"Well, my friends count up to a good number. I have not started on this errand without knowing what may be my support. Our friends are brave and strong, and having their promise to help, I could be confident. To say nothing of the remains of your father's company, Miss Maclan, there is one man, the leader of the trappers—"
"You mean Mr. Ridge," exclaimed Rosario, sharply.
"Yes; they call him the Yager of the Yellowstone. He's an American—"
"That's the one! If he is on your side, you need not much fear."
"So you know him?"
"So does Ulla there, from my talking to her about him as a devoted friend of my family. With that man on the lookout to save me, together with his companion, the Cherokee, Mr. Williams, I do look up again with the hope that I shall be rescued from this wretch, the Captain."
"Well, things stand thus. Before morning I expect to see Ridge, and to concert with him on hurrying on the time for the removal of all you ladies from this camp."
"Heaven hears you! I pray it will help you."
"It is possible we may find assistance among Kidd's men too."
"Have a care, sir! All I have seen are very hangdog fellows," and Ulla shuddered.