Town. conducted Clara to the cabin of her father, while Old Tumult explained to the settlers why Mahaska and his warriors were there.
The joy of Mr. and Mrs. Bryant was exceedingly great, when their only child was once more restored to their hearts. And the settlers all partook of their joy.
After the excitement of the happy meeting was over, and Clara and her mother found themselves alone, the former drew near the latter and said:
“Mother, am I your child?”
Mrs. Bryant started.
“Why, Clara, you surprise me!” she exclaimed.
“I see I do, mother,” replied Clara, “but Dick Sherwood told me that I was not your child.”
Mrs. Bryant turned very pale, and Clara saw at once that she was greatly agitated.
“Is it true, mother?” she asked, her arms stealing softly around the matron’s neck.
“It is, it is, Clara! alas, it is too true; but how could that villain, Dick Sherwood, ever have gained the truth? What did he say about it, Clara?”