As the four dashed across the stockade to the fort, Jack, who had not taken his eyes from the window since his friends left, quickly unbarred and threw open the door.
The four dashed inside. Quickly Jack barred the door again.
"Guns ready!" he cried. "The pirates may attack!"
Frank turned to Captain Jack.
"Well, my friend, Mr. Pirate Chief," he said with a grin, "we have you safe at last, eh?"
Captain Jack's only reply was a subdued growl.
CHAPTER XXVI
CONVERSION OF CAPTAIN JACK
"Here they come!" cried Jack from the window. Half a dozen forms flitted through the stockade gate and dashed toward the fort. Jack's revolver flashed twice and one man rolled over on the ground; but the others came on. Bullets struck close to the window as the pirates returned the fire.
"Here, Williams," said Frank, "take charge of Captain Jack. I'll lend
Jack a hand at the window."