Breaking into a quick run he hurried along the road to where it curved sharply. Here they could not be seen by the approaching riders until they actually met.
Alexis took his stand in the center of the road, motioning for the boys to take positions, one on each side of the road. Then all stood waiting.
The hoof beats drew nearer, and then the horses came trotting round the bend.
“Only three! Good!” Hal muttered to himself unconsciously.
The riders were right upon Alexis before they realized that their way was blocked. They quickly drew rein and attempted to check their animals; but it was too late. Alexis had two of the horses by the bridles, and pushing them back on their haunches by main strength, succeeded in unseating the riders.
Hal and Chester pounced upon the two unhorsed men, and had their weapons before they could make a move to defend themselves. Alexis, still holding to the two horses, called upon the lads to cover the third rider, who seemed about to make a dash for liberty.
Hal was quick to obey.
“One move,” he said quietly, as he pointed his newly-acquired revolver squarely at the third man, “and you are a dead man.”
The latter raised his hands above his head. While Hal kept him covered, Chester advanced and relieved him of his weapons. Then he ordered him to dismount.
Alexis now approached with the other two horses, one of which he turned over to Chester. Hal took the third horse.