"But, first, Claire," said her father soberly, "how does it happen you are here? We supposed you in the hands of 'Red' Fagin, and a squadron of my men are out now tracking the fellows."
"I was not in the house when they came, father; Peter and I were back of the stables, fortunately mounted. We were obliged to ride hard as we were chased several miles, and returned as soon as it appeared safe."
"And Eric?"
"He departed before Captain Grant arrived," she replied unhesitatingly, "and must be already safe within his own lines."
"It was Eric, then?"
"Who else could it be? Surely Captain Grant told you as much."
The Colonel's eyes wandered about the little group, and his doubt and bewilderment were clearly evident.
"Do you know Eric's purpose in coming here? in presuming to act as an officer in Delavan's company?"
"He did not inform me, sir."
"You know this man?"