Such were the thoughts that passed through my mind.
Again that war-whoop sounded through the night air. “Hurrah!” cried Pat, “those are friendly Indians. I know it by the sound.”
Pat’s assertion was corroborated by several of the other men. Our well-nigh exhausted strength and courage were restored.
The Indians had heard these cries, and the formidable party which had been mounting the fagots hurried back, while the last who had been seen approaching retreated. We plied them more rapidly than ever with our musketry. We could hear their chiefs issuing their orders, and in another minute the whole line scampered off and disappeared in the darkness.
Not many minutes afterwards we heard Sandy’s voice shouting out, “We have brought some Indian friends to your assistance.”
We now, without hesitation, threw open the gate, and the next instant Robin sprang forward and shook our hands, while Sandy with his six men appeared directly afterwards.
“No time to stop,” exclaimed Sandy. “The youngster found us, and we fell in with some friends in time of need, who agreed to come along with us. There they are; but they’re afraid to come near, lest you should mistake them for the foe, and pepper them. They and we must be after the rascals who have been attacking you. Can’t stop to ask questions; only hope you are all safe. Keep Robin fast, or he’ll be running after us, and there is no need to let the lad run his nose into unnecessary danger. I hope you are all right, though?”
“Yes, thank you; none of us hurt badly,” answered Alick.
“That’s well,” exclaimed Sandy; and without more ado he and his men hurried after the Indians, who were already cautiously moving on in the direction our late assailants had taken.
“Don’t pursue them too far, or you may fall in with fresh bands, and may have a hard matter to fight your way back,” shouted Alick.