Virginia followed Kate without fear.
Once within the wood, Kate enjoined caution upon her companion.
“It is a long and weary way from here to Point Pleasant,” she said.
“I have traversed it once already, then a prisoner. It will not seem so long now, for I know that each step is taking me nearer to my dear home and those I love,” Virginia replied, cheerfully.
Kate looked at the fair girl, a mournful smile upon her olive-tinged features.
“And you trust yourself fearlessly in my hands?” Kate asked.
“Yes, why should I fear?” Virginia said, in a tone of wonder.
“Am I not the daughter of a renegade?” Kate asked, a world of bitterness in her tone.
“You are not answerable for the faults of others,” Virginia said, gently. “I freely trust my life in your hands and I have no fear.”
They were proceeding rapidly through the wood as they spoke.