Billy’s men had dropped flat and were crawling toward the open space in front of the palace when a light footfall was distinctly heard approaching. Billy lifted his head and saw Zonia. She halted with quick precision and gave the countersign.
In a moment she was in his arms.
“What on earth’s the matter, little girl?” he whispered excitedly.
“Virginia fears that Waldron suspects,” was the quick answer.
“Nonsense”—
“He has doubled the guard—Virginia says you’d better retreat until a full division comes up—”
“I’ll not do it,” Billy broke in. “Four to one, or ten to one, I’m going to take that house—”
“She’ll give the signal if I don’t return,” Zonia warned.
“All right—I’m ready,” was the firm response. In quick business fashion Billy led Zonia back of his lines. “Wait here and report if I fail”—
The young Captain crept back to his place and watched for the flash from the Madison Square tower and the signal of lights out from within.