it."

"And leave you, lad? Not while I have breath in my body and a rifle in
my hand. Rest a minute and recover your breath while we welcome those
who follow you so hotly. Martin, get behind yon tree while I hold this
one. Take you the first redskin who appears, and I will deal with the
second. That will at least serve to check them while we can reload.
Steady! here they come."

It was fortunate indeed for Donald that his friend, seized with a
longing for fresh venison, had chosen that morning for a hunt, and,
taking a man with him, had entered the forest. They were not yet a
half-mile from the fort when they met the exhausted fugitive as
described. Now their rifles blazed at other game than deer, and, as
Christie had predicted, the pursuit was checked; for only two had
followed thus far, though within a mile scores of others were ranging
the forest.

The two men instantly reloaded and, without exposing themselves beyond
the sheltering tree trunks, waited a full minute without detecting
further movement or sound. Then Donald begged them to retreat while
there was yet time, and the three set forth for the fort.

As they ran, each of the others passed an arm through one of Donald's,
and the woods being open, they were able thus to make good speed. Even
as they went, Donald could not repress the one eager inquiry that, in
spite of all distractions, was ever uppermost in his thoughts.

[Illustration: Donald and his two companions are pursued by Indians.]

"Edith. Is she safe, Christie?"

"My poor fellow, I know nothing concerning her. I hoped you had news."

"Has Cuyler reached the tort?"

"Yes; and left two days since for Niagara."

"And Edith was not with him?"

"No."

"He knew nothing of her fate?"

"Nothing."

Donald said no more; but his form as supported by the two men became
noticeably heavier, as though it had been suddenly deprived of some
upbearing and stimulating force.

As the three dashed into the little post, which was only garrisoned by
a score of troops, they were none too soon; for, almost at the same
moment, a rattling volley and fierce yelling gave notice that the siege
of Presque Isle was begun. But the garrison was not taken by surprise,
for the shots from the forest had been heard, and half a dozen soldiers
had run out to protect the retreat of the fugitives.

Christie's first attention was given to the friend whose coming had not
only placed the garrison on guard, but