"They are here—close by us, Dan. We shall all be taken."
"There is no danger, Lily. We are perfectly safe. Be calm, my dear. You have been dreaming."
"No, I have not been dreaming. I haven't even been asleep. It was all real; but I have been a faithless sentinel."
"Now you are better, Lily, tell me all about it," continued Dan, seating her upon the cushions.
Lily related the incident which had transpired while her companions were asleep below; but Dan could hardly believe so strange a story, and insisted that she must have dropped asleep and dreamed it.
"I know I was not asleep."
"Why didn't you call me?"
"I was afraid that some noise might attract the attention of the slave-hunters, and I deferred it till I was sure they would discover us. Then I was creeping on the floor, so that they should not see me, to the cabin, when I fainted."
"Hossifus!" gasped Cyd, appalled at the narrow escape of the party.
"Don't you believe me, Dan? I am very sure I was not asleep," added Lily, earnestly.