aylight, it's time
I got some sleep."

Stephen resumed his place on the bed, and Walter followed his example,
but not to rest.

He had believed himself free from all pursuit while he remained in the
forest; and during the past hour had been shown how vain was that idea.

The stillness of the night, the soothing sounds of the foliage, moved
to and fro by the gentle wind, soon lulled him to sleep, despite his
anxiety; and when he next opened his eyes the sun was shining directly
upon him through the leaves; but neither Sewatis nor the prisoner could
be seen.

Walter leaped to his feet, searched to and fro several moments in vain,
and then found a trail leading eastward across the river.

Sewatis had returned to his own tribe, and with him had gone, however
unwillingly, James Albert and the warrant for the young messenger's
arrest.

CHAPTER VI

SEWATIS

Stephen was naturally surprised when, on being awakened, he was
informed of the departure of Sewatis with the prisoner; but he did not
regard it as a matter of any very great importance, save as it
indicated that the disreputable half-breed would not probably be seen
in Portsmouth again.

"Most likely Jim Albert did some wrong to the members of Sewatis's
tribe, and that is why the old fellow hung around here, waiting for
just such a chance as he finally got. I don't see why we should trouble
our heads about it."

"I am sorry Sewatis has gone. In addition to being of great assistance
to me, he was a companion, and now I shall be entirely alone."

"In that way it has worked you an injury," Stephen replied, carelessly;
"but on the other hand, you need not fear the half-breed will hunt you
down again in behalf of Sam Haines, which is more than a fair off-set."

Walter made no reply; a sensation of utter loneliness such as he never
before experienced had come over him, and he would have been better
pleased to know James Albert was seeking an opportunity to arrest him,
providing that by such a change in the situation of affairs Sewatis had
remained.

It was useless to give words to his troubles, however, and he did his
best to appear contented, lest Stephen should carry to his mother the
report that her son had lost courage.

Walter prepared the morning meal; Stephen did full justice to it, and
then made ready to take his departure.

"I will come again within a week or ten days. What shall I bring?"

"Powder, if you can buy it for me on credit."

"