The persons in waiting needed no second bidding, but hastily scrambled into the vehicle. With a bound, like that of a panther, the scout followed them.
“Are yer shootin’-irons all right?” he asked, hurriedly.
An answer was given in the affirmative.
“Then drive ahead, for the cut-throats are close to us,” he commanded.
The horses sprung lightly forward under the direction of Alfred, who held the reins.
CHAPTER V.
THE WAGON TUSSLE AND THE TRAIL HUNTERS.
A road had been cut from the settlement of the Markley family to a point, several miles distant, where it intersected a regularly beaten wagon trail, leading to the nearest trading-post. After leaving the cabin, it led through the depths of the wood for some two miles, beyond which point the way was more open.
The parties who were unacquainted with the details of the massacre now turned to the scout, and, in answer to their questions, David related the scene as it had transpired. He spoke more especially of Emily, and the compact entered into between himself and Charles. Neither of the parents spoke, for the danger to which their son and the brave scout were about to subject themselves, seemed stupendous in their eyes, but they shuddered when Alfred chimed in:
“Count me in for that expedition, Charley; I’m with you there.”