"If it's all the same to you," was the reply, "we'll serve as orderlies."
"Very well. Will you," turning to Adrian, "go back to the custom house and tell Captain Rush that we have reached our position. You," to Billie, "ride with all speed to the landing and say that the enemy has retreated toward the water works. They should not be allowed to stop long enough to do any damage."
The two boys were off like the wind to carry the orders.
"Anything for me?" asked Donald.
"Not for the present. Better dismount and get behind something."
Two minutes later Adrian pulled up in front of the Custom House and delivered his message, while Billie kept on to the water's edge.
"Do you know where the water works are?" asked the officer to whom Billie gave his order.
"Yes, sir!"
"Then lead us to it."
Without a word Billie obeyed and the Jackies followed on the run.