What was to be done?
There seemed no other way but to forge straight ahead, and take chances of breaking through the line of the new foe.
But suddenly a great light flashed up, which made for some seconds the whole vicinity as plain as day.
It was a signal light, burned by those in front, and Barney saw to his amazement and delight the outlines of a large body of soldiers.
A great cry of joy and triumph went up from the Celt’s lips.
“Och hone, an’ if it ain’t sogers they be!” he cried. “Shure, the luck is wid us an’ we’re safe the while!”
“Golly! yo’ don’ mean it,” cried Pomp, “den dot am a berry lucky fing. Dem sogers can jes’ help Marse Frank fo’ to cotch dem countingfitters.”
“Yez are right!” cried Barney.
Then he closed the throttle and applied the brake.
The Steam Horse quickly came to a halt. The result was thrilling.