The lads gazed in startled wonder, scarcely believing their eyes.
CHAPTER XII
THE MIDSHIPMEN RECONNOITRE
The midshipmen were so utterly astonished at the actions of their fanatical enemies that they could only gasp out their surprise in one heartfelt word of relief. Then a familiar voice at their elbow awoke them from their stupefied inactivity. It was in Visayan and they turned to gaze into the impassive face of Rodriguez.
“I have ordered them to escape,” he added in Spanish, casting a quick glance toward the squad of soldiers. “Poor fellows, it would be a pity to kill them, for they are but acting under orders.”
The lads were too grateful to their rescuer for saving their lives to make useless inquiries as to why his influence could be exerted over the acts of their enemy. Phil’s first thought was for the men whom the captain had left them to guard.
“Surround this house,” he commanded, and the sergeant in charge gave a short command and led the way himself to the rear of the large native building.
“It is too late, señor commandante,” Rodriguez said shaking his head; “they have all escaped through the rear door and are by now safely away.”
The midshipmen ran quickly up the steps and gazed disappointedly into the gloom beyond. The floor still lay at the bottom of the cellar, the bamboo spears sticking half-way through, but the natives had gone. The back door stood open and to the ground was a jump of twenty feet. They had safely escaped while the lads were engaged defending themselves against the attack of the bolo-men.
“I am on my way to see General Wilson,” Rodriguez announced after a search had failed to disclose any signs of the fugitives, “and offer my services.”
“Do you mean that you will fight with us against the insurgents?” Phil asked in glad surprise.