"Pass the word to the men and we'll slip back. I don't like the silence behind the hedge. I suspect that the men have been withdrawn and that we are to be flanked below the sugar mill. Tell the men to fall back by rushes, not returning any fire unless ordered."
"Aye, aye, sir."
A moment later ten jackies were retreating. They gained the sugar mill, and passed it.
"Hicks," called Ensign Darrin, "get your party aboard. Run for it!"
"Aye, aye, sir."
"And help this wounded man back to the launch."
The sailor, who had been carrying the second wounded man, turned him over to Hicks, who carried his burden manfully.
Dave continued to retreat more slowly with his fighting force, taking frequent observations rearward. From the hedge a few, sniping shots came now and then, but, as no one was hit, Darrin did not allow the fire to be returned.
Suddenly, three hundred yards away, a volley crashed out on the right.
"Flanked!" muttered Darrin, grimly, as Riley threw his men into line to meet the new attack. "I expected it. Aim two feet above the ground, men, and fire at will until you have emptied your magazines twice."