"Duck low, Jim," yelled the engineer; "we will beat them yet. I've got a scheme."
"I'm with you," replied Jim.
This was literally true, for he was right at the heels of the scurrying Bob. As they passed the barricade of stones, Ketchel gave it a quick, searching look, then in a few strides they got to cover in a culvert a number of yards in front of the pile of stone. By the help of a few ties they made a respectable fort.
"So far, so well," said Ketchel, "but it won't do to stay here very long, for they will loot the train."
"Nearly the whole gang is down there," cried Jim, "I can tell by the firing."
"We've got to clear that barricade off the track and quick, too," declared the engineer. "It's our only hope."
"Those stones are pretty heavy to lift off under fire," said Jim composedly, "but I guess we can make a go of it."
"I like your nerve," said Ketchel, a gleam of admiration showing for an instant in his usually noncommittal face, "but I've got something here, that will help us in this hoisting business," and he thrust his hand into one of the pockets of his overalls.
"What is it?" queried Jim.
"Dynamite," replied the engineer, producing a small chunk of the same to view.