vessel, the rebels will be more than half inclined to believe that we
have gone off too, and, consequently, will not take the pains to hunt us
which they would do if they _knew_ we were still on shore. But let
us be moving; we've no time to waste."

Frank started toward the house, carefully picking his way over the wet,
slippery ground, now and then pausing to listen, and to reconnoiter as
well as the darkness would permit, and finally stopped scarcely a
stone's throw from the building. Not a guerrilla had they seen. Not
dreaming that the "yankee gun-boatmen" would have the audacity to attack
them when they knew the rebels were so far superior in numbers, the
latter had neglected to post sentries, and Frank was satisfied that
their approach had not been discovered.

"Now, Archie," said he, as they drew up behind a tree for concealment,
"you stay here, and I'll see if I can set fire to that house."

"There are people in it," said his cousin; "I just saw a man pass by
that window where the light is."

"Then they must look out for themselves," answered Frank. "That's what
we have to do when they shoot into our cabin. Now, you stay here, and if
you hear any shooting, run for the boat."

"What will _you_ do?" asked Archie.

"Oh, I'll take care of myself. Good-bye."

As Frank spoke he moved silently toward the house, and was soon out of
sight.