Finally, five minutes before the time of departure, two big motor cars rolled around the corner and stopped in front of the house. A moment later, Burns came up the steps, puffing from his exertions.
Mr. Southwick appeared, and after assuring himself that every man in the party was fully armed, he led the way to the waiting automobiles. The two men at the wheel, who were members of Mr. Southwick’s office, appeared to have received their instructions already. Doubtless, their chief had informed them of the nature of the job to be done.
Danny and O’Hara were loath to leave Mr. Southwick and his aids, now that the expedition was about to set out. So, after a hurried word with the government official, they again boarded Mary Louise’s little machine and started with the others for the distant ranch.
For a considerable distance, the three machines sped over the road that Danny and O’Hara had already traveled earlier in the night. To prevent the quarry from escaping, in case the pursuit were discovered prematurely, Mr. Southwick decided to steer a course far to the southward. About five miles from the ranch a wide detour was made, and after an hour of rapid driving over bumpy, dusty roads, the party drew up and halted at a signal from the leading machine.
Gathering the force around him, Mr. Southwick said:
“Now, men, I hardly need to tell you that this venture is a dangerous one. We are dealing with desperadoes, and they will fight for their lives. I have been thinking over a plan of action, and I think the best thing to do is to divide ourselves into three groups. Burns, you will command the first group, and when we get within a half mile of the ranch, you will turn to the left and approach from that direction. Maitland, I’ll put you in with Mr. Dexter and Mr. O’Hara. You three will take your position on the right. I’ll take the center and go straight north. If escape is attempted, you must shoot. Under no circumstances must we allow these traitors to escape. Shoot, if necessary. Take no chances, but be sure that bullets are necessary before you start in. Each man will have to take care of himself. And remember, no matter what happens, you are doing no more than any loyal American citizen is expected to do.”
Approval was written on the faces of the assembled men, and when Mr. Southwick put the question, “Is everybody ready?” their response was unanimous.
A moment later and the three machines were again in motion.
The ranch was now very near. The moon shone down with crystalline clearness as the various buildings, separating themselves from the background, appeared to the spectator only as towering black objects.
“Spread apart, men!” commanded the leader of the party.