Fine when they're on top, but as soon as
anyone gets under their guard, they welch. That's the reason I think
we can make it. But listen--" and the agent's voice dropped. "This is
a mighty risky business. I don't want anyone to get in this against
his will. No telling what may happen. Are you boys willing to take a
chance?"

Bud was the first to speak.

"Mr. Hawkins," he said, "I think I know the others well enough to speak
for them. When we started this thing, we did so because it was our
duty, and, I might as well admit it, because of the excitement. Since
then something has happened. Billee Dobb was shot. Are you answered?"

"I am," said the agent, with an understanding look. "All set then,
boys. Around that way, Bud. Wait for three shots, then close
in--fast. Let's go!"

Bud and Yellin' Kid started for the right of the house. The moment had
come. Before many more minutes passed, the plan would have either
succeeded, or there would be fewer men able to walk around the ranch
house. Hawkins and Nort drew their guns, and headed their ponies to
the left, throwing them into a gallop. They crouched low in the
saddles. What was in their minds as they made ready for that desperate
charge? Fear? Hardly that. A turmoil of excitement, probably.

As they dashed out into the open Nort gave a quick glance toward the
window. He could see nothing save darkness within. It took but a few
seconds for them to reach the side of the house. Hawkins looked over
at Nort. The boy nodded. Now!

They raced madly toward the house. Bang! A shot rang out, and a puff
of smoke came from one of the windows. Nort's hat went sailing away as
though it were on a string. Bang! Nort saw the agent's pony falter,
then recover and go dashing on. Now they were almost to the house. It
had seemed as though one of them surely would be hit, for they were
speeding across perfectly open territory and the occupants of the house
were firing rapidly.

But, somehow, luck was with them. They reached the porch safely. And
just as Hawkins was about to give the signal for Bud and the Kid to
attack, he saw something that stayed his hand.

From the rear of the house a volume of black smoke was pouring.

CHAPTER XXIII

A RING OF FIRE

"Wait, Nort!" Hawkins yelled. "Stick close to the house! Get in
close! Not the front--this way! This way!"

He pulled his horse over to one side and held him as near the side wall
of