country, and missing the perils of passing Ticonderoga.

"We will take that in returning," said Rogers; "but we will not
risk being seen on our way down, else they might be upon the alert
for our return. We will arrange a pleasant surprise for them."

The way was laborious now, for they had to climb hills which gave
them a good view over the fortifications of Crown Point; but this
elevation once safely attained, without any further molestation
from Indians, they were able to make a complete survey of the
fortifications; and Stark made some excellent plans and drawings,
which gave a fine idea of the place.

So far all had been peaceful; but the Rangers were not wont to come
and go and leave no trace. There were outlying farms around the
fortifications, and comings and goings between the French soldiers
and peasants.

"We will stop these supplies," said Rogers, with a sardonic smile;
"the French shall learn to be as careful of their flour as we have
to be!"

And carefully laying an ambush in the early grey of a winter's
morning, he sprang suddenly out upon a train of wagons wending
their way to the fortifications.

The drivers, scared and terrified, jumped from their places, and
ran screaming into the defences, whence soldiers came rushing out,
sword in hand, but only to find the wagons in flames, the horses
driven off to the forest, and the barns and farmsteads behind