The Austrians hesitated a moment before again taking up the chase, and this brief moment was the time the fugitives needed.
As they galloped along, Hal still somewhat in the rear, it grew light and less than a half a mile ahead the riders made out the first Italian outpost. They headed toward it with loud cries, the Austrians now again in pursuit.
Their cries were heard in the Italian lines, and quicker than it takes to tell it, Hal's heart was made glad by the sight of a mounted squadron of Italian troops dashing toward them.
He slowed his horse down to a walk, and turning in the saddle, took a parting shot at the Austrians, who now had turned to flee. One threw up his arms, and dropped to the ground, and the horse went on riderless.
The Italian horsemen pulled up when they reached Hal's side, and the lad explained the situation in a few words.
"If you are quick," he told the officer, "you may take them unaware and rescue my two companions."
The officer wasted no time in words; a quick command to his men, and the troop went on in pursuit of the foe.
Hal turned to Uncle John.
"There is nothing we can do for them," he said. "We shall go to General
Ferrari and make our report."
He led the way, more slowly now.