While there was time I hurried down the knoll and flew to Alec.  I made a sign to him to take up his rifle and buffalo-robe, with a few other articles, left on the ground, and led the way through the wood.  Here we might remain concealed until the savages had gone away, and then try to get back to the fort.  I had no great hopes of success, still, it was the only thing to be done.