The rescue of that unknown captive was a more urgent duty.
She was running towards the burning house, when she heard a horse galloping on the road leading from the gate.

She stopped, hoping that this was the arrival of the doctor; but a familiar voice called to her, and in another minute her father had dismounted and was close at her side.
"Thank God you're safe, lass!" he exclaimed, with some warmer touch of paternal feeling than he was accustomed to exhibit.

"Our men saw the fire when they were going to their work, and I came across directly.

Where's Steph ?" "Under the trees yonder, very much hurt; I'm afraid fatally.

But there's nothing we can do for him till the doctor comes.