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230 him and who had escaped the second shot came in. He grinned savagely when he saw that Gilbert's eyes were open, and addressed the prisoner in Chinese.

Not understanding a word, Gilbert made no reply, at which the Boxer—for such the fellow was—gave a growl, and kicked the prostrate officer in the side.

"You're a cheerful brute!" gasped Gilbert, as soon as he could get back the wind of which he had been deprived. "I thought some of our soldiers were unnecessarily cruel; but I reckon you fellows deserve all you are getting, and more."

The Boxer did not understand, but he guessed that the young lieutenant was finding fault; and he kicked Gilbert again. Then, with another growl, he took down the lantern and went out, leaving his prisoner in darkness.

If the young lieutenant had felt downhearted before, he was now even more discouraged. He was alone, and it was doubtful if any but his enemies were aware of his situation.

"If the boys knew of this, they would come to the rescue," he reasoned. "But they don't know, and it's likely they won't find out. For once I have put my head into the lion's mouth."