Francois _might_ come up." "If he should, how is he to know where we are gone ?" "True," answered Basil, reflecting a moment.

"Oh!" he continued, "give me your paper and pencil.

You tie Jeanette while I write." Lucien handed him a small slip of paper with a pencil; and then proceeded to tie the mule securely to one of the branches.
Basil took the paper and wrote:-- "_Francois, we are gone upon your trail.

Stay by Jeanette_." He fastened the paper conspicuously to the trunk of a tree; and then, seizing his rifle and leaping into the saddle, called upon Lucien to follow him.
Lucien mounted, and rode after, while the dog Marengo trotted in the rear..