"You don't go, sir," Payson insisted. "It's a criminal waste of life."

"Man, unhand me. Let me go, I tell you."

"I won't, sir. I've Mr. Reade's orders."

"He's helpless and no longer in command," Harry retorted.

"He's in command enough for me, sir."

"Payson!" Harry Hazelton's fierce gaze burned into the eyes of the
foreman. "If Tom Reade dies out yonder, and you've hindered me from
saving him--I'll have your life for forfeit!"

Before that burning look even Payson shrank back. Harry Hazelton,
ordinarily the best natured of boys, was now in terrible earnest.

"That's right," muttered Hazelton. "Men, I take command here. You
needn't heed any words from Reade. Now, you men on the lines watch
close and listen keenly for my orders."

With that Hazelton darted out on the deadly, treacherous sands!





CHAPTER XI