Obed pointed to our prisoner and made his demand. I understood him to
ask for the immediate ransom of Margit, and a supply of salmon and other
provisions to take us on our journey. The chief stood considering for a
while; then spoke to a native boy, who ran to the house; and in a minute
or so Margit herself appeared, with the native woman who had first taken
word of us. She came down the bank, and Yootramaki signed to Obed to
address her; which he did.
"Margit," said he, pointing to the toen, "I believe that in this
scoundrel here God has provided a way out of all our troubles.
We caught him last night, and have brought him along as ransom for you.
But stand close to the water and be ready to jump for the boat if they
mean treachery. Edom and I will see that you come to no harm."
"My dear husband," she answered, very quiet and slow, "I think you are
wasting your time. I am sorry, but I shall not go with you."
Obed turned a dazed look on me, and then, supposing he had not heard
aright, began again--
"Stand close by the water, and jump when I give the word. All may
depend on your quickness--only be bold, my dear. I will explain after."
"But it is I that must explain. I am not going with you: really I am
not."
Obed turned again to me, this time with wide eyes. "God of mercy!" he
cried hoarsely; "her troubles have driven her mad!"
Margit heard.
Pages:
148
149
150
151
152
153
154
155
156
157
158
159
160
161
162
163
164
165
166
167
168
169
170
171
172