s to fetch armor, or arms, left there--were also hurrying
to take their places in the ranks. Therefore, no special attention
was paid to John until he was within a few yards of the opening.

Then a centurion at the end of the line said sternly:

"You will be punished, tomorrow, for not being in your place. What
is your name?" for, as John was between him and the sheet of flame
rising from the camp, the Roman was unable to see his face.

Instead of halting, as he expected, John sprang past him and,
throwing down his helmet and buckler, dashed through the space
between the companies.

"Seize him! Cut him down!" the centurion shouted; but John was
already descending the slope.

As he ran, he swung the loosely buckled breastplate round on to his
back; and it was well he did so for, a moment later, a Roman
javelin rang against it, the force of the blow almost throwing him
on his face. But, in a moment, he continued his course. He was in
total darkness now and, though the javelins were flying around him,
they were thrown at random. But the descent had now become so steep
he was obliged to pause in his course, and to make his way
cautiously.

He undid the buckle, and left the breastplate behind him; threw
down the sword; and climbed down until he stood by the side of the
river. He could hear shouts above him, and knew that the Romans
were searching the hillside, hoping that he had been killed or
wounded by their darts. But he had no fear of pursuit. He swam the
river--for he had struck upon a deep spot--and then, at full speed,
ran along on the bank--knowing that some of the Roman cavalry were
encamped upon the plain, and would soon be on the spot.

However, all was quiet, and he met no one until he arrived opposite
the place where it had been arranged that the party should meet.
Then he waded across.

"Is that you, John?" a voice exclaimed.

"It is I, Jonas. Thank God, you have got back safely! How many are
with you?"

There was a loud cry of satisfaction and, as he made his way up the
bank, a number of his followers crowded round him; all in the
highest state of delight at his return. Jonas threw his arms round
his neck, crying with joy.

"I thought you must have fallen, John. I have been here ten
minutes. Most of the others were here before me. Only three have
arrived since and, for the last five minutes, none have come."

"I fear no more will come," John said. "The Romans have cut off all
retreat.

"How