“What’s our first move?” asked Dick. “Do you intend to meet the outlaws face to face? Aren’t there too many for us?”
“The best way to defeat a gang like this is to capture its leader. That’s what I propose to do now. Murky Nichols is the man I want. He’s the directing force here, the brains behind every move. The others are mere chessmen. He’s the player. I intend to walk right over in the presence of every one of his men and take him prisoner.”
“What!” gasped Dick.
“I can do it.” Rand’s voice was calm.
It was a breathless, incredible thing that Rand proposed. A desperate plan indeed—seemingly foolhardy! It required bravery of the deepest brand—nerves of steel and a courage that would never falter.
“You can’t make it,” almost whimpered Dick. “A bullet will bring you down before you go fifty yards.”
“I don’t think so,” the corporal answered, only a slight tremor in his voice. “There’s a psychology about this thing, Dick, that neither you nor I understand. At first, they’ll be too startled to do anything. By the time they have recovered from their surprise, they won’t be able to shoot without endangering the lives of Nichols and the two sailors. At any rate, I’m willing to take the chance.”
“It isn’t fair!” Dick protested hotly. “Why should you run all the risks alone? Corporal Rand, I won’t permit it. If you’re going to walk over there, I’m going with you.”
The suspicion of a twinkle showed in Rand’s unwavering gray eyes. But his voice was stern.
“Who’s in command here?”