough to be always on the side of the victorious.
When the rebels occupied the town they were loyal to them, and when the
Americans came, as they often did, they came out into the square and
cheered loudly for Uncle Sam. But of course the Americans knew very well
that their sympathies were with the rebels, and the rebels knew it, too,
or they would never have dared to venture so near Manila.

About five in the afternoon, there was a sound of many men marching
along the road, and in a little while Archie was able to see the
Americans coming down the street. It was a sight to cheer his heart
after all his experiences of the last day and night. The colu