gladly volunteer for the service.

"If Julian will go with me, I will gladly go," said Humphrey.

"I will go, with all my heart," answered Julian at once; "and we
will seek and strive to do the pleasure of those who send us."

Ashley's face beamed upon the pair. He knew by this time that no
better messenger than Julian Dautray could be found. He had a gift
of eloquence and a singularly attractive personality. His nature was
gentle and refined--curiously so considering his upbringing--and he
had a largeness of heart and a gift of sympathy which was seldom to
be met with amongst the more rugged sons of the north.

He had made himself something of a power already in the circle into
which he had been thrown; and when it was known amongst Ashley's
friends and acquaintance that his wife's brother, together with
Julian Dautray, would go to England with their representations to
friends and to those in authority, a liberal response was made as
to their outfit and introductions, and the young men were surprised
to find themselves suddenly raised to a place of such importance
and distinction.

It was an exciting time for Susanna and for all in the house. John
Stark came to and fro, bringing news that he had found fresh
volunteers to join the band of Rangers, who were already making
preparations for departure upon their perilous life of adventure.

Some of the older citizens looked doubtful, and spoke of the
rigours of the winter; but John laughed, and Charles smiled his