Instantly the machines in command of Burns and Maitland swerved in opposite directions.
Danny was at the wheel of Maitland’s machine. Knowing the lay of the land, he put on full speed, and was soon leading the others by a comfortable margin.
As their machine bore down on the ranch, Danny and O’Hara realized that their course would bring them just to the rear of the Brown bungalow.
Closer and closer drew the raiding party.
Suddenly, as their eyes were fixed on the prospect ahead, the sleeping camp seemed roused to activity. Silhouetted figures dashed here and there. It was evident that the noise of the oncoming cars had been heard and the alarm sounded.
The first clear indication of this came in Danny’s quarter.
Before the three men had time to form a definite plan, a loud chugging announced the presence of Brown’s huge car in the immediate vicinity. Evidently the occupants of the camp had determined on flight, and, even now, were prepared to dash for the open.
Suddenly the big car rounded the corner of the bungalow, and instantly picking up speed, darted away to the southward.
“Stop that car!” shouted Maitland. “Shoot low! Don’t let him get away! Aim for the tires.”
A fusillade of shots rang out as O’Hara and Maitland poised their rifles an instant and started to pump bullets at the dark retreating mass.