Page:The trail of the golden horn.djvu/275

Rh out the cold, he stood for a few seconds peering keenly before him, accustoming his eyes to the dimness within. Marion could see him plainly, and how big and powerful he appeared. What a tower of strength he seemed to her just then. He was heavily hooded, and the frost hung thick upon his beard and eyelashes. Never was she more delighted to see anyone, and she hurried quickly toward him.

“Oh, father,” she cried, “I am so glad you have come. Is the doctor with you?”

“Yes, he is here safe and sound. He is looking after the dogs, so will be in presently. How is the missionary?”

“Much better, I believe. He has regained consciousness. But tell me, how is Tim, Zell’s lover?”

“Oh, he’s getting along great, and should be well in a few weeks. The doctor got there just in the nick of time. My, he did a clever piece of work.”

Hugo had scarcely finished speaking when with a great cry of joy Zell darted from her bedroom, and rushed toward the trapper. She had slept fully dressed so as to be ready should the doctor arrive in the night. Her eyes were shining and her face beaming with joy. Hugo looked at her with admiration.

“Well, bless my heart!” he exclaimed. “This doesn’t look like the little girl I left so sick but a few days ago.”

“Is Tim really better?” Zell asked, unheeding his comment. “Say it again.”

“Yes, he is better, thanks to the Good Lord and the doctor. But he needs something yet to make the cure complete.”

“And what is that?” Zell almost breathlessly inquired.