Grant looked at the girl a second, considering.
"Very well, lass! Do it," said her father with a smile. "Ye're good for it and there is not any time to waste. Be careful, for the night is dark."
Before her father had reached the stable Margaret was in the saddle and away.
Andy was easily aroused and in an incredibly short time was astride Night.
"You ride back home," directed he to Margaret. "I'll push Night through. It is half-past eleven and we have four miles to run. I may be in time to scare them off. Your Dad and the others will be right on my heels."
With a farewell shout he plunged into the storm. The sound of Night's speeding hoofs smote her ears then died away. Reluctantly she turned Flash for home and trotted off. They had proceeded but a few rods when she reined him in and halted abruptly, loitering irresolute.
"Come, Flash! About!" was her sudden command. "We'll be in it, too."
Wheeling her mount she sent him at a gallop after Night and his rider.
Andy put his horse through at a stiff pace. The homestead was shrouded in blackness as he approached. Riding through the gate he cantered swiftly down the lane, and pulled up beside the house. He had but halted when he discerned the dim movement of figures on all sides of him. With the consciousness of their presence came the realization that they were men.
"Good-night, gentlemen!" he called.