"That remains to be seen, Mr. Peter. If he, or anyone else on the plantation, is a traitor, he shall hang as high as Haman."
Peter cowered visibly, but smiled his agitation off.
And that same night about twelve, while Roland sat smoking on the lawn with Dick, all in the moonlight, everyone else having retired--smoking and talking of the happy past--suddenly the gate hinges creaked, and with a low growl Brawn sprang forward. But he returned almost immediately, wagging his tail and being caressed by Benee himself.
Silently stood the Indian before them, silently as a statue, but in his left hand he carried a small bundle bound up in grass. It was not his place to speak first, and both young men were a little startled at his sudden appearance.
"What, Benee! and back so soon from the forest?"
"Benee did run plenty quickee. Plenty jaguar want eat Benee, but no can catchee."
"Well?"
"I would speekee you bof boys in de room."
The two started up together.
Here was some mystery that must be unravelled.