Monteith Sterry moved away from the area of illumination as he spoke, Vesey keeping close to his side.
"Is it understood, Duke," asked the younger, "there's a truce between you and me?"
"Of course; if you know anything about Duke Vesey, you know he's square. If they happen to be some of our boys, I won't take any advantage of you, nor let them, if I can help it."
"And if they are Capt. Asbury and others, I will reciprocate."
Enough was said. Enemies though the men were, no bosom friends could have been more in unison for the time. Ready to shoot each other on sight less than an hour before, and as they were liable to be within the following hour, they were equally ready to risk their lives, if necessary, to carry out the pledge just exchanged.
They had to ride but a short way when the gloom became deep enough to protect them against the sight of the horsemen who were approaching from the opposite direction.
Six men rode into view, halting on the spot vacated by the couple just before, the one at the head being recognized in the glow of the burning ruins as Capt. Asbury, with whom the affray had taken place a short time previous. Sterry knew each, as did his companion.
"All the party do not seem to be there," remarked Sterry.
"They are not," replied Vesey; "three are missing."
"I wonder if anything can have happened to them?"