“That was a narrow escape,” was Washington’s comment, with something of a shudder.
“Indeed it was, sir.”
“You did me a great service, David, and one I shall not forget, I promise you.”
“It’s lucky I had the chain and pole. I don’t suppose you could have held on to those rocks much longer.”
“You are right, lad.”
In a little while the surveying proceeded, and soon both were as hard at work as ever. But for the remainder of the day Washington was in a thoughtful mood and spoke but little.
Winter was coming, and on the day following a light flurry of snow told the surveyor that he must hurry with his work or it would remain unfinished that season.
“There is no use of our being caught in the mountains and snowed in,” he said. “Besides, it would not do for me. My brother, Mr. Lawrence Washington, is far from well, and I am anxious to be near him should he grow worse.”
“Why, I heard he was going out hunting with Lord Fairfax,” said Dave.
“He thought of going, but I doubt if he will.”