What Judge’s do you mean, my good man? said Cora.
I mean Judge Hasbrook. They had a dance there last night, and the Admiral’s daughter got lost, strayed or stolen. All the people were looking for her, but she could not be found. Men on horses were sent out on every road. The marines were ordered from the ship to scour the woods, but it was no go. They could not find her. They said that she was a good, but dare-devil of a girl, and there was no telling what she might do. Some of the scouts returned and reported that about the middle of the afternoon, four men, with a black dog was seen about two miles from the Judge’s house, and they feared the girl had been stolen by them.
Amy could scarcely control her feelings on hearing this, but did not think it wise to state who she thought the party were.
The girls were now standing in front of the fire drying their clothes.
Girls, said Old Shell, you smoke like musk rats drying in the sun. I think you had better change your clothes.
I have no others, said Amy.
Nor I, rejoined Cora.
Be easy as two that, replied the old man. I have them, and think they will fit exactly. I have not always lived alone. I once had daughters that were as smooth-faced as you are, and as pretty as you appear. I have their clothes here, (pulling out a large chest.) See if these clothes will fit.
The girls, both from interest and curiosity, stepped toward the trunk.