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script's prediction of an Indian capture had come true, and |
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She opened her eyes. She was sitting inside a dim cave, leaning against a wall, her wrinkled, filthy dress tucked beneath her. She could hardly breathe in the mustiness. Will and the other soldier, whose name, she'd learned last night, was Paul, sat across from her. Their hands and legs were trussed together. |
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She turned to look for the source of the wordsand there was Mrs. Rafferty. Little Elk, who had been a guest at the inn . . . had it been only a little more than a week earlier? "What are you doing here?" Mariah whispered. |
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"My husband trades with the Iroquois. This is a spot where they often camp in this area." |
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"I'm so glad to see you!" Maybe her salvation would come from another source than Thorn. She glanced around to make certain none of their captors was near. Only one of the Indians was in the cave, at the entrance, looking out. Mariah whispered, "Please, take us with you when you leave." |
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Little Elk shook her head vehemently so that her plaited dark hair flew in ropelike strands. "I am so sorry." Her dark eyes looked infinitely sad. "My husband and son will not interfere, for that would mean no more trade, and danger for them. But when we are next at Thorn's inn, I will make certain he knows who has you. He may be able to track you." |
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Fat chance, Mariah thought, tears of hopelessness flooding her eyes. "Where are we? Is this where these Indians live?" |
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"No, this is but a resting spot. The Iroquois live in long houses some distance away. They have moved recently, though, so I know not exactly where." Her pretty, youthful face was filled with sympathy, but then it brightened. "I nearly forgot. I saw the man Pierce. He was at Harrigan's trading post. He sent a message, should I see you again: He will join you soon." |
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"Pierce?" Where was the slimy worm who'd gotten her into this predicament? Did he know that the real Thorn was |
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