These also approach the cross roads, and then stop.
The first are those of a coal wagon, drawn by four handsome horses; the second, those of a vehicle of the same description, drawn by two fine steeds.
Two men occupy the first wagon; one the next.
As the foremost wagon pauses, Larkins tosses his reins to the silent man in the buggy, and advances, followed by Dwight.
"Not if _you_ are all right," replies a harsh voice, a voice that has a natural snarl in it.
The two men in the wagon spring to the ground, and begin to unharness the foremost horses. The other wagon comes closer.
"You and Briggs are to take in these two teams. Tom is to go on with the Morgans. Dwight is to take us back to Trafton," says the rasping voice.
"By George, Captain, it's _you_ in person."
"Yes, it's me," shortly. "Simpson failed to come, and I wanted to have a few words with you and Larkins. Hark! _What's that?_"
Wheels again; swift rushing, rattling wheels. Six heads are turned toward the north, whence they approach.
Suddenly there is a whistle, short and shrill.
Men are bounding over the low hedge to the left! Men are rising up from the long grass by the roadside!
[Illustration: "Men are bounding over the low hedge to the left! Men are rising up from the long grass by the roadside!"--417.]
Oaths, ejaculations, cracking of pistols, plunging of horses--
"The first man who attempts to run will be shot down!"
I hear these words, as I drive the Brookhouse roadster, foaming and panting, into the midst of the melee.
In spite of the warning one man has made a dart for liberty, has turned and rushed directly upon my horse.
In spite of the darkness his sharp eyes recognize the animal. What could his son's horse bring save a warning or a rescue?
He regains his balance, which, owing to his sudden contact with the horse, he had nearly lost, and springs toward me as my feet touch the earth.
Before he can realize the truth my hands are upon him. Before he can recover from his momentary consternation other hands seize him from behind.
The captain of the horse-thieves, the head and front and brains of the band, is bound and helpless!
It is soon over; the horse-thieves fight well; strive hard to evade capture; but the attack is so sudden, so unexpected, and they are unprepared, although each man, as a matter of course, is heavily armed.