The Colonel was very tired when he at length reached the settlement.
He and Dane were both surprised at the silence which reigned about the
place. They had expected to hear sounds of the rangers and others
making merry over the success of their march against the rebels. But
everything was as quiet as a funeral, causing an ominous feeling to
steal into their hearts. Had anything of a serious nature happened
during their absence? they asked themselves, although they did not
express their thought in words. What was the meaning of those little
groups of men and women talking so earnestly? And why was Davidson
advancing alone to meet them? Something surely was wrong.

As, Davidson approached, they noted the serious expression upon his
face. The Colonel stopped, and with fast-beating heart waited for the
purveyor to speak.

"We have been watching for you," Davidson began. "I am afraid you are
very tired."

"I am somewhat weary," the Colonel replied. "But, tell me, is anything
the matter? What is the meaning of this strange quietness? And why do
you meet us like this?"

"We are anxious about your daughter," Davidson explained. "She has
been missing since last night."

At these words a cry escaped Dane's lips, and he wheeled impetuously
upon his leader. But the Colonel did not utter a sound. His face grew
white as death, and his body trembled. He stared at the ranger as if
he had not heard aright. Then he raised his left hand, and pressed it