human
I’m going to find Princess, Father, he said in a tone that was not to be disputed.
gpt
I _must_—we can’t leave her in the hands of that—that scoundrel. I’m all right now, I can ride Kit——
human
But Kit is not a riding-horse, Joe; you could never overtake them. By this time those Indians are miles away.
gpt
Father —Joe leaned forward and spoke low in his father’s ear—
human
This is worse than I feared. We must go after her. We must get her out of his hands. I don’t see how I can go——
gpt
You _can’t_, Father! You can’t be spared. Mother and the children need you here. But I can go—I’m all right now—I _must_ go—I _must_ find her!
human
The best thing we can do, he broke in,
gpt
This has proved that you dare not, Father. You must stay here. It is my place to go.
human
But, Joe boy, do you realize the danger? Do you remember how far it is—how desolate and barren—what a lone, wearisome, lonesome trail?
gpt
I remember, he said.
human
But it can’t be helped. It’s _got_ to be done—and I’m going to do it. I must take food and water. Get it for me, won’t you, Father, while I go get Kit?