Three days ago, through an accident, I drifted, in an oarless boat, out from the river-mouth at Fort Dearborn to the open lake.

None knew of my predicament.

A storm blew me helpless to the southward, and after hours of exposure to danger, and great mental anguish, I was driven ashore amid the desolation of this sand.

This comrade of yours found me scarce alive, ministered to my sore need, protected me through the hours of the night, stood but now between me and your ribaldry, counting his life but little beside the reputation of a woman.

He may not wear the latest Paris fashions, Monsieur, but he has proved himself a man." "I meant not all I said, Toinette," he hastened to explain.