ep on with you, or write ourselves down as
cowards; but at the same time we have the right to think it a foolish
venture."

The words had no sooner escaped my lips than I regretted having spoken,
and without delay I hastened to make amends by explaining that I was in
truth frightened at the idea of venturing into that nest of snakes from
which we had once barely gotten away with our lives.

The old man must have understood that I spoke rather from nervousness than
because I was really in anger, and immediately he acted as if nothing
unpleasant had been said, but began to discuss the question of whether it
would be wise to burden ourselves with weapons when, if brought to bay, we
could not hope to fight our way through.

Before we had more than gained the barracks half the men in the
fortification had some knowledge of our intentions, and we were
overwhelmed alike with questions and suggestions.

But very few minutes were needed in which to make ready for the venture,
and when we came out of the barracks all three of us had rifles strapped
upon our backs in such a manner that they would not interfere with our
movements in case it became necessary to trust to the fleetness of our
feet. Three rounds of ammunition for each one, sufficient corn bread to
make a single meal, and hunting-knives, completed the outfit.

It would have pleased us better had we been allowed to depart unaided; but
a full half of the garrison appeared to think it absolutely necessary to
go with us to the very limits of the fort, and if good wishes are of any
avail at such a time, then were we certain of returning in good condition.

Once on the plain outside the stockaded portion of the works, Sergeant
Corney led the way by going in a southerly direction for a distance of an
hundred yards or more, and then striking sharply off toward the west,
where was to be found the nearest cover.

Having gained the line of foliage which fringed the high tract of land, it
was possible to march off at a smart pace without need of taking
particular heed to our steps, and we travelled rapidly until having
arrived at a point midway between our starting-place and the ruins of Fort
Newport.

"Here's where I allow we'll be wise to change the commandant's plan a
bit," the old man said, coming to a halt for the first time since we set
out. "We can't gain very much in lengthenin' the journey by three or four
miles, an' I'm in favor of strikin' across to the hill from