Smith suddenly caught the Irishman's shoulder as with a grip of iron, and without whispering a word pointed meaningly toward the trees where he had first seen the alarming manifestation. There was no mistaking this time. Pat Mulroony saw a bright light shining steadily through the trees, so brightly and steadily that he knew it could not be many rods from them. Withdrawing more closely under the dark shadow of their own tree, Pat whispered:
"We must craap up and see what the haythens are doing."
"I say, Pat, I say—that is—you've no objection to go alone, have you?"
"Why can't yees go with me?"
"I can, of course I can, but then what's the use? I'll stay here, and keep watch."
"And what's the naad of your kaaping watch at this poortion?"
"You know some of the Indians might slip onto the island while we are gone, or," added Hezekiah, catching at the thought, "these same Indians might try to slip off. Jerusalem! that wouldn't do, you know."
"Doesn't yees wish to go with me?" persisted Pat.
"I would prefer remaining here, my dear Patrick."
"Well, then, kaap quiet and sthill like, and I'll soon be back wid yees. Don't stir if you hear a noise."