I slipped on the edge of the bank up yonder, and the next thing I knew we were at it.

I can assure you, friend, I supposed myself in the arms of a savage.

You say your name is Burns ?" "Ol' Tom Burns." "What?
It is not possible you are the same who brought a message to Major Wayland on the Maumee ?" "I reckon I am," he said, deliberately.

"An' be you the boy I met ?" "Yes," I said, still doubtful.

"But how came you here ?" "Wal, here's whar I belong.