Yes, that big, double gate, moved by some unseen force, was swinging open. In another instant it would admit into the compound, the vanguard of a mob of frantic yellow men.
With a gasp of terror, when he thought of the defenceless women in the yamen Ensign Dave Darrin rushed forward at a run, revolver in hand.
[CHAPTER X—THE CLIMAX OF THE ATTACK]
As he ran in beyond the zone of light by the gate, Dave saw more clearly through the darkness. Good reason was there for that double barrier to swing open.
At the wheel and windlass of the gate stood Pembroke, both arms tugging hard and succeeding in slowly swinging the halves of the gate inward.
So intent was he upon his treacherous achievement that Pembroke neither saw nor heard the man dashing upon him.
Whack! A blow with the butt of Darrin’s revolver laid the scoundrel flat.
On to the gate dashed Dave, just as an exultant yell outside told him that the yellow multitude was about to rush in.
Slam up against the gate rushed Ensign Dave, the force of his body sending the two halves shut.
Outside the tumult increased, as scores of yellow shoulders were hurled against the barrier.