CHAPTER IX

CANTOR FINDS HIS CHANCE


Prompt action alone could save the women and children who lay
cowering in the launch.

"Corporal, kneel with your men, and let them have it as fast as
you can!" ordered Dave. "Riley, get your men into the boat, and
take the Colt with you. Post it as fast as you can on the starboard
quarter!"

Dave himself stood behind the kneeling marines, a fair target for
every hostile bullet.

John Carmody, too, felt in honor bound to risk himself beside
the young Navy ensign.

"All sea-going, sir!" called Coxswain Riley. "Schmidt, make ready
to cast off," sang back Darrin.

Now the different groups of Mexicans, who had been halted for a
minute under the brisk fire, saw their prey slipping away from them.

With yells of fury, Cosetta's men rose and attempted the final
charge.

"Marines aboard!" yelled Darrin.