Obeying the summons they were led to a rear room where were assembled the principal officers of the mine, all looking more or less frightened, and the superintendent said as they entered:
"Is there anything to prevent your doing as I wish during the next few hours."
"Not that I know of, sir," Fred replied. "We were about to fasten up the broken windows at home; but that is of little consequence in case you require our services."
"The force of men on guard at the slope is too small if the rioters try to effect an entrance. It is in the highest degree important that Billings' crowd be prevented from getting in, until all our arrangements have been made. Will you go on duty there until troops can be summoned?"
"We are willing to do everything in our power."
"Then arm yourselves with these guns."
Mr. Wright pointed to a number of muskets as he spoke, and Sam did not delay in selecting a weapon.
"I must tell mother where I have gone or she will be worried," Fred said, as he started toward the door.
"I will call upon her at once, and you need not delay."
"How long are we likely to remain on duty?"