Obadiah's dimming eyes gazed at him steadily.
"I thought my vengeance would come—in time—to save her, Nat. But—it failed. I knew of one other way and when all seemed lost—I took it. I killed the old people—the murderers of her father—of my Jean! I knew that would destroy Strang's power—"
In a sudden spasm of strength he lifted his head. His voice came in a hoarse, excited whisper.
"You won't tell Marion—you won't tell Marion that I killed them—"
"No—never."
Obadiah fell back with a relieved sigh. After a moment he added.
"In a chest in the cabin there is a letter for Marion. It tells her about her mother—and the gold there—is for her—and Neil—"
His eyes closed. A shudder passed through his form.
"Marion—" he breathed. "Marion!"
Nathaniel rose to his feet and ran to the cabin door.