“Chief Watts’ Chickamaugas are very close,” warned the Jumper.
“Let them come,” was the careless reply. “We have not turned back, not so much as a foot.” And, shaking the reins, he rode down the trail with his guide at his stirrup.
CHAPTER VII
IN THE MAW OF THE FOREST
Once they struck into the old Creek trail the Jumper went on ahead; for this was a red path and the Indian by scouting in advance was supposed to reduce the chances of a surprise attack by Polcher. Near sundown they came to a small creek where the Jumper wanted to camp for the night.
“Let my brother gather wood for the fire while I look about the forest for signs,” said Sevier, eager to reconnoiter his back trail.
The man of the Deer clan guessed his purpose and reminded—
“If you are seen turning back, if only for a few steps, there are those who will be glad to kill you.”
“I shall not be seen turning back,” reassured Sevier. “I go to find signs and kill a wild turkey.”
“The forest has eyes that watch you,” warned the Jumper. “My medicine has told me that Death walks along the Creek trail.”