“But the attack on the fort at the Fork was no trick,” answered Joseph Morris. “Do you know what I think you had best do? Show this to Colonel Washington.”
“I was thinking of that. Where can I find him?”
“Here he comes now.”
Joseph Morris pointed down the road whence Washington was approaching on horseback, followed by a slave who had come along as his personal attendant. At once Dave ran forward to meet the young commander.
“Ah, Master David, is it you?” said Washington, drawing rein. “How have you been since you helped me at surveying?”
“I have been well, sir, thank you,” answered the youth. “I am glad to see you are in command,” he added, with an honest smile.
“Are you?” Washington smiled in return. “Perhaps you would like to join our ranks. If so, let me say there is plenty of room.”
“I may join before long, sir. But I would like to ask your advice about something, if you can spare me a few minutes.”
“Certainly, David. What is it?”
“Here is a notice which was sent to my father at his trading-post. He does not know if it is genuine or the work of a French rival named Jean Bevoir. He sent me eastward to consult the authorities about it.” And as Dave handed over the notice and the translation he gave a few more of the particulars.