The men stumbled over fallen trees, and each of them fell headlong half a dozen times before the seemingly long night came to an end; but still they were urged on at the best possible pace until sunrise, when a brief halt was made. Two hours after the journey had been resumed the trail was found, and from that time on until the outskirts of the settlement was gained, the party marched at a reasonably rapid rate of speed. Once a glimpse of Sudbury was had Isaac became exceedingly prudent, and insisted upon calling a halt, while Nathan declared they should press forward until the prisoners could be delivered to Captain Baker. "I shan't feel comfortable in mind until all three are off our hands, for there's no knowing how many friends they may have in the settlement." "That is exactly why I would halt here," Isaac replied, and Corporal 'Lige would have rejoiced had he known how rapidly his recruit was learning his duties as a soldier. "We do not know in which house Captain Baker lives, and while making inquiries, still having the prisoners with us, we might come upon those who would turn the tables once more, before we had so much as gained speech with the officer." "Then what would you do?" "We are within less than half a mile of the settlement. Let us march the prisoners into the thicket, where they will be hidden from view of any who may come this way, and while one stands guard over them, the other can seek out the captain. After that has been done he can take charge of the affair, and our work will be well and thoroughly done." "Who is to remain here?" Nathan asked. "It shall be as you say." Young Beman remained silent a moment, and then, with the air of one who has decided an important question, said: "You shall go into the settlement, and if either of these Tories so much as opens his mouth while you are gone, I'll put a bullet through him." "And you must not hesitate to carry out that threat," Isaac added firmly. "Now is come the time when we may prevent any news from being carried to Crown Point, and at the same moment deliver Colonel Allen's message, therefore blood must be spilled if necessary." Jones and White looked thoroughly alarmed, while Jason Wentworth said approvingly: "You lads are in the right, from your own standpoint, which is a wrong one, however; but since we have been so dull as to let you get the best of us, it is but proper we should pay the penalty for disobeying orders." "Will you give us your word not to make an outcry if any person should pass by on the trail?" Isaac quietly, having no little respect for this enemy who could look upon the situation so fairly. "If by giving up my life I can prevent the capture of Crown Point, you may be certain I shall not hesitate."