"Three, full of men. They're levelling rifles at us."
"Won't there be a smash when they come to the curve!"
"We're gaining a little, but they'll make up on us when we come to the bend."
"We must go faster. I can't leave the wheel. Ruggles, go to the exhaust valve and double the pressure."
"Good heavens! It won't stand it."
"It must! Hurry up, man."
Ruggles, as an expert mechanician, knew the risk involved. By adjusting the valve admitting pressure from the exhaust to the petrol tank it could show double the pressure on the tank gauge. By this means the explosive mixture would be enriched and more power gained. But there would be an immense risk of over-heating the cylinders.
"I don't think----" he began.
"Quick! quick, man!" said Will.
Hesitating no longer, Ruggles did what was required of him. The hydroplane flew on. In half-a-minute it had gained a furlong on the train. Fearing that their prey was escaping them, the men on the trucks fired a volley, some resting their rifles on the sides, others even venturing to mount, being held up on the jolting vehicles by their comrades. More bullets struck the windscreen; Will did not notice that Azito's right arm dropped by his side. The Indian did not utter a sound.