“When I got to the spot, two soldiers were then on the ground weltering in their blood.

“They had been killed by Jack and Bates.

“‘Help! help!’ cried Blood’s men; ‘up the street! after them! they have escaped! help! help!’

A STARTLING INCIDENT.—See Number 21.


CHAPTER LI.

THE SKELETON CREW HOLD A MERRY MEETING—ADVENTURES OF THE GANG—DEATH-WING NARRATES HIS EXPERIENCE IN FRANCE, AND OF HIS ESCAPE FROM GAOL WHEN UNDER SENTENCE OF DEATH.

When the spies of the Skeleton Crew had told their tales, Death-wing much commended them for the prudence and caution with which they had proceeded in all they had done.

“We will not stir out to-night,” said Death-wing, “there are too many on foot for us to do any business comfortably and quietly; besides, you know, comrades, Col. Blood will never be able to discover the hiding-place of the Dozen. When, therefore, this little affair has blown over and got cold by to-morrow night, we will give Captain Jack and his friends a call at their snug hiding-place, and secure everything.”