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He is scarcely conscious of what is going on about him. Peter knows, and Tonepah," with a wave of her hand into the dark shadows. "They are with you, then keeping guard over him?" "Yes; they have known from the beginning; not everything, of course, for that was not necessary. Peter is an old servant, silent and trustworthy.
My horse started to bolt, but his rein was gripped, and then a third figure, mounted, rode into the range of my vision. "Search him for weapons, Tonepah," said a boyish voice briefly. "There are pistols in the saddle holsters, but he may have others. Then tie him up as quick as you can." There was no mistaking my captors the young dragoon lieutenant, and the three who had escaped with him.
I want Tonepah with me. All ready? We'll take the east road." Some one struck the horse, and he plunged forward, swerving sharply to the right in response to the strong hand on his bit. I swayed in the saddle, but the bonds held, and we went loping forward into the night.
She was saving my life, and she had it in her power, by the mere speaking of a word, to betray me to those who would take the papers from me by force. Without a word I took them from an inner pocket, and gave them to her. The red lips smiled, the blue eyes brightening. "Tonepah shall leave within the hour," she promised, thrusting the small packet into the bosom of her dress.
"He is not here," he explained slowly. "Both Peter and Tonepah were sent away to find a surgeon, and have not returned. We anticipated no danger here with Captain Grant present."
In the silence one of the horses neighed, and the boy seemed to straighten in his saddle, glancing suspiciously about. "Ride ahead slowly, Tonepah," he ordered. "I'll catch up with you." He turned back toward me. "Who are you, anyway?" Surprised at the unexpected question, my first thought was to conceal my identity.
I wish I might be clothed in my own proper dress, but with Peter and Tonepah on guard, Captain Grant alone is not dangerous. Besides I wish to learn his purpose in seeking to join us." She hesitated. "You must not fear for me, but but I wish to tell you all, and and I am sure I shall need your help." "You mean I am to join you again at Elmhurst?" "Is that asking too much?"
Then a negro's voice spoke, and the front door opened, disclosing two figures, one with sputtering candle in hand. The two exchanged a dozen words before the lieutenant asked impatiently: "Is it all right, Tonepah?" The taciturn Indian made no attempt at speech, but gave an expressive gesture, and the young officer turned in his saddle.
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