A Colonial Wooing
limp form upon the ground and, still supporting her head, said, imploringly, "Ruth, Ruth, you are in no danger now; do speak!"
The effects of the shock were slowly passing away, and before John's companions could reach him, by means of the clumsy ferry, Ruth had revived and murmured, but not so gently that John did not hear her, "I thank thee, John; do please let me return home."
Ruth attempted to rise as she spoke, but her strength had not returned with her consciousness, and she was utterly helpless.
"Let me carry thee home, Ruth," said John, very gently. And he was about to take her up in his arms as a mother would lift her little child, when the men, who had crossed the creek, came up and made a circle about them. All asked at once concerning her and were anxious to be of use, and the bewildering babel of many voices was evidently having an ill effect upon Ruth's tortured nerves. John was quick to see the annoyance their presence caused, and motioning to them to stand aside and keep silent, he lifted
46
