“And won’t he be glad when we gets t’ th’ Narrows!” exclaimed Andy.
“That he will!” said David. “’Twill be a fine surprise for he!”
The following morning, with light, expectant hearts, they set out for the Narrows, attending to their snow-clogged traps in the usual manner, and on Friday evening, highly excited at the expected surprise and pleasure of Indian Jake when they appeared, crossed the river ice opposite the tilt.
“He hasn’t come yet,” said David as they neared the tilt. “Th’ snow fell since he left Monday, and there’s no tracks where he’s come back.”
“We’ll have a fire, and supper cookin’ when he comes, an’ won’t he be surprised and glad t’ see us!” exclaimed Andy.
And so, their hearts filled with the pleasure they anticipated giving Indian Jake, they pushed open the door and entered the tilt. Then they stood aghast, and almost terror stricken.
The place gave unmistakable evidence of having been looted and abandoned. The furs were gone. The tent was not there, nor was the extra tent stove.
“He’s gone!” exclaimed Andy, presently, a frightened look on his face.
“Gone!” echoed David. “And he’s took all our furs!”
“What—will—Jamie do now?” and Andy was making a manly effort to restrain the tears.