But, when the storm cleared away, as it might do with great suddenness, they would be in great peril of observation, for, until they should reach the denser forest to the south, there would be many open spots to be crossed—open spots well within the range of a field-glass at the fort.
While Peter hitched up the growling dogs, Donald made the pack, and fastened it on the sledge. But, before they were ready to scatter the fire and plunge into the maelstrom of the storm, the Scotchman pulled the other's sleeve.
“What was that clew you had in regard to Jean Fitzpatrick?” he shouted above the wind.
“Friends told me, very quiet, that old Maria, who was at the fort the day before we arrived, and who tried to see the factor, had kidnaped her. But for what reason I have no idea. Maybe she's angry because old Fitzpatrick wouldn't see her, but the man who told me hinted at other things.”
“Was he an Indian?”
“Yes; it was Tee-ka-mee.”
“How did he know?”
“Butts tell him, he said. He and Butts good friends, because of working in the house together.”
“Why didn't they say as much when the search was being made? Then, they could have run this Indian hag to earth.”
“Like most English servants, that Butts was afraid to speak out, and Tee-ka-mee says the idea never occurred to him until too late.”