dark shadow leaning grimly on a rifle.

CHAPTER XIII.

THE FLIGHT THROUGH THE TOWN.

It was a critical situation for the three fugitives, crouching behind
the heavy prison door. That grim sentry over yonder by the gate must be
noiselessly and effectually overpowered, and that at once. Any moment
guards might come from the palace, and then--oh, it was horrible! The
public square, the executioner's gleaming knife, the roar of the
populace!

Guy's brain whirled at this appalling panorama, and he clutched the door
for support.

"Can't we rush on him?" asked Melton.

Canaris laughed grimly.

"Before we could take three steps from the door," he said, "the fellow
would see us and alarm the palace. If I go alone the chances are that
before you can reach me he would succeed in making an outcry. Our only
hope lies in getting away from the town before our escape is
discovered."

"But what are you going to do, Canaris?" asked Guy excitedly. "We are
losing precious time."

"Keep cool," replied the Greek. "I will fix him in five minutes. Stay
where you are and don't make a sound. When I wave my hand, then come."

He removed his burnous and stuffed it under his tunic. Then he calmly
opened the door and walked straight across the court toward the guard,
who looked up carelessly at his approach. With their eyes glued against
the cracks of the door Guy and Melton waited in terrible suspense.

A short conversation ensued. Canaris turned and pointed toward the
prison. The guard replied with many gestures, and finally in his
eagerness placed his rifle against the wall. What followed was so swift
and dexterous that it seemed like a dream.

The Greek's right hand shot out from his bosom clasping some glittering
object. It struck the astonished guard on the forehead with a sharp
click that echoed across the courtyard, and without a sound he dropped
on his knees and then rolled over on the stone pavement.

Canaris waved his hand, and then the two captives dashed breathlessly
across the courtyard.

"Is he dead?" asked Guy in a horrified whisper.

"Only stunned," replied Canaris. "I struck him with the butt of my
revolver. Quick now; bind and gag him while I find the key and open the
gate."

Guy hastily fastened the fellow's feet and arms and stuffed a roll of
linen in his mouth.

Melton stood looking on. His wound was beginning to give him some pain
again.

With