When he cautiously raised his head, she had disappeared, and with a sigh of relief, he resumed his line.
The slow, weary hours wore on, and finally the sun was half-way down the horizon.

Hans Vanderbum's heart gave a big throb as he started on his return to the village.

In spite of the exciting drama that was now commencing, and in which he was to play such a prominent part, the most vivid picture that presented itself to him was his irate wife, waiting at the wigwam to pounce upon him, and he could not force the dire consequences of his temerity from his mind.
Slowly and tremblingly he approached the lodge, but saw none of its inmates.

The profound silence filled him with an ominous misgiving.
He paused and listened.

Not a breath was audible.