Green-Mountain freeman. [volume] (Montpelier, Vt.) 1844-1884, 1858-04-01
CHAPTER XXII.
7 HE Assault 7.

CHAPTER XIII
THE ASSAULT.
While Clovis was making his way back to
Sabine sencampment, Hartman and McDermot
were preparing with haste and secrecy for the
approach of the expected aid, and for whatever
events might follow. They secrcted weapons
for themselves Herbert and William Belden,
and, so far as they could, without exciting sus-
picion, they mislaid or impaired such of the
implements of their companions as might be
called in requisition. These purposes were
slowly accomplished because they could avail
themselves only of such occasional opportuni-
ties as were presented when the attention of
Others of the gang was entirely diverted from
themselves. Time passed swiftly away. One,
two, three hours had elapsed since Clovis de-
parture, and Hartman and McDermot We're
consulting earnestly apart, when the dog Sirius
approached, and crouched at the feet Of the
former. Directly he placed his paws on Harri-
mans feet, and looked earnestly in the face of
the latter. Not commanding the attention he
seemed to covet, as Hartman was about to turn
away, the dog placed one foot on his knee and
uttered low, moaning sound.
"What is the matter, Sirius?" said Harr-
man.
The dog sprang on his feet, wagged his tail,
chafed his sides against Hartman s legs, and as
the Litter stopped to coax him ne dropped bit
of paper from his mouth in Harrimans hand:
On it was written the words,
" In twenty minutes-Ready!"
Hartman tore the paper in two parts, and
replaced in the mouth of the dog that on which
the last word was written.
Garry it to Clovis" said he, and the ami
NAL, with his tail between his legs, moved
slothfully away till he had attained distance
almost beyond observation then quitting up
his helm,' he bore away at the top Of his speed
and was soon lost to hearing and sight.
Hartman then FASTENED to his children and
| lulOIlHcu uHCll, dHu w llllull DClutli. VI tHO
near approach of Sabine's party, and the object
of their coming.
The news was altogether unexpected, and as
stimulating as it was unexpected, to all save
Alice. Herbert and William Belden longed
for an opportunity to assert their freedom, and
to disengage themselves from the vulgar and
domineering spirit that had long been exercised
over them at the Retreat. They were not to be
sluggards, therefore, in any enterprise for the
attainment of such an object, and by their
words and action they evinced abundant proof
of that
81 am to be your leader" said Rolph, @ and
when the time comes, and give you the word,
gather with McDermot and me. Till then be
quiet. These eagles's plumes worn in your caps,
are to be your assurance to our friends, and
your protection from all but our foes. Her
bert, my boy, your mothers hopes and Alice's
demand the vigor of twenty arms in your own
to-day"
50 Fear not, my father,' answered Herbert
as, at the sound of the paternal title, William
Beldcn involuntarily placed q hand on the arm
of both father and son GO another passion more
unappeasable to-day than love, is gnawng al
my vitals, and that is, Reuenge."
" Revenge" answered his father.
" Revenge p" said William Belden.
" Revenge! ~ echoed Judith "and Gamma
ye say the like O. that twa, my lassie ;" she
continued, addressing Alice, who sat at a dis
tance pale with fear.
William Belden, whose attention had been
directed to Alice by Judith's appeal advanced
toward her. The timid girl said in u languish-
ing tone, as if half unconscious of what she
uttered,
Pardon and forget
William, elated with the discovery of her re.
lationship, took her hand in his, and warmly
pressed his lips to hers.
&" Pardon, dear lady, daughter of Rolph
pardon this act, :" he said GO but do not forget y
Alice gave him back a smile which seemed tc
imply that the first half of his prayer was
granted, and the remainder postponed for future
considerations
Chilly" said Rolph, in a sharp tone.
Pardon and forget" said William, laugh
ing.
Z" Hush Billy said Rolph. " Hasten tC
the kennel and see if that is made fast Clovis
said he would see to the dogs, but fear that III
spite of him they will do us more harm than
good. Make the entrance fast if you can, and
be quick, for we have not minute to lose"
William went instantly, and when he return.
ed he informed Hartman that the dogs were
all dead or dying Before this news reached
Hartman the sharp crack of a rifle was heard a
few rods within the edge of the woods that
skirted the snaggers' encampment. One of the