the roof of the first boat and as it struck the water raised so great an upheaval as to nearly capsize both canoes. It was followed by a volley of rifle shot from the ramparts, which killed two of the oarsmen. But the current swept the boats rapidly away and before the soldiers had time to reload they had become lost in the intense darkness.
"That discharge has hit them," said the doctor, who had left his bed to see the cause of the commotion. "I heard a distinct cry from the canoes."
"Yes," replied the Colonel, "it has hit them, but—that is only the first part of the play. I ought not to have allowed myself to be talked over by the Tomonggong into postponing the pursuit until to-morrow. Perhaps what has just happened ought to have been prevented. Have you seen Troenosmito's wound?"
"Yes, it is only a graze."
"Well, let us retire. I know pretty well whither the deserters are bound. Early in the morning we will start in pursuit." The two men shook hands and soon a deep silence reigned through the fortress interrupted only by the regular tread of the sentry.
