In a minute they had passed, and our party of adventurers again stood together. There were no sounds to indicate the presence of other foes, so they again set forward. Before the trail-hunters suspected it, they saw, upon glancing toward the eastern horizon, that the stars were paling, and the light-blue tinge, which foreshadows the dawn, already pervaded the sky. As they were now comparatively safe, the three pushed forward with all speed. In half-an-hour the early light of dawn was upon them, and the scout commenced looking about for the trail of the party they sought. To render the search more effectual the friends separated, pushing forward within signaling distance of each other. The dawn was becoming every moment more full, when the brothers heard the signal from Davy. Not doubting that he had discovered the foe, they nerved themselves for conflict. They were surprised to find the scout standing erect, his eyes fixed upon the ground before him. Coming nearer they saw the smouldering remains of a fire, from which small jets of smoke still ascended. It had been a large fire, as much of the wood, partially burned, still remained. “Well, boys, our game’s gone!” the scout remarked, as the others came up. “Here’s where the rascals stopped and took lunch, but forgot the sleepin’ part of it. Bloody murder! why couldn’t we have cum up while they war’ eatin’? Maybe we wouldn’t have gi’n ’em a warm dish.” “Are you sure this is the work of the party we seek?” asked Charles, willing to grasp any hope. “Of course I’m sure,” he returned, half displeased at the question. “An’ if ye were more skilled in yer business ye’d know it without askin’ questions.” “One thing ye must l’arn, boys,” the scout remarked, as he quietly rose to his feet. “That is, allus tew be cool. Take things as they come, and when ye hev a chance tew eat, do it, by all means. I l’arnt that long ago, and ye’ll soon find it the best way. You wouldn’t mind goin’ without anythin’ to eat for a day or two, now, but mind you, ye’d feel it afore this tramp is over with.” Then strapping on his wallet, and looking at the priming of his rifle, Davy once more led the way forward. The trail was broad, for no care had been taken to conceal it—the party having the prisoner in charge feeling no apprehension that any pursuit would take place. They were now obliged to proceed with the utmost caution, as their position was very unfavourable. A secure place having been selected as a rendezvous, Davy departed to reconnoiter the river. The hours dragged wearily away, but it was not till late in the afternoon that he returned. His easy and unconcerned manner at once quieted their anxious fears, while they gathered around, and impatiently inquired the cause of his delay. “Wait till supper’s over, boys, and I hev time tew think. I’m jist a bit puzzled myself, this time.”