Page 78 - A Hero of Ticonderoga

CHAPTER XVII

--HOME COMING

As the sloop swept past the massive battlements of Crown Point where they
guard the narrowing channel of the lake, Job said to his young comrade:

"We’re getting towards home."

"Yes, I’ve been thinking of home and mother and sis. Guess I needn’t be
afraid of ol’ Toombs any longer, but I don’t know as I could keep my hands

off’n him. I always meant to give him a thrashing when I could."

"Mebby you could, now, but he’s a cordy critter and a soople one; but mind
what I tell you, you never will."

Nathan’s answer was a short, incredulous laugh, as he helped Job make
ready for disembarkation. As they marched in straggling ranks toward Fort

Ticonderoga, Nathan was accosted by one of the young Newtons, who had
remained there during the northern expedition.

"Look a-here, Nate," he said, drawing him aside, "there’s some trouble to
your mother’s. She’s sent word for you to come right home. Old Toombs is

dead or run off to Canerdy, or something. I don’t know the rights on’t. But,
anyhow, she wants you bad."

Either the death or the absconding of his stepfather was too good news to
be true, and his first duty was to serve his mother. He and Job readily

obtained leave of absence, though it was scarcely needed, so lax was the
military discipline of the crudely organized forces. The two at once set
forth, and an hour’s paddling of the light birch canoe brought them to the

landing in the creek.

As they emerged from the shadow of the woods into the broad sunlight of
the clearing, their first glance sought the house standing in the midst of
green grass and springing grain. The scene was in such apparent peace and