“Nothing is more likely; we must not forget to prepare for them, for they may be close at hand.”

“What do you suggest?”

“I will walk far enough in advance to give warning. When I see or hear aught of them, I will whistle like this.”

He illustrated and added:

“When that falls upon your ears, you will make haste to turn off into the wood.”

“But there are many places where we cannot turn off, without taking a plunge down a precipice.”

“Then run back till you find one.”

Martella now strode down the path, which was so deeply shadowed that he quickly slipped from view.

“With your permission, Major, I will follow next, keeping a short way in advance of the Señorita and the horse. You may take the front or rear, as you think best.”

“I will keep at the bridle. I cannot see that danger threatens from the Castle, and surely we are well guarded in front.”