After giving the matter considerable thought, Dick decided to continue onward toward Ninety-Six. He believed that Ben would do the same, and he was eager to find Tom, and was somewhat anxious regarding his fate.
“Yes, I’ll go on in the direction of Ninety-Six,” murmured Dick. “Likely Ben will do so, and I will meet him again, and if not, I may find Tom.”
So Dick set out through the forest, heading toward the west. He walked steadily for two or three hours, and then, feeling tired, he lay down at the foot of a tree and was soon asleep.
When he awoke it was morning, he rose and looked about him. On all sides was the wilderness, the timber being all around him. Nowhere were there any signs of Indians.
“I wish I could find a settler’s home,” murmured Dick. “I am feeling the need of some food. Well, perhaps I may happen upon one, soon.”
Then he set out, still heading westward, and walked steadily onward an hour or so, when he came to a little cabin in an open space in the forest.
“Good,” thought Dick. “Now, I shall be able to get something to eat, likely.”
Dick advanced and knocked on the door, which was opened a few moments later by a tall, roughly-dressed man, who looked like a hunter and trapper.
“Good morning, sir,” greeted Dick. “I would like to get something to eat.”
“All right, stranger; come right in,” was the reply. “Ye are welcome to all the grub ye can eat, such as it is.”