Crack! crack!
Outside two shots rang suddenly out, to be followed by a dozen swift, scattering reports.
“Mr. Reade! They—” began a voice outside, then stopped abruptly.
Tom hustled on his clothing again with a speed that seemed to partake of magic. Then, with Harry close upon his heels, he rushed to the door, jerking it open.
“Just the pair we want!” snarled a voice that proceeded from behind a mask.
A dozen masked men pressed into the room. Tom and Harry put their fists into instant action, but it availed them nothing.
In a twinkling they were borne to the floor. At lightning speed both were rolled over and bound.
From the tents of the laborers, beyond hoarse voices sounded as the men were awakened by the shots.
“Get back there, you idiots!” commanded a voice outside. “If you don't, you'll think that a Gatling gun factory has blown up about your ears.”
Reports rang out sharply as a dozen revolver shots were fired into the air.