men told off as sentries and to look after the horses, the whole party
slept quietly for some hours. It had been determined to start in time to
arrive at the farmhouse before it was dark, as the boys required daylight
to enable them to recognize the locality; besides which it was advisable
to get as far back upon the return journey as possible before daybreak.
The boys were now riding in front with their father.

"That is the wood," Ned said presently. "I know by those three palm trees
growing together in a clump, at a short distance in advance. I noticed
them particularly."

"Where is the house?" Major Warrener asked.

"We ought to see the house," Dick said, and he looked at his brother
apprehensively.

"Yes," Ned said; "we certainly ought to see it."

"You are sure you are not mistaken in the locality?" their father asked.

"Quite sure," the boys answered together; "but the house----"

"Let us gallop on," Major Warrener said, catching the fear which was
expressed in each of his sons' faces.

Five minutes' riding, and they drew up their horses with a cry of dismay.
A large patch of wood ashes marked the spot where the house had stood. No
words were needed; the truth was apparent; the fugitives had been
discovered, and the abode of their protectors destroyed. Their two friends
joined the little group, and the rest of the troop dismounted at a short