I happen to know more about Beaucaire's private affairs than you do.

He leaves one daughter only.

I have never met the young lady, but I understand from excellent authority that she possesses independent means through the death some years ago of her mother.

I shall therefore not worry about her loss--and, indeed, she need meet with none, for if she only prove equal to all I have heard I may yet be induced to make her a proposition." "A proposition ?" "To remain on the plantation as its mistress--plainly an offer of marriage, if you please.

Not such a bad idea, is it ?" I stood speechless, held motionless only by the pressing muzzle of his pistol, the cold-blooded villainy of the man striking me dumb.