From the rear of Obadiah's home a narrow footway led toward the lake and Nathaniel followed it, now as warily as an animal in search of prey.

For half a mile it took him through the forest and ended at the white sands of the beach.

In neither direction could Nathaniel see a light, and keeping close in the shadows of the trees he made his way slowly toward St.James.He had gone but a short distance when he saw a house directly ahead of him, a single gleam of light from a small window telling him that it was inhabited and that its tenants were at home.

He circled down close to the water looking for a boat.

His heart leaped with sudden exultation when he saw a small skiff drawn upon the beach and his joy was doubled at finding the oars still in the locks.