I pet a dollar, py
shimminy, dot der men haf der gekommt."
He pointed through the brake to a long, low building that now
raised itself, white in the sunlight, above the many blackened
piles. Calvert saw in a single reconnoitring glance that it had
but one approach--the flight of steps from the Marsh. Instructing
his men to fall in on the outer edge of the brake and await his
orders, he quickly made his way across the space and ascended the
steps. Passing along the gallery he knocked at the front door.
There was no response. He repeated his knock. Then the window
beside it opened suddenly, and he was confronted with the double-
muzzle of a long ducking-gun. Glancing instinctively along the
barrels, he saw at their other extremity the bright eyes, brilliant
color, and small set mouth of a remarkably handsome girl. It was
the fact, and to the credit of his training, that he paid more
attention to the eyes than to the challenge of the shining tubes
before him.
"Jest stop where you are--will you!" said the girl determinedly.
Calvert's face betrayed not the slightest terror or surprise.
Immovable as on parade, he carried his white gloved hand to his
cap, and said gently, "With pleasure."
"Oh yes," said the girl quickly; "but if you move a step I'll jest
blow you and your gloves offer that railin' inter the Marsh."
"I trust not," returned Calvert, smiling.
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