Linna's Woodcraft

No one could have looked into the face of Ben Ripley without seeing
he meant just what he said.

Jabez Zitner supposed, when he made known that he intended to take
the little Delaware girl with him as a hostage, that though it might
be displeasing to the Ripleys, they would not dare object; but he
was mistaken.

The lad was sitting furthest away on the fallen tree, with his
rifle resting across his knees, when he warned the man that if he
laid a hand on Linna he would shoot him.

Ben spoke low, but mingling with his words were two faint clicking
sounds. They were made by the hammer of his rifle, as with his
thumb he drew it back ready for use. His face was slightly pale,
but his eyes glittered, and he rose to his feet and looked at the
startled man.

Mrs. Ripley gave a gasp of fright and clasped her hands, while the
children mutely stared.

Even Zitner was silent. He knew Ben's pluck, but did not believe it
would take him thus far, for it looked as if there were two adults
against a single boy.

Burwink however, was more of a man than his companion. He looked
smilingly at Ben and said--"Jabez, I reckon this has gone far
enough."

"What do you mean?'" angrily asked the other.

"You must leave the little gal alone."

"Oh, thank you! thank you!" exclaimed Mrs. Ripley. "I might have
known you would see that right is done."

Zitner had a few sharp words with his friend, but the latter was
immovable. He would not listen to his proposition, and that ended
the matter.