When he saw he was seen, he beckoned for some one to come to him. Two or three of the soldiers started, but he peremptorily waved them back. Lawrence then started, and the old man stood still.
"Don't go, Captain," cried the men. "It may be a trap."
"I will be careful," replied Lawrence. "Shoot at the first sign of treachery."
A dozen carbines covered the old man, but he did not seem to notice it. When Lawrence was within about fifty yards of him, he motioned for him to stop; then, in a high, cracked voice, exclaimed: "There is danger ahead."
"I know it," replied Lawrence.
"A little ahead, close to that large tree, you will find a faint trail. Take it. It will lead you over the mountain into another valley, where you can go on your way in safety. Delay twenty minutes, and all will be lost. Farewell."
The old man stepped from the rock and disappeared. Lawrence rushed to where he had been standing. Nothing was to be seen. It was as if the earth had swallowed him.
He returned and told what had happened, and the wonderment was great.
"No time to lose," exclaimed Lawrence. "I shall take his advice."
In single file, the men turned into the trail. The way was steep, but not impassable, and soon the forest swallowed them up.