Page:Tomlinson--The rider of the black horse.djvu/275

Rh word of this! Don't you lisp a word about what has happened here or it 'll be the worse for you!"

There was no opportunity for Robert to reply, for he swiftly darted from the barn, his eyes smarting from the effect of the smoke and his eagerness to escape overpowering every other consideration. In the yard before the barn, however, he quickly stopped, for he instantly perceived that the new-comers were a band of redcoats, and there was a young lieutenant in command.

Evidently the officer was known to Claudius Brown, for he said sharply, "What's this, Brown?"

Before the leader responded, Robert glanced all about him eager to find some opening by which he might escape, but such an attempt would be hopeless, for the men were armed and he would be quickly overtaken. Instantly he darted into the barn again, and seizing the hat which had been lying neglected on the floor he dashed out once more, and stood quietly in the presence of the men, who had scarcely noticed his actions in the intense excitement that prevailed. As he once more appeared Claudius Brown seized him by the shoulder, and he was com-