Page:Cornelia Meigs-The Pirate of Jasper Peak.djvu/162

 something like natural slumber. He waited a long time to assure himself that Edmonds’ breathing was easier and quieter and that he really slept. Then he got up stiffly, mended the fire once more and began to explore the resources of the little  cabin.

In a store-shed behind the one room he found an open window, through which Nicholas had  evidently made his way when he had set out on  his own expedition. He also discovered a can of oil, with which he filled the lantern so that it  could be lit again. The yellow light, falling upon the table, showed him something that he had not  seen before, a note scrawled hastily in pencil on  brown paper.

“John,” it ran, “I have gone for help, but not to Oscar Dansk, because I promised you I would  not. I have gone to the Indian village at Two Rivers and will try to send some one into Rudolm  for a doctor. I will be back before a great many hours. Dick.”

With the letter still in his hand, Hugh sat down beside the fire to try to think the matter out. It