“But it means delay and expense,” cried Ruth.
“How mean!” exploded Helen. “I’d like to do something to that Bilby.”
“Have you money—plenty of money?” Ruth demanded of the Indian.
“I have money,” said Wonota, touching the bosom of her blouse. “We do not need much. We shall live quietly there until Mr. Hammond sends for us. We will be faithful to you, Miss Ruth.”
She turned, with more impulsiveness than she usually showed, and kissed the white girl’s cheek.
“You are so good to me!” she cried. “I will not forget all you have taught me. And I will rehearse every day so to be perfect when Mr. Hooley wants me again.”
There was no way to stop her. Indeed, as Mr. Hammond had advised this sudden move, Ruth knew she had no right to interfere. It was evident that an emergency had arisen of which she, herself, knew nothing. In some way the enemy had forced Mr. Hammond’s hand. Totantora and his daughter were in danger of being brought into court after all, and Mr. Hammond did not wish that to come about.
The Indian girl stepped lightly into the canoe and picked up the extra paddle. Her father leaped in after her, pushed the light craft away from the rock, and seized his own paddle. In another moment the canoe shot away from the island and off toward the broad expanse of the open St. Lawrence.
Helen and Ruth stared after them—then at each other. Naturally it was Helen who first regained her voice and gave expression to her amazement.
“What do you know about that?” she demanded.