It was a trying situation. The brave woman, who had passed through
many dangers with her husband, knew what a visit from the Tories
and Indians meant; but she shrank from leaving Wyoming, and all
her friends and neighbors.

"When will they come?" she asked; "will it be in a few weeks or in
a few days?"

"Getting ready now; Brandt with Iroquois--Butler with Tory--
soon be here."

"But do you mean that we shall all go with you tonight?"

The Delaware was silent for a few seconds. His active brain was
busy, reviewing the situation.

"No," he finally said; "stay here till Omas come back; then go with
him--all go--den no one be hurt."

"Very well; we will wait till you come to us again. We will take
good care of Linna."

And without another word the Delaware turned once more, strode to
the forest, which was then in fullest leaf, and vanished among the
trees.

Mrs. Ripley walked slowly back to the door. On the threshold she
halted, and looked around again for her absent boy. It was growing
dark, and she began to feel a vague alarm for him.