And then, at last, in the heart of the city, the column came out upon the low hillside on which was the great square surrounding the governor’s yamen.
None in front opposed Darrin’s command, but a crowd that must have numbered two thousand followed close at the heels of the detachment.
“Going to halt in the center of the square?” Dan inquired in a low tone.
“No,” rejoined Ensign Dave. “I shall march up to the main gate in the compound wall.”
“And then—?” inquired Dalzell.
“I shall demand to be admitted to the American refugees.”
“And if you are refused?” pressed Dan.
“That will be the governor’s worry,” replied Dave quietly.
[CHAPTER V—SIN FOO HAS HIS DOUBTS]
It was a gray stone wall, some twelve feet high, that surrounded the compound of the yamen. Sentries in the uniform of Chinese soldiery were pacing the top of this formidable rampart.