We're rightly afraid of an ambush if we go on, then why not make the same danger theirs?
I think it likely that the other force is coming this way.

Anyway, we can tell in a minute or two, 'cause them owls are sure to hoot again.

If I'm right, we can catch 'em napping." "An excellent idea, Sergeant.

Ah! there are the signals you predicted!" The owl hooted again from the same point directly in front, and then came the reply of the other, now nearer.

The sergeant drew a deep breath of satisfaction.
"Yes, sir, I was right," he said.