The firing now became desultory, occasionally intermingled with heavy
volleys. Both of the fugitives were standing, listening with much
anxiety, when a man, armed with a musket, was seen stealing towards
them, under the shelter of the cedar bushes, that partially covered the
hill. Henry first observed this suspicious-looking stranger, and
instantly pointed him out to his companion. Birch started, and certainly
made an indication of sudden flight; but recollecting himself, he stood,
in sullen silence, until the stranger was within a few yards of them.
"'Tis friends," said the fellow, clubbing his gun, but apparently afraid
to venture nearer.
"You had better retire," said Birch; "here are rig'lars at hand. We are
not near Dunwoodie's horse now, and you will not find me an easy
prize to-day."
"Damn Major Dunwoodie and his horse!" cried the leader of the Skinners
(for it was he); "God bless King George! and a speedy end to the
rebellion, say I. If you would show me the safe way in to the refugees,
Mr. Birch, I'll pay you well, and ever after stand your friend, in
the bargain."
"The road is as open to you as to me," said Birch, turning from him in
ill-concealed disgust. "If you want to find the refugees, you know well
where they lay."
"Aye, but I'm a little doubtful of going in upon them by myself; now,
you are well known to them all, and it will be no detriment to you just
to let me go in with you.
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