The next day matters were talked over once more, and Dave told his uncle that nothing would satisfy him but to make the effort to reach the trading post and learn the truth concerning his parent.
“Well, I do not blame you, Dave,” answered his uncle. “But to get out there from here will be no easy matter, and to go alone or with only a handful of men would be folly. By this time Jean Bevoir has probably put the post in a good state of defense, and, since Jones escaped, he must be on constant guard.”
“I have a little plan to suggest, Uncle Joe. Why cannot we travel almost to the post and then go into quarters somewhere and send one or two men out in quiet? The men might go to the post, pretend to be friendly with Bevoir, and state that Peaceful Jones is dead, having been found so in the woods. Bevoir may then expose his plans and relax his vigilance, and we can watch our chances, rush in, and take possession.”
This plan appealed strongly to Henry, and even Mr. Morris nodded as if he approved. Still, there were many things to consider, the planter told his nephew, and he wanted a few days to deliberate. That night he talked it over in private with his wife.
“Dave wants to find out the truth about his father, Lucy,” said the planter. “I do not blame him, and I want to find out the truth myself, and see that justice is done. If he goes out to the trading post I feel it will be my duty to go with him.”
“But, Joseph, I do not wish to stay here alone!” cried Mrs. Morris. “Remember, I have not only Nell but the twins to take care of!”
“Henry will want to go with Dave, since they are like brothers,” continued Joseph Morris. “But Rodney can remain here, and so can some of the neighbors, if you wish it.”
“And would you go out there alone with the boys?”
“No! no! by no means! I should want to organize a regular expedition, and have the men sworn into regular army service at the fort. Then, when the time came, we could deal with Bevoir and his men in true military style.”
“You must have been doing a deal of thinking about this, Joseph?”