And such proved to be the case. The gate was thrown open, and out came about a score of redcoats and started on the track of Ben. They yelled to him to stop and surrender, but of course he paid no attention to them, but ran onward as fast as possible. He was not much alarmed, as he was sure he could reach the edge of the forest before the redcoats could get within musket-shot distance, and then he could evade his pursuers in the underbrush and darkness, he felt certain.
He was not long in reaching the desired haven, and he dashed in among the trees, drawing a breath of relief as he did so, and slackened his speed, somewhat, as he did not think it necessary to run so fast. He could give the redcoats the slip, now that he was in among the trees.
He was soon out of hearing of his pursuers, who doubtless did not follow him very far into the forest. In less than an hour’s time he was at the patriot encampment, and had made his report to General Greene.
The information he gave the general, about the size of the fort, and the extent and thickness of the walls, was of considerable interest and value, and the general thanked the youth for having secured the information.
“I hope to capture the fort in a few days,” the general said.
CHAPTER XVIII
Dick and the Panther
Dick Dare had no doubt that the animal in the pit with him was a panther. He judged by the growl, which was stronger than would have been the case had the animal been a wildcat.
He felt that he was indeed in a serious predicament. Had he had his pistols, or even a knife, he would have stood some chance to hold his own against the animal, but he had no weapons of any kind.
So he simply stood still, at one corner of the pit, and kept his eyes on the two balls of fire.
There was silence for a few moments, and then Dick saw the two red spots move, and he was confident they were advancing toward him, slowly but surely.