Page:Tomlinson--The rider of the black horse.djvu/27

Rh The young Dutchman hastily changed his position and glanced up at the unexpected hail. In a moment he perceived who his visitor was; but though he advanced to meet him, he was still visibly abstracted or troubled as he grasped the outstretched hand.

"How are the vrouw and the babies?" continued Robert, who, in the thought of the rest from his long ride, was once more in high spirits. "Got room and a bed for me to-night?" he added, as he flung himself from the saddle to the ground, and stood holding his horse by the bridle.

"There is room and a welcome," replied the Dutchman slowly, "but"—

"Take me across the river if it is n't all right," interrupted Robert quickly. "I can find a place on the other side"—

"No. Nein. There is room and a welcome. It is not that." Dirck spoke in low tones and almost unconsciously glanced toward the house as he spoke.

"What is it then?"

"There is somebody here."

"Who?" demanded Robert hastily, though he too dropped his voice.

"I do not know. You shall help me say when you see him."