In a moment they were in the river, with the water up to the horses' shoulders. They felt the carriage swing with the current, and felt the team struggling with the force of the waters. Then Esther called to the horses, in tones that showed no fear, "Well done, Rocket! On, Star, on!"
It seemed hours to her before the faithful animals were once more on the shore, and safe.
"Were you frightened, Miss Bright?" asked Edith.
"Just a little. I never forded a stream before. But how nobly the horses behaved!"
"Yes. It must be a hard struggle for them, though."
In about five minutes, they stopped before a house, tied their team, and knocked at the door. A refined-looking young woman received them.
"Why, Esther Bright!" she exclaimed, with a little shriek, clasping Esther in her arms.
"Why, Grace Gale! Bless your heart! Where in the world did you come from? Grace, this is my friend, Miss Edith Clayton. She is ill, and I am taking her to see Dr. Brown in Carlisle. We are seeking the hospitality of this house overnight."
Before she was through speaking, Grace Gale was half carrying Edith into the house.