It was a matter of wonder with Ellen's family what could keep her and
Hamilton out so late in the evening; and when darkness set in, and they
were still absent, the wonder changed to alarm. Search was instantly made;
they were traced to their resting-place; the evident marks of a scuffle
were visible; and the unanimous opinion of all was that they were in the
hands of Indians. Preparations for pursuit were immediately instituted, and
by daylight next morning, a strong band of armed pioneers, well mounted,
were on the trail of the fugitives, determined to retake the captives, if
such a feat were in the bounds of possibility.
Durant had everything so arranged, that his party need not be subjected to
a moment's delay. Every member of his band, including the prisoners,
expected a vigorous pursuit, and the lovers were not without hope that it
would prove successful. In this hope, they, as far as circumstances and
ability permitted, endeavored to retard the progress of the captors by slow
movements; and Durant was finally constrained to threaten them, if they did
not step with greater alacrity; for he feared they might be overtaken.
At length the hilly banks of the Ohio were reached; the clear waters of
that noble stream lay before them; and between the prisoners and despair,
and no friends in sight to bid them hope! Durant now concluded all was
safe; and the malice of his heart, which the pressure of circumstances had
kept smothered, began again to display itself.
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