From beyond the pursuers arose a puff of smoke, followed by a faint report. It was the sound of a revolver.
"They've bumped into another enemy of some kind," said Chester. "Wonder how strong this new force is?"
"Can't be very strong or those fellows would be heading this way," declared Hal. "Maybe they think it's us."
"That's about the size of it," declared Colonel Anderson.
There was another puff of smoke at this moment, and one of the enemy fell.
"Bully for you, whoever you are," shouted Chester. "Say!" he added, "what's the matter with taking them in the rear? They haven't spotted us yet."
"I was thinking of that," said Colonel Anderson. "Guess it can be done all right. Will your horse carry double that far, Hal?"
"He'll have to," replied the lad grimly.
"Good. Are you ready?"
"When you give the word."