“They won’t get the safe, that is sure,” said the young railroader in tones of great satisfaction, as he hurried along in the pelting storm. “They will scarcely pursue me. It is pretty certain, however, that they will be pursued, and I may meet an engine before I reach Dover.”
Just as he neared the end of the trestle Ralph saw at some distance the glint of a headlight. It was unsteady, indicating the uncertain character of the roadbed. 143
“About two miles away,” decided the young fireman. “I must manage to stop them.”
With considerable difficulty, Ralph secured sufficient dry wood and leaves in among some bushes to start a fire between the rails and soon had a brisk blaze going. The headlight came nearer and nearer. A locomotive halted. Ralph ran up to the cab.
It contained Griscom, the city fireman and two men armed with rifles. The old engineer peered keenly at the figure, quickly springing to the step of the engine.
“You, lad?” he cried heartily. “I’m glad of that. Where is the train?”
“About two miles further on beyond the trestle.”
“And the pay car?”
“The robbers were in possession when I left them.”
“Then they will get away with the safe!” cried the engineer excitedly.