"It would not have sustained me were it not. There is one thing that must be borne in mind," added Fred, speaking to all, "and that is, that no matter what happens, no noise must be made. The least exclamation will be heard by the Indians, some of whom are probably still at the upper end of the path, and if they suspect what is going on, failure is certain."
All were so desirous of leaving the place without delay that the directions of Fred seemed almost superfluous.
When the young man was about to lower himself by the vine, Brainerd touched his arm and said:
"My recollection of that ravine below is that there is no way out of it; why not, therefore, climb upward instead of going down?"
"It won't do; the only ones in this party beside myself who could reach the top in that fashion are Maggie and Eva. With your age, you couldn't draw yourself half-way up, even with help."
As silently as a shadow, the young patriot drew in the crooked vine which still dangled in front of the opening, and, flinging his gun back of his shoulder, where it was held in place, he grasped the support. The next minute those standing in the gloom behind him observed the dark figure, with legs drawn up, slowly descending, as if he were going down a well.
CHAPTER XXVI.
The suspense was painful; not a whisper was exchanged, and the ear was strained to catch the sounds which they dreaded, and yet which seemed certain to come.
Even the youngest of the party could not understand why it was some of the Senecas could be so near, and fail to detect them.