"Yes," said Craig, "we know."
"We've been to your place. It is all right there with one exception."
"One exception?"
"Yes; it's only the kid—Mr. Cooper's little daughter, you know."
"Is she dead?" cried Archie aghast.
"No, sir; that is, it isn't likely. Mr. Cooper's black girl left last night, and took the child."
"Good heavens! our little Diana! Poor Bob! He will go raving mad!"
"He is mad, sir, or all but, already; but we've left some fellows to defend the station, and taken to the trail as you see."
"Craig," said Archie, "we must go, too."
"Well," said the first speaker, "the coast is all clear betwixt here and Burley. Two must return there with the ladies. I advise you to make your choice, and lose no time."