But Katrina had gained a good start, and had scarcely entered the real gloom of the wood when her lover was beside her, holding her hand, and they fled with all the speed at their command.
A few sharp turns, and they got beyond all danger; but the Comanche who had played the part of bruin, followed so hard after Crockett that he could not elude him.
"Wal, if I must, I must!" muttered the Tennesseean, drawing his fearful Bowie and turning upon the red-skin.
The contest was over in a second almost. As the Indian sunk before the fearful knife, Crockett was just in time to turn and elude the others, who were coming up with much rapidity.
He had a hard time of it, and but for the shelter of the wood, would not have succeeded in getting away; but he soon ceased from his great exertions, and after an hour's cautious signaling managed to rejoin the lovers, remarking, as he related his experience:
"Somehow or other I sorter feel this is the last b'ar-hunt I'll ever take a hand in!"
They endeavored to laugh at his depression, and he purposely changed the conversation, as he wished to cast no gloom over their happiness.
It was now deemed best to approach as near Brownston as possible, so as to be ready to enter the village, if it could be done, early in the morning.
They accordingly resumed their cautious way through the woods, but had not gone far when they heard approaching footsteps.
The whites instantly halted, and the two men grasped their rifles, ready for friend or foe.