I--I shall be strong again, in a minute." "You must be," I whispered, "for their lives may depend on us." It was a short path before us and became more clearly defined as we advanced.

A sharp turn brought us into full view of the cabin, which stood in a small opening, built against the sidehill, and so overhung with trees as to be invisible, except from the direction of our approach.

We could see only the side wall, which contained one open window, and was a one-room affair, low and flat-roofed, built of logs.
Its outward appearance was peaceful enough, and the swift beat of my pulse quieted as I took rapid survey of the surroundings.
"Sam," I commanded, "you are to remain here with Rene, while I learn the truth yonder.

Yes," to her quick protest, "that will be the better way--there is no danger and I shall not be gone but for a moment." I seated her on a low stump and left them there together, Sam's eyes rolling about in a frightened effort to perceive every covert in the woods, but the girl satisfied to watch me intently as I moved cautiously forward.

A dozen steps brought me within view of the front of the cabin.