THE HILL-FORT
Lewis got to his feet and blinked at the morning sun across the yard.
"That was a near shave. Phew, I hate being a target for sharpshooting! These devils are your friends the Bada-Mawidi."
"The deuce they are," said Andover lugubriously. "I always knew it. I've told Holm a hundred times, and now here is the beggar away sick and I am left to pay the piper."
"I know. I met him in Bardur, and that's why I'm here. He told me to tell you to mind the north gate."
"More easily said than done. We're too few by half here if things get nasty. How was the chap looking?"
"Pretty miserable. Thwaite and I put him to bed. Then they sent me off here, for I've got news for you. You know a man called Marker?"
Andover nodded.
"I was dining with him the day before yesterday, and yesterda
