But it was the presence of Jennie that caused the most misgiving. True, she was as swift and skilful a skater as either, but that of itself was not likely to save her.
But she was the coolest of all, now that the danger assumed a reality.
The lightness and gayety that had marked the three from the moment of leaving home had gone. They were thoughtful, the very opposite in their mood to that of a few minutes before.
"I wish I had brought my pistol," said Fred.
"I have mine," observed Monteith; "a good Smith & Wesson, and each of the five chambers is loaded."
"Thank fortune for that; have you any extra cartridges?"
"Not one."
"Your pistol may be the means of saving us."
"Why do you speak that way?" asked Jennie; "I never knew you were scared so easily."
"I am sorry you are with us, sister; my alarm is on your account."