“Goes with me, of course. And Mrs. Judge Pennoyer.”
“A most estimable lady. I knew her as a girl.”
“We thought of returning on your special.”
“An excellent idea. Particularly as I have an idea Mr. Bruce may pass us on Number Two. But stop—we have unluckily only one mule-team.”
“Is there no room?” I asked. For I, myself, was beginning to see the necessity of getting away—to White Sulphur or to Salem.
“Room enough—but you must remember we have nigh twenty miles through the woods. These gentlemen—” and the General waved his hand at the surrounding moonshiners—“will naturally take a few shots at us.”
We looked at one another in perplexity. The colloquy was interrupted by the appearance of Jeanie and May, in travelling dress again, but looking very charming, and Mrs. Judge Pennoyer. To her the situation was rapidly explained.
I have before remarked that Mrs. Pennoyer was a true sport. She rose immediately to the occasion, and desired to be introduced to King Kelly.
“Colonel Kelly,” said she, “these young ladies are travelling under my protection. One of them is engaged to be married to Mr. Raoul, and they are desirous of going to White Sulphur on their wedding journey. As there is only one wagon they must return with General McBride’s party. I trust the journey will be perfectly safe.”
Kelly scratched his head. “I can answer, of course, for these gentlemen here,” said he, “but some of my friends are out’n the mountain, and it may be difficult to notify them of the sitooation. Let me see your team,” he added, as if a bright idea struck him.