“But the Indians are not likely to come this way,” I said. “It is too far from the forest.”

“Then the more likely, my lad. But speak lower. Now look straight out there, and try if you can see anything.”

I looked out in the gloom in the direction indicated, and said softly—

“Yes, I am looking.”

“Well, what can you see?”

“A house.”

“Yes, that’s right; just dimly showing against the sky.”

“Well, what of it? It is Colonel Preston’s.”

“I didn’t know for certain, but I thought it was his. Well, look again; can you see anything about it?”

I looked, making a telescope of my hands, and then laughed to myself.