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 begin to streak the east I knew the peasants would soon be astir, and that then we might pick up a trace or two of those we were seeking.

Then Markov made a valuable suggestion.

"Will your honour let me ride on ahead some half mile or so? We are nearing Liublian now, and if I am alone I may get news which would be refused to so large a body of us together. I may see any danger, too, and be able to warn you."

"A prudent thought, Markov," I said, bidding him ride on. "If we see you riding back to us, or if we hear you fire a shot, we shall draw rein and wait till you join us;" and with that he plunged ahead at full speed, and we watched him till he was out of sight over a rise in the road.

I told Zoiloff the arrangement, and we were discussing the situation in jerky whispers while we halted, when one of my men came galloping up in great excitement.

"My lord, we are being pursued. I had to stay behind to get a stone out of my horse's hoof, when I heard the sound of horses galloping some way behind me."

"How far behind?"

"I cannot say—the night is very still. Perhaps half a mile, or maybe a mile."

"Ride on at once and overtake Markov, and warn him to draw into cover. Off with you! We must find out who the horsemen are and their strength," I added to Zoiloff.

"There is a small wood there, which will do for cover, Count," he replied instantly. "Let the men ride there and take our horses, while you and I stay on foot to watch the newcomers."