"It'll be dark soon."
"All the better. They won't be able to see us in the dark."
"And we won't be able to see our way."
"You're an old pessimist," exclaimed Earl lightly. "Good boy, Jacques," he cried as the young Frenchman came within hearing. "I knew you'd fix us up all right."
"We must hurry," panted Jacques, his breath almost gone after his quick trip across the field. "We haven't much time."
"Can't I help?" inquired Earl eagerly.
"No, thanks; I can probably work faster alone."
He set to work immediately and without wasting a moment or making a false move began the work of repairing the weakened support. Meanwhile Earl and Leon kept a sharp lookout on all sides for any sign of their enemies.
"Who were those priests?" asked Earl finally.
"Frenchmen," replied Jacques keeping right on with his work.