“I’m not sure about that,” said Mabel quietly. “You see, I know Shirley a little better than you do. If there is one way by which she can reach safety, Shirley is sure to find it.”
“I do hope she will not be harmed,” said Lois, beginning to cry.
Refugees fled to the highlands in droves, leaving everything behind. Mr. Geddis and his party advanced, just on the edge of the high ground, down the valley. Here they came upon others who had been forced to flee for safety.
“How did the warning reach you?” asked Mr. Geddis of one of the men.
“Girl on horseback,” was the reply. “She came dashing down the road like wind. If it hadn’t been for her, hundreds would have perished.”
Mabel, who overheard this conversation, cried out in alarm:
“I don’t know,” was the reply. “She was headed straight for the village.”
Mabel seized Lois by the arm.
“Come,” she cried, “let’s go farther. Perhaps we can find Shirley.”