“But——”
“We shall wait,” she repeated resolutely, and taking a rifle from one of the sleds, she handed it to him.
“You may need it,” she said quietly. “And we have one left yet.”
He did not speak, but nodding his thanks, turned in the tracks, and proceeded up river once more. He went swiftly but cautiously; and after travelling half an hour, caught sight of a lumpy shadow coming down the river. Hastily he took refuge against the bank, and waited with his rifle ready. The shadow drew nearer, and then he perceived that it was made up of two men, one riding on the back of the other. At the same time he caught the sound of a protesting voice—
“It’s not worth while, old horse. Put me down and quit. They say——”
A moment later Roger Bracknell was running towards them.
“Dick! Dick!” he cried gladly.
“Where ... where ... are the girls ... Joy?” asked his cousin in a voice that sounded harsh.
“They are all right. They are well in front!”
“Good!” There was a note of relief in Dick Bracknell’s voice, as he spoke, then he gave a little laugh. “Behold the victors! Roger, my son, it was topping. We stood a charge and ... and cleared the board. It was gorgeous.”