"I have ascertained," he said, "that this tree stands immediately over
the magazine; and by following this rabbit's burrow, I have contrived to
make a small entrance into it. A hollow reed introduced through the
hole, and filled with powder, will be sure to reach the store below."
"An excellent ideal" replied Fenwolf. " I will fetch one instantly."
And starting off to the side of the lake, he presently returned with
several long reeds, one of which was selected by Tristram and thrust
into the burrow. It proved of the precise length required; and as soon
as it touched the bottom, it was carefully filled with powder from a horn.
Having connected this tube with the side train, and scattered powder
for several yards around, so as to secure instantaneous ignition,
Tristram pronounced that the train was complete.
"We have now laid a trap from which Herne will scarcely escape," he
observed, with a moody laugh, to Fenwolf.
They then prepared to return to the cave, but had not proceeded many
yards, when Herne, mounted on his sable steed, burst through the
trees.
"Ah! what make you here? " he cried, instantly checking his career. "I
bade you keep a strict watch over MabeL Where is she?
"She has escaped with Sir Thomas Wyat," replied Fenwolf, "and we
have been in search of them.
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