Clara, my love,"
and she conducted the almost fainting girl to a seat,
"wait here until I return. The moment is critical, and
my father must be apprised of what we have seen. Unless
the gates of the fort be instantly closed, we are lost."
"Oh, Madeline, leave me not alone," entreated the sinking
Clara. "We will go together. Perhaps I may be of service
to you below."
"The thought is good; but have you strength and courage
to face the dark chiefs in the council-room. If so, hasten
there, and put my father on his guard, while I fly across
the parade, and warn Captain Baynton of the danger."
With these words she drew the arm of her agitated cousin
within her own, and, rapidly traversing the apartment,
gained the bed-room which opened close upon the head of
the principal staircase. Already were they descending
the first steps, when a loud cry, that sent a thrill of
terror through their blood, was heard from without the
fort. For a moment Miss de Haldimar continued irresolute;
and leaning against the rude balustrade for support,
passed her hand rapidly across her brow, as if to collect
her scattered energies.
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