The cabin, too, like the other, was deserted. The perpetual danger existing of Indian attacks had caused the settlers to seek the protection of the station.
“There, young lady, this must be your home for a little while,” said Benton, as he strode into the cabin and placed Virginia upon her feet.
“Must I remain here?” asked the girl, in wonder.
“Yes, for a short time,” replied Benton.
“But why not take me at once to Point Pleasant?”
“Why it would probably cost both of us our lives should we attempt to reach the station at present,” replied Benton. “The woods between here and the mouth of the river are swarming with red-skins. You can judge how bold they are, when they dared attack and carry you off from so near the station.”
Virginia had little idea that one of her captors, one of the “red-men,” was even then speaking to her.
“Did you see my capture in the ravine?”
“Yes; I was concealed in the bushes. I did not dare to show myself, for the Indians were too strong. But I followed, hoping to get the chance by cunning to get you out of their hands.”