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GILBERT AND MAJOR MORRIS DEPART
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to which the two belonged had struck camp and marched for Manila. "They are bound for China," said Colonel Darcy. "The Boxers in that country have started a revolution, or something like it, and some of Uncle Sam's men are wanted in Pekin and elsewhere to protect American interests."

"China!" cried the young major. "Who ever dreamed that Uncle Sam would send troops to that country!"

"Matters look mighty black there, major. I wouldn't be surprised if Major Morris and Lieutenant Gilbert see a whole lot of fighting before they come back."

"I am sorry I didn't see the major and Pennington, to bid them good-by."

"They were sorry, too. They may stay in Manila for a while, and if so, and things remain quiet here, you can run down and see them off." And so it was arranged. Ben went down to Manila as soon as he could get away, anxious not only to see his friends, but also to learn if Larry had received any word from the prison authorities.

"Nothing yet," said Larry, when the brothers met. "But one of the keepers, a man named Provost, is certain that Benedicto Lupez is up to