Heppner gazette. [volume] (Heppner, Morrow County, Or.) 1892-1912, 1906-03-15
CHAPTER X.

SAeCullOu Vi llS puTpOSeS. uc c'SA'S -
Boonesborough, 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 Rosathe. Immediately after the de-
parture of Logston, Captain Boone sum,
moned some of the most experienced OF
his 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'
perence should steal quietly from the
fort, to find the gentle maiden. kenton
Ballard and Allan Immediately offered
their services
Ballard affected to regard our hero
with considerable contempt, for he prid-
ed himself not little on his skill in
woodcraft, and did not wish to be con-
sidered on level with those less expert
who had perchance never followed a
rrail or slain an Indian.
"1f this Ohio fellow goes with us, we
can't 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
trail from a rabbit path. And as for
rifle shootin', don't suppose he could
hit the bigness of man at fifty yards,
In firing as many times"
Perhaps you underrate his abilities, "
answered Kenton.
THAT amt by no means probable.' re-
torted Ballard. I'm called the shrewd-
est reader of human character in Ken
tucky. | don't often make mistakes in
them kind of matters. The chap is too
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,
somethn' will break"
Quiet your apprehensions, SIR" said
Allan, approaching the scout. do your
own duty. and if l fail to discharge
mine, the blame will not be attributed
TO you
That's all very WELL" replied Ballard
unabashed. "Tve heard people talk just
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 feeln's
amt much finer nor mine nor yours. I
e'n't disposed to put my reputation on
level with a 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 impatience
that were ranking within, he stepped
forward and laid his hand upon Bal
lard's shoulder, and closing it until the
fingers seemed sinking into the flesh, said
in hoarse whisper:
Cease this foolish bravado; or, if you
must quarrel, wait until we are outside
the fort. when we will settle it like men,"
The features of the scout grew pale,
and then flushed with anger; he threw
q savage look at Norwood, and grasped
the handle of his hunting knife. Simon
Kenton instantly seized Billiards. arm,
and wrenched the weapon from his hand
Are We madmen" cried Boone who
appeared at that moment, and saw what
was taking place. What means this?
Why are ye wrangling? Is there not
fighting enough to be done, without cut
ting each others throats? Ballard, you
are always too fast. Your Miniature will
cost your life. ultimately; but | will risk
this young man with you. No more de-
lay-off with you, and do the best yod
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
inous silence. 1t was evident that he
had not recovered his temper. He fully
resolved as he strode on, that Allan
should not accompany them, but return
to Boonesborough. or dispose Of him
self in any other manner he saw ft
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 l mean to
abide by it, and act up to it. He may
go any way he pleases. and do what
he pleases. but he can't 60 with me
that's settled"
This is folly" exclaimed Kenton. 81
will vouch for Mr.. Norwood's coura ge
and address"
well, if you like him, you can go
with him. and We'll part company" re-
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 fit" said Allan, "to
insult a stranger in a manner that Is
objectionable. nevertheless, l 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, / am ready and willing
but If, on the contrary. you wish to
fight. you will not find me unprepared."
You look like itv' 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 very
obstinate disposition, II was impossible
to change his determination; according
ly he shouldered his rife and walked
away. thinking. doubtless. that Kenton
would follow him; but In this he was
mistaken; Kenton remained with Allan.
Let him CO." be added; hes In one
OF bis contrary moods. and won't listen
4 Aarr H.