Page:Under MacArthur in Luzon.djvu/223

Rh near a spring and went into temporary camp for the night.

"They are tying their prisoners to the trees," announced Si.

"Then they mean to stay awhile—probably over night," returned Walter. "I wonder if we could crawl in under cover of darkness and cut some of them loose?"

"I'm for tryin' it with you," was the quick reply. "Perhaps we can steal some of the guns, too."

Impatiently the two young sailors waited until the darkness was well advanced. The Filipinos had lighted a camp-fire and were around this, eating, drinking, and smoking. Only a small portion of the food was given to the prisoners, who were insulted and kicked whenever an opportunity offered.

At last the camp grew quiet, as one after another of the Filipinos fell asleep. Some of the prisoners were also slumbering, having slipped down in the bonds which held them.

"Now is our chance," whispered Si. "Are you ready, Walter?"

"I am ready, but I wish I had a knife. I can't do much with my fingers, in this darkness."