"A pleasant memory truly," answered Stark gallantly, "and one so
new to a Ranger that he will never be like to forget it;" and as
they pursued their way towards the lake, he held the youth and the
girl spellbound and breathless by tales of the strange life of
adventure which they led, and by detailing some of their
hairbreadth escapes from the hands of Indians and Frenchmen as they
scoured the forest, lay in ambush, and skulked beneath the very
ramparts of the enemy's fortifications, hearing the talk of the
sentries overhead.

"Nay, but you are brave men in sooth; you deserve success. The
fortunes of war must surely be yours at last," cried Corinne, with
covert enthusiasm.

"Ah! here is the lake, and here is our boat. Nay, come not further.
I fear lest hurt should come to you. I thank you again with all my
heart. Perhaps the day will come when we shall see each other
again. I would fain believe that I shall meet again with Rogers'
bold, chivalrous Rangers."

"It may be--it may be," answered Stark, with a smile. "Farewell,
sweet Mistress Corinne; may you come safely through all perils by
land and water. Your brave spirit will carry you well through
life's troubled sea, I think."

She smiled, and stepped into the boat. Then suddenly turning and
waving her hand, she said:

"I will tell you one thing which my uncle has said. Whether he will