Be careful no prowling trooper stumbles on you; keep the men still." I saw the dim movement as he saluted and felt no doubt of obedience,--he was too old and tried a soldier to fail.

I crept forward, scouted about the cabin to make sure it was unoccupied, and then advanced into the shadows of the orchard.

I was all nerves now, all alertness, every instinct awake, seeing the slightest movement, hearing the faintest noise.

There were voices--just a mumble--in the direction of the stable, and, as I drew in closer toward the house I could distinguish sounds as though a considerable party were at table--yet even the tinkle of knife and plate was muffled; probably the dining-room was on the opposite side.

However, this would seem to indicate the presence of the one we sought, although so late a supper would render our task more difficult of execution.