He laughed, and crossed to the priest, saying over his shoulder:––
“Mademoiselle is our new recruit. And the recruit must not complain of her food. I cannot allow it.”
The moments passed with no sign of action along the line of redskins on the path. They were quieter since the flanking party had started. To Menard it was evident that a plan had been settled upon. In a like position, a dozen Frenchmen would have stormed the hut, knowing that only two or three could fall before they were under the shelter of the walls; but even a large force of Indians was unwilling to take the chance.
“Father,” called the Captain, “it may be better for you to take the doorway. Mademoiselle and I will watch the forest.”
“Very well, M’sieu.”
The exchange was made rapidly.
“Will you look out at the sides, as well?” Menard said to her. “Keep moving about, and 224 using all the openings. There are too many chances for approach here.”
“If I see one, shall I shoot, M’sieu?”
He smiled. “You had better tell me first.”
She stepped briskly about, peering through the chinks with an alert eye. Menard found it hard to keep his own watch, so eager were his eyes to watch her. But he turned resolutely toward the woods.