Now the man had started to get to his hands and knees. Elmer wondered what he meant to do, and the possibility of rank treachery, such as crazy persons are likely to display on the least occasion, filled him with dismay. He felt a queer thrill pass through his frame as the man arose stealthily.
Another minute would tell the tale, Elmer realized. Should the insane man start to approach their side of the now half-dying fire it was his intention to arouse his two companions with a shout, and spring to his own feet.
Earlier in the evening Elmer, looking ahead to possibilities, had managed to drop several billets of wood close to the spot where he and his mates expected to lie. These would come in handy as clubs in case there were actual hostilities, which he fervently hoped might not prove to be the case.
He afterwards declared that it seemed to him his heart jumped up in his throat when he saw the man actually take one step toward them. Fortunately Elmer controlled his feelings, and made no move to betray the fact that he was awake.
Relief swept over him upon discovering that the other had changed his mind, if he really intended doing anything serious; for once more he turned and crept away.
Elmer watched his receding figure as long as he could make it out. Then it became merged in the dim moonlight, and their unwelcome guest had gone!
Wee Willie, sound asleep, felt something grip him. He instantly started to sit up, though only half awake as yet.
“W-what’s doing?” he muttered, unable to grasp the situation.
“I only thought you’d like to know he’s gone,” said Elmer, quietly.
The other was by now fully aroused and seemed to understand what was meant.