"I shall turn back, follow those fellows if possible, and try to come upon them unawares to-night, when there should be a chance to aid our friends."
"Suppose you fail?" I asked, turning over in my mind the possibilities of his being able to accomplish anything of importance.
"If I find that they are on the alert against a rescue, or if there are too many, it will yet be time to turn my horse's head toward Maddock's Mill."
CHAPTER IV.
THE RESCUE.
When Sidney had thus announced his purpose I asked myself what might be the chances of success, and after due reflection it appeared to me as if the possibilities were rather in his favor, because it did not seem probable the royalists would anticipate any attempt at a rescue.
They must have overheard the command given us to ride back with all speed, and could hardly suppose two lads like ourselves would take the chances of making an attack, therefore we were likely to find them off their guard.
Yes, so I decided, the scheme might be worked if we proceed cautiously, and even in case we found it impossible to do anything, the delay would be trifling, provided Sidney was willing to give over the effort if a rescue could not be brought about that same night, therefore I asked:
"Will you agree to set your horse's head toward Maddock's Mill by sunrise, in case you fail in the purpose during this night?"
"Yes, that much I promise, for I'm of the opinion that unless the work can be done before to-morrow morning there is no chance for us to carry it through without assistance."
"Then I shall do what I may toward aiding you."