feared a trap. Then he caught the expressive eye of Me-en-gan at the
door. Evidently Virginia had friends.

"I was alone," he repeated, confidently.

"That is a lie. For though my Indians were deceived, two people were
observed by my clergyman to leave the Post immediately before I sent
out to your capture. One rounded the island in a canoe; the other took
the Woods Trail."

"Bully for the Church," replied Trent, imperturbably. "Better promote
him to your scouts."

"Who was that second person?"

"Do you think I will tell you?"

"I think I'll find means to make you tell me!" burst out the Factor.

Ned Trent was silent.

"If you'll tell me the name of that man I'll let you go free. I'll
give you a permit to trade in the country. It touches my
authority--my discipline. The affair becomes a precedent. It is
vital."

Ned Trent fixed his eyes on the bay and hummed a little air, half
turning his shoulder to the older man.

The latter's face blazed with suppressed fury. Twice his hand rested