though, for they are likely to turn almost any time."

An hour later, rounding a turn in the road, Colonel Anderson, who was in
advance, checked his horse suddenly. The others also drew up sharply.

"What's the matter?" asked Hal.

For answer Colonel Anderson pointed down the road.

There, probably half a mile away, were their pursuers, stationary.

"What do you suppose they are waiting for?" demanded Chester.

The answer came from an unexpected source.

From beyond the pursuers arose a puff of smoke, followed by a faint
report. It was the sound of a revolver.

"They've bumped into another enemy of some kind," said Chester. "Wonder
how strong this new force is?"

"Can't be very strong or those fellows would be heading this way,"
declared Hal. "Maybe they think it's us."

"That's about the size of it," declared Colonel Anderson.

There was another puff of smoke at this moment, and one of the
enemy fell.

"Bully for you, whoever you are," shouted Chester. "Say!" he added,