For some hours all was blank to the brave young fellow, and then he seemed to struggle back into half-consciousness sufficient to enable him to drink from a glass held to his lips, and then once more all was blank for many hours.
When Bart awoke from the long sleep, it was to find Maude seated by his bedside looking very anxious and pale; and as soon as she saw his eyes open, she rose and glided from the room, when in a few minutes the governor and a tall quiet-looking fair-haired man, whom Bart had never before seen, entered the apartment.
“Ah! my young friend,” exclaimed the governor, “how are you now?”
“Did you get the letter?” cried Bart excitedly.
“Yes; and I have given orders for a strong relief party to be mustered ready for going to our friend’s help,” replied the governor, “but we must get you strong first.”
“I am strong enough, sir,” cried Bart, sitting up. “I will guide them to the place. We must start at once.”
“Really, my young friend,” said the governor, “I don’t think you could manage to sit a horse just yet.”
“Indeed I can, sir,” cried Bart. “I was only tired out, and hungry and sleepy. The Apachés have been hard upon my trail ever since I started a week—ten days—I’m afraid I don’t know how many days ago.”
“Here! you must not get excited,” said the tall pale man, taking Bart’s hand and feeling his pulse, and then laying his hand upon his forehead.
“Are you a doctor?” said Bart eagerly.