And mind, not a word of this," pointing to the demolished coffin, "to any one," and putting spurs to his horse, he galloped off in the direction of the quarter.
But presently catching sight of the still smoking embers of the Ion school-house, he drew rein for an instant with a sudden exclamation of surprise and regret.

"The wretches, what will they do next?
burn our houses about our ears ?" and sighing, he pursued his way.
Indignant anger, and tender pity and compassion filled his breast by turns, on reaching the quarter and discovering the state of things there; worse even than Park's report had made it.
He rode from cabin to cabin inquiring into the condition of the inmates and speaking words of pity and of hope.
Finding several badly bruised and cut, and others suffering from gunshot wounds, he sent to the house for lint, salve and bandages, and directed a lad to run to the stables, saddle a horse; and go immediately for Dr.
Barton.
"De doctah ober to Ion now, sah," returned the boy, "debbils dore las' night, too, sah." "Run over to Ion, then, and ask the doctor to come here when he is through there," said Mr.Leland.
Mr.Travilla came with the doctor and the two planters compared notes, in regard to damages, Mr.Leland also telling the story of the coffin laid at his door.
"What do you intend doing ?" asked Mr.Travilla.
"Inclination says, 'Stay and brave it out;' but I have not yet fully decided.

I have invested all my means in this enterprise, and have a wife and family of helpless little ones to support." "That makes it hard indeed; yet I fear your life is in great danger.

But come what may, Leland, I stand your friend.

If you should be attacked, fly to Ion; you will find an open door, a hearty welcome, and such protection as I am able to give.