Part 32 (1/2)
”No, I shan't desert you, Peck We'll see the thing through together”
”But the Indians ot to run that risk The question is, can you walk at all?”
For reply Peck got up on his feet At first he swayed around a little, but presently steadied hiood for a little distance, captain, but I don't reckon to go into any walking o ahead As soon as you feel played out, don't hesitate to say so”
Captain Moore carried the rifle, hunting-knife, and as left of thethe private lean on his arm In this fashi+on two miles were covered by noon, when they ca tree Peck was pale, and showed plainly that the exertion had done hi I ever did,” he adth It was his will-power alone that had kept hi,” said Captain Moore cheerfully ”Three obble us in the ht”
”They won't be showing the on us----Hark!”
Peck broke off short, and both listened
”So officer ”Coht!”
He took the wounded soldier by the hand, and with all speed the pair crept into so tree In the meantime the foot-steps of the unknown party came closer
As the man came into view, Captain Moore let out a shout which was full of joy
”Hank Leeson! How glad I am to see you!”
The old hunter started around and drew up his gun Then the weapon dropped, and he ran forward
”Captain Moore!” he ejaculated ”Hang lad to set eyes on ye! Who is that with you?”
”Private Peck of Coht with the Indians, and a number of the soldiers were killed”
”The Injuns are on the warpath, along with the desperadoes under Matt Gilroy,” returned Leeson ”I got the word from Sam Benson early thisthe hills, a-lookin' fer you”
”And what ofof them?”
”They are safe at the fort”
”Thank Heaven for that!”
”I see ye'er both of ye wounded,” went on Leeson, as he came closer
”My wound is not et him to the fort Are the Indians or desperadoes around?”