I can answer for those fellows behind.
They can't be sure yet what's up." As the soldiers approached, Dick leaned his pistol on the back of the carriage and took a steady aim, and when they were within twenty yards, fired, aiming at the head of one of the horses.

In an instant there was a crash, and the horse and rider were on the ground.

The other soldier at once reined up his horse, bewildered at what had happened, and not knowing even now that the carriage was not occupied by the general's daughters.
"That's right, Jack," Dick said.

"We have got nearly half a mile start of the others, and the forest is, Miss Sinclair said, scarce three miles away.

Let them go it, but be sure you steer straight." The horses were now tearing along at a furious gallop.