He would lead Hawley's horse quietly through the water, and they could mount on the other shore.

This plan settled, he went at it swiftly, riding the captured animal while rounding up the others, and fastening the three to stunted trees on the opposite bank.

Everything within the cabin remained exactly as he had left it, and he briefly explained the situation, examining Hawley's bonds again carefully while doing so.
"He'll remain there all right until his men find him," he declared, positively, "and that ought to give us a good six hours' start.

Come, Miss Hope, every minute counts now." He held her arm, not unconscious of its round shapeliness, as he helped her down the rather steep bank through the dense gloom.

Then the two men joined hands, and carrying her easily between them, waded the shallow stream.