"And a great many other things besides, as you will soon know," continued the other, coldly; "but let me explain. For reasons which it is unnecessary to mention, I had deep interest in making acquaintance with two new arrivals in this country, you, sir, and Mr. George Clinton. My plan of introduction was rough. My wound, which I inflicted on myself, and which is only a scratch, deceived you all. I am now personally acquainted with you both, and I am delighted. Still, things looked ugly for me--but what is the use of a battle in which half of us would be massacred? I want nothing of the kind. I have important business to transact and must go. In this instance I count wholly on you." "On me, sir! By what title?" "I cannot explain. I have promised to restore Evening Dew, and I will keep my promise. Just now she serves as a hostage. She is treated with the utmost deference and respect. Now let me pass at once. Delay is useless." "But, sir--can I--" stammered Oliver. "Save an outlaw, a man with a price on his head!" said the other, bitterly; "But I am not what I seem. One day--" But Oliver was thinking, and, after some minutes of reflection, said, "It shall be as you wish." "Thank you; and now away to your friends and take George Clinton with you," said the captain. Oliver went out with the young American and soon returned. "You are free to return with your companions," he said, on re-entering the hut; "I give you my word." "Farewell until we meet again. We part friends." "I have no hatred against you, but I sincerely hope we shall never meet again." "It shall be as Providence wills," was the reply. Five minutes later the outlaws were galloping away, and soon disappeared in the darkness. "Who is this man?" murmured Oliver, sadly; "Is he one of those enemies who pursue me everywhere?" At that moment his friends came up and his thoughts went into a different channel. Still he did not easily forget his interview with that extraordinary man, who seemed to know him, and by whom he was really fascinated. CHAPTER XIV. SAMUEL AND JOSHUA. After leaving George Clinton, Samuel Dickson went at once to the residence of his brother Joshua. The sun was still high in the heavens when he reached the settlement; his brother was in sight, galloping towards him. "Come along," he cried, shaking hands; "I was so impatient to see you, I really could not wait any longer." "I hope there is nothing wrong, brother," said Samuel. "Nothing at all. Everything is going for the best." "I am glad to hear it. I was rather uneasy." "I am sorry to hear that. But why are you so late?" "I had to go on a small journey. There was no hurry." "You are wrong, Sam. But here you are, and all is well. But had you come sooner it would have been better." "Well, here I am, so out with the news." "I have to speak of important things, and I have to ask your advice, who are wisdom itself."