THE GHOST AT THE

WATERFALL

THE VICKI BARR AIR STEWARDESS SERIES

Silver Wings for Vicki
Vicki Finds the Answer
The Hidden Valley Mystery
The Secret of Magnolia Manor
The Clue of the Broken Blossom
Behind the White Veil
The Mystery at Hartwood House
Peril Over the Airport
The Mystery of the Vanishing Lady
The Search for the Missing Twin
The Ghost at the Waterfall
The Clue of the Gold Coin
The Silver Ring Mystery
The Clue of the Carved Ruby
The Mystery of Flight 908
The Brass Idol Mystery

THE VICKI BARR AIR STEWARDESS SERIES

________________________________________________________

THE GHOST
AT THE

WATERFALL
BY HELEN WELLS
________________________________________________________

GROSSET & DUNLAP

PUBLISHERS
New York

 BY GROSSET & DUNLAP, INC., 1956

All Rights Reserved

PRINTED IN THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

CONTENTS
________________________________________________________

CHAPTER

PAGE

OFF TO CANADA

II

WORDS IN A LONELY CABIN

19

III

SECRET CACHE

31

IV

UNWILLING GUESTS

49

MIDDLE OF THE NIGHT

65

VI

GO OR STAY?

78

VII

VICKI MEETS A MOUNTIE

96

VIII

THE GUN AND THE BOX

114

IX

OUTPOST MESSAGE

133

DANGEROUS WATCH

148

XI

GHOST AT THE WATERFALL

164

XII

NIGHT OF TERROR

175

XIII

A QUICK RUSE

191

XIV

CAPTURED!

203

XV

UPHOLD THE RIGHT

219

CHAPTER I

Off to Canada

Ruth Hall! What a wonderful surprise!

Vicki, you look exactly the same as you did in
high school!
When we danced the tap number together in the
school show. Come in, Ruthie!
Vicki led Ruth Hall into The Castle, into the long
living room where a fire crackled on this cold day.
Freckles, the Barr familys white-and-brown spaniel,
helped do the honors.
Youre looking awfully well, Ruth, and so
professional. Do you know its been twono, three
years since weve seen each other? Vicki took
Ruths coat. But it feels like only last year that we
accidentally let the baby mice loose in biology
class.
Who let them out? Ruth demanded, laughing.
All right, I let them out. But you helped me
catch them. Come sit down.
Two chairs faced each other beside the fireplace.
1

She shooed Freckles off one chair, but Ruth took the
little dog on her lap.
How do you like being a flight stewardess,
Vicki? And a private pilot as well! I always
expected you to do something special.
Well, how do you like being a nurse? Thats
pretty special.
Love it. Only Im like youIm so busy I
hardly ever get home to Fairview.
That, unfortunately, is why we never see each
other. Have you seen any of our old high school
crowd yet on this trip?
Ruth shook her smooth brown head. She had had
a telephone visit with Lynn and Dickie Brown, she
said, whod heard from Guy English whod heard
from Bill Avery out at the airport that Vicki had just
arrived in town. Thats a small town for you!
Nice and neighborly, Vicki said, after working
in big cities. Youve been mostly in Chicago?
They exchanged news. They inquired after each
others mother and father. Mrs. Hall had gone
visiting today in Twin Hills, and that name recalled
to Vicki the time when five of their class had gone
skiing there with three pairs of skis among them.
I thought I heard voices, said Mrs. Barr,
coming in. Both girls rose. How nice to see you
again, Ruthie! How is your family?
My parents are well, thank you, but my older
2

brother is ill.
Bob? Im sorry to hear that.
I meannot illhes been injured.
Why, Ruth! Vicki exclaimed. Why didnt you
tell me right away? All my joking
Ruth smiled understandingly.
Isnt Bob in Canada? Mrs. Barr asked.
Yes, Mrs. Barr, at a nickel mine.
Ruth told them that her brother, a mining
engineer, had been working at James Bay located in
east-central Canada, at the southern tip of Hudson
Bay. Yesterday Ruth and her family had received a
telegram notifying them that Bob had sustained a
back injury in a mine accident.
The telegram didnt tell us much, Ruth said.
My brother didnt even send it himself, so he must
be She shook her head slightly. Im worried.
Id be worried, too, Vicki said. But isnt there
a doctor at these nickel mines?
Yes, but no nurse, no hospital. Whats the good
of my being a nurse if I cant help my own brother
in an emergency?
Cant you fly up there? Betty Barr asked.
I dont know of any airline that goes up there. At
least not from here.
Vicki sat thinking. She needed this week to rest,
so that she could return refreshed to her stewardess
job with Federal Airlines. Yet, to paraphrase what
3

Ruth had just said, what was the good of being a

licensed flier if she did not help out in an
emergency? Besides, she had always liked Ruth Hall
with her quiet brown eyes and sympathetic nature.
Ruth, would you like me to fly you up to James
Bay?
Well, its important for me to get to Bob fast. In
fact, I When I heard you were in town, I felt
relieved. At least I could ask you.
Vicki heard her mother sigh and knew what she
was thinking: Vicki needs to rest. But this is an
emergency. Mrs. Barr did not voice her thoughts
aloud.
If youll excuse me now, she said, Ill finish
my household chores. Come again soon, Ruth. Im
not urging you, but if you girls do goshe
grinnedlet me know and Ill pack a lunch for
you.
After her mother left, Vicki said, Well, lets see.
The first thing would be to talk to Bill Avery at the
airfield about renting us a plane.
Oh, Vicki, thank you! I knew you wouldnt fail
me! How soon can we start? Today?
Now wait a minute, Vicki said, laughing.
She pulled out her fathers atlas and looked up the
mileage from Fairview, south of Chicago, to Hudson
Bay, due north in Canada. Then Vicki figured aloud
roughly how much gasoline would be needed to
4

carry them to Hudson Bay, and how many times

they would have to land to refuel, and where. The
flying time would take approximately nine hours.
Ruth, how early can you start tomorrow
morning? Would six or seven be too early?
The earlier the better. Just let me know, Vic.
Ruth went downtown to buy medical supplies for
the trip, and Vicki took the bus out to Avery Airport.
Bill Avery had tickets for himself and Vicki for
tomorrow evenings basketball game, but he was
good-humored about helping her plan the flight.
First Bill checked weather and flight conditions by
telephone. Then he and Vicki mapped out a safe
flight plan on an air chart, tracing a route from here
to Fort Albany on James Bay, Canada. Bill promised
to obtain clearance for Vickis course from the
United States Civil Aeronautics Authority; CAA
clearance ensured safety for traffic in the air lanes,
at various altitudes.
Fortunately, Bills Piper Cub trainer plane was
available. Bill warned Vicki, though, that the light
plane might lose some speed and time if they ran
into strong northern headwinds tomorrow. It was the
end of March, and even here the winds were rough.
Another thing, Bill reminded her: the Cubs cruising
range was 250 miles per hour, and the distance to
James Bay was 800 miles, so Vicki would have to
land several times to refuel. One more thing: the
5

flight would have to be done in daylight, since the

Cub had no landing or wing lights for night flying.
With any luck at all, Bill said, you and Ruth
should make it in one day. Start early, pigeonnot
much after daybreak if you can. Six oclock is better
than seven.
That evening Vicki telephoned Ruth Hall that
they would take off at six. Ruth sounded relieved
over the telephone that the arrangements were
definitely made. She had obtained the needed
supplies to go into her nurses kit, she reported, and
had laid out her heaviest clothing for her stay in
northern Canada.
Until tomorrow morning, then, Ruth.
When Vicki said her good-nights early to her
family, Professor Barr set aside his newspaper and
said:
I suppose I ought to be resigned to seeing you
rarely, Victoria, or at least used to it. One of these
days Ill fail to recognize you and say, Who is that
small blond girl? She looks vaguely familiar.
Oh, Dad, its only a days flight up there and a
days flight back. Ill be home again day after
tomorrow, you see?
Ginny, a younger, shorter, plumper version of
Vicki, declared that if Vicki was going to retire
early, so would she. Freckles and Ill only wake her
up when we come to bed, anyway.
6

Have you completed your homework?

Professor Barr asked. In particular, the advanced
algebra?
Mrs. Barr remarked she thought that it was a fine
idea to start to bed early and have a long nights rest.
That made Ginnys escape easy.
Upstairs in the blue bedroom which the sisters
shared, Ginny helped Vicki pack the few things she
was taking for an overnight journey. Vicki laid out
her green woolen sweater and slacks, her hooded
storm jacket and woolen gloves for tomorrow. And
that was that.
The toothbrush traveler. Vicki yawned.
Ginny, in the other twin bed, giggled, then
grunted as the spaniel trotted across her stomach.
Good night, Vic. Heres wishing we wake up to
good weather.
Next morning the day promised to be clear. The
night mists were blowing away, like ragged veils,
when Vicki caught the bus to the airport.
She found Ruth already in the office shack,
warmly dressed, ready with her nurses kit and a
small suitcase. They had scarcely said hello when
Bill Avery burst in, his hair on end, grease smudges
on his face and worn leather jacket.
Hi, Vicki, Ruth. I have your CAA clearance all
right. He fished for it on his disordered desk. Ted
and I checked over the Cub last night, and shes so
7

tuned-up shes singin! Want to come out on the

field now?
You are speedy, Ruth said gratefully.
Cubs out of the hangar, and Teds warmin her
up. You ladies have a long way to fly today, so lets
get outside.
Morning, Ted, Vicki called, and waved to the
mechanic warming up the Cubs engine. Ted Baker
grinned back at her and at Ruth.
Standing near the small plane, Bill went over the
flight plan with Vicki for the final time. Bill advised
her to refuel at Chicagolanding, refueling, and
taking off again there might take half an hour. She
could figure spending fifteen minutes, though, at
smaller cities.
Be careful, Vic, said Bill. Without a radio in
the Cub, you follow the old sawif in doubt, set the
plane down.
Will do. Vicki smiled up into Bills dark-blue
eyes. Well get there all right. Besides, youll know
where well be every minute of the way. You have a
duplicate of our flight plan.
Sure, youll get there safely. If itll make your
families feel any better, Ill call up your mother and
Ruths mother and say so.
Youre a friend, Ruth said to him. We did say
good-by to our folks, but a call from you would
make them feel better.
8

Bill nodded. In you go.

Ted climbed out and Vicki ducked through the
plane door and slid into the pilots seat. Ruth Hall
climbed in after her and took the passengers chair
in back. Ted had the throttle on, the oil warmed up,
ready for her. Bill slammed the door closed, then
changed his mind. He came back to open the door
for an instant.
What is it? Vicki asked.
Here. He pulled off the scarf he was wearing.
For good luck. Put it on.
Thanks, Bill. All ready now.
Vicki adjusted the carburetor a bit and checked
the gas gauge. Next, she tested the magnetos, her
feet on the rudder pedals. She was used to the Cub.
Bill had given her flying lessons in the small plane,
and it felt as familiar as her own shoes. He waved to
her and backed off. Vicki waited while the Cub,
gathering power, hummed and vibrated like an
outsize bee. She turned around to Ruth and shouted
over the engine noise:
Ever been up in a light plane before?
Ruth Hall shook her head, looking tense.
Relax. Put your kit on the floor. Here we go.
Vicki taxied down the length of the field, turned
the plane into the wind, then giving it full throttle,
built up another reserve of power. Then the Cub was
lifting, rising past Bills office shack, past Bill
9

himself, and climbing into the sky.

The first part of the flight, up to Chicago and then
due north, along Lake Michigans easterly shore,
went easily and swiftly. Vicki swerved away from
thick gray clouds to where the sky was blue and
limitless. Ruth Hall called out, I wouldnt be
surprised to see an angel floating by! Vicki felt
relieved that her passenger was enjoying herself. In
level flight, with the engine noise reduced to a whir
and the Cub keeping steadily on course, they were
able to talk, in snatches.
Is your flight stewardess job as exciting as this?
Yes, but exciting in a different waypeople
instead of piloting, Vicki called over her shoulder.
Getting a planeload of people strapped in for takeoff, then fed and comfortable, and then off at the
right stopwell, its a job!
Ill bet you love it as much as I love nursing.
Vicki nodded. They had refueled, without
incident, at Grand Rapids. She glanced at her
instrument panel readings, looked for landmarks
below, then checked with the flight map on her lap.
She was too busy navigating to talk, particularly
when the plane passed over the straits where Lake
Michigan flows into Lake Huron.
Were crossing the border into Canada, Vicki
informed her passenger. It simplified their journey
that no passports were needed.
10

Arent we making fast time! Ruth called.

So they were, although now that they were flying
above Canada, Vickis job was more exacting. More
exciting as well. She had not flown this route before,
and she found it wonderfully interesting to see Sault
Ste. Marie receding below. Ruth was excited, too.
Were over Ontario Province, arent we, Vicki?
Do you think well see Ottawa?
Vicki replied that the capital city lay east of their
course. So did Ontariosand the Dominions
largest cities, Toronto and Montreal. Vicki would
have liked a look at their stately towers. The large
factory towns below resembled American industrial
cities. The resemblance was there when they
refueled at Sudbury. However, as they flew north,
Vicki enjoyed the wide stretches of countryside,
with placid small towns built along the rivers. The
towns grew fewer. Dark green groves of fir trees
began to appear, and among them, lakes. In the
distance mountains rose up.
Isnt it beautiful! Ruth Hall cried. Such
whats the word?grandeur.
How big and empty it is, Vicki answered. She
knew that Canada was larger than the United States,
nearly as large as the whole continent of Europe,
and was sparsely settled outside of its cities. To
know it was one thing, but to see these magnificent
reaches of silent, northern land awed her. Vicki
11

almost lost sight of the glinting railroad tracks

below, which she was following.
Whats the next big town we fly over? Ruth
Hall asked.
We wont be passing over any big towns.
Timminswhere we refueledwas the last big one
on our charted course.
My brother writes me the most fabulous things
about Canada. Ruth leaned forward so that Vicki
could hear her. Bob did write me one really
fascinating letterabout northern legends hes
heard.
Yes, these wild forests and rivers must be rich in
history and legend.
Vicki, would it distract you if I told you one
legend? I cant get it out of my mind.
Well Vicki glanced down at the river she
was now following. Except for rising winds,
whirling down out of the distant mountains, the
flying was not difficult. Yes, tell me, Ruth.
Well, its an Indian waterfall legend. Bob wrote
that most everyone hes met so far in Canada is
inclined to believe its true. Theres a mysterious
spot in the woods where the ghost of an Indian
maiden appears at the crest of a waterfall. She
comes at each full moon, on the stroke of midnight.
The legend, Ruth said, told of how the Indian
maiden loved a boy to whom her father objected. He
12

sent the boy away, and the girl, in her grief, threw
herself over the waterfall to the rocks beneath. The
legend warned that her ghost returned to seize any
living person and throw or lure him over the falls, to
avenge and commemorate her death.
But thats fantastic, Vicki objected. How can
it be true?
Bob heard that two people, at two separate
times, disappeared mysteriously by going over those
falls, each time at the full moon. Of course that was
long ago, perhaps a hundred years ago, Ruth said,
but the two disappearances are a matter of record.
It doesnt sound like twin accidents, Vicki
admitted. Some of these old Indian tales are based
on fact. Buta ghostthats ridiculous!
I dont believe in ghosts any more than you do,
Ruth said. Anyway, Canada is full of waterfalls.
Oops! Feels as if were bouncing over a falls
ourselves!
Hold on to the arms of your chair, Vicki called.
Gusts of wind, unexpectedly strong, buffeted
their light plane. The wind must have shifted, Vicki
thought at first, then she realized that they were
flying into northern headwinds. It was growing
noticeably colder in the cabin. Vicki pulled on one
glove at a time and took a firmer grip on the
controls. She was obliged to feed the plane more gas
in order to maintain speed. As for altitude, the light
13

two-seater rose and sank like a kite in the winds.

There was nothing to be alarmed about, except the
rate at which she was using up gasoline in order to
push against the wind.
II think Im going to be seasick, Ruth wailed.
No, youre not, Vicki called back firmly. Stop
looking down at the earth. The terrain below
seemed to be rocking from side to side. Look into
the sky, and keep swallowing.
In a moment Ruth called, Im fine! Advice
worked.
Vicki had no time to worry about the passenger
behind her. Her attention was riveted on the gas
gauge, and on the map. At the rate they were using
up gas, they would soon have to come down, at an
airfield or anywhere where they could refuel. But
Vicki saw no signs of an airfield nearby, neither on
the flight map, nor any arrows or big clearings on
the ground below. Perhaps they could land at the
next town or village, wherever there might be a
filling station for cars. A small airplane could be
operated properly on automotive gasoline, in a
pinch.
But no town or village came into sight. The flight
map showed only wilderness until they reached
James Bay. Vicki began to feel uneasy. They were
not going to reach James Bay on this depleted gas
supply. She would have to land soon, and hope that
14

15

somewhere in the shelter of these deep forests a

village lay concealed. Or if not a village, at least
some outpost, some sign of life.
Were going down for gas, Vicki called Ruth.
Dont be alarmed. Its to only to refuel.
An airport or gas station here? In these snowcovered woods? I dont even see a road or a pasture.
Where are you going to land, Vicki?
I wish I knew! Enough gas was left to permit
Vicki to circle and look carefully below. She had no
wish to land badly and possibly damage the plane.

16

At last she sighted a fairly large clearing in the

woods. Better, really, than she had any reason to
hope for. She circled, and then came coasting in for
an emergency landing. The Cub made a neat threepoint landing in the snow.
Ruth! Congratulate us! I dont know exactly
where we are, but were here!
Vicki cut off the ignition, and in the sudden
silence, she thought she heard the rushing, flowing
sounds of a waterfall.
Ruth heard it, too, as they opened the plane door
and crawled out. Must be a big falls, Ruth said,
not to be frozen over. Can you see it?
They both gazed around, seeing only forest. The
waterfall sounded somewhere near. But Vicki was
not much interested; she was busy stretching her
legs, grown stiff after several hours of sitting in one
position.
It certainly feels good to stand up again, she
said to Ruth. Lets see where weve landed and
where we can get some gasI hope.
Shall I take my nursing kit along? Ruth asked.
I think wed better take everything along. Not
that I think anyone is coming along to steal things
out of the plane, unless its a grizzly bear.
Ruth pretended to shudder. Are you serious?
Not very, but you never can tell.
The waterfalls soft roaring came louder, then
17

softer, on gusts of wind. With forest all around

them, the girls hesitated about which direction to
take. Then Vicki noticed faint footprints and sleigh
marks in the snow.
Thats a welcome sign! Come on, Ruth, lets see
where the footprints lead.

18

CHAPTER II

Words in a Lonely Cabin

The curious thing about the sleigh marks, Vicki

noticed, was the absence of any dog tracks.
Apparently men had pulled the sled. But werent
sleds usually dragged by a team of huskies?
Ruth, what about these tracks? Vicki pointed.
Dont you think just footprints is odd?
Ruth was shivering and not very much interested
in marks in the snow.
Bob says its expensive to feed a team of six or
eight huskies and the lead dog. Do you know a
husky eats as much as a man, per day? Maybe the
people who pulled the sled through here cant afford
a team.
Vicki brooded over the explanation. What could
men be doing in this wilderness?
Hunting, Ruth said. Hunting moose or bear or
wild fowl. Or they might be fur trappers. Please,
Vicki, lets walk faster. Im freezing.
About ten minutes walk through oaks and tall
19

Douglas fir brought them to a cabin. They came

upon it abruptly because the trees grew close to the
cabins windows and door. They could still hear the
waterfall bubbling, and from here see just its high
crest.
Why would anyone want to live in this cabin so
deep in the forest? Ruth asked.
It may be a hunting lodge, Vicki said.
Cant we go in and warm ourselves?
Vicki hesitated. Who do you suppose is in
there?
Theres one way to find out. Ruth gave her a
little push. Or would you rather stay outside and
meet a bear while I turn into ice?
At least wed better inquire where to buy gas, if
were ever to reach your brother.
Vicki knocked on the cabin door. She screwed up
courage by reminding herself that people living in
wild, lonely places often helped one another out. No
one answered her knock. She tried the door and
found it unlocked. That seemed a gesture of
hospitality. Opening the door a crack, Vicki and
Ruth peered in.
Hello! Ruth called. Hello?
No one was home. The crude kitchen-living room
felt warm, though; fresh kindling wood was laid
beside the fireplace. Ruth looked longingly at a
coffeepot on a cookstove in the corner. She went
20

over and touched the coffeepot.

Hot, Ruth said. The stove, too.
It looks as if the owner may have gone for
supplies, Vicki said. Down a short hall, doors to
two other rooms stood open.
I certainly could use something hot. Dont you
think we could have a cup of this coffee?
Neither girl saw any reason why not. The cabins
unlocked door seemed invitation enough to anyone
lost or in need of food in the northern wilderness.
Finding cups on the table, both girls took a little
coffee, not lingering over it. The Cub was not
equipped for night flying and they wanted to reach
James Bay well before nightfall. They rinsed their
cups under the pump, buttoned up their jackets, and
stepped outdoors.
The cold was easier to stand now, even
stimulating. The deep glistening snow, the profound
stillness gave Vicki the feeling that she was in an
enchanted forest. Except, Vicki thought, for the
practical details she and Ruth had to attend to. They
took a little walk and discovered the cabin was the
only one in this isolated area.
What do we do next? Ruth asked, stamping her
feet. She felt the cold keenly; Vicki was concerned
for her. There must be a village or at least a hamlet
somewhere.
Yes, but in what direction? How far away?
21

Were far enough north to be in a very thinly

populated area, Vicki said.
We cant just wander.
They decided to wait in the cabin. Surely
someone would return and give them directions.
Their chief concern was that the cabins occupant
or occupants, Ruth reminded Vicki, come back
soon.
In the meantime, the girls made themselves at
home. Never having been in a cabin in the north
woods, they looked with interest around the few,
small rooms. Each sleeping room contained two cots
and little else. One bedroom was larger and held an
iron stove which was almost a luxury item in these
surroundings. An outhouse stood in back of the
cabin. Still, Vicki thought, the essentials for living
were here. People could live here for weeks, or
months, and apparently did. She and Ruth noticed a
large supply of canned food and dried milk stacked
in the main room.
Vicki was intrigued by a closet which filled most
of the space in the short hall. She could judge by
standing in the bedrooms how deep the closet ran,
right to the back wall of the house.
What do you suppose is in that closet?
Well, open the door and peek, why dont you?
Ruth giggled.
Vicki was tempted but knew she really had no
22

right to open that closet door. To take refuge against

the cold was one thing, but to pry was another. Ruth,
too, looked a little ashamed.
I didnt really mean that, Vicki. Lets just sit
down and wait.
They sat down on wooden kitchen chairs and
gazed out the small, steamy windows. Indoors die
girls could still hear the waterfall faintly. Twenty
minutes dragged by.
Then they heard voicestwo? Or three mens
voices? Coming closer, the voices sounded like
three. The girls exchanged uneasy glances. Vicki
stood beside one window but not in front of it, so
that she could see without being seen. Ruth took up
the same cautious position at the other front
window.
It was hard to see clearly through the steamy
windows and hard to hear. Two men moved through
the trees dragging a third man on a sleigh. All of
them were so heavily bundled up that Vicki could
not see much of their faces, even when they came
right up to the cabin. Their voices, however, were
unmistakably angry.
What are they arguing with each other about?
Ruth whispered. I dont like this!
Ssh. Listen, and Vicki heard one man yell
something that sounded like did it on purpose!
Dont! Youre hurting me!
23

He clutched his left shoulder and seemed weak,

as if he were injured. While one man supported him,
the other removed from the sleigh several big, bulky
shapeless packs which had been cushioning him.
They did not look like blankets; they were burlap,
and appeared too soft to contain food supplies.
You cant tell me it was an accident! the
injured man yelled. His voice was high and shrill.
Watch what youre doing with the packs!
Quit giving us orders. The taller of the two men
was moving around right outside Vickis window.
Whose idea was it to shoot rabbits? Yours! . . .
Yes, one blast of your gun and we couldve had
a Mountie jumping us. How do you know there isnt
a Mountie around? Its a good thing I had the sense
to grab that gun away from you!
Grab, nothing, the injured man protested.
Maybe you meant to shoot me. He pulled
painfully away from the stocky man supporting him.
Jake, are you tryin to pull my arm out of the
socket? Get me in the house.
Jake, the shorter man, grinned foolishly behind
his beard, and Vicki noticed an odd thing, as the two
men began to lift the third man off the sleigh. The
tall, rangy man, too, was bearded. But the third man,
the disputed leader, was clean-shaven and florid.
Ruth poked her. Theyre coming in! Lets get
out of here! she whispered.
24

But theres only the one door in and out of the

house All right, the bedroom. The small one!
The two girls raced in there without a sound.
They cautiously left the door open only a bit and
stood behind it. They made it just in time. Vicki was
trembling. Friendly woodsmen, indeed! What had
she and Ruth stumbled into? They were right in back
of the kitchen and facing the larger bedroom across
the hallway. Vicki hoped theyd not chosen the
injured mans room to hide in. Ruth was holding fast
to her hand.
Scuffling noises in the kitchen made Vicki
wonder whether the men were fighting, but she
heard the wounded man say shrilly, Easycarry
me easy. Close the door, Jake. You can get the packs
later.
Quit givin us orders, like Don said.
Ow! My shoulder! Put me onto my bed The
three men passed so close to the girls that they
brushed the door which made a hiding place. Vicki
and Ruth held their breaths. It flashed through
Vickis mind that they could make a run for itrun
and escape out the door while the men were in the
other bedroom. But suppose she and Ruth werent
fast or quiet enough? And how far could they get in
the deep snow, not even knowing in which direction
to flee?
The men were still arguing in there. This
25

rebellion against the clean-shaven man must have

been brewing for a long time, Vicki thought, if the
men called Don and Jake were bitter enough to
shoot. An unexpected lull fell, punctuated by groans
and the creak of wooden cot legs. Were they treating
the injured shoulder? Ruth was trying vainly to see
through the crack in the door. Vicki drew her away.
In a few minutes the tall man, Don, and the
shorter one, Jake, came out of the room across the
hall. Vicki could see that they were grinning. That
glimpse gave her courage to breathe again, and try
to look encouragingly at Ruth.
But the next thing Vicki heard, a fresh argument
was breaking out. The girls listened. What the two
men said made no sense to Vickireferences to
the border and the dates and repeated warnings
to each other about the Mounted Policeuntil it
occurred to Vicki that the men might just possibly
be engaged in smuggling. She signaled Ruth to
listen carefully.
so how can we wait? The snow wont last
much longer. The voice was Jakes. Spring is
comin and that ends the snow. Then how do we get
through with the stuff?
Its easy. We go by way of Lake of the Woods.
You know the inlets and fishing islands. A lot of
them are deserted in cold weather. We can cross
over into Minnesota from there.
26

Vicki recalled what a pilot friend had once told

her about Lake of the Woodsa great body of treefringed, island-studded water, wedged between the
east corner of Ontario and Minnesotas northern
border. Wedged between Canada and the United
States. That would serve as a crossing place for
anyone wanting to avoid customs agents. It would
serve the purposes of smugglers!
Now Vicki understood better why these men had
a sleighfor transporting whatever it was they
smuggledand why they traveled on foot, more
stealthily and silently than they could with a dog
team. What was the valuable thing they smuggled?
It could not be heavy nor too large, Vicki figured.
She was missing some of what they were saying.
The frightened expression on Ruths face gave her a
hint.
okay so long as we dont run into a pea-soup
fog. I wouldnt like losin our way, Don boy.
Whats the matter, afraid? We never got lost yet.
That was because Jody was along, and Jody
knows every back trail, every way of gettin through
that there is. But if just we go
Don grunted. Im sick of hearing about Jody.
Havent we both had enough?
Well, sure, Jake agreed hastily, if I never see
or hear of Jody again, itll be all right with me.
Orders, orders! Then cuttin in on our take!
27

Vicki would have given a great deal to see their

faces and whatever it was they were doing that made
soft, vague sounds. But she and Ruth were neatly
caught in a trap of their own making. If they had not
overheard the menif, instead of hiding in alarm,
she and Ruth had announced their presence It was
risky to know too much. Maybe they should come
forth boldly now? But Vicki did not dare. She and
Ruth were too frightened even to whisper to each
other, afraid that someone would hear them. If only
the two men would leave! She and Ruth might be
able to follow their tracks to a road.
In sign language Ruth suggested trying to escape
by the windows. But all the windows in the cabin
were closed against the cold; though icy air came in
through the cracks. Probably the windows were
stuck or frozen, Vicki thought, or even nailed shut
for the winter. She thought of the small screw driver
and pencil-size flashlight Bill had given her to carry
in her pocket whenever she was flying. But she
shook her head regretfully at Ruth. It would take
time and patience and the cover of night to work at
those windowseven if she were able to work
without making noise. Though Vicki hoped
fervently they would not be obliged to stay in this
cabin until nightfall.
Suddenly the two men burst out in loud argument.
All right, all right! That was Dons sullen
28

voice. If youre so sure there are hunters hanging

somewhere around Lake of the Woods, well go by
the usual White River trail.
But we cant, Don boy. The ice was spotty last
time. Remember I told you and Jody? We had a time
gettin the sleigh and the stuff across. Suppose that
end of the river isnt still frozen over by the time we
get there? Then what?
Vicki heard Don swear at his companion. Whos
been saying all along we should take the stuff out of
here sooner, and to the United States sooner? Me!
But would Jody listen? No!
Jake muttered something about a promise said
wed get the stuff across the border by that date.
And now with the weather breakin up the snow and
ice, howre we goin to move the sleigh?
Well go by the White River, I tell you.
Too risky! If it dont work out by the White
River, well have to swing over and maybe run right
into Mounties and customs agents.
Oh, keep quiet. Youre as bad as Jody.
In the bedroom the leader groaned. The two men
must have heard the groans, too. They whispered
together, and then there were footsteps.
Well, how should I know or care? Im no
doctor.
Listen, Don, Ive got liniment around somewheres Heavy footsteps came closer. I guess in
29

here
Without warning the door to the smaller bedroom
was pushed open and the man called Jake walked in.
Ruth jumped behind the door. But Vicki stood
facing a pair of beady black eyes.

30

CHAPTER III

Secret Cache

Well! Whore you? Hey, Don! Come look at what

the wind just blew in. Ruth stirred and the man
dragged her out. Two of them, Don boy.
The taller of the bearded men lounged in the
doorway.
Thought I saw some strangers footprints
outside. It was your fool idea, Jake, not to bother to
lock the door! So now we have visitors. His beard
half masked his contorted face. What do you smart
alecks think youre doing here? You have no right to
be here! Been standing here listening, havent you?
Nohonestlywe arent interested in your
business, Vicki stammered. She thought fast. We
were exhausted and fell asleep in here. Im awfully
sorry. If youd tell us where
First youll tell me a few things. Asleep, huh!
Don closed the door. The room with four of them in
it seemed to close in. What are you girls doing
around this woods?
31

We were cold, Ruth started, and we werent

sure in what direction we were walking
Cut out the lies! Whatre you doin in these
woods? Jake barked.
Vicki hesitated, then said, We ran out of gas. We
were looking for a gas station, found your cabin, and
came in to ask
Or did someone send you here?
Ill bet it was Jake was stopped by Don who
jabbed him with an elbow.
Ran out of gas! I suppose you were joy riding,
driving your car in and out through the woods, in all
the snow.
We were flying, Ruth said defiantly. We were
forced down because we were running out of gas.
This piece of information had an immediate effect
on the two men. They began to smile.
A plane? And where is it now?
Its where the Ruth started, then saw Vicki
frown at her.
Never mind the signals, Blondie. Jake grinned.
Well find your plane all right. Theres only one
place it could be, eh, Don boy? In the clearing, close
by the waterfall.
Vicki felt her face burning, a giveaway the two
men did not fail to notice.
Thats where the plane is! Jake crowed. You
the pilot, Blondie?
32

That was real nice of you, Don drawled, to

bring us a plane. Just when we need it, too. We sure
can make good use of it.
So the men planned to use the plane and fly their
stuff over the border! Vicki felt weak at the idea.
Did they expect her to fly their loot for them? The
urgency of reaching Ruths injured brother paled
beside the danger they found themselves in. Vicki
heard Don mutter to Jake about sure is a windfall.
Sure is a lucky break.
Yeah, now we dont have to worry about the
spring thaw, or nothin.
Ruth seemed compelled to talk. You think you
can simply take our planedont you know every
plane has a wing number? Youll be spotted.
Besides, whos going to fly it for you?
The two men snickered. Don made her a bow.
Allow me, Madam, yours truly. You dont have
to tell me anything about planes. Im a pilot myself.
Surprised? Hah, look at Blondie, shes surprised!
Vicki turned away in chagrin. She had been
unobtrusively opening the door inch by inch, not in
any real hope of escapeshe could not bear being
closed in with these men.
So you know how to fly, Vicki said slowly.
Youd better really know how, before you start to
go up.
Blondie, I was an Air Force pilot in World War
33

II. Only the Air Force didnt appreciate me. They

gave me a D.D. instead of a Silver Star.
A D.D. meant a dishonorable discharge. The man
was a renegade pilot.
Vicki swallowed hard but she was determined to
keep her wits. The main thing was to find out where
she could get gas. As she listened, the men
themselves unwittingly gave her that information.
They talked rapidly, as if they had forgotten the two
girls.
We goin to tell Jody? asked Jake.
Are you crazy? No. Not till the last minute,
anyway.
Listen, Don boy, lets go to Pine Tree for gas.
Okay, well bring back cans of gas and fill up
the plane.
Well, Vicki thought, shed learned that a village
or settlement of some sort was within walking
distance, and gas could be purchased there. But as
for the mens intent to commandeer the planeto
use the plane and probably leave the girls behind
the only way to circumvent it was to get help. At
Pine Tree. But the men werent going to leave the
girls free to walk to Pine Tree and report the theft of
the plane. These men plan to keep us here, Vicki
realized, by force. Oh, what are Ruth and I going to
do? For though the smugglers were more interested
just now in the plane than in their unwanted guests,
34

the girls turn was coming.

Ruth walked restlessly up and down. She was
worrying mostly about her brother, Vicki surmised.
Don grunted to Ruth to sit down. Both girls sat
down tensely on the cots. Across the hall the injured
leader moaned in pain. Jake lifted his head, but he
and Don were busy counting out the cash they had
in their pockets. Cash for gasoline.
Ruth watched them. She said:
You cant take our plane. You mustnt.
The men paid no attention to her.
You mustnt, dont you hear? Because Ive got
to get to the nickel mines as soon as possible. My
brothers been hurt. I have to nurse him!
Twelve, thirteen, and wheres your five-spot,
Jake? Whatd you say? Whats that about nursing?
Im a nurse, and Im on my way to
A nurse! Don glanced at Ruths kit. Why
didnt you say so? We can use a nurse. We can use
the things you brought along to nurse with, too.
Cant we, Jake?
Yes, sir, this is our lucky day! Or maybe its
Jodys lucky day.
Well, I wasnt thinkin so much about Jody
Have a heart, Jake said. After all, we got a
nurse here for free, and another girl for a helper. So
why not use em?
Don smiled wryly. Sure, the girls can stay here
35

and do nursing until Jody is on the mend.

Vicki could not bear such a prospect. Suppose
we dont want to stay?
Youll stay! Jody can still handle a gun.
From his cot? Vicki scoffed.
She did not know whether the threat was bluff or
fact. Don was careful not to answer. But shed rather
risk dealing with an injured man flat on his backat
the momentthan with these two able-bodied men.
Vicki settled back, deciding to be watchful and say
nothing.
Ruth burst out uselessly, You dont dare keep us
here!
Ruth, dont argue! Vicki whispered. Ruth
stared at her in confusion, then turned back to Don.
If youre so concerned about this Jody, why
dont you call a doctor?
There isnt any doctor! Jake snapped.
No country doctor? Not anywhere around here?
Ruth trembled. I dont believe you!
Don said, We dont care what you believe. Get
in that room and fix up Jodys shoulder.
Its criminal not to call a doctor
Get in there! And you, Blondie. You stay where
you are.
Ruth resigned herself. Ill need some boiling
water for sterilizing things.
Okay. Blondie, you go boil some water. Jake
36

37

and I will stay in here. We still have things to talk

over, Jake.
Were leavin the door openJake grinned
so we can keep a watch on you.
Don shoved Ruth in the other bedroom.
Vicki went into the kitchen, wondering how she
could ever have thought it a friendly room. She
pumped a panful of water, and set the pan on the
stove to heat. The coal stove was slow; she poked
the fire and waited, listening.
Only the rush of the waterfall came to her, and
almost as low, Jakes and Dons voices. Their words
were too blurred to distinguish. She heard Ruth
moving around in the leaders bedroom. That these
men were members of an organized ring, Vicki no
longer doubted. She recalled how Jake had said
we in telling Don about crossing the frozen river
last time. We! That probably meant others beside
these three participated. In what? Why were they so
eager to avoid the Royal Canadian Mounted Police,
and evade customs agents, if they were not
smugglers?
Vicki!
Ruth stood in the doorway. Vicki was alarmed at
the fleeting expression on her face.
Ruth? Whats the matter?
Don rushed into the kitchen just in time to come
between the two girls.
38

Oh, no, you dont, he said. What are you

whispering about, Blondie? What are the two of you
up to?
Ruth put on a good show of professional
authority. If you want me to take care of your
friend, youve got to let us alone while we do the
job. Vicki, Ill need a couple of clean clothswrung
out in hot water, and a sterile basin or dish, and
another pan of hot water.
Vicki took Ruths cue. Ignoring Don, she went
about her tasks.
How is Jody? Don asked.
Jodys shoulder is torn but its probably only a
flesh wound, Ruth Hall said evenly. Im more
concerned about the bleeding and symptoms of
possible shock. Youd better put some extra blankets
or coats on Jodys bed.
Don shrugged, but he went out. As soon as they
heard the men tramping around finding extra covers,
Ruth moved close to Vicki.
Listen, Ruth said very low. Did you notice
anything about Jody?
Vicki frowned. Jody is the clean-shaven one.
And he looked strong and heavy.
Well, Jody isnt a he. I ripped open the sleeve to
clean the injured shoulder, and its a womans arm
and shoulder.
II dont understand. What about Jodys hair?
39

And voice?
The voice is pretty shrill. And cropped hair
doesnt mean a thing. As for Jodys face, the
features are so coarsened and wind-burned that
Id better come in with you, Vicki murmured.
She was surprised and disturbed.
In the bedroom the leader lay on the cot furthest
into the room, beside the stove. Ruth had removed
the shoes and cap and some of the bulky outdoor
clothes. Jody clutched the bleeding left shoulder
with a dirty right hand.
Better not touch your shoulder. Ruth moved
away the hand.
Dont touch me! Jody yelled.
Im a nurse, Ruth said patiently. Im trying to
help you.
Don and Jake loomed up in the doorway.
Whatre you doin to make Jody yell? Jake
asked.
A lot you care, the leader grumbled.
Were standin right here while you
No, youre not, Ruth said firmly. If you expect
me to do a decent job, youll have to leave us alone.
And close the door.
Well, dont try any funny stuff. Were right
here.
But the men did close the door behind them. The
leader did not notice them; Jody was having an
40

attack of pain.
Ill give her a mild sedative, Ruth said.
Aspirin. Two, I think. She took aspirin from her
open kit. Buthesshesin pretty bad pain.
Vicki, get a cup of cool water.
Vicki hurried out for the water and went back in,
closing the door on Jake and Don. She noticed they
looked more bored than worried.
It was the nurse, and Vicki herself, who felt any
humane concern for the victim of the shooting.
While Vicki slid an arm under Jodys heavy
shoulders, to lift the leader, Ruth administered the
tablets with a sip of water.
Youll feel easier in a moment, Ruth said.
Ruth washed her hands. Using iodine from her
kit, she made a dilute solution with boiled water,
then applied it with sterile gauze pads to the open
wound. Vicki admired her calm.
Its a small wound, not deep either, Vicki
observed. Do you think theres a bullet left in
there?
No, Ive had enough experience to be reasonably
sure. Id say the bullet only grazed the surface.
Vicki? She turned aside and motioned to Vicki, so
the patient could not hear them. Why would the
men shoot at a woman?
Jody gave a long sigh, thrashed into a more
comfortable position, and opened her eyes. Ruth
41

murmured that Jody was exhausted from the

shoulder wound and from the argument.
Hello? The woman looked sleepily at the girls
as if she did not remember seeing them. Her beady
animal eyes reminded Vicki of Jakes eyes. The
woman kept staring at Ruth. You. Werent you
here before?
Yes. Im a nurse.
Whos she?
My helper.
Jody scowled, as if trying to figure out
something, but the effort was too much.
Wheres Jake? Wheres Don? the woman
demanded. They shot at me. Accident. Maybe
Theyre here in the cabin, Ruth said. Dont try
to talk. Are you feeling better?
Mmm. Thirsty.
Ruth nodded at Vicki to help the woman take a
sip of water. She drank, and sank back on the soiled
pillow in a dazed way.
Is she feverish? Vicki asked. What about
shock?
Ill take her temperature, and Ruth took a
thermometer out of its case. She also took Jodys
pulse. Rapid heartbeat, shallow breathing. But I
dont see any acute signs of shock. Of course theres
a general shock to her nervous system. What worries
me is possible wound infection, and maybe a chance
42

of pneumonia or flu, now that shes weakened and

chilled like this.
Youre a good nurse, Ruth, Vicki commented.
Id do a lot better nursing if I had a doctors
diagnosis and orders to go on. Do you suppose there
really isnt a doctor in these parts?
Who knows? Well have to do the best we can.
At Ruths instruction Vicki washed the blood
away from the womans left shoulder and arm. Then
Ruth cleansed the wound thoroughly with iodine
solution, and began to bandage it with gauze from
the kit.
That hurts, Jody mumbled.
Ruth smiled. So youre awake again. Good. Try
to lift your arm a little bit.
What are you doing to me?
Dont be suspicious. I told you Im a nurse.
Were bandaging this shoulder, to keep it clean.
The woman studied them from half-closed hostile
eyes.
Well, Im glad to have a nurse around, she
admitted. Howd you two kids get here?
Vicki hesitated. We flew.
I told them I heard a plane somewhere. But
theyre too sore at me to listen. Hey! Take it easy
with that arm.
We have to put plenty of gauze on, Ruth said as
she worked.
43

Jody grunted. Her animallike eyes probed the

girls.
I guess you know Im not a man?
Thats right.
They didnt tell you? No, they wouldnt. They
hate takin orders from a woman, even if Jakes my
own brother and Dons married to me. They hate
havin a woman around whos smarter than they
are.
So that was the relationship. Vicki kept a cautious
silence, and Ruth was too busy to talk. After a pause
the woman made another effort.
What are you two kids doin in these parts?
Were on our way to James Bay, Ruth replied.
Vicki explained about being forced down for gas,
and the woman seemed satisfied.
I bet you wonder why were here in the
wilderness. Well, Ill tell you, she said, so you can
tell anybody that asks you at James Bay. We heard
theres uranium around here. So were prospectin.
Vicki knew better than to believe that and
evidently so did Ruth. Uranium deposits were to be
found in the Yukon, in the far western end of
Canada.
The door burst open. Don walked in, with Jake
behind him.
Arent you kids done yet? How much longer?
Don demanded.
44

How you feelin, Jody? asked Jake.

Better. But whats it to you? the woman said.
Who put the bullet in me in the first place?
Please, said Ruth. She must be kept quiet.
Wherere you two goin with your coats on?
Jody demanded.
Don lighted a pipe and flipped the dead match on
the floor. We dont have to tell you anything, Jody.
Youre not giving us orders any more.
Where are you goin? Jody breathed hard. II
know theres a plane grounded around here some
place. You cant lie to me. I know.
Jake grinned. And youre wonderin what were
up to?
For now, Don drawled, Jake and I are going
out to have a look at the plane. To learn the
capacity of the gas tank, Vicki realized. And, Miss
Blondie and Nurse, well be right back.
What are you plannin to do with the plane?
Jody whined.
Don ignored her. Weve been pretty nice to you
kids so far. If you dont want us to get roughdont
try anything.
The two men tramped out. Ruth and Vicki turned
again to the woman, whose eyes were heavy. She
was worn out with the effort of arguing. Ruth and
Vicki taped down the bandage, then cleansed the
thermometer and other instruments. By this time the
45

woman was dozing.

The girls stood beside the cot wondering what to
do next.
Ruth went to peer out the window. I cant see
them, not in all those trees. Vicki, do you think we
should make a run for it?
Its a tempting idea, but Im afraid Don and Jake
would catch us before we got very far.
Yes, of course, they would. Im so worried about
Bob up there at the mine that I Come on, lets
make a sling for Jodys arm.
The question was what to use as a sling. Vicki
searched in the kitchen for towels or even clean
cloths, but she found nothing large enough to serve.
The scarf she wore around her neckBills scarf
would do, but Vicki was not going to part with it.
Bill had said Good luck when he gave it to her.
We could rip up a sheet, Ruth said, searching,
if we could find a sheet anywhere.
Its not likely. There might be something we
could use in the closet, though.
Vicki eyed the closet which had tantalized her
earlier. So deep and wide . . . Well, why not open it?
Now that shed met this unscrupulous trio, she no
longer felt she owed them any consideration
beyond the basic decency of aiding an injured
person.
Vicki touched the closets knob. She noticed that
46

the closet door had a lock and keyhole. Tentatively

she tried the closet door and to her surprise it swung
open. A deep pile of fur pelts tumbled softly around
her ankles. The whole closet was stacked with
glossy fur skins.
Ruth! she called softly. Look what Ive
found.
Ruth ran over and she gasped. Why, those are
mink! Vicki, those furs are worth a fortune!
Vicki nodded. Now we can guess pretty
accurately what was in those packs on their sleigh.
And what they drag on the sleigh, Ruth said
dryly, to avoid customs agents.
Imagine the sum of money these men save, by
not paying the duty on load after load of mink
pelts!
So thats what we heard them doing in the
kitchen, while we were hiding in the bedroom,
Ruth mused. They were unloading the pelts theyd
just brought in.
Where did they get that load of furs? Where
were they coming from with their sleigh? Ruth!
Someones coming!
The girls tried to shove the furs back into the
closet, but they were bulky and slippery to handle.
Before they could get the closet door shut again,
Don and Jake came in. The girls stood there, caught
red-handedexcept that it was the men who were
47

really caught.
Jake passed it off with one of his grins. So you
found out were fur trappers, I see.
I might have known youd poke into the closet!
Don growled. Ruth explained about needing a sling.
The man was too agitated to pay attention. Fur
trappers, as Jake told you.

48

CHAPTER IV

Unwilling Guests

When the men had torn up a shirt to provide a sling,

Vicki and the nurse returned to the leaders room.
They found the woman asleep, an ungainly,
powerful figure on the cot. Ruth said to let her sleep,
they could put on the sling later. Ruth sat down on
the vacant cot, and motioned Ruth to sit beside her.
Its a chance to talk together, Vicki whispered.
The men think were busy with her. How long will
she sleep? For she did not want the woman to wake
and overhear them, either.
It isnt the aspirin that put her to sleep, its
exhaustion, Ruth whispered back. We cant tell
how long shell nap. Lets be quick.
Have you any ideas how to get out of here? Ive
been thinking, Vicki said, but no good.
Same with me. Whichever way we try to turn,
were trapped.
Dont say that, Ruth Hall! Vicki whispered.
Weve got to help ourselves. Listenwhat are they
49

up to in the kitchen?
This time Jake and Don did not bother to lower
their voices. They even sounded cocky. Vicki and
Ruth listened hard to every word.
Now look, Jake, no more ifs and buts. This is
our chance and were going to grab it.
But leavin Jody alone, sick and all, in this Godforsaken place Have a heart.
Havent you had enough of Jody? Suppose she
is your sister, so what? Anyway, she wont be left
alone. We can make those two kids stay with her.
How?
Never mind how! The main thing for us is to get
away, and not let anyone stop us. Well figure out
something for Jody and those kids when the time
comes.
But maybe the nursell just let her lie there,
without us bein around Spose Jody dies on us?
Don snorted. Try to understand! We have a
plane now. We can put all the pelts we want in the
plane, then one, two, three! We get across the
border, fast, no one stops usand were rid of Jody.
Easy, all in one step. The whole swag is ours, too
not Jodys, for a change.
Yeah, its a break. We could get rid of the
others, too, this way.
Vicki and Ruth exchanged glances. So there were
others working in this smuggling ring.
50

Okay, Don boy. I guess Jodys too tough to die.

When do we start?
Without gasoline? Use your head. Well have to
walk in to Pine Tree for gas. Where are those oil
cans weve been saving?
For a few minutes the men clattered around the
kitchen. Then footsteps came down the hallway.
Both girls sprang up beside the womans cot and
pretended to be busy.
How you doing? said Don, almost genially.
Say, Blondie, why are your hands shaking so bad?
Vicki could not control the trembling. She thrust
her hands in the pockets of her slacks.
Come on, Blondie, tell us whats on your mind?
Dont you like our little plan?
I dont know what youre talking about.
Sure you know. You were listening just now,
both of you. Thats okay. Saves me telling you all
over again.
Jake behind him zipped up his jacket. Whats the
matter, Blondie? Dont you want to stay here like a
good girl? Poor old Jody needs you.
Vicki bit her lip to keep from speaking. She was
afraid she might blurt out her disgust, her anger at
their stealing Bills plane, and her fear at being
stranded with Ruth in this snowy wilderness with
the evil Jody.
Blondie doesnt like the idea of staying, Don
51

said ominously. You think too much. It isnt

healthy to think what youre thinking.
Jake muttered somethingVicki could not hear
whatand Don grunted, Yeah.
Before Vicki knew what was happening, Don
yanked her by the arm into the smaller bedroom and
slammed the door shut. A key turned in the lock.
Seconds later she heard Don saying, Both of you
know too much!
The door opened and Ruth came stumbling into
the room, off balance from the shove the men gave
her. The door closed instantly and the key clicked
again.
Well, at least were locked in together, Vicki
welcomed Ruth. Did they hurt you?
Bruises, probably. You, too?
Vicki sighed. A few bruises are the least of our
worries.
They know we dont believe the yarn that
theyre trappers.
A voice calling startled both girls until they
realized it was Jody. They heard the men tramp in
there, then heard talk and loud laughter. The voices
rose.
Oh, yes, we are, Jody! That was Jake. Well
send you a post card.
You cant cheat me out of my take!
Jody, Don bellowed, were getting out of here
52

once and for all. You can stay here another year in
this wilderness. But weve had enough! Were going
to enjoy our dough, back in civilization.
Of all the double-crossin tricks! Fly off with the
furs and leave me at the mercy of those kids! If I had
my gun, you wouldnt walk out of here so easy!
But you cant stop us from leaving. Dons
voice was cool and sarcastic now. Can you, old
girl?
The woman yelled in helpless rage. Then the girls
heard the men go into the kitchen, muttering. If I
had my gun Jody had said. Vicki wondered
whether the men were taking Jodys gun with them,
to make sure she did not spoil their getaway. Ruth
was thinking about the gun in a different aspect.
Vicki, are they actually going to leave herand
usunarmed in this wilderness?
It was Vickis turn to shiver. Id hate to think of
some of the other ring members showing up tonight
at this cabin. Or a bear breaking in a window, for
that matter.
Theyre leavingat least, theyre leaving to get
gasoline.
Vicki stationed herself beside a window. Wed
better watch and see which direction Don and Jake
take, Vicki said. The direction to Pine Tree, I
mean.
The room had two windows, one at the side of the
53

cabin and one at the rear. Presently Vicki saw the

two men come past the side window and continue
ahead in that direction. They were pulling the sleigh;
this time it held several five-and-ten-gallon
stoppered tins. The men were traveling, Vicki noted,
in the direction away from the waterfall. They
disappeared among the trees.
Ruth was shivering. I wish the kitchen fireplace
opened into this room, too. They were just in back
of the kitchen. Vicki, whatever are we going to do,
if the men dont come back and unlock this door?
They told Jody theyre going to have us nurse her,
but suppose they were lying and dont come back?
Suppose Don and Jake just leave us locked in here
to starve?
We dont know what Don and Jake are going to
do next. Or Jody either. Ive been studying this
window, Vicki said. This is our chance to break
out of here, with the two men gone. At least we
know the direction of the village now.
Do you think we could force a window open?
Lets try.
Quietly, because Jody might be able to get up,
Vicki and Ruth strained together to open the side
window. It was tightly shut and nailed against the
cold.
Lets see if we can budge the back window,
Vicki said.
54

They pushed together, attempting to move the

window from this angle or that. But the rear
window, too, was nailed.
Whew! Ruth blew on her skinned hands. What
about smashing the glass?
The girls thoughtfully examined the windows.
They were very small. Even if they could smash the
glass, with the heel of a shoe, they took two risks.
First, Jody might hear them and Ruth believed she
was not too ill to get up and walk in a pinch.
Second, even if the woman did not hear them, the
window was so small that unless they could remove
every last splinter of glass, whichever girl wriggled
through would be badly cut.
Perhaps you have some sharp, fine instrument in
your nursing kit, Vicki suggested.
The kit is in Jodys room, Ruth said glumly.
Anyway, theres no sharp instrument in it except a
pair of bandage scissors, or a probe. Unless you
want to try to use the syringe needles?
No, thanks. I have a small screw driver and
flashlight in my pocket. Our best bet is to get a
window open with the screw driver. Im fairly handy
with tools. It seems to me the back window isnt
nearly as tight as the side one.
I noticed that, too. Want me to help you? Ruth
offered.
Youd better keep watch at the side window, so
55

well have warning in case Don and Jake come

back. If I need a hand, Ill ask you.
Vicki set to work. She had keen eyesight, and
patience. She needed both. If only her fingers
werent so cold and stiff, she might not be so
maddeningly slow. After fifteen minutes of probing,
she had the sense to rub her hands, put on her gloves
for a few minutes to get her fingers limbered up.
Poor Vicki, Ruth said.
Poor you, too. Well, were trying. I think Im
loosening the window a tiny bit.
By systematically wedging the screw drivers thin
wedge between window and frame, she did get it
loosened to some degree. Next came the problem of
removing the nails, no easy task with a screw driver.
Cant I do anything for you? Ruth asked.
Afraid this is a job for one person, Vicki
grunted. By bracing the screw driver at an angle
under the base of a nail, and tugging and pushing
and digging into the soft pine wood, she could
loosen the nail. Then, to her relief, as she kept at it,
the nail wobbled like a loose tooth. She was able to
pull the nail out with her fingers.
Look, Ruth! Ive got one out!
How many more nails are there?
Three. And the afternoon is growing darker.
Why, Vicki, youve been working there almost
an hour.
56

I have? I had no idea. Well, Ill start on another

nail. Where do you suppose Don and Jake are all
this time?
Not a sound out of Jody, either. She must be
asleep again. One of those fitful dozes.
If we dont escape from this locked room before
nightfall Vicki swallowed hard. Well, Im not
going to waste energy worrying. Im just going to
work.
She was making good progress on loosening the
second nail when Ruth said sharply:
Theyre coming! Get away from that window.
Lets lie down on the cots and pretend weve been
asleep.
The girls ran to the two cots. Vicki remembered
to thrust screw driver and the nail she had removed
into her pocket.
An hour or a little more, thats how long theyve
been gone, she figured aloud. That means the
village of Pine Tree is about half an hour away.
She and Ruth kept perfectly still. At any instant
they expected to hear the men in the kitchen, but
nothing happened. Minutes dragged by. The silence
in the cabin, and outside, was profound.
Are they putting the gasoline in the plane? Ruth
asked.
Probably. I just hope they dont fly off at any
minute.
57

Do you think they will?

Vicki reflected. Don said he was a pilot. Surely
he can see the Cub isnt equipped for night flights.
It isnt quite dusk yet, Ruth pointed out.
Theyre desperate men, and fed up with Jody. Is
there a chance theyll take off right away, and fly as
far as they can in the remaining daylight?
Vicki said, I didnt want to put that possibility
into words. They couldnt get far, without lights, but
certainly they could attempt a getaway. She looked
at her wrist watch. Fifteen minutes since you saw
them. Fifteen precious minutes that I could have
been working on the window.
Escape through the window was their only hope.
Still, the men might come back to the cabinmight
surprise them
You mustnt touch the window, Ruth
cautioned, unless and until you hear the Cub take
off.
I wont. But, Ruth, this is maddening! Im sure
that if I could spare another few minutes work,
wed have that window open.
They rested on the cots, straining to hear any
sounds of an engine. The snow and dense woods
seemed to deaden sounds. Only faint rippling notes
of the waterfall reached them.
Wed hear the plane if they took off, wouldnt
we? Ruth puzzled.
58

Yes, wed hear that all right.

They watched the shadows lengthen in the room.
Then, at last, the cabin door slammed and footsteps
brought the kitchen to life again. Vicki did not know
whether she felt more relieved or alarmed. Ruth, too,
seemed unable to think or move from the cot.
Someone unlocked their door and opened it. It
was Don, looking ruddy from being outdoors and
well pleased with himself.
Well, thats a nice little Piper Cub you brought
us. Real handy, and weve got her all fueled up and
ready to go.
Vicki opened her mouth to say the Cub wasnt
equipped for night flying, but she did not want to put
ideas in his head.
Whatve you two been doing for the last hour?
Don took a long, careful look around the bare room.
Weve been sleeping, Ruth said.
Oh, sure! That was the story you told me before.
You got any tools or a gun in here?
For a moment Vicki was afraid he was going to
search their pockets and handbags. To divert him
she said quickly:
Were chilly. Cant we each have a blanket?
The man ignored that. He turned away, smiling,
and locked them in again.
Good grief, Vicki, I cant figure from visit to
visit what those two men are planning to do.
59

Maybe they dont know themselves. All we can

do for now is wait, Vicki said despairingly.
They waited and listened. It was impossible to
guess what the men were doing and saying. Dusk
darkened the windows. Vicki felt tired and hungry.
It doesnt sound, she said slowly to Ruth, as if
theyre getting furs out of the closet, does it?
No. Youd think theyd be doing thatunless
they dont plan to leave before nightfall.
If they have a nearby place where its safe for
them to land and spend the night, theyll take off at
any minute, Vicki figured.
Oh, if theyd only stayed away a little longer!
We might have gotten that window open, Ruth
sighed.
Lets not torment ourselves with ifs.
Ssh! Isnt that the womans voice?
Jody evidently was stirring. Vicki and Ruth
exchanged hopeful glances. Perhaps the men would
want them to attend to Jodywould let them out of
this room. Once out, they might have a wild, stray
piece of luck . . . the voices beyond the door rose in
argument.
wouldnt treat a dog the way youre treatin
me! Leavin me here, hurt like this
We told you, JodyJakes voice was
righteouswere goin to stay the night here. We
wont leave until mornin. Okay?
60

You arent stayin over on my account. I can bet

on that!
Don laughed, and pretended some concern for
her. Listen, if that plane had landing lights and a
radio wed take you to a hospital right away.
So that was it. No lights, no radio in the Cub; they
had to wait until morning to fly out. Vicki dreaded
further meetings tonight with Jodys brother and
husband, but in a way, their staying overnight had
one advantage. At least the plane still waited in the
clearing. Fueled, now. The plane was the allimportant factor, the key to possible escape.
The little room was growing dark. Ruth said if
she did not have some food soon, or at least a hot
drink, she would be utterly exhausted. Both girls
beat on the locked door.
What dyou want? Jake yelled at them.
Were hungry! And cold!
They heard Don say, Might as wellthe nurse,
anyway. The door opened halfway.
Nurse, you come out and fix yourself something
to eat. Blondies next.
Click went the lock.
Ruth was mercifully quick. Readmitted in a few
minutes, she had a little more vigor in her steps, a
blanket around her shoulders. She managed to
whisper to Vicki:
Theres coffee and bread and cheese. I tried to
61

slip some extra bread in my pocket but

Quit whisperin and come on out here, Blondie!
We aint got all night, Jake ordered.
In the hallway, passing the closet and Jodys
room, and then in the kitchen, Vicki glanced quickly
around. But everything was as she had last seen it.
Jake watched her in the kitchen. He barely gave her
time to swallow a cup of scalding coffee, then
handed her a slab of bread and cheese, and a
blanket.
Now back you go!
The room was nearly pitch black as Vicki
stumbled back in. She sat down beside Ruth, to eat
the bread and cheese. They tried to encourage each
other, pointing out that the moon would rise soon.
Well be able to see when moonlight reaches
this side of the cabin, Ruth murmured. Whenever
that is. Itll be nearly the full moon, and thats
bright. I wish theyd let us have one of the kerosene
lamps, though.
Wasnt there one in here?
I think Jake carried it out. They arent taking any
chances with us.
I wish, Vicki said, sniffing, that theyd give us
some of the ham and eggs theyre cooking for
themselves. Well, I suppose were lucky that we got
any food at all.
Both girls sat silent. Vicki was thinking of home,
62

of the safe, clean, decent home where her family at

this hour was sitting down to dinner. Ruth sighed.
Was she, too, thinking of home? Or perhaps of the
brother she had hoped to help.
Darkness made the room eerie. Outdoors was
brighter than in here. The wind blew mists of
powdery snow against the windows, and the snowladen trees stood like mysterious sentries. The
endless song of the waterfall bubbled on and on,
interrupted only by the three sullen voices. In such
loneliness it was almost possible, Vicki mused, to
believe in the legend of the waterfall. The ghost
which appeared at midnight of each full moon . . .
Ruth, leaning suddenly and heavily against Vicki,
had dozed off.
Poor Ruth, Vicki thought. Im responsible for
getting you into thisas far as anyone is responsible
for such a weird turn of events. Vicki promised
herself that if any risks had to be taken, she, not
Ruth, would face them. She sat perfectly still, letting
Ruth snatch a few minutes sleep. As for herself, she
dared not sleep while the three beyond the door were
awake.
About an hour later Ruth was summoned to treat
Jodys shoulder. Ruth insisted that she needed
Vickis help, but in vain. The men were not taking
the slightest chance. Ruth was not gone over twenty
minutes. Then both girls were locked in againfor
63

the night, Don told them. Youre lucky were

letting you sleep on cots instead of the floor.
Did you learn anything new? Vicki whispered.
No. Theyre getting ready to turn in for the
night. Do you think its safe for us to sleep, too?
Ruth answered herself. But we have to sleep, were
worn out!
Lets sleep for a while, anyway, Vicki
whispered. She sank down on the cot, fully dressed,
and drew the blanket over her. Perhaps the night
would pass without incident, if they were lucky.

64

CHAPTER V

Middle of the Night

Vicki woke, the room was filled with shadows. The

cabin was quiet, except for snores. Vicki fumbled
for her pencil-size flashlight and looked at her wrist
watch. Three thirty.
She was wide awake, her mind clear and senses
alert, as if she had been waked by some deliberate
plan. Ruth on the opposite cot was asleep. Vicki
reached out and gently shook her.
Ssh as Ruth started to speak. Wake up.
Heres our chance.
Wha-at? What time is it? Ruth whispered.
Vicki told her. Outdoors snow was falling and
blowing.
Ruth, are you awake now? Enough to try to
escape? Yes.
The girls sat up and Vicki moved over to Ruths
cot. They could not quite see each other. Vicki was
conserving the flashlight battery.
Listen, Ruth. Theyre all snoring! Shall we try to
65

pick the lock on our door? Itd be easier to walk out

the door than get the window open.
Sounds like someones sleeping in the kitchen.
Jake, probably.
We could tiptoe past him, and open the cabin
door very, very quietly, Vicki whispered.
Yes, then what? Oh, lets get busywe can
figure that out while we work. I have the kit with me
now.
They crept to the doorknob, knelt, and Ruth
beamed the flashlights small ray at the lock. With
the utmost caution Vicki examined the lock. It
seemed to her a surprisingly good, strong lock for
this crude cabinin fact, it was unusual for a cabin
in the wilderness to have locks on its room doors.
No wonder, though. The smugglers kept valuable
furs in this cabin.
Can you use a hairpin? Ruth whispered. Or the
scissors, or the wooden end of a swab stick?
Vicki tried her screw driver, then all of Ruths
implements, then the screw driver again. Each time,
the metal clicked, only a bit, but any scratching
noise was risky. The lock refused to give. Vicki
even tried using her fingernails, then the nail she had
removed from the window. Nothing worked. She got
up off her aching knees.
Weve wasted enough time on the door, she
whispered to Ruth. Lets try the window.
66

Slowly, cautiously, they felt their way across the

dark room. What Vicki thought was a pool of
shadow turned out to be one of the cots; she
accidentally sent it skidding with a scraping noise.
The girls stood frozen. At any minute one of the
three might come in here! Vickis heart was
pounding. But nothing happened. No one came.
They inched their way slowly to the rear window.
The window was less dark than the interior of the
room. A dim illumination reflected from the
whiteness of the snow outside. Somewhere the
moon must be swimming in and out of clouds. At
least Vicki could make out the outline of the
window and see her hands moving as she felt for the
second nail.
Here it is, Ruth. Turn on the flashlight.
She had already partly loosened the second nail
earlier. Vicki made a discovery. Now that it was
night and snowing, the temperature was milder;
besides, their afternoons tampering had helped. The
window itself seemed stuck less fast, particularly
this rear window on the sheltered side of the cabin.
They still had plenty of work to do in removing
the nails, though. After Vicki maneuvered the
second one out, Ruth took a turn. She was unhandy,
though, so Vicki reaching up now, dug at the base of
the second and third nails. They were not driven in
deep, and after thirty minutes of concentrated patient
67

work, out they came.

Congratulations! Ruth whispered.
Not so fast. First lets see if the window will
open. We wont need the light for this.
With great care they first tapped the windows
wooden frame, softly, every inch of it. It did feel as
if the window were loosening here and there.
Now! said Vicki. Both girls braced themselves
and, grasping the windows bottom and middle
crossbars, they strained to open it. It did not budge.
Its so small! Its hard to get a good grip, Vicki
complained in a whisper.
Be careful not to wrench your back. Now!
They lifted and pushed again. The window slid
open about two inches. Both girls were panting.
They rested a minute, then tried a third time.
This time the window slid up as far as it could go.
That was halfway.
Vicki looked at the small opening in despair. The
entire window was about the size of a bathroom
window. A cat could comfortably leap through, but
it would be painful going for a girl to wriggle
through. Even for a small girl like Vicki.
We could do it, Ruth murmured doubtfully.
Wed have to crawl through on our sides.
Well, we have to get through there. Theres no
alternative.
Now we come to the hard part, and Vicki
68

actually managed to grin.

Now that they had the window open they faced
another question. What should their course be next?
Its obvious, Ruth whispered. We run to the
plane and take off immediately.
If only we could!
But the plane is thereall fueled upits our
ace in the hole, isnt it?
Vicki had to explain to Ruth why their escape
was not going to be so simple. The plane had been
standing outdoors for hours and its engine was cold.
The gasoline the men had put in the tank was cold
too; by this time the gas might be semifrozen and
would not run through the pipe lines. It would take
probably five or even ten minutes of running the
engine, simply to warm it up enough to begin to
gather power for a takeoff. Then they would have to
sit in the reverberating plane for another five or
more minutes while the ship built up enough power
to lift itselfand enough power to climb and to stay
aloft. Otherwise, they would be in danger of
crashing back to earth.
In all that time on the ground, Vicki whispered,
the engine would be roaring. The noise would wake
up Don and Jake, and theyd come running.
With guns. They surely have guns, they
mentioned a gun. And theyd force us out of the
plane. Ruth sighed. No. I see my plan wont
69

work.
How to use the plane was a poser. Both girls tried
to think. In Vickis minds eye she saw a regular
diagram of the planes mechanism, as if the Cub
were actually within reach of her hand. It almost
was! But Ruth came up with an entirely different
idea.
Suppose we dont use the plane at all?
What! Abandon Bills planecut off our best
hope of escape?
But theres no way we can safely use the plane
between now and daybreak. At daybreak the men fly
off, leaving us here. The only time we have is
between now and daybreak, Ruth pointed out. So I
propose we forget about the plane, and try to get
away on foot.
Wed be hopelessly lost in the snow, Vicki
said. We havent a compass, there are no stars out
tonight to guide us
You left your map in the plane. Cant we use the
map to help us find our way to Pine Tree? At least
you have a rough idea of where we came down, and
with the map
Ruth, an air map isnt anything like an ordinary
map. My air map shows big landmarks, to watch for
from the airrivers, mountains, airports, main
highwaysand incidentally we arent near one
railroad tracks, big towns. It doesnt show things
70

like roads and villages.

Ruth said, Oh, in such a disappointed tone that
Vicki touched her shoulder.
Just imagine, Ruth, our walking in the Canadian
wilderness, at night, in the snow and the moon
clouded over. The air map wouldnt help.
Couldnt we find Pine Tree by ourselves?
Trying to find it would mean wed have to
wander at night in falling snow. Do you really want
to do that? Wed have to start through the woods
No, wandering wont do. The men might follow
us, anyway.
It was cold in the room with the window open,
but neither girl was willing to close it and perhaps
not get it open again. Vicki pressed her finger hard
across her upper lip, to keep back a sneeze, and
thought again about the plane. There it stood
salvation within a short walkand they dared not
fly it out of here! What a pity, what a lost
opportunity, to let the men have it! Vicki
remembered something her father sometimes said
about going between the horns of a dilemma.
I think I have an idea, she whispered to Ruth.
As long as we cant fly out in the plane ourselves,
at least we might keep the men from using it.
How do you mean?
Well, if we could delay them, perhaps we could
prevent their getaway altogether. The important
71

thing is not to let Don and Jake make off with the
plane. Because if were left stranded here without
the plane
wed be in more trouble than we are now.
Yes, I see. Wed never reach my brother with any
speed, either.
If we could even delay them from taking off,
Vicki continued, a delay might give us a chance to
slip awayby daylight, I meanto Pine Tree for
help.
It would have to be at least an hours delay.
I could drain the gas out of the planeI could
go out there right now and do that. That would stop
them. No, thats no good, Vicki corrected herself.
Theyd know at once wed done it. Besides, we
may urgently need that gasoline ourselves.
Isnt there some other way you could tinker with
the plane?
I could disconnect some wires. Vicki felt a
surge of hope as the idea came to her. I have it! I
could remove the rotor from the distributor! The
rotor is a little cylinder about two and a half inches
by one and a half incheseasy to take out and
replace. With the rotor gone, the gasoline wouldnt
flow through the pipe line, it would just stay in the
gas tank. The plane would be stalled. Wow! Ruth!
Thats it!
Oh, Im so glad you thought of it!
72

The idea was half yours. Now, would they

monkey around with the plane long enough to give
us time to walk toor towardthe village?
Ruth said that was a chance they had to take.
Surely it would take Don and Jake some time to try
to start the plane, and then examine the plane
mechanism before they located the cause of the
stalling.
It was not likely that they would hit on the cause
at once, Vicki agreed. It could take the men a short
time or a long time to discover the rotor was out
that was pure chance. But in whatever time it took,
the girls, aided by daylight, could strike out toward
the village or a road, for help.
Vicki was so elated over keeping possession of
the plane that it gave her courage for her next,
dangerous step.
I hate to see you go out there in the forest
alone, Ruth admitted.
Now, none of that! Dont put scary ideas into
my head.
Wouldnt it be better if I come with you, Vicki?
I dont see how it would help. Ruth hesitated.
Suppose you dont come back?
There was a pause. It was an alarming prospect.
Whats a reasonable time for you to be gone?
Ruth asked.
Twenty minutes. Or twenty-five. Ill try to hurry
73

both ways, if the snow will let me. Taking out the
rotor wont require more than three or four minutes,
tops.
Wellif you say sobut I dont like it.
Whos the pilot in charge here? Vicki
whispered cheerfully. Anyway, I have a good sense
of direction, and a flashlight.
They had a difficult time easing Vicki through the
small window. She had to take off her parka because
its extra bulk impeded her. Edging along headfirst,
on her side, Vicki wriggled painfully through. She
had to manage a slight drop to the ground, and
scraped her shins, even through the slacks, but she
made it. Ruth tossed the parka out the window to
her. Vicki put the jacket on, taking a moment to
catch her breath and find her bearings.
How different everything looked from outside the
cabin! The night was much denser than she had
estimated, now that she was out in it, and the sky
seemed very high and far away. As Vicki turned the
corner of the cabin, snowflakes blew softly against
her face, a light, powdery fall. The cold was still and
biting, thoughshe must hurry. How harmless the
cabin looked from out here!
Remembering the way which she and Ruth had
come this afternoon, Vicki picked her way along the
side of the cabin. Each step was catlike, delicate, lest
her footsteps crunch in the snow and be heard. So
74

far, so good.
When she came near the cabin door, Vicki
flattened herself against the wall and listened. If the
men heard her, she did not want to move ahead
within range of the kitchens front window and the
larger bedrooms front window. An easy target,
thats what she would be. But no one stirred inside,
at least as far as she could hear.
How to break away from the cabincat-tread or
run ahead into the trees? Well, pussyfooting had
served her well so far. Lightly, with the pounding of
her heart sounding loud in her ears, Vicki inched her
way toward the trees. The bare branches stretched
out almost as if to shield her. If bear or other wild
beasts roamed in here, at least they could be no more
vicious than the trio sleeping in the cabin.
A few steps more, and she was completely
surrounded by trees. If she paused to look around,
the maze would surely confuse her. Just
remember, Vicki told herself, that Ruth and I
walked in a fairly straight line away from the
planekeep going! Doggedly she kept to the
remembered direction, weaving in and out among
the trees. She memorized a fallen log, twin trees, a
small hollow as she went. Occasionally Vicki
switched on the flashlight for an instant, wherever
the footing was tricky.
In less than ten minutes she gained the clearing.
75

There stood the plane, as peaceful as if nothing had

happened.
It gave Vicki an odd sensation to poke into the
familiar engine, using the same screw driver she
always did. If she kept her eyes only on the engine
and blotted out where she was, it felt almost as if all
of todays events were a bad dream. Wearing Bills
scarf deepened the illusion thatalmost
everything was as usual, or would be in a moment.
A dangerous trick of the imagination! Vicki
pulled herself together. She must be very tired to
dream at a time like this. Thank heavens, she noted,
her hands had been busy disconnecting the rotor
meanwhile.
She put the rotor into her slacks pocket. Mission
accomplished. For a second Vicki gazed at the white
still beauty of the northern night. The sound of the
waterfall was like bells. But now to return to the
cabin, unseen
Her own tracks in the snow showed her the way
back. She ran silently, using her flashlight a little
more frequently. The falling snow would soon cover
her footprints. She made it to within sight of the
cabin.
Then she ducked out of the trees at a point where
she could skirt Dons and Jakes windows. Was that
a light in the cabin? Vicki trembled. No, just a stray
reflection on a windowpane. She slipped silently
76

around to the open back window. Ruth stood there,

waiting for her.
Vicki! All right?
Yes. Give me a hand. First take my parka.
She squeezed through the window. Together she
and Ruth inched it shut. Then both girls lay down on
their cots, worn out. They were safefor the
moment. Vicki fell into a deep, troubled sleep.

77

CHAPTER VI

Go or Stay?

Was it daylight or quarreling voices that aroused

her? Vicki pushed herself up on the cot, yawning.
Seven oclock. It had stopped snowing. She felt
warm and rested; only her barked shins reminded
her of the nights adventure.
Then she saw that Ruth was awake, lying there
with her eyes wide open, listening to the quarrel.
The girls smiled at each other.
I didnt want to wake you, Ruth murmured.
Have you been awake long? What are they
doing?
Ruth rolled over so she and Vicki could whisper
close together. She said Don had been taunting Jody
about her past tyranny, and jeering at her present
helplessness. Jake had aired his saved-up
grievances, and his share of gloating.
But what are they doing? Vicki insisted.
The two men were moving back and forth
between kitchen and hallway, in and out of the
cabin. Theyd been tramping around for some time
78

now, Ruth said.

Maybe fixing breakfast. Ruth sniffed hungrily
at the odor of coffee brewing. Or maybe getting the
furs out of the closet and into bundles for the plane.
Vicki listened to the cabin door bang open. It
sounded, from their footsteps, grunts, and shouts, as
if Jake and Don were carrying bundles of pelts out
to the sleigh, and loading and lashing these to the
sleigh. Of course that would be it!preparatory to
loading the furs onto the plane. Vicki smiled to
herself and relaxed again on the cot.
Vicki, are you famished? I am.
Starved. Never mind. Pretty soon now we can
make a break for freedom.
The minute we hear those two start off for the
plane! Wed better first make sure we hear them say
good-by to Jody. Vicki wouldnt it be wonderful if
they let us out of this locked room before they
leave?
To let us take care of the woman, you mean?
Yes, but lets not hope for too much.
What the girls could hear did not encourage them.
The woman leader was complaining loudly about
being abandoned. The men answered her with
laughs. They were bolder with her than last night,
now that they were actually on their way.
Ill tell her something shell like, came Dons
bitter voice. This will console you, Jody. More
79

deliveries are due soon.

I know that! the woman yelled. But if you
think, hurt like I am, that I can
Why, were leaving so that the next haul will be
all yours!
Vicki pricked up her ears. Deliveries of what?
What haul? Dons remark could only mean furs, to
be delivered. By whom? She remembered how the
men yesterday referred to the others. That must
mean other members of the ring.
If I ever catch up with you, the woman howled,
youll pay up for this!
Youll never see us again if we can help it, Don
told her. His voice faded; he was going out to the
sleigh.
So long, Jody! Dont be lonesome.
Jake tramped past the girls door, through the
kitchen, then the cabin door banged again. Vicki and
Ruth looked at each other in confusion. Had the men
forgotten about their two prisoners? Did they plan to
leave the two girls locked in indefinitely? With an
open window it didnt matter, but still
Theyll come in here, youll see, Vicki
breathed. Theyll check up on us.
She and Ruth sat up, wrapping themselves in
blankets, and waited. In spite of the reassuring fact
that she and Ruth could open a window in here,
Vicki was tense.
80

Five minutes later they heard a key scrape in the

lock of their door. Dons bearded face appeared as
the door swung open. Jake came in with him; both
men wore outdoor clothing.
Well, kids! And how are we this morning? Not
so sassy as yesterday, huh?
Ruth glared at Jake and his offensive grin. To
Vickis relief, she made no answer. Don was not
wasting time on talk, either.
Stand up! he ordered. Never mind wearing the
blankets. Stand up!
The girls stood up readily, hiding their elation.
This was a break! The men were going to release
them in order to take care of Jodyand that meant
they could walk out the front door instead of
struggling through the window. It meant they could
gain several minutes earlier start toward the
village
All right, Jake, hand me the rope.
What? Vicki cried out.
What are you going to do to us? Ruth
demanded.
Turn around, both of you
Both girls backed away as fast and far as they
could. Don came right after them, several short
lengths of rope swinging in his hands. Ruth was
making for the windowa telltale thing to do, Vicki
thought, as she ducked out of Dons reach.
81

Jake, grab the nurse! Ill take care of Blondie.

The man seized Vicki, spun her around, and
despite her thrashing, forced her arms behind her
back. He bound her wrists tightly together with rope.
Sit down! Don ordered her.
I wont! She saw Jake tying Ruths wrists
behind her, Ruth struggling uselessly.
You sit down, Blondie, or Ill push you down!
Vicki sat down on the cot.
Stick out your feet!
She gave Don a hard kick and tucked her feet
under the cot. He laughed, as if a gnat had brushed
him.
Smart aleck, arent you? Youve got nothing to
be smart alecky about.
You dont know about the window, Vicki
thought. But then the rope burned against her wrists
and bit into her ankles, as Don finished tying it.
Much good the window would do her and Ruth
now! Vickis courage ebbed. She slumped on the
cot.
Ruth was kicking furiously. It took both men to
tie her ankles tightly together. They pushed Ruth
and she went stumbling onto the cot.
Thats so you two wont try to run off, Don
remarked. There are two too many people who
know about this placewe mean you.
Jake chuckled. Ill bet Blondie bein a pilot
82

knows all about givin alarms and makin smoke

signals. Lets see you send a smoke signal now!
Don half smiled at them. In case you had any
ideas of going to Pine Tree or hailing a Mountie or
some other fur trapper At this the men burst into
loud guffawsWell, you can forget it. These
ropesll keep you right here.
Vicki was in such despair that she was unable to
speak. Ruth, whose fury kept her going, demanded:
How long are we supposed to stay tied up here?
We dont know. Or care.
The knots in the rope were tight, Vicki knew.
Are you coming back here? Ruth pressed.
Do you think were crazy? Weve got nothing
here to come back for. Don walked out.
Vicki roused herself enough to think that Don and
Jake might come back to the cabin, at that. Suppose
when they discovered that the plane would not leave
the ground, they came running back to demand an
explanationfrom her. Then what?
One thing is certain, Vicki thought. If they
come back here, angry about the plane, I dont want
to be tied up. I dont want to be here at all.
If she and Ruth could loosen each others
bondsif the men took enough time to walk to the
plane, load the furs on board, fuss with getting
started, then examine the plane!
So long, chicks. Jake grinned at them from the
83

door. Wish us happy landings!

Slam went the door. Then the cabins outside
door slammed.
For the first few seconds, the two girls could only
stare at each other. The utter callousness of the two
men left them horror-struck. It sounded as if Jody
was trying to get out of bed, trying to stop the men.
The womans shrieks across the hall made Vicki feel
a little sick. Then she remembered what she and
Ruth had to do.
Ruth knew without being told. She and Vicki
wriggled their wrists and ankles, straining against
the ropes. It was a painful business; Don and Jake
had done a good job. The ropes were firm, the knots
tight.
Get up and turn around, Ruth said to Vicki.
Maybe I can loosen your knot with my teeth.
But when Vicki did so, Ruth saw that she could
not. Well just have to keep at it this way. Maybe
the knots will slip a little.
They concentrated on loosening the ropes that
bound their wrists. Precious minutes were slipping
away. The girls had no need to wonder what Don
and Jake were doing. Even though no sounds except
the waterfall reached the cabin, the girls could
reconstruct the mens movements. By now they
must have reached the clearing and probably were
busy transferring bundles of fur pelts from sleigh to
84

plane.
I think my knots are easing a bit, Ruth said.
I think mine are, too. Lets keep trying.
Isnt Jody awfully quiet? Unless shes dozed
off
Never mind her, Vicki said. Weve got to get
these ropes off, and get out of the cabin, before the
men come back here.
She had never worked so hard at anything in her
life. Ruth, too, was struggling in silence, her face
screwed up with the effort she was making.
Its slippinga little more, Ruth said shakily.
Me, too. Ill tell you what, Ruth. Lets stand
back to back. Lets see if I can pick at your knots.
The girls stood up and hobbled back to back.
Vicki muttered that if she was skillful with tools,
there was no reason she couldnt be skillful using
her fingers. Fingers often were the best tools.
Am I hurting you? Vicki asked over her
shoulder.
Thats all right. Go on. The rope does feel
looser.
If I could only see what Im doing!
She kept at it until at long last Ruth exclaimed
she thought she could wriggle free now. Vicki
hobbled around to watch.
Ruth tugged. Finally she wrenched her right hand
out, and dropped the noose on the floor.
85

Vicki held out her wrists. The nurse picked open

the knot. Now the girls worked at their ankle
shackles. In a couple of minutes they released
themselves.
Thank heavens! Ruth said.
Ssh. Jody might How far along do you
suppose Don and Jake are?
Her wrist watch told her that the men had been
gone long enough to have loaded the furs on the
plane by now. Possibly long enough to discover that
the plane would not start properly, nor start at all.
Wed better be on our way! Vicki warned. She
went to the door to listen for any sound from the
woman leaders room. There was none. Then Vicki
realized she had, without thinking, rested her hand
on the doorknob and it was turning freely!
Ruth, look! They didnt lock us in this last
time!
We might see from the kitchen windows if the
men are coming back.
The girls rushed soundlessly past Jodys room
and into the kitchen. They posted themselves
alongside the kitchens two front windows. Ruth
poked her and handed Vicki some bread and cheese.
Found it on the table, and Ruth took a bite of
her own share. Can you see anything? she
whispered.
Not yet. Though its hard to see through the
86

treesat least from in here

The morning was clear, good flying weather. The
sun came out enough to cause a glare on the snow.
I cant see a thing. Well have to go outdoors,
Ruth decided.
It was risky, Vicki knew, but no more risky than
having Jody discover them. No telling what the
woman leader might do, injured or not. Wed better
each stand behind a tree, so the men wont see us in
case they come back. Vicki touched the rotor in her
pocket.
And wed better go far enough into the forest so
Jody cant see us, in case she wanders out of bed.
Can she?
Shes strong.
Got your kit, Ruth?
Oh!
Ruth fled back softly to the room which had been
their prison. It seemed to Vicki an endless interval
until Ruth made it safely past the womans door
again, kit in hand.
Thought I heard her snore.
Or playing possum. Lets get out of here.
They ran crazily fast through the snow, well into
the rim of the woods. Coming to two huge oak trees,
they clung to the trunks. The girls still could not see
anyone, but outdoors they could hear. Not just the
waterfall, eithervoices. Or rather, blurred echoes
87

of the mens shouts. They sounded exasperated.

Dare they wait here? Vicki wondered. If the men
came along, she and Ruth could try to melt away
into the woods. Except for their footprints in the
snow But it would be folly to start out blindly for
Pine Tree, leaving tracks, unless they knew where
the men had gone. Suppose Don, who was once a
pilot, could not find what was stalling the plane?
What would the men do then? Vicki thought that
their shouts were growing fainter, dying away.
Ruth, can you hear anything now?
The nurse listened carefully. Only the waterfall.
They might be talking quietly, though.
Lets give them a few minutes more and then
sneak up to the clearing.
Ruths expression changed as if she disapproved
of the idea. But when Vicki cautiously glided
forward, Ruth followed.
Moving carefully, they were slow in approaching
the clearing. Vicki gestured to Ruth to stay back.
They froze in their tracks and listened. Vicki could
glimpse, through this last fringe of trees, the Cub
still standing there, and farther on, sparkling in the
early-morning sun, the crest of the waterfall. Once a
load of snow crashed from a branch to the earth, as
the sun thawed it. Icicles were dripping down the
trunks in rivulets. But as for the sight of a human
figure, or the sound of a voicenothing!
88

89

I dont see the sleigh, Ruth whispered.

Why, that means they Lets see what the
sleigh tracks can tell us. Careful, now.
Vicki, followed by Ruth, crept forward in a
crouch. Coming to the very edge of the trees, she
peered out into the clearing. A confusion of
footprints surrounded the plane. But the sleigh
tracks, together with a straight line of the mens
footprints, led out of the clearing in the other
direction!
Theyve gone! Vicki gasped. Theyve gone
ahead on foot, dragging the sleigh! You see? They
couldnt figure whats wrong with the plane, so they
fell back on their usual method.
Jakes voice came back to her from yesterday:
We cant wait. The snows melting. Weve got to
hurry while the rivers still frozen.
Ruth, standing on tiptoe, reported she could not
see any bundles of furs in the plane. She seemed
bewildered, as if afraid to believe in their good
fortune.
Its all right, Ruth, Vicki said in enormous
relief. Don and Jake have gone, and you and I are
free to use the plane now.
We can fly out of here! Oh, Vicki, and tears
came to Ruths eyes.
Still half disbelieving, still half afraid that the
men might be lying in wait for them behind trees,
90

the girls ventured out into the open clearing. Here

the long sleigh tracks and the undisturbed footprints
confirmed their hopes.
The Cubs door stood open. Wisps of fur and
rope clung to the plane doorway. Vicki inferred that
the men had loaded the furs on the plane, then
removed them to the sleigh again, when the plane
would not start.
Just think, Vicki, were free to fly off at once.
We can be at James Bay today! Onlythe
woman
Yes. Theres Jody. Is it humane to leave her
alone in the wilderness? Granted that people like
these dont deserve much consideration, but even
so
What worries me is that an infection could
develop in the bullet woundtetanus. And her
shock yesterday could lead to pneumonia. Only a
doctor can diagnose Ruth frowned. On the other
hand theres my brother. He needs my care at least
as much as Jody.
Vicki reflected. And there is no one around
whom we could notify about her.
They debated whether to walk to Pine Tree.
However, the men had said there was no doctor in
these parts, and perhaps that was true. Would a
neighbor woman help? But Vicki suspected the
people living in Pine Tree either did not know about
91

the smugglers or did not like whatever they knew.

Besides, said Vicki, what right have we to
shunt the responsibility for Jody onto somebody
else? At least lets go back to the cabin and see how
she is.
The rotor?
I wont replace it until were ready to take off.
Vicki patted her slacks pocket. The rotor is safe.
How do we know Don and Jake still arent
around? Ruth asked nervously.
I dont think so. They couldnt wait to get away
from the woman. Pretty callous, to abandon her!
As the girls made their way back, Ruth said she
could make the woman comfortable, set out food
and water within easy reach, and stock up the stove
in her bedroom.
I think shed be safe by herself for a day or two.
Shes husky, strong as a man. In a days time we
could find a doctor to attend her. Perhaps at the
mines. Ive just got to get up there to my brother.
If I fly you to the mines, does that mean I fly the
doctor back herewithout you?
I know thats a lot to ask, Ruth pleaded, but
Bob is pretty badly injured. Can you think of any
alternatives?
No, I cant, Vicki said reluctantly. She could
not humanely refuse. So it was settled.
Within a day or two Jody should be on her feet
92

again, Ruth encouraged. You wont have to stay

here with her. Just bring a doctor.
Id like to go to the mines for another reason,
Vicki said. Itll be a chance to contact the police
there must be some outpost or communications
there.
At the cabin they found Jody awake and in a
sullen temper. The girls washed her face and hands,
and gave her some breakfast. Then Ruth removed
the bandage and inspected the injured shoulder. She
thought it was coming along all right; she cleansed it
again with an antiseptic solution and applied a fresh
dressing. Vicki suggested remaking the womans
bed or moving her into the other cot, but Jody
crossly refused.
I know you mean well, I appreciate it. But just
leave me alone, will you?
Do you really want us to leave you aloneto
leave you here by yourself? Ruth asked curiously.
The woman muttered to herself. They could not
make out what she was saying.
Shes sick and unreasonable, the nurse
whispered to Vicki. Well have to make the
decision for her.
Jody, said Vicki. Jody, isnt there some
woman in the village, or some neighbor, who could
come to take care of you?
No. I wish you wouldnt ask me questions.
93

Were only trying to help you, Vicki said.

Isnt there a doctor around here to treat your
shoulder?
Drat the doctor! All doctors. Quit askin me a lot
of questions.
Do you expect anyone to come to the cabin
soon? Vicki asked. She was thinking of the mens
remark that morning that a delivery was due soon.
Jody glared at her. No ones comin here.
Well, at least tell us whom to notify in case you
get worse, Ruth said.
Dont pry, I told you!
Do you want to be left here alone, sick and
helpless?
So thats how youre plannin to treat me! Jody
grumbled. I thought women had a little more
feelin than those two no-good men. If theyd left
me my gun, I wouldnt let you go.
Were not deserting you, Vicki said. Listen to
me, will you? Were only going to leave you long
enough to find a doctor. Then Ill bring the doctor
back here.
The woman stared at them from glazed eyes. The
girls could not tell whether she understood or not.
They did everything they could to make her
comfortable, bringing food and water.
Good-by, Jody, said Vicki. Ill be back.
Maybe late today, maybe early tomorrow, but Ill be
94

back.
I hope somebody walks out on you, and leaves
you sometime, when youre sick!
It was useless to go on arguing with the woman.
The girls hastened to the clearing and the Cub.
While Ruth kept a lookout for any other gang
members who might possibly be in the area, Vicki
replaced the rotor in the distributor. She did a quick
but thorough line check.
Hurry up! Ruth urged her.
One minute more. All okay now. But Ill need
your help.
She showed Ruth how to spin the propeller, then
climbed in and turned on the ignition.
Ruth followed Vicki into the plane; Vicki
slammed the door shut. She thought the engine
would never warm up. The Cub had never been so
chilled, and so slow to build up power for a take-off.
Vicki kept her eyes peeled along the edge of the
woods, while at the same time she calculated the
wind direction and the length of the clearing.
There! The plane was ready. Vicki taxied the
plane in shallow S-turns along the clearing, headed
the plane into the wind, gave it full throttle, and they
rose into the air.
They climbed. They saw the waterfall sparkling
and tossing in the sun. Behind and below them, the
smugglers cabin was lost.
95

CHAPTER VII

Vicki Meets a Mountie

How peaceful it all looks below, Ruth said

ironically from the passengers seat. Nothing but
the snowy wilderness.
Dont worry. We wont get lost again, Vicki
called over her shoulder. Well be at the mines
soon.
The flight could take as little as two hours, at
most three or a bit more. She was eager to get to
James Bay. Reaching a large installation like the
nickel mines could mean reaching the Canadian
authorities, directly or indirectly. Vicki tried to plan
how to go about it. It was important to report their
experience to the police. She asked Ruth whether
Bob had written about any Royal Mounted Police
Station or outpost near the mines. Ruth could not
recall definitely much about that, beyond Bobs
having mentioned the Mounties and how a handful
of them patrolled this large, isolated area.
Well have to see what we can do when we get
96

there, Vicki decided. Surely well find some

help.
She felt relieved in advance, almost gay, even
though, as they flew north, the country grew harsher
and bleaker. This was mining, not farming, country.
Vicki remarked on how few signs of life and
settlements they saw.
Only a few Canadians up here, Ruth told her.
French Canadians. Rob wrote that a handful of
them clear the land of timber and brushlike
pioneers.
Any Indians? Vicki thought of the waterfall
legend.
Yes, some Indians. Did you know that the name
Canada comes from the Huron Indian word Kanata?
It means settlement. And of course the Indian
legends have persisted to this day
Are you thinking, too, about the Indian maiden
at the waterfall?
Ruth tried to laugh, and changed the subject. She
was too concerned about her brother to worry about
ghostly legends.
Vicki concentrated on piloting and navigating. A
glance at the air chart showed that the distance from
cabin to nickel mines was comparatively short. But
the distance from cabin to the United States border
was quite a long way. She wondered how far along
Don and Jake might be by now. They would have a
97

long, slow trip on foot, dragging a loaded sleigh . . .

The Cub was flying at a tipsy angle. She had better
pay attention!
You and the Cub must be pretty tired, Ruth
teased her. You flew smoothly yesterday when we
started out, all fresh and rested.
I guess I am tired. Dont worry, though. Ill fly
us there safely and get us down safely. Vicki could
have added that Rill Avery had taught her so well,
her mind and muscles automatically made the right
responses.
By noon they sighted the mines. Presently they
saw a cluster of wooden buildings. A rough airfield,
with three or four parked private planes, afforded a
landing place. Vicki was relieved; the proper
gasoline would be available. She flew a rectangular
traffic pattern above the field.
My brother must be hurt pretty badly, Ruth
said, if no one would fly him out of here to a
hospital. He must be hurt too badly to be moved.
Well, youre here now!
Vicki eased the plane into a glide and watched for
a flag signal from below. None came, so she set
down the Cub at the end of the deserted field, near
the wooden buildings. These seemed to be offices,
supply sheds, and a crude hotel.
Civilization, Vicki said, climbing out of the
Cub. Paris couldnt have looked better to her at this
98

moment. Ruth, will you lead the way?

Ruth clambered out, holding tightly to her kit.
She knew the name of the couple who ran the hotel,
Margreave, and the name of the doctor, all of whom
were employees of the mining company. She and
Vicki headed for the hotel.
Mrs. Margreave was in the plain-looking sitting
room, sorting a pile of mail at the counter.
Im Bob Halls sister, Ruth said, and this is
Vicki Barr, who flew me up here.
The woman smiled and came out from behind the
counter. Youre a nurse, arent you? Im glad
youre both here. Bob is going to pull through. Dr.
Jenkins is with your brother now.
Ruth looked happier right away.
Mrs. Margreave, Vicki said, Ruth and I have
some information which we ought to report to the
police. How do we take care of it here?
Mrs. Margreaves expression betrayed only a
trace of inquisitiveness. She said, There is a
Mountie who is due here today. Late today, we
expect. Hell be the man for you to see.
Thank you, said Ruth. And now, about my
brother?
It turned out there was an infirmary, but it was
not very comfortable. Bob Hall was upstairs in his
room where I can keep an eye on him, Mrs.
Margreave said. She offered to show Ruth upstairs.
99

How is he? Ruth asked.

Doctor says its serious, but not critical. Well
just go upexcuse mewhat can I do for you, Miss
Barr?
Id like to see about the plane. Is there a gas
pump, and anyone in charge?
Just go to the second shack and call for Buzzy.
The other two went upstairs and Vicki went
outdoors in search of Buzzy. She found an obliging
Jack-of-all-trades who sold her gasoline and helped
her to refuel the Cub to full capacity. Tired as she
was, Vicki checked over the plane, because she
might be starting right back to the cabin. The plane
taken care of, she returned to the hotel hoping for
some food, and a chance to clean up. She had not
washed since she left Fairview yesterday, and she
felt as grubby as some of the work-stained men she
saw driving trucks and jeeps.
Mrs. Margreave had left a note for her propped
on the counter. Come to Room 108. There Vicki
found Ruths coat and boots, and Mrs. Margreave
making up the twin beds with fresh linens.
Im not sure Ill stay overnight, Mrs.
Margreave, said Vicki. That will depend on how
soon Dr. Jenkins, or some other doctor around here,
can fly back with me to see someone whos been
injured.
Why, Dr. Jenkins is needed constantly at the
100

mines! He cant leave here. And theres no other

doctor for miles around, none that I ever heard of.
Vicki explained the need for a doctors services,
and explained that the flight back and forth would
not take very many hours. Mrs. Margreave remained
doubtful. Vicki was too tired to press the subject
tired, and after her harrowing experience, rather
bewildered.
What date is this, Mrs. Margreave?
The hotel woman stared, and told her the date.
Then tomorrow night, Vicki estimated, would be the
night of the full moon.
You are tired, child. Youd better have a good
long sleep here tonight, and start out fresh
tomorrow.
Dont tempt me, said Vicki longingly, but
laughing.
Mrs. Margreave took her downstairs to the
deserted dining room. A waitress brought hearty
food and Vicki was too hungry to wait for Ruth.
When Ruth did come in, she looked relaxed, more
satisfied.
My brother is going to be all right, she
answered Vickis inquiry. He has a back injury, but
Dr. Jenkins has been giving him first-class care.
Thank goodness!
Was Bob surprised to see you?
And glad! He does need a nurse. Im so happy I
101

came, Vickiso glad you got me up here

Well, we nearly didnt make it, Vicki said with
a grin.
I dont like the idea of your going back to that
cabin. Even if a doctor or even a police official
accompanies you. But Bob will need at least two
weeks of skilled nursing, Vicki, so theres no chance
of my returning with you.
We wont worry about it, Vicki said. We still
have to persuade the doctor to fly there.
After lunch her eyes began to close, but she made
a point of seeing Dr. Jenkins in the infirmary. Ruth
introduced them and left them together. The doctor
was a terse, busy man. He jerked his thumb at his
bulletin board when Vicki explained the reason for
her call.
Look at all I have to do, young lady. And I have
a dozen more men, besides, to look after. I cant
leave the mines.
It wont take too long, Dr. Jenkins. If we were to
start immediately
Now see here. At a mine theres always a chance
of an accident. A bad one. Thats what Im here for.
Is this confounded friend of yours more important
than maybe saving some fellows life or limb?
Vicki contrasted Jody with the many men here,
and the risks they took at work. She could not bring
herself to plead further. But Dr. Jenkins could not
102

tell her of any other doctor who was free to travel

with her.
Your best bet, young lady, is to hunt up a
country doctor around where your friends cabin is.
Theres most always a country doctor. Ask at the
general store or the post office, and youll find out
Im right.
Vicki did not relish the idea of returning to the
cabin, then trying to find a doctor in Pine Tree.
However, she was falling asleep on her feet
perhaps after a rest shed think of some solution.
Perhaps the Mountie would know of a doctor,
though medical people were scarce up, here. Vicki
thanked Dr. Jenkins, who grunted at her, and
yawned her way back to the hotel.
Ruth had already taken a warm bath and was
tucked into bed. Vicki followed suit, luxuriating in
soap and water, and washing out her nylon
undergarments. She had a fresh change in her
overnight bag.
I feel as if Id been grubby for two years.
I didnt enjoy sleeping in my clothes last night,
either. Ruth yawned. I havent told Bob yet about
ourahadventure.
Vicki tumbled into bed. I want to meet your
brother when Im conscious again.
Mrs. Margreave promised to call us in time for
supper.
103

Not sooner? Ill only sleep for an hour. Have to

fly back while theres still daylight
But when Vicki awoke it was late afternoon. The
Piper Cub was not equipped for night flight.
Besides, she still felt very tired. But she could make
the flight yet if she hurriedif she dressed
quickly
Vicki, what are you doing? Ruth asked sleepily.
Listen to me. Jody can safely be left alone
overnight. Its more urgent for your health to stay
here for a hot meal and a good nights sleep.
Vicki looked out the window. Darkness would be
falling soon. All right, Nurse, she said, and did not
resist a little more sleep before it was suppertime.
By that time the girls were feeling much better,
cleaned up and refreshed. Vicki had her family and
Bill on her mind. By now they might be worried
about her not having returned to Fairview and not
having communicated with them. Should she send a
wire? But that always startled her mother. A letter?
Still, she might be home by tomorrow at this time or
surely by next day; shed probably beat her own
letter home. In any case, she had told her family
shed be away for two days, and Bill Avery did have
a copy of her route.
Vicki, we havent much time to see Bob before
supper. After supper he may be asleep and we
wouldnt want to disturb him.
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Ruth took Vicki to meet her brother Bob. He

seemed older than Vicki remembered him from
Fairview, but probably that was because he was in a
rigid cast and rather groggy from medication.
Did you girls have a good flight up here? Ruth
didnt tell me.
It was interesting, Vicki fibbed. She did not
want to worry a sick man. The main thing is that
Ruth is here, isnt it?
Bob Hall grinned wanly. I feel like a new man
already.
Vicki chatted only a few minutes with him, not
wishing to tire him. Besides, they heard an oldfashioned dinner bell being rung.
You two had better run along downstairs, Bob
said. Ask Mrs. Margreave to seat you with my
friend, Noel Graham.
The hotel sitting room was a bustling place now,
filled with men in work clothes talking together and
filing into the dining room. Vicki asked Ruth to go
in and save her a chair. She wanted, before it grew
pitch dark, to see about getting the plane under
cover for the night, or at least firmly tied down.
Buzzy again helped her. There was no hangar, but
Buzzy towed the Cub against a sheltering shed wall
and helped Vicki tie the plane down firmly with
rope and stake. What a primitive place it was! On
her way back to the hotel, she saw Indians, dark and
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silent, squatting along a wall, watching and

smoking.
When she entered the noisy dining room, Vicki
found Ruth seated at a side table with a young man
wearing the brown work uniform of the Royal
Canadian Mounted Police. Vicki came up and Ruth
introduced the young man to her as Noel Graham.
He was sturdy, well-built, about twenty-four years
old, and his face was both firm and kind.
Im pleased to meet you, Miss Barr.
Bob didnt tell us we were going to meet a
Mountie, Vicki said, shaking hands. Ive seen
members of your corps at the Horse Show and
admired them so much.
The Mountie looked amused and held Vickis
chair for her. Then you saw us in the red tunic and
gold-striped breeches. We arent always so dressed
up. Only then did Vicki notice that looped over his
shoulder he wore a Sam Brown belt; a revolver and
leather ammunition case were at his waist.
I cant tell you how glad we are to meet a
Mountie here, Vicki said. Ruth and I have just
lived through a hair-raising experience, and I have to
go backto
Wait until after dinner to tell me, he advised.
Well talk privately.
Ruth said Noel Graham had started to tell her
about the Mounties work, but they had waited until
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Vicki arrived and could hear, too. Vicki was glad of

that. Were just policemen, maam, Noel Graham
insisted, but Vicki, like everyone else, knew of the
Royal Mounties courage and skill.
Some of the men at the long center table turned
around to josh the three young people.
Tell the young ladies about your horse, Noel!
The Mountie grinned good-naturedly. I havent
been on a horse since being posted for duty in this
territory three months ago. My mount these days is a
new Chevrolet.
Tell the girls about your buffalo-hide coat,
Graham, and your pretty moccasins with the beads
on em!
Noel Graham flushed slightly, then explained to
Vicki and Ruth that before coming to the James Bay
area, he had been on wilderness duty in the Yukon,
in far western and northern Canada. There a buffalohide greatcoat was as necessary as his carbine; as for
the Indian moccasins, in extreme cold they were
preferable to shoes, which pinched and cut off the
circulation.
The girls pressed him with questions. He told
them briefly about the deep forests of the Yukon and
the flickering Aurora Borealis. He mentioned Indian
legends, too, and Vicki thought of the Indian maiden
returning for a century to the waterfall.
Ruth was interested in the Mounties shining
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badges and buttons.

Im brilliant enough to figure out what R.C.M.P.
on the buttons stands for, Ruth said. But what
about the star on your left sleeve?
That doesnt mean Im the Commissioner, he
answered with a grin. We all wear the star. I
havent a stripe on my sleeve because Im a
Constable. Only in the force four years, a junior
officer. Once Ive served my five-year hitch, Im in
line for promotion to Corporal and one stripe. He
smiled. Then I may get married, too, if I can find a
girl as brave as my mother.
Your mother? Vicki asked. Was sheor is
shea Mounties wife?
My father was a Mountie, Noel Graham said. I
come from a Mounted Police family. One of my
earliest memories is my mother barricading the
bungalow door against a grizzly bear, while my
father was stationed in the Rockies. The young man
laughed. The life has its other side. Both my
parents teach Sunday school classes, and I was a
Scout Master.
More seriously, Noel Graham told them during
dinner about the Mounties long, stirring history.
Beginning in 1873, a handful of red-coated troopers
on horseback helped to settle and civilize a wild,
empty land. They fought the wilderness and Indian
savages and unscrupulous whiskey runners. They
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saved the scalps and lives of pioneers, and preserved

frontier farms and stockades from being set afire by
Indians. All this they did with the calm, ingenious
use of a handful of men. More, said Noel Graham,
the Mounties took pride in not using their guns. It
was enough that everyone knew they were law, and
that their motto had always been: Uphold the Right.
Maybe the Mounties dont seem as colorful
today, the young man said, but we still keep order
from coast to coast.
Vicki and Ruth looked at him with respect. This
rugged, handsome young man certainly looked as if
he could keep order.
After dinner they moved into an unused parlor.
There, out of earshot of the others, Ruth and Vicki
told the Mountie their story in full detail. The
Mountie listened to the end without a word, his face
growing graver.
You havent told Bob? he asked. Good. Dont
tell him for a while. Because what has been
happening at the cabin in the woods is a bad
business.
We realize we walked into a ring of smugglers,
Ruth said. We know how lucky we are to have
gotten out of there.
But Miss Vicki feels she ought to go back.
Noel Graham hesitated. You say those were mink
pelts?
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Yes. Why?
A mink farm not far from here was robbed
recently. Whoever did it got a tremendous haul.
A theft of mink pelts! Vicki exclaimed. The
people in the cabin were talking about deliveries
they said the next one would be all Jodys.
Thats very interesting. This mink theft hasnt
been the only one, but its the biggest and most
daring. Its possible the trio at the cabin The
Mountie turned to Vicki. Can you tell me exactly
where this cabin is located?
Vicki could give him the mileage she had flown
today, and said the cabin was within half an hours
walk of a village called Pine Tree. When we first
arrived at the cabin, Vicki explained to him, I was
looking only for a safe place to land. Im afraid I
dont know the cabins exact location. Theres a
waterfall nearbyquite a big, noisy waterfall.
Perhaps its silly to mention this, but Ruth and I
heard of an Indian legend about a waterfall
About people who disappeared years ago over
the falls, the Mountie said. Yes, its a well-known
legend. Not so silly, because some of it undoubtedly
happened. Well, to get back to the cabinyouve
given me a good general idea of where it is. I know
there is a post at Pine Tree. Im not sure when the
Mounties in that area get there on their rounds.
After a few moments thought, the Mountie said,
110

You say the men had a sleigh but no dog team?

That figures. To get food for the dogs would require
going into Pine Tree fairly often, and those men
want to keep out of sight.
Isnt it strange that the leader was a woman?
Ruth asked.
Yes, it is. I agree with you that some sort of
medical care should be brought to her.
Unfortunately, he did not know of any doctor who
was free to fly down from here to the cabin. Vicki
saw that Noel Graham was formulating some sort of
plan. Will you excuse me for a Few minutes?
While the Mountie was gone, Ruth went upstairs
to see how her brother was and Vicki went into the
main sitting room. She sat down beside Mrs.
Margreave and Dr. Jenkins, who were having a
second cup of coffee.
Well, Miss Barr, said the hotel woman, you
arent getting a very picturesque look at Canada here
in this mining camp, Im afraid.
Its not beautiful here, but its interesting, Vicki
said. Ruth and I flew over some magnificent
stretches, though, and we refueled in a lovely spot,
near the village of Pine Tree. That was understating
the facts, but the Mountie had hinted at discretion.
We saw an enchanting wale if all from the air.
Dr. Jenkins rubbed his nose. Why, thats odd. I
once did some doctoring around Pine Tree, a long
111

time ago. I remember that waterfall. A real high one,

eh? In the woods. Used to be some Indian legend
about itthe local people said Well, never mind.
Enchanting or enchanted, eh, young lady?
IIve heard a waterfall legend, Vicki said.
Something about a ghost returning on the night of
the full moon.
Thats the tale! Thats the one the local people
related.
Mrs. Margreave laughed and set aside her cup.
Ive never heard such foolishness in my life! Ill
wager every community near a waterfall has
trumped up its own local ghost. Folks in rural
communities dont always have much going on to
talk about, so they invent something.
Vicki managed to smile politely.
Then Noel Graham returned from outdoors. He
asked if the others would excuse Miss Vicki; he had
some business to discuss with her. It was impressive
to see how Dr. Jenkins and Mrs. Margreave, in fact
all the men in the room, respected the young police
officer.
Vicki followed him to the smaller parlor. He said,
as he took off his greatcoat, that he had been
telephoning from an office.
Ive reported your cabin incident to the border
police. Theyll be on the lookout for two men on
foot with a sleighload of furs.
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As simple as that! Vicki exclaimed. I certainly

am in luck to find a Mountie at the mines.
Well, I hope youre in luck. I reported to my
own officers as well. They take a serious view of
this smuggling ring, and theyve posted me to fly
back with you, Miss Vicki. Early tomorrow
morning. Do you think you can find the place
again?
Vicki was so relieved that she was to return to the
cabin under Mountie escort that she stammered.
Why, yesIremember a certain hill and clumps
of trees, to guide us. And the waterfall.
I might tell you that my senior officers have
invested me with full responsibility for this mission.
Im on my own, will make all the decisions, take
any action necessary.
I understand. Im under your orders. Vicki
smiled. Do I address you henceforth as Constable?
I think Noel will do.

113

CHAPTER VIII

The Gun and the Box

At the first streak of daylight, Vicki and the Mountie

met at the plane. Noel was instructed to start early,
and early it was. Even so, the entire mining camp
was astir. Mrs. Margreave had already packed a
lunch for them, and Buzzy was on hand to spin the
Cubs propeller. Ruth waved good-by from the
window of Bobs room.
The sun had not yet risen when the Cub rose. The
land below, the drifting clouds, and the wings of the
swift little plane, all were gray and dreamlike. Vicki
saw the first pink streaks at the horizon. Noel
Graham remarked the day promised to be clear.
Thats good for us, Miss Vicki. We have a lot to
do.
She watched their rate of climb, then said, I
think Vicki will do, without the Miss. Im at your
orders.
The Mountie was leaning forward in the
passengers chair, observing her airmanship. He also
114

took a look at the air map, and Vicki learned that he

knew how to handle a plane himself. After she
leveled off and set the ship on course, Noel Graham
said:
Wed better plan exactly what were going to do.
Are you able to talk and fly safely at the same
time?
Yes.
Ill be brief. Tell me more fully about those
deliveries you mentioned last evening.
WellVicki spoke over her shoulderthe
three people at the cabin mentioned others. It
sounded as if these others had some part in the
smuggling. Then when Don and Jake walked out on
the woman, they jeered at her and said that the next
haul, the next delivery, would be all hers.
Because she was being left at the cabin?
Because the deliveries are made to the cabin? the
Mountie asked. Or was it only a sarcastic gibe?
I dont know for sure, Vicki said carefully.
Oh, one thing morethe men said due soon.
The Mountie considered all this to be important
information. He gave Vicki a warning.
Well have to keep alert for those others, just in
case. They may not come to the cabin. It would
seem to me too big a risk, but we dont know how
they operate. I wish
Yes?
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I wish you werent mixed up in this, Miss Vicki.

Whatevers up, its a dangerous spot and no place
for a girl.
With a Mountie as guard? she countered
lightly. Somebody has to nurse Jody, even for an
hour.
Thats true. Vicki could not see his face under
his blue forage cap, but Noel Graham sounded intent
and wary.
The problem was, he said, how to round up any
other members of the smuggling ring who might
come soon to the cabin areaor who might already
be therein order to contact the woman leader.
Although Noel hoped to get a message through to
other Mounties, and although his superior officer
was trying to do so, for an indefinite period of time
he would be on watch alone. It meant one Mountie
against an unknown number of smugglers, probably
armed men. He and Vicki would have to use their
wits.
The Mountie and Vicki discussed possible plans
of dealing with the others. He believed them to be
members of the gang that had robbed the mink farm,
and he was determined to round them up.
Singlehanded? Vicki asked.
Yes, if I use my head. Youll have to keep a cool
head, too. I dont mean to scare you. I will be on
patrol in the area of the cabin, while youre nursing
116

the woman.
Vicki checked the controls. She noticed Noel was
very thoughtful.
See here, Vicki, we intend to round up the other
gang members, and theyll probably be in touch with
the woman. And you plan to nurse the woman
thats too dangerous for you. I want you out of range
of any shooting.
Vicki insisted she was not afraid and could take
care of herself.
Its all very well to talk bravely, Vicki, but you
arent even armed. Look. Why dont I give you my
gun? Do you know how to handle a revolver?
Yes. Dad used to take my sister and me trapshooting. But, Noel, I cant deprive you of your gun!
Youll be patrolling alone in the woods. Ill be
comparatively protected in the cabin.
The Mountie was dissatisfied. Presently bumpy
air currents demanded Vickis attention. They let the
matter of his gun rest temporarily. Noel Graham did
say one thing more.
There may be no exchange of fire. We Mounties
are expected to use no more force than necessary
when making an arrest. We shoot as seldom as
possible. Then we shoot to halt, not to kill.
Thats good to hear.
They flew on. Below them, the snowy woods and
rivers began to look dimly familiar to Vicki. Then
117

she recognized a meadow. She told the Mountie so.

He gave her a last word or two of caution. He would
not patrol too large an area; he would try to return
periodically within call of the cabin, while Vicki
played good Samaritan to the woman. However,
Noel could not risk being seen. He planned to keep
out of sight of anyone in the cabin, or approaching
the cabin, unless Vicki called.
I hope I wont need to call you, she said.
Look! Theres the waterfall.
Weve made good time. Why, that clearing is
quite a good landing field.
Noel did not say anything as she circled and made
a rather steep, jerky descent. Usually Vicki did
better than this, but half of her mind was on what
might await her in the cabin. She set the plane down
safely. Then she taxied the Cub over to the edge of
the woods, where the Mountie could find immediate
cover.
Climbing out of the plane, Vicki pointed out the
direction of the cabin, and the opposite direction
which the men had taken. That might be, Noel said,
the way from which other men might come.
You stay here, Vicki. Ill take a quick look at the
woods and cabin. If its safe, Ill come back for
you.
And if it isnt?
If I dont come back, you get in the plane and fly
118

out of here.
But what about you?
Thats an order, Noel said calmly.
She watched his brown-clad figure disappear
among the trees. In the silence the waterfall bubbled.
It was so lonely here that every snap of a branch,
every crack of a melting icicle made Vicki start.
Who knew what lay concealed among these dense
trees? She looked to the Cub for reassurance, and
strained her eyes and ears for sounds of the Mountie
returning.
He was smiling, but still moving cautiously, as he
came back.
All clear, up ahead, Noel said.
Good. Im ready.
Once more, Vicki. In my judgment you
shouldnt be here at all. Id like to see you get into
your Cub and leave this place.
But its only right to nurse that injured woman!
Theres no one but me at the moment to do it.
Im a pretty fair medic and cook when
necessary.
But you have to patrol, dont you?
Still the Mountie was reluctant. Vicki screwed up
enough courage to ask him why.
Because I half expect deliveries of furs or some
gang action soon. Tonight, possibly. It may be no
accident that the smugglers use this cabin so near
119

this particular waterfall. Remember its legend

reports two deaths? Tonight happens to be the night
of the full moon, too. Thats why Im concerned for
you.
If I dont find out what happens on the night of
the full moon, Ill perish of curiosity! Seriously,
once the woman is taken care ofprovided forIll
leave. I promise you.
The Mountie shook his head, but smiled. Come
along. Ill see you safely to the cabin.
When they were within sight of the cabin, he
paused. He would not expose himself to view again
so soon. He instructed Vicki to enter the cabin
quickly, and signal if everything was exactly as
when she left.
Ill make a complete circle through this area,
Noel Graham said, then Ill be back within call. I
think a birdcall is our safest signal. He whistled a
two-note call.
Suppose I need to talk with you? Vicki asked.
Not an emergency, but suppose I need your advice?
Or to report to you?
If the woman is awake, walk back near the
parked plane, take cover in the trees, and whistle
from there. If I whistle for you, meet me there.
Understood? Any questions?
I think I have it straight.
Now run into the cabin, Vicki. Good luck.
120

She obeyed and let herself into the cabin without

any telltale looking back.
The kitchen looked exactly as it had when she
and Ruth left here yesterdaywait, no, it didnt.
The oilcloth covering the kitchen table was shoved
aside, as if someone had been trying to open the
table drawer. Or had the oilcloth been askew
yesterday? Vicki could not recall. The stove was
cold, the fire had gone out.
She took a quick look at the bedrooms.
Everything appeared about the same as before.
Apparently no gang members had been in the cabin.
Vicki hurried to the door of the cabin, and waved
her scarf as a signal to Noel. Now he understood that
it was possible for her to stay here and nurse Jody, at
least for the present.
She took a deep breath and made herself go into
the womans room. This room was warm; Ruth had
banked the stove in here. The woman lay on the
same cot with her eyes closed. Was she asleep? At
least she was breathing. Vicki noticed that the tray
of food was nearly empty now. That was a good
sign.
Hello, Vicki said softly. Jody? Are you
awake?
She moved closer to the cot and saw staining on
the bandage at the womans shoulder. The woman
opened her eyes.
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Oh, its you. You did come back.

You didnt believe me? Never mind. How are
you feeling?
Too hot. Jody actually smiled. You did come
back!
Vicki rested a light hand on the womans
forehead. It was burning. A sudden rise in
temperature could indicate infection. She seemed
drowsy and weak.
Thirsty? Vicki asked.
The woman grunted yes. Vicki went into the
kitchen where she pumped a fresh glass of water,
and filled two basins. She gave Jody a drink of
water, then bathed the womans face and hands. The
woman hardly seemed to notice.
Shall I fix you something to eat?
Im not hungry. Later.
Ruth had left a package of gauze, in her haste.
Vicki was glad to see it. She washed her hands, then
removed the soiled dressing, and cleansed the edges
of the wound as best she could. It seemed to be
healing, but a doctor should examine it. Vicki
applied a fresh bandage, not very skillfully but it
served. During this procedure Jody seemed to wake
up more, and complained a little.
The womans cot was badly mussed. It should be
remadeor Jody moved into the other, fresh cot.
Vicki looked at her, wondering whether she could
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lift this massive, masculine-looking figure, even if

Jody helped. Well, shed try.
Come on, Jody, youre going to move into the
other cot.
Let me alone. Hurts. Thirsty.
Vicki gave her another drink of water. Then,
sliding her arm under the womans heavy shoulders,
she helped Jody who grumbled but sat up willingly
enough. Slowly, Jody walked two or three steps to
the other cot and settled down there.
Feels better, she mumbled. Thanks.
When we get you some medication, youll really
feel better. Vicki was encouraged that the woman
was able to get to her feet. Ruth had said she was
very strong.
Remaking the mussed cot with its tangle of
coarse sheets and blankets was a problem. Vicki
took the bedding apart, spreading it over chair backs
to air, until she came to an old, folded Indian blanket
which served as a mattress. As she put her hand
between blanket and the canvas of the cot, Vicki felt
something hard and cold.
Hello. Whats this?
She pulled forth a pistol. For a moment Vicki
stared at the blunt, ugly thing in her hand.
Jody noticed. She was not too weak to force
herself to sit up and reach with her good right arm.
Give me back my gun!
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Vicki stepped away and slid the pistol into her

slacks pocket. Now, what does a sick woman want
with a gun? Im not going to hurt you. Cant you see
that?
Its my gun, the woman muttered. My gun, my
gun. She fell back onto the cot. They hid it, but I
found it.
Don and Jake hid it from you? Yes, they would
do that, Vicki realized, in order to guarantee their
getaway yesterday. Evidently they had not been
quite callous enough to leave Jody unarmed against
intruders or wild animals.
Last night I found it. So I hid it myself, the
woman muttered, and heavily wiped her face.
Vicki pieced together what the woman meant.
Don and Jake must have left the gun somewhere in
the cabin, and Jody had searched and found it. Vicki
recalled the oilcloth of the kitchen table set askew.
Had the gun been concealed in the drawer of the
kitchen table? But that was a minor detail. What
really struck Vicki was that Jody was strong enough
to get on her feet and search!
Id better not underestimate her as an enemy,
Vicki thought as she went on remaking the cot.
Sick or not sick. Pretty crafty of her to hide the gun
where she did.
The woman lay muttering to herself. Her broken
words were incoherent. Vicki wondered whether or
124

not the woman was too sick to remember, now or

later on, that her visitor had possession of her gun.
Because if Jody remembered
Vicki slipped into the kitchen. She transferred the
pistol to the pocket of her jacket. If Jody makes a
grab for me, at least she wont find the gun on me.
Then, cautiously, she opened the door a crack and
left it open, in case the Mountie should whistle a
birdcall.
Vicki got a fire started again in the kitchen stove,
and also built a small wood fire in the fireplace. All
of this took time, but the cabin was chilly, not warm
enough for an invalid or for herself, either. Then she
looked over the supply of canned food, deciding on
what to give Jody for a midday meal. She set out
broth, milk, and cereal, putting the cereal on the
stove to cook slowly.
Then Vicki returned to see how the woman was
getting along. The hot dryness of Jodys forehead
alarmed her, and so did the womans low, rambling
talk. Vicki felt her pulse; it seemed fast, and Jodys
face and hands were hot. Feverish. Probably
delirious. Or half asleep and babbling? A doctor
should see her soon.
Thirsty, Jody?
Theyll find out, snoopin around here
Here, Jody, drink some water.
Vicki helped the woman to drink. She wrung out
125

a cloth in cool water and placed this compress on

Jodys forehead.
Find the notebook, the woman on the cot called
out. In the box. I have to have the notebook.
Ssh, you dont have to worry about the notebook
now.
Jody stared at Vicki without seeing her. She was
delirious.
The notebookfind itin the box.
Did the woman know what she was saying? Vicki
doubted it, but in hope of soothing her patient, she
made a cursory search of the room. It had no
dresser, only shelves; several boxes stood there.
Vicki opened every box. They contained small
ammunition, iodine, pencils, but no notebook. Until
the very last boxand there she found it, a wellthumbed paper-bound notebook.
Vicki glanced at the woman. Dozing or faking?
Vicki crept nearer and was satisfied from the deep,
regular breathing that Jody was asleep.
Good. Jody did not know she had come into
possession of the notebook, too. Opening it, Vicki
found a scrawled list of mens names. The curious
thing was the addresses. For each man the only
address given was General Delivery in several
towns. That certainly looked as if the men were
scattered, and transients. Were these the names of
the other members of the ring? Why so many towns?
126

Small Canadian towns, Vicki thought, since she did

not recognize a single place name.
A suspicious kind of list. This, too, she decided to
keep. This was important enough to show to Noel.
With Jody asleep, Vicki risked going to the cabin
door and whistling. She waited, putting on her
parka. She dared not whistle a second time. In a
minute she heard an answering two-note call. A
disturbing thought occurred to her. A third person
could imitate the call she had given. Well, shed
have to take her chances.
With a quick look around, Vicki made a dash
from the cabin into the woods. Once under cover she
hurried, slipping and stumbling in the snow, to near
where the plane was parked. A brown-clad figure
was waiting for her.
Noel! I found something
Are you all right? Sure? Tell me how its
going.
Vicki told him exactly what had taken place, all
that the woman had said, then she produced the
notebook.
The Mountie leafed through the list and gave a
low whistle. This is a find. It may help us smash
the ringif we can locate these men. Ill keep the
notebook, Vicki. You accomplished a good deal in
less than an hour.
It felt like a week in there. She showed the
127

Mountie that she had the womans gun. Now you

neednt feel worried about me.
Well, lets see how youre fixed for shells.
Noel Graham examined the gun and made sure
Vicki had a supply of bullets. Dont use this thing
unless you absolutely have to.
Im not eager to use a gun, Vicki said. I dont
even like having it on me.
It wont go off, if thats what youre afraid of.
Heres the safety catch, see? He handed the pistol
back to her.
Vickis first concern, gun and notebook aside,
was to bring medical aid to the woman. Although
Vicki had had first-aid training like any flight
stewardess, she knew Jody needed more than first
aid. Besides, medical supplies were needed, and a
few other items such as milk and matches.
She consulted Noel. He said he had inquired last
night at the mines about Pine Tree, and learned that
the village, a tiny one, lay on the Swampscott Road.
This was an old, secondary road, but the Mountie
knew the Canadian trails and highways as intimately
as the lines in the palm of his hand. He had also
learned last evening there was, or had been, a doctor
in Pine Tree. Whether the doctor was still there and
if so, whether he were available, was an open
question.
Vicki was able to tell him, from having observed
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Don and Jake on their trek for gasoline, that the

village was about half an hours walk from the
cabin.
I think I could find my way if youd tell me how
to find the road, Vicki said. Once on the road Id
be all right.
Id rather not send you. A half hours walk in
deep snow was difficult, and there was no telling
what gang members might be around. Still, it was
more important for the Mountie to keep watch of the
cabin and woods than go for the doctor. The
Mountie could not go, and there was no one else to
send. I guess you will have to go, Vicki. Ill swing
my patrol a bit, far enough to set you on the road.
He instructed Vicki to return to the cabin to
search for a pair of snowshoes. They would make
her trek easier. Noel Graham would resume his
patrol until Vicki signaled him, whenever she was
ready to start.
This time Ill come almost to the cabin, Vicki.
He turned away and walked back into the woods.
Vicki looked back once over her shoulder, but could
not pick out the brown figure among the tree trunks.
She was relieved to find that Jody was still
asleep.
Where to search for snowshoes? The cabin was
poorly supplied with closets. Vicki looked in the
kitchen bin, on the shelves in all three rooms, even
129

behind doors. She did not find any snow-shoes. Yet

surely the trio owned at least one pair. Next, she
tried the one big storage place, the deep windowless
closet which served as fur cache.
Vicki groped around in the dark cool closet. A
few garments hung there. Then she remembered her
pencil-size flashlight and dug it out of her pocket.
When she flashed it on, she saw, hanging far in the
back, the beaded dress and feather headgear of an
Indian girl.
Vicki was startled. She instantly snapped off her
flashlight. She had seen enough, and she did not
want to attract Jodys attention. But what did the
Indian clothing mean? Then her hand touched the
wooden frames of snowshoes. Good. First things
first. The enigma of the Indian garments would have
to wait while she summoned a doctor.
Vicki set out cereal and milk beside the sleeping
womans cot. She put on her parka and made sure
the gun was in her pocket. She didnt want Jody to
find it again! Then, Vicki left the cabin, whistled the
two-note call, and vanished among the trees.
The Mountie could not have been far off, for he
arrived quickly. All business, he began showing
Vicki how to strap the snowshoes. He was not
particularly interested in the Indian clothing she had
found in the closet.
If it were firearms or furs or something
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informative like the notebook, Noel said, Id take

it seriously. But we have more concrete things to
worry about.
Noel remarked that the garment might have been
accepted in swap with some itinerant Indian peddler.
Then he asked Vicki to do an errand for him when
she reached Pine Tree.
Theres a Mountie outpost there.
Noel said he had been trying to contact the
outpost with the walkie-talkie he carried, but
without success so far. He conceded that his walkietalkie had only a ten- to fifteen-mile range, and its
range could be reduced in hilly terrain, where sound
bounced back off the obstructing hills. So Noel was
not sure whether his walkie-talkie was not reaching
the outpost, or whether no one was there when he
signaled.
I want you to go to the outpost if its open,
Vicki, and deliver a message. Say its urgent.
Describe the circumstances and location.
If the outpost is open? Her heart sank.
Noel explained that in wilderness country like
this, the Mounties patrolled wide areas and reported
to the village stations only once a week or so, or as
needed.
What if the outpost isnt open? Vicki asked.
Then youll have to find someone in the village,
the local justice if there is one, or some person
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wholl relay our message. You must do this, Im

quite serious.
Ill do it, Vicki said uncertainly.
I hope you find a doctor. Come on, now. I found
a short cut to the road.
They started, within the woods, to circle around
the cabin, and left it behind. Vicki found the
snowshoes awkward. Some ten minutes later they
emerged onto a snow-covered road.
Follow the road, Vicki, and you cant miss. But
keep your eyes open all the way.
She started off alone. It was midmorning. Noel
had made her feel, without saying so in so many
words, that he was asking for help because he
expected something to happen tonight. A great deal
would depend on Vickis getting his message
through.

132

CHAPTER IX

Outpost Message

Pine Tree consisted of a handful of neat old wooden

buildings huddled together in the wilderness. The
few people Vicki saw hurrying in the cold wore an
independent air. She decided against asking
questions which would make her errand
conspicuous, so she walked along hoping to see a
doctors shingle.
She passed a lumber shed, a general store, and an
outpost of the Hudson Bay Company. Ojibway
Indians sat quietly around the fur company shed,
stolid, as if they proposed to sit there all day, the
men wearing gold earrings and the women with
papooses slung on their backs. Beyond the general
store, a few houses stood in a row.
Vicki clumped along as fast as she could on
snowshoes. She saw the first house had a small sign
on its door. It read: M. M. Guthrie, M.D. So the
smugglers had liedafraid of exposing their
racketwhen theyd said there was no local doctor.
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A reserved woman of about sixty answered

Vickis ring. Beyond her, Vicki saw a neat oldfashioned home.

134

Is Dr. Guthrie in? Could he visit a sick person

about half an hours walk from here?
The doctors in, but he is having a second
breakfast. Do you want to come in and tell me about
the case? Im Mrs. Guthrie.
Thank you, Mrs. Guthrie, but II think I might
as well do my marketing first.
The fewer people who knew about Jody, the
better, Vicki decided.

135

The doctor will be finished in about fifteen

minutes.
Ill come back. Vicki lingered on the doorstep.
She wanted to ask the doctors wife whether there
was anyone here today at the Mountie station in this
hamlet, but she did not wish to invite questions. In
fifteen minutes, then.
Vicki hiked back to the general store. This plain
room, stacked with all sorts of merchandise, seemed
to be the neighborhood meeting place. Several local
men and women visited around the counter; some
had brought their children along. The storekeeper
was a lean, laconic man whose shrill voice rose
above the rest. Out of the corner of his eye, he
scrutinized the stranger in parka and snowshoes.
Vicki felt self-conscious. She hung back and
listened to their talk. They exchanged news of their
winter-bound farms, and then the storekeeper said
something which sharply interested her.
Im not complaining about any lack of water,
winter or summer, Malcolm. What I object to is not
being able to go anywhere near the waterfall.
Oh, now, Mr. Banton, you dont believe theres
any real danger? a woman countered.
Well, you know what to expect every first night
of the full moon.
Thats tonight, several people murmured.
Vicki felt a prickle of fear along the back of her
136

neck. She did not feel any easier when their talk,
half joking, half serious, touched on a mysterious
danger. After all, people who lived close to the falls
must know what they were talking about. These
were sedate, conservative people, too.
Hughie! Jock! Take care you stay away from the
waterfall, one woman told her children. Especially
tonight.
Ive no wish to alarm you, Malcolm, or your
womenfolk, said the storekeeper, but a month ago
I was traveling home late, from a buying trip, and
drove past the falls. Theres no question about it. I
heard the Indian maiden wailing.
Did you see her?
I saw a figure of some sort standing at the crest
of the waterfall. Someone giggled and murmured.
No, I did not imagine it!
The woman with the two children sighed. Mr.
Travis, when he was out fishing one evening late
last summer, said he heard and saw the same as you.
Well, Ive come to buy some flour, Mr. Banton.
The storekeeper got busy waiting on the
customer. Two or three others drifted close to Vicki.
They were obviously curious about this outsider, but
too closemouthed to speak to her. She went up to the
counter and waited her turn. Waiting, she could not
help hearing two men discuss in low voices,
those game hunters back there in the woods.
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The waterfall dont seem to bother them. Living

in that cabin almost within sight of it.
They have their nerve, hunting in a haunted
area.
Its a peculiar thing, how seldom they come to
town for mail and supplies.
Ah, well, theyre odd ones. Keep to themselves.
Game hunters, indeed, Vicki thought. She had no
chance to hear anything more because, while the
customer fumbled in her purse, the storekeeper
leaned toward Vicki.
And what do you want, miss? The question had
an edge to it.
Vicki gave him her order. By now the local
people were openly staring at her. A newcomer must
be an event.
You from down south in Maine or Minnesota,
miss? the storekeeper asked.
Youre right, Im from across the border. Vicki
tried smiling at him, but the faces around her
remained secretive.
I see youre wearing snowshoes. Where are you
staying, miss?
So they expected a stranger to account for herself.
Vicki did not mind that, but the Mountie expected
her to be discreet.
IIve come to see Dr. Guthrie, she said,
rather lamely. Hes having his second breakfast just
138

now. Im just waiting for him to finish.

The people around her said, Oh, yes, the
doctor, and nodded, satisfied. They seemed to
assume she was visiting the doctor, was perhaps Dr.
Guthries niece or an old neighbor. Vicki let the
matter go at that.
While the storekeeper filled her order, Vicki said
very tentatively, Thats a beautiful waterfall you
have. Ive heard some interesting legends about it.
Indeed. So you were listening to us? Mr.
Banton remarked. After that, no one said another
word about the waterfall.
Vicki wondered whether to try a remark about the
game hunters in the cabin. She knew she could
capture their attention, and perhaps coax them to
talk, if she herself contributed a tidbit of information
about the cabin back in the woods. On the other
hand, she hesitated to reveal anything about the fur
smugglers, for fear the less superstitious village
people might invade the cabin area and make the
Mounties task harder.
So she concluded her purchase hastily, said,
Good-by, Mr. Banton, and hurried out of the store.
It was a shame she had not learned more. If they
were not so suspicious of strangers, she might have
learned some interesting things about the falls. Well,
she hoped the doctor would know.
The doctor was ready to see her now. Mrs.
139

Guthrie ushered Vicki into a prim office, furnished

with old-fashioned horsehair chairs and shelves of
medical books. The doctor who sat behind the worn
desk had an old-fashioned air, too, with his
brushlike mustache. He looked kind, and his eyes
were lively. Vicki trusted the old doctor on sight.
Im so glad to find a doctor here, she said.
Very lucky, I think.
Im retired, my dear, or I should say semiretired, and thats why Im here. Dr. Guthrie
explained that he had recently transferred himself
down to civilization after spending five years in
the Arctic. It takes too much out of a mans life up
there. Its fine here in Pine Tree, winters and all.
Anyway, Pine Tree is my home town.
Vicki smiled. I think Fairview, Illinois, my
home town, is the best place in the world.
The old doctor smiled back. Now whats your
name, little lady? Ah, yes, Victoria Barr. A fine
name, Victoria. Vicki remembered, then, that she
was in a Dominion of the Queenand probably the
Queen, to this elderly man, would be forever
Victoria Regina. Why, youre such a little girl.
How can I call you Miss Barr? Im going to call you
Victoria.
Vicki explained that most people called her by a
shorter, gayer form of the august name. Dr. Guthrie
looked rather disapproving, but merely said, Now
140

what can I do to help you, Miss Victoria?

Vicki was as frank as possible with him, relying
on a doctors pledge of silence. When she hinted
that the people in the cabin were dangerousfor she
had no right to involve him with criminals without
his knowledgeDr. Guthrie kept any surprise he
felt to himself. He nodded when Vicki said Mountie
Noel Graham was on duty there.
Will you come, Dr. Guthrie? The woman does
need attention.
Well, frankly, I am dubious about going to that
cabin. However, I suppose I could notify, or ask
Mrs. Guthrie, to notify our justice officer that
someone is ill there. You see, I want someone here
in Pine Tree to know my whereabouts.
So he agreed to come to the cabin!
Thank you, Dr. Guthrie. Now, I have an errand
to do for Constable Noel Graham, of the Royal
Mounted Police. He wants a message delivered or
relayed to the nearest Mountie station.
There is one in Pine Tree, the doctor said, but
it is closed. Closed and locked. It is only a minor
outpost, not really a station; the Mounties come to
Pine Tree on their rounds about once a week. We
might walk over there, Miss Victoria, and see
whether they happen to have come today. I wish our
justice officer wasnt ill.
The outpost was at the far end of the village. On
141

the way the old doctor told Vicki how Mounties

were more than law-enforcement officers. In
emergencies in lonely areas Mounties acted as
doctors, nurses, social workers, mail carriers, judges,
explorers, even as ministers. Vicki pricked up her
ears when he said Mounties sometimes collected
taxes and customs duties on furs, too. They uphold
the right, Dr. Guthrie said. That is their motto.
And the Mounties red coat is a symbol of right and
justice.
The outpost was locked. Vicki peered through a
window into its one room, saw a short-wave radio,
and felt ready to cry with exasperation. Then she
heard a key rattle, and there was Dr. Guthrie
unlocking the door!
Step in, my dear. Tight quarters in here. Theres
a larger station in the town of Mercer, about twentyfive or thirty miles away.
The doctor told Vicki that because he sometimes
had to deal with emergency health situations, and in
this wilderness sometimes needed help, the
Mounties had given him access to their short-wave
radio. Thus he could communicate with them in
Mercer, which the Mounties visited oftener than this
hamlet.
Now then, Miss Victoria, what is the message?
Dr. Guthrie seated himself before the short-wave set.
He handled it expertly. First, though, wed better
142

see what contact we can get.

Vicki waited while the physician tried to get
through to the Mercer station. He let Vicki have an
earphone. There was some difficulty; Mercer did not
answer.
I think our set here is sending all right, he said.
Just be patient. Someone will intercept.
After several minutes a bigger Mounties station
picked up their call, and replied that the sergeant in
charge of the Mercer station and his two corporals
were out on duty. They were not expected back in
Mercer until tonight.
Very good, but hold on! the doctor replied.
Now, Miss Victoria, what is the message?
Constable Noel Graham requests one or more
Mounties to look in at the cabin, as soon as they can.
He is on patrol there alone.
Dr. Guthrie relayed this message, adding where
the cabin was located. He listened closely to the
reply.
The relay station said that at least one of the
Mounties might be back in Mercer late today, from a
mink farm where a valuable load of pelts had been
stolen. Did Pine Tree have anything further to
report? No, answered Dr. Guthrie. The station
signed off, and Dr. Guthrie clicked off the set.
I heard about that mink robbery, he remarked.
Theres a reward offered for the recovery of the
143

furs. Well, now, shall we start for our patient?

They returned to Dr. Guthries house where he
picked up his snowshoes and medical kit. Then he
and Vicki climbed into the doctors jeep.
Its sturdier than the horse and buggy I started
out with, years ago. Dr. Guthrie smiled down at
her. If youre cold, we can put up the side shields.
No, thanks, Im fine.
Vicki did not feel at all fine. The prospect of Noel
Graham, and possibly herself, remaining at the cabin
area without aid until some time tonight or
tomorrow was definitely scary. Still, the message
had gone through and that was the best she or the
Mountie could do.
As they drove out toward the road, Dr. Guthrie
said: Id like you to describe the womans
condition, and tell me what you and your nurse
friend have done for her. He listened attentively,
then said, You did well.
I hope youll think so, Doctor, when you see the
patient.
Its a curious thing that theres a woman out
there. A queer lot, those people back there in the
cabin. Ive always entertained doubts about them.
Halfway to the cabin it was impossible to go
further via road. Dr. Guthrie parked the jeep and
strapped on his snowshoes.
Do you know the way from here, Miss
144

Victoria?
I think I can find my way back again. Well have
to walk through the woods.
They certainly chose an isolated spot. Perhaps
the sound of the waterfall will guide us.
The elderly doctor could not walk very fast. Vicki
herself had trouble with her snowshoes and with
roots of trees concealed under the snow. While they
walked, the doctor commented on how strange it
was that the game hunters in the cabin never brought
their kill to the Hudson Bay Company store in Pine
Tree. All the other hunters did, for miles around.
Vicki wished she could tell him the truth about these
particular game hunters, but it was not her place to
reveal information. As it was, Dr. Guthrie made
some shrewd guesses.
Most folks in Pine Tree have paid no attention to
them, and I figure thats exactly what they want.
Ive always felt something questionable was going
on at the cabin. Ive seen sleigh tracks around there
but no dog tracksjust footprints. Means those men
dont want any barking dogs to draw attention to
their goings-on.
I wonder, Vicki said, why they arent wary of
the waterfall, when everybody else is. Is there really
something to be afraid of, Dr. Guthrie?
Well, you cant lightly disregard two
disappearances. I myself dont hold with the ghost
145

legend. Possibly there were two accidents at the

waterfall. As for both of them occurring on the night
of the full moon, well, it could be coincidence.
Vicki searched for a possible link between the
waterfall and the gangsters in the cabin. But the
legend was at least a hundred years old, and the two
accidents had happened long ago, long before the
gangsters time. Still
What have your local people seen at the falls?
Vicki asked.
Several swear theyve seen and heard the
legendary Indian maiden. Always at midnight on the
first night of the full moon.
How recently?
Thats a good question. The ghost has been
reappearing again in the last two or three years. For
several years before that, she was never seen. People
from my village used to go out to the waterfall for
picnics and a swim, but not any more. They give the
whole area around the waterfall a wide berth.
How long have these people been living in the
cabin?
No one knows. The cabin stood abandoned for a
long time, the doctor said. Its hard to know
precisely when those people settled there, because
theyve kept so much out of sight.
He added that all of Pine Tree was astonished
when two of the men came in for gasoline day
146

before yesterday. One of the men had been in Pine

Tree that same morning, to pick up mail at the post
office. But before that, the hamlet had scarcely seen
them except for glimpses of them at the post office,
and last January when they bought a supply of
canned food at Mr. Bantons store. They bought a
large supply at a time, as if not eager to come into
the store any oftener than avoidable.
Vicki reflected on that and on the doctors remark
that the cabin had been an abandoned one. She felt
sure that the smugglers had made several important
alterations, installing strong locks on all the doors
and building the deep windowless fur closet, in
which she had found the Indian dress and headgear.
I wonder why the ghost has been reappearing at
the waterfall, the doctor remarked.
So do I, said Vicki, almost grimly.

147

CHAPTER X

Dangerous Watch

Jody?
Not a sound. The idea that the woman might have
died while left alone sent goose flesh along Vickis
spine. But Dr. Guthrie was a reassuring presence,
and besides, Jody was too strong or too ornery to
die.
Vicki led the elderly doctor through the kitchen
and into the larger bedroom. He glanced around
curiously, having heard rumors of this place. When
he looked at Jody, breathing heavily on the cot, he
muttered, A woman here? Strange, its strange.
He bent over Jody. Miss Victoria, Ill need two
orbetterthree basins of water, please. And some
boiling water ready on the stove.
Yes, Dr. Guthrie.
By the time Vicki attended to his requests, she
found the doctor had removed the bandage and was
very gently examining and probing Jodys shoulder.
Jody was awake; her heavy features were hostile, as
148

if she wanted no one here, not even a doctor.

When were you shot? the doctor asked. How
long have you had this wound?
No answer.
Vicki said, Day before yesterday, Doctor. In the
afternoon.
The doctor raised his shaggy eyebrows. The
same day that two of the men came into Pine Tree
for gasoline. Would you say thats a coincidence?
I got shot by accident, Jody growled. We were
huntin rabbits.
Why didnt the men call me? Dr. Guthrie
asked. They were in Pine Tree, anyhow
Mind your own business! and Jody pulled
roughly away from the doctor.
Miss Victoria, will you hold the basin for me?
The elderly doctor ignored Jody and began to wipe
the wound clean. I dont see any bullet, or any shell
fragments. The shot merely grazed you. You were
lucky.
Lucky, thats me all over, the woman hooted.
Look, Doc, why dont you and this kid leave me
alone? I dont need anybody.
Ill give the orders here for as long as you are
sick, Dr. Guthrie said firmly. Open your mouth,
Jody.
The woman was so astonished, or perhaps so
weak, that she obeyed. The doctor inserted a
149

thermometer, and took her pulse. After this, he

asked a few questions. Jody replied meekly enough.
The doctor summoned Vicki out of the room for a
conference.
The womans shoulder was mending adequately,
he said. The wound itself probably was clean, shock
and loss of blood had reacted on her more than the
wound. More serious was the womans restless
attitude. She was already running a temperature; this
might rise now that Dr. Guthrie had medicated the
wound. Jody needed to be kept quietly in bed, fed
nourishing meals, and have the soiled dressings
changed.
If youll do this, Miss Victoria, she will make a
recovery quite soon, I feel sure.
But, Dr. Guthrie, I wasnt planning to stay here,
Vicki floundered.
Oh, well, in that case, of course But he
frowned and thoughtfully rubbed his chin. Im
trying to think of someone, anyone, whod come out
here and stay with the patient for a day or two.
People are so ridiculously frightened of the
waterfall. Of course if you cant stay, you cant. Id
hardly blame you for wanting to get out of this
cabin.
How serious is her condition, Dr. Guthrie?
All illness is serious, if neglected. Good care is
needed. I predict a prompt recovery because the
150

woman is obviously very strong.

You said one or two days to nurse her?
Possibly another twenty-four hours would see
her past any danger.
Dr. Guthrie did not urge her one way or the other.
Surely I ought to stay one more day, Vicki
thought aloud. An ill person shouldnt be deserted.
To herself she admitted a further reason: she was
not eager to leave until the mystery of the cabin
and perhaps the waterfall, toomight be cleared up.
For another half hour, the doctor worked with
Jody. Vicki assisted, and felt rewarded by Dr.
Guthries praise. Youre a good nurse. Jody will be
in good hands. He advised letting the woman rest
after the strong medication he had just administered.
Later on, Vicki could give her some light, warm
nourishment.
During all this time Vicki was keenly aware of
the Mounties unseen presence somewhere in the
area. She had listened for the birdcall but there was
none. Now, knowing that the Mountie would want
to talk with Dr. Guthrie, she asked the doctor
whether they could safely leave the woman for a
while.
I think so. Shes dozing, and rest is the best
thing for her.
Then will you come with me, Dr. Guthrie?
Quietly, please.
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Vicki discouraged any questions until they were

well into the woods. The doctor was puzzled at all
her precautions. When they came within sight of the
clearing and the plane, he was astonished.
Their plane?
Mine, doctor. Or rather, it belongs to a friend of
mine. Later, I hope to be able to tell you the whole
story. Right now, were here to meet the Mountie.
Well, thats a relief.
Vicki signaled. After rather a long wait, she was
answered from a distance. Ten minutes later Noel
Graham came toward them.
Why, Dr. Guthrie! I remember you, sir. You
helped me out that time with the Eskimo who took
care of my huskies.
Certainly I remember you, young man. Your
nameahat my age my memory grows a bit
rusty. This young lady has been describing to me the
situation at the cabin.
A little, Vicki qualified quickly. Dr. Guthrie
has been attending Jody.
The doctor told Noel Graham what the womans
condition was, her chances of a swift recovery, and
the need for nursing.
However, Dr. Guthrie cautioned, she is quite a
sick woman at the moment. I advise a twenty-fourhour wait, after todays strong medication, before
you AhI presume you are here to take some
152

action against these people.

Yes, Doctor, there may be an arrest.
Can you wait twenty-four hours before arresting
the woman?
Ill wait twenty-four hours. But not more.
The Mountie cautioned Dr. Guthrie not to tell
anyone that the cabin was under surveillance.
We relayed your message, Vicki told Noel
Graham. She and the doctor described what had
happened, and his chances of getting help soon.
Noel smiled. That depends on what you mean by
soon. The other Mounties will come by, right
enough. Its a little difficult to estimate when they
will reach us.
Is there anything further I can do? the doctor
asked. Noel said Dr. Guthrie had already done
everything possible. Then Ill be going along back
to Pine Tree. My other patients will be waiting for
me.
One minute more, please, Doctor? Vicki
requested.
Mention of messages had given her an idea. She
asked the doctor to send, if possible, a message to
her family in Fairview, explaining where she was
and why delayed. Vicki added that if she had known
yesterday that she would be needed here to do
another days nursing job, she would have sent a
message home from the mines.
153

I told my family, and Bill Avery who owns the

plane, that Id be gone only two days. They must be
growing anxious.
Whats this about a nursing job? the Mountie
started. The doctor did not hear him; Vicki glanced
away.
Im doubtful about getting a message through,
the doctor answered Vicki. The hamlet had no
telephone or telegraph service, no ham radio, and
only once-a-week mail delivery, which Vicki had
just missed. Ill attempt to get word through to the
States via the Mounties shortwave radio.
Its questionable whether the service will relay a
private message, Noel Graham said, across the
border at that. In my opinion, this young lady should
go home.
But Dr. Guthrie says Jody needs a nurse, at least
until tomorrow, and theres no one else!
As a matter of fact, if youre staying, Miss
Victoria, I advise you to return to the bedside soon
now, the doctor said. Ill look in again,
tomorrow.
Noel Grahams mouth set in a stubborn line and
he looked down seriously at Vicki.
This is no place for you.
Cant stop to talk now. Later, please? Noel, what
about some food for you?
If that isnt just like a girl! Worrying about lunch
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when there are urgent matters to think about. He

said the sandwiches Mrs. Margreave had given him
would do.
Dr. Guthrie was waiting for either one of them to
escort him through the woods, to some point where
he could find his way to the road and jeep again.
The Mountie undertook to do this.
Vicki returned alone to the cabin.
Besides nursing, she found she would have to do
a certain amount of housekeeping as well. She
rinsed the basins, washed out several cloths and
hung them to dry, washed the used dishes from
Jodys morning tray, and made up fresh fires in the
bedroom and kitchen stoves. By that time she was
ready for a bite of lunch herself.
Vicki relaxed as she ate, and her thoughts turned
toward home. Chances of getting word to her family
were slim. She hoped they would not worry too
much.
A mumbling from Jodys room sent Vicki
hurrying in there. The woman was trying to throw
off the bedcovers, talking confusedly again. Well,
Dr. Guthrie had said that an immediate result of the
medication and treatment could be a slight delirium.
Vicki managed to remain cool as she restrained
Jody from climbing out of the cot. It was time to
clean the wound with antiseptic and apply a fresh
sterile dressing. The doctor had left these. Vicki did
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not want to attempt it while the woman thrashed and

groaned.
Theyll be here! I have to get up
Lie still. Jody, youre sick, you must lie still.
Jody flung her head around on the pillow and
yelled at the ceiling. How can I do it with this
shoulder? They know I have to do it at the
waterfall
Do what? Did they refer to Don and Jake?
Surely those two men would not turn back now.
I have to get dressedthe feathers and all
This is the date.
Vicki was electrified. Feathered Indian
headdressthe night of the full moonif Jody
would only speak coherently, she might divulge the
secret.
Dont they know the snow wont last, the fools?
Why did they leave me like this? Someones got
to
The words trailed off into babbling, then into
groans of pain. Nothing more to be learned in this
outburst, Vicki recognized. Quickly she gave the
woman a mild sedative which Dr. Guthrie had
prescribed.
The sedative was slow to act. Vicki had a stormy
time with the woman. At last she quieted. She fell
suddenly into a fitful sleep, broken by cries and
snatches of words. Vicki decided to let her sleep and
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change the dressing later, but she kept steady watch

at the bedside.
It was a long, tiresome watch. Yet if she were not
here, Vicki reflected, Jody might get up and harm
herself or do any amount of mischief. Set the cabin
afirewander outdoors in the snow, with a fever
search for her gun There was no predicting what a
woman of Jodys dubious character and physical
strength might not do; sometimes delirium lent a
burst of temporary strength. It was imperative to
keep watch for the next few hours, while the first
effects of the medication wore off.
By midafternoon Jody was quiet and relaxed
enough for Vicki to give her necessary care. The
woman seemed rational again; her sullenness and
defiance proved that. Vicki washed her face and
hands, straightened the bedclothes, and gave her a
cup of warm milk.
You might say thanks, Vicki observed.
Nobody asked you to stay here forever.
You really want me away from here, dont
you?
Silence. A hostile glare.
Vicki took care not to ask any more provocative
questions. Any other sort of conversation with the
woman was impossible. Even when Vicki asked, Is
there anything you want? the woman obstinately
kept silent.
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In a little while the warm milk and the warm

stove had their soothing effect. Jody lay back easily
against the pillow and yawned. Five minutes later
she was falling asleep. Vicki waited a full half-hour,
to make sure that Jody was deeply asleep. Judging
by the color in her coarse face and the snores, she
was asleep, all right.
Vicki slipped out to the kitchen. Putting on her
parka and snatching up a winter apple for Noel, she
hurried soundlessly into the woods. This stretch to
the plane was familiar to her by now. Still she would
not like to venture out here again at night, and this
might be her last chance to make contact with the
Mountie before darkness fell.
They met within minutes, near the plane.
Noel Graham was in a stubborn mood, Vicki
perceived at once. Her most beguiling smile had no
effect on him, nor the proffered apple. She had not
foreseen an impasse like this when Noel Graham
had talked so pleasantly at dinner last evening. Well,
any man who wore the Royal Mounted uniform had
to be stern, but that gave Vicki no clue as to how to
deal with Noel.
If the woman is better, Vicki, I advise you to
leave right now.
Vicki decided to be as blunt as he was.
Jody is better, but not well enough to be left
alone. The doctor did specify twenty-four hours.
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However, if thats an order

She left the question hanging in mid-air. The
Mountie studied Vicki, glanced at the plane, then at
his watch.
If you were to leave immediately, you could
reach a big city, where youd be safe overnight.
Noel Graham, may I ask you a question? Can
you nurse the woman?
You know Im posted to patrol duty.
Do you think Jody should be left alone? Shes
been delirious much of the afternoon.
All right, the Mountie said slowly. You did
promise Dr. Guthrie youd stay with her.
Thank you.
He relented enough to smile down at her, and ask
for a report. Vicki conscientiously gave the medical
facts but the important thing, she stressed, had been
the womans rambling, revealing talk.
She kept insisting that she had to get up and take
some action or other, and she very much wanted that
Indian attire which I stumbled onto this morning.
Vicki, are you letting your imagination run away
with you?
Honestly Jody said these things! Another thing,
Noel. Jody made one remark about today being the
date.
Tonight there will be a full moon. So you
conclude that something big will surely happen
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tonight.
Yes. This very night. And, as I told you, I heard
Don and Jake make a remark about the next
delivery.
Noel was convinced. He looked so troubled and
concerned for her, though, that Vicki reminded him
she had the womans gun.
Try not to use it. Ill keep nearby in case of
trouble, just in case.
Do you think reinforcements may reach you
before midnight tonight? Vicki asked.
Its possible. Im confident that by this time our
message has been relayed to the Mercer station.
Sergeant Nichols and one or two of his constables
are due back in Mercer late today, isnt that what the
relay station said?
Or tonight, Vicki corrected.
Very well, if Mercer station doesnt answer, the
relay station will notify the next nearest Mountie
station. I believe that is about sixty miles away.
Vicki shivered. If the men at that station were not
there, or reported in late, and then had to make their
way through sixty miles of snowy terrain
Are you cold, Vicki? Youre shivering.
Yes, a little cold. But that was not why she was
shivering. She was shivering because she was
frightened. What are your plans for tonight? I
mean, as far as they involve Jody or myself?
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We wont arrest or come back for the woman

tonight. Well respect the doctors order. As for you,
Vicki, stay under cover in the cabin. Ill try to head
off anyone approaching the cabin. Ill stay away
from the cabin as much as possible myselfif
theres any fighting I dont want you within range.
The initials R.C.M.P. on his brass buttons
gleamed in the late afternoon sunlight. Vicki
realized that some of his calm courage stemmed
from the Royal Mounted tradition.
Dont you signal again, he cautioned her,
unless its absolutely necessary.
She knew the Mountie meant that a birdcall if
given too often or at night would be a dead
giveaway. As Vicki turned to return to the cabin,
Noel said cheerfully:
Keep a stiff upper lip. Well take the woman in
sometime tomorrow, and then youll be a free agent
again.
She forced a smile. Tomorrow! Sometime
tomorrow was a long, dangerous way off when she
thought of all that could happen during tonight and
tomorrow!
For the balance of the afternoon Vicki worked in
the cabin. She had difficulty in dealing with Jody,
who was sullen and vague. The woman had had a
good nap and seemed a little stronger. Then Vicki
prepared supper for three persons. She fed Jody first
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and prayed that the woman would fall asleep. She

did not. How to distract her for a few minutes while
Vicki hurried to the rim of the woods carrying
supper to Noel?
Have you a magazine you could look at?
Thanks, but why dont you just keep away from
me?
So Vicki depended on the gathering darkness to
cover her movements. It did not take her long to run
from the cabin door and leave food on a flat stone
hidden among the trees. Then Vicki ate her own
supper, washed the dishes, and cleaned up the
kitchen. She began to realize how tired she was,
after this long, hard day. Heavens, if she was tired,
think how tired Noel must be! And he had to remain
awake, alert all night.
About an hour later Jody fell asleep. Vicki made
sure she was settled for the night.
Vicki planned to use the other cot in the womans
room, but she was wary of sleeping all night
through. If Jody became restless again, she wanted
to keep watch. In any event, she planned to sit up
most of the night.
Vicki did watch. Now the woman was sleeping
fitfully; Vicki kept the pistol in her pocket. After the
womans ravings, she half expected trouble.
It was hard to sit there hour after hour in the dark
room, listening to Jodys heavy breathing. The cabin
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was growing colder; even with her parka on Vicki

felt chilly. She shivered and yawned.
If Im not careful, Ill fall asleep myself. Id
better make some strong hot coffee.
In the kitchen she lighted a lamp and saw by her
wrist watch that it was after eleven P.M. What an
endless day, and the long night still to live through!
Vicki put fresh coal into the stove and brewed some
coffee. As the kitchen grew warm again, she took
off her parka and sleepily made sure the womans
gun was in its right-hand pocket. She could reach it
fast and easily there. She slung the parka across the
back of a kitchen chair, then sat down in the chair at
the table, to sip the hot, black brew.
How good a hot drink tasted, spreading warmth
right down to her toes. . . . Oh, how tired she was.
She leaned on the table. If she could just lean her
head down on her arms, if she closed her eyes just
for a little while . . .

163

CHAPTER XI

Ghost at the Waterfall

Some vague time later Vicki woke up with a start.

Shed dozed off! What time was it?
Her wrist watch had stopped at eleven thirty. The
flame of the lamp flickered; the kerosene was
running low; grotesque shadows danced on the
walls.
What was wrong in the cabin? Vicki sat tense,
afraid to move. Something was wrongsomething
had happened while she was asleep. She sensed a
disturbance, as if there were an electric charge in the
air.
Noel? Hed come if she called, but she must not
call sheerly out of panic. Where was he now? How
near to the cabin? For all she knew, the lone
Mountie may have met up with a group of gang
members out there in the woods.
Oh, come now, stop worrying, Vicki chided
herself. Perhaps nothing at all has happened. She
listened.
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Utter silence came from Jodys room. The silence

of death, almost. But shed left Jodys door closed,
Vicki reminded herself. Wouldnt that explain it?
Id better see how Jody is. But she felt an
unaccountable reluctance to go in there.
Instead, she went to glance out the window. It
would reassure her if she could catch a glimpse of
the Mountie. That was foolishness! Of course she
knew Noel was keeping out of sight. Anyway, he
might be down in a valley. This was rolling ground.
It was just that the night seemed so long. Vicki
gazed at the full moon riding the heavens, and its
brilliant light streaming down. It was almost as
bright as day outdoors.
Well, am I going in to have a look at Jody or
arent I? Ill carry the lamp in there. The light should
chase any spooks out of my mind.
With the lamp held tightly in her left hand, Vicki
tiptoed toward the womans room. The door was
closed, as she had left it. Nevertheless, the uncanny
sense of trouble persisted. Patient or foeshe had
better see how the woman was.
Easing the door open and holding the lamp aside,
Vicki peered in. At first she was afraid to believe
what she saw. Maybe she was not thoroughly
awake. She was so tired, it was hard to wake up. She
held the lamp forward to see better. The womans
cot was empty!
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So was the second cot. So was the entire room.

Frantically Vicki ran into the smaller bedroom. It
was empty. The closet? Vicki pulled the door open,
but the woman was not in there. The woman was not
anywhere in the cabin.
Id better find her! Vicki thought. Wandering
outdoorsmaybe still with a feverand with
heaven knows what wild ideas in her mind.
Vicki snatched her parka from the chair back,
pulled it on, and rushed outdoors. The moonlight
seemed theatrical and unreal at first. She scooped up
a handful of snow and wet her eyes with itgood,
that woke her fully. So did the blowing wind.
In the bright white moonlight the womans
footprints in the hard-packed snow made a trail.
Vicki followed it; it led toward the clearing, but off
at an angle, not heading to the plane. Then Vicki
realized the trail led toward the roaring sound of the
waterfall.
When she approached the clearing, Vicki hoped
against hope for a glimpse of the Mountie. She
glanced quickly around for the footprints of his
boots, but only the womans footprints beckoned her
on. They cut across a corner of the clearing. With a
longing look at the Cub, Vicki ran as fast as the
snow would let her across the open, brilliant
clearing. She felt as exposed as a fly; if anyone in
the woods wanted to shoot at her, she was a highly
166

visible target. Breathing hard, she made it to the far

side of this meadow and ducked into a second area
of woods which led uphill.
From here, the waterfall sounded loud and near.
From here, too, Vicki caught sight of a figure. Was
it Jody? It must bethat powerful frame with the
left arm hanging limp. It could be no one else but
Jody up ahead, wearing the Indian dress. The tall
feather of her headdress fluttered and lifted again in
the wind.
Id better slow down. At this pace Ill catch up
with her. That wont do. She mustnt see me! Not at
any cost!
The woman ahead was trudging slowly; the fever
caused by the strong medication must have worn off.
Still, strong force must be pushing her forward. The
strength of desperation. Vicki recalled the womans
determination even in delirium this afternoon I
got to get up! I got to do it! she had cried out. What
strange behavior was she up to, garbed like the
Indian maiden of the legend?
Vicki took care to move along in shadow as much
as possible. Jody might take a notion to turn around
at any moment.
The going was uphill and difficult. By now the
waterfall made a thundering roar. The high crest of
the falls came into sight, sheets of water pouring and
boiling over a sheer rock cliff.
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Then Vicki saw what the woman was doing, and

caught her breath. If Jody was still dazed, she must
not be permitted to climb up that rocky, slippery-wet
incline. Why, she was heading straight up for the
crest of the big falls!
Id better call to her, Vicki thought. Ill take
my chances with her. Its better to do that than let
her risk her life.
Vicki opened her mouth to shout, but a second
thought stopped her. Suppose the woman were not
fully conscious? She was on precarious ground. A
shout could startle her so badly that she might slip
and fall.
So Vicki did not call, but followed along behind
with her heart in her mouth. The rocky incline up
which the woman toiled gleamed with water and ice
and crevices of snow. Below lay the steep drop. The
woman climbed higher, the disabled left arm
swinging like something dead.
Im not going up there after her, Vicki decided.
Id be risking her life as well as my own.
She dropped to her knees under a low-spreading
fir, and huddled in its shadow.
Astonishing, the way the heavy womanweak
from an injurynimbly made her way. She did not
fumble for footing; Jody seemed to know the rocky
contour by heart. For a moment Vicki lost sight of
the grotesque figure as water and mist swirled high
168

in the wind.
The mist droppedthere she was again, but
higher! How high did Jody dare to go on this
precipice? Vicki strained to see, up at the foaming
crest, whether any rock jutted forth where one could
stand and not be swept over the falls. So close did
the woman come to the crest that Vicki was tempted
to shut her eyes, not watch any more. If Jody
slipped, she didnt want to see the woman falling to
her death.
The woman had stopped moving. Only two or
three feet away from the crest itself, she had found
some footing on which to balance herself. It took
nerve to stand thereunless Jody did not know
what she was doing.
The woman stood there, looking out over the
woods. Then she stretched out her arms in a typical
Indian gesture and wailed. Fully visible in the full,
bright moonlight, Jody gave howl after eerie howl.
Vicki felt goose flesh rise. What weird, insane sort
of performance was this? If the legend had not told
of men who never came back, she could think: Im
seeing the Indian maiden ghost debunked. So she
was, but the knowledge of what this woman was
capable of frightened Vicki more than ghosts. She
became terrifyingly aware of her own danger.
On a night like this, with the light of the full
moon, the Indian maiden on the crest could see
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and be seen for miles. And heard! Vicki thought of

Noel Graham, somewhere down below, possibly
still alone. She had no way of knowing whether the
Mountie was seeing this outlandish performance. If
Noel were, by ill chance, to run across the clearing,
Jody would see him and recognize the identifying
uniform he wore. The clearing was not so far away
that she couldno, not shoot at him herselfsignal
someone else to shoot at the Mountie.
Signal! Was that what the woman was doing?
Belief in any ghostly legend about the waterfall was
out of the question now. Jody and nothing else had
scared the villagers away from this area.
Why does she stand up there and wail for so
long? It must be a good ten minutes!
Unless Jody was mad, clear out of her mind
Shed had two spells of delirium today. Wandering
outdoors in the snow could have sent her
temperature soaring.
Vicki saw that the woman was beginning to make
the perilous descent from the crest. She had the
sense to come down backward, her back to Vicki.
One step, then cautiously another, Jody felt for a
footing. Then she glanced at her wrist watchand
this deliberate gesture gave her away, so far as Vicki
was concerned.
Shes no more delirious than I am! This act was
staged and for some purpose.
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For what purpose? To scare the natives away

from this area, that much Vicki could guess. And
why were the natives unwanted here? What was
going on, related to the caches of valuable stolen
furs, that the smugglers did not want witnessed?
Even though Vicki now knew that the woman
was fully conscious, still it made her nervous to
watch that inch-by-inch descent. One misstep, and
the big woman would plunge headlong. Yet how
deliberately she moved, as if the water-worn
hollows in the rock were a crooked staircase which
she had climbed and descended many times before.
The womans earlier ravings came back to Vicki.
I got to get dressed, the feathers and alltheyll be
heresomeones got to do it
Do what? Signal, obviously. The Indian maiden
dress and gestures were, just as obviously, part of
the signal. Signal to whom? Who were they? Must
be the other members of the gang to whom Jake and
Don had referred. And these others were coming
here toto(deliveries due soon, Don had
taunted Jody)to deliver stolen furs. But of course!
Hadnt the Mountie reported that a mink ranch was
robbed recently, and that was not the first robbery.
So Jody is carrying out part of a regular plan or
schedule.
The woman was halfway down the rocky slope.
She was taking it slowly, backing down, having a
171

harder time getting down than climbing up. The

distance between the woman and Vicki was
shrinking. Here, where Vicki crouched under the fir
branches, only a few yards separated her from the
end of the incline. The womans back was to Vicki,
but even so
I cant remain here or Jody will see me.
Vicki had to think fast. She dared not make a
mistake. She hoped to avoid Jody; though the
woman was not armed, she was much bigger and
more powerful than Vicki. If Jody ever guessed that
she had learned the full secret, Vickis life would be
in danger.
How am I going to avoid Jody without being
seen? Ive waited a minute or two too long!
If she ran right now, she could get a headstart
while Jody was backing gingerly down the slippery
incline. She could reach the cabin before Jody. Vicki
foresaw one big difficulty. The full moon cast a
strong light. She feared her running shadow would
give her away.
And when she crossed the open clearing, ahead of
Jody, the woman might see her.
Not if she was quick?
What other alternative was there? What if she let
Jody go ahead alone to the cabin, and slipped in
later? But if Jody discovered Vicki was gone No,
that plan wouldnt do. No other idea occurred to her,
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and she had not a moment to waste as the woman

doggedly backed down the incline.
Vicki slid away from the fir branches, then
getting to her feet, hurried away. She was grateful
for the roar of water which drowned out her
crunching footsteps in the snow. Vicki ran downhill,
in and out among the trees.
Ahead, the Cub looked very small and the
clearing very large. She put on a fresh burst of
speed, hoping that the woman might not see her. Nor
anyone else lurking here, either. Gaining the more
familiar woods, she ran all the way. Glancing back
over her shoulder showed her nothing. No trace of
the Mountie.
Vicki burst out of the woods, across a stretch of
snow, and into the cabin. Closing the door, she saw
outside her freshly made footprints in the snow. A
giveaway! And here on the kitchen floor, in the light
of the still-burning lamp, were her fresh wet
footprints.
She could only pray that the woman would not
notice.
Vicki pulled off her parka and hung it across the
back of the kitchen chair. She flung herself into the
chair and assumed the same pose as before, head
resting on her folded arms, feigning sleep.
Against her closed eyelids she could almost see
the woman coming closer and closer to the cabin. If
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only she could be sure that the woman had not seen
her, or her footprints!

174

CHAPTER XII

Night of Terror

The woman was slow in coming. Vicki heard her

stepsheavy, even in the snow. Vicki trembled with
the effort to keep her eyes closed. The cabin door
banged open. A hand like stone fell on Vickis
shoulder and all but tore her out of the chair.
You little sneak! Followed me, didnt you?
Let me go! Take your hands away!
Spied on me, didnt you? Ill fix
Vicki squirmed partly free and reached for the
chair back, into the pocket of her parka. The pocket
was empty.
Jody laughed coarsely. Lookin for this? She
shoved the pistol under Vickis nose.
So you took it while I was asleep, Vicki
gasped.
The woman seized Vickis arms with a wrench
that made her cry out in pain. Stole my gun, and
figured I was too sick to know! Whyd you follow
me?
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If youd stop hurting me, Id tell you.

I wont let you go again, not a chance! Answer
me! Followed me right to the falls, didnt you?
Youre sick, Vicki panted. I thought you were
deliriousI was worried about you, thats why I
Jody took a firmer grip on the gun. Well, I know
one sure way to keep you from ever tellin what you
saw just now.
Please, please Pleading was useless. Vicki
decided to use another tack. If you shoot me, youll
face a murder charge. A lot of people know Im
here. Ive already told people that youre here, and
your name, Vicki bluffed.
You did, did you? The woman slowly lowered
the pistol. I mightve known. Well, thats not goin
to help you! Ive got you now. And Im not givin
you another chance to blab about me.
The woman had grown cautious, but she was not
intimidated. Vicki tried again.
If you had to get away from here fast, you may
be too sick to do it. Youd better let me alone.
Dont tell me what to do! Ill get out of here
but maybe youll never get out, see?
What was the woman planning to do to her? Jody
began to drag her towardwhat? The bedrooms?
The closet? Vicki braced her feet and pulled back,
but the womans strength was amazing. It was like a
mosquito struggling against a bear.
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The woman dragged Vicki, stumbling, into the

hallway. Jody hesitated there. So she had no definite
plan! Not yet. Vicki hoped that the woman would
lock her into the smaller bedroom. With luck she
could escape out the window.
Must you push that gun into my ribs? The cold,
blunt steel terrified her.
Keep still. Im thinkin.
Then Jody pulled open the door of the fur closet
and shoved Vicki in there. The woman quickly
slammed and locked the door.
Ill smother in here! Vicki cried out.
Theres ventilation. For the furs, not for you.
The womans heavy footsteps retreated.
The closet was pitch dark. Not a ray of light
penetrated, not even from the ventilator. Vicki
located it by standing on tiptoe at the rear of the
closet and reaching over her head. A current of cold
air blew down through there.
Vicki sank down on the floor in dejection. She
knew she should try to keep a cool head, but the
brutal woman, and now the cold and dark, were too
much for her. For some minutes she sat in a heap on
the closet floor, her mind and body half numbed. So
this was the thanks she received for nursing the
woman. The irony of it was, out of consideration for
Jody, neither Noel Graham nor Dr. Guthrie would
return to the cabin until tomorrow.
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Im freezing, Vicki realized.

Should she call to Jody? That would be worse
than useless.
Ive got to help myself. Maybe theres
something hanging in the closet I could keep warm
in.
The idea of getting up and feeling around in the
dark loomed like a mountain-high effort. Whats
the matter with me? Vicki thought. I mustnt give
in to hopelessness. She forced herself to a standing
position.
Groping along the walls of the closet, where this
morning the Indian costume had hung, she felt some
rough, woolen garment. It smelled dirty, but she
drew the coat around her. If she could find other
garments, or a blanket, she might lie down and rest a
bit. Dared she sleep? She had fallen asleep in the
kitchen chair and it had cost her the gun. Sleeping
this night might cost her her life.
Vicki found another rough garment and sat down
on it. Fear kept her alert. What time was it? Her
wrist watch did not have luminous numerals and
hands. Anyway, she recalled, it had stopped. She
could only estimate the time. She had fallen asleep a
little after eleven. The womans act at the waterfall,
according to legend, occurred at midnight and had
lasted quite a while. It was probably around one
A.M. now.
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Four or five hours since she had talked to Noel!

Had the Mounties from Mercer station reached Noel
by this time? Even if they have, it wont do me any
good.
Time drifted by. Vicki became aware that on the
other side of her dark closet, the woman was pacing
up and down. Ceaselessly, back and forth. Jody must
be edgy. Now and then Vicki heard the cabin door
open, then shut again. But she heard no one enter,
and no voice spoke to Jody. So Jody was looking
outlooking for cohorts to arrive? After that signal
performance at the waterfall, she must be expecting
someone to come.
Vicki sensed from the pacing footsteps that the
woman must feel like a trapped rat. Don and Jake
had sarcastically promised her that the next haul
would be hersfor all the sarcasm, it was a promise
of sorts. Was Jody, then, looking for some sign of
other ring members bringing a fresh load of stolen
pelts? Vicki decided the woman could hardly be
watching and waiting for anything else. And the
fruitless wait was not improving Jodys temper.
A chair scraped, the coffeepot banged. If only
Jody would go quietly back to her cot! Then Vicki,
who was so very tired, might feel she, too, could
rest. It sounded as if Jody were fixing herself
something to eat in the kitchen. That meant the
kerosene lamp was burning.
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In the dark Vicki half smiled to herself. From the

woods, wherever the Mountie was, the cabin must
appear peaceful. Its lighted kitchen windows and
Jodys darkened windows would reasonably lead the
Mountie to believe that the woman was asleep, and
that Vicki had left a light on in the kitchen. Vicki
wished Noel would venture close enough to the
cabin to see Jody moving around the kitchen, alone.
No such luck, Vicki admitted wearily. There was
no use wishing and half imagining that she heard the
birdcall. No use at all, listening for Noel Grahams
step and voice at the cabin door. His plan was to
stay away, and keep any other gang members away
from the cabin. That was to protect her. What a cruel
joke! Besides, Vicki realized wryly, Noel still
thought she had the womans gun and so was
protected. He had no possible way of knowing that
the pistol was back in Jodys hands, and that she
herself was a prisoner.
I cant expect any help from Noel soon. Not
until sometime tomorrow. If that will be soon
enough
The impatient pacing started up. Would the
woman never rest? Was she keeping awake because
she was devising a plan?
You, in there!
Now what? Vicki felt too sick to answer.
A heavy pounding sounded on the closet door.
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181

You! Answer me! Whats your name?

Vicki, she replied faintly.
Mighty fancy name. Havent suffocated yet?
Jody howled with laughter, then bellowed, I want
to know something. Can you hear me?
Yes.
Where were you and that nurse last night?
At James Bay.
What for?
To see her brother. He works at the nickel
mines.
Whod you talk to at the mines? Whod you
shoot off your mouth to, about me and this place?
Jody was beginning to put two and two together.
Was there any chance she knew a Mountie had been
posted in the vicinity of the mines? The mink ranch
which had been looted was not far from the mines.
Whod you talk to? Jody shouted.
People. She must not expose the Mountie.
Quit lyin! You talked! Whod you tell?
Nobody special, I tell you. Just people at the
hotel. There was nobody special to tell.
Silence followed, as if Jody were turning this
over and over.
Then whyd you come back here?
To bring you a doctor.
Some reason!
I did bring Dr. Guthrie here.
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I couldve killed you for that. Whatd you tell

the doctor? Answer me!
Vicki swallowed hard. Nothing much. How
could I? I dont know much about you to tell.
You didnt, but now that you spied on me at the
waterfall, you know plenty. A pause. That doctor.
Is he comin back here tomorrow?
Vicki hesitated. I dont know.
The woman railed at her on the other side of the
door. Then the footsteps went away. What was Jody
doing? The quiet made her uneasy.
Something light fell to the floor in the womans
bedroom. Not a chair or a shoefainter than that.
One of those cardboard boxes she herself had looked
through? She heard Jody tramping around in there.
The footsteps came close to the closed door. For a
moment Vicki thought the woman was going to drag
her out, and she shook like a leaf.
You! You been snoopin in my room?
No.
While I was out of my head, I mean. You sure
you didnt poke into my personal things? My
notebook is missin.
Wh-what notebook?
None of your business.
Vicki kept quiet. She did not believe she had
disarranged the boxes or left any telltale clue.
You in there! I got a mind to take you out and
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search you!
In the dark Vicki recoiled. I havent got your
notebook! Vicki shouted back. Maybe your
husband took it.
Dont give me any foxy answers!
But apparently the idea was sinking in, to judge
by Jodys sudden silence. Vicki saw a way to divert
Jodys anger from herself.
Your husband and brother walked out on you,
didnt they? They took the load of minks and left
you here, didnt they?
Yeah. But that doesnt prove they swiped my
notebook, too.
Vicki did not know what to say; she bluffed.
Figure it out for yourself. I should think youd see
why.
Jody grunted and muttered. Thinking was slow
work for her.
Say! Do you mean I got it! You mean they
didnt only just cheat me out of that mink load. You
mean that theyre not going to work this racket for
me any more.
To Vicki the mens words yesterday had meant
unmistakably that. Perhaps Jody had been too sick to
comprehend or too cocky to believe them. Shed
always been the leader. As late as this minute the
woman could not believe it.
They wouldnt dare do that to me! I got too
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much on them. Theyll go right on takin their

orders from me. A pause. You sure you didnt
swipe my notebook? I wont hurt you if you tell me
you did.
I swear I havent your notebook. Youyou can
search me and see for yourself. That should
convince her, Vicki thought.
Maybe you gave it to somebody? Yesterday up
at the mines.
Vicki was startled. Jody was shrewder than she
had realized. No, I didnt. Nobody up at the mines
would want your notebook, now, would they?
All right, then! The woman howled as if stung.
If Don and that dumb brother of mine think they
can pull a double cross on me, Ill fix em! Ill beat
it out of here the minute it gets light. Theyll get
theirs!
What are you planning to do? Vicki called.
But Jodys footsteps retreated and she did not
bother to answer Vickis repeated calls. Vicki sank
down in the dark, puzzled. The woman planned to
flee from here at daylightto follow Don and Jake
in some wayand probably to avoid seeing the Pine
Tree doctor again. And what is my part in Jodys
plan? Vicki could only pray the Mountie would
look in at the cabin by daylight.
A long time went by. Vicki huddled in the coat.
In spite of herself, she must have dozed in the dark,
185

cold closet. A profound silence had settled over the

cabin. She listened hopefully for Jodys snoring, but
instead heard a few shuffling footsteps. Jody was
awake, and doing something.
In despair Vicki waited. Blurred images of the
waterfall and the snowy woods came back to her, as
if by longing for the outdoors she could escape. She
listened vainly for any shouts or echoes, for any
sounds of activity, out there in the woods. All she
heard was the ceaseless waterfall. Was there any
lonelier, vaster place to be held captive than in the
Canadian woods? To cheer herself, she tried to think
of tales of the Mounties exploits, how thoroughly
they knew the land, how they outwitted people like
these. The stories did not lend her any immediate
reason to hope. She thought of Dr. Guthrie and his
wife, decent, kind people, safely asleep in their beds
in their neat house. They might as well have been on
the moon. All hope was chilled out of her, as the
night air whistled through the ventilator, and the
frame cabin shook in a north wind sweeping down
from the Arctic. That wind was enough to tear apart
a light plane, even if she had had any hope of getting
the Cub aloft. She saw the Cub, in her minds eye,
sharp and clear to the last detail, as a haven she
could not reach.
You! Wake up in there!
Im awake, Vicki said resignedly.
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I have news for you. Jodys voice had a new,

brisk, determined ring to it. Im goin to keep you
with me until it gets daylight, see? Then Ill figure
what to do with youafter you do what I want.
After you do what I want. What would that be?
To fly her out of hereor to use Vicki as a decoy
or even dress her up in the Indian robes and involve
her in the waterfall hoax. Anything was possible,
Vicki knew, issuing from a twisted nature like
Jodys. Then Ill figure what to do with you.
Vicki did not like to think about that. The woman
had all but said, Then Ill figure how to put you out
of the way.
She heard hammering. It seemed to come from
the smaller bedroom. In the middle of the night the
hollow blows had a dread sound. The hammering
persisted but moved around. It stopped.
All right now! Come on out.
The closet lock clicked as a key turned, then the
door swung open. Vicki blinked in the sudden
brightness of the kerosene lamp left on the floor.
She hung back in the shadows of the closet,
shrinking away from Jody.
The woman stepped in after her. Come on, she
said roughly, yet coaxingly. Didnt I tell you Id
keep you till morning? What are you so scared of?
Suddenly the closet seemed preferable to
anything Jody might offer. Vicki backed against the
187

closet wall.
Come on. I want to keep you in good condition.
Because Ill be needin you.
Vicki was paralyzed with fear and could not
move. The woman pulled her forth and pushed her
into the smaller bedroom.
Get in there and stay in there! Heres a blanket.
Go on! Got to take care of you.
What did the woman mean? Jody slammed the
door and locked her in.
For a minute or two Vicki could scarcely believe
in her luck. The chance to sleep on a cot, with an
extra blanketthat was unimportant. The important
thing was the windows!
It took all of Vickis restraint to sit quietly on the
cot until Jody stopped moving around. Moonlight
made the room bright. She could see the windows
details only fairly well, though. Then she heard the
woman tramp into the other bedroom. That door
closed.
On tiptoe Vicki approached the rear window. She
took her pencil-size flashlight from her slacks
pocket and then saw that Jody had nailed the
window tightly in place. The old nails were back,
and Jody had taken the precaution of hammering in
additional nails. The little screw driver would never
budge this new job!
Vicki ran to the other window, at the side of the
188

cabin, and examined it closely. It, too, could never

be opened enough for her to escape. She was still as
much a captive as she had been while locked into
the closet.
During the night Vicki lay on the cot in the
ghostly moonlight and thought long thoughts about
home. She regretted not having sent a message home
from the mines when she had first thought of it. Not
only for her own safety, but because her family and
Bill Avery must be alarmed by now at her failure to
return. It was terribly inconsiderate of her not to
have communicated; she could imagine how worried
her parents, especially, must be. As for a radio
message home, neither Dr. Guthrie nor the Mountie
had encouraged her to believe that could be done.
I wish Bill Avery would be alarmed enough to
search for me. If not only for me, then for his plane,
too, Vicki thought as the night dragged on. She
comforted herself a little with the thought that Bill
might search. He knew her destination and had a
copy of her route, on a duplicate flight map. She
wished, too, that the Mounties who worked in this
far-flung wilderness could report back to their
station oftener.
But Vicki could only wish. She was helpless to
act. After a time of fruitless brooding, she fell into a
troubled sleep.
She awoke to a nightmare. Jody was opening the
189

door, gun in hand, and the room was gray with the
first daylight.

190

CHAPTER XIII

A Quick Ruse

Jody was changed, Vicki could not figure out why

the woman should bother to prod her into the
kitchen, and give her bread and coffee. Another
thing, Jody was talking freely.
Vicki peered at her while downing the coffee.
Most of her talk was incoherent, upset, angry. Her
left arm and shoulder obviously pained her. But she
had her outdoor garments on, and was busily
reloading the gun with her good right hand.
What are we going to do? Vicki ventured.
Youll find out soon enough. And maybe it isnt
we, maybe
Vicki lifted her head. She heard a distant plane. It
was moving very fast, and it was coming toward the
cabin.
She disguised her interest but listened acutely.
Could it be a plane from the Aviation Section of the
Mounted Police? Noel had told her the other
evening at the mines that Mounties piloted a dozen
planes on errands of mercy and justice in the lonely
191

north. Or was it Bill, or someone Bill had sent to

search?
The woman heard the approaching plane, too. She
glanced at Vicki distrustfully and up came the pistol
into firing position.
You know anything about that plane?
I wish I did. Vicki could not identify the craft
from its muffled sound, not indoors. It sounded like
a heavy one, possibly an old Army Air Force plane.
She and Jody stood listening. Jody went to the
window but could not see it. Then the engine hum
grew dimmer, then faint. The plane was flying away.
The woman grinned. Vickis heart felt like a stone in
her chest.
Well, get through with that coffee. We havent
got all day. I want to get out of hereand whats
more, I aim to settle a couple of scores. Get
movin.
The woman barely gave Vicki a minute to slip
into her parka and wrap Bills scarf around her
throat. At gun point she ushered Vicki out into the
snow.
Straight ahead and hurry up about it! I guess you
know the way, hey? the woman joked. Jody was in
a kind of grim high spirits this morning. She must
have hit upon a smart plan.
Vicki was not surprised when the woman hustled
her through the woods toward the plane. Having a
192

plane and pilot at her command was too good a

windfall for the woman to overlook. Vicki stumbled
and moved as slowly as she dared, in the gray light.
If there were a chance that the Mountie might see or
hear them
Hurry up, I told you! I want to catch up with that
double-crossin husband and brother of mine. With a
plane Ill beat em to the border! Well see if they
can cut me out!
Jody was talking a blue streak. Not to Vicki,
particularly; she needed an audience to rehearse her
ideas.
Im catchin up with them two traitors if its the
last thing I do! And youre goin to help me. Im not
lettin them slip out on me with a load of minks. The
most valuable load we ever had! Step on it!
Vicki thought she heard the same unknown plane
returning. It was at a considerable distance; its
metallic vibration droned like a bumblebee. Vicki
listened again; the waterfall had drowned it out.
There! She heard it again, dim but steady. Jody was
so busy talking that she heard only her own voice.
You a real good pilot, kid? Because I want you
to do somethin for me. Don and Jake are only the
half of it. I have to beat it out of here on account of
that doctor. Knows Im here, with you nursin me.
How do I know he wont bring Mounties from Pine
Tree and Mercer over here? Supposin they saw
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your plane and began askin questions?

Vicki was listening to the plane she could not see.
It was coming nearer. The way its propellers were
pitched and whined, it sounded like a cargo plane,
the kind equipped for night flying. Sounded like a
DC-3.
You havent said a word. Look at me! Jody
ordered. Are you sleepwalkin? Cant you see
where were at?
The clearing and the Cub lay just ahead of them.
All right, I understand, Vicki said. She glanced
at the gun in the womans good right hand. You
want me to fly you south to the border.
Not so fast, Miss Smarty! That isnt what I want
at all.
It isnt?
This was a nasty surprise. Vicki had accustomed
herself, while they walked, to the idea of serving as
the womans pilot. She didnt like it, but saw a ray
of hope if she could reach the Cubs controls. Jodys
contradiction gave her a jolt.
Me, but not you. Im the one whos goin to fly
out of here.
But you cant handle the Cub, Vicki protested.
Oh, cant I? What makes you think youre the
only pilot around here? It so happens that Don
taught me how to fly. That was the only good thing
Don ever did for me.
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The bottom dropped out of everything for Vicki.

If the woman was also a pilot, then about the only
tactic left was to stall for time. Stall, and pray that
the distant plane, which had circled off somewhere,
would fly over.
What do you want me to do? Vicki knew the
answer without asking.
She was obliged to watch as Jody climbed into
the pilots seat. The woman kept the plane door
open and the pistol leveled at Vicki. In spite of her
hurry to leave, Jody stopped to grin, enjoying her
triumph.
I want you to spin the propeller.
Wh-what becomes of me?
Jodys grin vanished. What do I care what
becomes of you? Youre no friend of mine! Thanks
to you, I cant use the cabin again. You fixed it sos
I have to start up operations somewhere else. All I
care about you is that I need you to spin the prop for
me. Get movin! I hear that plane again!
Vicki reluctantly moved toward the nose of the
Cub. If that plane were flying overand it sounded
closer nowshe should at least play for time.
Maybe the pilot would sense that something was
wrong down here.
You dont dare abandon me, either, Vicki said.
Turn that prop over! the woman screamed at
her. Or Ill let you have it and spin it myself!
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That was barely possible. Vicki saw it was

dangerous to argueshe had already strained Jodys
impatience to the limit. Could she run into the
woods? Make a wild dash for cover? Anything, any
chance, was better than helping Jody to escape! No,
the woman would shoot her down instantly.
Vicki heard a click. Jody had released the guns
safety catch. Vicki put her hands on the propeller.
The drone of the approaching aircraft came louder
now. It was a DC-3Bill owned an old DC-3. Did
she imagine that this engine in the sky sounded
familiar?
She turned the prop over a few times, slower than
would be effective. Vicki gambled on the chance
that while Jody might be pilot enough to fly the
Cub, she probably was no expert about a planes
mechanics.
Whats the matter, you? Quit stallin!
The engine is chilled. That was partly true.
Well, do somethin about it!
Im trying to, Vicki replied, but the engine
isnt catching.
The DC-3 roared in above the clearing. Vicki
looked up. The number on the wing was Bills! It
was Bill! She could have wept and shouted for joy.
The DC-3 reached the end of the big clearing and
circled back.
Whats goin on here? the woman shouted.
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Dont forget the gun!

Vicki nodded and pushed back the hood of her
parka so Bill could see her yellow hair. Surely hed
recognize herand the Cub!
Spin that prop! Faster! I turned on the ignition
and its all right, you faker!
Vicki spun the prop a little. The DC-3 circled
again and came roaring in low over the Cub. Bill
must have recognized her, praise be. Hed be
coming in for a landing any minute now, he was
searching for an angle to turn, trying to land into the
windBill was unaware of Jody in the Cub, maybe
he thought that was Ruth Hall sitting in there.
Certainly he didnt know Jody had a gun. Jody
would shoot him down in cold blood.
How can I signal to Bill with a gun pointed at
me?
She pulled off Bills scarf and pretended to wipe
her face with it. Would he realize she was using his
scarf to tell him something?
What are you wavin that scarf for? The
woman, suspicious, turned off the ignition and
clambered out of the Cub. Her face was drawn and
desperate. Nobodys goin to stop me from gettin
away! Ill kill anybody that tries to!
Bill was losing altitude, gliding in. In about a
minute he would be landing. As soon as he came
within range, Jody would shoot at him, thinking he
197

came from the Mounties or from enemies.

Bill was having difficulty getting his plane in a
position for landing. Then he came soaring down so
fast that the wind of the DC-3 took the breath out of
Vicki. Only seconds left to divert the woman. To
make her use up her ammunition in some way.
Ill run! Ill zigzagBill will see Im acting as a
decoy. Some vague notion struck her that if either
Bill or she had to be the target, she had better risk
being disabled. Bill could knock down Jody but she
never could.
You, you Vicki! Come back here! Come back or
Ill shoot!
Vicki ran for all she was worth away from Bills
plane, and suddenly turned off at an angle. A shot
rang out. Vicki ducked as the shot went wild. She
confusingly ran in the opposite direction, then as
Jody took aim, fled in a zigzag pattern and ducked
the second bullet.
You tryin to make me kill you? the woman
screamed.
Vicki! Bill came running. In heavens name

She motioned to him and yelled, Jody! Mounties

in the woods! Look there! and pointed.
The woman wasted two more bullets on nothing
but leaves. In that minute Vicki managed to run
around the other side of the Cub and take cover, to
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catch her breath. But Bill kept coming. The woman

aimed at him and fired.
Bill! Duck!
The bullet missed him by inches. He skidded to a
stop, stunned as Vicki was to see the woman
suddenly let the gun drop to her side. Had she run
out of bullets? Vicki had seen the Mountie check
that gun and didnt think so. Or had the gun
jammed, or did Jody have a new plan? The woman
looked toward the Cub, desperation in her face.
Then, suddenly, Jody ran across the clearing
toward the woods which led uphill to the waterfall.
Vicki! Bill yelled. You stay here. Ill go after
her!
Vicki ignored him and ran, too. Bill! Her guns
still loaded!
You all right?
Vicki nodded and wasted no more breath. Bill
outdistanced her. Vicki came panting into the
woods. Bill was ahead of her, and Jody had a good
lead.
The woman darted in and out among trees, so that
it was hard to keep her in sight. It was singularly
hard to gain on her. Jody had the advantage. She
knew the terrain. Bill with his long legs could not
quite reach her, and Vicki tried vainly to think of
any cut-through. She remembered from last night
how steep, narrow, and under-grown these hilly
199

woods were.
Vicki pressed forward, slipping maddeningly in
the snow. A turning in the woods gave her an
unexpected vistaand she saw Jody clambering like
a goat at the base of the rocky incline.
Shes climbing up to the waterfall, Bill in
astonishment called back to Vicki.
Was this the way the Indian maiden had led
victims to their deaths? By luring them up the
incline, and then pushing them off into the screen of
water and jagged rocks below?
Bill! Dont go up after her!
He nodded, and slowed down. Vicki caught up
with him. They saw Jody on all fours near the crest.
Whats she going up there for? Bill demanded.
To signal. I thinkto signal for help
The chance of Jody being seen for any distance in
the early-morning mist was small. She must be too
confused to think of that, or the woman might think
strangers would never dare follow her up there.
Well, wed better catch her before she alerts her
friends.
Careful! Vicki warned. Wed be easy targets
for her, shooting downhill.
They ran as far as the low-spreading fir tree
where Vicki had crouched last night. Bill seemed
determined to go right up after her.
Bill, youre crazy! Vicki pulled on his arm.
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Right, he admitted, breathing hard. Now what

do we do?
But where can she go from up there?
Keeping themselves concealed, they watched
Jody. She was crawling close to the top now but
faster than last night, not as carefully. She stumbled.
She reached with her left hand but the injured
shoulder failed her. Her whole body swerved.
Clinging perilously to the height, Jody groped with
her good right hand. The pistol fell out of her right
hand, and came clattering and bouncing down the
incline.
Look! Bill said. Her gun
Jody glanced over her shoulder but did not risk
the time to retrieve it. Like a greyhound, Bill loped
to the base of the incline, quickly clambered up and
picked up the gun. He snapped it open, then shut, as
Vicki came running up to him.
Shells left? she asked.
Yes. Now Im the armed one.
They stood staring up at the woman, curious and
a little sick at her closeness to the stony edge.
Finally she struggled almost to the crest, and stood
upright in the spot where she had found her footing
last night. She stared down at Vicki and at Bill who
held her gun. There was no triumph now in Jodys
heavy face, only blankness.
Jody! Vicki called. Come down! We wont
201

hurt you.
Im not lettin you capture me!
Bill shouted, Where can you go from up there?
A wave of animal fear swept over Jodys face.
She looked down into the roaring water and the pit
below. They saw her close her eyes for an instant.
Then the woman gazed around in back of her, into
the swollen waters which could, if she made one
false step, sweep her over the falls. When Jody
turned around again, her heavy face was ashen.
She realizes shes trapped up there, Bill
muttered.
Would she jump? That would be irony, for the
Indian maiden to go to her own death in the
waterfall. Vicki figured Jody was too tough and
stubborn to be willing to die without a fight.
She and Bill watched the woman almost with pity
now, as the heavy figure backed slowly down the
incline. They did not dare shout or rush up there to
grab hershe might go over the side, and so might
they themselves.
Jody made it to where the rocky incline ended.
She made a feint and started to run. Bill
outmaneuvered her.
You havent a chance! he said. He grabbed
Jody in a viselike grip. Vicki, take the scarf and tie
her hands behind her back. He covered Jody with
her own gun.
202

CHAPTER XIV

Captured!

Was it coincidence? Or was it shrewd timing?

By the time Vicki and Bill Avery half dragged,
half pushed the woman through the downhill margin
of woods, Vicki caught a glimpse of two tall brown
figures. The sun was ablaze and in her eyes.
Whos that? Bill asked. He stood still.
Ahoy, there! Vicki Barr! One of the brown
figures raised his arm.
Vicki said in relief, Its Noel Graham. Come on!
She ran ahead, leaving Bill to drag along the
balky woman. Noel and his companion strode across
the clearing to meet her.
Vicki, are you all right? Weve just been to the
cabin and found it empty
My friend Bill Avery has Jody in tow. Yes, Im
all right. She scanned Noels face. He was tired and
dirty, but stood stiffly erect.
This is Corporal John Finnie, from the Mercer
station. This is the girl, Corporal.
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Vicki shook hands with the tall, rangy man. She

turned and saw Bill prodding Jody over to them.
I bet youd turn in your own mother, for a
reward! she screamed at Bill.
Bill tightened his grip on the woman and said to
the two Mounties, Just the men I want to see.
Heres a woman who tried to kill Vicki and me. He
handed over the woman and the gun.
Noel Graham and Finnie exchanged glances.
Finnie asked, Did you capture this woman?
Well, lets say Vicki and I share the honors.
Noel was staring at her in surprise. But I thought
you had her gun
Its a long story. First, though, this is Bill Avery
from my home towna flierthese are his planes.
Jody, beaten, kicked at the snow.
The woman had the gun, Noel Graham
repeated, but you managed to capture her, anyway?
Congratulations.
Corporal Finnie seconded that. By now Bills
eyes were popping, too.
Say, whats been happening with you, Vicki?
Noel said in the same breath. Ive been badly
worried about you. The twenty-four hours arent up,
but I didnt want to wait longer to arrest this woman.
She doesnt look very sick today, he added dryly.
Jody flung up her head. Im sicksick of you
and this kid and the whole bunch of you! Sposin
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you tell me one thing! Have you been interferin

with some of my friends?
Finnie eyed her. Were you waiting for them to
show up last night?
Yes, and they didnt! You been interferin with
my private business?
Even now Vicki was shaken by the way the
woman, a criminal, asserted she was in the right and
claimed a grudge against the world.
If you mean, said Noel Graham to Jody, the
smugglers who tried to deliver stolen furs to your
cabin last night, certainly we interfered. For your
information we have them under lock and key, in the
custody of the justice officer at Pine Tree.
Jody howled, and poured out indignant protests.
That will do, said Finnie. A prisoner will
speak when spoken to. Well get on to the cabin
now.
Corporal Finnie led the way with the furious,
kicking Jody. Behind them, Vicki walked along
between Bill Avery and Noel Graham. The Mountie
told them that he and the Corporal had been
delayed by a bit of a struggle. Then they had
combed the area again.
That was why they had been coming to the cabin
only now, to arrest Jody.
If Id dreamed you didnt have the gun
But what happened out there in the woods last
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night? Vicki asked. She was burning with curiosity.

Did you see the Indian ghost?
What Indian ghost? Bill demanded. What has
been going on here? Vicki, what delayed you?
Constable Noel Graham smiled. Theres a great
deal to tell on all sides, Mr. Avery. I dont believe
its advisable to talk within the prisoners hearing, if
you dont mind.
In the cabin John Finnie calmly ordered the
woman, Vicki, and Bill to strap on snowshoes. They
were going to Pine Tree, to the house of the justice
officer, which was being used as a temporary jail.
Vicki and Bill were ordered to accompany the party;
Vickis testimony would be needed.
What about my two planes? Bill asked.
Well come back for them when we can, Noel
Graham said. The area is clear of ring members
nowas far as we can tell.
Jody snorted in amusement. How manyd you
round up? Tell me that, and Ill tell you whether
youre in the clear yet.
Keep still, said Finnie.
The five of them trudged off in the direction of
the road. Noel said their jeep was parked some
distance ahead up the road. It was hard going,
between the snow and Jodys obstructing tactics.
She shouted to Vicki:
Wasnt I good to you, kid? Tell em how I gave
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you coffee this morning. And a blanket last night.

Be quiet, said Noel Graham.
When they were a hundred feet from the jeep,
another man in brown uniform approached them
from the direction of Pine Tree. He was saluted by
Finnie and Graham, and returned the salute.
If youre coming for the woman, we have her
here, Sergeant DeLisle, said Noel Graham. I wish
we could claim the credit of capturing her, but Vicki
Barr and her friend Bill Avery did that.
The man was Sergeant Pierre DeLisle, from, as
Finnie was, the Mercer station. The newcomer
looked gravely at Vicki and Bill, but said nothing.
The Mounties conferred in a few words about the
next move to be made. In those minutes Vicki was
struck by how Jody, surrounded by three Mounties,
still remained defiant. As if hate and defiance were
some twisted badge of courage. Her fight was
unavailing.
Vicki? Bill muttered.
Later, she murmured back. Honestly, Im all
right. Are you?
Yes. Flew part of the night. Gosh, you had us all
worried!
Sergeant DeLisle, who was the highest ranking
officer present, decided that he and his corporal
would take Jody in to Pine Tree and from there
escort her and her friends to the prison in Mercer.
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If necessary, Constable Graham, well contact

you by radio. Sergeant DeLisle touched the strap of
the walkie-talkie short-wave radio he wore on his
shoulder.
Is thatI beg your pardon, Vicki gulped.
Sergeant, is that the radio on which you received
our relayed message from Pine Tree yesterday?
Yes, Miss Barr, it is. We came as fast as we
could.
Thank you, Sergeant, Vicki said. Seeing the
radio was somehow reassuring.
Constable, you are to return to the clearing. If
Mr. Avery will let you use his plane, we can try to
intercept the two men with the mink pelts. The
border police have already been alerted, but using
the plane will facilitate the job.
Suppose I fly my DC-3 for you, Bill suggested.
Good. That will leave Miss Barr free to fly home
in the Cub, Sergeant DeLisle replied.
Fly home now! Vicki had no intention of missing
the capture of Don and Jake.
But Id rather fly home when Mr. Avery does.
And two planes in the search would be better than
one, she said practically. Please, Sergeant, if I
could go along, it
DeLisle objected at first, then agreed.
The three of you will take both planes aloft. Fly
south toward the White River border crossing. Good
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luck.
The last Vicki saw of Jody, the woman was being
prodded into the jeep by two Mounties, who were
unimpressed by her yells and kicks.
As Vicki rounded the cabin, with Noel and Bill,
she hoped she was seeing the last of it, too. They
pushed on to where the Cub and the big DC-3 stood
peacefully in the morning sunshine. Only the door of
the Cub hanging open, and Bills scarf fluttering
from a tree branch where the wind had blown it, told
of violence. There might still be violence to come,
Vicki knew. She had not expected to see Don and
Jake again, and did not relish it even with her strong
escorts.
Bill was insistent about handling the twin-engine
DC-3 himself.
If the DC-3 is old and full of tricks, certainly,
Avery, you handle it. Noel wore a hint of a grin.
No objection if Vicki pilots the Cub, and I ride with
her?
They agreed the Cub was to be the lead plane,
since Noel, knowing the White River area
intimately, would serve as navigator. Bill laughed
about a fast DC-3 trying to follow a much slower
Cub. He would fly ahead at his lowest cruising
speed, and circle around the Cub, though not at the
Cubs same altitude. Before they took their places,
Bill retrieved the scarf and handed it to Vicki.
209

I gave it to you for good luck, pigeon. I guess it

was.
Old friends? Noel asked.
I taught her how to fly. One of my many
mistakes.
Vicki smiled and slid into the pilots seat in the
Cub. Noel Graham spun the propeller for her; the
engine caught without trouble. Bill was boosting
himself up onto the big planes wing, and catwalked
into the cabin. The Mountie revved the DC-3s two
propellers; its engines roared and drowned out the
waterfall. Noel ran and climbed into the Cub in back
of Vicki. She slammed the door tightly shut, waved
to Bill, and with power accumulating, started
taxiing.
Noel, what time have you? she called.
Eight ten.
Vicki was amazed. Her watch had stopped at
eleven thirty last night; she set and wound it now.
After eight already! The sun had risen about five
thirty.
How long do you estimate it will take us to
reach White River near the border?
Can your Cub make sixty miles an hour? Then
Id say about four hours. Or more.
That checked with Vickis estimate based on the
flight up here with Ruth Hall. Noel indicated on the
air map the exact course to take.
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If Ruth had been a chatty passenger, the Mountie

was a silent one. Once or twice during the first hour
Vicki glanced over her shoulder; he looked tired
after the nights vigil. It was a long, monotonous
trip. Vicki made very sure to keep on course. Bill
flew circles around the Cub, almost disappeared,
returned again, so that Vicki could see him. Now
and then she tilted her wings to say hello to Bill. He
tilted the DC-3 to answer, All okay.
After they had been flying south for over an hour
and a half, Vicki turned from the controls to call to
Noel Graham. Care to see the flight chart?
He looked down. I can tell where we are.
Making good time. We have about two hours more
to the border. From here on, we may spot the men
anywhere.
He explained that he figured the men, gone two
days plus today, could travel an average of thirty
miles per day on foot, dragging the sleigh. They
might conceivably travel much less, but the Mountie
counted on their having traveled more. He figured
Don and Jake had kept on by moonlight as well as
daylight, pausing for only a minimum of rest.
Can you fly more slowly, Vicki? Safely, I
mean?
She gradually reduced the planes speed, and Bill,
unable to reduce the DC-3s speed, flew figure
eights around the Cub. Both planes lost altitude as
211

well.
Well need to keep close watch to pinpoint the
men from the air, the Mountie said.
He directed her to find a certain secondary road,
since Don and Jake would not be on a paved
vehicular highway, and to fly the length of that road.
They watched the road from the air. The snowy
world below was crystal-clear, but did not reveal
two figures and a sleigh.
Would they be keeping under cover? Vicki
asked.
Possible, if the men know about a certain route.
Try this
Vicki handed the Mountie the air chart. With his
finger he outlined a trail which was not otherwise
marked.
Thats an old Indian trail. You can only get
through on foot. Its still a good trail.
Vicki swerved the Cub over treetops until the
Mountie called, Here! Follow the riverbank, now.
It was harder to see the trail than an open road.
Still, the oak trees below were leafless and sparse.
After a confusing minute, Vickis eyes sorted out the
blur into objects. She flew along as slowly as she
dared, the Cub engine coughing a little in protest,
and she and the Mountie peered below. Bill was
flying some distance ahead above the river itself, so
that he had another angle of the trail. Apparently it
212

did not matter that the Cub had no radio through

which to speak to Bill; he had caught on by
watching.
After some time-consuming circling back along
the trail, they flew out above an intersection where
the trail joined a little-traveled highway. It cut
through farm land, with broad dirt margins on either
side of the highway. They flew above the deserted
highway, scanning it.
Look there! the Mountie exclaimed. The two
figures dragging something. Can you recognize
them, Vicki?
Im not sure its Don and Jake, but thats their
sleigh piled with fur pelts, all right!
Noel said rapidly, There probably wont be a car
coming by here for hoursits safe to land, Vicki. I
want you to fly up ahead, turn back, and come in for
a landing. Make it fast, girl.
The Cub leaped higher into the air under Vickis
touch, and raced ahead. Bill was on the lap back.
Making the turn, she was able to catch Bills eye.
She gestured; Bill held up two fingers, pointed
toward the men, and nodded. Then Vicki swung the
Cub in a wide arc and started back. Bill was holding
off, letting herand the Mountieland first.
Land on the road! Noel ordered.
Vicki nosed the plane down, cut the throttle, and
put it into a steep glide. They came down so fast the
213

road seemed to rush up to meet them. Vicki put the

plane down safely, and so close to Don and Jake that
she could see their startled faces.
The two men recognized the Cub and started to
run, abandoning the sleigh. The Mountie was out of
the plane in a flash. He fired a warning shot over
their heads. Instantly the smugglers separated,
running hard in almost opposite directionsin order
to reduce by half each mans chance of capture.
Halt! Noel yelled. Halt in the name of the law!
The Mountie apparently assumed that the men
were unarmed. For he must have glimpsed, just as
Vicki had, the rifles protruding from the sacks of
pelts on the sleigh. Intent on escape, Don and Jake,
in their panic, had forgotten to grab their rifles when
they started to run.
A noise louder than the report of Noels gun
startled Vickithe DC-3 braked to a sharp,
screeching stop. Bill must have had a tricky time
landing his big aircraft on this road. Again Vicki
heard the report of the Mounties gun, aimed again
into the air, and Dons jeering response, Bring me
back alive, Mountie! Noel raced after him, and
Vicki excitedly started to follow.
A strong arm pulled her back. Bill roughly
pushed her back into the Cub.
You stay in there! Youll get hurt! I can
help
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Youd be in the way.

Bill sped after the lumbering Jake. Vicki saw the
whole thing through the Cubs windshieldsaw Bill
overtake Jake and grab the collar of Jakes jacket.
Jake swerved abruptly, tripping Bill, and sent him
sprawling. Quick as a cat, Jake pounced on Bill. But
Bill was quicker. He rolled out of the way, and the
two men sprang to their feet. Bill sailed into Jake,
his long muscular arms flailing like a furious
windmill at Jakes bearded face. In a moment Jake
staggered, and then slowly crashed to the ground as
a big tree falls under the woodsmans axe. Bill stood
over the prostrate man, then looked for Noel.
Vicki had seen Noel catch up with Don, saw Don
put his hands up at the point of Noels gun. Now
Noel was marching him back toward Vicki, his gun
prodding Dons back.
Dons upraised arms began to droop as he
walked. His elbows sank lower and closer to his
sides. They touched his sides. In a flash he whirled
around, his left elbow sweeping aside Noels gun
and in the same quick movement sent his right fist
smashing into Noels jaw. The Mountie staggered
but didnt fall. Don sprang for Noels tightly grasped
gun. As he grabbed Noels gun hand, the Mounties
other fist thudded hard against the side of Dons
head. Don reeled. Another blow in the same place
and Don lay on the ground at Noels feet.
215

216

Get up, said the Mountie coolly. I didnt hurt

you that badlyIm supposed to bring you back
alive, remember?
He waved at Bill, and together they marched their
prisoners back to the planes. When Don saw Vicki,
his face congested with anger. So its you who
turned us in! Jake merely grinned his empty grin.
Bill was badly mussed up, but the Mountie was as
collected as evera trained fighter, and a cool one.
Keeping the men covered, Noel said to Bill and
Vicki, Taxi your planes off the road. Over on the
dirt margins, please, and tie them down there.
Theres another Mountie station nearby. Well
walk.
What about the furs? Don sputtered. Theyre
ours! Theyre our property. Were fur trappers and
you have no right to
Avery, Ill have to ask you to go back there for
the sleigh. Well drag it in to the station. And dont
try to get away, you two, the Mountie warned the
two men.
Don and Jake were sullen and silent. They
glanced at Vicki with hate and curiosity. She knew
they were in the dark about Jody and events in the
cabin. But nobody spoke as they walked along.
They came to a town sooner than Vicki had
expected. Here she saw the first paved streets and
shops since leaving Fairview. The town was
217

compact, with little traffic and with enough snow to

make it possible to pull the sleigh, although slowly.
Vicki felt odd marching along in a Canadian town
whose name she didnt know, with a Mountie, two
criminals, and her friend Bill in a torn windbreaker.
This way, Noel Graham ordered. Down this
street. He kept his revolver leveled at Don and Jake
who walked in front of him.

218

CHAPTER XV

Uphold the Right

At the foot of a narrow old street, they entered the

Mountie station, a two-story brick building. Noel
Graham reported to a desk officer and stated his
business. They waited while the desk officer relayed
their message, and sent two men to bring the furs
into the building.
A door opened and a middle-aged man in plain
clothes stepped forward. Noel saluted him. The man
returned the salute and said:
Nice work, Constable Graham. To the others,
he said, I am Sergeant Breau. Everyone come this
way, please.
In the office still another man, Staff Sergeant
Howard, and a male secretary were waiting. With
very few preliminaries the senior officers began to
take the report.
First, sir, Noel Graham said, here is a list of
names and addresses of members of the smuggling
ring.
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He handed the notebook which Vicki had found

to Sergeant Breau. The officer leafed through it.
This is useful. Where did you get it?
Miss Barr discovered it in the cabin, sir.
Sergeants Breau and Howard studied Vicki with
considerable interest. She took a deep breath,
knowing they would question her. However, the
officers started with Don and Jake.
Don Glennis, Jody Glennis, alias Don and Mary
Watkins, Jake Caspar, alias Jack Jones, and others,
Sergeant Howard read from a mimeographed report
on his desk, wanted for a series of fur thefts and for
border smuggling Apparently the Royal
Canadian Mounted Police had been doing some
investigating, Vicki concluded.
Their questioning of Jake and Don was grueling.
It brought out the complete facts of how the gang
operated. Don, his wife Jody, and her brother Jake
were based at the cabin where they received the
stolen furs and gave the orders. One set of
accomplices robbed legitimate fur trappers and fur
ranches in central and eastern Canada. A second set
of accomplices acted as transportation men, picking
up the stolen furs and bringing the loot to the cabin
in the woods. From the cabin Don and Jake,
sometimes together or sometimes traveling on foot
with a transportation man, smuggled the fur pelts
from Canada into the United States via a frozen lake
220

or river. Jody, by often remaining at the strategic

cabin during Don and Jakes absences, had made
herself leader of the ring.
It was Jody who had devised the hoax of the
Indian maiden ghost. In order to keep the local
people away from the area where the racket had its
headquarters, the smugglers had spread the waterfall
murder legend. The legend had been half forgotten,
but the smugglers revived it for their own purposes.
Then Jody had herself enacted the ghost act at the
top of the waterfall as a signal to the transportation
men, an all-clear for them to move in from the
woods with their loads of pelts. Their regular
delivery date was fixed at midnight of the first night
of each full moon. Thus the smugglers made very
sure that the area was kept clear.
Miss Barr, said Sergeant Howard, at what
point did you and your nurse friend enter the cabin?
Will you describe, please, what you saw and heard.
Right from the beginning.
Vicki told how she and Ruth Hall had taken
refuge in the cabin and, waiting there, had overheard
part of the quarrel among Jody, Don, and Jakethe
quarrel which apparently reached a climax when
Jody had been shot, accidentally or not so
accidentally. Vicki stated that the three were
bringing bulky packs of fur pelts to the cabin.
Sergeant Howard interrupted. Which furs were
221

those? Answer me, Don Glennis.

Don sulked, Jake grinned, but the two men had no
choice. They answered.
The packs of furs which Vicki saw were the mink
pelts. They had been stolen a week earlier from a
mink farm farther north, near the mines at James
Bay. Since the mink pelts were hot goods, with
the Mounted Police alerted, the transportation agent
did not dare wait for the night of the full moon. He
made an emergency delivery of them, a very short
time after the mink farm was robbed.
But Jody and the two men did not know of the
emergency delivery until Jake went to the Pine Tree
post office three mornings ago, to pick up their mail.
There a letter was waiting from the transportation
agent. Jake brought the letter back to the cabin, to
Jody. Then they learned, from the veiled words of
the letter, that the transportation man had left the
packs of mink pelts secreted in hollow tree trunks in
the woods some distance from the cabin. The gang
had agreed earlier on this emergency arrangement,
in instances of late or delayed delivery or special
jobs. This, too, Don reluctantly admitted had been
Jodys clever idea.
When Vicki and Ruth first saw them, Jody and
the two men were returning with this tree-trunk
cache. They had already been quarreling about
Jodys claim to the largest share of this take. On
222

their way, Jake said, they had seen rabbits, and

wanting fresh meat, shot at them. That was when
Jody was wounded in the shoulder. Don and Jake
helped the woman leader onto the fur-laden sleigh
and hurried back to the cabin and cover.
Where is Jody now? Jake asked.
In our custody, Sergeant Breau replied.
Vicki noticed that neither Don nor Jake asked
how Jody was. The questioning went on, this time
directed at Constable Noel Graham.
After Vicki Barr alerted me at the mines, Noel
started, I was ordered to patrol duty at the area of
the cabin, as you no doubt know. In my judgment
the area was larger than one man could patrol
thoroughly alone, so I sent a radio message asking
for reinforcements. Then I confined my patrol to
those sections of the area where travelers were
likeliest to enter, and where reinforcements could
find me. Also Noel Graham glanced at VickiI
tried to circle back at intervals within call of the
cabin, where Miss Barr was alone nursing the
woman.
He had remained alone on duty, keeping a
lookout, until nearly midnight last night when Finnie
and DeLisle had joined him. They arrived none too
soon. Some time after midnight we became aware
of activity within the woods. It appeared as if a
signal had been given
223

You did not see the Indian ghost? one of the

sergeants asked.
No, sir. We were unable to see much because we
were in dense woods. Noel Graham explained also
that the woods covered rolling ground, and in low
places the Mounties were screened in by treetops. I
did think I heard a distant cry or wailing.
Describe the operation, Constable. What action
did you take?
It was difficult to estimate the number of men
we heard, sir, and they kept shifting their locations.
We assumed they intended to reach and enter the
cabin, but they seemed confused, uncertain what to
do. Perhaps because there was a lighted lamp in one
window. This was the sort of operation in which
smugglers would prefer a darkened house.
Or perhaps, Sergeant Howard suggested, one or
more of the transportation men had caught a glimpse
of a Mountie, revealed in a filtered ray of moonlight.
At any rate, for the three Mounties to locate the
incoming smugglers proved a long, cautious, tedious
process. Each Mountie worked alone but endeavored
to maintain some sort of communication via walkietalkie with the other two. Noel described his part.
For an hour he had combed the woods, alone. The
intruders evaded him. Then three of them jumped
him from in back. Ordinarily he could handle two
men, but three was more than he could manage. A
224

bitter struggle took place. Noel captured and bound

one man to a tree. The other two escaped. He went
in search of them. The second man he tackled was a
gigantic fellow. It took considerable time to subdue
him, Noel added matter-of-factly.
With the second man secured to a tree, and the
bonds of the struggling first man made fast again,
Noel Graham had gone off in search of the third
man and his fellow Mounties. I found them busy,
he said with a grin, when I found them.
DeLisle and Finnie had quietly rounded up eight
prisoners. At no point did the Mounties need to
shoot, though the smugglers were armed. Then, with
DeLisle guarding the eight captured men, Finnie and
Noel Graham combed the woods once more. They
did not find any more members of the ring, although
that did not prove the area was entirely clear. They
took a few minutes more to collect the loads of pelts
which the transportation men had been trying to
deliver to Jody at the cabin.
By four A.M. the Mounties decided to march their
eight prisoners into the hamlet of Pine Tree. They
would keep the men impounded there overnight.
Mercer, which had a jail, was too far to walk, and
DeLisle and Finnie had brought only their one jeep.
They loaded the jeep with the fur pelts, and Sergeant
DeLisle was to drive it alongside the prisoners to the
hamlet.
225

But just as the platoon of prisoners was starting

along the road, one of the smugglers broke free and
fled into the woods. Noel yelled to the others to go
ahead without him.
I chased him for half an hour, Noel admitted
sheepishly, before I cornered him.
At Pine Tree, the Mounties wakened the justice
officer, who, ill or not, then had to improvise
arrangements to keep the prisoners in his house. By
the time this was worked out, and Noel showed up
with the man he had recaptured, the hour before
dawn had struck. Sergeant DeLisle remained to
radio Central station. Graham and Finnie undertook
the trip back to the cabin, in order to arrest the
woman leader. They found the cabin empty. Noel
was alarmed for Vickis safety. He and Finnie
fanned out through the wooded area, searching. On
coming to the clearing, they discovered fresh
footprints in the snow and two planes where only the
Cub had stood before.
A few minutes later the Mounties caught sight of
Vicki and Bill Avery.
Now, Miss Barr, well take your testimony.
It took Vicki a long time to tell all she had seen
and heard, and all that had happened to Ruth Hall
and herself at the smugglers hands. Again and again
the amazed Mountie officers interrupted her with
questions. Bill looked positively horrified but kept
226

still. When she described the Indian maiden

standing ghostlike at the crest of the waterfall, the
entire room fell silent.
You were up there at the falls, unarmed, with
that woman, Noel Graham exclaimed, and I was
in the forest where I couldnt see you!
Not your fault, Constable, said Sergeant Breau.
He had Vicki complete her story. And now, Mr.
Avery? Your account, if you please, of how you
happened to arrive at the crucial time?
Bill looked embarrassed. He said that when Vicki
did not return to Fairview by the promised date, he
became concerned. He telegraphed the mines, only
to receive a reply from the nurse which disturbed
and baffled him. So Bill started out by plane to the
nickel mines yesterday, reaching the mines late in
the day. There Ruth told him the horrifying story of
what had happened to Vicki and her, and the still
more horrifying fact that Vicki had returned to the
cabin, with a Mountie posted as lone patrol.
I wanted to turn right around and fly to the
cabin.
But the Margreaves had persuaded Bill there
would not be much point in his starting to search for
Vicki while it was dark. He stayed and rested during
most of the night, then took off before dawn. The
DC-3 having lights and radio, he could do this.
There were a few faint streaks of light when I took
227

off, and Id already flown that course yesterday.

Still, I had to hunt for the cabin. By the time I was
over where the cabin should be, it was dawn and I
spotted Vicki and my own Cub and could see
enough to make a landing.
Bill hurried over the rest of the story, as if almost
ashamed of his efforts in helping to capture the
woman. Vickis the one who deserves the credit.
The sergeants smiled. Sergeant Howard said, All
of you deserve credit. Your timing was perfect, Mr.
Avery. Constable Graham, we shall send in a written
commendation of your services and hope that you
will wear a stripe on your sleeve very soon.
Thank you, Sergeant, Noel said with a broad
smile.
As for you, Vicki Barr, we congratulate you.
Breaking up this gang can be largely attributed to
this young womans ingenuity and courage. It is the
largest fur-thieving and fur-smuggling ring which
we have ever encountered.
Sergeant Howard added that the Mounted Police
would assign a man to special duty in that area, in
case any smugglers should arrive late with more
loot. The names in Jodys notebook would help the
police to round up any who so far had failed to
appear. Thus all the gang would soon be arrested
and in custody, including the thieves who had
robbed the mink farm.
228

By the way, Miss Barr, said Sergeant Breau,

Don and Jake had in their possessionuntil a short
time agothe mink pelts from that ranch. A reward
is offered for it, you know. It seems to me that you
three young people deserve to share in the reward.
Bill Avery shook his head. Noel Graham
muttered that a promotion was all the reward he
could want. Vicki thought of the Mounties
traditional motto: Uphold the Right. As for herself,
she was too astonished to say anything beyond
good-by to the two sergeants. She saw Don and Jake
led awayJake was not grinning nowas she
followed Noel and Bill out of the Sergeants office.
All that remained was for Noel Graham, with his
superior officers permission, to commandeer a jeep
for Vicki and Bill, and drive them to the road where
the two planes waited.
There Vicki said good-by to the young man with
whom she had shared danger, and who had been so
concerned for her safety.
Perhaps well meet again some day, Noel, she
said, taking his outstretched hand.
Come back to Canada again, come often. You
should see our Western plains and the glaciers of the
Rockies and the old French farm lands. Youve seen
only one corner of Canada, Vicki.
Id like to return. This beautiful northland was
Americas friendly neighbor, too. Its not far, is it?
229

Just over the border. Well say au revoir.

Noel smiled, and shook hands with Bill.
Thanks for keeping Vicki alive, Bill said
gruffly.
You had a hand in that yourself, Bill.
And so they took off, Vicki first in the Cub, Bill
in the DC-3, and the Mountie waving them happy
landings from the road. As they rose into the air,
Vicki looked down and tilted her wings to Noel. He
did not wear a red coat, and she heard no band
playing Maple Leaf Forever. But Mountie Noel
Graham was one of the bravest men she had ever
known, and her adventure in magnificent Canada
was something she would remember always.

230