What I want to say is to put you on your guard against the baddest man on the river." "I am aware of that," answered Alfred.

"I knew his record at Ft.
Pitt.

What would you have me do ?" "Keep close till he's gone." "That would be cowardly." "No, it wouldn't.

He'd shoot you from behind some tree or cabin." "Well, I'm much obliged to you for your kind advice, but for all that I won't stay in the house," said Alfred, beginning to wonder at the hunter's earnest manner.
"You're in love with Betty, ain't you ?" The question came with Wetzel's usual bluntness and it staggered Alfred.

He could not be angry, and he did not know what to say.