run the Americano through and through. Clack! clack! went the blades, up and down, side to side, and straight forward.
"Take care there!" came from Major Morris, and just then the Tagal's sword pricked Ben's arm. The young captain leaped back a step, then came forward, and as quick as lightning his sword found the Tagal's ribs. At the same time Dan Casey fired at the enemy, and the officer went down flat on his back, shot through the breast.
"I had to do it," cried the Irish volunteer. "I thought he was afther stickin' ye like a pig!"
"It was a close shave," murmured Ben, as he passed on. "He handled his sword like an expert. I shan't forget you for that, Casey."
"Sure, an' that's all right, captain," answered the soldier, quickly. "Is your arm hurted much?"
"I guess not. Come, we've got them on the run again." And away the pair went, into the canebrake, through which the rebels were crashing like so many wild cattle.
The day had been full of excitement, but much more was to follow. The cane-brakes were heavy, and soon Ben and Casey found themselves separated from the main body of the battalion and out of sight
