Afterwards he became quieter, and, indeed, lived for years, walking about and asking all whom he met if they could lead him to Marie.

But enough of him--poor man, poor man! The tale which got about was that Pereira had murdered Marie out of jealousy, and been shot by her father.

But there were so many tragic histories in those days of war and massacre that this particular one was soon quite forgotten, especially as those concerned in it for one reason and another did not talk overmuch of its details.

Nor did I talk of it, since no vengeance could mend my broken heart.
They brought me a letter that had been found on Marie's breast, stained with her blood.
Here it is: "MY HUSBAND, "Thrice have you saved my life, and now it is my turn to save yours, for there is no other path.

It may be that they will kill you afterwards, but if so, I shall be glad to have died first in order that I may be ready to greet you in the land beyond.
"I drugged you, Allan, then I cut off my hair and dressed myself in your clothes.