The Indian bowed gravely, and departed.
“He’d smell it out, anyway,” muttered Kendrick; “leave a red-skin alone for finding whisky, if thar’s any around. They go for it quick es a coon does for a tall tree when the dogs are arter him. Now I’ll jest warn Kate, so that she will know that the coast is clear. I reckon Girty will swear some when he finds that the gal has broke for tall timber,” and the renegade chuckled in glee.
His fit of laughter over, he looked about him carefully. No one was in sight; so he cautiously gave the signal agreed upon between Kate and himself.
A few moments after the sound of the cough died away on the night air, Kate came cautiously from the wigwam, followed by Virginia.
“All right, gal,” said the renegade, quickly. “The Injun’s out of the way, but don’t let grass grow under your feet between hyer and the Ohio. They may diskiver that you’ve cut your stick any moment.”
“Do not worry, father; I know every foot of the ground between here and the river,” replied the girl, a strange nervousness patent in her voice. “Come, lady; do not fear; before this night is over, you shall be free from danger.”
“Thar ain’t much danger in the grave,” muttered the renegade between his teeth.
Then Kate led the way into the wood, and Virginia followed without a word.
The renegade watched them until the dark shadows of the forest closed around them and they were hid from his view.
“I reckon my little gal will fix her,” muttered the renegade, in a tone of satisfaction.