The Caldwell tribune. [volume] (Caldwell, Idaho Territory [Idaho]) 1883-1928, 1906-04-14
CHAPTER x

ooonesoorOugh, In which Providence had
made him an actor, called out the latent
powers of his mind and stimulated him
TO prompt and decisive efforts in regard
TO Rosalthe. Immediately after the de-
parture OF Logston, Captain Boone sum-
moned some of the most experienced of
MS little garrison around him, to learn
their respective views in relation to the
course most proper to pursue under ex-
listing circumstances. 1t was finally de-
cided that two or three persons of ex-
perlence should steal quietly from the
fort to find the gentle maiden. Kenton,
bailard and Allan Immediately offered
their services.
Ballard affected to regard our hero
with considerable contempt, for he prid-
ed himself not a little on his skill In
woodcraft, and did not wish to be con-
sldered on level with those less expert
VINO had perchance never followed q
trail or slain an Indian.
II this Ohio fellow goes with us, we
cant expect anything good will be likely
TO happen" he said to Kenton, in a
voice sufficiently loud for Allan to hear
why not? asked Kenton.
He's got no knowledge of these kind
O things. He wouldn't know an Indian
tral from a rabbit path. And as for
rifle shootin', I don't suppose he could
NIT the bigness of man at fifty yards,
In firing as many times"
Perhaps you underrate his abilities. :"
answered Kenton.
mat amt by no means probable!" re-
torted Ballard. I'm called the shrewd-
est reader of human character in Ken
lucky. l don't often make mistakes in
them kind Of
quiet to be anything; he's got no cour-
age, and If he has, he hasn't skill enough
TO follow trail. AS sure as he goes.
somethin' will break"
Quiet your apprehensions, sir" said
Allan, approaching the scout. "Do your
own duty, and If I fail to discharge
mine, the blame will not be attributed
to you"
That's all very WE'LL" replied Ballard
unabashed. Eve heard people talk inst
so afore. and then be off in the time of
danger" !.
Come, Ballard, don't be hard: you'll
wound the young mans feelings" inter
posed Kenton.
"Ugh! exclaimed Ballard, initiating
the short, cultural sound peculiar to the
Indian tribes II reckon his feelin's
amt much finer nor mine nor yours, I
ein't disposed to put my reputation on
level with green hand like him."
The cool contemptuous manner and
insulting language of the spy thoroughly
aroused the indignation of Allan. Keep
Ing down, with strong effort, the feel
ings of wounded pride and Impotence
that were ranking within, he stepped
forward and laid his hand upon Bal
lards shoulder, and closing it until the
fingers seemed sinking into the flesh, said
in hoarse whisper:
Cease this foolish bravado; or, IL YOU
must quarrel, wait until we are outside
the fort, when we will settle it like men,"
Inc features of the scout grew pale
ana then flushed with anger; he threw
savage look at Norwood, and grasped
the handle of his hunting knife. Simon
henton Instantly seized Billiards. arm.
and Wrenched the weapon from his hand
Are ye madmenW cried Boone, who
appeared at that moment, and saw what
was taking place. what means this?
why are ye wrangling? Is there not
hghting enough to be done, without cut
ting each others throats7 Ballard. You
are always too fast. Your Immature will
cost your life, ultimately; but will risk
this young man with you. No more de-
lay-off with you, and do the best you
can"
Everything being In readiness, the gate
was opened, the trio took leave of their
friends, and left the fort, followed by
the prayers and good wishes of all who
remained.
They proceeded down the river, the
scout leading the way In sullen and ON
nous silence. 1t was evident that he
mad not recovered his temper He fully
resolved as he strobe on, that Allan
should not accompany them, but return
to Boonesborough, or dispose Of him
SELF In any other manner he saw at.
with lowering countenance, and deter
mined air, he stopped, and returning TO
kenton, addressed him as follows:
You've heerd my opinion about that
young chap from Ohio, and mean to
abide by 1t, and act up to 1t. He may
go any way he pleases, and do what
he pleases. but he can't go with me-
that's settled"
This Is folly" exclaimed Kenton. "I
will vouch for Mr. Norwood's courage
and address"
well, If you like him, you can 20
with him, and we'll part company" Ne
turned the scout, doggedly.
Allan had gained sufficient knowledge
of Billiards. character to enable him
to understand that prompt and decided
action was required.
You have seen ft," said Allan, 'to
insult stranger In a manner that Ia
objectionable, nevertheless, I will bear
no malice, If your conduct In future be
such as one man expects, in decency,
from another. If you wish to be on
friendly terms, I am ready and willing;
but Ii, on the contrary, you wish to
fight, you win not find me unprepared."
''You look like itp' was the laconic
rejoinder.
You are unreasonable" demonstrated
Kenton, In a milder tone.
We'll part company" added the
scout.
The scout being naturally of a very
obstinate disposition, 1t was impossible
to change his determination; according
~ he shouldered his rife and walked
away, thinking, doubtless, that Kenton
would follow him; but In this he was