the West.

As for Durant, he went from her presence muttering curses and threatening
vengeance, among which was distinguished by a slave, grated out between his
clenched teeth, "I'll make her repent this day's work in 'sack-cloth and
ashes!' aye, if all h--ll oppose!"




CHAPTER III.

THE VILLAIN AND HIS VICTIM.


The reader has, doubtless, arrived at the conclusion that Durant was
planning the destruction of Ellen Walton when he so earnestly desired the
assistance of Miss Fleming; and it will now be perceived how false were his
statements in relation to the _character_ of the expected guest. Though
unseen himself, he had taken every precaution to make certain of the party
at the Fleming Hotel; and just at the close of day he had the satisfaction
of seeing his efforts crowned with success. General Walton, influenced by
the tales his daughter's foe had whispered to him in confidence, passed by
the more elegant houses, which, but for defaming reports, he would have
preferred making his abode during his short stay in the place, and took
lodgings at the "Fleming."

Eliza Fleming made the acquaintance of her young female guest, and every
fresh insight into Miss Walton's character made her regret the hard
necessity she was under of doing her an injury. She had a hard struggle in