By the closest inspection and minutest search Malachi and the Strawberry continued to follow the almost imperceptible track till they arrived at the bottom of the hill, about a hundred yards from where they started. It had become more difficult, as the print of Mary’s foot, which was more easily perceptible than the others, had served them for a few yards, after which it was no more to be distinguished, and it was evident that she had been lifted up from the ground. This satisfied them that she had been carried off.
When they arrived at the bottom of the hill they could clearly distinguish the print marks of mocassins, and by measuring very exactly the breadth and length of the impressions, made out that they were of two different people. These they continued to follow till they arrived at the forest, about a quarter of a mile from the swamp, when they heard the hallooing of Alfred and Martin, to which Malachi answered, and they soon joined him.
“What is it, Malachi?”
“She has been carried off, sir, I’ve no doubt,” replied Malachi, “by the Snake. The rascal is determined to have the vantage of us. We have one prisoner, and he has made two.”
Malachi then explained why he was certain that she had been carried away, and Martin agreed with him immediately.
Alfred then said—“Well, but now, before we act, let us consult what is best to be done.”
“Well, sir,” replied Malachi, “the best to do now, at this moment, is for the Strawberry and me to follow the trail, and try if we cannot obtain more information; and, when we have got all we can, we must form a party, and go in pursuit. Let us only get fairly on the trail, and we shall not lose it, especially if the Strawberry is with us, for she has a better eye than any Injun I ever knew, be it man or woman.”
“Well, that is all right, Malachi; but what shall I do now while you are following up the trail?”
“Well, sir, you must prepare the party, and get them all ready for a start; for we must be off in three hours, it possible.”
“Captain Sinclair had better come with us. He will be quite frantic if he does not,” said Alfred.