“Oh, nothing; only I want to take a little run to ease my limbs.”
“Come back here instantly!”
“Yes—oh, father! quick! quick! come take me!”
“Seize the oar and shove out!” commanded Seth, springing into the water, and shoving the boat off.
“But, for God’s sake, my child!”
“You can’t help her—the Injins have got her. I see ’em; drop quick, they’re goin’ to fire! Look out!”
At that instant there was the sharp crack of several rifles from the shore, and several tongues of fire flamed from the darkness, and the wild yell of a number of Indians pealed out in horrid strength.
Had it not been for Seth all would have been lost. He comprehended every thing in an instant, and saved the others.
“Oh, father! mother! The Indians have got me!” came in agonized accents from the shore.
“Merciful God! must I see my child perish without heeding her cry?” groaned Haverland, in spirit.