that was partially enclosed by one of those close-laid, high, pole
fences which the settlers usually constructed round their barns to
protect their flocks against the depredations of wild beasts. Within
this strong enclosure, the owner's cattle, consisting of a pair of
oxen, cow, and two or three young creatures of the same species, were
now quietly chewing their cuds, with those occasional wheezing grunts,
which with them seem so indicative of animal enjoyment; while in one
corner stood the horse of which Woodburn was in quest--a little model
of a creature, of a lively, attent appearance, as now particularly
manifested by a low, earnest, recognizing whinny, and by instantly
starting off, in a sort of half trot towards the bars of the
enclosure, as her master came up on the other side.

"Yes, yes, Lightfoot, you shall go now, and as fast as you desire,
this time," responded the latter, throwing himself over the bars, and
patting the animal on the neck, as he passed on to the barn for his
saddle and bridle.

To equip his willing steed, examine the trusty pistols, which, like
his foe, he carried about his person, let down, pass through, and
replace the bars, occupied him but a moment, and he was about
springing into his saddle, when he was hailed from the house.

"Halloo, there, Woodburn, is that you?" exclaimed a cheerly voice, as
a stout-built, crank, honest-looking young man, without hat or coat,
came out of the door, and with a free and careless air made his way
towards the other; "but what is your hurry? Nothing unpleasant has
befallen you in your affair over yonder that makes you feel like being
off in this sly and hasty manner, has there?"