After which three cheers were given for the host and hostess, who had afforded them an opportunity of spending so enjoyable an evening.
They were all seated in the sleighs and about to drive off in various directions, when Mrs. Wright called for Abbie.
"Is Abbie with you, Mrs. Olmstead?" said the Chief.
"Is she with you, Mrs. Chamberlain?"
"No, no; she is not here," cried a dozen voices.
The anxious father called, "Halt! halt! We must not leave till we can find Abbie."
"Wait a moment," said Bearie. "It has just occurred to me that Abbie left us about ten minutes ago, remarking that she had lost her muff, and was going to search for it at the foot of the hill."
They called and searched in vain, and suddenly the Chief said:
"Where is Machecawa?"
"He left some time ago on snow-shoes," said one of the party.