That's the crucial spot." The grade grew sharper as they descended, and the pace of the car increased.

Now, at the bottom, stretching across the white road, they could see a heavy shadow and above on what was unquestionably the railway, half a dozen lights.
"They've got more than a sentry there.

It seems to be a regular post," said Fred, a little nervous, as they approached.

"I'd like to slow down here--we're taking this hill pretty fast." "Yes," agreed Boris, who was driving.

"But it's not just the time to slow down, is it ?" "Hardly.