Nell was roused from her first nap by a loud knocking on the outer door, and a familiar voice calling, "Major!"
She sprang to the window and opened it.
"What is it, doctor?" she asked, her voice trembling a little with excitement and alarm in spite of herself.
"I am very sorry to disturb you," he answered, something in his low, earnest tones sending a strange thrill through her whole being, "but there is not an instant to be lost. Dear Miss Nell, rouse the household and dress yourself with all haste, not forgetting a shawl and bonnet, for the night air is chill in—"
The door opened at that moment and the major's voice was heard.
"What's wrong? Ah, is it you, doctor?"
"Yes, major, Wawillaway lies dead out yonder on the trail to Old Town, slain treacherously in cold blood, by that scoundrel Wolf, and of course we may expect an attack from the Indians as soon as they can get here after the news reaches them. It has been decided that the women and children shall be collected in Ferguson's house; that being the largest in town. Can I be of any assistance in getting yours there?"
"No, no, thank you. I'll have them there directly, and you will be wanting to warn others."
The doctor rode rapidly away, while the major shut the door and called to his wife and children.
"Up! dress yourself as fast as you can! Nell!"