Hiss—splutter—flare!
The fuse was burning!
Instantly both men turned toward the door, Jones hurrying out in advance. As he reached the door, Dugan turned to say:
“In one minute the fuse’ll reach ter their powder! Good-by!”
Then he went out, and Frank Merriwell was left in a situation of frightful peril.
CHAPTER XVI.
A SHOT FOR A LIFE.
For a moment after their departure Frank remained in a sort of stupor. They had closed the door behind them, and the only light came in by the broken window. Out there was the open air, freedom, life; in the hut was a boy on the brink of eternity.
Death was close to Frank Merriwell then. He knew it. A prayer welled up to his lips.