"what's the matter with taking them in the rear? They haven't
spotted us yet."

"I was thinking of that," said Colonel Anderson. "Guess it can be done
all right. Will your horse carry double that far, Hal?"

"He'll have to," replied the lad grimly.

"Good. Are you ready?"

"When you give the word."

"Then charge!"

Down the road at a rapid gallop went the three horses, carrying the
four friends.

Hal, Colonel Anderson and Nikol each guided their mounts with their left
hands, flourishing their revolvers in the right. Chester held fast to Hal
with his left and also flourished a revolver with his free hand.

Nearer and nearer they came upon their unsuspecting enemies, who still
stood where they had been when first discovered. Occasionally one fired
his revolver at the spot from which shots came at frequent intervals now.

"Wonder why those fellows beyond don't charge, now that they must see us
coming," muttered Hal to himself.

He watched the puffs of smoke as they came at intervals, and he was
suddenly struck by an idea.