Wait here until I go up and rouse them." "Oh, no; I could not stand it to be left alone." "All right; here, take my hand, and we 'll go up together." They were broad wooden steps, leading to a wide porch, the roof supported by heavy columns.

Beyond was the dark bulk of the house, shapeless in the gloom.

We were within a single step of the top when a man--seemingly a huge figure--suddenly emerged from the shadow of a column, and confronted us.
"What ther hell," he ejaculated sullenly, "are you doin' here ?" I paused with foot uplifted, too astounded at the apparition to respond, conscious my companion had shrunk behind.
"Well, speak up!" growled the voice.

"What 's wanted ?" It was not in my nature to fear men, and this was evidently a man.

I could feel the warm blood surge back to my heart.
"You surely startled me, friend," I explained.