It had in it a quality that made Robert shudder.
"Your guesses are good, Dave," said Black Rifle.

"About fifty men of the Pennsylvania militia are in camp on the banks of a little creek two miles from here.

They have been sent out to guard the farthest settlements.

Think of that, Dave! They're to be a guard against the French and Indians!" His face contracted into a wry smile, and Robert understood his feeling of derision for the militia.
"As I told you, they're in camp," continued Black Rifle.

"They built a fire there to cook their supper, and to show the French and Indians where they are, lest they miss 'em in the darkness.