at I will not stand by and see my dear old master's son
butchered, for it's nothing else. A boy like him, brave as he is, ought
not to be sent, even if it is for his country's sake, when there are
plenty of stout, strong men who could do the work as well or better,
because they are hard and tough."

"Be silent, Serge," cried Marcus, passionately. "Don't punish him,
captain; he means well, but he is half mad to speak to you like that."

"You need not appeal, my boy," said the captain, smiling. "I should
punish no man for being brave and true to those he has served."

"But I tell you, captain," raged out Serge, "that it would be like
murder to send the boy like that."

"Silence, old madman," cried the captain. "Why, I should be as mad as
you even to think of doing such a thing. Listen, boy; be ready, and
when the rest of the chariots are moved off towards the upper part of
the track along with the rest of the force, you will keep back amongst
the rocks. I shall lead the men myself and make a feigned attack as if
I were going to retreat back by the way we came; and in the excitement
and confusion, when the enemy yonder have drawn off to go to their
companions' assistance and take me in the rear, you will watch your
chance and escape."

"Yes, I see," cried Marcus, excitedly; and the captain went on:

"The chances are that if you are noticed no one will try to stop you.
It will be thought that you are deserting and seeking your safety in
flight."

"Yes, yes," cried Marcus; "and now I shall be sure to succeed."

"Yes, captain, that's better," growled Serge, in his deepest tones. "I
like that."

"Then take good heed to his safety, man," cried the captain, warmly,
"and die for him if there is need, for I would rather lose a hundred men
such as you than one like him."

"But--but--" stammered Serge, "you don't mean--"

"I don't mean!" cried the captain. "Why, the boy is right: you are an
old madman to think that I would send that brave boy alone when he has
such a faithful old follower as you at his side. No, no; go with him,
and bring him back safely to me, along with the help I ask, or never see
my face again."

Before he had finished, rough old Serge, with the big tears standing in
his eyes, was down upon one knee catching at the leader's hand and
carrying it to his lips.

"There, there, there," cried the captain, "time is precious. No more of
this. Boy, you have the safety of this force in your hand