Published Semi-Monthly.

Frank Starrs EN CENT Vol. XVI—No. 202,
\ Af

SMOOTH FACE, THE SCOUT.
A STORY OF EARLY or

FRANK STARR & CO., 41 PLATT
The Albany News Oo., Albany, “’. Y.

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THE

SOG TS yaw

A STORY OF EARLY OHIO.-:

BY JAMES L. BOWEN.

AUTHOR OF “FRONTIER SCOUTS,” “ SCOUTING DAVE,” “YANKEE SCOUT,’ ETC, ETO

NEW YORK:
THE AMERICAN NEWS CO., PUBLISHERS’ AGENT
NO. 121 NASSAU STREET,

’
   

Entered according to Act of Congress, in the
year 1866, bv Srvc: arr Tovsny, Publishers’ Agent, in the Clerk’s Office of the District
Courv of the United States for the Southern District of New York.

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tanned

THE

CHAPTER TI.
Ned. Wentworth.

Tue history of our national growth and
progress, is unlike that of any other people
on the face of the earth. Two? and’ a half
centuries have passed’ since’ the first perma-
nent scftlément was éstablished upon these
shores. For two' hundred and fifty years
the wave of civilization has’ beén’ spreading
ahd widening on its course toward the oc
cident. And at every step of its progress,
from the Atlantic to the Pacific, the sullen
red-man has doggedly contestéd the advance:
Utter and constant defeat—the annihilation
of entire tribes—the gradual extinetion of his
raice—all thesé have not sufficed to break
the haughty spirit which clings to every acre
of the ground, and only retreats when driven
away, Or wheli his bones have been buried
iv the soil hé would not relinquish. Treach-
ery, cunning ‘and crue’ y have been his wea-
pons—perceful  settlénrenfs ravaged and
burned—-women anid children massacred—
old men and maidens made the victims of
infernal tortures; such were the scenes to
Whicli the otitposfs of the grand advancing
civilization miist become accustomed.

The Vigilaiice, Courage and hardihood
necessaty to compete witli these wild deti-
zens of the forest, called into existence a
race of men distinctively American ; stich a
class of men as the world had scarce
dreamed of. Not alond the prominent few
whose deeds have been communicated to
tle world in the records of history, bat a
hundred thousand more, of lesser note, per:
haps, yet’ equally brave and daring, whose
histories never ¢ah be written.

Tt was a fine, autumnal day, near the
commencement of the present century. Not
a Cloud spéecked the broad blue arch, and

 

the descending sun fingered upon the tree-

 

SCOUTS: VOW.

tops of Ohio's mighty forests, as' if loth to
withdraw his light from: such: a delightful
scene: Summer had: passed, though the
leaves had not yet taken on the empurpled
hues’ which: presaged their fall  A-gentle
breeze'nestled through the wood; and with
its gentle music, murmured as though from
a thousand Alolian' harps, came the songs of
myriad birds.

It was a beautiful scene, such as nature
rarely presents, And so felt two persons,
with whom this narrative will have much
to do, as they stood upow the borders of a
little settlement, which had been ereated
away in the forest-lands of Ohio. There
were « half-dozen houses, scattered. over: as.
niiny acres, with a stronger and larger
building in the center, which had been
erected as a block-house. The buildings
were of logs, though more recently a mill
had been erected upon the stream which
flowed through the place, dnd was now
doing its best: to supply a more convenient
building material.

The twain of whom we spoke as viewing
the noble scenery about. them consisted of a
young man, and a still younger woman, The
former was a tall, finely-built fellow, and
despite the rough hunter’s garb in which he
wis clud, had the appearance of one men-
ally above the average of pioneers. His
features were regular and even handsome,
set off to good advantage by the waving
masses of brown hair which clustered about
his temples, and swept low upon his neck,
His hazel eyes shone with a clear. intelli-
gence, and bespoke a noble, generous soul
which looked forth from their portals.

And yet, this was Ned Wentworth, one
of the most daring scouts thit ever entered
the lists with the savages. Although he
had scarcely seen twenty-five years, his
fame was proverbial through the settlements

 
 

 

 

Gy THE SCOUT’S VOW.

and his deeds of daring were themes of or-
dinary conversation. He was nota resident
of the settlement where we behold him, but
if we glance at the companion who stood at
his side, with one hand resting tenderly
upon his muscular arm, it will not be diffi-
cult to imagine the errand which had called
him here.

Clara Brown was his companion’s name.
She was slight in figure, with golden hair
and sunny blue eyes which looked up at
the tall young scout with an expression not
to be mistaken. They were lovers; and
Ned had crossed miles of forest upon this
pleasant day, to spend a few hours with the
one who had enchained his affections.

Clara was the daughter of Caleb Brown,
a gallant pioneer—one of the first to settle
the place, and in honor of whom it had been
named—Brownsyville. Clara was a beauty,
past all mistake, and the few young men who
inhabited or visited Brownsville cast many
an earnest glance toward her. But she was
no coquette. Her heart had been given,
and her hand pledged to Ned Wentworth.
She would not cause him one momentary
pain or doubt by any frivolous flirtations.
Indeed, flirtations were not so popular at
that dey as now. Whether the world is
advancing in “ refinement,” and this is one
of the indications thereof, is immaterial.
Certainly the maidens at that time and in
such places made courtship and marriage
very matter-of-fact proceedings ; though we
do not learn that swains were less attentive
in those days, or 0 their love was less
sincere and ardent.

“ Tsn’t this splendid--delightfal Y Clara
asked, rapturously, after regarding the scene
attentively in silence,

“ Beautiful, indeed, Clara. I don’t know
how it may be, but it seems to me that no
other country in the world could equal our
own in the magnificence of its scenery.
Hear the breeze whispering through the oak
forest! How sweetly the rustling of the
leaves mingle with the songs of the birds!
I could live forever in such scenes, I do
think; but Iam not sure about living in
the busy world! I fear its joys would sati-
ate after a time!”

Strange words to be spoken by a scout
and Indian fighter! Yet the young man
was earnest and sineere. What matter if
the pronunciation of every word was not
perfect, and if he betrayed at times an ig-
norance of some improved rule in grammar?
His heart and soul were in the words, and

 

his only listener felt that she had never seen
him look so handsome as when he stond
thus, his fine head thrown back, and the
breeze playing with his clustering hair.

They talked for a little time upon such
topics as most naturally presented them-
selves, and then Ned pointed toward the
sinking sun,

“TJ must go, Clara,” he said, rather reluct-
antly. “It is some distance down to my
home, and it will soon be dark.”

The maiden glanced at the sun, and her
eyes lost a trifle of the joy which had so
lately danced in them, as she returned:

“T suppose I must not detain you, Ned,
for I know it is some distance—it would be
a long way for me. Oh, I do wish they
would not tell such constant stories about
the Indians coming! _ It makes me timorous,
while, at the same time, I don’t think I be-
lieve a word of it!”

“Then what makes you afraid ?”

“Why, I suppose I do partly believe
them. You know they have been preach-
ing to us that we should all be cut off, up
here in this exposed place; but I feel as
safe as I should anywhere—unless I—”

She blushed and stammered. Ned came
to her assistance, and finished the sentence
to his own satisfaction.

“Tf there is any place in the world where
you would feel safer than you do here, I
will make sure that you see that place be-
fore winter! You know, Clara, our wed-
ding-day is not far distant; so there will
not be many more partings, even if it be
only for a few days.” \

He pressed her hand fondly, bent over
and imprinted a kiss upon her soft cheek ;
then clutched his rifle firmly, and darted
into the glowing forest.

Scarcely had he disappeared from the
maiden’s sight, before his entire manner
changed. The light-hearted, eloquent lover
became the cautious, stealthy scout. He
glanced upon every side, and stole forward
rapidly, taking care to make as little noise
as possible.

“T wouldn’t tell Clara what I thought,”
he mused, in a half-audible tone. ‘“ But
there is no doubt the red-skins are lookin’
this way with longing eyes. They don’t
fancy being driven off in quiet, and they
have lain still so long I shouldn’t be at all
surprised. if they was makin’ up their minds
todo suthin’ big. I shouldn’t be at all sur-
prised to hear’em howlin’ through these
woods in less than a week. When they

eS RR ee
AN ADVENTURE

do come it will be with a rush, for they go
about things on the sly. But let them come,
here is one that’s ready for ’em !”

He passed his hand mechanically over the
pair of pistols in his belt, allowing it to rest
upon the knife-hilt which appeared on the
left side, just under the bullet-pouch. ‘They
were faithful weapons, every one, and with
the heavy rifle he carried, made the ath-
letic scout no trifling foe.

Tt seemed a weil-contested match between
the sinking sun and the traveler, as to which
should first reach his resting-place. Yet
with his utmost speed, the young scont saw
that the sun was declining from view, and
that the greater portion of his journey must
be made in the night. But he cared little
for this. The moon would guide him, and
he knew the route too well to have any
apprehensions. As the shades gathered
about him, Wentworth slackened his pace,
and evinced a disposition to be cautious.
He examined the priming of his weapons,
putting them in order for immediate use.
The operation was rather the result of hab-
itual cautiousness than any expectation thut
he should be called upon to use them. ; But
the frontier scout can never know what an
hour may bring forth.

Ned Wentworth was proceeding along
with his usual cautiousness, when he fan-
cied that he detected some sound in advance
of him. He paused, and threw himself up-
on the ground to listen. Scarcely had he
applied his ear to the earth, when he sprang
bolt upright, and hastened to the right as
fast as possible. He had discovered mn-
mistakable signs of Indians, not only near
at hand, but in large force!

- “ By heaven !” he thought, as he heard
the mingled foot-falls, “Clara was right:
there is danger for Brownsville. These
Savages are certainly heading that way—
they mean to fall upon it this very night!
But what does this mean ?”

The sounds of Indian footsteps seemed
nearer, and he bent low to listen. To his
dismay he found that they were hurrying
through the wood in every direction! They
evidently suspected the presence of some
enemy, and were spreading upon all sides to
intercept him. Of their numbers the young
scout could not judge. The forest seemed
swarming with them!

‘Ned began to moye back, for he did not
relish the presence of so numerous a fve.
The Indians were already upon either hand
of him, but he hoped by imitating their ac-

: ¢

 

IN THE FOREST. 9

| tions to pass for one of their number in the
darkness.

This he would no doubt have succeeded
in doing, as he had done upon many other
occasions, but for an unlucky accident.
His foot slipped into a hole, evidently the
burrow of’some smal] animal, and it was
only by a powerful effort that he succeeded
in recovering his balance. As it was, his
ankle was momentarily paralyzed by the
sudden strain, and he could only limp from
the place.

A tender-hearted savage noticed the
strange movement, and sprung to the spot
Instead of gazing into the face of a brother-
Indian, the red-man beheld the hated linea-
ments of a white! The half-formed ery in
his throat changed to a death-gasp as the
heavy rifle descended, with a desperate
force. The savage rolled gasping upon the
ground, and but for the unfortunate condi-
tion of his ankle, Ned would have had no
difficulty in making his escape.

He had scarcely hobbled a rod from the
spot, when the quivering body was discov-
ered. A shout was at once raised, and the
Indians rushed back and forth to discover
who had committed the daring act. For a
moment the white doubted how to proceed.
If he made a desperate resistance, he might,
and probably would, be killed outright. If
he submitted to his fate, he would stand
about an equal chance of being killed,
tortured to death, or of making his escape.

As the latter course would give him about
the only chance of waging further warfare
with the Indians, Ned at once made up his
mind to surrender. So he folded his arms
over his breast, resting upon his rifle, and
awaited the action of his natural enemies.

Nor had he long to wait. The Indians
approached him very carefully, rather ap-
prehensive of the stranger who stood so sto-
ically in their midst. Finding he was not
disposed to molest them, they seized him by
the arms, and removed his knife and_ rifle.
Having thus put it beyond his poiwer to in-
jure them seriously, the Indians began to
ask him questions, in their own incompre-
hensible jargon. Finding he did not or
would’ not understand them, search was
made for some one who could speak the
English tongue.

An interpreter was found, at length, and
he commenced :

“You kill Indian?” pointing to the de
funct brave.

* Yes

 
 

 

 

 

 

ee

 

 

«

"10 THE SCOUT’S VOW. >

“Why you do that ?”

“ Because he looked at me?

The savage steppedback, aghast. Prob-
‘ably he had never heard of an execution
ifor'so ‘trifling an offense, even among his
savage brethren.

“What you call?’ he finally demanded.

“You ought ‘to know me; my name. is
Ned Wentworth. I don’t brag any of what
Ican do, but you red-skins can take notice
‘from that feller!”

The Indian reported the name to the
/listeners,:as nearly as -his gutturals would

fanswer the purpose, and a commotion was

at once apparent. The name “ Smooth-
Face”: passed from lip: to; lip, and evgry one
‘pressed forward to obtain a view of the
noted warrior, who had for years been a
‘scourge to them in. their evil ways.

One of the warriors seemed to recognize
thim, for-he rushed forward, with a furious

jabber, swinging a hatchet aloft. He evi-
dently meant:to brain the prisoner, but .a
‘tall fellow, who seemed chief of the party,
“stayed ‘his uplifted arm, and gave orders to
bind: the white’s hands.

This done, the ugly-looking ,Indian  jab-
bered to his fellows fora moment, and then
they ‘resumed the:war-path. Ned could see
‘that they »were painted and arrayed in the
usual manner of their race;when. bent upon
the destruction of) the whites. - He was -sat-
isfied that they exceeded | fifty in. number,
vand,*from the general, direction, he knew
they would reach Brownsville in a short time.

'The*treacherous ankle did ;not trouble
‘him: now,and he walked between two of
‘his captors with ease, bodily, but with a

heavy pain weighing at his, heart. What
might:he not! be ealled wpon. to witness, or
rendure,: before the: sun would again come to
gladden the earth? » How many fond hearts,
that were now »pulsating» with love and
happiness, would then’ be ‘stilled forever ?
‘Relinquishing all selfish’ thoughts—where
now ‘was the maiden;he loyed—his. pro-
mised wife? If he ever saw her again,
might it not) be asa weltering corpse?
And yet, they might: very soon meet in the
‘realms above !

 

CHAPTER “IL
Gone!

‘As the ‘Indians rapidly neared Browns-
ville, the anguish of Ned Wentworth be-
came almost unbearable. Only one object

Brownsville !

 

filled his thoughts—but.one-vision .danced
hefore his .eyes— Clara! Oh, that he
could but whisper, one word of warning—
could but apprise the secure and probably
sleeping settlers of the sayages hastening
to revel.in the red carnival of their death!

At length the savages paused. Owing
to the darkness and the confusion of his
thoughts, Wentworth could net decide how
near they were to the settlement, but he
felt that it could not be far distant. A
short consultation took place among the
Indians, and then they glided off in the
darkness, leaving Ned with but two guards.

A host of impossibilities flashed through
the young man’s mind, as he beheld them
depart. .It would not be too late, even now,
to warn the settlers. Butt he.was a.close
prisoner, his hands were bound, and he
was unarmed. He could but watch, wait
and hope.

For.a long time, no sounds reached his
ears. Whatever the fiends were doing, it
was evidently being done in silence.

Suddenly, a bright glare rose above the
tree-tops. ,It,was.some burning building at
It seemed an age that it
continued, but the painful silence was bro-
ken at length. i

Shouts, yells, .rifle-shots—all the -signs
of close and deadly conflict, fell upon the
ears of the listeners. The Indians seemed
in the excitement to lose all regard for
their, charge. Contenting themselves by
keeping a hand; upon the, white’s. shoulder,
they gazed earnestly, at the light which rose
above the tree-tops, increasing in brilliancy
eyery, moment, and listening to the shots
and yells whieh proclaimed the continua-
tion of the conflict. i

The, present, was the moment for Ned.
He, could have, broken away from those who
held. him, and possibly have distanced them
in a,dead race. But he would have run
strong chances, of getting a bullet in the
back, which »would have been especially
obnoxious. , If, he coyld, by any, possibility,
get his hands free, he; would gladly risk all
on one grand stroke. Although the bonds
were quite tight, he felt that this would be
possible. The only. question was one of
time. ‘

He worked,and strained upon the, cords,
with the gratifying sensation. that they were
becoming looser! How his heart leaped at
the discovery! So intent was he upon ac-
complishing the object in view, that he at
tracted the attention of one of the guards,
“first ‘savage.
‘thing’ missed fire !

THE TWO ‘GUARDS. i

The fellow quickly ran his hand down to
‘the ligatures, shook his hatchet threatening-
‘ly, and resumed ‘his watching.

It would be necessary for the young man
to work with more catition, and he ‘soon
found that ‘the jealousy of his guards had
been ‘strongly awakened. Scareely a mo-
ment but one or both 6f them would ‘hold
his movements tnder ‘strict surveillance.
But when their eyes were ‘turned ‘in the di-
rection of the conflict in ‘front,!he worked
most energetically.

The sounds were dying out! The battle
was probably almost over; but ‘one hand
was free! ‘Disregarding the ‘cord which
was still tied to ‘the other, Ned passed his
hand carefully behind one of the guards,
and grasped his gun ‘by the ‘barrel. With
‘a powerful jerk, he relieved the ‘astonished

‘savage of his weapon, and seized it: by the

lock with his right ‘hand!
Before he could make any“use of his

‘captured Weapon, the two savages wheeled
“upon ‘him, the one leveling ‘his gun, | the
. other brandishing his “hatchet. ‘With’ the
“quickness of thought, Ned drew back the

hammer of the gun he held, and pulled'the
trigger, holding it full at tlie breast of the
To his ‘surprise, the faithless

Luckily they had been standing beside'a
large tree. Behind this’ the youth had’ the
presence of mind to bound. The Indian
with the ‘firelock' was ‘so intent “upon the
destruction of the white; that'he disregarded
the’ presence of’ the tree, anddis¢larged his
‘weapon ‘full into the’ trunk of'the’ venerable
buckeye! “While he was ‘waiting for’ the
smoke to clear away, never ‘doubting that
the ‘white ‘had ‘been blown ‘through “and
through by the fnrious cliarge, ‘he’ might
have’ béen slightly astonished by the descent
of the old musket, which had so lately ‘be-

‘longéd to! his companion, full upon “his de-
“voted’ cranium. “So furious*was the blow,

that not only was the Indian’s head demol-

“ished, but ‘the breech of the gun’ went fly-

ing away, leaving but the barrel in| the
hands of the young scout. “‘Witli'this alone

“he liad to contend with the remaining foe,

who rushed upon him with hatchet and
knife im either hand.

Nor did the contest promise ‘to’be ‘easily
‘decided. The’ Indian was’ cool and wary,
neither striking out with’ random’ blows, nor
rushing upon his’adversary with the blind
fury which had cost his companion’s life.

Finding he could ‘not draw-out the white

-items in themselves.

“possible.

 

 

so as ‘to *gain any advantage, «the savage

finally prepared to throw his hatchet. The

dim light which pervaded ithe place was

just sufficient to reveal the ‘movement tc

Ned, who dropped close to the earth, in .
time to: allow the missile free passage. With

aspringing motion, he aimed a hearty blow

at the Indian’s head. The latter caught it

upon his arm, which dropped to shis side,

broken by the stroke.

Ned saw the result of his blow, and
lowered his club, for he did not ‘feel like
taking the life of a disabled man, even -an
Indian. His humanity nearly cost his own
life. The savage saw the unguarded state
of his adversary,.and lunged forward with
his ‘knife. ‘By a lucky turn, the young
scout escaped it, the point barely pricking
his‘arm as-it passed. He had but to swing
over ‘the heavy gun-barrel upon the head

_|of the: brave, ‘and this he did not hesitate

to do.

Ned Wentworth was free, and his ‘two
guards disposed. of! Tworpretty important
He unwound .the cord
which was:still attached to his wrist, and,
after securing it about: his person for further
use, began to consider his situation.

A few shots stillysounded from. the: direc-
tion of the settlements, showing that all
was not yet peaceable. ‘Before venturing
inthe vicinity of deadly: combat, the scout
felt’ the necessity of! being iarmed:asiwellas
One of the guns he»had demol-
ished, ‘but ‘the ‘other seemed a tolerable
musket, ‘Though a! poor substitute for, the
fine rifle he had lost, Ned accepted sit, in
lieu of any thing~better, and proceeded :to
load it’ from’ the stores of the defunct~say-
age.

'The fellow’ carried a’ good supply of.am-
munition, which .Ned ‘confiscated, as -also

his belt, with knife:iand ‘hatchet attached.

These he buckled about him, and then ;he
‘set forth. ‘

What the state of saffairs: might be at the
settlement, or what dangers he might imeet
upon ‘the route, he :knew'not. » His: only
thought was of: Olara ‘Brown, and the kind-
hearted tumily with whom -he ‘had passed
so *muny “pleasant “hours. The light» still
shone over! the tree-topsy apparently quite
as brilliantly as before. ‘He determined to
strike to’ the left of the settlement, and ap-
proach’ it as occasion ‘presented.

He set out in the necessary direction, but
‘had not proceeded far before he: found the
forest-‘to be “swarming with savages, this

 

Lh ao hie 1 A * i a mallee
 

 

 

 

i

4

ae)
:

 

 

2 THE SCOUT’S VOW.

time on their way back. Fora moment
he felt like rejoicing aloud, for he reasoned
that such would be the case only after a
defeat. But then, how could the twelve or
fifteen men scattered over the settlement,
have successfully combated four times their
number, taken at a disadvantage as they
were ?

But he found little time now to argue the
question. It required all his abilities as a
scout to keep from the clutches of the red-
skins, who were hurrying along through the
forest in every direction. Fortunately for
himself, he escaped their notice, although
they passed on all sides.. The darkness was
certainly in his favor now.

Feeling pretty sure that they had all
passed, he started on again, and very soon
reached the clearing. Whatasight! Three
of the dwellings were in flames; and to add
to his dismay, he saw that one of them was
Caleb Brown’s !

“Oh! Clara—” he: exclaimed, ‘but was
cut short by the report of a rifle from the
forest behind him. At the same moment,
he felt ‘the clothing torn from his shoulder,
and a sharp sting announced that the ball
had grazed his flesh.

Quick as though the wound had been
mortal, he fell to the ground, and waited the
appearance of* the Indian. Nothing but
the most awkward marksman could have
missed the scout, who had thoughtlessly ex-
posed himself to the full glare of the burn-
ing buildings. So intent was he upon the
fite of her he loved, that he had never con-
sidered the possibility of lurking marksmen
in the wood behind him.

Soon a stealthy, cat-like step sounded in
the direction whence the shot had come, as
the savage crept along, intent upon securing
the scalp of his victim. The latter had
rolled himself upon his face, and with the
gun he held leveled toward the approaching
figure, waited for the moment when his aim
could be assisted by the conflagration,

The Indian came very stealthily, casting
frequent glances in the direction of the set-
tlement. He did not wish to expose his
dusky carcase to a shot from the block-house,
nor was he disposed to relinquish the sealp
which he supposed to be awaiting him,

He was slightly mistaken. Instead of a
acalp at his belt, he received a bullet through
the heart. Ned fired when the fellow was
scarce six yards away, and with two or three

— death-bounds, the warrior sunk down, al-

most face to face with his destroyer.

 

Wentworth was upon the point of leay-
ing the dead Indian, when his eye fell upon
the gun, which lay where the savage had
been struck. With a quick movement he
raised it by the barrel.

“ My own good old rifle !” he cried, with
enthusiasm. ‘“ You're welcome back again !
I didn’t look for such good fortune! Id
rather have this same old rifle than all the
muskets this side of the Ohio. Let me see
what else I can find !”

He drew the defunct savage upon his
back, and found two admirable pistols stuck
in the belt. His ammunition was there,
also. He appropriated all with a feeling
of entire satisfaction. He did not pause,
now, to load the rifle, for he would not de-
lay one moment longer than was necessary.

Ata quick pace he rushed toward the
burning building. The glaring firelight
made every thing plain as day. Upon the
ground -he saw evidences of the late fight
—several dead savages lying as they had
fallen. The light from the block-house
showed that those within were still keeping
eager watch for the return of the muraud-
ers. /

Passing near the house where Clara had
lived, ied saw. that it was completely
wrapped in flames, with no signs of any in-
mates. Of course they had fled to the
block-house, and thither he took his way.
When he had passed half the distance, a
wild figure broke from the doorway, and ad-
vanced to meet the scout.

He was a young man, several years
younger than the scout, and smaller in frame,
He advanced rapidly, grasping the scout’s
hand with nervous vigor.

“ By George, Ned, I’m glad you’ve come!”
he exclaimed, excitedly. “I know you can
help me, and you'll not call it foolishness
neither !”

“Ah, Warren, is it you?” returned Ned,
shaking the hand, warmly. ‘ Tell me, how
is Clara ?”

“ That's jest what I want your help, about.
She’s gone !”

“ Gone where ?”

“I don’t know—the Injins have took her
off !”

Fora moment neither spoke. Ned Went-
worth was almost overwhelmed by the un-
expected tidings. Oh ! the fearful thought !
Clara Brown in. the hands of the Indians!
His brain reeled, and he glared upon the
man, ber brother, who had brought the fatal
intelligence. Yet in a few moments he

s
A PERILOUS UNDERTAKING. 18

spoke, and his tone was perfectly calm.
He saw how much the brother was excited,
and he knew that his own coolness would be
indispensable.

“Pell me all about it, ‘Warren, ” he said.

“T have,” was the vague answer.

“But how did it happen? Where were
you when the fight commenced, and how
was it that they captured Clara? Tell me
that !”

“We’s jist talkin’ of goin’ to bed,” the
brother began, losing some of his excite-
ment on seeing how calm his companion
was. “The fust we knew, we seen a bright
light. Father looked out, and said Dun-
can’s house was afire. He hadn’t more’n
said so afore the alarm was given, and some-
body sung out, ‘Brown’s house, too.” By
this time we was out-doors. One of the
men sings out, ‘ This ain’t right—thar's In-
jins round! Father turns to me and says,
‘Take the women to the block-house’ I
went in and took my gun; father took his.
Then we started.

“ By this time, the Injins could see pretty
well, and they made a rush for the fort.
But they didn’t git in. They scooped up
three or four women, and made the best
of their way back into the woods. Course
we couldn’t follow in there, for there wa’n’t
but a handful of us, and they had it all their
own way soon as they got off into the
dark.

“ Father was wounded, and mother had
an arm broke; but they got into the block-
house, ‘and the rest of us went, too, soon as
we could; for there’s nothin’ we could do
outside. I tried to persuade somebody to
go with me and git Clara back, but they all
said I was foolish. Purty soon I seen you
comin’, and then I grabbed the old ee for
I kuew you would go!”

There was such an appealing 16s in the
eyes of the mourning brother, that Ned could
not have refused him, even if he had felt
no interest in the matter himself.

“Certainly, I will go with you, Warren,”
he returned. “But you must realize what
a perilous attempt it will be, before we can
hope to succeed. We shall be obliged to
do every thing by mere shrewdness. Force
we can not use, and the probabilities are
that we shall share her fate, or one infinitely
worse !” -

“T know that, Ned. But there have been
such things as rescuing captives, and what
has been done can be done again,”

“It may be done, Warren, or it may not.

 

 

 

But one thing is sure: we will make the
attempt to rescue Clara. If skill, patience
and endurance can effect it, she shall be
brought back. But we are only human,
and the shrewdest plot may fail. Thete
are at least twenty-five to one, and it be-
hooves us to be prepared for them, as far as
possible. What have you got in the way
of weapons ?”

“ This rifle !”

“What ammunition ?”

“ Not any !”

Warren Brown looked a little foolish, but
he knew the other too well to fear that he
would chide him.

“Have you pistols or knife ?”

“ Neither.”

“A good knife is of more real use on
such an expedition than all the fire-arms
you could carry. They are too noisy. We
will. go into the block-house, get a little
food, and put ourselyes in order for the
trail.”

He led the way, and soon found himself
amid the startled settlers. Nor were they
alarmed without cause. Two of their little
band had been slain outright, three or four
wounded, and as many carried off. All
were anxious to speak with the famed young
scout, to ask his opinion and advice. But
he was forced to put them off, unanswered.

He sought the couch where Mr. and Mrs.
Brown had been conveyed. They were suf-
fering bodily, but their greatest suffering
was for their daughter, and the inexperienced
son who had insisted upon taking the trail,
in hopes of recovering her.

Ned spoke far more cheeringly to them
than he had done to Warren; and when he
left, promising to bring back the lost child
if human power could do it, he bore the
earnest blessing of both parents upon his
efforts.

A few minutes later, he stood at the door
of the rude stronghold, with Warren Brown
beside him. The latter was calm now, and
they were prepared. as fully as human fore-
sight could suggest, for the dangerous mis.
sion.

CHAPTER TL
The Vow.

Tr would be difficult to realize a more un-
certain and perilous undertaking than that
upon which Ned Wentworth and Warren
Brown were about setting forth. A band

Date:

 
   
 

 

 

 

 

of savages,:probably from sixty to seventy
jn number, had descended upon the settle-
ment, burned one half of it, and carried off
certain captives. It was quite likely they
would lose no time in returning to their
own forest wilds, where the foot of white
man had scarcely yet penetrated.

To follow them, to keep a strict watch
of their movements, and rescue a designated
one from their clutches, and bring her back
to the settlements—this was the Herculean
task those two men had “imposed upon
themselves.

The clearing still was lighted by the
blaze of the burning dwellings, which. the
settlers made no attempt to extinguish.
They knew not how many lurking foes
might be concealed within rifle-shot, wait-
ing an opportunity to swell their list of
victims.

‘The two adventurers struck into the for-
est by the darkest possible. route, and
when they reached its shades they moved

vaway in the direction taken by the assail-
ants. Of course Ned knew the route very
well for the first-few miles, and before War-
ren suspected their nearness, the scout: drew
‘him back, with a gentle whisper of caution :

“ Listen !”

The novice did so, and.in a short time
heard the receding steps of the Indians

quite plainly.

“ Ts it. possible we are so near them ?” he
asked. ‘I didn’t suppose we should over-
‘take them before morning !”

“ So you see. you would: have run full
onto them,” said Ned, with a, pleasant. smile.
_“ There seems to be but a few of them here
in front of us. I've knowed the rascals to
‘split up into little bands, and spread all over
the woods. ['m afraid of it, this time.
That’ll be a wuss thing for us, ’cause we
shan’t know where to look for Clara, and
shall be im danger of running into a nest of
’em any time.”

“ What shall we do, in that case ?”

“Take matters jest as they come. If we
can’t find her with one band we must foller
up another. Thar’s no rules to be laid
down for Injin fightin’, cause it can’t be
done by rule. We have to take things jest

as they come, and make the best of ’em.”
The sounds of the savages had now ceas-
ed, and the darkness*was so profound thut
it was impossible to determine whether they
had really passed from hearing, or stopped
_ for a> rest.
latter opinion.

Ned was inclined toward the
He drew back a little dis-

 

THE SCOUT’S VOW.

tance, and took Warren’s hand with great
earnestness.

“ We can’t tell what may come,” he said,
seriously. “It is more than possible that
one or both of us may meet with accidents,
We may fall into the hands of the Injins,
be wounded or killed. But let come what
will, Warren, I never will leave ye in any
bad serape. That ain’t my way. Tl do
the best I can to git ye out of it, come what
will. And that ain’t all—I want you to
witness one thing.”

“ What is it, Ned ?”

“Tt is this,’ said the scout, baring his
head and reverently raising his right hand:
“ I call Heaven:to witness, that I will never
give over the pursuit of this. party till I have
freed Clara Brown from their power, or per-
ishedin the attempt! So muy God help me!”

‘CA pretty strong declaration, Ned !”

“No stronger than I mean. I do not
often stop half-way in any enceayors, mote
especially in one where my own interest is
so great. But see, Warren, there is a clue
to what we want-to-know !”

Warren looked in the direction indicated,
but his face wouid have been scen to wear
a puzzled expression, had the light been suffi-
cient to reveal it.

“ You know I’m a little green in wood-
craft, Ned!” he said, atter a moment.

“ So, you don’t understand what I mean !
Well, just look’ right here, and you see a
tree through yonder, a quarter of a mile
away, or more.”

“Yes, 1.see if”

“How can you see that particular tree,
and no other? You can’t even distinguish
a tree two rods from where you stand, in
any other direction.”

“There must be some light, I should
think—”

“ Yes, Warren, there zs a light, and .it is
the light of an Injin fire! They have stop-
ped there for some purpose, and we must:
lose no time in finding out what it is.
We will steal up that way as nearas would
be safe, then you can lay back while I go
up and peep into, them,”

They worked along very cautiously, and
in a short time were so near that the glow
of the fire could, be seen very distinctly.
The fire itself was evidently built in a re-
cess where its light could only shine up-
ward,

Charging his companion, who was to act
the part of a reserve, to be careful and not
attract the attention of the Indians, Went-

 

 
 

plished.
‘slightest disturbance would call upon ,him

THE TRYSTING-PLACE. 15

worth stole away upon his delicate. mission.
His object was not one to be easily accom-
The night was dark, and the

a kody of bloodthirsty foes.

,their late expedition.

‘but. no Warren appeared!

But these were trifles to the brave young
scout. He,possessed full confidence in his
own skill, and made his way, slowly but
silently, to the, opposite flank of the Indians.
The fire had been built bebind a small hill,
and from his present stand-point Ned could
see the savages squatted about it. He could
count seven or eight of the dusky forms,
but saw no signs of,any captive. To make
matters certain he worked his way nearer,
till he could have almost. touched the In-
dians. He then took a careful survey of
the scene.

The braves seemed well’ worn-out by
Most. of them. had
thrown themselyes upon the ground, and
seemed disposed to,.sleep. There was no
prisoner here/ He satisfied himself upon
that point, and then began to move away.

He had scarcely made a dozen move-
ments when a treacierous stick cracked be-
neath his tread! Up started the Indians,
and down dropped the white man. (Two
or three of the most jealous started in the
direction of the sound, peering through the
forest, and listening for a repetition.

At length they seemed satisfied that their
fancies had been at fault, and retired, after
one of them, had been so near the scout as
almost to tread upon, him.

The scout made,his way still more cau-
tiously back toward the place where he had
left Warren Brown. _He had noted the spot,
and felt, sure that he was within a few feet
of the trysting-place. But there were no
signs of his companion! Ned looked to
the right and left, moved, back and. forth,
Where. cculd
he be?

“ Warren ! , Warren !” he spoke, in. a low
voice.

There was no. verbal response, But a
sudden commotion in the direction, of the
Indian, camp aroused his fears. Could it
be that Warren had disregarded his orders,
and was about to pay the penalty of his
rashness by arousing the whole Indian

crew ?

He could not believe otherwise, for at

_that moment a savage whoop broke upon

the stillness of the forest! _ It lasted but a
moment, then all was still. No shots were
fired, and but for the absence of his friend

  

 

 

the scout would have been puzzled to com-
prehend the strange outbreak. Grasping
his rifle firmly, he darted off in the diréc-
tion of the sound.

By following the fortunes of the impul-
sive brother, we shall the sooner compre-
hend the situation.

Feeling no concern for the daring young
scout, whose skill was proverbial, Warren
remained for some time, reflecting upon the
strangeness of his situation. The events
of the past few hours had been so strange
and exciting that he could hardly believe
his own confused senses. His father and
mother both wounded, his sister carried off
to a fate worse than death, their house burn-
ed by savage incendiaries, every thing of
value in ashes, and himself far in the forest
in the endeavor to save the loved sister
from her cruel fate! Surely this was a
strange record for one brief night, whieh
had not yet flown! What might not be
added to it before the coming of the morn-
ing light ?

He was aroused from these reflections by
a rustling in the forest near him. At first
he supposed it to be Ned, returning from
his reconnoitering expedition. But he re-
flected that the scout would not come from
that direction. He crouched low, keeping
a hand upon his knife, in case of need. 1A
tall, dark figure was discernible, moving
quickly through the wood in the direction
of the light. It passed within a yard of
the concealed white, and he saw that it was
an Indian ! ;

Warren rose to his feet as the dark figure
passed, and his first impulse was to follow
it. This impulse he obeyed, gliding along
in the rear of the tall savage with a silenice
which would have done credit to a more
experienced trail-follower.

“Perhaps I hadn’t really ought to leave,”
he thought, and once he halted, half dispos-
ed to turn back. But he reasoned that *he
might discover something worth knowing,
and he proceeded to follow the strange In-
dian.

They were quite near the edge of the
little camp, and Warren had crept closer
than was prudent to the savage in front of
him. ‘The latter struck his foot against a
root or vine, and stumbled. -In recovering
himself he noticed his pursuer. For a mo-
ment they glared at each other through ‘the
darkness, and then the impetuous youth
aimed a furious blow at the heart of his dd-
versary, with his knife.
 

 

 

 

 

 

16 “THE SCOUT’S Vow.

The Indian was no ordinary foeman. He
warded off the stroke by a dextrous move-
ment, and grasped the youth by the arm.
A fierce struggle for the knife followed, in
which the savage had all the advantage ex-
cept that of possession. He was larger,
stronger, and more accustomed to such war-
fare than Warren. The noise of the strug-
gic brought, other savages to the scene, who,
with wild whoops, precipitated themselves
upon the defenseless youth.

Of course he was overpowered in a mo-
ment, his arms lashed, and he was taken
into the midst of the savage circle. Here
he was at full liberty to pick up the infor-
mation he had hoped for, but he gathered
no more than Ned had done a few minutes
previous... He was placed in the midst of
the Indians, the tall. savage, whom he had
fought, indicating by a grunt that the young
man was to be considered his especial pris-
onet. His limbs were accordingly tied to
asapling. In this not over comfortable
position he was left, while the sleepy sav-
ages gathered about the new-comer.

Whatever that personage might have to
communicate, it seemed to. give the sav-
ages the greatest satisfaction. They gave
vent to their feelings in several emphatic

grunts, and arranged a bed of dry leaves

and boughs for their distinguished guest.
Examining the thong which confined their
prisoner, the party threw themselves upon
the earth once more, and were soon asleep.
One of the number had been. detailed to
patrol the forest, and keep a vigilant watch
that no white approached, He obeyed with
evident reluctance, and Warren did not ap-
prehend much danger to, Ned from the
watch he would keep. That Wentworth
would make an effort to release him he had
no doubt. How he could enter the circle
of savages without disturbing some of them,
and thus defeating himself, remained to be
een.

An age seemed to have passed, and yet
no movement which could indicate deliver-
anee. Morning would. soon be at band.
Then it would be too late, for all signs
evinced that some movement on the part of
the savages would take place with the
coming light.

True, an Indian, closely enveloped in his
blanket, seemed to take a great interest in
watching the prisoner, raising his head every

five minutes, if not oftener, and giving him

a close scrutiny. Finally the restless sav-
age rose, with a grunt, and left the circle.

 

When he returned he came directly to the
prisoner, gave his bonds a pull, and having
grunted satisfaction at the result, threw him-
self upon the ground alongside Warren.

Hope died out in the captive’s heart at
this unexpected movement. How could
his friend assist him now? It was not to
be thought of; and with a despairing soul,
he assumed the easiest position possible, and
tried to resign himself to his fate

“ Warren |”

Just the faintest possible whisper sounded
in. his ear, and at the same moment his
hands were cut loose !

“Keep quiet; I'll tell you when !’ came
the same whisper again.

There could be no mistake—the jealons
Indian could be none other than Ned Went-
worth !

He waited—it seemed a long time in‘his
impatience—but finally the strange libera-
tor worked into position and cut the thongs
at the feet. Ned then arose to a sitting
posture, looked around, yawned heavily,
then settled back again,

“They are all asleep. Be very careful
to make no noise and follow me !”’

The blanket rose to its feet, and with a
trembling heart the late captive followed
suit. Fortunately, his feet had not been
confined so closely as to render them numb.
He followed in the footsteps of his guide
with all possible caution, and in a brief
moment was without the dusky circle.

Ned led the way to a large oak near by,
and from beside it he produced a gun,
which he handed to Warren.

“Take this,” he whispered. “ The red-
skiuy put yours where I couldn’t raise it
handy, and this will be better than no gun.
Here is a knife, too.”

“Where did you get these, and that
blanket ?” asked the youth, unable to re-
press his curiosity.

“Oh, I have a way of borrowing such
trinkets when an Injin gits through usin’
‘em. But come on, Walk light and be
spry.” \

They hastened away through the wood,
and were just beginning to breathe a little
more freely, when a hurry and bustle about
the little camp announced the discovery of
their flight. The darkness was both an
advantage and a disadvantage to the fugi-
tives. Their own movements were con-
‘cealed, so were those of their pursuers,

““Maybe they won’t come this way,” sug-
gested Ned, “but we will make the best

 

/
.
ee

THE DISGUISE SUSPECTED. 17

time we can, and give them plenty of
room !”

He took the other’s hand, and hastened
along as fast as the darkness would permit,
What might be before or around them they
knew not—there was danger behind, and
they wished it to remain there. Suddenly
a loud, peculiar yell rose from. those who
had*thus been detrauded of their prisoner.
It was echoed by many voices scarce a hun-
dred and fifty yards in front of them,

Even Ned Wentworth stopped and , bit
his lip. They were midway between three
fires. Savages to the right —savages in
front—savages to the left.

“We're in for a ventur’, now, and no
mistake,” he whispered, revolving in_ his
mind at the same time, how he should meet
the crisis. He had little time for reflection,
The Indians were closing in upon every
side—already he could. distinctly hear the
movements of the different bodies,

 

CHAPTER IY.
Vicissitudes.

Nep Wentworrn placed his arm upon
that of his companion, and bent his lips
near his ear.

“We must try another game,” he whis-
pered. “ We can’t run away from them—
we must fool them.” J

““Suy nothin’, he vursued, as the other
attempted to reply. ‘“ Here, mount upon
my shoulder; move carefully, and get into
that tree,” f

“And you—”

“Never mind me; I'll be Injin with the
rest. Keep quiet up there till 1 come back,
I'll throw ’em off the track in a few min-
utes.”

Warren paused; he did not like the idea
of leaving his companion to such an un-
certain fate.

“Td rather go with you,” he said, hesi-
tatingly.

“But you can’t—twould be death to
both of us!”

Nearer came the prowling Indians, scarce
fifty yards separating the foremost, from the
whites. No time wus to be lost. Ned had
erouched for the purpose, and the other
climbed upon his shoulders. They were
beneath a small tree, and when Wentworth
rose to his feet, Warren could reach the
lower limbs. He grasped them, and soon

 

en - —e

 

scrambled to a safe position among the
branches. Here there would be little dan-
ger of his being discovered, at least not till
daylight ; and he had all faith in the saga-
city of Ned, believing that he would come
to his relief before that time.

The latter, seeing his companion disap-
pear from sight, and making sure that no
scrutiny of the savages could discover him
in the darkness, attended to the metamore
phose which was necessary to carry out his
part of the plan.. He had retained the In-
dian blanket which had assisted him in
rescuing Warren, and he proposed that it
should assist him again,

Drawing it up, so as to cover his head,
and hide the absence of a scalp-lock, he
wound if, around his body, @ /a Indian, so
that even a savage might have passed the
mummy-like figure without suspecting it to
be a white. His feet had been suppliea
with moccasins, and the toes, were turned in,

By, this time, the two newly-aroused
camps of savages had united, and formed a
semicircle about the daring youth. | Grasp-
ing his gun awkwardly, the pseudo-Indian
commenced a zig-zag course, in the genera)
direction taken by those behind. Peering
at. every thing which had a suspicious as-
pect, he soon found himself in the midst of
the stealthy mass. Many of them were
wrapped in their blankets, and his scheme
seemed likely to succeed to a charm.

His object was to keep with the savages
tilh he could find out something of their
numbers, ascertain if they held any prison-
ers, and then allow them to proceed without
him. If he saw no captives, it would be
reasonable to infer that they were left in
camp. Should that be the case, his heart
glowed with the thought that in one hour
more he might clasp the rescued Clara to
his heart ! ‘

He slackened his pace, gradually, hoping
not to attract attention. A savage behind
gave him a decided push. He stepped
aside, thinking he might be in the Indian’s
way. The other followed, jerked him by
the shoulder, muttered a few words in the
Indian tongue, and then pushed him for
ward again,

The young scout pushed through the

scattered savages, and worked his way to-

ward the flank. Having obliqued for a
considerable distance, he again attempted ,
to let the party pass him, This time he
seemed to have better success, and had
almost reached the rear by gradual degrees,
   

¥

He was' béginnitg to congratulate himself,

When he was sturtléd by a blow upon the

shoulder from a hatehet-iandle, at the same

time that he received a fresh push in the
| onward direction.

This was carrying the joke quite too far.
Evidently, Néd was in for a venture, whe-
ther he would or no! His feelings were
not settled’ in the’ least when he heard the
savive inquiring of thse about as to what
Tndian' he wis!

Ned was nit disposed to stbmit to an

E examination, for he saw that the attention

e of several’ savages had beew ditécted toward

him. He started onward, at a quicker pice,

“a and began to nove back toward the ¢edter

Ei of the gaiig.

Just at’ that moment, the partids: met;
and, in thé short pause which’ followed, the
ofticiots Iidian pulléd Neéd’s blanket’ fron
bis head! The operation brought off the
tight Gap which the’ scout wore, and lett
his féxtures plainly visible’ to the gaping
sivages.

Had there been a single oné to mike the

discovery, there Wowld Hilve been # chanée

; for Néd to silence him; but he was well

: aware that at léast a dozen were oathered

if around, every one of whom raiséd a shout

. at the discovery !

In an instant, the blanket was stripped

from him, and appropriated by one who

seemed less blessed than some of his’ fel
lows. His rifle followed sdit, ahd then his

{ person underwent a closer examinatioh.

| Every thing which struck the fitey of the

sivages Was appropriated—knife, pistols,

F and the Tittle articles of a hrinférs equij)-

ment, all changed hands in a’ temarkably

sliort space Of time.

At a given signal, the Indians formed ifto
a soft of square, several, Who seemed to be
prominent among the braves, taking the in-
terior With Ned. The foung scout had not
Veet bound; nor was there any occasion,
sie hé was deprived of all weapons, and
q stitrounded by at least two store of sWartliy
b foes.

The tawny officials surrounded the  pris-

oner, but, before they could hold any coun-
cil, a savage broke from the circle, gazed
earnestly into the white’s face, and ex-
claimed :

“Smooth-Face !”

K » The hame was repeated by one ard an-
other of those assenibled, until qiité a com:
nidtion Was raised. The cognomen was
aa oné wl icli the Indians liad bestowed pin

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

18 THE SCOUTS VOW, ‘

 

e *

Ned, in some of his earlier adventures) in
derision of his beardless face. But the ter
riblé’ deéds’ which’ had’ followed, and in
which’ they had been the sufferers, had
changed the title of scorn to one of dread
and respect; for it is adn wndeniable fact
that the North’ American’ Indian’ entertains
réspect for a brave adversary. The skill of
Weitworth had beet such’ as’ to win’ their
unqualified admiration, though it was to be
seen that) they were not a little’ rejoiced to
hold him in’ their power ofce more.

Order Was soon restored, for a cértain
rude dis¢ipline was well dbserved among
the Indians. The ¢hief personages then
gathered abott thé prigonersand held a close
council for several minutes: Hiich one éx-
pressed i views in turn, and thé matter
was then referred to’ the chief of the party
for décision. ’

Daylight had been approaching for some’
time, and at this moment the’ first beams
of the sun fell upon the tops of the tall
trees. Was it an omen of hope for the
captive? Then he thought of Warren, who
was awaiting hini in the tréé-top, and of his
promise to come to him before daybreak.
This being an impossibility, he conténted
himself as bést' he might; while the old chief
sat and pondered over his sentence.

It came soon. Ned had some knowledge
of té Thdian fon@te, and he listened in-
tently to hear it, if possible. But it was
communicated in low tones to those next
the ¢hief; aid the one most mtérested was
none the wiser.

The nsual amount of Indian talk was
gone through with, and then a purty was!
selected to escort the prisoner to his desti-
nition. At that moment, the searcely fisen
sun was shut in by dense clouds. Was this
an Omen—an auguty of evil?

The party took their way back, almost
ih the direction they had corte, and Ned
was apprehensive lest they should come
unexpectedly upon Warren. But they turned
moré to the left, and when ‘they liad passed
the place, he felt a relief.

Indéed, lie now Was quite reconciled to
his situation. If he was to be taken back
to the rear, he felt a hope that he would
be taken to the general dépdt of prisoners,
and there, certainly, he would learn some
thing of Clara.  Paiti and captivity were
light indeed, if he could but ascertain the
whereabouts of her he loved. .

The guard coriductéd him along for some
distiince—it seemed to him two miles, at

 

:
}
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WAITING AND; WONDERING. 19

least. When they paused, it was upon, the.|
margin of a river, tributary to the Ohio,
It, was broad, and rather shallow. here,
though its dark waters would hardly invite
an attempt at fording.

Near the center, the river divided, and
the waters flowed upon either side of an,
island, which appeared, to. contain several
acres. Here the current was stronger, ow-
ing to the narrow limits, and. its blackness
proclaimed considerable depth, From. the
island rose seyeral slim columns of smoke,
and from this circumstance Ned at once di-
vined the truth of the whole matter. The
Indians had here established their head-
quarters, and to this place prisoners, and
spoils were taken.

Hope now assumed a definite form, He
was about to meet Clara. Even, death with
her seemed, preferable to, a life spent: in. sep-
aration! In his ardent joy, he almost for-
got the brother, whom, he had left in a situ-
ation, so, precarious, and who might, already
stand in, need of his assistance.

The savages paused here for some. time.
They seemed to be reckless and lazy. Ned’s
arms, after his sentence, had been bonnd,
but the work was not well done, and he
believed it possible to free them at any
time. But he had no wish now to. escape.
The island held a secret, he must penetrate.
Would his captors never bestir themselves ?

At length, one of them pulled out a ca-
noe, which had been hidden beneath the
bank. [t wus a frail affair of bark, which
seemed to have seen several years’ active
service. Tis greatest capacity seemed to be
four persons, and it were donbtful if even
that load would float.

Two Indians were selected to take the
white over, who finally got into the bark
with much grunting and ado, Ned stepped
in of himself, which operation seemed per-
fectly satisfactory to the lazy braves. At
this time they were a little distance above
the upper extremity of the island. A single
energetic rower would have laid the head
of his boat directly. across the river, and
landed at the upper end of the island. © But
the savages manifested so little inclination
to exert themselves that they came near
being carried past the lower end. By un-
usual exertions they brought the canoe to
land, and Ned sprung upon the shore.
Thus far he had geen no liying being upon
the island. Who or whatever there might
be, they bad kept themselves hidden.

_

 

 

 

What of; Warren Brown, the. enthusiastic
brother? He had remained in the tree,
watching, the. progress of affairs) below as
well as. the darkness, would admit. He
could, see, the moving, forms, and, he endeay-
ored to, watch Ned, but. he could not do
this with any, certainty. The few, forms he
could discern, seemed, to, mix.and. intermin-
gle, till his brain reeled, at the attempt to
follow them,

He then relinquished the effort, and  bra-
cing. himself in. the most comfortable posi-
tion. awaited events: He was tired and
worn out, with the experiences of the night,
and his, eyes showed; a great, disposition to.
close, in spite of. his. efforts to, keep them
open, Almost. before he, realized that, he
was sleepy, they dd. close, and, for some time
he sat in, the tree-top, and slept.

He awoke with a start, and came near
dropping his rifle. By, a lucky chance. it
caught upon, a small limb, and he saved it.

“ How careless in me to get asleep!” he
thought, looking. in every direction, “ I
must have slept some time, for it was black
as ink when I lost. consciousness, and now
it, must be near sunrise. What would Ned
think of me if he knew how careless’ I had
been? I wonder,if be has been here. and
gone away again! I don’t see anything of
him now! Strange he doesn’t come, unless
he’s had bad luck! But no—I believe he
has been here, and either couldn’t find me,
or has gone away disgusted !”

The frank youth nearly shed tears to,
think how he must have fallen from the
good opinion of his friend. Yet he cesoly-
ed to wait a little longer and see if he did
not return.

He waited some time, but no Ned came,
Warren began, to be alarmed, and had he
known in what direction to proceed, would
have descended, and attempted to discover
traces of the missing one. Then he began
to wonder if it was safe for him in that ex-
‘posed position. Any passing sayage might
espy him, and a bullet through the body
would teach him better than to seek such
an exposed roost. That the woods were
pretty well filled with the savages he had
good reason to believe, from the experience
of last night.

And if confirmation of the fact was want-
ed, he was destined to haye a fresh proof,

While “he was waiting and wondering,

the sounds of approaching bodies reached
his ears. He bent his head and looked in,
the direction whence the sounds pro

iii Shon: aia
 

 

 

 

    
 

 

20

ceeded. The forest was filled with moving
forms.

The youth was calm now, and the thought
of a rifle-ball crashing through his frame,
within the next few minutes, was any thing
but pleasant. He would have made the
attempt to go higher in the tree, but this he
saw was not readily to be done, and he
would not incur the risk of making any
noise. Possibly they might pass -by with-
out noticing him.

For atime his heart beat with hope.
They passed beneath him, twenty of them
or more, and he flattered himself they would
go on. But no! At the distance of a
half-dozen yards they paused, and an old
chief, whose hair might have been gray, if
it had been his fashion to wear hair, utter-
ed one or two guttural exclamations.

To the dismay of the tree-perched War-
ren, the whole party immediately came to
a halt, and began to scatter about, collect-
ing fuel and kindling a fire! The thought
of so much company to breakfast did not
please Warren; more especially as it was
hard to determine the source whence his
own meal was to be derived, unless he ate
it a prisoner among the Indians.

He was freed from any delusive hopes he
might entertain of not being discovered, by
a sharp rifle-shot from the assembly below.

The gun he held was knocked from his
hand, and the arm paralyzed by the bullet.
He looked down, and saw that the Indians
were gathering near the tree, with guns and
arrows aimed at him!

One after another fired, but it was evi-
dent that they rather wished to torture than
to injure him. Though he expected death
at each discharge, the missiles flew in close
proximity to his head, body and limbs, but
without doing any barm.

When the savages had amnsed themselves
sufficiently in this manner, one of them ap-
proached the tree, and in tolerable good
English sung out : ean?

“Come down !”

As the command admitted of no eqnivo-
cation, Warren slipped down, and soon stood
in the midst of the dusky men. They sub-
jected him to the same rigid scrutiny and
overhauling which Ned had endured, after
which his arms were lashed to his side in
such a manner that he could scarce move
even his fingers. .

Of course the everlasting council must
be held. Several of the councilors spoke

 

THE SCOUT’S VOW.

vanced from the number, and seized the
prisoner by the shoulder :

“Mine !” he managed to say, and imme-
diately repeated his assertion in the dialect
of his followers,

Sure enough, Warren did recognize the
Indian whom he had followed and assault-
ed early in the night, and who had taken
him under his protection, at that time. He
had escaped then, but it seemed the rela-
tion was to be renewed now. How it would
terminate in the present case remained to
be seen !

The tall fellow, brave, warrior, chief—
whatever he might be, seemed to stand in
special favor with the others, and after he
had thus appropriated the prisoner to him-
self, the rest dispersed to make preparations
for their breakfast.

The limited philosophy of Warren had not
discovered the necessity of a fire by which
to eat'a cold lunch ; but the savages spread
in a huge circle around theirs, warming their
moccasins as they ate. The prisoner shared
a portion of his patron’s dried meat, which
was regarded with longing eyes by his
greedy followers,

The meal over, other business came be-
fore the meeting. Warren was led from
the place, and fastened to a small tree. A
cord at his neck, one around his body, and
another about his limbs! Surely he had
seen and heard enough of Indian practices
to know the meaning of this !

His heart sunk within him—gave a fright-
ful leap, and then stood still! A cold
sweat broke out from every pore of his body.
Must he die thus ?

The savages continued to pile such fuel
as the forest afforded about him, using every
taunt and jeer which they could think of
but which amounted to nothing with the |
prisoner, as he could understand none of
them.

At length the pile was pronounced suf-
ficient, and at a signal from the tall chief,
a brand was taken from the morning’s fire,
and applied to the mass.

 

CHAPTER V.
Off and On.

Tue two lazy guards were startled into
something like life by the movements of
Ned Wentworth. One of them quickiy

their minds, when a tall, stately Indian ad- | leaped ashore and caught him by the wr,

 

 

 
 

A QUICK

The other followed, drew the boat upon the
sand, and then took the other arm.

Thus escorted, the prisoner was marched
several rods into the interior. The island
was quite uneven in surface, about one-half
of it being washed by the river at such
times as its current was swollen. The
balance was dry and covered with small
trees, shrubs and grass.

As they passed into the little forest, the
entire scene was presented to Wentworth’s
gaze. There were several squaws, a num-
ber of Indian boys, ten or twelve years of
fge, and a half-dozen of warriors, who, with
guns in hand, stood guard over a group of
prisoners in the center.

At last Ned had reached the place he
sought. His keen eye ran over the forms.
First he saw a boy of eight or nine years,
then two women who were strangers to
bim. There was another whom he could
not see distinctly. She was hidden ‘by the
intervening form of a sentinel. Yet his
heart leaped at the certainty that there was
another, for that must surely be the one he
sought.

One of the Indians who had been loiter-
ing near the captives came forward, and to
him the two guards delivered Ned. A few
gutturals communicated all that was neces-
Sary, apparently, for the twain took their
leave, and the young scout, to his intense
satisfaction, was conducted to the group he
had just been scanning.

He had not yet determined whether
Clara was present. Too much eagerness
might be fatal to his success in getting her
away, even if she was there. But, he had
not passed the line of guards when a voice,
which tould be that of but one person in
the world, fell upon his ears:

“Oh, Ned! Ned Wentworth !”

Tt was Clara!

Before the scout could reply, 8 savage
stepped up to her, and jabbering something
in his unknown dialect, struck her a smart
dlow with the flat of his hand. Just for
once he had reckoned without his host.
Ned saw the movement, and every spark
of manhood in his nature was aroused.
Though his hands were bound, he sprung
to the spot, and gave the miscreant such a
kick that landed him a rod away, sprawling
upon his back.

“Oh, Ned! they will kill you for that!”
gasped Clara, pale with affright.

“T guess not,” remarked Ned, carelessly. “I
think they will use me ull the better for it!”

32 2

 

 

RETORT. 21

For a moment the matter seemed. doubt-
ful. The Indian struggled to his feet, and
tried to raise his musket, but the blow had
been too severe, and sitting down he doubled
himself into an ungainly pile. The scout
acted as though perfectly unconcerned in
the matter. He seated himself near Clara,
and in a few impressive words he gave her
a gleam of hope which had not been hers
during that dark night. He assured her
that she, at least, should soon be rescued,
and taken back to Brownsville.

Clara smiled her thanks, though free to
confess that she saw little prospect of im-
mediate release. Ned replied by repeated
assurances, and she could not dispute him;
for when did love ever hold an argument
with its object ?

At first the Indians were disposed to use
summary measures with the violent young
scout. . But when they saw him voluntarily
take a seat upon the ground, and pay ne
further attention to the work he had done,
it seemed to strike them that he might be
insane. Indeed, more than one of the braves
touched his forehead, very much as a white
might haye done to indicate the same idea.
They were disposed to let him remain quiet,
if he would. a

The prisoner sat for some time convers-
ing with Clara, telling her such of his plans
as had been formed. Of course they must
trust in a great measure to chance, yet the
general rules which were to govern them,
ought to be well understood.

It had now commenced to rain. The
wind was driving the storm before,it, and
the water came down almost in torrents.
The storm swept in all its fury upon the
exposed party. The squaws and young
Indians crouched in a pile, the warriors
turned their backs to the drenching gusts,
while the poor prisoners scarcely heeded it.
Their thoughts were far away with the loved
ones from whom they had so rudely been
torn—who might, even now, be mangled
corpses.

To Ned alone the storm came as a wel-
come friend.’ He meant to leave the island
at the first opportunity, and this he believed
to have come now. He worked around in>
such a position that none of the Indians
might notice his movements, and then be-
gan the task of loosing his arms. Although
this was somewhat difficult, it was by no
means an impossibility. Modern rope-tying
feats have startled the civilized world, yet
the very task before Ned Wentworth, which
    
 

 

 

 

 

zi
ci
Ei
&

 

 

he treated so lightly, would have shocked a
Davenport beyond measure.

It required considerable time for him to
effect the desired object. The constraint
of his movements, the eyes of jealous guards
all around, were decidedly adverse to his
success. In the midst of his efforts the
cord parted with asnap! One of the guards
looked that way, grunted, cringed lower to
the storm, and drew his, blanket over his
head.

Ned unwonnd the cord from his wrists,
and then moved a little nearer to Clara,

“ Good-by for the present,” he said. “I’m
going now, but I shall be back soon. Keep
up hope, and be sure you will be rescued
goon.”

“ Be very careful, Ned,” the maiden urg-
ed.

“Never have any fears for me,” he re-
turned. “Iam going to show the savages
what it isto keep a ’coon after they’ve got
him.”

Suiting the action to the word, he sprung
to his feet, and with the speed of a startled
deer leaped through the thicket, toward the
bank of the river opposite that from which
he had come. The savage guards saw the
movement, but were so taken by surprise
that they hardly thought of any pursuit.
Half adozen guns were leveled as he was
on the point of disappearing, and half a
dozen clicking locks announced that not a
weapon on the island could be discharged.

Finding he was likely to escape them,
the savages set out in bawling pursuit, leay-
ing a single one of their number to keep
ward over the other prisoners, What was
their surprise, on reaching the margin of
the thicket, to find that the late prisoner
had disappeared. Certain that he could
not have left the island. they at once insti-
tuted a thorough search.

In their conjectures the savages were
partially correct. When Ned broke from
their camp so suddenly, he had no real plan
in view, but rather trusted to his naturally
quick perceptions in such matters to guide
him. Finding that none of the guns which
were aimed at him could be discharged, his
first thought was to take to the water, and
swim across to the opposite bank.

He did plunge into the water, but the
sight of several canoes along the bank
caused him to change his determination.
As the water at this point was not too deep
for wading, Ned at once turned his course
up-stream. He noticed that at the upper

 

THE SCOUT’S VOW.

extremity of the island the bushes grew to
the water’s edge. The thought naturally
presented itself that he might find a shelter
there.

He hastened in that direction, and had
barely placed the bushes in question behind
him, when his pursuers burst upon the lit-
tle beach, ,They were within a few yards
of the fugitive. The merest chance might
lead to his discovery. If he failed in find-
ing any refuge here, the young scout would
strike directly across the river, and make
his best efforts to reach the shore where he
had left his companion. his he believed
he could do before they could get boats
around to that side.

But a fortunate chance was in store for,
him. As he crept along, close to the bank,
he saw a sort of basin, worn by the con-
stant action and force of the high water.
It was roofed by the turf of the island, sup-
ported by the roots of trees, and the bottom
of it was at this time above the water.
Without any hesitation, he crawled in, and
rolled himself in a ball. It was quite com
fortable, inasmuch as he was protected from
the storm, and he much. doubted if the In-
dians would discover the retreat.

In a few minutes he heard them, and
even saw the earth above him yield at their
footsteps. For a few, moments his heart
beat rather more rapidly than usual. Then
he heard no more of them, and concluded
they had abandoned the search in that di-
rection. Yet he did not care to expose
himself at once,

_ The storm increased in fury rather than
abated, and after waiting till. satisfied that
no foes were in the vicinity, Ned carefully
drew himself from the retreat, and peered
over the bank,

All was quiet. The savages, if they still
conducted the search, had removed to some
other part of the island. Before setting out
for the mainland, Ned was anxious to know
the disposition of affairs here. He felt that
his vow might soon be accomplished, if he
did not mar it by any imprudence.

He crept along carefully, looking in every
direction to make sure that no crouching
savage was keeping an espionage over his
movements. He took his way along the —
margin of the brushwood, intending, if he
found the way clear, to plunge into the
water and swim across.

He had nearly reached the center of the
island, when he noticed a savage crouching
upon the ground, with his face turned

 

 
 

THE FIERY ORDEAL.

toward the oppositeshore. Hispurpose was
evident. He was looking for any appear-
ance of the scout, either in the water or
upon the land beyond.

At first Ned was disposed to leave him
there, and seek to elude his vision. But
when he caught a casual glimpse of the fel-
low’s features, his soul burned with a pas-
sion he could not repress. It was the same
savage that had offered the indignity to
Clara at his arrival!

“I would scorn to take advantage of ye
80,” the scout muttered, as he carefully stole
up behind the native, “but the feller that
will strike a woman because she speaks to a
feller-being, ain't entitled to any mercy—no
he ain’t!”

He had armed himself with a cobble-
stone, the only weapon the island presented.
The savage was watching so intently, and
the storm was raging so furiously, that he
had no thoughts for what might be behind
him. The gentle footsteps of the. scout
were not heard, and the first intimation the
Indian had of danger, was the sudden
spring of a heavy body, wenn landed full
upon his back.

Before he could even cry out, he was
grasped by the throat, and a quietus was
administered by the pebble. Appropriating
his weapons, Ned left the body as it lay,
and stole back to ‘the little grotto at) the
upper end of theisland. . The knife and toma-
hawk he belted around him, but the gun he
could not carry. He placed it in the hid-
ing-place, with the ammunition, to serve in
some future case of need, if any such there
should be.

He was now ready to leave the island.
No alarm had been created ; the Indians
no doubt believed him drowned. , He struck
out carefully, but though he was a power-
ful swimmer, he made slow progress, He
Was encumbered by the water- soaked cloth-
ing he wore, the weapons he carried, and
was borne down by the current. =

Yet he persevered, and in a short, time
had the satisfaction of climbing upon the
main-land again, As he erept back into
the forest he turned and regarded the island

closely. There it lay, desolate and gloomy,
with no external signs of the misery it held.

He paused a few minutes to regain his
breath, and let the water run from his
clothing, then turned into the wood, and
bent his steps carefully in the direction of
the place where he had left Warren. He
was deeply concerned for the welfare of

‘ume every moment.

 

that young man, and. the reader will judge
how well founded his fears. were.

We left Warren Brown subjected to the
fiery ordeal.

It were vain to attenrpt any description
of his feelings, . A thousand emotions
rushed over his soul, whelming it beneath a
sea of anguish. Naturally he was not
possessed of that stoical self-control which
fits a true scout for his vocation. The very
thought of death by torture was sufficient.
to plunge him into unutterable agony.

Combined with this was the thought that
his darling sister would be left in the hands
of the savages still, and if Ned lived he
would be left alone to the Herculean task
which they had undertaken.

But the young man did not complain. He
bowed his head as much as possible, and
sweat and suffered amid the taunts, jeers
and exultation of his savage foes.

The flames spread slowly, and the savages
danced with their usual mad delight. They
did not notice the sprinkling drops of rain
which fell thick and fast, increasing in vol-
The great drops fell
upon the feeble flames, and the wind
soughed in fury among the trees.

The Indians began to be alarmed as the
drenching floods fairly broke loose. The
fire failed to spread, and gradually died out,
notwithstanding their attempt to force it.

Warren ,began to feel encouraged.. If
they could not torture him at once, perhaps
they would relent, and if he were to die, kill
him at once. True, this was a dreadful
thought, that. he, so young, and to whom
life. presented so. many pleasures, must be
cut off in such an untimely manner, But,
the pain would be only momentary, and
this he believed he could endure.

He watched the last faint glow till it ex-
pired, and then nerved himself for the blow
expected. But the savages did not seem
disposed to act at once. They shrunk and
cringed, finally betaking themselves to the
shelter of some large trees with very heavy
foliage, which grew at a little distance,
Here they were sheltered in a measure from
the fury of the storm, and could keep a
scrutiny over the helpless prisoner, who was
soaked by the down-pouring floods. He
could scarcely move, and the rain swept
full upon him, but the idea of prolonged ex-
istence more than compensated for all this.

It seemed to him that the Indians had
left him in a vary careless manner, and he
 

 

 

 

 

‘not leave his mind.

‘upon his mind.

‘hoped that Ned might discover it. He

possessed unlimited faith in that brave young
scout.

“Of course he wouldn’t leave me here
and let the Indians kill me in this inhuman
manner,” he reasoned, “even if I did get
asleep and neglect my duty. But it is quite
as likely, poor fellow, that he is in greater
trouble himself. I am sure TI can’t help

‘him ; why should I think he can help me ?”

But, think so he did. The idea would
Once or twice in an
hour some of the savages would come down
and make sure of his safety, perhaps stop to
give him a taunt or a blow, and then hasten
back.

Thus the dreary hours passed. The rain
continued to descend as if the flood-gates of
Heaven had been let loose. The prisoner
grew tired, and his limbs ached fearfully.
He had stood thus so long that all power of
motion seemed to have left him. It seemed
he would have given worlds to have thrown

‘himself upon the ground and rested for an

hour.
fast.

Another fearful thought now dawned
The Indians had failed in
their attempt to burn him; death would
result, equally certain and scurcely less
painful, from his present position. Might
jt not be their fiendish pleasure to see him
die thus ?

Darkness was drawing on apace. Al-
ready the forest was clothed in gloom. A
stir among the savages announced that they
had some plan under consideration. The
rain gave promise of abating. The young
man listened intently, for he felt that he
‘nad reached a crisis. He heard the sound
of light feet approaching from the direction
of the savages, though he could not yet dis-
cover their forms.

But the unyielding cords held him

.

 

CHAPTER VI.
Scout Strategy.

Nep Wenrworrs made his way rapidly
toward the place where he had left Warren,
He felt that the dangers to which the young
man had been subjected during his half.
voluntary absence were of no ordinary na-
ture. Yet he had hope, for he knew the

“gavages would not be lurking there without

some purpose. It might be that they had
gone in another direction with the morning

 

THE SCOUT’S VOW.

light, and thus not have discovered the
prisoner.

Doubt would soon be at an end, how-
ever, for he rapidly approached the place.
He was a little uncertain as to the identical
spot. The utter darkness which had pre-
vailed, was not favorable for recognizing
places to a nicety. He felt sure the spout
must be near at hand, and he looked hope-
fully into every tree which came within
range of his vision.

Of course, his search among the tree-tops
was all in vain. He had paused in mo-
mentary uncertainty, when a slight sound,
which the storm did not make, drew his at-
tention. He looked in the direction, and
beheld a considerable body of savages, clus-
tered beneath some large trees, evidently in
the hope of escaping the fury of the tempest.

He felt in a moment that Warren was a
prisoner. It was hardly possible that he
could have escaped the notice of a band of
savages so numerous, who must have been
all around the young man’s perch. Ned
looked in the group of savages, as well as
he could, but saw no signs of any prisoner.
A keen pang shot to his* heart. He recol-
lected how much time had passed since
morning light broke over the forest, and in-
stinctively he felt that he should see War-
ren Brown no more!

For a moment, Ned was staggered by
the thought. Then his blood boiled- fear-
fully as he looked upon the dusky forms
crouching before him. He even grasped
the hatchet he carried, as though his single
arm could chastise them all.

Just then, a savage jumped up, and left
the group. Ned watched him curiously,
but was startled as he beheld the form of
his ardent companion bound to the tree.
He could not distinguish the features at that
distance, but he felt sure of the identity of
the figure.

Losing no time, he took a wide circle,
which should bring him upon the scene.
He was annoyed at finding the woods ex-
tremely open, and the trees of a small
growth. It would be an impossibility to
reach the place without attracting the atten-
tion of the savages. He saw that the In-
dian merely satisfied himself that the pris-
oner was fast, and then returned to his
companions. Ned resolved to govern his
own conduct by the same rule. So long as
no harm was offered the prisoner, he would
keep ata safe distance, and await a more
favorable moment for action.

 

 
 

!
j
j
:

 

HELPING THE ENEMY. %

$0 the long afternoon hours passed away.
Ned had found » place where he was in a
measure protected from the drenching rain,
and from this point he kept a close watch
over the fortunes of his companion. He
knew that Warren must be suffering exqui-
site torture, confined as he was; but he re-
flected that this would be better than an
abortive attempt at his release, which should
involve both in captivity, and perhaps in
death.

As night came on apace, the storm seem-
ed to have expended its fury. To be sure,
the rain still fell in plenty, but the howling
of the wind had ceased in a great measure,
and, like a giant after the conflict is over,
the elements seemed sinking into calmness
again.

How Ned Wentworth prayed for the
coming obscurity! His nervousness was
great, indeed. Several times he felt an im-
pulse to rush forward, and cut the prisoner
loose, come what might. But he controlled
himself for a short time, knowing that, if
the Indians remuined where they were, his
task would then be perfectly easy.

As the shades descended, he worked his
way gradually nearer to the place of War-
ren’s confinement. His knife, which, for a
wonder, was quite sharp, was in his hand,
ready for instant use. Prone upon the
ground, the young scout crawled, keeping
at just that distance which would render
his motions undisretritie 15 the Indians.

He was within a dozen feet of his object.
Tie had heard the savages moving, but had
hardly regarded it in his eagerness to free
Warren. Now, he was startled to find sev-
eral of them approaching—in fact, they
were already close at hand. Perhaps they
were merely coming to satisfy themselves
of the prisoner’s safety. Certainly, Ned
could not accomplish his designs in the face
of so many, and he drew back a little, to
mark their purpose.

There was no cover at hand—nothing
behind which the scout could screen hitm-
self. He therefore lay prone upon the
ground, ready to spring forward at any sign
of harm: to his friend.

The savages proceeded to unbind the
youth. No sooner weré the bonds which
held him to the tree cast off, than he sunk
to the ground, utterly tinable to stand. The
Indians proceeded to free his legs, and when
this was donie, they raised the youth to his
feet

After a few efforts; Warren was enabled

 

to walk, and then his guards set out. They
passed within » few feet of Ned Wentworth,
but in the growing darkness they did not
discover the prostrate form. He at once
suspected that they were destined for the
island rendezvous. In that case, he was
perfectly satisfied that they should go on,
for the present.

By the uncertain light, Ned discerned
five figures, besides that of the captive.
The odds were considerable, especially as
the scout was but half armed. Yet he
would not be deterred by that fact for a
moment. He followed them at a little dis
tance, and was soon satisfied beyond a doubt
that they were bound for the island.

Unlike the party which had conducted
himself, they hastened forward with al¥
speed, and the scout had some difficulty in
keeping sufficiently close to them to observe
their movements, without attracting atten-
tion. But he was equal to the task.

They stopped, at length, and by the
broad, smooth surface in front of them, Ned
at once discovered that they had reached
the river-bank. He even fancied that he
could discern where the dark surface of the
island rose from the smooth bosom of the
waters.

Ned well knew that if he succeeded in
the plan which he had partially formed, it
would be necessary for him to use caution
and celerity. He knew where the boat had
been concealed when he was taken over in
the morning, and he thought it more than
probable that it was there now.

In that direction he crawled, and en-
sconced himself in a clump of bushes. Into
these bushes the canoe had been drawn,
and as the young ranger took his position,
his hand rested upon the prow of the frail
bark. He clutched his hatchet, and awaited
the event.

As before, a single savage came poking
his way into the bush, groping about for
the canoe. Ned remained motionless till he
had found and half-shoved it into the water,
Then he sprung to his feet, and us the say-
age turned to see what produced the rust-
ling, the sturdy scout’s lintchet was burned
in his brain! The savage sunk to the earth
with a single gasp, and Ned hastily took
such articles from his person as he wisheds
A tolerably good gun was slung across his
back, with some ammunition. This the’
scout appropriated for his own use, slinging
it over his shoulder, as the Indian had worn’
it. The fellow had no other weapon, save
  

 

 

 

 

E |

ee

eae

 

   
 
 
   
 
  

 

  

a very questionable knife, which Ned threw
into the fore part of the boat.

He then pushed the canoe into the wa-
ter; but, ashe stepped aboard, he found it
destitute of paddles. They must be near
at hand, he thought, and, springing out, he
soon found them, stowed away among the
bushes.

Again he took his seat, and partly by the
paddles, and partly by the bushes, he suc-
eeeded in bringing it around, close to the
shore. The difference between a white-:man
and Indian is so great that it: is a daring
attempt for either to imitate the other. But
Ned was especially favored. It was very
dark, and the savages had no suspicion that
any person of his race, save the prisoner,
was near them.

The young scout rowed the canoe up to
the bank, and remained in his seat. The
captive was placed next to him, and another

- savage followed. Those upon the bank

pushed the craft off, with w few injunctions
in choice gutturals, to which Ned mumbled
an indistinct answer,

For a few moments the young adyen-
turer rowed steadily, the savage in the stern
merely directing the movements of the frail
bark. No sooner were they safely clear of
the bank, and in no danger from: the keen
eyes and sharp ears which were following
them, than Ned ceased his efforts, . It was
so dark that he could, scarcely distinguish
the outlines of the sayage who stood be-
tween him and the realization of his plans.
He grasped his hatchet, and bent. forward.
Ordinarily, he would have hesitated at play-
ing so treacherous a game. But when he
thought of the inhuman massacre at Browns-
ville, all his feelings of pity vanished,

As he expected, the Indian bent forward
to learn the cause of his supposed) brother
savage’s inaction, The movement brought
them almost in contact. The hatchet was
again brought into requisition, with deadly
effect.. The Indian rolled over the side of
the canoe, like a log, and despite all the
efforts of Ned to maintain the balance, their
boat was upset, and both of the whites
rolled into the water, almost simultaneously
with the Indian,

The first movement of the scout was to
grasp his companion, who, bound and help-
less as he was, would have sunk. instantly,
but for the kind offices of his deliverer.
Wentworth was an excellent swimmer, but
upon this oceasion he found himself well
matched,

 

THE SCOUTS VOW.

The constant rain, which for twe7e
hours had poured itself upon the earth, had
raised the river considerably, and. much in-
creased the strength of the current in which
the twain were now struggling.

Nea’s first thought was to strike for the
island; but he soon found that he could
accomplish very little by striking out in any
particular direction. Jt required all his ef-
forts to keep himself and companion. above
the water. He tried to get at the knife he
wore, and free the arms of his comrade,
but he could not do it, and a moment’s re-
flection showed him that the members
would be of very little use to their owner,
after the long confinement to which they
had been, subjected.

The scout had little inclination to return
to the shcre he had just quitted.. But he
was soon conscious of rapidly floating by
the island, and as they were much nearer
to this than the opposite shore, he used his
best endeavors to come to land. .At length
he was gratified to find that they had. left
the more rapid current, and were in the
much milder water which bordered. the
shore. Tlere he paused for a moment, to
rest, and involuntarily a low “ Thank God!”
broke from his lips. .

Up to this moment, Warren Brown had,
not realized the presence in which. he was,
So sudden and unexpected had been the
movements which caused their overturn,
that he had supposed the whole affair to be
aecidental. But now the tones of his com-
rade’s. voice brought a great light to. his
soul,

“Ned! Is it you?” he whispered, cau-
tiously.

“ Certain! Who should it be?”

“Then I, too, say ‘Thank God! TI had
about given up all hope !” j

“Well, never mind! We mustn’t talk
now; let us get to shore first.”

He renewed his exertions, and soon suc-
ceeded in reaching the bank. | Grasping
some bushes which grew near the margin,
he pulled himself and Warren out of the
flood. Then drawing his knife, he severed
the cords which confined the young man’s
arms.

“Try and get the use of ‘em soon as ye
can,” Ned remarked, sinking upon the
ground, beside his companion, for he was
much exhausted by the long struggle.

Warren proceeded to exercise his arms,
and for a short time neither of them sj oke,
At length he ventured :

 

 

 
 

 

 

TRY AGAIN.

“We must be some ways below the In-
fins on the bank,”

“Yes, we are safe enough for the present,
most likely. But it will soon be lighter.
See, there is one star already.”

The rain had ceased, and the clouds gave
promise of breaking away. As Ned re-
marked, a lone star had now shown. itself,
and as they gazed, others began to appear.

“This oncommon blackness will not last
much longer,” he continued; “ though,
whether the light will be of advantage to
us, is questionable, prehaps.”

Warren was busy chafing his wrists, and
he did not reply. Ned went on:

“I have some good news for you, War-

n; I’ve found out where Clara is !”

“Have you? Good! by the—

“Sh-h-h !” cautioned the scout.
must remember where you are.”

“Til try to. But tell me—where is she?”

“ You know where the Injins started to
tako you?”

“ Over the river, I suppose.”

“Not quite !”

Ned proceeded to relate the situation of
the island and the prisoners.

“ But for this accident,” he said, in con-
elusion, “I am sure we should have been
there, and prehaps have gotten her away
before this.”

* What will you do now ?”

“ Try it again,”

“Of course; but how will you go to
work? Prehaps there is not another boat
on this side of the river,”

“That can not be helped. We- must
make the best of such means as we: have.
I know you are. a good swimmer, and if
there is no other way, we must ‘ paddle our
own canoe,’ ”

“That isn’t what) I am most anxious
about, Ned. How shall we proceed after
we get to the island, and get Clara away ?”

“T have been thinking, of late, that we
Mirht, prehaps, take the river for our route,”
Wentworth returned. “We shall hardly
get to Brownsville if we undertake ‘it, at
present, There are too many Injins be-
tween here and there, to take women among
them. We can drop down the river, pos-
sibly without discovery, and reach the Ohio.
Then we can leave the women there at
some of the settlements, till we find out
low it is up to Brownsville.”

~The women! Do you think of taking
Others besides Clara 2” Warren asked.
“If we can,” was the contident answer,

“ You

t

 

caf

“Tf we git a chance to take them all, se
much the better. If we can’t take but one,
Clara shall be that one.”

By this time the clouds were breaking
away rapidly, and the moon began to shed
a silvery light over the scene. This was
decidedly adverse to the schemes of our
adventurers, since the soft rays would not
penetrate the wood, but lay like the sheen
of day upon the broad river. Yet they
were not to be daunted by these possible
disadvantages.

Warren now declared that his arms and
legs were as good as ever. Notwithstand-
ing the experiences through which he had
passed, he was quite as anxious as ever for
more of venture and peril. How to pro
ceed was now the only question. If they
attempted tv reach the island fiom their
present situation, they would be obliged te
swim against a strong current. The ad-
vantages for landing were also less than at

‘the upper end.

Ned, therefore, decided to make a circuit
inland, strike the river above the island, and
swim with the current. The only trouble
would be a chance encounter with the sav-
ages, and the scout had little fear of this.
The stock of weapons was »divided—War-
ren taking the musket, which was so well
soaked as to be useful oaly, asa club. Ned
relied solely upon the knife, his hatchet
having gone to the bottom of the river with
the last Indian he had slain.

They moved with all possible caution.
About half the distance had been passed,
when Ned pulled quickly at Warren’s sleeve.
The latter paused, and heard a tramping
close at hand.

“Down — keep quiet!” whispered the
scout, é

They threw themselves upon the ground,
and a party of Indians, three in number,
passed.at a little distance, muttering to one
another.

“They wonder that the chaps who went
over with you don’t come back,” Ned re-
marked, as he rose to his feet, “ Prehaps
they'll find out why when the last trumpet
blows.”

In a few minutes they stood upon the
bank of the river. Below them was to be
fliscerned the dim form of the island, where
all their hopes centered. Between rolled
the dark expanse of water. Brave though
both of the men were, they could not help.

wondering what fate might have in anne
for them,

no mean
asec adie

 
 

 

 

    

CHAPTER VII.
Island Incidents.

Tue two men had made all preparations
# trust themselves to the gloomy waters,
without any other support than their own
strong muscles, when Ned espied an object
which promised to be of service to them.
It was a section of drifiwood, some six or
eight feet in length, and of quite ample pro-
portions,

“ The yery thing we want,” he remarked,
after surveying it. ‘ Let us get this afloat,
and it will serve us as a boat and cover at
the same time. The water has risen, so
that it won’t seem out of the way to see a
hog floatin’.”

Of course Warren committed every thing
to the judgment of the scout. He assisted
in getting the log afloat, and when this was
done, he followed Ned’s suggestions in using
it. The log had been broken at each end,
and when it was in the water, one man
could support himself at either end, keeping
his head above the surface, close to the log,
with very little danger of detection.

“We must keep her so,” the scout said,
proceeding to acquaint his companion with
the singular recess he had discovered at the
end of the island. “If the Infins see the
log they may watch itv) In that case we
must guide her as near as possible to that
place, then dive, and fetch up under the
feet of the braves. I will risk their finding
us, especially in the dark.”

The current carried them along quite
rapidly, and a little effort on thepart of the
scouts kept the float in the proper channel.
As they drew near the island, Ned heard a
single guttural exclamation, and knew that
they were watched. He whispered to War-
ren, and as the log was now floating almost
broadside on, they easily lipped behind it,
and supported themselves till the float was
within a few feet of the shore.

“Now !” whispered Ned, and both sunk
from view beneath the surface. ;

The scout had his companion by the
hand, and he swam till their feet rested on
the sand. He crept along till he found the
recess, by which time both of them were
nearly out of breath.

Here we are,” Wentworth whispered,
as he passed his hand against the earth

‘above them.

The recess was partially filled with wa-
ter, but this was no objection. The whites

Matened, snd they could hear the move-

 

THE SCOUT’S VOW.

ments and observations of the Indians above
them.

The sounds ceased in a short time, and
Ned looked up cautiously. It was all clear,
now, so far as he could see.

“Do you stay here, Warren,” he whis-
pered, as he regained the side of his com-
panion, “ while I go down and take a look
at the boats. It won’t do to be balked tor
the want of a craft when we get ready to
leave.”

Young Brown promised to remain where
he was, and Ned set forth. He remember-
ed the place where the boats had been
drawn up on the shore, and knew that his
only safe way to reach it was by swimming.
He kept under water, save when it was ne-
cessary to breathe, and then was very care-
ful not to expose himself.

He reached the boats in a short. time,
and drew his head from the water behind
one of them, to take a good breath. This
done, and his only weapon in his hand,
ready for instant use, he proceeded to in-
vestigate,

There were five of the craft, but one of
them had been so seriously damaged that
it would not float. Of the others, two were
canoes, similar to that in which he had
made a voyage in the morning, when he
came to the island. One was larger—pos-
sibly would contain five or six persons;
while the other was more adapted to the
youth’s purpose. It was somewhat heavy,
and floated in the water, save at one end,
where it had been pushed upon the sand.
It would contain seven or eight persons-—
was quite ample, indeed, for the entire party,
should he be so fortunate as to bring them
all away.

He noticed every thing which would be
essential for him to recollect, and as a fin-
ishing blow, took his knife and worked
away till all the other canoes were render-
ed useless. This done he hastened back
to the place where he had left Warren,
using the same precautions as before in de-
scending.

He found
awaiting him.

“ What success ?”? he demanded, shiver-
ing from his long immersion in the chilly
water.

“Every thing prospers so far,” replied
Ned.

He then gave an account of what he had
done, and the bold measures he had taken

to avoid pursuit.

the young man anxiously

 

 
 

4 ‘
SE aa

A. FRESH ARRIVAL.

“1 must leave you once more,” conclud-
ed the scout. “T will work down to a
spot where I can make out the lay of the
land, and if possible whisper a word to
Clara. Then I can strike upon some plan
of action, and we will be about it.”

He crawled away, and was in the brush-
wood overhead in a moment. Whatever
savages might be upon the island seemed
perfectly quiet, and Wentworth crept along
through the bushes with a’ buoyant’ heart.
He pictured to himself the four unhappy
captives, once more restored to home and
friends through the energy of himself and
companion. The very anticipation of such
& consummation caused his heart to thrill
with all the joys of realized success. Of all
the many triumphant scenes through which
he had passed, he could recall none to equal
the present, should he but succeed:

He crept up till he could look in upon
the little camp. All was) still, though he
fancied he heard the movements of Indian
guards. He could see where the squaws
and boys were curled up in a general heap,
bnt that was of no interest to him. He
slowly worked along in the direction of the
captives.

Raising his head, he looked over the bush-
es. He was directly behind a tall Indian,
Who was moving about uneasily. A sharp
look satisfied Ned that this was the only
savage on duty. He regretted now that
he had not taken Warren with him, as a
single cautious blow would have brought
deliverance to the dismal’ group of pris-
oners, who where “huddled close together,
Wet, chilled, and hopeless.

There was no course open to the scout
but to hasten back and acquaint his com-
panion with the propitious state of affairs,
and then strike the decisive blow as soon as
Possible,

He had turned to retrace his steps, when
& sudden commotion at the upper end of
the island startled him. It also reached the
ears of two or three sleeping savages, who
sprung to their feet and hurried im the di-
rection of the tumult.

Ned felt no doubt that Warren had, by
some means, gotten into trouble. How, he
hardly could imagine.» Knowing that he
could be of no immediate assistance, he al-
lowed the Iniians to pass on while he crawl-
ed up more leisurely. He found the upper
end of the island swarming with savages,
and begin to realize that his own position
was far from safe. But he would not re-

 

treat. He worked his way along, crawling
within six feet of two brawny Indians, keep-
ing a hand upon his knife, ready for any
emergency.

He soon saw the cause of the strange ta-
mult. Two canoes, filled with savages, had
just arrived, and were now drawn up on
the bank, upon either side of the scout’s
hiding-place. Ned felt his heart sink—not
with the prospect of danger, but of hopes
deferred. Of course it would not be possi-
ble to carry out his schemes till the island
should become quiet again.

He satisfied himself that Warren had not
been discovered, and then he waited tilf
the savages took their way toward the
camp. He did not immediately seek his
companion, but followed the red-men. He
was resolved that no possible opportunity
for the accomplishment of his purposes
should pass unimproved.

His worst fears, were realized, They at
onee proceeded to the place where the pris-
oners were huddled together. From the
limited knowledge of their language which
he possessed, and the gestures of different
parties, Ned was enabled to comprehend
much of the purport of the colloquy which
followed.

One of the new-comers, 4 tall, dignified
fellow, wearing a heavy robe ornamented
with the skin of a rattlesnake, took a hasty
survey of the prisoners, then turned to the
one who had charge of them, and made in-
quiries, for the white men who had been
seit over. The fellow indicated the sup-
posed tate of one by drowning, but stoutly
denied all knowledge of the other. There-
upon. high words ensued between the two,
which were all lost upon the ears of the
listening scout.

But he saw the result. Additional
guards were put over the prisoners who re-
mained, then a fire was prepared, and after
much trouble lighted, Around this the
Indians squatted, and soon all was silence
again,

Ned knew now that his schemes were
utterly frustrated for the night, as a strict,
watch would be kept, and only force could
effect any thing in the present condition of
affairs. With a heavy heart he took his
way back, toward the retreat where he had
left his companion. A solitary Indian was
sitting disconsolately upon one of the boats,
but his back was toward the retreat, and
Ned easily eluded his notice.

He elated the facts, as they existed, to
_ Warren.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

That individual was even more
disheartened than Ned. He was chilled,
benumbed, and suffering from the cruel ex-
periences of the past day. It had been
forty hours since he had slept, and his eye-
lids were heavy with fatigue and drowsiness.

“Tf we can’t do any thing to-night,” he
said, “I suppose you will try to find some
place where we can rest a little, won’t you ?”

“JT shall find a place where you can
sleep,” said Ned, who really pitied his com-
rade. “ As for myself, T shall hang around
here till near morning, to make sure there’s
no chance’to do what we're after.”

They were discussing the idea of crossing
the river, when the young scout fancied he
heard a movement above them. He cau-
tioned his companion to silence; but it was
too late. The savage upon the canoe had
heard the cautious voices, and in a moment
his face appeared, bent over the bank at the
mouth of the retreat. The whites preserv-
ed a strict silence, knowing that no mortal
eyesight could penetrate the darkness, and
thinking the savage might leave them. But
he had evidently made a discovery, and his
shrill whoop went echoing the length and
breadth of the island !

Here, then, was something not really in
the programme. They were, in effect, dis-
covered, and the only question was how to
escape capture— for neither of them had any
desire to fall into the hands of the red-men
again. The savage who had raised the
alarm was either very stupid, or he had no
idea that he was bearding desperate men in
their den. He remained hanging over the
bank till he found himself drawn down by
a grip upon his throat, which he had no
power to resist. A speedy termination was
put to his struggles, the body dragged into
the cavity, and then Ned grasped his com-
panion’s hand.

“ Divye—swim around to the right !” were
all the words he deemed necessary for an
understanding of his purpose.

They plunged into the water without
noise, and us they did so the tramp of hur-
rying Indians could be heard scarcely six
yards away. They reached the spot, look-
ed in wonder and surprise for any unusual
demonstrations, an) felt a little curious to
know what had become of the brave who
had given the alarm. Of course, the more
they searched the more the mystery grew
—whether it was ever solved, does not ap-
pear.

The swimmers made a long pull, both

 

THE SCOUT’S VOW.

coming to the surface about the same mo-
ment. They had passed the corner of the
island, and were sheltered from the gaze of
their foes for the present.

“Tt is possible there’s an openin’ for us
now,” said the scout. “ Mostiof’em must
be up yonder; possibly we can steal a march
on’em. Do you lay flat beside this boat,
while I go and see !”

Warren threw himself upon the ground,
as indicated, while Ned crept across the
sand, and reconnoitered again. The sight
which met his gaze was not a cheering one.
Three armed Indians divided their attention
between the prisoners and the surrounding
bushes, manifesting a vigilance which seem-
ed to dash all hopes of freeing the captives
now. Had there been no others, Ned
Wentworth would not have hesitated one
moment to make the attempt; but there
was a body of savages within a hundred
yards, already upon the alert, whom the
slightest alarm would call down upon them.
Under these circumstances he was forced
to curb his impatience, and seek his com-
panion.

“We can do nothing,” he whispered,

throwing himself beside Warren. “They
are very jealous, and it would be madness
to make any attempt now. We will cross
over to this side, and sleep what time re-
mains till morning.”

“A boat wouldn’t be bad, just at this
time,” remarked Warren.

“No; nor would it be of any use, It
would be almost certain to betray us, and
we must keep out of their sight now if pos
sible. There is no way but to swim for it,
this time !”

Before they could speak further, a savage
appeared some distance above them, looking
anxiously for the cause of their late sudden
alarm. The whites crept behind one of the
canoes, and waded down into the water.
The Indian was coming that way, looking
carelessly around. They maintained per-
fect silence, and he turned short in his
course, returning to his fellows about the
comfortable fire. :

“ Come—we will go now,” said Ned,
cautiously, “before we get into a scrape.
Now for it—swim easy !”

They struck out, allowing themselves to
float with the current somewhat, and landed
at a considerable distance below. the island.
They found the shore covered with bushes;
and admirably adapted to the purposes ot
concealment, Striking into the forest for

 
 

 

 

THE QUESTION

some distance, they found a resting-place
between the spreading roots of a large tree.
Here they prepared to pass the few hours
which would intervene before morning light
again returned.

“Tell me one thing, honestly,” said
Warren, placing his hand upon the arm of
his companion, and gazing into his face.
“Do you think it will ever be possible for
us to get Clara away from those Indian
dogs ?”

The scout noticed the tone and manner
of his companion, and he read the feelings
Which prompted the question.

“What makes you think we sha’n’t ?” he
asked,

“TI didn’t say I thought so,” the other
replied. “I asked. your opinion in ‘the
matter.”

“I know—but. your language meant
more than what you said. Sleep on it, and
you will feel better in the morning. Every
thing depends on keeping up a good heart.”

“ Yes, I know all that, Ned. But hu-
man beings can’t do impossibilities. I know
I enticed you to come—that is, I was the
fitst one to speak of it; but I won't ask you
to put your life in peril any longer !”

There was an utter disheartening in the
tones which stung the young scout to the
soul. He loved Warren Brown, as though
hv had been. his own brother, and he was
filled with pity for the young man. He
Knew what a terrible ordeal he had gone
through since setting forth, and how it must
have worn upon his nervous system, all
unused as it was to such excitement.

“T feel confidence; Warren—perfect con-
fidence. T have taken a vow to see Clara
Testored to her home, and I shall do it, or
die in the attempt! But. we need not be
discouraged —all_ is working well. Take
Courage, Warren, sleep upon it, and in the
Morning we will talk the matter over at our
leisure, Come, now throw away all bad
feelin’s, and take the time for sleepin’—
yowll need it all !”

PH be governed by you, Ned,” the youth
returned, earnestly. “Tl wry and ‘sleep a
little, for, as you say, I know I shall need
it}

Wet, weary, and half famished, the two
men lay down upon the damp ground, and
Sweet, refreshing slumber soon visited their
eyelids,

 

 

OF BREAKFAST, 81

CHAPTER ‘VIII.
Another Day.

Tue twain awakened just as the faint
dawn of coming day began to light up the
eastern horizon. They rose, stretched their
stiff limbs, and looked around to assure
themselves that no Indians were near.

Had either of them been familiar with
the life and wise saws of a certain famous
esquire of an equally famous. knight, they
might have echoed his blessings upon the
min who “invented sleep.” But Ned
bluntly asked Warren how he felt after sleep-
ing, and the latter replied, that he felt very
well, with the exception of a slight head-
ache,

“ First’ thing, we’ll take a look at the
island,” said. Ned, in a business-like manner,
“Tf all’s safe over there we will look out for
some breakfast.”

They moved down till they came to the
margin of the river, and then ascended it
till they were opposite the place of interest.
They remained there for some time, keep-
ing a close watch of all movements on and
about the island. The Indian fire still
burned, as was attested by the rising smoke,
and the smell of roasting meat saluted their
nostrils. It brought to them still more pal-
pably the growing hunger which preyed
upon their own vitals, but they conquered
the craving with an effort.

“There is no doubt the prisoners are
there yet,” said the scout, after he had scru-
tinized the place to his satisfaction. “Now
we will consider the question of something
to eat.”

be had,” remarked Warren.

“ Just so; and like a toper with his grog,
we wouldn’t be at all particular as to the
quality, if the quantity was sufficient. But
seriously, our chance of getting a breakfast
is rather slim. This powder, as you see, is

to get the gun in shooting order, if we had
ammunition. If you will stay here, and
keep an eye upon the island, and see that
they don’t move the women anywhere else,
J will take a turn in the woods, and see if
I can’t pick up something.”

Warren glanced at the knife which con-
stituted the sum total of hig companion’s
offensive armor, as much as to say:

“ We shall hardly be in danger of making
gluttons of ourselves on what you will bring

 

in y

 

“It would be very acceptable, if it could.

quite wet, and it would be an all-day’s job.

an
 

 

 

nn ie A

 

82 THE SCOUT’S VOW.

Ned noticed the look, and he guessed the
thought of the gazer.

“Prehaps you think my knife will not be
sufficient to provide us a breakfast. But it
will be our only dependence till we can pick
up a gun; so here goes!”

Warren promised to keep a sharp look-out
for any movements of the red-skins, and Ned
had perfect faith that he would perform the
task with all due care and skill. A cluster
of bushes near the edge of the river afforded
a capital look-out, and furnished an excellent
cover from the keen eyes of the Indians,

Wentworth cast one longing glance upon
the low island which was supposed to con-
tain the form of her he loved, and then de-
parted upon his unpromising errand,

Grasping the knife resolutely in his right
hand, so as to be prepared for any sudden
emergency, the scout stole along through the
forest, looking carefully in all directions for
any game which it would be possible for
him to secure.

Bending over a hardy limb, he severed it
from the trunk, and soon whittled out quite
a formidable club.

“ This will answer me in place of suthin’
better,” he said, swinging the rough stick in
his hand.

Tt was some four feet long, and as heavy
as he could wield with ease.

He started on again, keeping both the
knife and club in readiness. The only liv-
ing thing he had discovered thus far was a
rattlesnake, which hastened away with all
possible speed.

“TJ think Pll look a little further before I
make an attack upon you, old hollow-tail,”
the scout muttered. “ We may be reduced
to rattlesnake soup yet, but I don’t fancy
it upon an empty stomach !”

fle had barely taken bulf a dozen steps
when the sharp crack of a rifle, and the
peculiar “ hiss” of an imperfect bullet with-
in avery few inches of his head, caused
the young scout a slight sensation of uneasi-
ness! Was he in the midst of foes again ?

He looked quickly in the direction whence
the shot had come, but was a little surprised
at seeing only a single savage, who stood
behind a tree, watching the effect of his bul-
let. Seeing that the white man did not
sliow any signs of being hit, the Indian be-
gan reloading his piece with great energy ;
an operation not altogether to the satistac-
tion of Ned.

Convinced that the red-skin was alone,
he brought the club he carried into position

 

for instant use, and sprung toward the spot,
The Indian apprehended danger from the
tall hunter, and turned to run, dropping his
powder-horn as he did so. For a moment
Ned felt disposed to secure this prize and
return content. But he reflected that the
task before him was one to be accomplished
only by desperate measures, and it would
not do to let the treacherous savage go
free.

The Indian was no match in running for
the strong-limbed scout, and the latter gain-
ed at every bound. He had almost: reached
the tawny fugitive, when the latter turned
suddenly and made an attempt to throw his
hatchet. He did throw it, but it flew wide
through the forest, and the next’ moment
the Indian brave dropped to the ground like
a stricken ox.

Ned took his weapons, flint and steel for
striking fire, and such articles as would
prove of use, by which time the warrior be-
gan to show signs of returning conscious-
ness. There was.a coil of thongs about his
waist, evidently cut from a dried skin for
the present war-path. The scout quickly
unbound them and tied the brave hand and
foot. He was about to leave him thus, when
he noticed an unseemly bunch in the In-
dian’s blanket, which was tied about his
shoulders. He proceeded to an examina-
tion. To his joy he found it to be a nice

piece of dried venison, several pounds in —

weight. He divided it, placing @ portion
where the former possessor could gnaw up-
on it if occasion required, and took the re-
mainder under his own care,

“How strangely things work in this
world,” he mused, as he wended his way
back. “ Here is this red-skin, took deliber-
ate aim when I was unsuspectin’ any such
visit, but his ball went wide. As the mat-
ter proved, his treachery was the means of
supplyin’ the very things we needed most—
weapons, powder and breakfast |”

He approached. the place where he had
left Warren very cautiously, his heart bound-
ing with joy at the load of good news he
bore. The young man was carefully scru-
tinizing the island, but he detected the ap-
proach of his friend. His eye lighted up
as he beheld the gun.

“Good, good!’ he exclaimed, in a glad
whisper. “ You've found a shooting-stick,
though I don’t see the breakfast !”

Ned unrolled the-venison, and held it up
to view. The joy of Warren was now
complete. A generous slice was shared,

 
 

A HAND IN THE GAME. 83

and while they were eating it the scout re-
lated the substance of his adventure.

“Rather a good-lookin’ rifle, this,” he
added, holding it up to his companion.
“ Shouldn’t wonder if it shot toa hair, when
it’s tilled decent.”

“Let me see it!’ exclaimed Brown,
eagerly. “By the great dinner-horn! if
that ain't my own gun, may I be shot!”

“Is it possible ?”

“Yes it is—and that is my horn and
pouch, too! I am mnch obliged to that
Injin for keeping them !”

Despite Warren’s protestations, Ned in-
sisted upon his taking his original weapon,
while he assumed the musket, which he
proceeded to put in order for use. This
done, the horn which he had thrown upon
the ground as useless, was relieved of the
damp powder, and placed where the beams
of the sun would thoroughly dry it.

Their hearts now beat with much more
vigor, for they realized that they were pretty
fairly armed, and hoped to proceed in their
darling scheme with brighter prospects of
success,

Of course all the preparations took time,
aid when they were fairly ready for action,
t was nearly noon. Ned had selected a
place from which a more perfeet view of
the island could be had, and ‘to that point
they removed.

All continued quiet on and about the
island, save that, now and then, a single
savage made his uppearance outside the
thicket which bounded the view of the
Watchers. A little smoke curled up lazily

from the Indian camp, and there was no in-

ication that matters would change till night-
fall.

“Tt will be best for you to sleep, War-
ren,” Ned observed, as he noticed the other's
yawn, “There will be nothing stirring,
and if there is I can easily let you know.
There'll be no time for it to-night.”

“But I don't need sleep any more than
you,” said Brown, to whom the idea of a
“nap” was especially grateful.

“Yes you do,” the scout replied. “Tam
more used to such things, and don’t feel as

bad; besides, I hain’t had so rough a time

as you did when you was tied up to that
tree all day. Here is a good place to sleep
—bunk right down, and take it when you
can ; that is the way old hunters do !”
Warren was on the point of heeding the
injunction, when movements upon the isI-

_ and attracted their attention.

 

“'St! See there!’ exclaimed Ned, in a
sharp whisper; “ there is something afloat,
true as you live!”

Two Indians had come down to the mar-
gin of the river, and commenced hauling
over the canoes which lay there. They
seemed somewhat astonished at the traces
of the scout’s handiwork, but finally push-
ed off the larger, and while one of them
took his seat in it, the other hastened back
toward the pale smoke which still curled up
in a light column.

“What are they going to de?” asked
Warner.

“T don’t know, any more than you,” re-
turned the scout. “ But I can tell you my
impressions about it: I think they are goin’
to take them women-folks off somewhere.”

“I wouldn’t wonder. TI only hope they
will go about it so we can have a hand in
the game!”

“We must, Warren, if there is any pos
sible chance. It never’ll do to let any’op-
portunity slip. We are armed now, and
can make an impression if we ever can.
We'll get down a few rods, where they'll be
most likely to land, and see what chance
there is!”

They stole down along the bank of the
river, and when they had reached a point
which seemed to promise concealment, they
threw themselves upon the ground, and
watched the proceedings upon the island.
Scarcely had they got into position, when a
body of ‘savages approached, conducting the
prisoners down to the boat. The squaws
and Indian boys followed, so that it seemed
the island was to be really evacuated.

There was something of a commotion
when the party reached the single boat, and
all seemed anxious to be first, But the dis-
pute was finally checked, and the whole
party divided into boat-loads. There were
four loads, and the watchers began to gain
hope from the manner of their division.
First came the two women and four In-
dians, leaving thé boy and Clara, each guard-
ed by a brave, to come over when the boat
should return.

“Come,” said Ned, creeping away from
the place, “we must give them more room.
The odds will be somethin’, but I've a plan,
and I think it will work.”

Warren thought so, too, for he knew how
well the young scout could plan. He obey-
ed the signals given, and in a moment they
were behind the shelter of two large but-
ton woods,
 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

84 ; THE SCOUT’S VOW.

The first. boat-load came over very soon
after starting, as the rowers worked with
awll. They landed, and a single brave
sprung into the boat to take it back. It
was a more tedious task to row the empty
boat, as the current ran quite strong. But
he crossed at length, and with beating hearts
both the whites saw Clara step into the
boat.

The three braves who had reached the
shore stood gazing intently after their fel-
lows. They were entirely unconscious of
danger, and a very easy conquest might
have been made. But that was not the ob-
ject.in. view. The least disturbance would
apprise those upon the island of their dan-
ger,and Clara would still remain in their
power.

Seeing that. the boat had not yet started
upon its return, Ned crept to the side of
his companion.

“The moment is coming !” he exclaimed,

‘ joyfully. “ We shall be successful, 1 know

it. Now for the plan. You have a good
rifle, well charged, while Iam not so sure
of this musket. Any minute after Clara
.gets to the shore, and the savages get well
out of the boat, you may fire. But, one
thing—do not shoot at all till you can take
two in a,range. Then fire, give a yell,
and rush! We can take them by surprise,
and ten to one we shall whip them all in
just half a minute.”

“Tl do it,’ said Warren, with an earn-
est gripe of the hand,“ and I'll make a sure

thing of it, too. Don’t be afraid to trust
me, Ned.”

“T know what you are with a rifle,” re-
turned the scout, “and I want you to make
such a shot now as you never made before.
Be cool—they are almost ready.”

The scout carefully cocked his musket,
and crept back to his own cover, where he
awaited the dread moment. What a world
of fate hung upon the events of the next
two minutes |

The concealed marksmen were not more
than twenty yards away, and the boat was
still nearer. The crisis would not long be
delayed.

The banks of the river were low, espe-
cially at the landing-place which had been
selected by the savages. The boat was run
up to the bank, and the captives made to
leap ashore. They were followed by two
Indians, while the third gave his attention
to rowing back the boat.

At this moment the sharp crack of War-

 

ren Brown’s rifle echoed far and near,
through forest and over river. | I'rue to his
word, two savages dropped to the earth
simultaneously with the report. The con-
sternation of the survivors was immense.
He who remained in the canoe bent low,
and plied his utmost endeavors to leave the
shore; but a loud musket report followed
close upon that of the rifle, and the savage
pitched into the bottom of the boat, with a
ball between his shoulders.

With wild, fierce yells, the two whites
rushed upon their red foes,. Three of them
remained, but they were wholly unprepared
for the conflict. Before they could produce
a weapon, one of their number was struck
to the earth, and the two who survived
found themselves matched, man to man.

Ned was opposed to a tall, brawny In-
dian, who was resolutely tugging away at
his hatchet. The scout did not wait for
any ceremony. He plunged his knife into
the savage’s side, but it did not follow that
the Indian was conquered. He was a tall,
heavy fellow, possessed of immense muscu-
lar development, and proved no mean an-
tagonist.

Enfolding Ned in a close embrace, he
struggled toward the river. The scout di-
vined his intention, and resisted manfully.
But despite his utmost endeavors, they drew
gradually nearer the bank. Ned did not
relish a cold bath just then, for he had not
forgotten the numerous immersions of yes-
terday. He struggled desperately, and found
that hig adversary was growing weaker.
Cautiously releasing his hold with one hand,
he slipped it toward his tomahawk. The
movement was successful; but as Ned drew
the weapon forth, he saw that the battle
was ended, so far as the Indian was con-
cerned. He was staggering wildly, and in
a moment more he sunk to the ground,
gasping painfully.

Before the scout could realize his good
fortune, he heard a quick movement behind
him, and sprung aside just in time to avoid
a heavy blow from the hatchet of the re-
maining savage. The scout was well versed
in the use of the weapon, and hurled his
own with all his remaining strength. It
struck the Indian just above the ear, as he
was in the act of turning, and felled him
to the ground.

The last of the savages had fallen. But
how had it fared with Ned’s companion ?

 

 
 

A DREADFUL DREAM.

CHAPTER IX.
Scout vs. Indian.

THE scout’s happiness at their triumph
was neutralized when he saw Warren lying
upon the ground. Whether he was killed,
or only wounded, he knew not. To his
satisfaction, he found that the captive wo-
men had released each other’s arms, and
were already paying attention to their fallen
deliverer.

“Ts he hurt badly 2?” Ned asked, making
his way toward the prostrate man.

“Laws a me! Don’t ask if he’s hurt!”
exclaimed a shrill voice, as one of the wo-
men confronted the scout. “A man with
his head smashed all clean to atoms, like
his’n! If he’s alive now, he’ll never breathe
many more times !”

“Now cease your foolish: nonsense, Fi-
ducia,” exclaimed a tall, grave woman, re-
proachfully. “TI can find no wound except
a bruise upon the head, which I am sure is
not so very serious. Please look at it, sir,
and tell us what you think.”

By this time Ned worked his way to the
side of his companion, and knelt to exam-
ine the nature of his injuries. He found,
as had been stated, a single contusion upon
the young man’s head—evidently a sweep-
ing blow from a hatchet.

He had barely satisfied himself upon that
point, when Warren opened his eyes.

“Where is the derned red-skin ?”
asked, as he encountered Ned’s eye.

“ He lies down yonder,” was the careless
Teply.

The youth smiled, raised his hand to the
aching head, and struggled to his feet.

“That is the same Injin that I had my
first squabble with,” remarked. Warren, as
his eyes rested upon the figure. ‘“‘ He took
me under his especial care, and undertook
te roast me once; but fate prevented. It
seems to have been my fortune to meet
him.”

“You won't be apt to meet him any
more,” replied Ned.

As he turned, he saw Clara. The maid-
en was pale, and looked frightened, but she
placed her hand in that of the brave scout.
Their eyes met, and spoke more of fond
affection than any words could have done.
For a moment Ned held her to his bosom,

he

pressing her hand fondly, then he tore him-

self away.
The boat ‘had floated down the stream
several yards, but it was not far from the

 

shore, and with a bound the scout sprung
into it. The body of the Indian lay as it
had fallen, in the bottom, and the first
thing to be done was to throw it overboard,
This he accomplished, and rowed the boat
in to the shore. Pulling off an Indian’s
blanket, he wiped the blood from the sides
and thwarts, then called upon the rescued
to hasten aboard.

“ Come,” he said, “ we must lose no time.
If we want to save our lives we must leave
this place. Do you get aboard, while I
pick up such weapons as we may need.”

He picked up two or three muskets, mis-
erable affairs, which he threw aside, and
then drew from beneath one of those whom
Warren had shot, a rifle. Imagine his sur-
prise—and it was a pleasant one—to find
it his own honored weapon! He could
have kissed it for very joy, only he had no
time for demonstrations.

He selected two muskets, three or four
horns of powder and bullet-pouches, as
many knives and hatchets, with a couple
of blankets. Well laden with the spoil, he
hastened to the boat and pushed it into the
water,

The hubbub which the Indian boys and
squaws kept up on the island was immense-
ly unfavorable to their safety, and the scout
wished to take a fair start. He grasped
the oars, and pulled the heavy boat into
the current. Warren bathed his aching
head, and then insisted upon sharing the
toil. .

Soon a curve in the stream hid the island
from their view, and lifted a load from their
hearts, The expressions of each might
have been regarded as an index of their
characters,

“ Gosh !” exclaimed Goodwin Duncan, the
boy, “ won’t them greasy critters feel cheap
when they find how we’ye gin ’em the slip !

“Don’t be too sure, Goodie,” sighed Fi-
ducia Scranton, a maiden aunt of the boy.
“We've got a little ways, to be sure, but I
jest as much expect we shull all be tuk
ay’in, and roasted alive, as I expect any
thing in the world, I dreamed of eatin’
roasted meat last night, and that is a sure
sign, I reckon. I know ’twas jest so when
Sam Russell stayed with me. We’s engaged
tew be married ; but Sam dropped the dip-
per when he went after some water, and I
told him we shouldn’t never be married,
’cause ’twas abad sign. Sam laughed about
it, but sure enough, it turned out jest as I
had told him !”
 

“ Fie, fie, sister!” said Mary Duncan, the
tall, dignified woman, as soon as her loqua-
cious relative gave her a chance to speak,
“you always tell about something of no
importance. Tam sure we ought to take
heart, and thank these noble men for their
efforts in our behalf Very few, indeed,
would have taken the risk they have taken
to set us free.” ‘

Clara looked as though she felt the com-
pliment, and well she might; for one was
her affianced husband, while the other was
her only brother.

“ For one, I have great hopes,” she said.
“Toan féel it at heart that we shall go
clear. Bht, as for thanks, I don’t feel that
mine could be of any service to either of
the men,”

“We can arrange that when we get to
Brownsville,” laughed Warren. “TJ think
something different from thanks will be
Ned’s price, and as for me, I only want to
dance the rest of the night.”

“TJ can’t understand riddles,” said Clara,
her face showing that tendency to crimson
which is supposed to indicate a tender state
of feeling.

“Laws, now, Clara,” broke in Fiducia,
“dew tell if this "ere ain’t that spark o’
yourn what has been over to Brownsville so
much! Wal, who’d’a thought from the
looks ©’ the feller he’s sech a gritty one ?
I dew believe, Clara, if he’ll hev’ ye when
ye git old annff, ye’d better take up with
him. But don’t go to bein’ in a hurry, as
most gals be, nowadays. I don’t feel any
inclination tew git married myself, and I’m
considerable nearer his age—that is, I’m
older’n you, you know !”

The truth of the latter assertion needed
no confirmation to any of the party, since
forty years would’ not have seemed at all
an improbable guess at the age of the spin-
ster. Mrs. Duncan turned away her head,
to hide her mortification, while Ned, Olara,
and Warren bit their lips, to keep back the
smile which seemed determined to break
forth.

“Do ye know,” continued the spinster,
bending toward the young scout, and re-
garding him with interest; “do ye know
what I thought when ye first come over to
our town ?”

“JT don’t know,” said Ned, modestly.
“But T must remind you that we are in the
midst of danger, and "twill be necessary to
be very careful of our voices. A word

4

 

THE SCOUT’S VOW.

Indians, and bring them down upon us
with a vengeance.”

“Yis, yis; I know that,” continued Fi
ducia, bending over still further, and speak-
ing in a harsh whisper. “ But I fel that I
didn’t dew ye jestice, and I want tew make
it all right. I did think that ye was rather
an ongaindly upstart, and so I told some o’
the folks there. I told Mr. Brown I thort
he’d better see tew his garl while he could;
but he kinder laffed at me—said he guessed
Clara knew what company was best for her.
But I'll take it all back, now, if we can
ever git among decent people ag’in.”

Being allowed to “ free her mind,” Fidu-
cia finally sunk back satisfied, and the
journey was continued in comparative si-
lence. Their progress was slow, and ag
the river made many windings, the distance
gained was even less than it appeared.
Still, they reflected that every, yard counted
—that every stroke of the oars was so
much toward the completion of their jour-
ney.

Expecting at every moment to be assailed
from one bank or the other, the little party
floated along, till the sun began to sink
behind the trees, Their journey would
occupy at least all the night, if every thing
proved favorable. As they were obliged to
preserve a very constrained position in the

| boat, Ned advised that they come to land,

and havea general frolic, just to rest them-
selves.

All concurred in the proposal, and ad-
mitted that it would bea relief to straighten
their limbs for a few moments, save Fidur
cia, who declared that the Indians would
be certain to gobble them all up, if they
attempted any thing of the kind.

But her counsels did not prevail, and the
boat was drawn in to the shore. The party
landed, and it was indeed a relief to be
freed for a short <ime from their cramped
position.

While they were exercising themselves,
Ned proposed: to take his rifle, and go back
a short distance, to make sure that there
were no signs of pursuit. As usual, Fidu-
cia Scranton had objections to make, plead- —
ing the double danger to himself and to
them; but Ned had learned to keep his
own counsels, and departed upon the pro-
posed errand.

He followed the river back a mile, keep-
ing sufficiently near to observe any move-
ments upon the opposite bank. All was

spoken aloud may attract the notice of the | silence. No sounds or signs of savage foemen

 

ee

 
 

 

>,

about it*before'we go’any nearer toit/’

‘and he’saw what had fixed: his companion’s

A NEST

were to be seen. His heart rose higher
and lighter with renewed hope. They ,
could continue their journey under the: ad- |
ditional’ safeguard: of darkness, and before

morning’ came they would be beyond: any |
possibility of danger. The thought was

more than cheering. It was exhilarating. |
Under its influence le bounded back at a

rapid pace, and arrived! among the’ anxious |
party just’ as the sun sunk from sight:

“Tt is allright in that direction,” he said. |
“ Now: we'll go. aheadj for it will be dark in |
a few minutes, with the exception of what |
light:the moon: gives. Come; in with you, |
‘and ho! for home?! as I heard an old song |
once sutig.” |

They lost no time in getting into’ the)
boat, Warren taking his’place’ at the stern
to steer, and. Ned prepared to use the pad-
dies whenever it-seemed proper, Fiducia
seemed’ especially perplexed that’ she could
not: have an opportunity for sleeping, de- |
elaring, in the roundest terms,. that she
should get drowsy and fall overboard, which
unfortunate catastrophe would be the sad |
finale of her career.

A sly laugh from: Warren, who under-
stood some of her peculiarities, brought'the
spinster bolt’ erect’ upon her dignity, and
sue sat‘in glum silence for a long time.

Meanwhile, the boat was pushed into the
stream, and once more resumed her course.

The light of day gradually declined, and
only the soft rays‘of the moon lighted up
the dark surface ‘of: the water.

They had proceeded for something: like
half an hour, when Ned noticed an: object
in advance which seemed’ to rivet his‘ gaze.
Cautiously he turned! to’ Warren, and whis-
pered:

“ Turn: her head in toward the shore.”

“Ts there danger?” young Brown asked,
as lie ‘obeyed the request. 7

“There: may’ be; or may not. I can’t
say. Just look through yonder,: and: you
can see all I see. But we must know more

Warren looked in'the direction indicated,

attention. There was @ bright gleam through
the trees, so small: that its: scintillations
might! readily be mistaken for’ a’ star; just
rising above the horizon. The youth’com-
prehended, in a moment, the character: of
the light.

“There's a’nest'of ’em,” he whispered.

“Soit seems,” remarked: Ned, “Turn
her into that deep shadow, and I'll take'a |

326 3

 

OF ’EM. 87
trip off in that direction. We mustn’t run
into a trap, if we can’ help it.”

The boat?s head was’ turned in the re-
quired direction, and it’ soon shot into’ the
deep shadow’ of an overhiinging tree. Ned
had cautioned those it contained to especial
silence, given’ Warren directions how to
proceed in case of any disturbance, and wis
about to jump ashore, when’ the’ dip of
oars, and the sound of Indian voices. fell
upon his’ ear:

He’ uttered a quick exclamation’ of cau-
tion, and, with weapons’ in hand; the two
whites awaited the event:

In a few moments’ a' canoe appeared. It
seemed to come from a creek emptying into
the river near by, as’ it: shot out into the
middle’ of the stream, and then turned in
the direction of the strange light. It con-
tained three Indians, who sat bolt) upright
in the middle'of the boat; seeming to fancy
themselves'in no datigér' of! observation.

As they reached tlie’ middle of the river,
one of them raised’ his hand, and pointed
toward the light. The'movement! was ne-
ticed' by’ those in’ the concealed’ boat, espe-
cially Ned and Warren.

“Do-you see that?” the former’asked, in
a careful whisper: ‘They’ are bound! to
that’ camp, without’ any doubt: I must
follow: them; and see what the gathering
is?”

He repeated'the cautions he had: previ-
ously given; then sprung into the forest; and
was lost. to’ sight in’ ai moment. He had
scarcely’ taken a score’ of steps, when’ he
came’ to! a broad! creek; which’ he’ was
obliged to ascend for some distance in order
to find a convenient crossing. Then‘ select-
ing a route which would keep’ him from
‘exposure to the’ moonlight, he followed the
course of the strange canoe as’ nearly’ as
practicable.

He soon caught sight of the: bark, but
felt a sort of satisfaetion’ on finding that
they’ did not!seem in an’ especial '/hurry.- It
was evident that? they ‘bore: no. important
tidings, and this: feeling’ scattered Ned’s
most poignant fear:

The fire was a considerable distance from
the river, and Nedbegan to think that his
boat might have passed in safety, after all.
But he jumped /at'no conclusions. He kept
a watch of the Indian trio, and when they
pulled in to land, he followed carefully a
little distance behind themy

The: secret of! their’ expedition was’ ex+
plained when they lifted'a generous quantity
Pe ee eee

 

4

- of fish from the canoe, and slung them

over their shoulders. Thus laden, they
took their way toward the camp.

The forest in this section was quite open,
so that Ned ran considerable chance of
discovery, should he venture too close. But
there was no occasion for running any great
risks. The savages were moving about
freely, especially after the arrival of their
evening supplies. The scout could not
readily count them, but he set their numbers
down at twenty-five. Probably there were
more than that—possibly a few less.

The savages seemed perfectly unsuspi-
cious of the presence of any foe, talking
freely in their own tongue: and no guards
were set, so far as he could discover.

More than pleased with the state of affairs,
Ned walked down to the river-bank, and
made a general survey of the prospect
there. There was a deep shadow upon the
opposite shore, which would increase rather
than diminish, and under the cover of this
he felt that there would be little danger in
attempting the passage. He looked in
every direction, but saw no more camp-fires,
or other signs of Indians. Possibly, those
who were before him had come down for
a peaceable hunt and fish.

Filled with pleasant thoughts, the brave
young ranger made his way back toward
the place where he had left the boat. He
crossed the creek, and stole down to the
bank. He could scarcely see any thing
between himself and the moonlight which
lay in silvery softness upon the center of
the stream; but he managed to discern the
dark outlines of a boat, and softly whis-
pered :

“ Warren !”

“Ts that you, Ned?” came back the cau-
tious answer.

“Tt’s me—all right ?”

« All right !”

“Then row up a little.”

The boat was pushed nearer the bank,
and Ned sprung on board, to the joy and
satisfaction of those who had felt. so many
fears during his absence.

CHAPTER X
! Danger in the Dark.

‘

A nost of questions greeted the returned
scout, to which he replied in a gentle whis-
per, describing very briefly what he had

 

\
88 THE SCOUT’S VOW.

seen, and the object vhich had brought the
three Indians to the sreek.

The intelligence relieved many well-
founded fears, and caused all the hearts
within the boat to beat more freely. After
he had related the events of his reconnois-
sance, Ned added:

“T would a little rather lay by till after
the moon gits down; but, if we do that, it
will be so near mornin’ that we can’t git
down to the Ohio till noon, and daylight
may find us amongst the Injins. I think
the best way will be to keep in the shade
as much as possible, and run by them ata
venture.”

The others acquiesced in the judgment
of the scout, be it what it might. The
boat was rowed back into the stream, and
the force of the current floated it down to-
ward the point of danger.

Ned busied himself by making a careful
examination of all the fire-arms, which he
reprimed, to make sure of their servicea-
bility in case of need. Then they were
equally divided between himself and War-
ren.

Mrs. Duncan insisted upon being fur-
nished with some weapon, as she intended
to fight till the death before being taken a
prisoner again. Ned furnished her with a
hatchet, and he felt sure she would use it
if occasion presented.

“Massy sakes!” gasped Fiducia, as she
eyed the weapon with horror, “ what in the
world, Mary Ann, be you a-goin’ tew dew
with that awful tommyhock? Now I want
you to remember that this is me, and not
cut my head off, thinkin’ I’m an Injing.”

“Keep that tongue still,’ commanded
Ned, sternly, “or the savages will save her
the trouble by takin’ off all our heads in a
pile.”

It cost the spinster a great effort to sit in
silence, but she crouched down between the
thwarts, eyeing the others with an aggrieved
expression,

As the boat approached the point where —

most danger was to be apprehended, Ned
directed Warren to turn her toward the
shore opposite to that on which the fire
was built. This course, while it removed
them from the moonlight, compelled them
to depend upon their own exertions for
moving the clumsy boat. What current
there was ran near the middle of the river,
and when they shot out into the belt of
shadow, the boat lay like a log upon the
water. i

*

 

 
 

 

 

~ ward it.

Tie.

RUNNING INTO A TRAP.

But any chance would be preferable to
discovery, in their present situation, and
both the young men bent themselves to the
oars with determination. They made slow
progress, as the boat was not only heavily
laden, but built in a clumsy manner, rather
for durability than speed.

They were not quite opposite the place
where the three Indians had drawn their
canoe to land, when the quick ears of the
young scout detected a movement upon the
opposite bank. He uttered an exclamation
of caution, and ceased rowing. Peering
intently across the river, he soon caught
sight of two or three dark forms, gliding in
the direction of the canoe, which lay upon
the bank where it had been left. They
pushed it into the water, sprung in, and be-
gan rowing directly across, toward the
place where the larger boat was lying.

“Keep still!” whispered Ned, intensely.
“We ure discovered !”

There was a general exclamation of con-
sternation ut the announcement, but only
Fiducia gave vent to her feelings in words:

“J knew how ’twould be,” she began, in
tones which might have reached across the
river. “I dreamed—”

“Will you keep still, or shall I throw
you into the river ?” demanded the scout, in
no very gentle tones.

Without waiting for an answer, he bent
over and whispered such directions to War-
ren as he deemed necessary. By this time
the Indians were in the midst of the river,
fully revealed by the moon. There were
turee of them, and their guns could be seen
above the edge of the boat.

They grunted some question as they ap-
proached, repeating it upon receiving no
answer. No sound revealed the position
ot the whites, and the jealous red-men came
on, peering through the gloom, for the boat
which had attracted their attention.

They discovered it at length, and with
weapons in hand, pushed their way up to-
All was ‘still as death—a fact
waich seemed to puzzle the natives. not a
But they worked nearer, and finally

Still the In-
The whites, at

the two craft lay alongside,
diaus could see nothing.

the instigation of Ned, had crouched low,
and the savages could only make out an in-
distinct mass in the bottom of the boat.
The uncertainty was not long to continue.
As the Indians poked their ugly faces ove
the side of the boat, two hatchets flew
throug.

the air, and descended upon a

 

couple of shaved pates. The arms which
wielded them were not feeble, nor the blows
light. Both savages sunk to the bottom of
the river, while the remaining one found
himself in the water by the upsetting of the
canoe, e

The savage was possessed of the natural
craft of his race. He-realized at once that
they had run into a trap, foolishly, and he
dived beneath the surface of the water.
Striking out in the direction of the shore
he had left, the brave swam as far as pos-
sible before rising to the surface. Believing
himself out of danger, he swam along with
all his might.

Ned had been looking for the fellow, and
his quick eye detected him as he rose to
the surface.

“We must take the least of two evils,”
he said, glancing along the barrel of his
rifle. “ That fellow must go under.”

The rifle spoke its death-note. The say-
age uttered a cry, threw up his arms, and
sunk from sight beneath the dark surface.

“Tm sorry to make that noise,” he said,
reloading his weapon hastily, “but that is
better than to have the Injin git away, for
he could tell’em too much. Now we'll
take to the paddles ag’in.”

They did .so, with an energy that soon
got the old boat under tolerable headway.
But such exertions could not always last,
and matters were fast approaching a crisis.
The Indians, around their fire, had heard
the rifle-shot, and came rushing down to
the river, Their own canoe was gone, and
the savages began at once to suspect some-
thing wrong.

They bent eyes and ears to the task of
solving the mystery. At an unfortunate
moment the boat-load of fugitives passed
an opening, when the moonlight revealed
their movements. The savages saw it, and
raised a yell of triumph.

“Down! down !”? commanded Ned, and
the others threw themselves upon the bot-
tom of the boat in obedience.

It was fortunate that they did so, for the:
next moment a scattering volley broke from
the Indians upon the bank. The balls pat-
tered all about, one or two of them. striking
the boat, others falling in the water; but
most of them whistling just overhead, either
striking in the bank, or speeding harmlessly
into the forest beyond.

“Oh, dear, dear, dear !? groaned Fiducia,.
in bitterness of mortal terror,“ ’m hit! I’m
killed! Oh, we shall all be sunk to the

rt

soci

?
 

 

 

 

 

 

 

.

40 THE SCOUT'S VOW.

bottom of the ocean! Dear me! dear me/
DEAR MBE!”

‘Is anybody hurt?” Ned asked, as the
firing seemed to cease for a moment.

None of them had been injured, for a

ewonder, though a small splinter had been the

cause of the spinster’s mortal terror.

The savages seemed satisfied that they
hud effectually silenced the occupants of
the strange boat, and that the only task
which remained was for them to secure the
prize. Accordingly, they began to plunge
into the water to swim across. Ned no-
ticed the movement with satisfaction.

“Let them come !” he exclaimed. ‘ We
are good for a dozen of them, See, the fools
are rushing to their own destruction !”

Five or six of the savages had plunged
in and were swimming over. The river was
deep and narrow, so that in a few minutes
they neared the object of their efforts. They
advanced with boldness, swimming nearly
abreast. When they were within five or
six feet, Ned gave the word, and two mus-
kets belched forth a hostile reception,

Of course, at such close quarters the
shots could not well miss, and two Indians
paid the penalty of their rashness by sink-
ing to the bottom. The others saw their
error now, and turned back with all haste.

The whites reloaded their weapons, and
then bent to the oars with renewed exer-
tions. The old boat pulled like a dead
weight, and their progress was slow ; yet
they would not despair, neither would they
desert the eraft.

*T dew declare !’ began the spinster, “I
don't see why in the created globe you can’t
leave this old crazy thing, and take to the
woods! We shall be tuk, jest as sartin as
¢an be, and all be killed, jest for one man’s
foolishness! For one, I am goin’ off intew
the woods. I ain’t goin’ tew stay here and
be shot at.”

“ No, you won't do any thing of the kind,”
returned Ned, as he pulled away at. the
ours. “ What chance do you suppose a lot
of women and a boy would have in the
woods, in the night, with twenty Injins af:
ter’em? They could swim the river and
track you all down in less than ten minutes.
Be sensible, for once, and let them that are
used to such things manage the red-skins.”

The aggrieved lady sunk back again, mut-
tering something about an “ upstart,” which
nobody took especial pains to hear. Ned
continued his work, keeping an eye upon
the savages across the river.

 

 

They seemed immensely conftsed by ‘the
unlooked-for turn affuirs had taken, and,
running to and fro like so many wild beasts,
lost considerable time, which was improved
to the utmost by the whites.

Suddenly the Indians began to disappear.
Where they went to was not so readily ap-
parent. Not to Jose time in useless speca-
lations, the whites improved every moment
in propelling their slow eraft onward.

They rowed for some time, and no more
signs of the red-men appeared. The more
hopeful began to think that they lad really
given up the contest. The young scout,
who knew the character and habits of the
Indian best of all, felt no such hopes. He
knew they would not .rest till the murder
of their fellows was avenged, or more
braves sacrificed in the attempt. But he
kept his fears to himself, not wishing to un-
necessarily add to the alarm and discomfort
of his fellow-voyagers. If his worst fears
should be realized, that would be time
enough to look at the dark side,

Casting frequent and anxious glances in
the direction they were going, both Ned
and Warren kept a look-out for any danger
which might await them. The latter was
first to espy a glimmer through the trees,
and he called the attention of his companion
to it. “See! there is another fire! We
are going into another nest of them!”

Ned rose to his feet at the discovery, and
regarded the scene attentively. He saw
that, his companion was mistaken in his
conjectures.

“ Worse than that, Warren,” he said.
“Don’t you see that Injins never build up
such fires for their own use? See, they are
piling on brush now. It is to light up the
river, so we can’t pass without givin’ them
a chance to pick us off as they see fit!”

“ By gracious! you are right, as you al-
ways are,” returned Warren. ‘“ What wil]
you do in that case ?”

“JT was thinkin’. It’s sartin we can’t
run down the river and take the risk, be- ge
cause it would be sure to cost us our lives, —
There’s several ways that we can do; we
want to take that that’s for the best.”

There was a profound silence among
those on board the boat, for they felt that
they had reached a crisis. Every eye was
turned toward the young scout, for they
felt that their fate rested with him. He was
‘not long in deciding what course to pursue.

“ We've got to leave the boat for the
present,” he said. “It’s certain ’at we

 
 

 

 

 

*

A LITTLE STARTLED. 4

can’t run by that fire, with the Injins all
around it to shoot us off ‘as ‘they see fit.
We'll try and clear them off first, and if
that can’t be done we shall ‘be obliged ‘to
take another course.” It’s jest possible,
though, they may have sent some of their
kin over to this side. If-you'll wait'a min-
ute I will make snre.”

He sprung from ‘the ‘boat to the ‘shore,
and crept along till he assured himself ‘that
the savages were all gathered about the tire,
waiting the appearance of the boat. Then
he hastened back, drew the boat to the
shore, and assisted the others to land.

Drawing the craft np on the bank, 'so that
no chance might wash it away, he then Jed
the party behind a small swell of land.

“Do you stay here,” he said. “ Lie close,
so that no chance shot will hurt you, while
Warren and me tries a little plan to aston-
ish the natives !”

The river made @ short bend at this
point, and the current ran near the shore
where the savages held possession. Know-
ing that a large canoe, heavily laden, must
pass within a few yards of them, the Indians
had made a fire close to the river, so that
its light might reveal the passage of the
boat perfectly. They were now grouped
around the fire and in the immediate neigh-
borhood, to the number of twenty or more.

The scout led his companion down near
the margin of the the river.
dered how he Was going to proceed, as he
could see no possible way to dislodge the
red-skins, But the other soon opened the
plan he had in view.

* Warren,” he whispered, “just look at
them Injins! Now tell me, whut d’ye s’pose
they would think if three or fou of ’em
should tumble over very nicely, all of a sud-
den! They seem to hev’ forgot that their
fire shows any thing but the river,”

“TL think it might start em up a little,”
said the one addressed.

“Then we will try it! Here is a place

where their balls won’t reach us, and where
~ we can hive a grand sight at them.

Just
cover yourself, and take the musket first,
‘Then the rifle, so that they can conclude
there’s four of us at least !”

The two rangers brought themselves in-
to position, and when they had selected
their men, Ned gave the word, The sav-
ages were looking up-stream, evidently in
momentary expectation of the appearance
of the fated boat. They were a little startled

when» two sharp reports broke from the Op- |

Warren won- |

 

posite bank and one of their number fell
dead, while a second was badly wounded.

Such as had been sitting spiung to their
feet, and all uttered howls of rage. Before
they could collect themselves, two more
deadly reports followed, and another pair
of braves Sunk upon the earth. Those who
had escaped the fearful fate began firing
away at the spot where their enemies
seemed tobe concealed. Several of the sav-
ages ‘fled into the wood, and all wavered.

Ned and Warren quietly reloaded their
rifles, and when this was done they fired
again. As the river was not over a bun-
dred feet in width ‘at this point, there was
no necessity for them to miss their mark.

The Indians seemed to dislike such shoot-
ing trom an invisible foe. They grasped
their fallen braves, and started back into
the forest, howling like demons!

“Tt’s a pity we couldn’t say ‘good-by’ to
em,” remarked Warren, as he rammed down
his bullet. “ But it's no use—they’ve had
enough of buildin’ fires for one night.”

“Tf not they can make the attempt ag’in.
But we'll not wait for ’em. While they
feel reconciled, we will get the boat around
where we can use it again!”

Warren had learned not to ask questions,
so he followed Ned’s lead. They returned
to the women, who had been considerably
frightened by the firing. Their fears fled
ag they saw their brave defenders return un-
injured, and with smiling faces.

“Come, now,” said Wentworth, and he
led the way to the river-bank, far enough
below to be ont of the fire- light.

*Do you stay here till I come with the
boat,” he added. “Make no noise; and
you, Warren, come back to our old stand.
Now Lam going to take the boat down, and
I think T can do it without showin’ myself.
In case the Injins git bold to disturb me
again, do you shoot the first one that shows
his head! T'll give ’em a blast if necessary.”

Leaving his musket with Warren, Ned
hastened to the hoat. Most of the other
bank was revealed by the fire which the In-
dians had kindled, and he felt tolerably cer-
etain that none of them were lurking about,

He pushed the boat into the water, and.

then busied himself for some time in arrang-
ing a counterfeit man of such material as
the limited stores afforded. When coms
pleted and placed in the bow of the boat,
it was sufficiently like a crouching figure to
tempt the shot of an ambitious savage.

By means of a hatchet, the scout found

es
 

 

 

 

 

43 THE SCOUTS’ VOW.

himself enabled to guide the boat as he
wished, without exposing his person at all.
To do this he walked beside it, keeping his
head close to the water. The fire had de-
creased much in brilliance, though it still
lighted up the waters in its neighborhood.

All vontinued silent, almost to Ned’s dis-
appointinent. He saw-the dark barrel of
his companion’s rifle looking across the
river, and he knew it would not speak to a
savage in vain. Gradually the boat crept
into the shadows, and soon reached the place
where the women were waiting for it.

He hastened up and relieved Warren from
his position, and they embarked once more.

“Do you think we have passed the dan-
ger now ?” Clara asked, as Ned pressed her
hand for a moment.

“TI can not say—I hope sv.”

“ But what do you think, Ned? You've
some idea; of course you have!”

“Well, really, Clara, I don’t think that
band will disturb us again. Whether we
run upon another, remains to be seen.”

“Oh, I do think we shall reach the settle-
ments now—we have been so fortunate since
we set out.”

“ Don’t flatter yerself with anything of the
kind,” growled Fiducia. “I expect to be
tuk ag’in, and every bit of my hair stript
off—that’s what I do. I dew believe I
look ten years older this minit than I did
five days ago!”

“No matter, auntie,” whispered Warren,
loud enough for all to hear. “It won't
make any difference—forty or fifty! Old
age is honorable, you know !” —

The youth lost the look of withering
scorn she cast on him, for he took his seat
in the boat so that she sat behind him; but
it had the effect to silence her unseemly
gabble for another interval. ;

Fatigued as the men were by constant
effort and sleepless vigils, they bent them-
selves to the oars again with the same deter-
mination they had exhibited before. After
continuing the exertion dill the sweat ran
down their faces like rain, and hearing no
signs of Indians, Ned resolved to let the
clumsy craft float with the current again.
-He could urge it on by occasional strokes
of the paddles, and the moon had now de-
scended so that it was about equally safe in
the middle of the stream,

The boat was guided from the shore, and

THE

 

soon it floated along without effort on the
part of those it contained. Merely guiding
it in the proper course, the two exhausted
men rested upon their oars, and kept a care-
ful look-out for any signs of the savages.

For once their hopes were realized —their
fears proved ungrounded! Hours passed,
and all was peace along their route., Day-
light came at length, and found them in
safety. «Yet there was still the unvarying
monotony of river and forest. There might
still be danger, for they had not reached
civilization.

Making a short stop to exercise their ach-
ing limbs, the journey was continued, and
in a short time after the sun had risen they
saw the broad Ohio rolling before them. A
flourishing town had grown up at the con-
fluence of the two streams. Here they found
plenty of friends, and their wants were lib-
erally provided for. They were safe at last.

The first inquiry was for news from
Brownsville. It was only known that
it had been attacked, and that a party of
minute-men, organized for mutual defense
against the savages, had gone to the assist-
ance of their friends. Ned and Warren
would have hastened on at once, to learn
the true state of affairs, but they were in-

duced to remain till the following morning, —

and repair their well-taxed energies,

In the afternoon a messenger arrived. He
reported that the Indians had attacked
Brownsville a second time,ust before the
reénforcements arrived. That they had suc-
ceeded in burning one house, but had lost
heavily, and were obliged to retreat. That
they had been followed several miles, and
were still pursued.

This being the state of affairs, the whole
party set out on the following morning, and
reached the half-ruined house in the course
of the day. . Both the Duncans and Browns
were houseless, but they found ample room
in the block-house. All were regarded aa
so many returned from the dead.

Caleb Brown and his wife rapidly re-
covered from their wounds, when again sur-

rounded by those they had mourned as lost, —
The young scout had fulfilled his promise —

—performed his vow! And when, a few
weeks later, he held Clara’s hand in his, and
heard the solemn words pronounced which
made her his own, he felt that the prize had
only been too easily won! *%

’

END,

 
 

 

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59—Iron Hand, Tory Chief.
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69—The Phantom Hunter.
2—Weptonomah.
77-Dusky Darrell.

79—The Red Spy.
82—Montbars, the Scourge.
83—The Tangled Trail.

92. Delaware Tom.

93. The Girl Avenger.
95—Death-D ealer.

96—The Phantom Rider.
98—The Mad Trail-Hunter.
99 —Merciless Matt.
101-The Forest Fiend. |
102-Clyde, the Trailer. |
103-Kenton, the Rayger. |

104-The Hunter Hercules.

107-The Texas Hawks,
108-The Yellow Hunter.
: |
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4—The Backwoodsmen.
13—The Jungle Scout.
15—The Red Foe. :
23—The Prairie Pirates.
26—The Border Scout.
27—The Bandit Hermit.
48—Scarlet Moccasin.
49—Mad Anthony’s Scouts.
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51--The Cannibal Chief.
52—The Skeleton Scout.
538—Thorn path, the Trailer,
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129-The Specter Horseman,
130-Left Handed Pete.
134-The Witch Queen.
135-Wolf-Cap.

136-The Red Hermitess.

 

‘Mammoth Star Novels, 100 Pages Octavo, Illuminated Covers, Ten Cents Each,

180-War-Axe.

181-Redpath, the Avenger,
182-The B ue Brotherhood,
183-The Smuggler.

184-The Trail-Hunter,
185-Pirates of the Prairies,
186-The Trapper’s Daughter

138-Kid Kerly, the Trapper.
139-The Fighting Trapper.
140-Thayendanegea.
141-Black Horse of Prairies
142-The Texan Spy.
143-The Gulf Pirate.

159-The Young Ranger.
160-Tom Wiley.
161-Loyal Heart.
162-Old Nick Whiftfes.

164-The Death Track.
165-The White Wizard.

144-One-eyed Sim.
145-Old Rube, the Hunter.
146-Doblado, the Outlaw.
147-The Red Warrior.
148-The Son of the Sea.
149-The Texan Herdsman.
150-Stung Serpent.
151-Scouting Dave.

152-Arkansas Regulators. Wt) bi

153-The Slaver Captain.
154-The Secret Shot.
155-Mike, the Guide,

166-Hirl, the Hunchback,
167-The Tiger Slayer.
168-Alapaba, the Squaw.
169-The Border Bandits.
170-Assowanm, the Avenger

172-Prairie Flower.

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163-The Gold Gnide.

171-Saui Sabberday, Spy. gv m

173-Mountain Max.

1%)—Long-armed Sampson.
17%6-Red Ralph, the Ranger.

187-Old Tiger. the Patriot.
188-The Sea Bandit.
189-The Bush Ranger,
190-The Outlaw Huiter.
191-Golden Feather. ©
192-California Joe,

93-Bob Brant,
194-The Border Spy.
195-Old Hal Williams.

196-Bushwhacker's Daugh’r |

197-Serveant Slasher.

177-The Giaut Trailer. 198-Old Guess Markham,
157-Border Ben. 178-The Doomed Guide. 199-Crazy Dan.

158-The Black Hunter. 179-The Ranger’s Rifle. 200-Old Ben Manx. * | :

FRANK STARR'S AMERICAN NOVELS are always kept in print, and all back numbers can
usually be oe by news agents; but where any given number can not be found on the |}
news stands, it |

156-Waving Plume.

174-The Silent Rifleman. |
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will be sent to any address by mail, prepaid, on receipt of price—ten cents; |
six months (13 Nos.) $1.25; one year, (26 Nos.) $2.50. Address,

FRANK STARR & 00., Publishers, 41 Platt St., N. Y.