avoided La Tour's track; and the latter, who felt already sure of his
prey, had at last the vexation to discover him, at a safe distance, and
when the wind and tide rendered pursuit impossible. A thick fog, which
soon began to rise, entirely separated them; and approaching night
rendered it expedient to anchor, until the return of day. A report of M.
d'Aulney's menaced attack on the fort had already reached La Tour,
though it was too confused to convey much information, or relieve his
extreme anxiety. But he endured the suspense far better than his
lieutenant, who made no attempt to conceal his vexation at the necessary
delay. After pacing the deck for some time in silence, he suddenly
exclaimed to La Tour,

"It is tedious beyond measure to lie here, becalmed almost within sight
of the fort! and then so little reliance can be placed on the flying
reports which we have heard! I wish, as nothing can, at any rate, be
done to-night, you would allow me to push off in a boat by myself and
reconnoitre with my own eyes."

"And leave me to meet the enemy without you in the morning;--is that
your intention?" asked La Tour, pettishly.

"You do not ask that question seriously, I presume?" said De Valette.

"Why, not exactly, Eustace," he answered; "though I confess I think it
rather a strange request to make just at this time."

"Why so?" asked De Valette; "I would only borrow a few hours from
repose, and my plan may be accomplished with ease;--nor shall you have
reason to complain, that I am tardy at the call of duty."