es: they
were almost always successful.

'Can any one suggest anything better?' he asked, but the challenge was
unanswered.

'Then we will try your dodge, Britt,' said Crowther, decisively, and
before parting, the boys laid all their plans accordingly.

The following day was fixed for the run, and promptly at two o'clock the
hare and hounds assembled. A good deal of chaff was directed by those
who had come to see the start at the bulky lump of chalk that formed
part of the scent, but Britt's good-humour was endless. His confidence
in the use of the chalk was fully justified, for the chase proved one of
the season's most exciting outings, having a spice of originality in
addition to its pleasure, and Britt's ingenuity was rewarded by a good
hearty cheer from the hounds who had followed him so closely.

(_Concluded on page 151._)

THE GIANT OF THE TREASURE CAVES.

(_Continued from page 135._)

Without allowing himself to hesitate a second, Alan sprang, as he hoped,
noiselessly forward, seized the box, which was far lighter than he had
imagined it would be, and ran towards the steps to the Smuggler's Hole.
Unfortunately for him, the loose stones rattled and scattered under his
flying feet, and the men were after him. For a time he managed to keep
well ahead, though he could feel he was not increasing the distance
between himself and his pursuers. He had excellent training, a natural
fleetness of foot, and a light wiry build in his favour; but the enemy
had longer legs, and a perfect acquaintance with the cave and steps. It
was too dark for recognition, and neither of the men was likely to be
very scrupulous should they succeed in catching him.

Up the steps dashed Alan, his breath coming in gasps, and the real
difficulties of his enterprise dawning on him for the first time. It had
been begun in a spirit of amusement, but it bid fair to end in
something very different. But Alan would not drop the precious box. It
was a matter of honour now to save it at all costs. What it contained he
could not imagine, and he had no time for thinking. He could already
hear the panting of the man who had followed closest on his tracks; he
was even struck by one of the flying pebbles sent whirling away by his
heavy feet. He himself was getting spent. The steps were surely steeper
than they had ever been before. He had thought nothing of them the other
day, when he and Marjorie were here exploring! Could it have been only
t