"Short rifle shot away. Once past this party, and the way is easy. Here is my thought Barbeau. There is no firing, and this party of wolves are evidently hidden in ambush. They have found the trail, and expect some party from the fort to pass this way." "Or else," said the other thoughtfully, "they lie in wait for an assault at daylight--that would be Indian war." "True, such might be their purpose, but in either case one thing remains true--they anticipate no attack from below. All their vigilance is in the other direction. A swift attack, a surprise will drive them into panic. 'Tis a grave risk I know, but there is no other passage to the fort." "If we had arms, it might be done." "We'll give them no time to discover what we have--a shot, a yell, a rush forward. 'Twill all be over with before a devil among them gets his second breath. Then 'tis not likely the garrison is asleep. If we once get by there will be help in plenty to hold back pursuit. 'Tis a desperate chance I admit, but have you better to propose?" The soldier stood silent, fingering his gun, until De Artigny asked impatiently: "You have none?" "I know not the passage; is there no way around?" "No; this trail leads alone to the fort gate. I anticipated this, and thought it all out as I came along. In the surprise at the first attack, the savages will never know whether we be two or a dozen. They will have no guard in this direction, and we can creep almost upon them before attempting a rush. The two in advance should be safely past before they recover sufficiently to make any fight. It will be all done in the dark, you know." "You will go first, with the lady?" "No; that is to be your task; I will cover the rear." I heard these words, yet it was not my privilege to protest. Indeed, I felt that he was right, and my courage made response to his decision. "If this be the best way possible," I said quietly, for both men glanced questioningly at me, "then do not think of me as helpless, or a burden. I will do all I can to aid you." "Never have I doubted that," exclaimed De Artigny heartily. "So then the affair is settled. Barbeau, creep forward about the bank; be a savage now, and make no noise until I give the word. You next, Madame, and keep close enough to touch your leader. The instant I yell, and Barbeau fires, the two of you leap up, and rush forward. Pay no heed to me." "You would have us desert you, Monsieur?" "It will be every one for himself," he answered shortly. "I take my chance, but shall not be far behind."