The individual who was seen hastening across the clearing, showed in his actions that he was an acquaintance of Bungslager and his niece.
"Well, Sebastian, what is it?" asked the latter, while the quick flush that overspread her face told Colonel Crockett at once what relation existed between them. Even in that moment of excitement the young man had time to cast one admiring glance upon the maiden.
"I've bad news! the worst news!"
All turned away from the table and looked expectantly toward him.
"What is it?"
"Three runners reached Brownston, a couple of hours ago, with the news that a big war-party of Comanches are approaching!"
"Ish dat all?" exclaimed Hans, with a sigh. "I dinks my cow has tumbled over a log, and hurts herself."
"But they will be there by to-night."
"Does my frow know it?"
"Yes; she besought me to hurry to you, and urge you to come at once, without a moment's delay. As soon as I learned it, I prepared to come, although several urged me against it, as they thought I would be intercepted before I could get back; but I have made all haste."