As Faith stepped from the canoe the man tried to thank her.
“Some day your Uncle Scott will hear of this, and be proud indeed of so brave a child,” he said, “and I shall tell Colonel Allen your name, and of your courage. Be sure of that. You have helped the American cause more than a regiment of soldiers.”
Faith said over his words as she made her way across the fields. She recalled her first visit to the fort. “I’m glad those girls ran off that day,” she thought, as she gently tried the back door. It was securely fastened. A low warning growl from “Scotchie” made her fear to lift a window. He would arouse the household. She stood on the steps, shivering a little in the sharp March wind. “I must get in without making a noise,” she thought. But she could think of no way to accomplish it.
In spite of her silence “Scotchie” realized that some one was outside. He barked, growled, and once or twice threw himself against the door. Then suddenly his growls stopped, and, before Faith had time to move, the kitchen door opened slightly and she heard her uncle say, “Who’s there?” and knew that, musket in hand, he was awaiting her answer.
CHAPTER XVIII
HOME AGAIN
“Scotchie’s” warning growl turned to a joyful greeting as Faith spoke his name.
“Great Cæsar! Faith!” exclaimed her uncle, drawing her into the kitchen. “What on earth are you doing out-of-doors at this time of night?”