"Yes; my poor nephew has fallen into the hands of these bloodthirsty Russians, who are resolved to execute him as a traitor and a spy."
CHAPTER VI.
MARIQUITA'S QUEST.
Hyde's unfortunate affair with the sailor had ended in a broken rib and a dislocated arm. He was taken back senseless to the camp of the Royal Picts, and for some days required the closest care. It was nearly a week before he so far recovered himself as to be able to give any account of what had occurred, and longer before he remembered accurately what was taking him to headquarters at the time of the accident.
It flashed across him quite suddenly, and with something of a shock, that while he lay there helpless his friend McKay was still in danger.
"When shall I be able to get about again?" he asked the doctor, anxiously.
"You won't be fit for duty, if that's what you're driving at, for many a long day to come."
"I can go about with my arm in a sling. I am beginning to feel perfectly well otherwise."