CHAPTER XIV
HELPED BY AN ENEMY
“What’s that?” inquired Ned, startled at the unexpected sound.
“Loose board, I guess,” replied Jimmie, rather disgruntled at the turn affairs had taken. “The wind’s ripping everything loose!”
Again the tapping was repeated in an insistent manner.
“I’m going to see what’s going on here!” declared Ned, rising from his position. “Some one is trying to communicate with us!”
“Some bloomin’ Dutchman’s tryin’ to ask us whether we want sausage with our pancakes for breakfast!” growled Jimmie. “Let ’em alone!”
Disregarding this statement the older lad proceeded toward the window, where fitful gusts of sleet beat. Outside the darkness covered everything. Only an occasional point of light indicated a sentry hut.
“Who’s there?” demanded Ned in a low tone.
“Sh-h-h!” came a hiss from the darkness. “Open the window!”