Part 17 (1/2)
”I hope to enjoy your favor, as I did that of Captain Stockton,”
continued Fletcher s shortly
”I would like to suggest that the two boys”--here Fletcher turned in the direction where Harry and Jack had been standing, and ejaculated in dismay, ”I don't see thee of the excitement and confusion to run away, I fancy,” said the new captain quietly
This was quite true Just after the fatal shot had been fired, and the attention of all had been taken up by the tragedy, Harry had whispered to Jack, ”Now's our time to escape, Jack Follow me!”
”I'm with you,” responded Jack pro the trees
”Shall I go after the?” asked Fletcher in excitement
”I'll take another man, and scour the woods for the indifferently ”Let theo! They would only be in our way”
”But,” protested Fletcher, ”Captain Stockton ht and srow up into usefulearnestly ”Our lives are spoiled already, and we have no chance but to continue Leave thee talk for a captain of bushrangers,” said Fletcher, disappointed
”Re sharply, ”and don't attempt to interfere with me! Go, I would be alone”
Fletcher slunk away, mortified and disappointed It ell for the two boys that he had not been elected captain
CHAPTER XV
LOST IN THE WOODS
Yes, the two boys had escaped When the exciteht, it had flashed upon Harry like an inspiration that then, if ever, was the time to escape He knew that it would be at the risk of their lives, and but for one consideration it is doubtful if he would have been willing to incur the peril of the attereat that of being coers, and of that he had a great dread
The boys never stopped running till they had set half a ers Jack was the first to show distress
”Hold on, Harry,” he said, panting, ”I am all out of breath”
Harry instantly slackened his speed
”Look back, Jack,” he said anxiously; ”see if you can discover anyone pursuing us”
”I see no one,” answered Jack after a prolonged look
”They have other things to think of,” said Harry ”The hts of us out of their heads When the excitement has subsided a little, I am afraid they will look for us How terrible it was!” he added with a shudder
”Yes,” returned Jack ”I saw that man--the captive's brother--lift his weapon and point it at the captain Aled and the captain fell He ht what lay before me when I left home,” said Harry
”I wish I knehat lies before us now,” said Jack