Walter nodded familiarly to Haines, but paid no attention to the Indian.

"Wait a moment, Master Neal," the former said, gravely, as Walter
attempted to pass him. "Where are you going that you cannot stop for a
short converse? "

"On business which admits of no delay."

"Do you expect to walk from here to Boston before daylight?"

"Who said I was going to Boston?"

"Perhaps I guessed as much."

"Then kindly guess that I can't wait here simply for the pleasure of
talking with Master Haines."

"I shan't try to do that, my rebellious friend. When Jim gets ready---"

Walter half turned to see what part the Indian was to play in this
interview, and as he did so the fellow's arms were around him, pinioning
his own to his side.

"What is the meaning of this?" he cried, angrily, as he tried in vain to
release himself.

"It means, Master Neal, that I wish to see the message you carry," and
Haines, dismounting, hastily searched the prisoner's pockets.

"You have found yourself mistaken as sadly as when you believed the king