CHAPTER XXI—ON THE ACADEMY STEPS
They approached the academy cautiously, yet in a hurried manner. Lights were in the barracks windows, suggesting warmth and comfort within. Outside the driving wind was cold and biting. Away to the southwest the burning woods flung a red glow against the clouds, and this light reached even to the academy. They feared the light would betray them as they approached, and they slipped up swiftly.
Sure enough, some one was sitting on the steps outside the door. Who was it? They halted beneath the leafless trees and held a consultation. What was to be done?
“We must get in somehow,” said Hogan.
“I’m sorry I came out to-night,” averred Crauthers.
“It’s been a bad night,” came dolefully from Stark.
Miguel Bunol had kept near them, but he did not venture to take part in the conversation.
They watched the figure on the steps for some time. Now and then they looked away toward the strip of burning woods, and the reflected light revealed the terror in their eyes.
They thought of the boy who had been stricken down and left for the flames, and it robbed them of strength and courage and manhood.
“If that fool would leave the steps!” muttered Stark. “But he sits there like a dummy.”