"Where is she?" he demanded. "Why don't you speak?"
"W-what do you mean?" the woman replied. She felt there must be some reason for Grey's excited manner. It disconcerted her, leaving her much confused.
"I want to know what has become of Miss Normsell, who has been staying with you, and also the boy? Where are they? Do you know?"
"They went for a stroll to the river some time ago, and should be back by now. It's getting late."
"To the river? My God!" cried Grey. "Then it was Madeline! She's gone, and the boy, too! There's some foul plot."
Grey asked no more questions. He stared for an instant at Old Meg, then turned and left the building, leaving the woman gazing wonderingly after him.
CHAPTER XVI THE SIGNAL FIRE
Grey walked rapidly toward Dan's cabin. His mind was wildly agitated, for his brief interview with Old Meg had given him no satisfaction. In passing the store he was tempted to enter and seek an explanation from Siwash Bill. He banished this thought instantly, however. No, he would see Dan first, and find out what he had learned.