In this dangerous prospect every passenger left the cars at this place, but the order came for the train to go on if a suitable escort could be raised.
In twenty minutes as many armed men were waiting a start, though, as Jack looked over the motley party, he realized that not one of them would be worth a fig in a fight with the bush-raiders. Worse than that, he felt confident that the majority, if not all, were in league with the outlaws, and when the proper time came would openly join with them in trying to capture the train.
But the station agent, blind to this fact, priding himself upon having done his duty, pompously ordered Jack to proceed on his way.
As if not to be outdone, the conductor who remained with one brakeman, reiterated the command.
“It looks so we were in for it,” said Jack, as he took his post at the lever. “What do you say, Plum, have you the grit to try it?”
“I am with you, Jack, let come what may. See! I have got on a smashing head of steam.”
Without another word Jack pulled the bell-cord, and, throwing the valves wide open, sent the train thundering out of the station along the gleaming track into dangers which the bravest would not have cared to anticipate.
Chapter XIII
Precious Moments
The little crowd at the station waved their hands and gave expression to prolonged cries, as the train thundered away on its perilous run.