join the company, and let me entreat you to evince less
despondency before the men. It is hard, I know, to
sustain an artificial character under such disheartening
circumstances; still, for example's sake, it must be
done."

"What I can I will do, Blessington," rejoined the youth,
as they both moved from the ramparts; "but the task is,
in truth, one to which I find myself wholly unequal. How
do I know that, even at this moment, my defenceless,
terrified, and innocent sister may not be invoking the
name and arm of her brother to save her from destruction."

"Trust in Providence, Charles. Even although our worst
apprehensions be realised, as I fervently trust they will
not, your sister may be spared. The Canadian could not
have been unfaithful, or we should have learnt something
of his treachery from the Indians. Another week will
confirm us in the truth or fallacy of our impressions.
Until then, let us arm our hearts with hope. Trust me,
we shall yet see the laughing eyes of Clara fill with
tears of affection, as I recount to her all her too
sensitive and too desponding brother has suffered for
her sake."

De Haldimar made no reply. He deeply felt the kind
intention of his captain, but was far from cherishing
the hope that had been recommended. He sighed heavily,
pressed the arm, on which he leaned, in gratitude for
the motive, and moved silently with his friend to join