“First-rate.”
“Then, if you slowed down now, you could stop the train in a third of her length, couldn't you?”
“Easy, if you don't mind being shaken up a bit.”
“That is good. How is the country about the —xth mile-post?”
“Dead level, and smooth.”
“Good again. Now, Lieutenant Halsey, this is a splendid head-light, and we can see a long way with my night glass. I will have a——”
“—2d mile-pole just past,” interrupted the engine-driver.
“Only one more to pass, then, before we ought to strike them. Now, lieutenant, I undertake to stop the train within a very short distance of the gang. They will be on both sides of the track, no doubt; and the ground, as you hear, is quite level. You will best know what to do.”
The officer stepped back. “Sergeant,” called he, “do you hear me plainly?”
“Yes, sir.”