“Only that he terrified her with his threats and then went on toward the house, which he left in flames.”
“My God, Cameron!” said the Superintendent, rising in his excitement. “This is really terrible. You must have suffered awful anxiety. I apologize for my abrupt manner a moment ago,” he added, offering his hand. “I'm awfully sorry.”
“It's all right, Superintendent,” replied Cameron. “I'm afraid I am a little upset myself.”
“But what a God's mercy she escaped! How came that, I wonder?”
Then Cameron told the story of the rescue of the Indian boy.
“That undoubtedly explains it,” exclaimed the Superintendent. “That was a most fortunate affair. Do an Indian a good turn and he will never forget it. I shudder to think of what might have happened, for I assure you that this Copperhead will stick at nothing. We have an unusually able man to deal with, and we shall put our whole Force on this business of arresting this man. Have you any suggestions yourself?”
“No,” said Cameron, “except that it would appear to be a mistake to give any sign that we were very specially anxious to get him just now. So far we have not shown our hand. Any concentrating of the Force upon his capture would only arouse suspicion and defeat our aim, while my going after him, no matter how keenly, will be accounted for on personal grounds.”
“There is something in that, but do you think you can get him?”
“I am going to get him,” said Cameron quietly.
The superintendent glanced at his face.