were clustered about the store, who gazed with the keenest
interest as the column of relief pulled out of the village. Glen's
eyes kindled with pride and animation as she turned and waved them a
cheery good-by. Then she touched Midnight lightly with her whip, at
which the noble animal leaped forward, up the trail, through the woods,
across the wild meadow, and into the pass. The Indians found it
difficult to keep pace with their young mistress, for Midnight was the
fleetest horse that ever trod a northern trail.

As they advanced, however, it was necessary to travel slower, for the
way was steep and rough, and it was only with considerable care that
the horses could pick their steps. Glen became impatient at this
delay, for the sun was swinging low beyond the far-off mountain peaks,
and she realised that if night overtook them in the hills it would
greatly retard their progress, and perhaps make them too late in
reaching Big Draw.

As they were moving slowly down Crooked Trail, the sky suddenly became
overcast, and then black. Great, threatening clouds were massed
together far up in the hills, and the wind began to draw down the
ravine. It steadily increased in strength, and in a short time a gale
was upon them. Then followed the rain, which struck them just as they
reached the valley. It was one of those sudden mountain storms, the
dread of the most hardened trails-man, and the utter consternation of
the chechahco. Fortunately the wind was in the backs of the
travellers, and the trail was smoother now. Never for a moment did
Glen hesitate, and Midnight responded splendidly to the occasion,
inspiring with courage the horses following. The roar of the wind was
terrific, and the trees bowed like reeds beneath its onslaught. Never
had Glen experienced such a storm on the trail, and most thankful was
she for the riding-cloak which Nannie had placed upon her shoulders.
Her hat had been torn from her head, and her hair was tossed in the
wildest confusion about her face and half blinded her. It was
certainly a strange and weird sight as that slight girl led her
determined band down that valley right through the heart of the storm.

It was difficult now to see far ahead, and Glen had to trust entirely
to Midnight. Not once did the faithful animal stumble or exhibit the
least sign of hesitation. He seemed to realise that much was at stake,
and that everything depended upon his efforts. With ears pointed
strai