It is clear enough--I can write yet." As Lucien said this, he took out his note-book, and wrote:-- "_Francois, come back on your own trail.

You will find us upon it.

If you cannot follow it, let Marengo guide you_." He tore out the leaf, handing it to Basil, who fastened it securely to the shirt.
Marengo was again set loose, and took to the trail, while both mounted hastily and followed him.
Fortunately the night did not turn out so dark as they had anticipated; and they could see the white covering with sufficient distinctness to enable them to follow it, even at a gallop.

And thus they rode for nearly another hour--Basil still blazing their trail as they swept past the timber islets.
All at once, as they rounded a thick grove, a bright object glistened before their eyes.

It was a blazing fire under the shadow of some tall trees! Marengo made straight for it.