he others, a scare."

"No doubt of that, and Kenton's performance has had a good deal to do
with it, for he upset our people completely."

"We must take instant advantage of this diversion, which is
providential; let us go to your friends at once."

The missionary set off with young Ashbridge at his side and Jethro
Juggens immediately behind them. A few brief, hurried steps took them to
the group, whose members were beginning to regain a part at least of
their senses.

It was no occasion for Mr. Finley to indulge in any pleasantry at the
expense of his old friend, Simon Kenton, however appropriate it might be
at another time. His words were grave, quick and prompt, as were
becoming. He hurriedly shook hands with Boone, Kenton and the rangers,
to all of whom he was well known and by them held in high esteem. He
greeted the others warmly in turn, using his tongue while doing so.

"The appearance of the flatboat is so strange that it gave you all a
good scare, and no wonder that it did so. It has produced the same
effect upon The Panther's party, else they would not have allowed us to
land or permitted this passing back and forth; but like you they will
soon recover from it; one must use this opportunity, so providentially
placed in our way."

"That's the right kind of talk," remarked Kenton, who was already
humiliated at the part he had played a short time before.

"From what Jethro told me, you have little, if any, luggage with you."

"Only what we can carry in our hands," replied Mr. Altman.

"So far as I can judge, you are all gathered in this spot--a thing you
would not be permitted to do but for the fright of the Indians. Follow
me then; I will lead the way."

Less time than would be supposed was occupied in this broken
conversation. As stated, the words of the missionary were quickly
uttered, and he showed his promptness by wheeling about and moving down
the gentle incline toward the river. It seemed strange for him to take
the lead of a party of rangers, among whom were Daniel Boone and Simon
Kenton, but his leadership was only for the moment, and could have been
assumed by Jethro Juggens himself, for it signified an advance only to
the flatboat itself.

Boone, with several quick strides, placed himself beside the preacher.

"Have a care," he continued. "I don't understand what makes the varmints
so quiet."

"Because they are scared, as all of you were by the flatboat and its
sail."

"The only one