Page:For the Liberty of Texas.djvu/50

42 of several Indians gathered back of some bushes and talking earnestly. Presently the Indians separated, and two of the number walked off in the direction of the river, on the opposite side of the ranch home.

"They are up to something," reasoned the boy, and took up a position on the other side of the loft. From this point he could see a small portion of the river as it wound in and out among the trees and brush. He waited impatiently for the Indians to reappear, and at last saw them cross a glade close to where he and his brother had met the half-breed. As the Indians came out into the open, Hank Stiger met them.

"He will join them now if he wasn't with them before," thought Dan, and in this he was right. The Indians and Stiger held a short talk, and then all three disappeared in the belt of timber surrounding the burn.

"Can you see anything?" called up Ralph.

"Yes, several Indians, and Stiger has joined them."

"Stiger! And what of father?"

"I see nothing of him. Ralph, I am afraid we are in for it this time, and no mistake."

"You think the Indians really intend to attack us?"

"I do."

"Right away?"