Managan, follow me.' He dropped from his horse and led the animal to Harry, to whom he threw the rein.

Christina did not attempt to bar his passage, and he and Managan passed into the house.

Chris stood by the door jamb, facing Harry, erect and pale; Harry leant against the big galvanised-iron tank, absently fondling the head of the trooper's horse.

Suddenly, a moment after the troopers had entered the house, he heard right at his elbow the sound of something striking upon the iron of the tank inside.

He started forward with a low cry, and his eyes flew to the face of the girl.