Page:A Colonial Wooing.djvu/214

 "Step over the rail and let me help thee. Quick; step anywhere!"

"But, John."

"Step quick; they're coming." And Ruth was as much drawn over the boat's stern as she moved by her own volition; and when her hands loosened their hold on her step-father's boat, she sank helplessly into the bottom of the canoe.

"Courage, dear," whispered John; "do not give way now, or all may be lost." But his words were lost upon Ruth.

"Who's there?" sounded a rough voice, and the boat's light was held up as if to cast a glow upon the water.

John made no reply, but with a powerful stroke of the paddle made towards shore.

"Speak, or I'll shoot!" cried the same rough voice.

"Then you may shoot a woman," John replied in an unnatural voice; and lifting the pole carefully, the coat fell from it, and to his inexpressible thankfulness the little lantern showed a gleam of light. Steadying the canoe, he held it out at arm's length,