told the tale, described his foe, and told how he knew that the man
recognized him, first taking him--or so he believed--for a spectre
from the tomb, afterwards filled with the most lively terror as he
realized that he was pursued by one who had such dire cause for
bitter vengeance.

"We have met twice!" Charles would say, between his shut teeth.
"Once I was at his mercy, and he showed none. The second time he
fled before me as a man flees from death and hell. The third time
we meet--and meet we shall--it will be that the Lord has delivered
him into my hand. I will strike, and spare not. It will be the hour
appointed of Heaven!"

With the lengthening days and the approach of spring the life of
the Rangers became less full of hardship, though not less full of
adventure. Snowshoes and skates were laid aside, and the men
started to construct boats and canoes in which they soon began to
skim the surface of the lake; scouting here, there, and all over,
and bringing back news of the enemy's movements and strength even
when no capture of prisoners rewarded their efforts.

Rogers had taken a great liking to John Stark and his followers. He
dubbed Stark his lieutenant, and Fritz and Stark were inseparable
companions by this time. Charles attached himself to no person in
particular, but was the friend of all; pitied and respected for his
misfortunes, allowed to come and go much as he would; regarded
rather as one set aside by Heaven for an instrument of vengeance;
standing alone, as it were, not quite like any of his comrades; a
dreamy, solitary creature, seldom talking much, often passing the
whole day in silent brooding; yet when there was fighting to be