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Altsheler, Joseph A. (Joseph Alexander), 1862-1919

"The Free Rangers A Story of the Early Days Along the Mississippi"


The words of Long Jim stirred the youth deeply. He did not like intrigue
and double-dealing and the ways of foreign men. Like Long Jim he longed
for the great honest forest, and he, too, had his respect for the Indian
who would tomahawk him without claiming to be a friend. He was glad, very
glad, that he had come upon so great an errand, but he would like to
cleave through the whole web of intrigue with one sturdy blow and then be
off into the forest which was calling to him with such a dearly loved
voice.
Paul saw Henry's face and he understood its expression. He knew that it
was harder for his comrade than for himself to endure the confinement
within four walls, but he said nothing. Words would be wasted.
Later in the day their door was opened, and Mr. Pollock came in bringing
with him a cheery breeze.
"I've come to tell you what news there may be," he said, "and also to ask
questions. Now, sit down and make yourselves comfortable. That's right.
The cunning and ambitious Don Francisco Alvarez is in a rage. He is also
somewhat frightened. He knows that Bernardo Galvez will be busy the next
few days trying to secure the proof of the charges that you make against
him. In my opinion, Galvez believes that they are true, but, as you will
agree, he cannot act without proof.


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