He did not like at present to go so far as to take the case entirely out of his brother-in-law's hands, but he had decided that it would be necessary himself to look after, and urge on, the proceedings which were being taken against Clarkson.
He determined, therefore, that the first time he could spare an hour or two from his profession, he would ride over alone to Beaver Creek, and see precisely the condition of the land, and what inroads had been made upon it by Clarkson and the Indians.

It was only a day or two later that he carried out his intention; and after a few early visits to patients, turned his horse's head along the road which, following the general direction of the river bank, led towards Beaver Creek.

He rode tolerably fast for two or three miles, and then began to slacken his pace, and look round him with greater interest.

He was still some distance from the creek itself, but the land lay on this side of it, and he was curious to know the condition of the neighbouring farms.

He had not been very long resident in Cacouna, and was but little acquainted with the country in this direction, except where, here and there, he had paid professional visits.
But at last he arrived at what he knew by description must be his wife's property, and his examination began in good earnest.