electricity. Of late there had
occurred some serious trouble with the insulation, and the main part of
the structure had to go back to ancient lamp illumination, when any
occasion arose. As this was Summer, the night services had been
discontinued until repairs could be made.

Paul, however, chanced to know that the little circuit in this rear
basement had escaped the general slaughter. He had even tried turning on
the light at one time when poking about curiously.

And when he had taken up his location just now, it was close to the
button which governed the two electric lights in the furnace room.

Paul thought that the time was about ripe to give these intruders the
surprise of their lives. Up to this moment they had been having things
their own way; but why should he wait until some one managed to draw a
match out of his pocket, and faintly illuminate the apartment?

While the followers of Ted were groping about among the scattered cans,
and Bud was sneezing violently as he tried to gain his feet there was
suddenly a flash of dazzling light that almost blinded every one.

At exactly the same instant there sounded the eager barking of what, to
the alarmed intruders, seemed to be a small dog. But it was the signal
of the Fox Patrol, and possessed a positive significance for every
member of Stanhope Troop.

"Oh! look!" almost shrieked Bud, as, having managed to recover his
balance, he saw the figures of four active boys shoot up into view from
behind as many tall ash receivers.

The Boy Scouts never halted to count their foes. It was an occasion
calling for speedy action. Indeed, if they wished to take full advantage
of the surprise, and complete the demoralization of the intruders, they
must follow up their appearance on the scene with prompt measures.

"At 'em, fellows!" cried Paul, suiting the action to the word by smiting
the nearest of the Slavin crowd with the padded club he wielded.

Scissors Dempsey promptly bowled over among the ashes, surprised, if not
seriously hurt.

"Sweep 'em out!" exclaimed Jack, whirling his instrument of torture
around his head, and sending at least two of the intruders reeling.

Immediately a regular pandemonium ensued. Ted saw that he had run into a
hornet's nest, and like the wise general that he was, concluded that it
was no place for a fellow who had any self respect. Their little game
was spoiled, that seemed evident, and it would be the height of folly to
think of con