his willing mind. At length, however, a quickened pace, a firmer
tread, and a prouder bearing, showed that a different and less
peaceful train of thought was springing up within.

"So this evil genius of mine, it seems," he muttered, "who forever
appears in my path to snatch from me every prize I set my heart on, is
secretly an officer in the British service, commissioned, probably, to
head a regiment of tories, whom he is now by his false statements and
delusive promises, attempting to gather from the weak and wavering of
our overawed people. This must be instantly made known. Heavens! what
effrontery!--to be playing the spy under the garb of pretended
neutrality, and seducing away the deluded men under our very noses, to
lead them back to fall with fire and sword on their kindred and
neighbors! And I am to be the particular object of his vengeance, I
presume, from the significant hint she gave me to avoid him. Avoid
him! He shall be spared much trouble to find me if that is what he
wants. He is now the country's foe, and lawful game with me. I would
that I could meet him tonight--yes, this night; and if I thought I
could overtake him--stay, why can't this be done?--only three miles
start, probably, and on a moderate trot; while my horse is a fleet
one, and--and--we will try it."

By this time he had reached a log house, and barn of the same
materials, which formed a small opening on the left side of the road,
and which was the residence of a recently-married and here settled
friend, in whose care he had left his horse before proceeding, as on
the lady's account he did, through the adjoining wood and Haviland's
broad fields beyond, to the clandestine interview with her that we
have described. And now turning in towards this rude establishment, he
hastily proceeded, without calling at the house, directly to the barn,