"It is true that you are alone, Branch. Here are only two women to oppose you, and one of them is entirely helpless! And yet you fear!"
These words were scarcely spoken, when there was a rustling among the brush, and a dark form appeared.
"No, I am not alone," replied Branch. "Look!"
At that instant six of the frightened horsemen, who were riding for their lives, came flashing up, and, reaching the cart, they halted. The dark form which had so suddenly appeared, had as suddenly vanished. It had been distinctly seen by Alibamo, although not by Branch.
As the party rode up, one of them said:
"Why, Branch, what are you doing with these beauties? And one of them unconscious, too."
"Taking them to a place of safety," was the crusty reply.
"You had better take them back to Springfield. The federals will not harm females."
"No—no! that is not my purpose. They are relatives of Union officers, and I intend to keep them as hostages for the safety of our friends."