Vesey declared it as his belief that you would be discovered not far from his burned home, so as soon as they left I mounted my best horse and started to give you warning." "I appreciate your kindness, Hawkridge; how did you know the right direction ?" "I knew the course to Vesey's ranch, and was speeding that way when I caught sight of you and Sterry on the top of this hill.

I took a squint through my glass, was pretty sure who it was, and then came like mad.

I didn't suspect it was you though, Mont, until I almost ran against you." "Did Vesey say anything about me ?" asked Sterry, with a meaning glance at the captain.
"He said you had acted like a white man in some dispute, but he didn't give the particulars and I didn't question him.

He is intensely bitter against the captain and his party, and declares that not one of them shall get out of the country alive; and, captain, Duke Vesey is a man of his word." "Then I suppose I may consider myself disposed of," replied Asbury, with a laugh.
"Not as bad as that, but it depends upon yourself." "What do you advise ?" "Start southward at once with your men; if you meet the Texans and their friends, join them if you choose; it will make their strength so much the greater, and they need it all.

If you fail to meet them, keep on till you cross the Platte and strike Fort Fetterman.