"
"Nay, not exactly that, but still involving a good deal.
Tell me frankly, Elmsley, has Miss Heywood heard any
further account of the events at the farm-house?"
"She has heard the report brought in by Nixon and the
rest of the fishing-party."
"And what was that, I pray you?" eagerly returned the
ensign.
"That Mr. Heywood had been carried off by the Indians."
"From whom did she hear it?"
"It was I who told her, on the strength of what the
corporal reported, not only to myself, but to Captain
Headley."
"You are a considerate fellow, Elmsley," said his friend,
warmly pressing his hand. "I thank you for that, and now
that the great question, as you term it, is answered, I
am quite ready for the promised breakfast. Did these
fellows bring home any fish? I have a great fancy for
fish this morning."
"No; they brought home dead men," and the lieutenant
looked searchingly into the face of his companion, dwelling
on every word, moreover, as if he would convey that he
(Ronayne), knew perfectly well what freight the boat had
brought to the Fort.
Further remark was prevented by their arrival at their
destination--the front-door being open, and revealing
the little party within.
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