"I accept your congratulations, Fletcher," he said, "and condole with you on your own disappointment. We can't all be leaders."
"I hope to enjoy your favor, as I did that of Captain Stockton," continued Fletcher smoothly.
"That will depend on yourself," said Ring shortly.
"I would like to suggest that the two boys"—here Fletcher turned in the direction where Harry and Jack had been standing, and ejaculated in dismay, "I don't see them. What has become of them?"
"They have taken advantage of the excitement and confusion to run away, I fancy," said the new captain quietly.
This was quite true. Just after the fatal shot had been fired, and the attention of all had been taken up by the tragedy, Harry had whispered to Jack, "Now's our time to escape, Jack. Follow me!"
"I'm with you," responded Jack promptly, and no one noticed the two as they vanished among the trees.
"Shall I go after them, Captain Ring?" asked Fletcher in excitement. "I'll take another man, and scour the woods for them."
"It is not necessary," said Ring indifferently. "Let them go! They would only be in our way."
"But," protested Fletcher, "Captain Stockton meant to take them into the band. They are bright and smart boys, and would grow up into useful members."