"What would become of the company, if it were to lose its two officers and its two scouts at a blow! No, Edwards, you will command during my absence, and I think you will soon have more lively times here, for, if it be true that Montcalm will himself command the troops coming against us, it will be a different business altogether from the last.

And now, leave me alone for an hour.
I have some letters to write before I start.

They will be for you to send off, in case we don't come back again.
"Don't look serious, I have no intention of falling into the hands of Montcalm's savages.

Still, there is no doubt the expedition is a risky one, and it is just as well to be prepared." Just as the sun was setting, Nat came into the officer's hut.
"Everything is ready, captain," he said.

"I hope you have made a good dinner, for it's the last hot meal you will eat, till you get back.