I acknowledge, Mademoiselle, that I look forward to a serious clash of arms before we are rid of the redskins, in spite of their pledges; and shall therefore keep close beside you, hopeful that my arm may show you better service than my tongue before nightfall." Her eyes had grown grave as she listened; for I spoke with soberness, and there crept into them a look that thrilled me.

Before either could speak again, Ensign Ronan rode up beside me.
"Wayland," he questioned anxiously, "what is this I hear about a strange portent in the eastern sky last night?
Saw you anything terrifying there ?" "'T was no more serious than a cloud which chanced to assume the form of a monster, and its aspect was most terrifying until we understood the nature of its formation.

Then it became merely an odd memory to weave a tale about.

Mademoiselle here saw it, and remains in most excellent spirits nevertheless." He lifted his hat to her, and stared hard at De Croix, who barely nodded to his greeting.
"By Heavens!" he exclaimed, as if much relieved, "it seemed to me as if Nature had conspired with those red demons yonder to sap our courage, when first I heard the rumor.

I am so convinced that there is trouble afoot, that my nerves are all a-tingle at such mystery." "Are the savages gathering without ?" "Ay! they are in mass of hundreds, awaiting us at the foot of the mound, and have been since daybreak.