The Indians were drifting over rapidly to the side of the Americans, and every day showed that the French could not long be kept quiet.
Hamilton sat for some time after Helm's departure, thinking over what he now feared was a foolish mistake.

Presently he buckled on Alice's rapier, which he had lately been wearing as his own, and went out into the main area of the stockade.

A sentinel was tramping to and fro at the gate, where a hazy lantern shone.

The night was breathless and silent.

Hamilton approached the soldier on duty and asked him if he had seen Captain Farnsworth, and receiving a negative reply, turned about puzzled and thoughtful to walk back and forth in the chill, foggy air.
Presently a faint yellow light attracted his attention.