Redpath, or, The Western trail
page: (TitlePage) [View Page (TitlePage) ]REDPATH iv mN nst BY DR. J. H. ROBINSON. NEW YORK: PUBLISHED BY SAMUEL FRENCII, 121~ NASSAU STREET. I of, 'Aronflor page: [View Page ] ,. "t Y{'4n I 45 4, ft z . Y -f ~ ' 4 A"' 7 of'( 4, '{4 ,. 4' , , '4'x y.F. _ " , ",4 r r ' +~ /^ j f4 '4e{E)lr Cr",t- Y '°fr+ '44 1~ CHAPTER Is- IN WHICH THE HERO MAKES RIs ROW 'O THE ,READER. - IT was night on the western prairies, and the stars were glowing silvery ndsbft in the azure arch. The gauzy spray of clouds sailing at in-" tervals' across the quiet' heavens, 'obscured not the mild lustre oftlife' 'moon, nor east a shadow upon the Wilderness: A youth of slender figure,lceiI in garb befit- ting the hunter and bekwoodsrrian, was 'stand= ing with meditative lirw upon a' gentle emi- nence, leaning graeefdltiy upon his 'rifle,*irich was of approved- make atid studied finish. his features, though not strongly masculine' In mould; were not unomely, tier Without the prestige of thought. His maturity of expres- sion was notably in contrastwith his otherwise youthful ,'personnel. is 'eyes were somewhat dreamy impressirng the'liysiognomist with the idea that his'imagination dweltIn a world vague and impractical; far removed from the scenes of. this but too real sphere. 'delowhim, at-the 0 r eof thehdill, the waters of Kansas River weretflowing'; while' Athis left the :distant peaks of the Rocky Mountains were visible, toweringlin their sterk,, unehunging g*andetur like everlis tiihgguardians of the-north --ni ariny 'of' eteirnal ocupatie, 'ltech the might of finite malt "e"n'sheveidongaer; 'itori his right, prairiesutifolded their sceeery'like an endless panorama, diversiflec y3'strips of tifn- her, 'swalhps" of grass ad shiabdry. 'At CA short distance froin theyouth, this smoke of a blazing fire arose in a misty ciun, forming numberless fantastic wreatlr. atid,'phistom shapes. A solitary re ' was sti-et he'd'besid the burning fagots, sleeping' as'6ouudl, appat ently, as if domiciled beneath a helteiing roof, and couched upon thedoftest b dI he'f Uth approached the spot; at the' s'iiai c' his foot- steps the man sprang to his fet, casting 'jiibk;k sharp glances around him. Ii moment his gaze was fastened iunon thu~intite&, :and he relaxed his guarded ' atchiineis ith' his raven eyes he scanined'the :.bject that had ex- cited liis attention; with strbnge auditionn df contenipt' than cutiositf, orialarm. The youen advanced, 'did beggingap.rdon forthe h trdusien, expressed a hope tat he had hot disetrbed his dreams, 'or awakened his fears.' The person to 'whit' t atse words wete ad- dressedn, smiled, and tldng hiback pr, toward the' youth, replied rt sa rastic ly, tiat he''seldom took the 'tireoh1'to 'dteam'; sai forfe r en Brionwas Astrabger toit a diia certainty seen notbhniu to excite such'an emo- tion for a long time. t tiitted'he 0hadtoo long been a sojourner Ina the *eat i'ioetrrife4 M trifief ie then sdriked 'i sik hrtigg tis'eholders, and snile i &. hefodi iui dodbtless understood"the ei ~ ' meate liig, bat without appearing jtio e i added ft t i a ,. ~1 " " " +W r t'. n.r..;. ry.=atr , ! r r { S5, ' _'r,, r. }l rf. r L ;" r r .r tr 'r 1 ' V t 41, IY tiS'uV ,. x:,, : r" :' f' . , ? ,y } .« i S . i C l 4 !+. t Fir i 4 ' , R i" page: 8-9[View Page 8-9] REIAH. 8 REDPATH. ' that if his company would not be considered particularly disagreeable, he would venture to take- a seat by the fire, which seemed to him very cheerful and inviting. The individual who had styled himself Ben Brion, replied that he was at liberty to please himself in that respect, though he fancied that a stuffed chair, or a feather bed, would agree bet- ter with his constitution than any accommoda- tion he could offer. The youth answered to the effect that he was not fastidious ; that a blazing fire would suffice for a night so serene and tran- quil. He seated him elf,;pl eadtii 'ifle i the; ground beside hire, d n ead of tip g his attention to Bridof,'e ile his study of the heavens with an abstracted air. At first, Brion scarcely deigned to notice the stripling ; but presently condescended to honor him with furtive glances, which, judging by the expression of his features, did not ineease -his esteem for his visitor. He obviously considered him too poor in experience to be entitled to an*y considerable share of a'tteition frn one who had grown ripe in adventure, and won his knowledge of ;he western wilds through mugh l1ejsiuidy trapperpd mountaineeris prone to pride bimlsf net ,little on his skill and powers ofeA ranegd to regad ,the 3tnsic- cessful,,teinfective end ginitiate rin his wan- draig,peiloe,:life, t, otht r feelings than xesjtect pr ,a#atioi. 2Brigq might well .draw, erparisgns.,n"lpeasure .his physical manhood the youti, ipaspuch as his person was not .g p in gscu e yelopinent or athletic gracp.- n ezeaak appearance the two were quitp at grp%, resent gcarcely an observ- gbi fe t p ipigarity. The difference to a phird psty woulha ve been-very marked. A t that porig 1ierp Was much rivalry exist- ag b etwceh te;piousorganized fur comparties, which often leld to ths mtost la peptable results. The parties kept a jeplggs gatch of each other,, xeegrig s lthe uurntanly arts of low ,cn- :to ;. sle4, baf e and ijre a rival ept r- Rrise. T re ,yreqf bterest were in eomgtinupl operptoniptiang;pot unfregentl yin bl°kody rgneoatres and ,etyi$1 reprisals. ;Being jp"the p ploy of t e 4erican ,r Con pany,. Ba jo, 1t uagnatprgly, ,bean tofel spieous of the gut n gippry etheer .he wq not in tge 9n py p thg pdye R- copfederacy--a ppy g bip ~hoyernents, perchce. This conjecture was not alegagpd tp-soften his prejudices, as may be imagined,-because opposition was then raging with great bitterness, aggravated by mu- tual acts of hostility. It was a very important season for those who were ambitious, to profit by the hunter's craft. It was early in May, and the trapping campaign was about to open. The rival associations were hurrying to the rivers and lakes where game, abounded, each nervously anxious to outstrip the other, and obtain all the advantages of a choice of ground ; and with that object in view took every conceivable means to epnceal their oap ovements, and deceive and ' rard the 'po ite' t rest. Brie gy + grt Leavenworth to complete some necessary transaction relating to the American Fur Company, was then proceed- ing to join the 'band, which had started several days in advance. Being made acquainted with these particulars, the reader will be able to form a toldrahly correct idea of the trapper's position, and the-train of thoughts the appearance of the youth, under such circumstances, would be like- ly to awaken. We 'must do him the justice to remark that he was not innately inclined to be discouute9us r .suspicious ; but lng experience in the ways ad ,elps of aptgopistic parties, had rendered ig Jeeply awake to strategy an4 covert deaLeg.a esrget once arpuead, is ap) to .give go petty o ecsions and grow stronger ;; and possibly it was thus witi the trapper. He eapdig,the stripling more in detail; bat de- spite his ,unfreinly, doglis; was forced to ac- knolpdige to lis eonscience,4hit he co4 sec nothing that savored of evil in iscomely face. 1e had serious t©ugngts of det inng hipn, ho- ever, with or wit out his opsent, and by adrpit cress questQi4g, or positive menaee,a draw forth his purpose. Bute next pnomnent 1e was ready to blush for planing such aviolationof wild wood ipe" vitality. He simply egngluled to. watch his visitor, a4 if #e shared the: comforts of thefire durig the ,gh(which he seemed disposed to do), he would take such teps to fathom his ob- ject as 14a idgent migI t ggsst. tfr phis ipteuioa, p stretched;hiassif po is blanket, For u short titp he .ept his face $trned toward theg ~i4J~ goi hi sight 597yns'eady; the srangevr;bee e a ds4r e h9 4ire,the tees, the shadows in the lclgroigd, theskies and ths stare,, f 4,ps4.oh1naa jnto shynter, Upon yaki*gjp 1the monig, hi: rt un' pulse:was to of or the youth; ,but he was not there. ,Ngar spt where the tr pper had slept was a dead rtlesndtkc Which he must hWve killed before defat'ting. He ha- left a marktof good wif,Brlon eostasot-but coiifess. The serpent mfght hare *bended hEi fatally While he slept, had'not the fridiidty offiees of the youngster prevented such a catastr phe. His- simple morning mneal despatiched, he caught his Norse (whtch had been side4idiet and- allowed to feed upon he ridly-grown grass: at the' dlstaice of a- htitdrtdyatds from, his-bitonac) indresumed' his way in aesterd direction toward'the' Platte or Nebraska' Riv'en. Three days passed'without brirfgng any rctable' adventure to the sturdy ilollutitiner. Oft the- afternobn of the fourth he siw a 'tavelled ape preaching, mounted upon tttge sor'tel horse, the proportions and movements of which were not calculated to inipress: the osrier *ith a very high opinion of his qualities. *The a iimai" was of ample size, but' pYesented various 'bony' outlines and angles, seeniingly indicative of scarcity of forage, or constitutional raui s. The= man riding thid unprepossessing beast, is worthy a' passing descriptiki. His garb was strikinglyffntastie, anid would have appeared to prevailing taste very incon- gruous, being made up of an odd'mni*ture Of' savage and civilized app'arel'' e' was floww stature, .bit of singularly rnastulitia develop- ment, broad shoulders add" rprdiilnt chest. Hisaface had a good-humored epj'ession de- spite the swamis of beard that- covered it, and the elk-skin cap' draw -low upon his bto. There was the prestige of fun isthis snhiilIfet; which had- a constant tWinkle. His:ride 'as slung across his bask'by-a!leathier stra Whent within 'fifty rods of n6n Btio; e'raied n l bd War-whoop andllutisis:eS i tl'glahp,:per; farming a serietof lidian'tiedttltis with hidi- cro-s''effect.' Heiade lteo dr irleS rieund theu monntaineer-at",a'falbte kginigztt the frthe&' sidof the animal and- pdag {notr itbade ab if keenwoierik n ltrioabit-iginastyle, shouting and yelling. -To.~hunter his *hiei;tfiin eii tod and rested hls"rifae ontlie pothiiel 'fhis sa l t# re divehimt eiththieifreatrtilldet rat f naenr, and the patieswIthnp rr dfOrlitysly lhned,' and extefidd 7afh ifad fi hdio Manye eet tre prairies-of tieYWest ' Whatitr' feeling'of giA tist=Biot wa'dla eWitt6 1arA ois ,g place-to genillty lethe dee d It'arme tag g .acquaintance was not connected wid' any organ- ized fur company, but prfdd hims lt ir belong- ing to that roving; indeopendentdlia,5Triown as .free trappers, whose homes- weretherountains arid' prairies, and' whose pleasure 4d the ex- citenleut of dan br. Buckeye--such was the roer's'nane-vat in good spirits, aia enlfeied tle wa 'by.i s witti- claris' and' strange tales. A iitalfh they en- camped together guite amrdalily, liion taking considerable pains tot Onlist u'keye in his brigade of hunters ; but hon iidated "that he preferr'ed liberty to the gold anii sthority of a' partisan leader. Another serene evening folldwe' Un4le to sleep, 'ri6if left hish'erd conch ' ; tepi ate the starty beautiet'of the night, -and muse upon :the arduous duties upon whi h "o wi enter g The placid skies the melft Iiht, the murmur of glistening waters, add'esse h nt conscious- nesS''like pleasant voices. Whiie yielding to the soothing influences atbund him, and gazing dreamily at the varied aspects, Brfoin tatcled he heard a slight nhov1eirent in a group of young poplars at his right. l)isciplineid in a ciol of severest watchfulness, he w'ad alien to eund inaudible to unpractised ears. ie' adv'adee cautiously toward the spot wherce the noise proceeded He 'imagined, as he pladted ,the branches of the trees, and ttpjO'd into the thicket, he caught a vaghil glancof an-object ini rapid motion' beyond the-ishes, ee) y in the shadow.' Xt might have been a human #g- are; or itrigiit ha e bediB udt ie reflection o a cloud'thrown triasieiitly upoitlm op ei space With his ride ready fbr instant ,riioun oved forWard. ;Oil the m '1ini fthe'wrod hepause atd exariinedifthe locality. Ie *ddzah su - prised at fidinr an Indian 'ahatcht stieing int a tree Hearhiil H rfeit forth;"the bhandi was yet wattfifroiii the Bit* its' ' era A. minute had not elsedao ntbij-e it had' 1qeiled ntfd intir fldigr iun #i tt' i a a 2 r . page: 10-11[View Page 10-11] 10 1EDI discovery. He returned to his camp fire thought- ful. Buckeye was 'sleeping, and "Flash," his horse, was standing . close by him, with ears 'erect and vigilant. Trained, like his master, to, a life of perm, like him he had learned watchful- ness. Some sound had reached him to excite his fears or curiosity, and put him on the alert. "Faithful creature !" mused Brion. "Expe, rience has quickened his . senses, and made him littlerinferior to reasoning beings." The partisan (the leaders of those enterprises werefhus call) awaked the trapper and related what had pe rad.: Buckeye stirred the fire, took a bite of tobacco, rubbed his forehead, and gave signs of uneasiness. "There's a great difference in circumstances," quoth he, sagely. " Some things are easy to explain, and ,omue isn't." When he,had expressed thissentimnent, he ained a jet of dark colored extract at a blazing brang., "lash,' hearing his master's -well- known, voice, came up and placed his nose on his shoulder, as.if soliciting companionship., "The cretur knows me, stranger, and is rest-:. less, wh'en I'm a good way off. We couldn't part, Flash and I couldn't. 'Twould be a sorry day for both of us if he should change owners. But I hope that'll never be. 'Twould break his heart'to have a redskin back -him. But that's nothing to 'do with the subject; and as I said afogo, in different ,wgtrds, some matters are, mighty mysterious, and hard to get at under-- standingly.; There's strange characters in this wild kentry, and one don't allers know: what's arter him. The lateral reptiles of the sile have a heap of epunin', and it's, never safe to ,het both eyes at night.. We're tracked; that's evi- dent enough; but by whom, is another question. There's .danger st our backs, but which of us two is spoe ffr, I can't say.. I'll tell yob more about it artery we've passed fort-Laramie ; that is, if we both should be alive then."; "It wold- be wellto ;move off, leaving our, fire burning, I suppose," returned Brio. "It is opr'dutyto be reasonably cautious and careft of life. ,There's a scriptural injunction -laid, upon-us togb ,ise as serpents." "If a paron had said that it couldn't have beenmore 'tothe'pint. I knw of a very quiet campin' grou a few miles farther on,,whereI posed 'au night somonths, agowhen: the, heathen eptileshad somehow got wind of-my Thmovements m n tihe The pai l mounted their horses, and the fre PATE. where they had anticipated. passing an undis- turbed night, was soon fare behind. The 'spot referred to by Buckeye proved a fitting -place for their purpose, being sheltered by large rocks and trees, and hemmed in by a crescent-shaped' bend in the river. Brion felt at home. The wide sky arching over him in ,unveiled beauty, with its starry hosts ; the spreading prairies, the, distant moun- tains, the running waters and fluttering leaves, were things that had voices, and addressed him with pleasant language. The- mountaineer was entirely satisfied with his mode of life. . He felt no desire to be other than he was. There was a, charm (for him) .in the atmosphere of the wil-' derness ; while the certainty .of danger added new zest, making him moreis love with his call- ing. Like Buckeye, he had been a free trapper, but the strong inducement held out to him by the American Fur Company had (after consid- erable hesitation and rather against his inde- pendent predilections) caused him to accept the post of " partisan," or leader of the enterprise. 'He knew it was a trying and difficult position,, but trusted that he should be able by his experi- encejn trapping and hunting to give satisfaction to all concerned. When he resumed his way on the ensuing morning, the ;glowing stories,.of Buckeye, con- cerning the pleasures, and excitement of a free trapper's existence, made him half regret his engagement. Before noon he overtook the band, consisting of about .seventy-five men, amply provided with pack horses and mules._ "I want no sich creturs as them," said Buck- eye ppinting to the latter-with.a contemptuous expression. -"-And as-for baggage, a real trap-- per needs nothin' but his gun, huntin' knife and traps. Them men are slaves to their mules and packs., :No, no! !Icouldnft think of ,aich a'life,! -Give me =Flash andthis trusty -weapon, and the sky for -my roof,;and the -prairie for my floo*, with nobody:to dictate what I shall or sha'n't. do, and I ask no more." With this pithyopitonte;of his ,sentiments, Buckeye. shputed "Hi I hi !" performed some difficult {ffats':of hosneanshp,ithen .abating somewhat of his eques iafttry,-jked the.slow., paced brigade unmereifully; contrasting their encumbered arch withkbisrown autrammellels unburdened movemaentsa In rion's estimation, there ras toomuch truth in such badinage to e it altogether agreeable to:.the moderately moving party. Flash, in returnreeeived criti.- BEDPATH. cisms net complimentary to himself or his mas- ter ; but which were borne by the latter with perfect equanimity., We cannot here make the reader acquainted with the various individuals of which the band was composed. There were French and half- breeds,: a few of Mexican origin, the greater number being Americans from frontier towns. There was Also a Texan adventurer, a Kentuck ian, aVirginian, and a young fellow from Mas- sachusetts. Many were veteran trappers, while some were fresh on the prairies, unpractised: in the arts and expedients of hunter life. . Thus far on their march all had gone well. The In- dians had not molested them, and grass being abundant, the horses and mules were, in good condition. The young and unschooled in the kind of existence opening before them, feared they should reach the distant theatre of opera- tions without incident 'or excitement, or adven- tures worth relating when they should again reach home ; but the wiser heads shrugged their- shoulders, intimating very plainly that danger might come before they were ready for it. They passed Fort Laramie with nothing to break the monotony of their march. ' Theyjubi- lant spirits of the younger men began to flag ; continued travel had already taken- the first starch of greennesi.out of them. Seeing how smoothly things were proceeding, they grew less. vigilant, ridiculed the precautions of Brion, wishing - for an opportunity to "show the red- skins what they could do," boasting in no mea- sured terms of their ability to teach them civili- ty. buckeye, who continued 'with the band, heard all this bravado in silence, feeling more inclined to feed their vanity than to rebuke their folly. * One morning, one of those who had been loudest in his threats, and had sneered most at the nightly cautions of Brien, was missed from camp.' Believing that he would soon return, no uneasiness- was .felt on his, account ; lut not making-his appearance, several 'of his friends started to look for hint -After A:short search, his lifeless }body was found 'a few.rods from the, encampment. It had n6' Wound--no sign of mortal injury visible to casual 'eyes; yet the- animating spirit had 'gbnei The thoughtless braggarts at - first were shocked, supposing their5 comrade had met his ilvath'by violence, but dit. covering no external' hut, they' changed their minds, -ahd- conludedhe had died a 'natural death. ii "What do- you' call a natural death ?" asked Buckeye. A young Missourian, by the ,name of Head- ley, replied that he supposed apoplexy might be thus called. "If it's apoplexy,'then apoplexy's a eatchin' disease, and more'n one of yell be down' with it afore you reach the trapping' grounds," said Buckeye, mysteriously. " You are not talking to boys, but 'to men !" retorted therMissoprian, loftily. "1m lad you've"'told me, for I shouldn't have inistrftsted it," was 'the instant rejoinder. "It's 'plain enough to a one i hin senses that this rnan'died of a disease of the heart or brain. What' else could kill him? I -see'no wounds nor brisses;'or any signs of a struggle ; and you'll find it hard to crowd your inysteri- ous nonsense down' our throats in the wa' you think." " Sinee you're so wise, it aint worth while to tell ye anythin' more, because it might. hurt ye. I've knowed folks to be injured by knowing' too much. An acquaintance of mind was 'bliged to take to his bed jest on account of his general information," answered Buckeye, with quiet sarcasm. A grave was dug beneath a spreading poplar, in which the body was decOntly interred. 'The earth was smoothed; and a fire 'built over the spot to prevent the- resting-plate of the mortal remains' froth being disturbed by the' natives. Dnriig 'tie'day's niaich'there'was considerable discusefont relative' to 'the man's deceased Aut Brion, Buckeye, and a' few others, studio msly avoided the topic. The latter had al666 y-ren- dered himself unpopular by the'singular'o inion he had 'advanced relati to thesubjeet. e had lost among a certain class who had eieiosly been disposed to think highly of his wisdom and experience, that repute whichie had gainedafor shrewdiiekamnong them. They, 'dob'T his mnentalsoundness, regarding hint'as we 'k'and superstitibe. 'i"Wher before hiis j'in eiee had been welcome, he was now4e&6 tihit beldness and riaicale "Sneel's, overt' 6t6s, and' un. friehdlgnnerdoepassedfroiinioth to mouth at his expense. kcih'deiioistr tidts the sturdy trapper did not deign to notice. He smoked his-pip salha- ly, conversed with the veteransiof the brigade, praised the go6d 'qualities of FIa h, ad'made eocaito fdi l dc ioitering eiiursi6ds In advance. Ita rel ddAkt byimh io obserbig tfat f . ,; r + s . : i k s "E s t i f a t S page: 12-13[View Page 12-13] e' I AI Atit. Brien was more thought0l sad 1teiturni than The Missourian's cheeks paled,'while the hun- usual, though they could verynaturally a$4ribute tears and trappers gazedat eac other in silence. the tP tp tha ireamatsage. the recent.death. "His' body lies yonder; he fell at his post. w he t .. p was, chosen with' particuar And perhaps," he continued, looking steadily at care, and unwonted precautions wero had .in Jeadley, "some of you can tell what he died seeing. a, d The, latter, twp in nuniber, of ?" wed geeatejn4dnight, wh, ,eadley and "A disease of the head or heart," muttered one of:hisfriends took. their places, with in- Buckeye, loud enoughfor Headley to hear. structions to be vigilant. Te ,Missourian heard . rion's men.now gathered aboutthe remains Brigai's orders with manifest imptence, and of the- unfortunate young man, seeking vainly demanded to know if he, supposed this was his for the wound that sped, him hence. Evidently_ first experience ontheprairies of the West. he had fallen where he had 'last stood, stricken " Y aggehave had some experiencen the mortally, nor had moved A linb thereafter. His- borde- toss,' sai the mountaineer, mildly, immortal partihad, been dismissed from his cork "but youltgv npt yet grown gray, with the vi- poreal tabernacle without a struggle or painful' cissitudgs ofaunter' ,life }qu're i ya region contortion. The face was as calm as if he now, where one, hour is no. type of what the slept ; the lips wexe ;closed, as were the eyes,; n4e4 will be. Things unexpected happen here. expressing no dread or.horror, or consciousness, Thierigare spventy-four of us, well, and in flght- of suffering; and the: ghastliness of) death was( ing condition; but in the morning it isn't impos- not written uponany of the features. sible tt.one may be missed from the number of When this spectacle first presented, an inter- his mess-1 have known a band like this to be val of silence followed; which anon gave place routed andc attered in a single night." to hurried queries no one-could (or would) an- , tissquP6an turned his- back upon Brion, swer. .Conjecture became rife, and speculation andg adegnogreply. and hypothesis united to sole the- mystery. The following ,morning proved cloudy .and Buckeye, Brion, and .other veterans in wood- dark, therefore "favorable to repose ; a circum- craft stood aloof. Headley, who' made preten- stasne of which, theweatryeadventurers availled sions to some knowledge of surgery, conducted thepaselves by sleeping soundly to a later hour the examination of the body, assisted by others tigan, they; had heen accustomed. Brion at of his sympathizers. Reluctantly he relinquish- legh arpued. them, and the, camp was soon ed. the search. Perfect'obscurity covered the asti; yvih active~ preparations for' cooking. case; a truth he- was loth to admit,,- for he Hel grwyfp found sleeping near-the fire, and prided himself on his perspicacity.' bejng awakened, by the. clatter around him, as- " Well, sir, what are your conclusions "" said seg ackeyee, wih a sinister smile, that he the partisan, as Headley turned away and passed ha . ape4s the disease, called apoplexy,; iw a the spot where he wasatanding. wok lmeper:: The former glancedquickly " There is no evidence that he died; of vio- ovpr4e grosopp f men, replying that :he hoped lence-not the least. It is a puzzling case; but it g f e las well with his comrade. Some his sudden deceased must be attributed to some one s ' ,; 4 -khereditary predisposition to--- Saslh . Where is he i Alow laughfrom huckeye interrup ted the . Sf oagugF,'I'll ;arrant," said easiley. speaker, and.sent-the blood to his fade in a -man- BeaJ yoices-alled ; to the-party referred to. per indicative of considerable:excitement. At tt f gnt riprs cameup to thegroup " Go on,".said the partisan, quietly. wit geg.ra'fe . "Not: another word!r" exclaimned Headley. " tle gopd will it do tocall him?--4,e41gev- "'Upon' some people .o00u=1 sense is thk-own er, answer gmaunpalL sgaim4" hea said in a ;sawy, and sound mason, predicated-on experi- low, measured tone. once,is just so m44h Greek Superstition and ve y f"#was fixed on;the partisan'- nan ignorance go together sir "- init A slight smile curled rion's 'lips for a me- 7yim tpe9iagone I' he added, ment, while nekeye stroked his long beard and " GC '.n 4 4,, a y , - , shrugged his shoulders, according-tohis habit. SWhenAei l iug i ny me-to ie' You decide, if ander tatd'yoii Mr. Head- grnaio f t4ead i" he 9ewred, sadly ley, that Minten died by some lurking disease, ws which came -to a sudden and fatal crisis' last night ?" resumed the partisan. TheMissourian ,bedwed stiffly.f " You do not care to 'be explicit, I see ' " Congestions'of the brdin, perhaps," replied Heidley, 'ill humoredly. "Or perhaps some difflkilty about the heart?" said Buekeye, with affected humility. . Headley darted an angrf look at the'offender; for nothing' upset his mental- equilibrim so quickly as doubthig'his knowledge, or ridiculing his opinions. He wa specialIyiafallible in his medical wisdotm, his fatheIr having been couri- try doctor; ith' a largd piae ie. Toward Buck- eye, within the laststwei days,;he had begun to' entertain a positive dislike, which thiateed' t6 go on gathering strength until it became abso- lute enmity and hatred., The trapper's "matter- offact assumption' of superior skill' id wood- craft had in the first place piqued him; then his obstinate refusal'to bow to his judgment in the inapprehensible 'cases 'of which, we have been treating, completed his antipathy. As we haWte taken care to impress ih upon the courteous read-1 er, the younger and less experienced portion of the band sympathized *th 'Headley, while only the veterans ,appeared to 'occupy neutral ground. Naturally superstitious, soe 'Of -'the 'trappers were ready tobeliete thWt Heaven frowned on their enterprise; audwas nianifestig itS disap- proval by thutisitations of dkath.' Gloom :ani discouragement settled npon the colilitenatces of' such, and they resthmed their nard'*ith a sutd lenness that boded t legoad to don's'schemer. 0H4.P TB . THE' UN TOwN oUTEI AGA n APPEA1ts. Trfn party moved llo4 1 on,'rion and Buck- eye remaining behind' With tw men to see the. body of Minten consigned its kindredhcements., and 'all traces of the'ga ie' obiteaied to prevent its subsequent exhuiii1dti h avAge hands. Thesinmple burial was senicompleted. Buck- eye was';in the 'act of lding the 'fagots that had 'bedn heaped 'on the pot by" the partisan's order,'when d iotsenana -ws descied aproach- ing att a galep. N'is hiied pace brou'h ,in quickly to the sfde 9ile thehmountaineer" ohad observed his advance 'iWfa utriositythat couli not be disguised. Theiiderwas "$e$linder youth,*hosougit his' lonelfIiua-fire onithe banks of th' 'Kaniiar, c, 4 Brion flfdisposed tO study the y ong litrap= ger close e noticed thatlis chin was guilt- less of beard,,his eyes large, vivacious, and sparkling,'his face dark, but comely. Although clad, as has before been stated, in befitting garb, his appearance was extremely neat, and Brion thought a trifle foppif. this idea was sustain- ed somewhat, by the fact that his feet and hands were smill, the first thcased in close fitting;moc- casons, ornamented' by Indian skill, the latter covered with'gloves of soft leather, long enough to reach above the wrist'a third of the way to the elbow. Iis small, elegant rifle was fastened ingeniously to the saddle on the right side, in a manner to be instantly available when wanted. A brace of silver-mounted pistols peeped from holsters at the pommel, while the handle of a dagger flashed in the sun at his-slight waist. He sat'-his horse with grace, and therefore with ease. And here we are brought naturally to speak of the qualities of the animal that bore the youthfuliider. He was large acid black as ebony, so that the mountaineer, and trapper could not but admire his model proportions. Their atten- tion was divided between the steed and his mis- ter, though too proud to confess by outward manifestation low much they were interested and puzzled,' or at least not while the eyes of the, youth were upon them. Good morning, messieurs," he said, with an accent not purel'Ainerican,yet clear and distinct. " Yes, it is afiery good morning, but I should like it better were it less cloudy," answered the partisan; with more courtesy than on .a former occasion. "I sdepeet we ought to be pleased with every- thing Providencesend&; not to be so, seems like finding fault with one with whose dispensations iv'have noight to meddle," was the immediate rejoinder. "I confess, good youth; that your reasoning has the sayor of-truth. Andy am now'remnaed that I arW probkblf" under some obligatipp .to you. I found near mae , on awaking the iext ndiring ftier your visit, a dead' serpent of a venprous kind, which was doubtless slain by you hapd"4dded Bridn. If thiat triing act confess obligationwhy, you are ighit. he creattire, was about todo, you an injury, and fortunately it was in ny power to-despatbhi himpefforehe fixed his fangs." oF r iic1iservice I iam deeply indebted. [f my recptiowasnottthat time entirly cordial,, anminlied wit i distrastI trust to atone for $e, same *in opportunity$ali present4" y :n aY it 11Zi tttt ) 3b s s t yy i 11 .s - tl page: 14-15[View Page 14-15] 1EDPATH. 1 y #5 " R S *' i . "r + r 3334 fi Ss3 ' Jill i , a " a III 1 E r - F, k F Brion spoke with some war- a'td bowed quite low; for the youth, despite his slight fig- ure and smooth face, had an air that in, some strange manner commandpd respect. The stranger's horse at that moment snuffed the air with affright, trembled, reared and made a sidelong bound. " he quiet, Brave, be quiet, I see nothing to fear," said his master, soothingly. " We have just buried a comrade here,; it is the scent of death that terrifies him," said the partisan. The young rider colored and backed Brave from the spot. " Did your friend find a natural death, or did he die by Indian hostility?" he inquired. "Indeed, sir, I will request my more expe- rienced companion to answer your question, feeling confident that he will get nearer the truth." "It seems to me that the matter is very sim- ple. Certainly, the answer must be yes or no; in which case one must be entirely right or abso- lutely wrong." "Ordinarily speakin', your idees would be perfectly to the pint ; but in the particlar in- stance, you are wide the mark," said Buckeye. " The cap'n has been pleased to refer to me ; but my opinion I dare say wouldn't be worthy much to ye. If it wouldn't be takin' too much liberty, I'd like to ask if your friends are far from here; for I take it you aint alone, seem' you're young and inexperienced, asI.may say ?" "I hope I have friends not far from me ; it would make me wretched to believe to the con- trary," was the evasive reply. Prudential motives hadaclearly dictated Buck- eye's query, and the youth appeared to com- prehend his feelings. "Being a stranger, you don't think it prudent to trust me; is it not so ?"' "Well, I had such a notion, I confess," said. the trapper. "And I am too youthful in appearance to in- vite confidence. Come, be true to yourself ! Have I not traced the workings of'your mind?" "If you never commit a greater blunder than that, you'll be a lucky lad," resumed Buckeye, with a characteristic motion of the shoulders. "But young heads," he, added, "may be dis- greet, and a beard isn't allers necessary to make' one shrewd ; though judgin' by appearances, I should naterally conclude you aint a veteran in woodcraft; and your fransis not calculated to endure the hardships and fatigues of this kind of life. It isn't my business, may be, yet I'd ad- vise ye as a friend to keep near your company." "I'm obliged to you for your good will, and will endeavor to take care of myself," was the good-natured reply. " I see you are about to move on. I will bear you company at least for a time, to which proposal ,I trustyou will have no, objections," he added, in the same vein. Briou felt a strong desire to know his new friend's name, purpose, and destination; but notwithstanding his situation was one to make such interrogatories proper,, he did not approach the subject withoutigonsiderable embarrassment that could not have escaped the observing eyes of the stranger. "I presume," he began, "that the party to which you are attached, seek these savage re- gionsfor the sake of excitement and. novelty. alone ? ' " Your judgment is good, my friend." The partisan, though dissatisfied with the re- ply, did not give up the pursuit- "Is your band large, sir ?" he resumed. "Not very; I will remark, too, that their in- terest, I think, will not to any considerable ex- tent conflict with yours. 'Be good enough to drop your suspicions, and permit me to see something of that) generous .confidence that I have heard. distinguishes the roving trapper of the West',, Had I been your enemy, I should 4ave permitted that ugly serpent to finish his work. Come, messieurs, tell me what caused the death of yogr ,emradegwhose grave is on the prairie, like a sailor's in the sea ?" These words were spoken with an ingenuous frankness that for the time passing, dispelled distrust from the mind of the mountaineer. Looking at the lad's frank, face, he'could not re- sist the convictionthat his intentions were friend- ly, his mind void ofhypcriy. "Forgive my reserve, good youth," saidthe partisan, with unaffected earnestness, pausing- and extending his hand, " The life that Iam at present follpwing,is one to make me distrustful of my fellows, and seal up, the warm fountains of the heart. Know, young sir, that I am, the leader of'art entefprise that, stirs ug the bitter- est feings of rivalry in pertain quarters-a ri- valryful.of all manner of subtlety and hostility. It has 'not been Iong thus, for you must under?' stand itha haye, until recently, been n t man's servant, nor tied tq other interest than my own. I have been a free trapper, consulting the stars and my own convictions to govern my course ; but since I accepted this leadership, I am anoth- er man. My eyes have to be in all directions. I am, in truth, a sort of a watch-dog to guard the property of others, and like that noble animal, shall be prized according to my faith- fulness and the acuteness of my instincts. So much for my apparent churlishness and reserve -an explanation I have not before deigned to, make even to the honest man you see at my side." "No more, I beg of you ! I know that you are the soul of generosity and honor ; otherwise, the language of the face is false in its utterance." This -flattering avowal had something more than the mere wording to commend it to the partisan; the tones went directly to that spot where human friendship begins. A sense of satisfaction accompanied the youth's speech into Brion's ears, and the last lingering fragment of contempt said adieu. He straightened his figure in the saddle, and seemed ten years younger with his handsome "face, free from lurking doubt, and his lips smiling through his dark beard. I " You do me too much credit, I assure you," he answered, in a genial voice, which caused the stripling to regard him with deepening at- tention. "But we will not dwell upon this mat. ter longer. Common courtesy touches my el- bow, reminding me that the civil question pro- posed by you has not been answered. You wish to know the cause of our associate's sudden de- -cease.- Let me inform you that'I have buried two of our men' within forty-eight hours, who bore on their persons novisible signs of violence.' Various conjecturep are formed in regard to the subject, the prevailing sentiment being, I think, that both died of a disease of the heart or brain. My friend Buckeye will not hesitate,-I expect, to speak his mind fully and freely, and, give us both the benefit of his. sousndjudgment and experience." The trapper mused, then looked inquiringly at the partisan, to see how far his expression; invited or Warranted confidence;, that idividual nodded to the mate interrogatory, but still.Buek. eye remained silent with his eyes' cast downward, to the pommel of his saddle, or fixed uponthe youth at his side, whose large horse bore him like a feather, apparently proud of his ;own, strength. "If I was to speak the truth like an honest man, as is beeomisg to me and all others, I4 should, assert confidently that the two men had r7i / i 14 15 REDPATH. foul play. 'atwarehow it'll seem to them that don't know what I do, and never heard the name of Redpath." The youth turned an eager, searching look on the trapper. " Stop, my friend," he said, " and allow me to interrupt you by asking, who is Redpath ?" "Ask anything you please, sir-ask what makes the grass grow, or the heart beat, or the sun shine? Such questions might be' common- place enough, and under some circumstances no doubt very proper ; but answering them is anoth- er affair."' "You mean to say that Redpath is a myste- rious personage, whom you know. only by-his deeds, or what is more probable, by hearsay." "Hearsay comes very near 'to' it, but don't quite cover the whole ground. I have seen ef- fects that were attributed to the one I named, by those Who had more knowledge of him than I. Redpath is the enemy of the white man, the sworn foe of the trapper and hunter. Where are his haunts, and what does he look like, will be ask- ed ? He is in the lonely defiles, on the moun- tains, in the forests, upon the wide prairies. He is one as gives no warni' of his approach. He comes and goes with the speed of an eagle on the wing; makes a swoop, strikes the pale- face with the shaft of death, and is away. He can't be trailed, he can't be follered, he can't be brought within the range of the double sights. He fiads a band like the cap'n's; he dogs it, he hangs upon it in the front, in the rear; yet nobody knows where he is, or what brings death upon 'em, or what power directs the hidden bolt. Where did I hear all this? you'll next want to know. By the dim watch-fires of the wandering hunter, in the- camp of the trapper, from the mouths of old voyagers, from the lips of fearless adventurers,, daring mountaineers, and in the wigwams offriendly Indians.'" The cheeks of the unknown youth grew pale, and the partisan's brow wore a sombre expres- sion during Buckeye's;singular recital. .He first observed them both attentively, as if' to satisfy himself-of the' sincerity of one, and to learn how much o'thetineredible tale' was credited by the other who had the-prestige of a strong mind above the vagaries of superstition. "What, is,our 'opinion of all this ?"° the stranger asked addressing Brion. The, latter colored' and appeared- disposed to evade thenoe qtestion, afraid either of being accused'of'weaknees, or shrinking, from speaking. page: 16-17[View Page 16-17] Ar f' t ~It i f 17 his honest convictions. His. eafldon did not pass unnoticed. " I am ready to confess that I have often heard- the nanie of Redpath up in the mountain yonder. The trappers wesgwont to talk of him -inlow tones over their night-fires and buaalohuimps. He is'supposed to be a bold and cunning sav age of great personal strength, who spends his life in avenging some real or fancied wrong. That his doings -are exaggerated, is very probe. able, and yet the being called Redpath'is dan- gerous. You may consider 'him fabulons; you may even smile tt my seriousness, and pity my credulity." "And so) you conclude Redpath slew your men ?" There was, satrifle of irony in the stranger's tones that did not escape Brion's notice. " I have:notyet admitted that, I believe'." "sIt was I who affirmed it," said Buckeye. " One admission which you made you have evidently forgotten; you stated clearly that' there were no marks of violence an the bodies ?"' Buckeye was; embarrassed by the cross ques- tioning of his new acquaintance; to gain time as well as to hide 'his momentary confusion, he helped himself to agenerous quid of tobacco. Like most men, he was afraid of ridicule, and that, in fact, was about-the only thing he feared in the world. " I know it has a curis look at firSt, but a fact' is a fact, and nothin' can change it' You see he has the knack of doi' it in austrainge. way." " I should think so." "I reckon it' wont make no great difference what you think 1" retorted Buckeye, frowning. . "Not the slightest'; but it is a very myste- rions tale you hate been telling, and you must pardon a littlenatural doubt on my part. If'you scowl-thus, I shall leave-you.'" The trapper said" to himself; "It wont-be 'a' great loss." "A story-after making theclreit-ofthe TRocky; Mountainsfmust' neeesra ily bell growkrwhen it gets here?',the tnknowna dded. 5 "AndIdare :say yondll get tbe Win wheni you have gone half that"distanee!M B ckeye rejoined,with spice of;sarcasni;l :_} It was now the' youth's turto ebw cac fdsetI; hereddened toihe eyejbr s, whfiec'thetrapfper congratulated himself on ,hiekyihit: "Be steiaIfBrave;"'saiditheyouths; 'anred- monitidn sedtniigly'quise slesagasars wa at thaeiastanttas dheileas-he couldspo sibly'be: " To be killed," suddenly resumed the young man, rallying, " one must inevitably receive in- juries of some kind-either wounds-or bruises- something to leave tangible marks upon the pei- son. Tell me, noW, is there not some reason in 'this logic?" 0' 0 too much," replied Buckeye, sullenly. Pardon, sir," continued' the other, addressing Brion, "you have interested me very much in this Wonderful relation. Really, do-you believe in this savage vampire-this Gian Ben Gian of the prairies 1' "'No, more than what I am constrained to. We may injure ourselves as much' by believing too-little as -in believing too much. Danger that is apprehended is in a measure guarded against. Though young in years, your intelli- gent' face assures me that you understand the force of my last remark." "Do you fear this inexplicable enemy of the pale faces " Whatever' fault this question might have, -it did not' lack explicitness. The hot blood flew to Brion's face in an instant, and he-turned a proud, rebuking face upon the questioner. " Your extreme youthfulness," he said, with dignified severity, "induces me to overlook the-. the-impertinence of your question."- "I have offended." "And I have forgiven:" ' " Thanks !" " Speak no more of it. I shall be cautious' but not cowardly. 'Ihate cowardice--it is a spe- cies of meanhess- indicative of a pitiful spirit.. This worthy trapper has' spoken of Redpath-a personage either real or' imaginary -Md he has expressed his opinion freely. Not so have I.. If such an 'one' exists,'it-is my fixed pu-pose to knot"more ofdin-to iin'ask'himy-todiscover 'if he really pirsueswhite menwith the malignity, aid seereey:With which'o'the tongue of mountain rumor has charged him. I n that I have my' doubts, and"Certain Circumstaneea stagger and ;erplet die. My caihp-in' future shall beon the alert; a prairie dog shall not be able to pass 'it 'unseen.On'neiies shall know'what' it is to oawita veteratumountaiieer9"s' Baekeye glanced 'atthe partisan "with an air' of pride avdsati sfetioi; it? pleased him tore-- fieet 'that'sueh, a'brave,'W6lHispoken man was a' ;brother trapper. He cried, " Hi, hi !" to Flash,' causing btditd thoet ahead of' his eompanios like at-arrWe. Bravel"liai his daeatbek, off dat' ed that another animal shouldhave the audacity REDPPH. to pass him. Buckeye's exhilaration soon ex- pended itself, and he allowed Brion to come up with him. "Your horse has excellent qualities, I'm sure," the young man remarked, as tsqkeyere- sumed his former place. "He hasn't no equal between this and the Pacific, I reckon-no superior,- sartin.!" "Sagacious and intelligent; without doubt. You call him Flash on account, of his speed, perhaps ?" "Jest for that reason, Mister, and no other. He isn't so fat and sleek as some hoss-flesh I've seen, but when there's need,I know pretty near where to find him. Flash has a few tricks too, that I've learned him, :e'enamost human." Brion glanced at 'the stranger youth at that moment, and perceived that he waslooking at the hatchet that he 'had taken from the tree in the manner described, .and which he had .carried ever since at his side or his saddle-bow. Seeing that the partisan had detected the directionof his eyes, he appeared disconcerted, and ,instantly turned his attention another way. The moun- taineer was sagacious and quick to observe, and the circumstance, slight as it was, did not pass unnoted. A .train of novel ideas began there- upon to whirl through his brain; he seemed trying to work out some kind of.a problem with. out being able to find the proper data from which to start. Buckeye contrived to touch him on the arm,giving him a warning look that said, " Cap'n, I'm very suspicious of this little feller" But a change held, eme over the partisan-the signs of the trapper were upheeded; he rode on singularly taciturn and reflective. "Look, comrade, there's a- horseman away yonder, and he's making signals 1" exclaimed Buckeye, pointing toward the muntains. "I thank youfor your company,.brave knights of the rifle and.trap. v4dieu, messieurs, adieu !" With a neigh of joy, Brave recognized the signal to go, and sprang away with a force that made the ground tremble. "A spy," cried the. trapper, Yehemently. " Say but the word, c ap'n, and I'Al loller and bring the young scamp back"- "Do no such thing,"said lrion, earnedtly. t'And what ,en propose-i s impracticable.. See how pe rides,! Ah, nly friend, you might -as, well chase the wind !" Buckeye gazed after the black horse and hisgider with beth vexatios aid admiration-vexed he hardly knewfgr what; and admiring because of :the. swiftness of the steed. He shook his wise head dubiously, wonderingg how sueh .a silken sort of lad got so ;far from home; and phae ewas good for. -small bands and feet, Gslight frame, neatly fitting gar mente, a ontt and comely face, ,were ;ireeppci bi with hip notions )f woodcraft. " I.hve, asecret," he said, At length. "Well ?" 4 ]t is worth kpowin'/' " I hold like to hear it T" " But qo4ay I _yopt tell you. Do you know it isn't a cky day to tell a secret? You,don't, of course. I see it by your.expression." "Yon excite my curiosity, much. When shall I have your ,confidence I" "To.morrow, like egoggh ; we shall see. Iut here is the rerofyourlazy fellows, ad the:very first man of them cis that conceited coxcgmb, Ifeadley ! ,en't tolerate him, so I'll pa!s you:; but I'll stroll into your camp ;before the moon i' up to-night." The trapper urged Ash to a gallop, and bounded along the almost interminable reach of pr ide. His.stout figure was soon but a mere speck betweerf the plain an4 the horizon, still growing less and less to the eyes .that followed CHAPTER IIL IN WHICH BELL5AR AND MARIOT APPS4R. wr is needful that we make a retrograde move. memlt, that the next advance in the line of march of our story may be luore orderly and intelligi- ble to those so;obliging as to.-follow us in our ruvings isthp distant West. Apbrose Sellar and - Pierre Mariot were residents-of Westport, and :partners in the for trade, nually sending forth , brigade of trap- pers. . The first wasa elderly man; the father ofa daughter who had attained to seventeen years, as well as Ito. a gree of beauty exceed. ingly rare,.cyeIn the pages of romance. 'Pierre Mariot was the son of Jules Meript, Monsieur Slimar'! late partner, decessed, The young man had beer addaitted ,o the pss of "ell' mar & Marit," p rgy Qp jt9 *ff the friend, ship that Rella had intertaiuepdfor his father, and parly: because hd.i4 aet wish the water's funds withdrawn from the.enterprise at a time when there was a agvy pressure in the money- market.- . le Bft ar h ;ight have had other scheine ;i his mind, Qf which we may presently speah. 10 7 f IntM-ATHY. 16 as s JLJL. page: 18-19[View Page 18-19] i Als ii 'S" Pierre entered keenly into the rivalry of the trade, with fewer conscientious scruples than his predecessor. To the senior partner's credit be it written, that he had more of that which men terni principlee' than the junior ; b t' Mr. Bell- mar or Monsieur Bellmar-forhe was a French- man-was avaricious, possessed of a restless, insatiate spirit of gain, which led him on step by step, encouraged by Pierre, to many acts that he feared would -trouble him on his death-bed. The new fur company had injured his business; there had been a perceptible decline in his income since its organization. -Such a state of things alarmed his cupidity, stimulating him to devise means to checkmate his competitors, and-turn the stream of gold once more into his coffers. Strategy he had always encouraged and reward- ed, when successful among his employees ; but since the new association had secured the ser- 'vices of Ben Brion as leader of the trapping op- erations, he was aware that ordinary art would fall; , therefore something out' of the common order must be done, or the tradewould' languish, and he perhaps be driven, ultimately, rentirely- from the field that he had occupied so long, and gleaned his wealth from. Pierre Mariot, who had also heard the note of warning which this arrangement had sounded, gave evidence-that he would set himself at work in earnest. Mignon-Bellmar's daughter-was one day in the library, amusing herself, as she was wont, with her good companions, the books. She heard her father approaching, accompanied by Mariot, whose, voice always admonished her of his proximity.- There was a'small apartment beyond, and into that Mignon went,-closing the door. By the time she was seated, ready to re- sume her reading, "Billtnar and Pierre reached the library. Mademoiselle Mignon' observed that something, very unusual took place, viz.,. Mariot shut the door and locked it, after which she heard him draw adlhair'near 'the writing- desk'where her father invariably 'sat. - Mignon did not like her position. "She was forced to be a listener, provided they conversed in their nat- ural- tones, ther1'being no mode;of egress- save through the apartuient taken possession' of. " You are a*are,b-Monsieur Bellmar, that this confounded *ifsr company that haS 'given" us so much uneasiness; has engaged Ben Brion for its leader1 ? Brion, you will remember,' is: the man whose services we tried to secure ?"' " Yes, the disagreeable news has reached me. I perceive that our business will sustain a se= verer check than ever, Monsieur Mariot." "Can you doubt it? Something must be done," said Pierre. "Mg foi!1 we have not ceased to do something ever since these unlucky rival companies existed. What new expedient remains?"' "That is a point to be settled by us, and with- out delay."'. "Ah, my friend, common strategy will not do with Ben Brion." "Who knows that better than I ? ' It is for that very reason that we must take measures bold and energetic." M. Bellmar mused. " We are quite alone, I suppose ?" Mariot added. Mignon,'who sat directly opposite the keyhole of the door, was now listening with eager inter- est, and without' a single feeling of compunction.- "Entirely alone," replied Bellmar. "We must ruin the American Fur Compa- ny !" with emphasis on the word "ruin." " Be good enough to tell me howl? my strate- gical resources are exhausted." "We must break up and disorganize the party under Brion." " You are just as far from the question, Mon- sieur Mariot.' You do not inform me how this is to be accomplished." "By means that may perchance startle you.", Mignon shuddered, knowing that something terrible was in Mariot's mind ; she knew by the tones of his voice. "We must keep the penalties of the law in view,' quoth Bellmar, wriggling in his chair. "Law does not' reach 'beyond Fort Leaven- worth. We will employ ilustruments that laugh at the word law." "Indians i" Mignon made a slight movement. "What' was'that ?" asked Pierre. " Nothing ; go on; you would, you say, em- ploy savages-at least, you mean so to be un- derstood?" "Yes; our enemies-they who take from me my business, are my' enemies-must be awed, shocked, stunned, scattered, the survivors driven from the trapping groundslike trembling sheep.' Mariot pronounced these words with startling energy, stamping angrily upon the floor. "There is much evil in-that man;" thought Mignon;' "Proceed," said the senior. " I have'told yott all." "Foudre I" exclaimed Bellmar, impatiently. " You have told me nothing 1" "Leave the ways and means to me, and you will have naught to regret." Monsieur Bellnar rose and paced the floor. "I shrink from acts"of hostility," he added." "I shrink from losing my invested' capital l" retorted Mariot, 'in a hard, dry tone'in which self was uppermost. "Such things lay heavy on 'one's conscience as one grows old, Pierre," retorted Bellmar, in deprecating way: " It would grieve me to be obliged to with- draw my capital, and dissolve the old and re- spectable house of Bellitar &'Mariot." " It would be a sad blow to a man'of my years, wanting as I do, your youthfulness and energy." " Will you abandon this to me ?" "Nous verrons f" " Delay will baffie my purpose ; accede at once." " You will send agents ?" " Doubtless." "Perhaps go yourself?" "It is possible." "And it will cost ?" "A thousand dollars." "So much '?" " The benefits will be tenfold. 'That company annihilated, we go on again as in old times, when my father lived." " What do yous propose in relation to Brion ?" "Pardon, monsieur, but I will not worry you with details. You consent " . " You will be ,careful of'human life ? Blood on your conscience will prove a 'burden." "Do not be uneasy. I will'play my hand skilfully; but remember that I do iot promise to do mischief!" " Well, Mariot, -be discreet and spend money to advantage. By the way, I have received a letter from our Indian agent, Fournier, which I will show you. It is in my pocket--no, it is in, a coat that I took off yesterday. I will gofor it." "4Bellmar is getting into his dotage; he is too weak, too weak I''-muttered Mariot, the mo- ment the senior left the room. " He'wishes for a plan of the campaign, but fain not sb stupid as to show my order'of Battle; it would strike him dumb, hidiserves are so shattered." "Ah," said Mignon, to herself," " you do not know who heardPthat-rem*;rL" " Once in receipt of nifyplah, he would soon betray all to Migndoi. Mignon is timid, and her conscience is as sensitive o evil as 'mercury to the changes'oftepetattiie ' "Astute Pierre Mariot!" thought Mademoi- selle Belmar. The senior returned with the letter, which treated in the main, of affairs of no interest to the reader ; in it, however, occurred this curious passage. *The trappers and hunters, who are daily arriving at the'trading-house, have much to say about that mysterious personage whom I referred to in a former letter. He' is supposed, by many, to be a celebrated Blackfoot chief that bears mortal enmity to all whose faces are white. Would it not be lucky if he should cross the trail of the new company, and give them a taste of his quality ? I am endeavoring to cultivate friendly relations with the Blaek- feet, with a fair prospect of success. I think it would be well to send out a fresh stock of In- dian finery by your next brigade, such as glass beads, ribbons, pipes. Also a lot of hunting- knives and cheap guns. But do not be too san- guine about the Blackfeet; they are a wily, cruel, intractable race in every particular, differ- ing from their neighbors, the Nez Perces, who are a harmless, honest people, on ghom we can rely in all pertaining to legitimate trade, but who cannot easily be, induced to act against other companies - in turning' the tide of traffic to our interest." " Do you know much of this redoubtable na- tive to which Fournier alludes ?" Mariot inquir- ed, with an earnestness that he regretted a mo- ment after. "'By common camp gossip, only ;"a species of information not very reliable, friend Pierre," was theresponse. "Is henot a being purely of the imagination, think you-a sort of bugbear created by some va- grant adventurer, to put tongues in motion that had been too long silent'to be particular I" ' It may be thus, but it is scarcely probable. Mountaineers are shrewd, and the American free trapper has sense, and 'always understands what he's about." "Do the Americans alsO' talk of Redpath ?" "Yes, mon ami.' I aon'ersed with one -Buck- eye, a genuine type of the free trapper class, that has a frm belief in such a personage." " Well,"there is nothing marvellous in the fact that an' Indian chief should be revengeful, spurred on as he may be by a burning sense of wrong. wih l it is not that whieh excites alarm;it is the matini 'of his vengeance, theterrible mystery that hangs over his movement, his wondrous SEDPATH. l18 RED#AITH. 19, page: 20-21[View Page 20-21] 4' S f 1' iIj IL }tii silence and .secrecy, his astopishing ,power of eluding pursuit, his fearful perseverAnge." "You speak earnestly,.Mogsieur Bellnr." " Not earnestly, but tosthe point."' And then the seniorgdded: "Our rivals ire making r pg efforts to fill up their brigade Thgy soon he ready for the western trail." . "[ must be three weeks in advance of them; that is, my agent must. wil dog them with such influences-" " Go Qn, sr." "As-as shall greatly surprise them," he rp-' pumed, in a voice much modified, and with A smile. "This is a quiet place to make confidential ar- rangements," he continued, looking about him with a satisfied air. " I may wish to be closeted here at this hour to-morrow, ta, confer with some good friends of ours.. And now I think I am commissioned to look after our owu,mutual:in- terests. It is getting later-I iu t meet an ap- pointment." .h.l The parties arose and left the library, while Mignon remained in her chair, like one very much startled and confounded. She bad satis- lied herself long before that Pierre lariot was a man of a low standard of morality, but she was not prepared to believe him so much , villain as he had proved himsplf. He was meditating crime--schening the ruin of others-planning deeds of blood--drawing her father into the vor-- tex of his evil mind. Ah, Mariot, your last vir- tue and your last chance faded from the heprt of Mignon that morning. She scorned, she despis- ed you, when you left the house, full of dark de- vices for the overthrow of your brother man ! )Iignon went to the window, the, only one.in the room, and which fronted the street, The sash was, raised a little. Mariot and her father had reached the ;khallogor, and the former was upon the steps when she heard him remark : " Here comes Brion 1" Mademoiselle ellngr gt; er eyes 4own the street, and saw a mnpu ,onhorseback, -'He was mounted o a stot bay animal that carried himself proudly, like a trained horse o .parade. e presentation W4i sIking, ealcgated to im- prss one with the majesty of the human figure, the noble strength aid piri~t.of the horse, and the dignity of both when gracefully united. " How noble !" exclaimed Mignon, enthusi- astically, then flushing et her war phesbp drew peck. Orion sat firmly andrerect, his stalwort pro- portions seeming, a portion fhis g~oris steed, his ljeft hand grsping thypg Ids right at rest, by1a4ssde, his 4ace a-glow, his. boldeyes full of aningation. "A fine picture. 0, Pierre. Iarint, if you coul4 only look like that," soliloquized Mignon. " But that s irnpossijeis; ,onlyApoble nature can look neblp." ,' ,4 "He reminds one of the gallant cavaliers of the old school," she heard her father say. Brion was now oppositethe .house; he raised his eyes to the window.and spy lIigron., She was charm- ing, and the gaze he thusunwillingly surprised, thrilled hin, and made himblbush ike.,a school- girl convicted of e misdemeanorr. Familiarity with Nature in her simplest and yet grandest form of development had not huntedd Brion's susceptibility to those delightful emotions which the presence of a lovely womaninspires. For a second, an appreciative space of time to the-soul -the mountaineer was dazzled and at a loss ; then he recovered his self-possession, and bowed like a knight templar. Mignon ran from the window, in a strange flutter of excitement, and the sound.of clatter- ing hoofs follpwed-her to her chamber., 0 Mignon ! lost and won, in single day! Three individuals answering, to ,the appella- tives of Grenier, Kinesid and ardette; were segfed upon a bench not far fro the establish- ment.of Belmar $ Mariot. The first was a, Ger- man, the, second a Frenchman, the third, a half- breed. Grenier -was despairing, Kincaid.angry, Gardette saulen, and all were hungry. They belonged to the lazier, less efficient and most un- scrupulous of the mountsinegrs. Their pypsent possessions were:meagre,:-having nothing, about them but bad reputations, which they had richly earned, and were in a fair way to keep. They ha4 offered their services to varigns furcompas- nies without success, theireharacters for good- for-nothings being pryextensively known and appreciated. , h he.three unworthies bad been seen about Westpor, more or less drunkenforthe last three weeks, during winei tinyethey h lcreatedA feel' ing ofuniversalfisie,otufre"gently insulting the wives and daug tere of ;respetable citizens beside cwm tting,;veros ;thsas to gain the means, probably,, deipntinugig their debauch. Their resopsresa well e the patience of the inhabitants, were at exgth exhastp4; theywere warned to leave the place within four-and-twen- ty hours, under the dire penalty of a coat of tar and feathers-a garment dreaded alike by every class of the genus homo.- The=short period -of grace allowed them would expire in the morning; but there were serious obstacles in the way of- their departure. Let it be understood that they had no horses, no- arms, nor anything like a proper outfit for the mountains. They could have dispensed with the first, had they been pro- videdwith the second;, but guns and ammunition were essential necessities, without which they would starve upon the trail. They realized the dilemma into which they had. fallen, and were combining their remaining wits to surmount the difficulties that beset them. Various projects had been discussed, but all in turn rejected, either as impracticable, or unadapted to the emergency; hence their gloomy visages. " Monsieur Mariot cmes this way," said Kin- caid, whose anger-inflamed eyes chanced to be turned to the storehouse of Bellmar & Mariot. " Let him come," retorted Grenier, in a mel- ancholy tone. " Let us hold a knife to his throat till he hire us," proposed the former.' "That's a fool's adviceI" affirmed:Grenier. "You're alwayasgrumbling !" quoth Kincaid., "Let us go to the Indians !" said Gardette. "And have our scalps taken off," added Kin- caid, spitefully. " Be still. Mariot has something to say to us., I know by the way he looks and walks," said Grenier. , Pierre Mariot approached the trio with a mien so guarded that it was impossible for the parties, to divine whether his coming boded'good or evil. 4' Well, messieurs, when do you start for the mountains ?" he asked. Grenierheld his tongue; the-half-breed turn- ed his back to the questioner, and Kincaid said, in a defiant voice: ' "-When we get ready, moneleur !" "Ah, I seef you're waiting for an outfit," re- turned Mariot, in a tone- that at once reraide& Kincaid of the tar and feathers in reserve; he clenched his fist, and' scowled ominously. " You'd do-well to keep your Jests at home I" he gruffly retorted. "Youateinexeerablete1tes, ny good fellow. What will you:wagerthat I shall not -make you re m amiable;before.Lleave you 1' , ., "You'd better go about your, business" said Kincaidperversely. 2 "Be reasonable, and don't destroy the only chance left you; it lays between starvaton and feathers, as it is now; but I can set you right again, if I will." " We tried you, and you -refused us-hiring green hands in preference ; that is"why I advise you to leave us." "But if I have changed my mind ?" " Why then, speak out, and we'll hear you." "You are acquainted with the country ?" "I know every yard- of it from here to Co- lumbia River.' I have starved in the Wind Riverrange, feasted at the Yellow Stone; frozen on the Salmon Mountain, and thawed at Walla- Walla. So have' my comrades," asserted the Frenchman, confidently.' "Are you on friendly footing with many of the Indian tribes ?" "With nearly all of them." "And can speak their language, I suppose?" "As well as my mother tongue." "I want men who combine shrewdness, ener- gy and courage, with other qualities." "We have all the qualities you want, mon- sieur," said 'Kincaid, modestly. "I wish you to act as my agents. I shallpay you liberally, providing you enter into my ser- vice with zeal." "Agents, Monsieur Marlot!" exclaimed Grenier. - "Agents in reality, if not openly. You know there are rival ban4s inthe field ?" ":I get a little light, monsieur," "I shall supply ; you with horses and allthat you need, This is no place to give you instruc- tions, neither is our office; therefore you will meet me at Bellmar's, where, we can talk confi- dently, for you must know this is a matter of great importece and secrecy." "We'll be.there, but our engagementic wont 'admit of-much delay; monsieur," said Kincaid, with a knowing leer. " I am aware of it,' )Mariot answered, with a smile "An& now promise me that if l pay you a few dollars in advance, you willnot go and get so drank that you will -notbe ableto.comprehend what you will berequired to do." "O.s)e as if that were possible !". cried ,Gr- nier innocently, casting die same juoment 'a meaning glance at his sssociates. ; " You are'trasty as steel itself I've no doubt; so here iswhatwillpatdifferest aesenyou." I' Thathas ,the complexion of silver,,I really believe !" saidKineaid, REDPATHP 21 REDPA. T~ .; page: 22-23[View Page 22-23] I it rI ti Ay7 Mariot having said all tbat he deemed of and cqe seee, left.the nataineers to: reflect ,o tie, happy turn of circuratinceis. " You may be sure something wicked: is to be doesaid the. Fwechman, the moment Pierr wa outi qfhearing. " Cunning and bad," quoth Gardette "Our conaciences-are tender," Kincaid added with mom isanctimoglousness. "And obliging to a weakness,",said Grenier. ' hereforeshould be strengthened by internal appatip. Come; mountaineers, remember we are te conduct civilly and morally,, and-not make brutes ourselves. Only think thatMaiot could for aniustaatipoagine weshould get drukl Foudrel were ever men so wrongedV" cried Ki-i. caid, in better temper. CHAPTER IV:. MARIO' MEETe WITH PIPA OINTMnNT. In was nearly' dark. Mignon awas returning home from a long walk. She had chosen an unfaeq tented path that she mightreflect without interruption, having much to think of'seriously. Sha found herself placed in an awkward posi- tion in:regard to Pierre Mariott and it was of 'that she was meditating. Voices and boisterous laughter reached her ears, assuring her that per- sons were near ; indeed, two men were already in sight, and presently a third ,joined them. Mignon would gladly have evaded them had it been possible; but that-was outtof the question, therebeing no other road andtheyclose at hand- She went forward unhesitatingly with what res- olutibnashe could command, noteven raising her eyes to the faces of the illmannered trio, one of whom placed himself so- as to abstract the-way. Rude jests assailed Mignon ; she was alarmed, "If {the, people -.f'the town threaten usy'to repay them we will insaltstkeir-daughters," said one, staggering toward Mademoiselle Bellinar. " is nO more than just," cried second. "Iuthe she it' pale-she will tint"" added the third sneeringly. M4hew defieto you are, miss. And what pretty goods you wear! Dear -re, not =so fast now' ;you will d'rivse ue of yourempany tioo soon' etnmed-he, rho hadfirst spoken, in the slow, thick utterance ofa -drunke an. 'd$)you are a giea} deal better thantpoor fel- lows like us. But it sl 'auas a are who' make your 'townsmen ian drue=yet for it only threats and bad words:' y Mignon recoiled with a cry of terror, for one a of the villains had the insolence. to grasp her arm, employing 'language -that made her cheeks e redden with shome and indignation. She had e the presence of mind to cry for assistance';- and it came promptly and resolutely. A mani-hose eyes seemed to emit lightning, scattered the in- sulters and supported Mignon. His presence was a Gibraltar of strength to Mignon-there Was such noble determination in his face, such I manliness in. his shapely figure. She recognized the horseman who had ridden so gallantly,-Ben Brion, the mountaineer,' whose name had been mentioned by Mariot. Mademoiselle was'so pretty, so engaging in her deportment, so graceful and warm in the expression of her gratitude, that the partisan sighed when he left her, regretting that his.-call- ing would so soon take him, from Westport, from the vicinage of the only woman who had ever quickened the pulsations of his honest heart. Pierre Mariot had a long conversation with Grenier, Kincaid and Gardette, at the time ap- pointed. Miss Bellmar was as punctual as he, believing it not an act of meanness to hear the development of a'efarious scheme for the injury of those pursuing a lawful- aid honorable busi- ness. It would not be edifying to the reader to state all that was said in detail; a few of the most important points will be touched upon. "I think you told me, messieurs mountain' eers," said. Pierre, graciously, "that your en- gagensent woul4 fcnpel you to leave Westport at an early hoursO-das'" ".Wei have but ,a hour's grace, monsieur,- -and then the canaille of this accursed place will be upon' us," replied Kincaid, who acted as spokesman forl histomudes. "Not the canaille alone, worthy hunter, for the more respectable townsmen are much exas- {erated4atyo0e free ac& easy manners. I fear yo; hae acted scaalously, but that is no business-of -mins; it deranges my plans a little, but I can get. along.Now. wewill to the mat- ter ih ad. I hope yu ae .sober enoughu to comprehendd ?" Marlot assumed;.4diffetet-tone and bearing; hp, spoke- firmly, determinedly and rapidly, keeping his keeillypenetrating eyesaied steadi. ly upon his listeners. " I want men that can act disereely-not those who eal only get drunk and act the blaggart and bailer. If r employ you and pay you, you must do my bidding to the letter, add with-' out useless questioning. I know that you are not scrupulous. Keep silent; if you were honest men, you would not do for r"e ; aid if you flat- ter yohlsevet that you are such, you have only to walk out of the house; for in that case our neg~tlatiohs' will stop at once. Iwaht'subtle"- " 0 monsieur, I trust you Were not going to say knave I'* interrupted Kiucaid., "Three subtle fellows, willing . to eain their' money according to the wishes of their employ- er. IoW hear'my plan. You afe to start this very day, for I wish you to be Some Weeks in ad- vance of the band about to be sent out by the American Pur Company, oft*hich Brion is cap- tain. Your business will be to vex, annoy, mis- lead, deceive, undermine, injure, and if'ptissilile annihilate the rival enterprise. fou are to op- erate -upon the Indians by truth or falsehood- just Which Will best serve your utpose, and by presents. You will sour the minds of those dis- posed to be friendly, and excite to a greater de- gree the enmity of those already hostile to White men. ' With all your knowledge of Saages; you will have no trouble in effecting-this. Are you understanding me, mhessieurs ?" - The parties signified that they were. "In your rovings over the mountains, you have doubtless heard the name of Redpath. Come, tell me the truth-is there or is there not such a being?" The sun-browned face of . Eincaid grew a shade whiter; he took his own time to reply, speaking slowly, and with less assurance. Redpath is as real as you or I, or Gardette, or Grenier, or anybody thatlives." There, you are serious, now. Andp mfois, your lips are Palo. I see that you are not above the weakness of superstition. Are the deeds of this-red scarecrow dark and terrible4I" "To those whom he devotesetohis-vongeanee, yes. But we never talk much- of him when tie other ,sideof the south Pass; at-leaEt, myself and companions4on't -; he is apt to be nar'when talked, of_ We breathe- his, name in ' whispe r on the trapping grounds, especally at night whew our lireeasrelighted/' "It durtrg tin ight tliefe o thst he strikethr vietis t" "At-alltiher and se son , mo sie" "And is it true," continued' Marlo,-siklng' DFATR. A1!T. 28 his voice, "that he kills iixouti leaving'the sign of violence on the body' " So it is rmtrnored, but I have hedrd that'it is not always the case. Ont why do you question me W" "If you are qcklek at catching an idea, ybun have already srmised: If there is such a cha- acter as Redpath, 1 wish to unloose hit like' fierce bloodhound on the traii of Brioa's band". "Ah, monsieur, who will r1kt his sealjith jtlt him on the scent ?' exclaimed Grenier, with a shudder. "He is said to be a Blackfoot I"' "Yes," responded Kincaid. "Add the Blackfeet-." "Are the pests" and terror of the tappers," the former added. "But Gardette," said Grenlor, and then stop- ped, looking inquiringly at the half-breed. " Gardette," repeated1idirre. " Has lived with tidni ahd s jeaks the Blanlk- foot language," added Kincaid. de Thea he can unchain the hound !' resumed Mariot, calmly. "Bait that you know, *otld result in lots cf life, dioisisar: " What doyou think, my good fellow ? Mia- riot inquired, urng'to"GMette. "I prefer to have as little to do with Red= path as possible." Pierre Marloi slipped sotue money into the half-breed's hand, saying: " But you will see'ifthe thing ean be done?" Gardette nddead. "Let it be sdo inddrktdod; and if yd tre successful, you shall aeeie-" the rest of thecdthintlicdtlofn hsiisp dM,' acid Mignod dlidot hektit. "We ntustbedwo#,"s ift (rele " "tio to Fort fLeavettnvrth, Said . y li ho and outfit shall be sent after ybu 1willg niyselftb givd you farther instrhetions. Do ydtlt reSpetIvely agi-ee t6 carry eoit the il fi wishes ?" "we 1a; ie'wilIdd our best, or rather ours -worst. We are yonrs." " Evetythin shall be prepared wlthout'delay. So hbegone; If yon~woutd save thjesuit thlhii itants promised you." The conference brbke up, leaving ]fgain to niake what use she plou ed of that ' fehl shy had heard,' and to think what she might oftlif character ofPierre. 'he bothloathed astdtied the man that could delih'b'rally plan theesla eab / page: 24-25[View Page 24-25] REDPATH. 25 24" RED 'ATH,. tion of human life. She met him an hour after ward, pale but calm. Iis features were soften- e4 'by smiles of affected, gaiety-he studied to assumehis most agreeablyphases and phrases. His playfulness might havebeen amusing had it been sincere. Mignon permitted him to ex- haust his. pleasantries with an appearance of complaisance quite at variance with her feelings, well knowing there was something mo re serious behindUall Monsieur Mariot's good humor. He grew sentimental and graciously grave-indica- tions that he was wearing the point. " In view of our approaching marriage "-he began. "What did you say, sir ?" asked Mignon. "I was going to observe, that in view of our approaching marriage-" "Marriage,. Monsieur Mariot?, Did you not say marriage ?" " That air was charmingly put on, Mignon ! Yes I-said the word you have repeated with so much emphasis." "Pleasesallow me to inquire to what parties the word ' our' is intended to apply ?" . " To ypur charming self and your humble servant, Pierre Mariot," he returned, bowing. " That is news indeed ! How facetious you are to-day. I have not seen you so amusing for a lon time." "It is you who are facetious, it seems to me, Mademoiselle Bellmar. Your father and I con- versed seriously on this subject last night ; he agrees with me that farther procrastination is unnecessary. You are aware that it was the intention of our parents that we should be united when of a proper , age. Such a compact was V made when we were but children, I think my attentions to you have, been of a character not to be misunderstood., I believed that my advances were reeivd as they were intended; that your own-sympathies as well as the wishes of your, father .were in my favor, leading you naturally to eapeet that the day of gur union must be, near at hand ; it has even been referred to by me ,iner Jearing, as an event long calculated upon." " Monsieurfariot, Iknow. nothing of a mar- rigge take placebetween you and I," sail Mignon, calmly. e" ganuyoujest witl such a serious air that you a3 r ume!" exclaimedPierre, turning very " Be-assured there will be no marriage be- tween us,"sheT added, in the same tone. "You positively alarm me. Your manner is really chilling. Do youmean to be understood that all is at an end between is ?". " I simply mean to say tiat I shall never- marry you, Monsieur Mariot." " Mademoiselle Bellmar !" "Am I sufileiently plain' in .my speech to be apprehended ?" "You are cruelly plain if you are in earnest," he replied. " I never was and never expect to be more in earnest than at this moment. You are to re- ceive this decision as final." "0, I cannot believe this-it is too unexpect- ed," cried Mariot, in a hoarse voice. "Your vanity led you to expect nothing but success. You were always vain, Pierre Mariot. But thank heaven, I have never offered incense to your vanity." Mariot's pale cheeks flushed when Mignon spoke of his vanity; the shaft went home. "I must go to your father. I must know the meaning of this,. I will beg of him to bring you to reason." "Is it my father that you wish to marry, monsieur, or his daughter ?" "Mignon] you are killing me !" "The gifted and the good die young." " What bitterness, Mademoiselle Bellmar. Will you not regret;this ? I may lose patience, and remorse may visit you when it is too late." "Your vanity spoke then; but do not trou-" ble yourself, I lieg of you. "When I repent mny present decision, I shall better apprehend your menace. You wish to insinuate that I shall sustain a great loss. Believe me, now, I ai perfectly resigned to it," she rejoined. " What will your worthy father say when he knows your deteininatioft i Mignon, spare him such grief, this union has been the dieam o fhis life !" "Are you thenanch adesirable son-in-law ?" Mariostfelt himself demolished and prostrated. His pride was in-rains; but his anger-strsamed like fire abovethe wreck.'He=yas astounded and at4 loss. ,-He knew not whether to retreat or go forward, his fair: enemy had taken him so muach:bsurprise: " Go, Monsieur Mariotjand forgetme. There is, no possibility4hat my feelings will change. SI refuse you for the best reason-in the, world. .I do not like eyout: Would you .wed a woman who makes this confession 2" - "'ou are jealous, perhaps ?" said Mariot, faintly. " There is your unpardonable vanity again. Lovers only are jealous, and I cannot in the na- ture-of things be jealous of a man whose pres- ence is irksome. It is time this interview ended. I wish you happiness with one more like you in heart. Adieu, sir." Mademoiselle Mignon arose, bowed ceremo- niously, that is coldly, and left Mariot alone, who, a moment.later, was heard hurrying through the hall to the street. A month after the events just recorded, at the close of a day which had been uncommonly fine, a man on horseback approached a succession of rugged hills and defiles in the vicinage of those extensive prairies lying along the Nebraska Riv- er for many miles, the favorite' hunting grounds of the dreaded Blackfeet. It would have puz- zled a hunter, even, to- have determined wheth- er the horseman was a white man or an Indian. Indeed he could not well merit the term white, his rough features being much burned by the ve- hement suns of the prairies. There was nothing very notable about his appearance. His horse was a strong, tough nag, chosen more for his powers of endurance than for speed or beauty ; while the rider and his belongings filled up the picture of a free trapper, very well provided for the practice of his vocation. He proceeded moderately and with much cir- cumspection, as if conscious that he was in a situation requiring constant vigilance. Soon he entered a valley almost destitute of vegetation, and at that hour gloomy as it was sterile. The trapper dismounted, after going the distance of an hundred rods or more, then turned to the right into a gully worn by a stream of water during the wet seasons, leading his .horse by the bridle. 'The way must have been well known to him, for he went forward with a confident step, though retaining his watchful deportment;like one resolutely determined not to be surprised by an enemy. For the next half hour he con- tinued to advance, frequently pausing a moment to listen. He stopped in a small basin or hol- low, shut in by trees and .rocks-a spot that might be easily overlooked by a thousand, men searching for a hiding place. Near the middle of the dingle, half-buried in wild shrubbery, there- was a hut made of sticks, andcovered with bark,' and which =might have escaped a less vigilant eye ;, toward that humble habitation the trapper directed his steps. He pushed open the door, and a start of surprise indicated that he had made a discovery unexpected and not wholly agreeable. A dusky figure reposing by' a fire that faintly glowed on the ground, sprang to his feet and drew his hunting-knife the instant the intruder looked in ; but seeing who had disturb- ed him, returned the weapon to its sheath, keep- ing his hand on the .handle, however, as if not altogether decided whether to assume a hostile attitude or not. "Ravenclaw !" exclaimed the trapper. "fBeavertaker P" said the other, in the guttural tones of the red 'man. '"Why do you come tothe hunting grounds of the Blackfoot ?" he asked, with a scowl of suspicion. "I come because my wife is a Blackfoot, and my home is with her people. Does it seem strange to my brother that the heart of Beaver- taker is heavy when he dwells in the wigwams of the pale faces?" ".What is this you say ? Are not your veins poisoned with the blood of the white man? Can you belong to the warlike Blackfoot, till you have bled away the venom of the pale-faces ? No, you will be but a woman among warriors, a child among men,", replied IRavenclaw,. dis- dainfully. "Your thoughts are sour, and your wgrds are bitter. Hear me, Ravenclaw. I have been among the white men and I found their hearts full of hatred; they drove me forth as if I had .been a worthless dog, fit only to hunger and die on the prairie. I shook my hatchet 'at them, and came away with my heart burning for ven- geance. I shouted the war-whoop of the brave Blackfoot nation, and turned my back on them. I said, I will go back to my adopted people, and tell them my wrongs, and ask them to lie in wait with 'me to take the scalps of my ene- mies. That is what I swore to do, and behold I am here." Ravenclaw gave a slight exclamation of ap- probation. " I came here to get news of my wife, and to unite myself to her people forever. But the heart of 1,avenclaw gives me no welcome, and he tells te nothing of my wife. I have no friends, no home, no nation. I will go and dwell in solitude with the wild beasts." " Some men have two faces and two tongues," said Ravenclaw. " They show one face to the white man, and another to the red; they talk * 4 page: 26-27[View Page 26-27] MF5P4T. with one tongue to the pale facet and with the gther to the Indian." "Iunderstand; you think I come to you with lie in my pouth, with a hollow heart and emptybauds. iut you shall sep." evayertaker called to his or e th beast c pe eo his side; he relayed hidp.gf his burden a4d turned hipi ,1op9 A package wylchhad h9n fsteed to the cpper, he carried into the hut and opened; it contained various articles valued by Indians, beads, ribbons, high-colored stuffs, smull mirrors, knives, etc. y An expression of contempt grew upon the Blackfoot's face. "These things Ihave brought from the distant wigwams of the pale-faces; let my brother take what ha liks, and the heart of Beavertaker will row light again," said the half-breed. Ryenclaw did op deig tp loo at the goods, his .wb pontracted threateningly. "What am I," he cried, in startling voice, that these pitifpl trifles should be offered me? 4i I a vain aquaw, tq covet such petty gew- gaws . You are not wise, Beavertaker, you are not wise; yon do not yet know the soul of Ra- venclaw. He wants no such foolery-he wants 140t his arms end his horse; more would be a burden to hinder his movements. You might dazzle the eyes of silly women with your gay wares, but the eyes of a true warrior can look at the sun without being dazzled. For this insult you deserve to die !" "'You are in bad temper, my brother. I will pgi p xmy goods and go in search of my wife, ind see if she is also my enemy." "Listen; when the white.man wishes to de- ceiyp the Indian, he commences giving him . presents, and he ends by cutting his throat. Wa- wr! it is these presents of worthless stuff that re destroying the red races. Foos are they 11 who accept presents .from the hands of the artful pale-face. Take them from my sight, lest I go mad and kill you ." Beaver bound his goods and placed the pack- age out of sight. "Yqu doubt me; but hear what I will tell yqu, pad doubt no longer. A large party of the race yop hate are at hand; they are going to' the mountains to trap, and they have brought many packs of goods .to buy peltries with. I will hea4 a party of Blachfoot warriors to sur- p-ise them."j "That is better ; but Ravenclaw always finds REDPATH. an enemy without a guide," returned the iddian, proudly., " Do you Jovger dgybt me ?" asked thy half- breed, calmly., "I believe you would destroy when it is your interest to destroy." "And I have another plan'to revenge myself on these people, who are robbing our hunting and trapping grounds of game," said Beaver- taker, in a suppressed voice. It "peak." " I will seek for him at the mention of whose name the white man trembles-Redpath !" ,edpath !" repeated Ravenclaw, with a searching glance at the half-breed. "Is the .name of Redpath strange to the ears of Ravenclaw .Has he not heard of his deed?, and rejoiced that there was one so during among the warriors of the mighty Dlackfeet ? Is he deaf to the fame of the most dreaded of the red men of his nation " "I know him not," replied Ravenclaw. "My brother's eyes are sharp; he can see a great distance, and he has a cunning under- standing to comprehend that which is hidden, and to know the secrets of his people," continued I3eavertaker, adroitly: "The tongue of Beavertaher is crafty in the use of words, and he goes after secrets like a ser- pent crawling through the grass. But let him beware; they who seek are sometimes found, they who would guide the vengeance of the great ?4onito sometimes direct the shaft into their own breasts,"- " It is dangerous then, to-". "'fo seek the trail of Redpath, or to invoke the thunders of his arm. He goes where he will, and strikes because he will; his secret will die with him. He will remain as he is, and no one will be able to boast and say 'I have seen him.' pepart in peace and be not curios g If you would live to eat the fissh of the buffaloes that will soon cover yonder prairies. Keep your tongue from speaking more than you know, and your ears from hearing too much." IRavenclaw spoke in a tone and manner that gave the half-breed a feeling of uneasiness that he coud not entirely conceal, aodof which he felt ashamed. "You ,9ubtless speak wisely, and is a way honorah to your-great nation. I llopeyou will aid me to strike a blew at our enemies; they are ascending the Nebraska, and will sao he in the mountains." You have just said that my eyes and ears- are open; they are-you have brought me no news." The countenance of Beavertaker evinced sur- prise. " My brother has been active, then; for it will be at least a week before their trail will pass this hut." "And what is a week's travel by those who ride loaded horses, and creep along like snails. There are Blackfeet braves that can journey that distance in two days, and feelno weariness. Our people :never sleep soundly when an ene- my is near." "Ravenclaw is called brave, a successful war- rior, and a good counsellor. Will he de angry if I ask where is the wigwam of the Redpath ?" The stately Indian darted a stem and.menac- ing look at the half breed. - " Son of the pale-face and the red," he retort- ed, in tones of authority mingled. with anger, "you have too much curiosity to be a warrior. What is Redpath to you? heis nought. He is an eagle upon tie mountains that stoops not from his lofty flight to mate with meaner birds. He makes a. swoop and fixes his talons with the speed of lightning; the next moment he is soaring to the sun, or perched iid his eyrie far, far up the inaccessible cliffs. -If you knew his lodge, if you could climb to his high nest, your breath of life would go out befo or moon. Son of the Frenchman and tIian woman, I can lead you-to the wigwam of lBed- path. By the soul of Monedo, Redpath will die as he has lived, and the eyes of the pale-face shall never look upon his grave," " Be it so, my brother. I spoke that I might be wiser." "Wiser ! My knowledge of Redpath is noth- ing. I know but his name and the fame of his- deeds. Be not'like the young and foolish who have no wisdom ; but profit by the examples of mighty warriors and conquering chiefs. Go; you will find her you seek with a band of hun- ters encamped yonder toward the sunset. Go, and be wary ; you see that your heart is not big toward the race we abhor." - Beavertaker-known to the reader as Gar- dette, at Westport-studied for a few Seconds by the fitful fire-light the calm and lofty features of Ravenclaw, then with a compelled feeling of re- spect, took, up his package of goods, placed it upon his horse, mounted, and 'rode toward the{ spot indicated by the haughty Indian. CHAPTER V. SnW MIsroRTUNES..BMPALL oBION'S SAND. IT has been stated that Brn observed that the youthful adventurer who .has twice passed before the reader's imagination, had glanced with some degree of interest at the hatchet that he found so singularly. Falling again in the rear of his band, after Buckeye's departure, he examined the weapon more particularly. It was- small, and finished with scrupulous neat- ness, smooth as 'the surface of a mirror. It seemed to have but one defect-the handle did not appear sufficiently tight ; and while notic- ing the fact, he discovered a piece of paper be- tween the same and the eye intb which it' was fitted. With the point'of his knife he drew out the paper, and .was astonished to find there was writing upon it, which he hastened to read. "You are closely and perseveringly watched by those who seek the ruin of your enterprise, and who will not hesitate to employ the' niost exceptionable means to ensure their purpose. Be wary, if you would escape- dangers pressing and imminent, and plots the most cunningly devised." " This is extraordinary," exclaimed Briod, when he had read the foregoing lines. "I am closely watched, and am exhorted to be wary.' Who wrote these words of warning ? I would give six months salary to know; they are traced -with a pencil, and ,by a practised hand, too. A plot ! What does that mean? It refers to a rival company,,clearly. Let me see. This was written a week ago, and I have been so stupid asnot to discover it. Two deathshave occurred -since that time-one last night, one the night before. But this is a strange way of communicating intelligence, and uncertain, withal, for had I not discovered the hatchet, it might have remained there and the paper with it, so all this good will would have been lost. Who will say that the prairies have not their bit -of romance ? But who comes 4 A'stranger, a white man, a hunter." The man who excited the last remark urged his horse to a gallop as he drew near ; in a few minutes he, was by Brion's side. - The partisan while affecting to regard his approach with in- difference, or as a common-place affair, was really studying his features closely, trying to recall when and under what circumstances he had met rhim.before; for it seemed to him that this was not their first meeting. Having described oth- page: 28-29[View Page 28-29] 2HBDPATIL 29 'Ii ers of his calling,: we. have no inclination to' inflict useless items of dress and outfit, while his person and beaingjpresented nothing very remarkable., HisfacetWas not easy to read,; but might have passed very well for an honest one,,mathed neither by 'genius nor uncommon. tact. Hegaluted Brion familiarly, who returned his salutation with civility. The latter's wish was to know Whether the new comer wi inthe employ'of a6rival company;, it was a natural de- sire. He approached the subject with caution, and his- meaiiig without declaring-it directly, was quickly understood., "My -name," said the trapper, "isDerelle, and my business you can easily guess." "Yes," said Brion. - 'I "TV relieve you from any suspicion that you may feel, I will inform you that I am not in the employ of any fur company, nor attached to a brigade of trappers." "A free trapper?"', " Thank fortune, yes. I want my liberty. I should not feel like a man if I were under anoth- er's control. Give me the mountains and prai- ries, and lakes and"rivers, with nothing but my horse and my own will to guide me, and I am happy. Human authority galls me, or rather would gall me, were I to submit to it. 0I never could be-a slave after having breathed the air of freedom in a country reaching from sea to sea; and provided by nature with enough to supply the simple necessities of man." - " You discourselike one to the wilderness born and bred," said the partisan. " That is true. I was born on the border, and have been a rover since a boy. The ways of civilized life in great cities, and busy towns, do not please such as I. The noise of machinery, the smoke of crowded habitations and the artifi- 'cialities of modern usages, repel me and make' me more in love with my manner of life," ad- ded Dorelle. "Where have I heard that voice ?" queried Brion. "Have you crossed any Indian trail?" he asked.. "Yes, of a large body." - "Of what nation?" "The-most hostile and most dangerous-the Blackfoot." " Which.way did the trail tend ?" "-Off in that direction to our left." "Consequently; to avoid them.-" "You must keep lose to the mountains one the right." The partisan did not immediately reply; he reflected. " That would seem like rushing into danger. The Blackfeet are wont to lie in wait in yon- der defiles at the base of the mountains," he re- marked, at length, in a careless tone. f 'I know it ; but it would appear from the direction of the trail, that they have changed their tactics."' " That is avery reasonable conclusion," quoth Brion. " To-morrow I must think about chang- ing our course." "It would be prudent ; but a man of expe- rience like you, needs no advice." ' Here are my men," said the partisan, as they came up with the rear of that band. " Make yourself at home with them." With these words he spurred forward, and was soon in advance of the foremost of the party, mounting every eminence, crossing every brook, and examining the ground where it was soft enough to yield to the pressure of human feet. While thus actively engaged in reconnoitering, his thoughts were not wholly engrossed with his employment ; they wandered back to Westport, to linger about the; spot where he had seen Mig- non. The clattering of horses' feet recalled his mind to the rough region of reality where his corporeal substance was. " You see we have overtaken you, captain," said a voice. Brion raised his eyes and perceived several of the more thoughtless young men of-his band, of whom Headley was the leading spirit. " This is imprudent," exclaimed Brion, very sharply. " You had orders not to leave the main body." "And why is it imprudent ?" asked Headley, haughtily, for he liked not the tone of command which the partisan assumed. " It is imprudent, in the first place, because you had my orders to remain with the brigade, and in: the next, for the reason that a party of Blackfeet are lurking in the vicinity," said the mountaineer, firmly.- " 0, is that all?" exclaimed Headley, with a derisive laugh, in which his companions joined. "That is suffcient; I order you to return instantly," rejoined Brion, with a dignified and authoritative air. "Are we then under martial discipline ?" asked Ueadley,adgrily. "You are under my orders, and when I abuse my power,,there will be time enough to rebel. It is my duty to use my authority wheti the gen- eral safety is concerned ; therefore, go back." Three of the refractory . spirits reluctantly turned and sullenly rode toward the brigade, which was about two miles in the rear, while Headley and two others obstinately kept on, dis- regarding orders. " Men, you will regret this I" exclaimed Brion, in a voice free from anger or harshness, yet de- cided and full of meaning. " We will see, we will see 1" retorted Headley, biting his nether lip with vexation. The partisan's frank and manly face grew cloudy. " These green hands," he muttered to himself, "will bring misfortune upon our enterprise. And I am responsible for all that happens. I was a fool to accept this post, but I will be obeyed 1" The mountaineer continued his investigations several hours with all that tact and skill expe- rience had taught him. He was thus busied when he was joined by Buckeye, whose presence at that moment was desirable, as. Brion felt the need of a friend on whom he could rely. They rode on side by side, the latter relating what had passed between him and Headley. -' " There he is, yonder, waiting for the band to come up," said Buckeye. . "And a few yards before him is one of his foolhardy companions." The partisan'and. Buckeye soon reached the, spot where Headley was sitting. "Where are your friends ?" "If you have eyes, you will see one of them, yonder, seated 4n a rock," he replied. "And the other?" " Is still further ahead, on the other side of the ridge."- " Very well; you 'may consider yourself dis- missed from the employment of the American Fur Company, Mr. Headley. From this mo- ment you are at liberty to go where you please." "What do you say I" cried Headley, disa- greeably astonished. Brion made no answer, and riding on, repeated the same words to the next man, who attempted to stammer forth excuses whichthe partisan did not wait to hear. When he reached the top of the ridge spoken of by Headley, he looked for the third transgressor, whose name was Stringer; but Stringer was not visible. Buckeye hurried forward and descended the slope at a gallop. Before ten minutes had elaps- ed, he called to Brion to come on as fast aS pos- sible. ° Alarmed by the peculiar tones of Buck- eye's voice, the mountaineer struck the spurs into his horse and dashed down the ridge. He found the trapper leaning over the pommel of his saddle, with pale cheeks and dilated eyes. Upon the ground at the fore feet of Flash, was stretched the unfortunate Stringer ; he was lying on his back, the blood had receded from his face, his lips were white, and he was gasping in the last extremity. Brion sprang from his horse, but the man was dead before he reached him. The mountaineers gazed at the corpse with feelings of indescribable awe. There was some- thing crushing in the thought that a man who a moment since was full of life and youthful fire, was now but a clod, powerless, inert. Come in what form he will, death takes men by surprise ; he arrives too soon-is always grind and terrible. Let him come in sudden- ness and mystery, when mortals have no intima- tion of his 'approach, taking one whose life seems good for many years, and he is doubly fearful. Brion and"Buckeye were still contemplating the yet warm body, when Headley and his com- rade came up ; they had heard the trapper's call to Brion, and were suspicious that something strange had occurred. Drawing near with downcast, anxious looks, they beheld the spec- tacle that kept the tongues of the mountaineers mute. Headley was astounded ; his visage grew as pallid as the ashy features of Stringer. He allowed the bridle rein to fall from his grasp, and with glassy eyes and parted lips, stared at the stiffening body of hitn who a few minutes ago was riding -gaily'at'his side. An inexplica- ble dread fastened upon his heart ; an indefina- ble trembling seized his limbs. He seemed to see an - unknown danger approaching in circles that every instant lessened their diameter.- In the ghastly face of Stringer he fancied he saw his own fate. Like him he should be stricken by an unknown dart, and like him be gazed at by eyes dilated with terror; like him be buried on the prairies and left to eternal solitude. Brion gave him a reproachful look-a look which accused him of being an accessory to his comrade's death. "Do you see this ?" said the partisan, when the silence had become oppressive. Headley made an affirmative sign. "And do you remember that I warned you of the danger of leaving the'party ?" continued the captain, with cold severity. The Missourian sat motionless in his saddle. 28 nEDPATg. page: 30-31[View Page 30-31] s4 RWAE. 3 "You claim some knowledge of surgery. -Do you wish to examine this body ?" resumed Brion. Headley shook his head like one who wishes to say, " I have had enough of that; it is of no use." Buckeye was sitting calmly upon his horse ; he now darted a meaning glance at Headley from under his heavy brows; it needed no in- terpreter-,-he undergood its signification perfect- ly ; it asked him if he' was satisfied i if he be- lieved there were others who knew as maeh as he did. "Have you an explanation to offer ?" added the partisan., "No," replied Headley, "I have nothing to say." " Not so with me," said Buckeye. "I have a few words to say, which may perhaps make our wise friend from Missouri a trifle wiser-- if that's possible. I'm prettyssartin that my opinion on many pints isn't worth a charge of powder ; but what I know, I'm sure of. Now, sir, (looking at Headley), if you want to discover whether Stringer died of a disease of the head or heart, you shall be gratified." Then addressing Brion : " I said I had a secret to tell you, to-morrow, but seeing what's happened, I wont keep it any longer, for there'll never be a better time." To Headley again: "Now, sir, examine Stringer's head." The Missourian dismounted, and resting one knee on the ground, lifted $trieger's head, and holding it with the palnQf his left hand,scruti- nized it closely. I see nothing," he, affirmed. "Part the hair just above his right aer, and you will find the head of a steel arrow driven through the skull into the brain," said Buceee. "It is so," exclaimed Headley. "And yet there is no blood to indicate a mor- tal wound," said Brion. "The hair is saturatedvery little underneath, newt the skin," replied Headley; "but the fact that there is no hemorrhage is easily accounted for. The arrow-head is not much large] than a lady's bodkin, and makes but a mere puncture in the skin; -leing driven with great, force it penetrates deeply into the brain, causing instant paralysis of all the vital fnetions." , " That certainly seems to be an arrowheadd" said Headley's friend, "But where is the shaft ?" " Look once more," added Buckeye. Readley passed the point of a penknife into the scarcely perceptible wound, feeling carefully over the steel surface. " It may be so contrived," he said, when he had reflected a moment, " that the shaft could be detached, after driving the point to its fatal des- tination," " Or broken off," suggested Headley's friend. " And the shaft, what becomes of that ?" que- ried Brion, looking at Buckeye. " One thing's sartin; it isn't to be seen in this case, and it was so in the other too; so we can form what opinion appears most nat'ral. I dare say the cunnin' reptile as did this, broke off the shaft and carried it away, as an act of bravado, as well as to mystify and make things look un- accountable." " I will see if he comes and goes without a trail," said Brion, throwing the bridle rein to Buckeye. " Remain just where you are, men, that no new track may be made," he added, commenc- ing a close Investigation of the ground, which continued until the entire party came up. The, foremost, hearing what had happened, commu- nicated it to those next to them, and the news ran quickly from mouth to mouth until all were in possession of it. While those in the rear were pressing to the scene of the catastrophe, the partisan approached Buckeye, and said, in a low tone : " I wish you to watch the stranger who joined us to-day. Keep your eyes on him when he looks at Stringer's body, and is hearing the circum- stances that attended his death." The trapper made a sign that he would do so. Dorelle was in no hurry, being the last to ap- proach the corpse. When he beheld the white ,and rigid Face, he shuddered and drew back, as if the spectacle was more shocking than he had anticipated. Buckeye observed him closely while the story of the steel-arrow was being told by those who had first reached the spot. That it produced in his mind feelings of unfeigned astonishment, the trapper did not doubt, his de- meanor attesting'it in every natural way. There' was now. ample subject for conversa- tiou among the trappers, young and old, confess- ing the same interest, the same awe. Stringer was buried as his. companions had been, the mountaineers. resuming their long and weary march with saddened :hearts and clouded-faces, pondering darkly on the fate of Stringer, ask- 'ng whose turn would come next, eeh mutually sawing: "It may he me." Teadley, on whop the incident of the day head made a deep impression, rode up to llrion the, moment an opportunity offered whey he could address him alone. " I owe you en apology,,captain," he said, "for my folly, and I hope you will he disposed to overlook what has passed. I. acknowledge that I merited reproach, and the death of String- er is a rebuke that will cause me sorrow so long as I live." "I restore you to your place, Mr. Headley, and your friend, too ; and will attribute your conduct to' thoughtlessness, rather than obsti- nacy," replied the partisan, with that franknes that characterized him. Headley thanked him and hastened to inform his refractory companion of the result of his apology. Brion ordered a halt in the afternoon, for the purpose of hunting the buffalo, having killed but one since leaving fort Laramie. A few of the most skilful hunters were sent out, the re- mainder of the band being strictly enjoined to keep within certain precincts ; an injunction that the leader had no difficulty in enforcing, seh a dread of their mysterious enemy had fallen on them. The hunt not proving successful, it was resolved to continue it during the next day; therefore their encampment was made to assume a more permanent appearance. Being in a dan- gerous neighborhood, a corral was built for the horses, and various precautionary measures were men: As the night drew on, Brion gbaerved that many of the men grew anxious, even some of the veterans; so much had the fate of Strigger sp'ected them. Within the corral, which was considerable large, a smaller enclosure was ,made by placing the trunks of cottoti-woods horison- tally on the ground ones upon the other, until they reached as high as the breast of man of ordinary height. Behind that shelter they hop- ed to escape the skill of their inexplicable adver - sary. We must, however, except ths prgsan .d Buckeye from tho number who entertained the idea of passing the night behind such a shel- ter; he had other thoughts.- "look," said he to Buckeye, "the sa is sinking majestically upon the prairies; it is not easy to. dispel the illusion that it will gotrest on this m hty .level, instead f pasug to another . hemisphere to illumi mte Qther gertals-to ahie. on other cities and peoples, mountains, lakes And rivers" "That was my owe thought," replied the other; " but it woujd save been .morally, a4- possible for a ,rpugh old feller like me to ex- press it in such a way. RUman creturs may he constituted pretty ncar alikq, cap'n, as to the real men, but we haven't all the same fakilty of .expressiop. .Now that uat'rally reminds me of death, when the sun of life seems to he going down into the airtb, so to speak, to be buried and extinguished 'forever. To all appearance, what there is of sueh s you end I ceases to he, is put into the ground to be compounded again with theeternal elements, to play its part in otl- er forss, tilltime shall be no longer. But cap'n, there may be sythiu' that rises like the sun, like it to shine forever in another region." " God knows how fervently I hope so ," ex- claimed Brion, " To believe that Stringer has a Consciousness at this moment, like yours and mine, as full, as perfect, would almost console one for his death ; nay, it would quite." "Poor Stringer !" sighed Buckeye. "I don't know whether to say poor Stringer or not !" said hirion, impressively, looking up sol- emnly into the cloudless sky. " By heavens, he may be better off at this instant than you or I. I sometimes wish that the arrowaof Redpath might enter my own brain, and thus dismiss me from care and pain." "Pain and care ! what pain and care should one like yot have, cap'n ? perhaps you lost your heart at Westport ?" rejoined Buckeye, The paltisa blushed-,-sn assertion that may perhaps appear well nigh incredible to the read- er i but it has been proved numeberless times that the man who em faae a eatery or anra- dian in his wersp int, ls the ability to push when agairs of the hemyt pre 4iscourse4 of, and pointed allusions ma.de. "If that be trtle, she who foun4 .it, found nothing wofth keeping, T fear,'heanswered. ",nm hog4s 0one,?'a m, honest one i" said buckeye. "You are getting slang to fast, my friend. I have not yet confessed to the charge you were pleased to pak." The trapper declared that tp love fair maiden was not to tran gsess laws; frine or human, " The men are gloomy,"spd Brion, abruptly. "'Tis mt raeap'n after w4ats happened. They ceg's eJp thiekipg that at the end of three months, if things go 4n in thisway, there wont 3;1 1 i" page: 32-33[View Page 32-33] 82 REDPATH. be many of them left. Each one says, 'I, too, may wake up some mornin' and find a steel ar- row in my head.' Now sich' an idea as that, when it fairly -gets possession of a seller's mind, can't be' considered very cheerin', accordin' to my view of matters gin'rally, though you may have different notions, bein' better eddicated." "By my faith !" exclaimed the partisan, "you are about right ; the idea of being dogged by a single enemy, and picked off one by one at his leisure is not pleasant. So far as the mere fact of dying is concerned, one could not choose an easier death; but people seldom reach that pe- riod when they are willing to submit to even the easiest death that can be contrived. The love of life is strong,and follows one alike through happiness and misery. Come now, good Buck- eye, tell me if you are yourself ready to offer your head to the fatal skill of Redpath?" "'By the beard of Joe Smith, noi I prefer to keep my upper story unbroken, and in a condi- tion to be useful. You forget that I have a friend to provide for ?" "A friend ?" "Yes, and a good one too ; there he stands, yonder,-eating grass like Nebuchadnezzar." " 0, you mean Flash !" ",Yes, Flash-a creetur that has all thebetter qualities of the human species, with a great deal more speed." "He is certainly swift of -foot," said -Brion, with a smile. ".The name of Redpath has'often been men- tioned between you and I, and you once did me the favor to ask my opinion consarnin' him; now I want to put the same question to you, for I've observed that you've been non-committal and on the'fence, as 'twere, retpectin'*him."- "I will be very frank, Buckeye, and keep' nothing-from you. That we are followed by a vengeful enemy, is indisputable; that this en- emy is cunning beyond anyI ever encountered, I also freely'admit;- but if it be the famedBlack- foot chief called Redpath,' I have no' means whatever of knowing. Familiar as the name 'of Redpath is to me I will avow to you that have, from the first, been inclined to consider himi but the creation of some wonder-lovingbrain." "You feel positifel f sai'tin that three of your party have been killed," said Buckeye, sarcasti- cally, rather, for him.' The partisan answered in the affirmative, but added that they might have been killed; not by one savage, but possibly by'three.' " That isn't altogether probable ; a party of three would have more difkilty in concealing their trail than one, as you'll understand at once, when you come to think of it., Agin; this sort of thing is done by one who has served a long apprenticeship at it, so to speak ; otherwise he couldn't have acquired that awful sartinty that charaktarizes him. Depend on't, it's done by a- riptile as has follered it for months, perhaps for years, growin' more and more acute, cunnin' and terrible." " Your reasoning is just; this marvellous act of approaching an encampment, this wondrous power of striking a victim with a precision that is deadly, and retreating without leaving trail or other sign than a dead body,,is really startling, and well nigh staggers belief; but I am resolved to solve the apparently inexplicable mystery." "Beware !" exclaimed the trapper, "beware what you do !" " What! does a brave man as I have consid- ered you to be, hold a single savage-armed, as it would seem, with a bow and arrow, in such dread ?" said the partisan. " Tell me who and where my enemy is, and I am not afraid to meet him ; but it is embar- rassin', to say the least, to seek a riptile who has the fakilty of makin' hisself invisible, who walks round ye without makin' anytrack, who kills ye afore you know he's near, who's off afore you've gasped away the breath of life. Where'll you go to find him? Will it be east or west, north or south,' this way or that ? You can't tell, because you don't know when you've found him ? What assurance have ye that he wont see you first ?" ' "There are difficulties to be considered, and obstacles to surmount, but courage and a strong will can accomplish what, at first thought, ap- pears impossible," returned Briot, firmly. " If courage and a strong will can do so much, cap'n, why don't they keep the creetur away from the camp-fires at night? Why don't cout- age and a strong will prevent .him from killin' your men?" Buckeye looked triumphantly at the partisan, who listened with interest to the development of the trapper's feelings, which he was internally, determined he should lay bare. " Until to-day, we have had but little warning of the presence'"of such a foe.- The singular ab- sence of wounds in the two first cases let- some doubt on the mind in regard to the causf their, death, and it is only a few hours since the mys- REDPATH. tery was cleared up. I shall now use every pre caution to prevent the recurrence of similar vis itations, that experience and prudence can de vise; but it is a humiliating thought that seventh men are forced to extraordinary measures fo protection against a singlesavage arm ; it shame me, Buckeye, and makes me doubt that I hav passed ten years in the mountains, where dan gers are thick, and skill is indispensable. If] do not put a stop to this, the name of Ben Brion will cease to be quoted as a brave and sagacious man, fit to command in the mos trying emergencies." " Don't lay it so much to heart, for you ain without witnesses that you've been prudent as a human being' could be, inder the circumstances Human foresight can't foresee everything." "If matters progress as they have begun, my witnesses will be dumb ones," said Brion, with a smile. ,, "And deaf, too," quoth Buckeye. "I think I may trust you ?" resumed the partisan. " You can't tell till you try me," returned the trapper, drily. "I wish to tell you-.--move this way a little, the very person I was going to speak of is watch- ing us-that I am suspicious, of the good faith of this stranger, Dorelle. If you were to ask my reasons, I am very sure I should :not be able to give them. I shall watch;him." "I'll take him in hand, too, 'cap'u, andsee what I can make of him. If I discover, mischief in him, he'd better be among the Blaekfeet or the Apaches," said;Buckeye, determinedly.-, : " He isto be depended 'on; if ever mani-was trustworthy," said Brion to himself,;as he walk-, ed about the encampment to see if all had been done according to his orders ; the remark refer- red to the trapper. CHAPTER VI. GOLDI-HUNTLNG IS TALKRDJ OF., EVENING name., The hunters and trappers were gatheredabout'the eamp-fires in -groups, cooking their supper,:discussing the alhengms. ing 'suject of theday. Each in, turn gave his opinion, hazarded a conjectureor recited some startling tale, of :Indian' cunning and eruelty4 The youn-g men of the band had less'to saythanu usual; 'their"ardor was cooled; theyfervently wishedthetselves within thepale of civilization agaid, no longer finding fault at the lack of in' 33 - cident that attended their march. The faces of Stringer, Minten and, Townsend were constant- ly before them, reviving and keeping vivid'the y mystery of their death, the awful suddenness of r their departure. s "It would appear," said Headley, "that we e are destined to fall by the wayside, one at a - time. We shall mark each day's journey by a I grave." " That is true," responded. a young man by - the name of 'Conroy, who but two days before t had complained of the monotony of their jour- ney, and its paucity of adventure. t "I wonder," resumed Headley, as if talking to s himself, "if, we were hired for the purpose of - being shot in-the head with a steel-arrow ?" The query, though addressed to no one in par- ticular, caught like' a train of powder, just as it was intended. The short but expressive mono- syllable "Noo," made the .circuit of the group in an instant. " That is my own opinion," added Headley. "I have from the first, entertained the idea, that our services were engaged to trap and hunt." " In course," said Conroy, sullenly. "But it's too late, now, I, suppose, t ! ve ourselves. Seeing, we must all succumb to the foul fiend that dogs us, sooner or later, I expect we must make the best of it.. It would be well, however, to suggest to the captain to dig a grave every night, so that our march wont be delayed in the morning. We could then look in each other's faces andseem to realize that one of us is actually tremblingon the boundary of the 'other world." "God save me from such a realization for many a year!" exclaimed Conroy, glancing around uneasily. '" 0, it is an easy-r death," added Headley, adroitly,:knowing well how to excite the fears of his, comrades., "If youacovet such a fate, seek it; but it flls me with unspeakable dread!" cried Conroy, with "It is so sudden, that one has no chance to repent,"paid'Porelle, whohad joined the group. The young $rappers looked encouragingly at their new ally. t aI wish weucould change our route so as to leavetthisraccursed trail !" protest Readley, wityinfreasig boldness. ":I had tthoaught" added Dorele, artfully, "that you were one of the partners, and not an employee?" 4 page: 34-35[View Page 34-35] B t PATH. 85 RiiMA'fD. " 0 no, sir. 1m uanderthe ore of Beni.B on !" said Headley, with afadone fedgh. " Indeed' that is singsi ! I'vehad my sus- pieions that folit uditing wdsritia real object of this expedition,"*added Dorelle. "What other object could- theft be'iii fieW t' interrogated Headley, snapping' eagesyf at the bait florelie had tlifwit out. "It isn't expedient for a man to tell his thoughts always ; Bit the iaoidedt I saw you this morning, I said to-myself, 'thiS dian has a higher object than' pelfries, ahead.' " The attention of the- eadley cliqte waS fixed iqiringly upon Threlle. "Foudre ! yeaar drceiviag" ine; confess' now, that you have hearf'd ' the discovery of gold in the rrodntains ?" - The Missourta's eyeS flashled'witha ekpeea- tioi. "Speak low, Wietsleut l orelie, spoak lot", he exclaimed, earnestly. "IFknew I was right," asserted:DOrelle, afect- ing to be elated at his farightedees. . "'You are wrong, sir; we have heard nothing of the discovery to which you refer; butyout see here a seoreof:goodfellows, tradyfM 'aty enter- prise that promises well; aid will' takethem out of this infertal gregi f yoi" "Not so o iSt,emysferd" I'if yott-has' dot heard of the new gold rgl n, Wir'dtlf dhi I retita in'silent. Ma-foit!Why ifttldidassle yen with tales of areg is sassltig'itriachness all the- wealth of oriental tkistgs; it would. fill yat' dreams with esctra pttu ieouigttuties; and destroy your peace when waking." 'You excite my curiosity tothe- highestrole- g , Monsieur DOrelleh TMme oftii landof yellow dust. Is it a thing known tA I, of is'iV at seems, faitflly iept'bby aflM 'V' aI is know' onlyto a aeetinbnumnber of French voyageurs and hunters, whokeep i tsna" ciealy. 1t was onlyle ida ht t Igof oS- se gng'of it." t Headley rubbed his forehead and flduted abeut'teondly - "Will ou a155nie'ttSolfaz Enint tentior.of taking thismhnport ratbt r'y du own advantage?" he inquired. ! Self intent, I bel0ei6 sppermtfots in Ihe h aaaa indpwth ery' feW 00ption t : ke others, I am striving for aImig; itklsg'dl gently with my hasa& and h s'ar5P 'wac plis mypurpoesi Wol' iS hdty be' attral thlI should think much of what I have berS' telling yod ? You will.say yes, like a reasonable tan, ant be tight, too, for I have thought of this sub- ject, day and night, for weeks. There are diffi- culties td conquest, obstacles, to surmount, da, gets to meet ; bit uen of courage, determine' tion and perseverance can overcome all. What is there that man eaniot do when, the motive ir powerful and the will strong ? These mines are situated in a dangerous neighborhood, farther' frees us than the ground already travelled, in a different direction from our present route, through the countries of savage nations-the ttahs, the Navajoes, the Pimos, the Maricopos, and lastly, the famous Apaches." A c tltd of disappointment passed over Head- Ay's face the distance and danger startled him and depressed his hopes. " You ssare speaking of that region lying, be. tween New Msexico and the Great Basin-th0 country of an extinct nation-the Aztec?" he added. . Yet, the land of the ancient Aztec, traces of kyhose art and industry yet remain." "Ha ndyou ever been thefe, Mods. Dorelle " "I have passed months there; traversed its vales s and ruountains, seen its rivers, gazed with awe upon the CasS'Monttaneula" " 1ifngined that was a fabulous'fabric, exist- ing in the"'mands'of eteduloul people." "Ah, ny friend, you see before you a man, who has actually seen the Casa Morttazuza---a. mighty, btt still- grauld- ris, where, the gitOt king; whose{name is yet spoken with ftveenk by thb atve, once dwelt- irk barbri' splendor.. The sight of that crumbling edidfe, which-seems: to connect the past with, the present; produced 4msotions which I cannot describe. It brought to my vlsio the phantomipant, venerable yet grim, grey yet gloomy,: silent yet speakltg alIan- guage not to be misiaterpreted,.telling of en- joyments gone, glory departed, power decayed." Dorelle spoke with apparent' enthusiasm, and was now the central point of attraction to the , wondering-group. The niet gathered round him as if heweke an oracle, tilocking, the past as well arlaying open-the-fatire. Onewho has the 6 faculty of making others believe that he has ieard morejseen more, and k towu5nrerthan his a auditri; aill always stad, ine there estimatlet, r like Sai among the prohs. Thus sIt. was ' with Mousieur Dorelle; he was, the hero of st ifn;the marvel of the inexpeteIned a d5sank ine, . ewho-sat that night at the camp4fir'of he "A vast region of ruins and hidden wealth is that country," added Dorelle." The treasures of an extinct race are concealed ingeniously be- neath walls now crumbling, and buried in earth, now overgrown with rank w9eds, with the mez- quit, the parasitic vine, the d sage, and the dwarf pine. Foudre t it setsmy blood in a hot fever to think of it. A few hardy, adventurous men, a little faith, with boldness.and persever- ance, wpuld suffice to acquire those riches. I have sought such persons, but* upon my honor, messieurs, I cannot find them; or rather I can- not make them have confidence in the treasures of that country." "You shall soon cease to complain, Monsieur Dorelle 1" cried Headley, looking at his friends. " Here are those who have not only faith but resolution. Discontented with their present cir- cumstances, they wait but opportunity to change their course and their prospects. Tell me, sir, can the dangers you refbr to be greater than that strange fatality that now follows in our trail like the angel of death, transfixing one and ano- ther with his dart ?" A visible tremor shook Dorelle's person. "Not half so fearful," he replied, in a voice sunken almost to a whisper. "I can conceive of nothing more diabolical than the systematic kill- ing of this savage or devil, or whatever he may chance to be. Being naturally superstitious, I acknowledge that I have much difficulty in per- suading myself that this pathless, trackless power is human. Ah, messieurs, they may call him Redpath, if they will, but to me he is a demon." "That's what I say !" exclaimed Conroy, striking his right knee violently with the corres- ponding hand, to give proper energy to his words. "And I, also," said Loretto, a. Mexican, and, Violett, a Creole, and half a dozen others- "This is gratifying !" exclaimed Dorelle. "I expected'to. become an object of ridicule among you, after°making- such an avowal; but I am. agreeably disappoiritede I ai *a catholic, mess- sieurs, a staunch believer-in the devil, and that the devil' sometimes assists hit instruments, i the flesh." "No doubt of it ," mutteined Loretto, cfitsn g himself. "My lads" said eadley, what'say you to turning our footsteps toward' Gilt eIve' in search of treasure?" "I care not whither we go, providing we but change our course," responded Conroy, and several others. "'Will you lead us there, if we can enlist enough in our-interest to make the expedition promising ?" asked the Missourian, again turn- ing to Dorelle. " Gladly 1" he answered, emphatically. " Who will go ? who will go ?" cried Headley, with enthusiastic eagerness. "'Come, let those who will go, speak-and speak in earnest I" Ten persons, comprising all in the group, in- stantly signified their willingness to follow Do- relle, and desert Brion. " Warn them to be cautions, and not let their intentions be known," whispered Dorelle to the Missourian, who immediately gave instructions to that effect, which they promised to observe. ",One thing we have overlooked; we need an outfit to undertake such a long and trying expe- dition ; all these things around us, we must bear in mind, belong to the American Fur Company, and not to us." "I can assist you somewhat in regard to that," said Dorelle. "I have a cache, fortunately, pro- vided for this very object." " If we were not where we are, I should cry three cheers for Monsieur Dorelle,"' said Head- ley, joyfully. "Now, my friends, fortune and adventure are before us," he added, with an en- thusiasm he did not attempt to disguise, and which his companions shared. Buckeye, during this conversation, was sleep- ing (or seemed' to be) on a pile of packs and saddles, a few yards distant; his proximity was either not known or not cared for. Flash ap. broached his-master, and smelled round him, as if to assure himfelt that he was there, and his footsteps had' the effect to- arouse him. He arose to his elbow, rubbed his eyes, then spoke to hi horse, and finally walked to another part of the qncamptisent Brion, meantime, had left the corral, having gIlen such directions as he deemed necessary for the efety of all. The fatality attending his mrch, weighed heavily upon his mind. As cap. gaa, orparisa l he was responsible for the safe. couridiefte;party n',the trapping grounds. Theft*ere-accidents and contingencies against which he could not guard' but how should he m it appi thus'to his employers? Would noit hisIbadership be faulted by those whosepay' he received! T Woultheynot call his courage dt perspiea lty1n question, when it was kaown 'that'Itheir enterprise was' iii danger of total fail- page: 36-37[View Page 36-37] REDPATH. 37 36 R~prATH. ure through the agency of a single savage, arm- ed, as it would seem, with a bow and arrow? The partisan was ready to pluck out his hair with vexation. As he had stated t9 Buckeye, he was mortified and humiliated beyond mea- sure. It made his cheeks redden with shame to anticipate, even, being thoughtweak and pusil- lanimous. He believed it would certainly be said that he was wanting in energy, promptness and foresight. What a thing to be said of Ben Brion-a man who had been on the trail ever since he left school, a mere boy ! He paced slowly about the encampment, far enough from it not to be seen. "Perchance," he said, to himself, "my own brain may be pierced by the shaft of this secret foe. Be it thus ; I alone will expose myself to his aim this night. If he, has the temerity to approach one whose eyes are quick to trace a trail, and whose ears are educated ,to hear an enemy, let him look to it; he may perhaps re- gret his boldness! Ah, I am forgetting his fatal skill, his deadly cunning !" The partisan sighed, and thought of Mignon. " It might have been-itmight heve been !" he added, in a low tone, that savored much of sadness. What it was that "might have been" he did not say, but instantly shaking off his dreaminess, began to act the keen and watchful scout, a thing which a sojourn of over, ten years in the mountains had rendered easy, ,n4 which, hitherto, had been attended with a kind of plea- sure ; but, this was before he met Mignon, and lost his heart, since which event he. had experi- euced less happiness in the practice of his wan- dering trade., Mignon followed him everywhere; Mignon was, tireless in pursuing hin; Mignon was with him in his dresins; she was fair but eyer present spirit, that could not be laid. The realization of all this revealed the moun- taineer to himself in a new light. He had not supposed it quite possible;thahetagpgdbe capti- vated by a pretty fage, and so enslaved by the. charming conqueror; it was a new revelation,, an hitherto unread page in i4 ownaracter, He believed his passion hqppeis, andeot:94ny hopeless but fooligh, extremely., ,He didnot ex. peet to see Mignon agnin an4.it was ngagess tp cherish her resembinnc sp fondy. ,Although reflpetigps likthes9w i, deeming. through Brion's brain,,it did notdyertli fsom his duty; he kept his daggeroug*lgils VO fir nesp and skill, exposing Ihel thusvolutarily to be faithful to his trust, and save those under his direction. Men are apt to think soberly and rationally in the silence and quietude of night, and it was thus with the partisan. He asked what or who it was that he feared; or, more properly, that threatened the destruction ofhis trappers and hunters. He had heard the name of Redpath spoken often in the mountains, while encamped by lonely streams and distant soli- tudes ; sturdy veterans had recounted his deeds, while friendly Indians told of his cunning, attri' buting hissuccess to the interposition of Ma- chinito-the bad spirit; but how much of this did he credit? What had happened under his own observation to prove that these tales were not without foundation; that there was really truth in what mountain rumor had been telling so long in the defiles and passes? Brion consid- ered the subject from various points, concluding this ordeal of self-examination by confessing a belief in Redpath. It was midnight when he reached that ultimatum. The stillness of the night had remained unbroken, save by the bark of the prairie dog, or the howl of the wolf- those constant attendants of the mountaineer in his lengthened pilgrimages across a mighty coun- try ; where, in the revelations of yearsPsman cities are to rise, and the genius of civihation is to walk with foot untiring-. The partisan stood with his head thrown for- ward, all his senses awake to detect the slightest sound. An owl emitted its ominous cry, which, echo caught and prolonged in a series of mourn- ful wailings, which died away in the valleys and far-off passes. "Ah !" exclaimed Brion, without changing his position. He waited for something-apparently the re- petition of the cry,-but it came'not. He cast his eyes toirard the encampmertt; the -moon- beadis Wereelying tranquilly upon it ; the stars twinkled overhead serenely, as if bidding the weary to forget care and sleep. Brions attention was yet fixed on the en- campruent, when- oksaw a man leaving the car- rol.. Had he walked ont boldly and carelessly, the :paitisa's Suspicions would not have been' aroused; but he-stole outas a thief might leave the scene of his depredations. "Monest men 4p pot move in that way," mut- tered Brion.. At that momept the owl -hooted again, more logd aut4auily ta before.. Clear of the cor- ral, the man advanced cautiously toward the spot where the mountaineer was. standing ; the latter instantly changed his position, screening himself behind the trunk of a cypress. It was Dorelle who approached, as Brion very 'soon discovered. "Yes, Monsieur Dorelle, you are the one I intended to watch," thought the hunter, as the Frenchman passed his hiding-place. Brion fol- lowed him toward the Wind River range, from the margin of the prairie upon which his camp had been pitched, into a tract of country cut up by gulleys, broken by sharp hills, covered with pinon, stunted oaks and aspen. Dorelle stopped and remained motionless for several minutes. Presently the owl hooted ; Dorelle barked like a prairie dog, and went on. The cry of the owl came from a canon, not far beyond ; it was toward the canon that Dorelle hastened. "Now," mused Brion, " we will learn what this signalizing is for." The ground between them and the canon was soon traversed. Dorelle barked again, and the owl hooted but a few paces from him. " Is it you, Gardette ?" asked Dorelle. "It is I, Monsieur Mariot," replied Gar- dette, or Beavertaker, as we shall prefer to call him, in honor to his Indian relatives. "Ah," exclaimed Brion, again-an innocent exclamation that he was in the habit of using when surprised ; for the partisan never employ- ed oaths, even when excited. Mariot and Beavertaker advanced and met. "I have many things to inquire about," said the former. "How do yo~u succeed with the Blackfeet ?" "At first I was looked upon with distrust, but my wife at length restored confidence ; so you see it is a good thing to have an Indian wife, though one be but half an Indian." "Well ?" said Mariot, impatiently. "A party of one hundred young warriors are already on the alert, and it will be strange indeed if-" The remainder of the sentence was spoken in a tone so low that Brion could not hear it ; he crept nearer. "Be sure that you make no mistake, for my own party are encamped in a valley not far below us." " Diable, that is bad, for all is fish that comes to their net-the Blackfeet I mean. If they should strike their trail, I could not restrain them. 1 have seen Ravenelaw, a chief of great consequence ; but he dislikes me, and is too 3 proud to be advised or led by one with white blood in his veins. I spoke of Redpath ; but my curiosity provoked him; he frowned and looked dangerous, and in a terrible voice told me to begone, and put a bridle on my tongue; since that I have not dared to speak the name of Redpath." " Nor is there need ; he is already upon the trail, doing his fearful work. Three have been stricken and more will follow. Discontent is in the camp-the expedition will fail." "Ah !" said Brion. "Did you hear anything?" asked Beavertaker. Mariot said no. "Diable ! can this be true, Monsieur Mariot ?" " Can what be true ?" " That Redpath is on the 'trail of Brion's brigade." " Mon Dieu, it is a fact ! He kills with a steel arrow which pierces the brain. It is ter- rible, but does my work-it cripples the power of that accursed company that threatens to ruin the house of Bellmar and Mariot." " You run some risk yourself," said Beaver- taker. " I know it, therefore my stay with the band will be short. I have already sprung my mine on the discontented ones. I have worked on their fears and their cupidity. I shall take away at least a dozen of his men, which will be a se- vere blow. Meantime, have your warriors con- cealed in the canon which you named wgen I saw you before, and-" "I understand," said the half-breed. " They have some good horses-a fact which it would be well to let your red devils know." " They shall be stolen," replied Beavertaker. "They may, perchance, cacltq some of their goods ?" " We will open the cache." "They, possibly, may wish to fight ?" "We will fight them, monsieur." Foudre I that is as it should be. Now I I must see my band of trappers and hunters." "Did you come with them?" - "No, with a small company of United States soldiers, who were sent to Fort Laramie, I found Kincaid, whobore me company till this morn- ing, or, rather till yesterday morning, as it is now past midnight--and by whose means I have held communication with the captain of my band. I shall meet Kincaid at the Red Butles, where he is at this moment, probably, awaiting me with two horses." s° 1 page: 38-39[View Page 38-39] .REDPATH. After farther conversation, Pierre Mariot lef the canon, followed by Brion, who felt too much interest in his movements to dismiss him from farther espionage. Kincaid was with the horse at the specified place, and the wo thy pair rod away, together. Fortunately for 'e partisan the ground was of such a nature that they could not proceed very fast, so that he kept in sight of them without much exertion. They convers ed but little, and Brion could not hear what they said. They finally reached the valley near which Beavertaker found Ravenclaw, as related in another chapter. Entering it, the mountain- eer saw the fires of an encampment. The camp was large, extending some rods along the valley, numbering, he judged, by a casual survey, one hundred persons, or even more. The horses and pack-mules of the party were side-lined and quietly feeding within eighty yards of the band; and it was there that Mariot stop- ped, sending forth Kincaid to request Captain Callard, the leader, to come to him. While Pierre was waiting, Brion placed himself in a position to hear to the best advantage, with the least danger of discovery. The rival partisan came, when the same matters were talked of that had been discussed by the half-breed. ' Those topics having been duly considered, Callard broached another, which had the merit of nov- elty, and interested Brion equally as much. " There is one circumstance to which I must call your attention," said Callard. "A youth joined us at Fort Leavenworth, whose conduct has been suspicious. Once, certainly, he has had communication with Captain Brion's band, and on several occasions has manifested a desire to visit the camp of our rivals ; but he has been so closely watched, that save in the instance I have named, I do not think he has been able to do much mischief, if such was his intention.' Brion did not say "Ah I" but he thought it, which answered his purpose. "An informer among your men may do in- calculable injury," said Mariot, earnestly. " This is not all, 1%onsieur Mariot; it is said by some in camp that this youth is a woman." "Diable 1" exclaimed Mariot. "Ah !" said Brion, in a whisper. "A woman ?" added Pierre. "A woman I" repeated Callard. 4' What the devil could send a woman among you ?"'asked Mariot, angrily. " It may have been love of adventure ; it {may have been simply love." t "A woman ! love ! Callard, this is getting romantic." " Remember, that it is first to be known that s the youth is a woman, and then whether she is e in love, before we can judge if things are grow- ing romantic." "By what name is this 'youth called ?" " Crevier." " What is his deportment, generally ?" " He is. singularly reserved-holds himself aloof from the men, loves solitude, and his sole companion is a colored man who attends him like his shadow, treating him with very great deference." " The colored man is his servant, and appear- ed with him in the first instance ?" "Yes." " What was his ostensible object in attaching himself to your party ?" " To join his father, he said, who has a trad- ing house on the Yellow Stone. Fearful that he might be a spy in the service of the American Fur Company, I have kept a constant watch-on his movements." "I must see this Crevier; do me the favor to ask him to come here." Crevier soon appeared, followed by a stout African. Brion recognized his youthful visitor, and regretted more than ever his unfriendly suspicions at the time of their first meeting. He looked upon his comely face and slender figure with new interest, doubting not but a woman's heart was beating beneath that masculine garb. CHAPTER VII. IMPORTANT DISCOVERIES ARE MADE. PIERRE MARIOT had dismounted and was standing with his right arm on the saddle, his face partially concealed from the eyes of the ap- proaching youth by the horse's head. Crevier advanced hesitatingly, the negro pressing closer- to him as he drew near. The partisan was ner- vously anxious to obtain a fair view of his fea- tures-a fact showing an important change in his feelings since the night Crevier sat by his lonely fire.- " It is indeed a woman," he said mentally. Mariot was no less anxious to see the youth, and mark his bearing. " Well, sir," said Pierre, abruptly, "I have sent for you to ask a few questions concerning your father's trading-house on the Yellow Stone River." Crevier recoiled at the sound of Mariot's voice, and was much agitated. - The negro whispered to him, which in some degree restored his self- possession. The partisan noticed that Mariot evinced surprise, which betrayed itself in his tones. "Why do you wish to question me ?" asked Crevier, with some trepidation. ."For the object I have stated." " What if I refuse to answer them ?" Crevier resumed. "I shall be obliged to compel you, possibly." "'Member dis chile am here !" said the Afri- can to Crevier, looking menacingly at Mariot. "Let that nigger be silent !" added Mariot, sternly. "He has a right to speak, I think ; he is not in your employ, and therefore not responsible to you, but to myself alone," continued Crevier, with spirit. "Dat am 'zactly it !" quoth Bhlaam, whose name had the merit of being scriptural. " Captain Callard, will you rap that nigger over the head," said Mariot. Captain Callard manifested a disposition to rap Balaam over the head, but that nigger doubled a very large fist and, held it so Callard could see it, which had the desired effect to re- strain his enthusiasm. "Do you know, sir," Mariot continued, ad- dressing Crevier, " that I'm disposed to con- sider you a spy in the employ of the American Fur Company ?" " You are at liberty to think so," was the quiet rejoinder. "Captain Callard, it will be necessary that this young man by severely punished, as an ex- ample to others."- " That is my opinion, Monsieur Mariot." The partisan was observing Mariot as well as his position would allow, and plainly perceived that he was endeavoring to terrify Crevier and throw him off his guard ; but if that was his in- tention, he failed-the youth remained un- daunted., " How are, spies usually punished, captain ?" " 0 with death, monsieui-; always." . " That was my impression. What is this black man's name?" "Balaam," said Callard. " Well, Balaam will have to suffer with his master. In answer to this consoling information, Ba- laam looked at the moon and winked assiduously. " Leave me a few moments with this young man, captain, and take the nigger with you." " Come, Balaam," said Callard. "I stays with massa, allers," replied Balaam, firmly. "But I wish you to go," said Mariot. "An'. I wish" to stay where I is," returned Balaam, pertinaciously. The captain approached him with the inten- tion of laying his right hand upon his shoulder to lead him awayr; but Balaam assumed such a belligerent attitude that he deemed it prudent to forego his purpose and walk off without him. "This is all very strange," said Mariot, when the captain was out of hearing. "What do you refer to ?" asked Crevier, in a faltering voice. "It is useless to wear the mask longer, Mad- emoiselle Mignon."~ "My secret is - discovered ; alas !" cried the youth. "0, it required but a glance to penetrate your disguise. He that loves, has sharp eyes," Ma- riot rejoined, with something of triumph in his manner. " Let me entreat that you will not beti4y me, Monsieur Mariot ?" said Mignon, in supplicat- ing tones. "Ah, Mignon, had it been for my sake, I should be the happiest of men ; but I dare not flatter myself that such is the case ?" said Pierre, softly. " For his sake 1" muttered Brion. "Do not flatter yourself too much, monsieur." "Then you had another object in-view ?" "Your vanity is without parallel !" "You persist in averring that you have not regretted-that is, that you have' not changed your mind in regard-?' " To your proposal !" "Yes." "I should hate myself "if I had no nobler ob- ject in view, Monsieur Pierre 1" "And very properly, too,"- quoth Brion to himself, whose heart was beating violently. "Diable ! you are the same. I had hoped-" " That I had repented." " Precisely." "But you see I have not ?". " Do you know, Mademoiselle Bellmar, that this frankness may injure you ?" "Explain." "Do you not perceive that you are in my power?" 388 REDPATH. 39 r page: 40-41[View Page 40-41] 40 BEDPAT. " 0, you are there !" " Yes, I command here. I sued at Westport." "I forgot for the instant that I was talking to a villain," replied Mignon, with dignity. "Excellent !" quoth the partisan. " She has him there I" "Mignon, reflect upon your situation. I have power to protect you-to keep your secret, to preserve you from ridicule." "And if you were a gentleman, you would do so unconditionally." "That your conduct has been bold and un- maidenly, I think you must own; with such a precedent before me, I may venture to be bold and unmanly. What have you to answer to such logic ?" " Humanly you are ; but if by boldness you mean physical courage, I should say you will never be bold." "Be sarcastic, if you will; yet it seems to me that we meet under circumstances in which you would do well to abate your pride and hold humbler language. You are at present so sit- uated, as to be under my authority." " I do not acknowledge your authority. You cannotwithout an unwarrantable usurpation of power restrain my actions, or control my move- ments." - " Your personal comfort shall be attended to as far as my means will allow, and you shall be treated with respect by my men; but you must know that you are not at liberty to leave the party." " Dare you thus presume to take from me my freedom ? By what right, Monsieur Mariot, do you thus assume authority over me ?" " By the right of might." "That is well answered; but hear my pro- test. I will not submit to your tyranny. There must be men of honor in your party. I will throw myself upon their generosity ; they will protect me." "These men are in my pay." "And my father's, too; you forget that you are the junior partner!" "I remember everything that I wish to re- member, Mademoiselle Bellmar." "A rare faculty." "In the name ofall that is wild and marvel- lous, tell me your motive for unsexing yourself, and running such a quixotic career ?" " That is a'secret in my own keeping, fortu- nately." " Your motive must have been extraordinary. Your father will lose his reason when he hears of this ?" " God avert such a calamity !" exclaimed Mig- non, with fervor. "You do well to invoke the name of God after committing this fatal error ! You should have reflected and deported yourself as becomes one of your sex and age. But this mountain pilgrimage, I'll wager my reputation, is all for love !" "Don't wager your reputation, Monsieur Pierre-the stake is too great !"- "You sustain your part bravely, I'll admit; but be assured I'll probe your secret to the bot- tom. Ah, Mignon, the time will come when you shall redden with shame at the sound of my voice, it shall so remind you of your folly.". " It reminds me of everything absurd at this moment." Balaam rubbed his hands and laughed. Ma- riot bit his lip with vexation, and called Callard, who was waiting his pleasure, at the nearest fire. He came, and with him two persons-Grenier and Kincaid. "Men," said Mariot, "you are to watch this' youth, this Monsieur Crevier, and his servant, and see that- they do not leave the party. I have special reasons for wishing them to remain with us." Callard bowed and smiled. " Captain," said Mignon, gently, "I hope we shall be friends ?" " I-I trust so," responded Callard, consider- ably embarrassed. " Here is my hand,. captain," she added, ex- tejiding that little member with charming grace to the leader, who could not refuse the tempting offer; while Pierre beheld the demonstration with ill-concealed anger and jealousy. "And yet, mad-Mr. Crevier, I mean-I ex- pect I shall be obliged to restrict you to certain limits ; but my authority shall be mildly exert- ed, believe me." " Beware, captain," said Pierre, with a forced smile. "You're upon dangerous ground." Mariot had advanced a little, and now stood two paces in front of his horse, with the bridle upon his arm. Callard, Kincaid and Grenier were at his right, at the distance of three or four yards, while Mignon and Balaam were on the left. Brion occupied a position to see the par- ties very well. What had just passed between the captain and Mignon did not escape his no- tice, but gave a painful sensation which was REDPATH new to him. Possibly it was for Callard that she left a happy home to tempt the dangers and hardships of the mountain. Although theidea was unpleasant~ for a moment, he really envied the captain. "Fortunate man," he murmured. "Fortu- nate man ; you have pressed that little hand." The partisan's brow was clouded; sorrow and indignation were contending within. At one moment his limbs seemed losing their strength ; at another he appeared to be suffocating with some new malady that pressed his heart from his chest to his throat. He bent forward that not a word might escape him, so intensely inter- esting were the developments. Mariot turned to Grenier and said : " I suppose you are ready to render an ac- count of what you have done ?" Grenier was about to reply, when some object whistled through the air. Grenier threw up his arms, rolled his eyes wildly, and fell upon his face. There were simultaneous cries of aston- ishment. The long, smoothly-wrought shaft of an arrow protruded from Grenicr's head. Mariot proceeded from the spot 'in absolute terror, as if expecting to feel the point of the steel bolt in his own brain. - " Mon Dieu !" he cried, with a shudder. "Pierre Mariot," exclaimed Mignon, pointing -at Grenier, "read your destiny ; behold how Heaven will punish your evil deeds !" "Doomed !" muttered Kincaid, despairingly, dropping his chin upon his breast, while Callard, with more presence of mind, sprang into the ad- joining thicket, rifle in hand. " Come back," shouted Mariot; but Callard was already in the -bushes. It was fortunate for Brion that the captain turned to the northern instead of the western side, for it was frotn that quarter that the arrow had apparently been pro- jected. After beating about in the thicket a few minutes, Callard returned, having seen no enemy. " Look at your misguided instrument, and tell me if you are prepared to go as suddenly ?" said Mignon to Pierre, warningly. "Instrument !" repeated IMariot, with a quickness that proved she had touched a sensi- tive spot. " You know too much, Mignon!" "Now would it not be singular, Monsieur Mariot, if you should meet the fate of the man at our feet," she resumed, impressively. Pierre looked at the dead man and breathed heavily ; an indefinable awe was tugging at his heart-a phantom hand menaced him. 41 Callard attempted to draw the ' arrow from Grenier's head; but it broke close to the skull, the steel point remaining firmly embedded in the brain. Mignon and Balaam walked toward the en- campment ; Mariot followed in three minutes- the camp was astir, hunters and trappers run- ning to the place where Grenier had fallen. The partisan hurried away from the locality much excited by what he had seen and heard. Indeed, it was to him a night of startling reve- lations; but being of 4 strong, well-balanced mind, he regained his wonted calmness-to ap- pearance-before he reached the encampment of his band. Buckeye met him outside the corral, where he had been impatiently awaiting him. "By the beard of Joe Smith!" he exclaimed, "I've a nice bone for you to pick,iand have been waitin' to throw it to you for more than three hours." " Well, give it a toss-I will catch it," quoth Brion. "You'll growl over it, I'll warrant." " I promise not to bite." " Well, here it is; there's mutiny in the camp -the trappin' business is at a discount, and gold huntin' in the Aztec kentry is at a premium." "Ah !" "Jes' so, cap'n, I reckon." " Who is at the head of the new enterprise ?" "Headley, of course ; but that new feller, the Frenchman, sprung the trap on,'em." " Why, Headley apologized for his conduct ?" "Perhaps he will agin; comes kind of nat'ral to him, don't it ?" "I, too, have made discoveries, Buckeye." " Open your pack." " If I possess any considerable tact in reading human character, you are an honest man. May I reckon upon your friendship and assistance ?" " By the beard of Joe Smith, yes ! When I forgit to treat jou like a friend and brother, may the arrow of Redpath pierce my brain !" " You are sincere, and I will make you the repository of important matters. It will be a relief to share the secrets of the night with one whom I am sure will not betray me." The partisan then narrated the incidents al- ready placed before the reader, reserving to him- self the privilege of representing Mignon in a way as favorable to her as the case would pos- sibly admit. Of his passion' for her he said nothing ; indeed, he was not willing to acknowl- page: 42-43[View Page 42-43] 42 REDPATH. REDPATH. edge the existence of such a sentiment, even to himself; and the pains he took to conceal it served to awaken suspicions in the mind of the trapper, and point to the truth. "A reg'lar conspiracy ; very curious consarn ; lucky thing that you watched Monsieur Mariot. I concluded there was sumthin' wicked in him while I lay liseenin' among the packs and sad- dles to his grand talk about gold diskiveries, and the castle of Montezuma, which is a humbug. The villain has used a good deal of nat'ral cnn- nin' in layin' his plans, but the tables may be turned on him; notwithstandin'. The heathen riptile with the bow is arter him, anid he'll leave some of his men behind him, even as you have. The divil takes care of his own, it is said ; -if it wasn't so, we might expect to hear some day that Monsieur Mariot had felt the sharp p'int of the steel arrow." "He will return before morning, hoping his absence has not been noticed," said Brion, very earnestly. " He will come back to conduct Headley and- his friends to the Casa Montezuma, and the land of treasure. How shall you receive him, cap'n"?" "I have not matured my plan, yet. Indeed, I am much disturbed and confused by the extra- ordinary things that have-providentially, let me believe-fallen under my observation. I need time to reflect-to resolve on a course of conduct that shall be the most judicious, the best for my employers, my men, and lastly myself; for self, friend Buckeye, in an affair like this, ought to come last, and not be made to occupy the first place in my thoughts. Danger encir- cles me like a belt ; but men have been in more precarious positions, and lived to tell the story of their escape ; thus may it be with me. There are some veterans in my party that I can rely on; they will not fail me, I trust, in an emer- gency. We can deal with the Blackfeet war- riors. A surprise would be disastrous, extreme- ly ; but that peril is now comparatively small. To know an enemy's order of battle is to know how to meet him. With your aid, it will be difficult for a war party of an hundred to ap- .proach our camp without discovery. I count you a dozen ordinary men; because you have much experience in Indian policy, and know how to look through the double sights." " That's a compliment I'm proud of, insomuch as it wasn't said by a common man by way of flattery. Cap'n, I am at your orders from this minute ; tell me to do this or that, to'reconnoi- tre, to follow trail, to watch fob an enemy by night, to fight till the last gasp, and I'll do it without questions. It's an offer I never made afore, but by the beard of Joe Snmith, there's sumthin' in ye I like." The partisan smiled pleasantly and held out his hand. buckeye gave it a rough and hearty grasp, thus sealing the friendly compact which was to last as long as the lives of the parties. It is now time that we return to 1)Iignon, and take a casual glance at the passage of events somewhat in their regular order. Mariot speed- ily made Bellmar acquainted with the fact that Mademoiselle had repudiated the long talked-of alliance. That gentleman received the informa- tion with more calmness than he had anticipated. He told Pierre to be patient ; he would see his daughter ; he trusted the matter would be satis- factorily arranged ; there was no need of ex- citement; he had skill to manage it properly. Mariot was led to hope in the ultimate surren- der of the fair citadel; we will learn how he prospered. Monsieur Bellmar at length broached the sub- ject gently to Mignon, who demanded to know why he was desirous of such a union. He're- plied that he was anxious for such a consumma- tion for several reasons. "Is Monsieur Mariot a man of honor ?" she asked. Bellmar was confused. "As much so, perhaps, as the average of man- kind," he answered. "Is he possessed of even common honesty ?" resumed Mignon, taking her father's hand. "What a strange question, Mignon," he re- turned, evasively. "Do you consult my happiness, only, in this alliance ?" she demanded. " What else should I consult ?" " Interest-worldly interest, possibly." " Such a marriage would be advantageous in a pecuniary point of view, I admit." " Do you fear his anger in case of my refu- sal ?" "Pierre, you remember, inherited his father's property, which was worth at his decease far more than mine; Pierre wished to enlarge our business when he. succeeded his father in the house, and having considerable money, the say- ings of my late partner, he made an investment of capital beyond my means, so that, in truth, I am his debtor to a large amount, which might make it exceedingly awkward, should he wish for a dissolution of the house of Bellmar & Mariot." "But all your resources are. not invested ; during the many years of your labors, you must have amassed enough to ensure you a com- petence ?" "I have laid by something for you, my child, which you shall have." "Well, then, my father, let us be content. Pierre is a villain, 4and I will not consent to be united to a bad man. Whenever you are clos- eted with him you should pray, 'Lead me not into temptation, but deliver me from all evil."' "One would think you had been listening !" he exclaimed, with displeasure. 1 *1 "And correctly, too ; for I happened to be in the room adjoining the library at the time of your interview with Pierre in regard to the Ameri- can Fur Company." "And-you heard all !" criedBellmar, excited. "All, my father. And I heard also, what you did not-the development of his scheme." " The following day with three men "Yes. Can you now say-to me, 'My daugh- ter, I wish you to marry Monsieur Mariot,,for he is a worthy man?' Bellmar pressed his hands to his forehead and made no answer. Mignon related circumstantially all that had transpired at the interview between Mariot, Gre- nier, Kincaid and Gardette, to which her audi- tor listened without once looking at her, or changing his attitude. " Is all this villany to transpire without one effort to prevent it ?" Mignon asked, with in- genuous warmth, when the narration was completed. " What can be done ? Mariot will act as he pleases," said Bellmar.' "What, will you suffer yourself to be com- promised in character by the machinations of a bad man ! Do you not see that his evil schem- ing must sooner or later become known ? Too many persons have his secrets in possession, each of whom would betray him for a few dol- lars. Are you then to connive at murder, my dear father? Are you to be the. accomplice of assassins?" Mignon spoke earnestly, and Bellmar began to be startled by her representations. "Indeed, you move me, Mignon. I had not considered the subject in a light so serious."' "Your hairs, my father, are already silvery ; would you add crime to age, and die with the dark mark of Cain upon your brow ? Act while there is time, I entreat of you I" "I am powerless,.powerless! .Mariot has sent his emissaries ; they are far upon their way. I cannot overtake them, if I wbuld ; for you know. Mignon, that the fire and energy of youth de- parted years ago. I regret what he has done, extremely; his plans are both rash and wicked, Mon Dieu, my child, I am troubled." "Now you speak according to the dictates of. nature and religion, and your voice.is pleasant. Ah, if you listen to Pierre, you will leave me but a legacy of infamy !" "But what can I do, girl ?" " Dissolve all connection with Mariot, even at a great- pecuniary sacrifice. Let him with- draw his capital-suffer him to do his worst- the law will protect you ; you will be a gainer to rid yourself of him at any price." "I believe that is the truth, Mignon. World- ly interests may have blinded my eyes, but do you think I am a very bad man at heart, my daughter ?" "0 no, at heart you are good ; therefore you should not be unequally yoked with an unbe- liever in human-virtue, a contemner of honesty, a scoffer at, religion, an apostate from honor. Say you will try to save Brion's party from destruction, and let the house of Bellmar & Mariot fall? How your gray hairs would look at the bar of justice; how your head would droop with shame under the heavy pressure of guilt !" "Perhaps Mariot will relent." " But you have said it is already too late ; he has sent hired assassins to dog the honest parti- san, to cut off men engaged in a lawful calling." " Parbleu ! woman's instincts are said to be quick and true ; come, what shall I do ?" "You will trust it to me ?"' " I will trust it to you." "And you will allow me money, and what- ever I may wish." "I will allow you money, and whatever you may wish." Mignon embraced her father, who went on to say that business would compel him to go to St. Louis, to be absent three weeks; but he trusted in her discretion, having no fears that she would be guilty of follies. " Your mind," he continued, "is fertile in ex- pedients, while mine, Mignon, has lost the great- e-ft 43 " page: 44-45[View Page 44-45] 44 BEDPATH. er part of its strength and vigor. I am willing, I am more than willing,-I am anxious that Pierre's designs should be thwarted.'. But Brion has gone, .and I know not where he is to be found. 'Whetlher his men are at Fort Leaven- worth or on the way, I know not. We hoped our party would be in advance of him, but his activity has outdone us. If Brion is at Fort Leavenworth, a faithful messenger might be sent to warn him to be on his guard-without compromising myself or Mariot. A few vague hints judiciously thrown out would be sufficient, without calling names, or indicating the precise nature of the danger." "Was not Captain Brion here a week ago ?" "Yes, he was after men; but most of them being already engaged by me, he left the same day, and since that time has passed through all the frontier towns of any note, in search of hunt- ers and trappers. And this is why it is so dif- ficult to find him." " When will your band be ready to start ?" "In ten days." "Numbering how many men ?" "One hundred." , "And commanded by-", " Captain Callard." The foregoing conversation led to that extra- ordinary resolution which resulted in the pil- grimage of Mignon, in male attire, to the west- ern wilds. She hoped to find the partisan at Fort Leavenworth, make such communication as she might without directing suspicion toward -her father, and return without a protracted ab- sence. She waited her father's departure with impatience, that she might put her plan into ex- ecution, but he delayed it day after day. Ten days elapsed before he set out for St. Louis, and even then Callard had not secured his com- plement of men. Mignon abandoned the expectation of finding Brion at Fort Leavenworth, so much time had passed since he left Westport-therefore deter- mined upon that course of conduct which finally introduced her to the reader on the prairies. Having once formed the project, she set about preliminary operations with an earnestness that conquered obstacles, and a foresight that would not have been discreditable to a veteran trapper. Her perspicacity owed much of its acuteness, however, to observation, derived from the asso- ciations which her father's business naturally threw around her. From her earliest recollec- tions she had seen hunters and trappers, heard their tales of adventure ; they were a class whose habits and peculiarities were most familiar. She knew the nature of the perils that attended them in their long excursions, amid the rugged and snowy mountains, what kind of an outfit they needed, their mode of travelling and defence, and lastly how, when, and where they practised their trade. Balaam was a faithful servant, who had been many years in the family. It was the particular wish of Madame Bellma', at the time of her de- cease, which was when Mignon was but a child, that Balaam should always be considered a mein- ber of the household and be treated with kind- ness, which desire had been strictly observed and respected. Balaam was not, as the reader may be inclined to conjecture, feeble and in his do- tage, but robust, and a giant in strength. At- fifty years, with power undiminished by hard- ship and abuse, he was at the best period of his manhood. Mignon found in him an able coad- jutor-after she had overcome his scruples, and silenced his objections-for Balaam had twice been to Bellmar's trading-house in the country of the Nez Perces. When her preparations were completed, she proceeded to Fort Leavenworth, accompanied by this faithful friend and servant. Brion had departed. The description of the slender youth, in the opening chapter, precludes the necessity of de- scribing Mignon's appearance when she joined the trappers at Fort Leavenworth. Previous to starting, she wrote an affectionate letter for her father-who two days before had left for St. Louis, placing it where he would be sure to find it. The advent of Mignon among the hunters was looked upon by Callard with suspicion; she soon perceived that she was watched, and deprecated from her heart that selfish interest that fills the human soul with distrust. "Balaam," said Mignon, "is there not some- thing you wish to say to me ?" " Dar is, Massa Crevier," replied Balaam. " Well, there is no one in hearing ; proceed." " Does ye see dat fire ober dar ?" - "Yes, Balaam." " Whose fire dat is, ye spect ?" "Mignon answered that she could form no supposition, whatever." Balaam informed her that Captain Brion was encamped there for the night. "Alone ?" inquired Mignon. ,, Balaam replied in the affirmative, explaining that his party were in advance, he having left Fort Leavenworth but a few hours before Callard began his march. " I must speak to Captain Brion," added Mignon. "Dat am diffikilt," quoth Balaam, " Do you think we are watched ?" " Ebry minute, Missy Mignon ?" "Hush, call me Master Crevier. I will put the matter to the test. I will walk leisurely' from the camp, and you will remain here. If I need you, I 'will discharge my rifle, the use of which you have so well taught me. If I am fol- lowed, you will be sure to observe the circum- stance." The fire to which Balaam had cited Mignon's attention, was distant nearly half a mile, but on account of an intervening valley did not seem half so far. She left the encampment, advancing with mingled emotions oftimidity and heroism. - How novel was her situation! What unfriendly con- structions her conduct might bear ! But she arose superior to weakness ; she felt a strength that surprised herself, and prayed that those might be forgiven whose unhappy temperament it is to think evil of others. She would save her aged father from becoming partaker of another's sins, from sharing another's crime. That was just-that was praiseworthy-that was right- and all the. sophistry in the world could not make right wrong. She grew strong in moral power,'a shield of protection was over, above, around her. Her fears were dispelled by the strength of virtue, and the consciousness of truth. Mignon heard steps, and looking around; saw Captain Callard followingher. She paused upon a gentle eminence, the same where she first ap- peared to the reader. It has been shown how she reached the bivouac of Brion, meeting with a reception from that worthy man,.which, though civil, was not cordial. Mignon's calmness was severely shaken by' the trapper's coldness, which caused her to re- alize but too sensibly the peculiar awkwardness of her position. To conceal her feelings, she as- sumed that thoughtful, abstracted air which we noted in the, proper place, such a mood giving her a natural pretext for averting her face from the mountaineer. She had flattered herself that she could meet Brion unshrinkingly, and warn him of the danger impending without effort or hesitation ; but now she found herself over- whelmed by innumerable scruples, and a diffi- dence quite unaccountable. She was observed, too ; Callard was behind a tree, not fifty yards distant ; he showed -himself to Mignon, with his right forefinger upon his lips, and his left held up in menace ; this pan- tomime signified that she should be silent. She was cruelly embarrassed; but a remarkable power of self-control kept her outwardly calm. She resolved not to be thwarted ; when she had sufficient command over her voice, she said, without changing her meditative attitude or expression : " captain Brion, there is danger near you; I have come to put you upon your guard ; but I am watched; a man behind yonder tree is, almost near enough to hear my voice." Mignon waited for a response ;'the mountain- eer was already asleep, while Captain Callard was drawing nearer. She arose to go, when to her horror, she discovered a serpent winding its unsightly body into a coil, three paces from the partisan's head. To seize a long fagot and dis- patch the loathsome creature, was the work of a moment only; she marvelled at her own promp- titude and boldness as soon as the deed was ac- complished. Excited and trembling she hurried from the spot to meet Balaam who was approach= ing. Eluding Callard, she returned to the en- campment, glad that her feeble hand had been the instrument of Providence in the preserva- tion of the trapper. It was after this partial failure that Mignon resolved on another experiment. As has been anticipated, it was through her agency that the hatchet had been left where it would fall into the hands of Brion, the. dumb bearer of a con- cealed message. Balaam had been trusted with that commission, and despite the espionage of Callard, succeeded in discharging it successfully by adroit management. Mignon had enjoined on him to be careful that a portion of the slip of paper be left visible, that it might immediately be seen by the finder ; an item which he so far overlooked, that, as we have seen, it was sev- eral days before it attracted the partisan's at- tention. To mystify the latter, Balaam had adopted the expedient of breaking the trail by grasping a mammoth vine that hung pendant from a tree, and swinging himself forward across a small gully where the ground was soft; this was why the trapper was baffled. By a skilful manoeuvre, Mignon evaded the REDPATH. page: 46-47[View Page 46-47] 46 REDFATH. vigilance of Callard, after the two bands had passed Fort Laramie, and joining the partisan, conversed with him in the manner related, not doubting but her warning had been read and understood; or, at least sufficiently compre- hended to make the captain so cautious as to frustrate the designs of his enemies. She wish- ed on that occasion to speak to him freely; but unfortunately, she confounded Buckeye' with Gardette, the half breed, who was acting for Mariot ; and hence her silence on the subject ever uppermost in her thoughts. While she was planning an expedient to rid herself of his presence, Balaam appeared in the distance, motioning her to return to the party, inasmuch as her absence was exciting inquiry- a series of signals previously agreed upon. We are now ready to tell what happened to Mignon after her unexpected interview with Monsieur Mariot. CHAPTER VIII. MIGNON MEETS RAVENCLAW. MIGNON loved liberty. Nothing could be more repugnant to her feelings than the idea of personal restraint, especially when exercised by a man whose character she detested. To re- main with the band and be subject to the au- thority of Pierre Mariot, was a contingent entirely abhorrent to her notion of her own rights and privileges. It was also at variance with her instinctive delicacy to be brought again into contact with those who already knew or mis- trusted her sex ; who could neither understand her motives nor pity her confusion. To avoid be- ing so awkwardly and- painfully placed-an ob- ject, perchance, of rude comment and ridicule- to evade Mariot's vigilance and escape his dom- ination, became her ruling desire. In the- event of success, should she throw herself upon the protection of Brion, or attempt to return home across the wide prairies, attended by Balaam only ? The first was not without objections, but it appeared most safe and feasible. Mignon believed it would be best to act upon her deter- mination promptly, while Mariot was still labor- ing under surprise, before -he had artfully delib- erated, arranged his plan of action, and system- atized his espionage over her conduct. During her pilgrimage, Mignon had nightly been protected by a small tent, which Balaam had provided for that purpose, and which hef was expert in putting up and taking down. 47 REDPATH. The tent had two compartments, in the smaller of which slept Balaam, like a faithful watch- dog, ever on the alert, ready to start up for her defence at the first approach of danger. He kin- dled and kept the fires also, when fires were needful, cooking with skill, preparing the choic- est cuts of venison for his adventurous young mistress. So it will hence be seen that Mignon passed the time, when not on the march, quite by her- self, apart from that motley mixture of men composing Callard's band. The services of Ba- laam were many and important. His advice was always seasonable ; she trusted in his sa- gacity, anticipating protection from his strong arm in every emergency which might occur. He was proud of her confidence, willing to make any sacrifice that human creature could, to en- sure her safety and comfort. Balaam was well armed, and hardly it would fare with him who should have the temerity to insult Mignon. H was not wholly indebted to those deadly imple- ments in vogue, for the means of assault and vengeance, because nature had gifted him with hands of remarkable ,strength, with which to crush an - adversary, and administer corporeal pain. Balaam was of a patient, genial disposi- tion, but when a quarrel was forced upon him, and his feelings were outraged, he was an antag- onist greatly to be feared. Those so unfortunate as to feel the stunning power of his fist, repented' their rashness, and cared not to provoke his -ire again. Balaam was - consulted in reference- to the emergency that had arisen. She explained to him her reasons for not wishing to remain with the party, which, in his view, were sufficiently cogent ; indeed, her mere will would have been considered imperative, without a single argu- ment. She said to him: "We can escape more readily to night than to-morrow, or any subsequent period." "Dat am a fack," quoth Balaam. " Come, my friend," she continued, "how shall it be done ?" " I want to know just where yer gwine when yer. git away; dat's de question dat 'quires splainin'." "Perhaps I shall throw myself upon the pro- tection of Captain Brion." "De man you-" " The man I-what, Balaam ?" said Mignon, sharply, coloring. "Nuffin of no consequence," replied Balaam. "Don't 'sturb me; I'm tinkin' how it can be done." " I'll wait patiently."t The African remained silent some five minutes.t "We shall want our bosses," he said, at length. Mignon assented. " Well dis chile must crawl. out dar 'mongst 'em, cut de ' side-lines, and lead 'em off softly, while you creep away in nuther direction." " Yes, Balaam." "Den I jines ye wid de losses, ober dar by dem cotton-woods." " Suppose you should be discovered ?" " Dis cullod feller fight-git away. I'll meet ye dare, sure, 'twixt dis and mornin'-pervidin' you git dar." "That I can do, believe me. You see I am small-I can move quietly. Look out, and, ob- serve what is going on." Balaam did as bidden, reporting that most of the party were gathered around, the dead body of Grenier, but he could hear voices in Callard's tent. " The fate of that man was sudden and awful; but I imagined I saw in his death the hand of retributive justice," said Mignon. " Redpath am about," said the black, in an under tone. " Yes, it would really seem that there is such a personage; he was spoken of by that very man as a fitting terror to unloose upon Captain Bri- on's party, but his evil thought has reacted on him ; yonder he lies lifeless, translated in a mo- ment from this world to the other, with his sins upon him-with his many unrepented sins weigh- ing darkly upon him." Mignon paused, arrested possibly by the thought that the same peril attended her, wher- ever she might wander in the mountains. " Did .you remark, Balaam, that the half- breed was much affectedby fear'? I recognized him immediately, as one of the three men in the service of Mariot-one of the trio from whose rudeness I was saved by the brave mountaineer. Not long since I confounded him with another, but who was a better man, undoubtedly." "Dere, missy, I'se forgot sev'ral 'portant 'tic' lars I" exclaimed Balaam, without heeding Mig- non's last remarks. " Here's our tent and bag- gage ; can't get 'long 'thout 'em." "I know they are useful, but necessity com- pels us to leave them." The black looked round and shook his head-- equivalent to a declaration that he must have them at any risk. Mignon gave him to under- stand that she would confide the matter wholly to his discretion, having unshaken faith in his prudence. "And now," she resumed, "is it not time for me to go ?" Balaam-went out and reconnoitred once more, coming back very soon with the report that there was a fair prospect of success, as the at- tention of the band was still directed to the sub- ject of Grenier's death; while Mariot and Cal- lard were yet talking earnestly, as he learned, by listening in the vicinity of the parties. "I hate to have ye try it," said Balaam, "'cause it's dangerous-like, and dars no known' what'll happen; but if ye've made up yer mind to it, why I s'pose ye must. De Lord knows what'll come ob all dis, for I doesn't ; but I'll stick to ye long as I've de breff ob life. Now go and manage it de best ye can; and I'll watch ye long as I can see ye." Mignon left the tent ; a single glance over the encampment assured her that the moment was favorable. Moving quickly, her figure was soon lost to Balaam's view in the shadow of the hill, at the base of which lay the valley. Five minutes after, lie saw her near the cotton-woods, and was certain she would reach it without discovery, which she did. It was then two hours past midnight. The moon was waning, and the stars seemed to look down through a mist of silver. The mountains were grim and cold, the snows on their sum- mits gleaming faintly and weirdly in the pale light, To Mignon's imagination the view appeared like giant castles, with lofty towers, gloomy bas- tions, and rugged turrets. The defiles were moats spanned by drawbridges kept by genii. Feelings of awe stole upon Mignon as she cast her eyes toward those mighty barriers. The mightiness of nature, the grandeur of her works, humbled her heart. The ever famished prairie- dogs barked and fled at her advance, -stopping at a little distance to look back and redouble their cries ; while occasionally, in the distance a troop of wolves howled their hideous notes. Though inured 'to these sounds, Mignon-=now that she was alone-if not absolutely terrified, was startled and nervous. There followed her also an unpleasant remembrance of what had occurred that night directly before her, as well page: 48-49[View Page 48-49] REDPATH. 549 48 REDPATH. as incidents of a similar nature that had happen- ed in Brion's band. As others had asked so did Mignon, "Who is Redpath ?" tier better judgment told her that Redpath was a savage, cunning and deadly, and that was all. But why were his movements so secret, his step so noiseless, his approaches so-mysterious ? Easy questions to answer. He was secret because success depended upon secrecy ; his step noise- less for the reason that he adopted extraordinary precautions ; his approaches mysterious as the combined result of long practice and skill. Red- path, then, was but a stealthy Indian, more malevolent than his brethren, hence more. terri- ble. He was daring, persevering and adroit, but perhaps he might yet find an adversary as daring, persevering and adroit as he. He was but a savage daubed with paint and full of subtlety;' he would doubtless fall, ultimately, by the ball of an American woodsman, and his name and fame only survive. Thus reflected Mignon, trying to suppress those fears which were natural to the time and place, and in which something very like super- stition blended. Say what we may to the con- trary, the strongest minds have an undercurrent of superstition, and the sturdiest scoffers at the marvellous find a substratum of supernaturalism in their souls. This is a truism that the "athe- ist's laugh" and the infidel's ridicule cannot overthrow. It is a good thing for .man that there is such a susceptibility within him; it is the only avenue through which to convince him of the existence of a Supreme power, and a con- scious life hereafter. Mignon formed no excep- tion to the general body of humanity, in this respect; and though the name of Redpath had at first presented as a fabled terror, she shared unconsciously, almost, in the prevailing senti- ment of the trappers, hunters and voyageurs- that Redpath was a being somewhere between human and devilish. Near the cotton-woods where she was to wait the coming of Balaam, was a crevasse or gully, the entrance to which was more deeply pictured in shadow. Its sides were jagged and high, worn and torn (formerly) by a strong stream of water that tumbled from the lower ranges in a season of rain. At the top, at the very edges of the crevasse, their roots exposed and robbed of soil, stood some trees of pinon, -cypress and birch, bending their sickly tops over the chasm. The place, lonely and sombre as it was, appeared to offer to Mignon a safe retreat until the black should join her. With a step that faltered, lack- ing its wonted firmness, she passed into the gloom of the crevasse. It was cooler there, the night wind breathing through as it crept from the hills. Walking on, she came to a deep dell or basin-a spot of rare obscurity-of which we have had occasion to speak. Beyond were a series of elevations extending to the base qf the Wind River chain of the Rocky Mountains. Mignon paused in that solitude. How com- plete was her isolation ! she seemed alone on the face of the globe, or the only inhabitant of a new world. Hundreds of miles distant were the familiar objects of childhood, scenes indelibly impressed in memory, home with its tender as- sociations and kindred beloved. Why was she in that isolation ? Why had she cast aside the trammels of her sex, and betaken to such a quix- otic adventure ? To save her father from par- ticipation in crime, and to secure, if possible, the safet fof Captain Brion, was the never varying respo WI which she gave to those questions. Tier father's name always came first, afterward Brion's ; that order agreed better with her deli- cacy. How would the- sententious world inter- pret all this ? the world with such a-severe sense of decorum-the world which reaches just as far as one's \name and fame, and no farther, all be- yond being a blank ! " Fear not !" said a voice. Mignon recoiled and cried out in alarm; be- side her stood a tall and motionless figure. "Be not afraid, paleface." The speaker was an Indian of majestic height. With his arms folded upon his breast, he stood looking calmly at Mignon. " Stand up like a man and do not tremble like a woman. Ravenclaw strikes not such as thou ! Thy chin is smooth, thy heart is soft, and there is no power in thy arm to harm my race.", The voice of the red man was deep and musi- cal; it came from his broad chest without effort. His eyes were dark and piercing as those of the eagle; it seemed to Mignon that she became transparent before him, and he had to look at her only, to see what was 'passing within. His bearing was dignified to a notable degree. He spoke the English as if it had been his ver- nacular. "The vagabond prairie-dog has a home, the fox a covert, and the wild wolf's whelp a den; but thou, 0 son of a mighty nation, art shelter- less," added the Indian. " Take the goat from the mountains, the buf- falo from the prairies, the wild horse from the pampas, the fish from the water, and thee from the dwellings of thy kindred. Each thing and creature loves its element ; therefore the goat stays on the mountain, the buffalo on the prairie, the wild horse on the pampas, the fish in the water; wherefore art thou here ?" "You say well; you -speak according to na- ture; but it would take long to tell you, son of the eagle, why I am in the country which the Master of Life has given to the red man," replied Mignon, re-assured by the lofty yet kindly man- ner of the native. Ravenclaw walked a few paces from Mignon and addressed some one in his own dialect; im- mediately she heard steps hurrying away. Ra- venclaw returned to his former place ; but as he did not speak, she followed his example. In a short time-it was long to Mignon-an Indian woman appeared with a bundle. "Follow her, and do as she bids you,' d Ravenclaw, pointing to the woman; heI spoke to the latter in his own tongue, who, %k- ing a gesture to Mignon, proceeded to cross the dell. There Mignon perceived a hut and enter- ed it in obedience to the signs of her guide. The woman lighted a pine torch by some embers that were glowing upon a hearth of stone. Thrusting the end of the torch into the earth, she unrolled the bundle. The maiden's cheeks crimsoned-the bundle contained- female wear- ing apparel of Indian style, which might-have belonged to an Indian belle, so elaborately was it made, and so tastefully ornamented with those products esteemed graceful and becoming by tawny dames and red damsels. The Blackfoot woman pointed to Mignon's clothes and said, "Take off," then to the gar- ments which she had brought and added, "Put on." The eyes of Ravenclaw had penetrated her disguise. Was her artifice so transparent to this son of the mountains ? Had nature indeed gift- edhim with keener instincts than the child of cities, the pampered creature of civilization ? Was she a prisoner ? What were his intentions ? Such queries ran rapidly through her mind, while' mechanically she obeyed the commands of the woman. A notable change was soon made in Mignon's appearance, and one that was far from displeas- ing. We cannot picture fully to the reader's imagination the effect of this novel costume (wrought as it was in the height of Indian art), or note the various articles of which it was com- posed, nor is it needful. We will say, however, en passant, that Mignon's small foot did not look less pretty for the substitution of a more elegant moccason, nor her ankle less dainty for the fringed leggins. Her toilet was not considered complete till her cheeks were stained with paint and her hands also. The woman then spread some skins upon-the ground before the tent, and Ravenclaw, seeing her with Mignon, approached. "Daughter of-the paleface," he said,** I am of a warlike race, but I do not war upon women. Now tell me why you are here? I will listen--. my ears are open." Mignon understood at once that the wishes of the man in whose presence she stood were com- mands, and not to be disregarded. " It were better," she answered, with tact, " that I remain silent before a great chief and a mighty warrior, as thy lofty bearing proclaims thee to be. I have -.called thee son of the eagle, because the eagle is a noble bird with a daring spirit, proud plumage, and eyes that are not dazzled by the sun.' Pass on, thou of the strong wing, nor stoop in thyfiight to notice the spar- row that flies not so high, nor emulates thy deeds." "I said my ears were open ; they are, but I hear nothing. Are you speaking, Lilyface ?" he said, somewhat haughtily, " You have called me Lilyface, because the pale blood of my nation betrays itself in my countenance. It is a good name, I like it ; I will teach my people to call me thus should I live to return. Listen, chief; the lodge of Lily- face is away on the border, with an hundred prai- ries and rivers between. She has journeyed many days to reach the hunting-grounds of the Blackfoot. You have asked why she came ? Keep your ears open and yoi shall'hear." Mignon, in that style pleasing to an Indian's fancy, acquainted him with those particulass which influenced her movements. She spoke of Brion; described the character of Pierre Mariot, finally unfolding his entire plan. 'Ravenclaw remained calm and unmoved ; while Mignon watched his face in vain to note the effect of her story. The incidents of the march were not passed over, but related-in their appropriate con- nection. When she finished, Ravenclaw was in possession of the more important matters con- tained in the foregoing pages. "A curse is upon your nation," said Raven- claw. " That curse is the love of yellow dust ; page: 50-51[View Page 50-51] 50 REDPATH. it turns them into greedy wolves ; they howl and " You do well to weep, daughter of a doomed tear each other, and are never at rest. They die people ; even warriors have dropped tears like by the way-their graves lay along the line of women, and wiped them from their faces with march-it is well; the Great Spirit has sent it bloody hands." upon them. - They tremble at the name of Red- Ravenclaws arm fell to his side,,his chin sunk path, his deeds strike them dumb; they become upon his breast, and he stood panting for as women, they grow pale-like squaws when the breath ; another pang would have broken his avenger is abroad ; when the silent feet of the heart. unknown pursues ; when his steps are in the Mignon did not speak-she dared not inter- mountains and in the defiles. Lilyface, so perish rupt a grief so sublime. She waited for his thy race I" kingly spirit to grow calm. When he address- "And wherefore?" asked Mignon. ed her again, his emotion had subsided, and his " Because they are pushing us over the moun- tones were subdued to kindness, almost ten- tains into the sea. Fish live in the sea, but men derness. cannot. But we have turned on our pursuers "But I have spoken to you as if you were a like the hunted buffalo, and will go over the warrior and not a woman. You are not guilty snowy ranges fighting and bleeding, and stain- for the sins of your nation, you shall not suffer. ing the cliffs with blood. Our old men may die, Love has made you daring, or your voice would and be buried in sight of the glorious hunting- not have been heard in this valley. War the ground of the Blackfoot nation; but our young garments you have on, they become your sex men and our children will fall in nrms, or per- b and you are safer in them. Take this, ish ignobly by the sounding shores of the great a ear it always in sight, it will keep you waters." from harm when others are ready to perish." Mignon looked earnestly at Ravenclaw, and The chief gave Mignon a ravenkwrought in believed that the prophet-heart was beating in beads upon a piece of dressed otter skin ; she faa- his swelling bosom. tened it upon her breast.1 " Home and country are as sacred to the red "I will wear it," she said, "in remembrance man as the white. There is but one God, Lily- of a generous chieftain ; it shall be my only face, and he is as much the God of the Indian as talisman." the white man," added Ravenclaw, in tones that - " Go to the wigwams of my nation," resumed thrilled Mignon. Ravenclaw. " Your frame is too tender to go " You are right !" she exclaimed. " You are yonder where the mountain tops are covered my brother ; there is but one humanity, one peo- with snow. Remain, and in a few moons, you ple, one race. The soul of a h fo flashes from shall be conducted safely and 'with an escort o your eyes-the voice of truth speaks through warriors, to one of the great forts of your peo you-the cause of the Indian is just. Yes, ple. This false-hearted Mariot, this craven Ravenclaw, you are leaving a fair heritage-it Frenchman, shall feel the power he has invoked; is slipping from you-your way is indeed over he shall die as he deserves; and his hireling dog. the mountains-your children's graves will be shall share in his downfall. Though I slay my the sea." enemies, I protect the good and the beautifu "And the great and awful Master of Life will -whom the Master of Life has made to love an avenge us on a proud and rapacious nation 1" not to destroy. You are not such as smite m3 cried Ravenclaw, with reverential fervor. " He brethren, your foot is not such as goes on th will smite your people-he will sweep them war-path, nor your voice such as shouts the bat away with the power of his mighty arm. He tIe-cry of the palefaces; therefore you live anc Will remember the wrongs of the red man long speak to Ravenclaw. Think not that justice ani after the red man has become extinct; and in humanity dwell with the white men only; the his tremendous wrath he will arise and shake have habitations in forests, and in the hearts o heaven and earth; your stars shall fall, and your men called savages." bloody eagle shall shriek for help." " The heart of Lilyface beats with gratitude Ravenclaw stretched out his hand, and his ex- the generosity of Ravenclaw fills her with wor pressiopi was sublime. Mignon was awed, she der and admiration; yet she loves her people felt a compassion for the red race that moved nor would remain in the lodges of the Black her to tears. - foot nation, because her father's spirit would REDPATH fL r 1 I -L n y If d y© t- ,d :y Df n- 4 51 grow heavy with sorrow, and her kindred would " We may meet again in the land of souls," mourn her as one dead. Let Lilyface depart in said Mignon. peace to join the hunters of the mountains." "The red man and the white will be forever A cloud rested upon the brow of the Indian. distinct," resumed Ravenclaw. , "I thought to save you from danger, but you " In that country to which we are going, all refuse to be thus saved. Think again. Would nations will forget their earthly differences. you see the tomahawk and scalping-knife crim- Enemies will be reconciled, races will blend, and soned with the blood of your people?- Would kindreds and families and peoples mingle hap- you see them falling like leaves, with no power pily," returned Mignon. to aid them ?" "Never !" exclaimed the chief. "The'soul "God knows I would see no such horrors !" of a red man and the soul of a white will remain exclaimed Mignon. eternally unlike each other; their desires and " Remain, and you shall be as safe as if by instincts are not the same." the fireside of your father's wigwam." " The ,revelations of that mysterious life are "I doubt it not-I doubt it not !" she replied, hidden from our eyes ; we seeedarkly, and "Yet your heart is near the chief of the white know imperfectly ; but the beneficent hand of trappers," said Ravenclaw, after a pause. " Be the Great Spirit will remove thecvail, and at it so, you shall go to him in safety if it takes all death we shall discern more clearly, and think my warriors to conduct you; yet I swear by the more comprehensively. Chief of a powerful na- Great Spirit that not a hair of your head shall tion, adieu till then " fall if you stay.": p"iBe it so-it is decreed ; and what is decreed "You have inspired me with such confidence," cannot be changed. Our paths have been ap- returned Mignon, " that your word is to me like proaching each other since the hour our lives that of the Master of Life. If I were weary, and commenced; but having met, after to-night they you said to me, 'Lie down there' and sleep in will forever diverge. Daughter of the paleface, safety,' I would do so, and rest without troubled a voice calls you away; leave my sight-go, dreams." go, y " Mignon smiled sweetly, and held out her hand Ravenclaw drew his form to a loftier height, to Ravenclaw. He took it and held it a mo- and assumed a sterner expression. Mignon took ment in his own. He did not utter his thoughts, a ring from her finger, andplacing it in his hand, his lips were closed, his face calm, though the said :gt sternness of its expression was gone-but his " It is the gift of Lilyface-keep it." breathing grew quick, shaking his broad chest Ravenclaw held the glittering jewel between with its vehemence. Who shall tell what strong his thumb and finger. feeling was wrestling with his proud spirit, and " This will be more precious to me than my how nobly he mastered himself? ~ life," he replied. "I will wear it on my breast "Lilyface," he said, in tones that welled up where it shall feel the motion of my heart as from his soul, "you make me think better of long as it beats. It shall be with me when I your race. I will not forget you, I will think of sleep and when I awake; it shall go with me to you till'I go to the land of spirits where my battle, my hands shall it when I e .fathers have gone. Look up- and see the starsyastm ad hl graspitweI die. In fathrs avegon. Lok u an se th strsyears to come, should the plough of the white and remember, many moons from now, when you man'disturb my bones, they will cast up this stand again near the wigwams of your kindred gift. And' now go, go ! You shall hear no and behold them shining-that you saw them more the voice of Ravenclaw." once in a far off country, and with the chief of a Mignon hastened away; at the distance of a hunted people beside you. In his dreams Raven- few paces she paused and waved her band, but claw has heard a voice like, thine; but after Ravenclaw stood immovable, and made no sin. to -night it will be heard save in dreams only.ig Lilyface, daughter of my enemies, we meet be-CHAPTER L. cause it was the will of the Great Spirit, weC E part because it.is also his will." ' - BRION'S NUMBERS ARE DIMINISHED. Ravenclaw relinquished Mignon's hand, re- BaRON's camp was astir very early in the peating in a voice of deepest melancholy, "We morning. The hunt was to be resumed, and the met-we part !" hunters wished to be seasonably in the saddle. page: 52-53[View Page 52-53] .I REPATIL Ueadley and his party, excited by their new hopesI and schemes, were among the first to awake. They had dreamed-of a golden harvest, and the " Casa Montezuma." The partisan had not- betaken to his blanket until nearly daylight, and weary with his vigils he was yet slumbering. Mariot was not to be seen. The gold-seek ers, drawn together by sympathy of feeling, were cooking their breakfast very amicably. Inqui- ries' were made. respecting the absence of the grand projector of the new enterprise. Headley only appearing undisturbed by the circumstance, he was naturally looked to for light upon the subject. " He left us last night," said Headley, in -a low tone. " He came to see me before he went, and instructed me what to do. ' If I don't re- turn,' he said, ' before morning, you need not expect me, but fall back 'to the Red Buttes with as many as have the courage to follow you, where we will arrange everything to mutual sat- isfaction.' This was what he told me." Headley arose with a determined look. "I am one that goes, who will follow?"' he added, glancing inquiringly at his friends. "Let us go for our horses," said Conroy. "Agreed, agreedI" cried a dozen voices. " To the Red Buttes-to the Red Buttes !" Buckeye was passing the malcontents, and heard enough to ' understand what was going forward ; he ran and aroused Brion from sleep. " Come, cap'n, it's time for you to act; the Headley and Dorelle party are deserting." Brion was instantly upon his feet and walking toward the horses, which, having eaten their fill, were lying down. "Aint you going' to call out some of the men to help you?" asked Buckeye. " No, I can help myself," said the partisan, firmly. He foundileadley bridling a horse, and others preparing to do the same. " Men," said Brion, " these animals belong to the American Fur' Company; you cannot take them," Headley was confused. " What I" he exclaimed, " have we not ridden - these horses since the hour we left Fort Leaven- worth ?" "So you have had the light of the moon, but I think you do:not oun'the moon," repliedBrion, quietly._ " We have ridden these animals, we have- called them ours, we ae groomed and cared for them, and we shall take them !" rejoined Headley, raising the saddle from the ground. "Stop,!" thundered the partisan, " do not add robbery to unmanly conduct. Everything you see here is in my charge, and I will spend the last drop of my blood in its defence ! o, if you will, in search of the Casa Montezuma, and the fabulous treasures of the Valley of the Gila, but go as you are. You shall not plunder my camp for the benefit of your mad schemes. Had you. made known to me the cause of your dissatisfac- tion, and informed me of your intentions to abandon my party and seek for treasure in a distant region, I would in turn have dealt frank- ly with you; I would have told you that you are being duped by a villain; but this is past, you are unworthy of my confidence. Go and learn by bitter experience that you should deal honestly with all men, nor disregard solemn compacts. I see here thirteen, who cease from this moment to be members of my band, Leave us at once, and never return-unless as penitent and reasonable men desiring protection." "Protection=!" sneered Headley. "By the beard of Joe Smith !" cried Back- eye, who had followed Brion ; " you'll need it !" "Then doubtless we shall call upon you !" returned Conroy. "Shoulder your rifles, my friends," said Headley, to his adherents. "To the Iced Buttes-to the Red Buttes !" shouted others. "I pity these misguided men, my anger yields, to compassion," said the partisan to Buckeye, in a low tone. 'It's sympathy wasted, cap'n ; it isn't in 'em to be wise and prudent, especially while that tall Missourian is among 'em. The quicker you get rid of such fellers the better; for they aint fit for your business, and never will be," answered Buckeye, " Though indignant at your conduct, I regret to see you rushing blindfold into new difficulties and dangers. Men, let me warn you to shun Dorelle, and make your way with as much secre- cy andexpeditionas possible-to Fort Laramie," resumed Brion, addressing the gold-seekers once more. " You speak of difficulties and dangers as though there were none attending your expedi- tion, and we were not at this moment turning our backs upon them," said Conroy, "Once more, my friends-shoulder a m- march ! If we cannot have our horses, we can E 1 lPATH. go on foot, and trust to luck-and Monsieur Dorelle." The gold-seekers fell into marching order, and moved off in quite a spirited manner. "Dim-sighted fools !" exclaimed- Buckeye. "They are marching to destruction 1" " Or to join the, Rocky Mountain Fur Com- pany," added Brion.r "They wont do it, even if the alternative be presented ; they've got their minds puffed up with ideas of treasure and sudden wealth, and that's a hard notion to get rid on. They'll in- sit on the original project." "As long as they think there's any truth in it," said Brion. "And Mariot wont tell 'em he's lied, in a hurry." " Well, they have provoked their fate what- ever it may be. My party is minus thirteenmen; thirteen from seventy-two leaves fifty-nine." "You'ye lost thirteen men, but your band isn't weakened; it's strengthened; because the remainder are disciplined somewhat, have ex- perience, and can be commanded. Men that wont be governed aint the kind for your purpose, cap'n."--. - WhileS this scene' was transpiring, the main body of the party were quietly eating breakfast around -their respective'fires. The sun was rising above the level of the eastern prairies ; he came up like a ball of liquid tie. Soft and grateful zephyrs, bearing aro- matic odors, breathed around the mountaineer as he walked thoughtfully about the encampment, giving orders. The events of the morning had induced him to change his mind in regard to hunting the buffalo. His camp was in,' a situa- tion too much exposed to be left in charge of a small party, which would necessarily be the case' should he send out twenty or thirty i of his band to hunt. He therefore formed the resolution of moving forward to a canon a few miles farther on. Once in possession of the. canon he could hold his ground against a large body of enemies with half his company; but he was :suspicions that it was occupied by savages, who were wait- ing a favorable opportunityto attack them, either while'they were hunting or scattered on the march, and unprepared for resistance. ' his suspicion was produced by what he had heard when listening-to the conversation of Mariot and Beavertaker, and the -suggestions previously made by the former in regard to his route, he having advised hint 't keep near the tirountais 4_ 53 Accompanied by Buckeye, Brion mounted and rode toward the canon. - It was a fixed pin' ciple with the latter, always to take the'odst f danger, and be the foremost in situations requir- ing 'courage-and skill. When' approaching a place where an enemy *ai known 'to be pona cealed, he asked no one to solve the matter, but settled the question by his own personalbravery and tact. If the front was theatened he wasIn the front, if the .rear, he Was in the rear, taking at once the-responsibility and the risk. "Get up,'Flash!" said Backeye, giving his horse'the rein. While the parties were galloping ^ toward the canon, the clatterbf hoofs arrested their atten- tion.' The sounds came from beyond a small strip of timber forty or fifty rods ahead, and pres- ently two persons turned the wood and drew in sight. " Ingins !" exclaimed Buckeye. "No," replied Brin "one is a negro.r "And' the other'is an Ingin woman or gal, or somethin' of that natur." "It would seem so," said the partisan, ob- serving the advancing persons sharply. "Atall events, their intentions are not -hostile,""he added. " By the beard of Smith !" cried Buckeye, " that nigger feller is ridin' the same hoess that that youngster rode' who fell in with ius tetherr day." " The resemblance is striking, I confess," re- turned'Brion. " There's no resemblance about it i1's the same," rejoined the other. "It is very possible," rejoined the partisan., The objedts of these. remarks approached.' "Are youi lookin', cap'n ?" asked Buckeye, i a low voice. " am," said Brion. - "Isn't she oncommon ! what a' efi what a figure -! what an eye !f' ' " Handsome, certainly," returned the'patstis. "Bewitchin', cap'n !" added Buckeye, wit increasing enthusiasm * " Beware that you 'do hot fall 'brdove with ahs Indian'beauty," said Brion, playfully. "I sha'n't make ,o-promises,"cause love 'Ilge where it's sent. Flash, ou rascal, prick ,up your ears and cut ai'caper P' Flash,-in obedien'ce;to his- master's- niitd it, d. quickened perchance by the spur, reare19aeo coldd eltisheya' c "Now's ytiame'a."p etinug the I page: 54-55[View Page 54-55] e n rnresin. Put on the ion a~hp .;4 hge I gin gels are. smazin fond of hors p rip.", " x a, 4otters1" exclpired Buckeye, S donideilone of the heathen.riptiles. S aJ:e s s us on idewg. jes' like? a convaged stiau female. Begr of the prophet Smith! b adI itsng'la l" "She vit g~racef t l By, ' re," said Brion. *a queenj" quqth ,Buckeye. If the appearange;of the Indian maiden pro- 4wped such a marked e~ect"upon Buckeye, what must have been the emotions of Brion,. who be- lievedthat in her he recognized the face and form of Mignon ' ;The -wonderfal disclosures of the previous night had prepared the- way to such46 recognition, Havipg seen the,features'of Ba , he was niot one to, forget them; and he was well assured by the few words he heard him utter on that occasion, that he would never be found ,fur from his young mistress. The bosom 9f the mountaineer was agitated by doubt, love, fear, admiration. Mignos approached, while Balaau-chscked his horse and,-fell fin the rear. Wbiei near enough she raised hereyes and asked. "Is not tis Captain Brion, thepartisan of the American Fur Company -" " es ' said Brion, respectfully., "I bWe that to say which must be ,my. excuse for appearing befpre you in thisfgarb, and under circumstances so peculiar," she added, averting her eyes, her cheeks ' ecoming-suddenly suffused. Brion's brave heart, beat rapidly. The jnod- esgy aid heroism of Mignon charmed him, - He thought of whatshe had done, and the dangers shd.had dared. , Andfor what had she tempted such. iperle I The, qpqery came with stunning fgr ,p. sWhat but, love mgkeswoman bold ? " 'ou need no excuse for appearing before Ben Brion," he replied, with, warmth. "Your wiW shalmy ommands, you have only to name them. I beg of you to be frank, and trust ~ ~ wen imet: established an ac Mignon looked inqfliringy at the partisan tc kw a; ierprd&p ha4 other significance tha what they seene4to have upon their:aurface. 'f;My comayncations will consist simply o - gew~m a oh jI fear will appear -inde finite and unsatisfactory," Mignon resumed., i p' re ,, nas do injustice- orpy na "So I shall endeavor to persuade zmyse .")Aggg Q , wi ;ptavtiing ingenuous nress.. ".I loge to think well 'of, humanity ; I have pleasure in seeing poor human nature ex alted. I will-to employ a.Jewish simile-deal frankly and truly with thee, though -it may cost me pail and confusion. You wonder why I am here ; it is'to warn you of the danger Of which I have spoken, this is why I am before you.", "For me !" exclaimed Brion, astounded, at such ,a declaration. ucarh me; the danger which threatened you compromised the honor of one who is dear to me," rejoined Mignon. If the declaration she had first made filled him with hope, the last avowal dispelled it. One' who-was " dear to her !" Ah, that must be a lever or a husband! "You are the victim of a wicked scheme, which has for its object the destruction of your party. The man to whom belongs the paternity of this plot, will not fail through softness of heart or scruples of conscience." " May I ask his name ." " I cannot tell you-it would involve another. If Ican-defeat him without exposing him, Iwill." "lHe is Pierre Mariot," said Brion. Mignon grew pale. "It is too true," she answered. " You' have discovered the secret." I even know you ,"resumed the mountaineer. Atignoa looked up in alarm. " Will'you speak -my name?" she added. "Mademoiselle Belimar ; those to whom friendship gives the right to address you familiar- ly call yo Mignon." Mignon's face became crimson. A lovelier countenance could not have been presented to the gaze of the mountaineer.'- His sympathies, his love, his soul itself seemed to pass over to a Mignon. He idealized her perfections, he spirit- r ualized her beauty. The conquest which began at Westport was, now complete. Mignon be- t came all that was divine in woman. Brion - wished to kneel at her-feet and do homage. S"You are right," she responded, pensively. o "And doyou remember that we once met?" n " Well, it was at night; you laid me under ob- ligations which I shall not forget." f "And did you imagine that 1 could forget, - Mademoiselle Bellmar ? .Pardon mry boldness, but your idea has been with me ever since. I L. have 'thought of- you on the march-I have dreamedof you while sleeping on the-prairies. i n you are here before me ! 0, this cannot he s reality--this is the veriest hallucinationI" At first Brion fixed his eyes on the maiden's Mignon was embarrassed she withhe a e uto tle at his own teieity, he-allowed Lion of the truth to screen him frotthe sinktill, they rested hjpan Mignon's tion of guilt.,, nP in her cheeks andd blood glowing " chanced to hear," e said, "a enve ind reekn al ancing through her swelling tion not intended form veins preternaturally quick. =t no atitonded foray my ears,2;ri~h rmade ^n " Thereawillb6b party to l purposes. Bginpopsessiop of lThen ere wil time for gallant speeches his secret, it was naturalIshoui ' i when we meet under different circumsances," mcy father." , 08 t she resum ed, w ith dignity, casting o her adrm' or i ly weakness. nns.,~mx Very true," said Brian, "and. for his eI Ieraeado doubt not you have accomplished this perl no m e pardon, but I never speak what I do pilgrimage." not mean." "Yes, it is so you constre e "And what is it that you mean ?"she asked, generously. I would do muciaNhr t with asperity. my father's name linkedwihnfm. ."Since uaewihifm" ,,- Sinw e nouare offendedI dare not confess. "That expression does you much honor, an d you for the raises you still higher inmy 48tem. undesered exertions you hate made in my be= done all you can do, it is probe a half. Mademoiselle, I know not how to clothe to return; is it so?"at you I flngs o graiyute ir ds id "I put myself -under your pro teion:.nntil Iwilsaeyoutetoble," said Mignon, shall be so fortunate 40 to meet ,a- pa'retuim with a smile, extending her hand to himn ins from the mo unateas tohee I a y beurn. "c'I swear by this hand to be th ing from voed t he mountains, t , he alalf;go back of swarbythsishandto behe most'devoted " To afford you every assistance in m of your filends-to sacrifice life, everything to will be but a meagre teatimoal ofm r That is mu and unaskedto tude. I now have duties to perform requfrg "Ttc i muc, ad , to did my immediate attention ;but I will firstacordc not come' 'like love-lorn damsel seeking adven- you to ,.p." 9 ode turous knight." dIs it far, captain ?" 'Mignon pronounced these words with a smile "Yuseyne hen lps, bt ttee You see yonder hill! it is at th'rgtO on he "is u in a tone somewhat indicative that." hl~i s'ttergt~ of injured pride, which the partisan did not fail "Then I need not trouble you .to to o stice th.B alaats w ill easil find it " . favor,"heish no though feelings not to your Brian demurred at this arrangement, but fore sd, entertain for' you non was firm, insisting that the'wa a you have rone rest Never I trust, will and their acquaintance should notco e mne o blush for word or act of with taking him from his duties" o r ressidgre h step you have taken to ward "Beside," she added, looking kindly.at the off p g anger. chance has ahdy made black, "Balaam is as good as 7 treheie 'j imendsq ''wth e nature of the peil that laan as fatterd shyhisbg ir et impendsfMariot is indeed a villain, and it is dectaid himself "host''in the y arm truly unfortunate that a man' like' Monsieur mistress, Belar your father, of whose, name I have " There's a cre'i among us, heard honorable mention,' should be congeeted eye, "that qoe of us can gua a nt. " with him in business~yeas'" RedpsthI" said Mignon. S No orte' can regret it more deeply than I it "Tha vaithe 'aManrn has long been a source of pain."' '" 't. ed atthe nt'ramean "I am willing tockyeolv o.ieur" ar Bc . fear Redpath een; . rcpti ipaon in' ts sheme for the charm," Mdgmon rejoin. destruction of my band,fand rmy ";too Wehred g i d cnharr 'me that .emnloyers"'are t ''" many,c. s ha -1 Y",o do-him no more than jttice i 3are jes' alkilated to turn a feller's head tat al.iosththe ' 1e most," Buck yp replied, astinga rtiv'hic ec to ." I fer to a special h ' i," r "e Was acquainted with those d egs, it blushing, which willgua r sume ghon danger. page: 56-57[View Page 56-57] IDPATH. "For me there's no charm like your beauty, ils, and to protect that, I'd stan' afor a army of savage i-igtiles like Redpath." - you are sincere, I'm sure ! so I thank eeme berretonsbear wellto theright. to'iei N ur, I-w beith you ,soon:. 5n'hn toialam m "Tell my men that you met their leaderand he expects them to treat this yroaug lady ; with 'respect." , 1Yes maia' -I'll'spoke dat to 'em' said emseBalaam. '; 3rt, I wacorrect," affirmed' Buckeye, when (Igiti h*was out of hearing, "about' the black I 'U t "'kyou were, really," Bridn replied. Ae it IrIshould like to know," added welll ?~ yefeungster's name thatused to ride the w wicir now carries that dusky heathen." a' reviewi. d iOnfess that you did not ;like "MHe 'appeared'fopish; but atween you and I, detitr'uAted thaut'it was a&woman the minute I pb; my eyes on .hi" " I cannot give you credit for so mucb per= spcacity. ;Ead1 you been suspicious of her sex, Yqnu\leari g would hvae been less,'repulsive. Your gallantry Icannot doubt, since you passe.' yitco pli ets upgn yonder 'young lady so adsitly If you go on in that way, ~my ait u tiyou wl prov a dangerous T 6pap;er drew up is shoulders signifi- ii dn't'tea'you should git ahead of; me, though hou're very flooent i speech' but h , ' beardof mith ! you made a plump eaigration 1" "Ie;was not guilty of such folly," said "That olcocnmon'eretur woid a ke any man commit inliset peye t,°ii'll8 i4ii5'aforenme for 'the' next"tventy- fourhours like di'sonsA p oP "a not," said the xyounta iieer,4Y, e a kfaire'hands, y persisted are' lieiving, iend" "And her smile is ofa heavenliuatu " i B quiet,ook yonder just whes '168C t bushes skirt the plateau, and tell me if you -see aught thatia egpiciousV" " I see a ii otionlpss object, that seems from this distance-like a stick or stone." " Watch it a moment." It moves a little; it's a rptile:-one of. the ouregenerate perductions ofathis great kentry 1" " Let us move that way;, perchance we may sijir{ p a nest of them. I have known one to stand like a fixture, while several of his com- panions were concealed in the surrounding thickets. It may be thus in the present in- stance." Bending somewhat to the left that their ad- vance, might be covered by, an arm of timber reaching out into the, prairie, the wary trappers approached the suspicious object, which, after all, might prove r . wolf or a buffalo ; for, the space intervening, wasyet considerable.,Keep.. ing a careful watch in every direction where they supposed it possible an enemy could be con- cealed, theygooU turned, the timber; but that which hd drawn their scrutiny was no longer ins sight itlhad vanished in the wood, sank into the eartj, or was hidden in the grass. Je were seen, you perceive," said Brion. " Our design was fathomed before we changed our course. But what is this upon this tree . A human figure cayed in the bark !i' The monuntainer rode to the tree and ex- amined the carving which was yet fresh, o gtten minutes have elapsed since the edge odfi. kfe eft heg~)ies/fs1d Brion. - ei"Notfive," aid Buckeye. , "The sap, yet o f-m the wounds. New this wasn't phade for nothi'; there's meanin' to it, as there -is about everytbin' an Ingin does." alMosiblyit was cut, merely for ,amusement," replied the partisan. "$ No, sir ; depend on't there's, some deviltry in it." - Tehandiwork ofRedpath," nsweredD4on, with a smile and an incredulouslook. y t " It iouii4' be strange, though I . 'n't, think t ie c r etunr fin~s time ,for much, fancy-work, of- Sthis partic'lar dec~ition.' 'It strikes euckeye, thaty9 realy fear this incomprehensibe edpath. "Fear is'a word I don't veryrmuch like, cap'n* even from y I'll thank you to find thmaena who'llcall ',m ,coward to my;face. As-for I Redpath, he's like nobodyelse-a sort of Ingia devil that. baies the wigetOf us; bht Iin'mnot afraid 'of him-no, not by no means';aand in fat I'should like to meet him face to face as .o brave man mneets another. I oul 'pu as go American rifle ball through hispbody; I won kill him as I would a wolf, and his accursed a and mystery would perish with him." The mountaineers were bending over the horses' necks looking atdtheifigure ; the air wa slightly disturbed, and something passed betwee the adsruc te object at which they wer looking with a sharp concussion. Both instine tivey dew bck- log arrow was quivering i thetree. For a moment Brion was too muc astonished to speak or to act. "By the beard of'Smith !" said Buckeye. Thesound of his voice aroused the partisan putting'spurs to his horse he dashed toward the timber.- "By heavens I" he muttered. " I will make an attempt to solve this mystery." He urged his horse into the wood, which being free from underbush, offered but little i'mpedi ment ; he galloped through and around it,and came back with his animal heated and foaming. "Why do ' you sit motionless Why' not make an effort to find this invisible archer asked the trapper. "A sense of gratitude fastens me here, cap'n." "A sense of gratitude IIdo not understand." "It is jes' here,: consider, and you'll' perceive that.the"arim that sent that shaft directly to the head of that figure, could as easily have sent it through your head or mine." "That is a very just conclusion, Buckeye. I did not pause to think of nice points ; but indeed .I could scarcely' find iin my heart to draw a hair sight on one, who, having my life in his, power'did not take it. In this you have acted wisely.. -Yes, the eye that aimed that ball could have aimed it at a human' brain instead of an insentient one like that. What a narrow bound- ary lies between us and death 1" . ",Scarcely wider tian the edge of my hunting' knife." ede.f y;unin "Ah, luckeye, we must travel that trail sometime!"' "A strange road-a strange road ! And it's been used a ood da, rtoo." "Death is at times, a cold and awful mystery to me,, but not always. What is it to yoeI" "I expectmy mind is dark and ignorant oine,' but it t'oo often seems to, me'an eternal sleep. Perchance, I shall go back to elemental diet, and be as .I was a 't eandtoelarenago l little matter in moio o c" a .571 ne "That is not the most cheerful belief imagina- )d ble, but far better than a future of pait" Id While Brion was thus conversing his hands rt were not idle ; he was cutting the arrow fm the tree with his hatchet, which, when extractedlid ir examined with a feeling of intense curiosity. is The sharp, polished, tapering steel head, deli. n cately small, the long smooth shaft attalied 'e had for him a peculiar interest, connected as they e- were with the fate of Townsend' and Minten, n, Stringer and Grenier. h "It is wondrously well wrought, 'he remarked. "And marvellously well sped, too," added' Buckeye. j "I will keep it as a memento of Redpath." e "Also to make you think, perhaps, thai'1e= mate to it istkept for you; and you will some- etime receive it." The canon was now near' at hand, and as they drew in sight of it, the partisan saw a hurnan' - form standing upon the summit of a high. elig, I which he quickly pointed out to the tripper. 'The sun was shining upon the jagged elevation glo- riously, making the figure appear as if clothed in garments of flame. He gazed down 'upon the' horsemen a moment, waved his hand and dis- appeared. Brion looked inquiringly at his' coiipanion. "It may be the evil one' himself; he shoe li'e a pillar of fire '" suggeste'd'iukeye. "His majesty has a majestic figure, then.' "He can assume any shape, undoubtedi." The mountaineers entered the cano, passed through it; it sheltered no visible enemy, anl they turned their horses' heads toward the en- camprent of the previous night, Brion entirelyy absorbed in thought. "Do you know,' said Buckeye;'.interrut ing his reverie, "that Redpath is not, the only ee among us that is dangerous 7 Thereis one who aims not at the head but at the heart, and 'her arrows go straight'as a rifle ball." Brion .writhed' under the trapper's raillery , butt deemed it wisest to keep silent.' "And yet this fair archers th sgli the doesn't aim. at the head, affects 'the, brains not,~ 'little with her pretty arrows, which are launched froth her sparklin' eyes.,' The mountaineer confessed, internally,tit there was: truth in this metaphor, inasmuch: as the mnidiously wounding weapons'of' lknon were vibrfting beneath his huiing flocktthe ,verycentre of a great and aetie eule'ei RItDPA'L. page: 58-59[View Page 58-59] -53 BEDP4Wg CAIPTE X. ho Si' A SACRIFICE TO THE CORN-SPIEIT. se fIfrgON a i the beek intended to follow the v reetions of Brigp to the letter; -but notwith- at standing hi instructions to keep to the right, #4aam unwittingly took the left aide of the hill. th T oey had made half the circuit of thebill be- " fom the scor sequencesof their inattention were bi apparent. A yell recalled Balsam to the outer C waking world, rudely, it must be confessed, but g eetumaljy. Mignon was the fir~t to realize the ce misfprtune that ha4 befallen the. She perceiv- ed aroun.,her a circle of dusky men, armed with w spears, knives and guns,; she had fallen into an r sappgsende of Indians.. The discovery was one to, try the flrmest nerves. Balsam, seeing a red 'c hand grasp his'horse's bridle, thought it time tv, bestir himself With a sweep of his long arm he t filed the o ender, then disengaging a small axe t whie'ras secgred at his saddle,.and in theuse b o hc he was practiced, he struck ,down anothersavagegend prepared'for a sturdy de-q fene of histeistress. Enraged at his resistance, they swarmed upon him in overwhelming num-s bed, ith loud, vindictive whoops. For a time the giant strength of the black pre- vaile4,:his weapon gleaming around him in rapid is,. catering his roes; but anon a hatchet hurled by a ga~rrior took effect upon his head.. The faithful uegro casa despairing look at Mig-' nona, nd lost his seatin the saddle but when t1g ,the.ground he sprang up and shook him-' seiflike a lign; then, even, Mignon believed he S iight lrove Unconquerable. He struck a few bopws, then eapk upop one knee, yetcontinuing' to resist and defy them in his own peculiar way. Per" ging hatbis strength was failing, he turn- e i, eyes toward hisbeloved mistress.' The redaniggers bali fined me-God breps ye, missy!i" he ;said, and fell forward upon his fae. The infuriated -savagesgvould have mane gls$and mutilated his body, but their chief com- manded them topist, adding that, eowarde wight he heckedand cut in piees but not brave en who sell: their lives dearly.' This umane Inden, however, did not waive the established usage of his race, and in a moment held up poor Balaam's scalp At the sight ,of this reeking troph 'Mignon swooned.: When she recovered, shewas seated at the foot of a tree, hernbodysup- poited by the r. The natives were grouped together a few paces distant,.gpeaking earnestly in their own dialect, which-pounded harsh an horrible to Mignon. There seemed to be a diri' on of opinion among them which was finally ttled, as she judged by the altered tone of their, oices. The chief came and looked at ,her tentively. "You wear," said he in English so broken at we shall not attempt, to give, it .verbatim, the garb of a princess of the Blaolfoot nation, at your skin is pale. The Blackfoot and the row are enemies; they hate each.other-,--they o to war and take scalps--they put their prison-, nr to death. Palefaced woman, you must die'" "Do the warriors of. the Crow nation wage rar upon women ?" asked Mignon; striving to ally her courage. " They 'destroy their enemies," returned the hief. "Eneugeg are those who take the war-path; he women of the paleface nation never go upon, he war-path; they love 'peace4and remain at home." "Then why art thou here 1" said the chief, quickly. "Not to take life but to save it," ,ignon an- swered. "Like all your craven race, you shrink from, death." "And why should I notI Am I not young, and does no _-the young heart cling to exis- tence ? Women dia'well when the treat Spirit' calls; but they draw back from violence and blood." "The Grsat Spirit calls you now. "I cannot hear him." = "le calls you through my voice; he bids you get ready." "The Orews are cowards or they would not kill wonin ;,brave men hold such deeds in hor- ror," rejoined Mignon. "'ale maiden, it is-better to die young than old. If you go to the land of souls now you wilt remaigli young and beautifWl forever ; but if you live till you are old and'wrinkled, you will enter, that country as such, and continue so." "Hear me: I have a father whoa 'has much. gold'; he -has .a' trading-house beyond yonder mountains where he keeps the hi ngs most.val nqd by, red. men; i;go there with me and you shall-be made rich abme all your tribe." The Indian paused a moment as if meditating upon what hq :hadheard, andt Mignon begsn to hope. , "Yug sellhaye guns that never miss their aim, nmsun t oigna last your life-time, blankets' f that defy the snows of the coldest winter, an horses that are swifter than the antelope an stronger than the buffalo.. With these you ca make war upon the Blackfeet, and' conquer them." " Palefaces have artful tongues, and the re man cannot tell when they speak the truth What you say sounds well, but you might lea us into the strong forts of the whites where w should be slain by the thunder of the great gins I have listened to you too long. The corn-spiri requires an offering, and he will not be cbnten save with a young and beautiful maiden such a thou art." " Will the manner of my death be painful ? Mignon asked. "White maiden, it will be painful, but.not o long duration," said the Crow. "In the lan of souls you will forget your sufferings and re joice to see the corn growing green and tall t feed our hungry children." "It is horrible !", exclaimed Mignon. "It is nought compared to the torture 'o three days, when twelve fies are lighted, and i the arts of inflicting pain are exhausted," he re plied, his face glowing with savage ferocity a' the recollection of the scenes he had witnessed. With these words he'left her and issued'orders which she could not understand. Presently sh was placed upon her horse, and the party 'set ofl toward the mountains. Mignon turned' a last lingering look toward the hill where she had ex pected to find friends and safety. She submitted to her captors with the helpless passivity of despair, her bowed head and droop- ing form testifying to her deep despondency. ' The Indians did not address her, and- the trail to the nearest Crow village was-traced silently. Tallbear, 'the chief, kept near her person, setting ai eample of taciturnity which was followed by his 'warriors. - They pressed forward without stopping, though their progress. was slow. The gloomiest night that Mignon ever experienced approached, and-with it came clouds and a shower of rain, attended with thunder and lightning. Tallbear ordered a halt; watching the heavens with anx- ious expression; "The Great 'Spirit- is angry," said Mignon, hoping- to turn the' elemental strife to her ad vantage. "Yes;"answered the chief, "he is angy bet cause the i* delayed." ' "Not so; u4br the reason that such a feari- d ful rite is contemplated. While- rebuking 'your d wickedness with the thunder ahd lightniighe at' n the same time gives yotd ain 'rdef esh y'lbur ir corn, and prove to you that he can make'li'row without your aid." d At that instant there was a terrific expldsidr . and the red, - quivering lightning 'played around' d them. The ground trembled 'with the violence e of the concussion. ' A large' tree was shiveied s. from its topmost branches to the roots,i iean [t Indian wiho had been standing beneathr 'it as t stricken lifeless. Tallbear Was awed. Igne-ant' s of nature and her laws, thutider and lightning to him had supernatural origin, and indicated the displeasure of the Master of Life. " Behold," cried Mignon, "'the avenglida arm f of God! He has 'turned his hand against you; d he has smitten one of your brave's. He is just, - he does well; to him I comihend my soul. Red o man, hear'his awful voice -and 'tremble! is ' mighty car is rolling through theshies, the heavens, quakb. He is over' our head e' is f seeing us-his irea are burning in' the air- ith , 'dreadful vehermence." - While Mignon was speaking Iambedit fiaries t darting from above played around her- pale cheeks. Tallbear recoiled, ' conternelatin het' s with pallid visage and parted lips. S "fPaleface woman, thou art a great medicine! " F he exclaimed. t "I am," she resumed, with more impressive emphasis, "but a perishable creature 'like thee, but I have skill in 'interpr tig the 'vill'of the Great Spirit. I know what 'he 'desires of 'bis children ; aria there is thet within that'telfsine when his power*ill go forth 'in fedrfelffdiry to rebuke' blood-thirsty warriors,' and : y lo *aro- gant chieftains. Tallbear, listen ! the Mstterf.of Life threatens!' Hear' his stern 'menace in' the affrighted 'heavens t" The maiden paused, and peal oftcbal shook the. mountains, while 'electrical ash's blazed blendingly around theirsutmnsits; streatning'down into the valley below in rediliot chains: , - It is thus," continued' -Mignon, with soleiit- nity, " that the'God'f'the whitee .man and the red manifests his'indignationsand l isriight!'! 'The" braved threwr'thtehselves prostrate itpmn' the earl; Co'cring 'theft;ir" s with-theiribind 'k Tallbear: n 'naie 'stariding, she bowet'hit head ipon his breast seemissively. White woman if tf6 I'M ter of Life s angry , what' shall Tallbear db'to thrn aside 'his 'dis' pleasure !" heasked. ' REEDPAT. page: 60-61[View Page 60-61] 0 BED AT. ##I will ask him," said Mignon, closing her eyes;and crossingher arms'upon her breast ; she remained silent a' few moments, then addressing the chief : "The answer is (looking steadily at Tallbear), offer normore :bloody sacrifices to the corn-spirit, for there is but one God that presides over all thingsgand he is -the Master of Life." "Inquire yet again, and ask him what I shall do with the paleface woman ?" Mignon perceived that all depended on the skilfulness of her reply; 'she had reached the most delicate and critical point of her purpose. She closed her eyes and crossed her arms again, to gain time to form a fitting answer. "F'ind a woman among your people who has lost a daughter, and let her adopt this child of the paleface," she said. This reply was judicious, for the suspicions of Tallbear might have been aroused; had .she de- man her liberty at once. °' 1lsend forour medicine men, and they shall fast three days and see if the Great Spirit will confirm this," returned the Indian. The Master of Life speaks but once to man; he never repeats ." exclaimed Mignon, with a dignity axed earnestness wondrous to Tallbear. "IThat is well; he never repeats," 'he said, then looking searchingly at his captive, added : "And he never denies !" "And he never denies," repeated Mignon, in the same tone. "But it becomes the awful Deity to remain silent when he has once declared his sovereign will-to man." "Speak again to the Great Spirit and ask if the prisoner will attempt to escape ?", Mignon saw at once the subtlety of this pro- position.' " Ihave done;" she said;,"his presence is departing-his chariot-wheels are rolling over - the mountains. Be content and humble. Speak to )ae no'more-I am dumb." Mignon turn- ed her back to Tallbear, and assumed: her former silent and .hopeless attitude. Tallbear walked away and seated himself apart from his braves, apparently in a thoughtful mood. t . Inv half an -hour the storm passed ; the rain ceased falling, the thunder was heard ; faintly rumbling at a great distance, while the lightning blazed against the .far-off sky with diminished brightness. the party went on again, and in two hours drew in sight-of a Crow village, in view of which. they halted, it being their custom when they had lost warrio-s not to enter their .village on their return, without an invitation from the friends of the slain. The dogs gave notice of their ap. proach, and in a short time the sleepy natives were astir, making suitable preparations to re- ceive their warriors, who, after considerable de- lay, were formally invited to enter the town. Mignon, though, an object of much curiosity, was treated with respect. - The tent which the unfortunate Balaam had succeeded in securing when his mistress left Callard's encampment, was taken from the horse upon which it had been, carefully packed, and set up for her exclusive use by Tallbear, who clearly intended to treat her with distinction until her fate should be de- cided by the "medicine men." The latter were called together early in the morning. The chief made them acquainted with his original intention of sacrificing Mignon to placate the corn-spirit; with what subsequently occurred during the storm of, thunder, and his, own determination to refer the matter to those skilled in the ways of the invisible powers. "Now go,"'he adde, " and have lodges built in some lonely spot, and fast according to your custom, and thus learn the will of the Manito of, your people." Whether it was that the " medicine men" had no relish for fasting three days, or whether they believed they had been already instructed, we are not able to avow; but they declared that the Master of Life had enlightened their mindA in dreams and visions ; and after a little time, if left undisturbed, they would make known his. wishes. The three medicine men accordingly, withdrew to a lodge which every person was for- bidden to approach. , recently Mignon heard the sound of an Indian drum and frantic yells proceeding from the lodge, and shuddered to think such wretches were to decide her fate They continued their orgies some . hours---a period of dreadful anxiety to Mignon, Who, solitary in her tent, was awaiting the conclusion of the rites. Mignon's father was a Catholic ; but she had been educated in the Protestant religion, in har- mony with the views -of her deceased-,mother, and she now sought the consolations of the Christian faith. She petitioned God with that contrite fervor that her condition -was so well calculated to awaken,seeking that calm strength, that unshrinking fortitude he only can itspart.- " Daughter of the. paleface, come !". said a, voice. " RED2PATH. It was Tallbear who spoke ; he had come to conduct her to hear the verdict of the med ejne men. She found the Indians assembled on a plateau near their village, in close neighborhood to a large field of corn. She followed with mod eat and melancholy mien,: her beauty and grace attracting much attention and remark. The medicine men were in a circle formed by the principal men of the village ; next the latter were the braves, while the third and last ring was composed of women and children-a motley, clamorous rabble. When Mignon reached the central circle where the three prophets were awaiting her, Tallbear addressed them: "What," he asked, "says the Manito of the Crow nation ?" "-That the love of life is strong, and all wish to live to enjoy summer and sunshine." Mignon heard the rejoinder, and though she had made up her mind. for the worst, hope re- vived a little. "Summer.and sunshine 1" These words had a meaning they never before possess- ed. She could not refrain from raising her eyes toward the glorious luminary-the eternal lamp of nature. The refulgent beams gleamed as brightly upon her as in the days of her childhood, before she understood the meaning of the word. " death." A gentle breeze from the west blew on her face and toyed with her hair. " 0, God !" she exclaimed, "why can I not enjoythis forever!, Why hast thou placed the grave before mortals, and called them to a bap- tism of pain ?" "Go on," said Tallbear. "And he added, moreover," 'resumed the spokesman of the medicine men, " that he speak- eth in thunder and fire ; that he createth all things, and causeth the Indian corn to grow." " I am saved !" thought Mignon.'. " God will' spare my youth!" The prophet went on. " But lest he might some time forget-the corn, he has given it in charge of a -powerful spirit whose duty it is to watch over it night and day. The paleface woman has said that the Master of Life- loveth not blood, butit was the God of the white man that told her so." " There is but one God !" said Mignon, who saw her last hope passing away., "The red man does not serve the God of the pale faces," returned the prophet. "Every na- tion has its deity, and no, two are alike. We, follow the voice of the Great Spirit, and no other will we hear. Behold what he has given us ! 61 Look at the boundless hunting-grounds, the mighty plains, the shaded valleys, the green forests which he has kindly bestowed upon us. White woman, the Indian did not make himself, but one greater than he made him with all his instincts.: Can his nature change ? Can he be other than he is ? Who faults him will fault the great and eternal Master of Life. See me-re- gard me-study me ! I am what I am, not be- cause I had any voice in it, but because a will stronger than mine existing before I had con- sciousness, willed it so. My face is red--my na- ture is not soft and weak like yours ; it does not love cities and the arts of your people, it has joy in the hunt and on the war path. And why? Because it wasso' decreed. I am an Indian, and I thank the Great Spirit that I am ! Thus you see the power that created me reconciles me to be what I am, therefore he is wise. It is so with you. You will act true to your nature, and I shall to mine. The manners and cus ns, of nations differ. Our ways seem barbarou you and yours are contemptible to us. Pale girl, the corn-spirit is thirsty, we will give him drink." "Last night the Great Spirit sent rain," said Mignon. " He drinks not water," said the prophet. " 0, it is vain to struggle against fate !" ex- claimed Mignon. " Vain indeed !" added the Indian, in a deep, sepulchral voice. " Could those towering moun- tains have resisted the will, that placed them there for a barrier between us and the sea ? Could the snow have helped falling upon their summits ? Could you have struggled against his hand when he took up the dust to form you ? Know, 0 fair daughter of a hated race, that all things are ordered, and not anything can change. It being destined that you shall die, how can mortal power make you live? Cease to strug- gle, and meet calmly a fate that you cannot re- sist ; this is the lesson taught by everything in nature. Because you are a woman, and your flesh is tender and shrinks from pain, the Mas- ter of Life sends you an easy death." The prophet nade a sign to Tallbear, who ap- proached with a small cord composed of the in- ner bark of a tree. For an instant Mignon experienced a fearful shrinking and a sickening agony of spirit ; but conquering measurably her weakness, she looked at the chief and demanded in a voice quite free from agitation, "What is the manner of my death ?" page: 62-63[View Page 62-63] 62 RDPA'T. "It is quick and easy ; an arrow will pierce your bosom, and you will be in the spirit-land of your fathers before one of yonder clouds can pass over the sun's face," he replied. " It is well; I am ready, but do not mutilate my person-bury my body on one df yonder high cliffs where the same sun that shines upon the wigwam of my father may shine on my ashen," said Mignon, submissively. Tallbear-came near to- bind her hands. " Take away the cord; since there is to be no torture, no protracted agony, to bind me were useless. Tell me where to stand, and I will present my breast to your marksman." " Pale girl, you have courage," said Tallbear, in a low tone. "I would save you if I could, for your voice has a wondrous melody in it, and your beauty is like that of the spirit-maidens in the far land of souls. - Maiden, the arrow that enters your bosom will give pain to the heart of Tallb . But the Great Spirit is wise. It is better at you should be taken from my sight." Then in a louder voice : " Daughter of theLong- knives, we will not send you unprovided to the- land of shadows, your horses shall go with you, and your beautiful -lodge, that you may have a horse to ride and a lodge to dwell in." Tallbear waved his hand and the circling horde of- warriors, women and children opened before him. "Look!" said he, pointing through the nar- row lane thus made, "yonder are your horses, and your lodge has been taken down and packed upon them. When you reach the country of spirits, you Will not have long to wait for your horses; you will find everything as it was in this world, and the black man with the strong arms will be there to attend you; he is waiting you now, when he sees your large horse he will hasten to prepare him for your use, and he will hang your little rifle at the saddle if you should want to hunt the deer." Mignon saw the animals at a short distance, prepared as for a journey. The one she usually rode, seeing his mistress, 'erected his . ears and neighed; a proof of affection which called tears to her eyes. With a parting glance at the noble creature that had borne her uncomplainingly so many miles, she submitted herself to the com- mands of Tallbear. "Place me quickly, and -let it be soon over," she said. - The chief led her to the centre of the circle. "1This is the spot, here is a bandage to cover' your eyes., Your heurt is not big enough to, see the bow bent and the arrow pointed ; you will shrink and-run away, or swoon with terror." " I will do neither ; since -it is my duty to die, I will die as becornes the daughter of the great paleface nation !" There was a general inurmur of approbation. "It-is good," said Tallbear. Then in a whis- per, "Never had the corn-spirit a more beautiful offering. Your eyes are likeothose of the deer when the hunter's knife is at its throat, hanging over its small neck. - Pale girl, you have power over Tallbear !" The Indian gazed a- moment at Mignon with a softened expression-his strong band trembled while placing her in the attitude deemed fitting- and more than once he hesitated and looked at the horses'; some' half-formed purpose appeared to agitate him. " Maiden, be firm-the way to the land of, souls is toward the west, and your swift horses will fly like birds along the path." With a heavy breath much like a sigh of re=i gret, the chief left Mignon, who stood with her face toward the open space in the circle. The ribbon or scarf'of high-colored stuff which cov- ered the *upper portion of her person, was suffer- ed to fall a little upon the left side, while over the breast she placed the gift of Ravenclaw-a° raven wrought in beads. " Let your bowman aim at this ; my heart is beneath it," she said, with a calmness that sur. prised the grim warriors, and raised another hum of admiration. A sinewy Indian walked through the living avenue and-appeared at the margin of the se- cond circle. He carried a long-bow in his right hand,-which, -when held vertically beside him with one, end resting upon the ground, reached higher than his head. His quiver slung over his bare and brawny shoulder, contained but a single arrow pointed with bone.- He came with a lithe and-dignified step, and stopping -at the proper spot, stood erect before Mignon a few yards distant.- , She heard this coming and there was a quickened-motion of the snowy globe whieh was to be his mark. He glanced inquiringly at' -Tallbear ; the latter saw=him not; with 'folded arms, compressed-lips, and heaving chest, he was looking at Mignon. The red archer remainedriio- tionless; suddenly Tallbear turned toward him ;. his facewas flushed, there were beads of perspi- ration ot his forehead,'he made a hasty gesture .to the Indian who was waiting his- orders; he, took the arrow from the quiver and fitted it to the string. Mignon stirred not, trembled not, though conscious of the movement. The archer paused with the shaft levelled'at the figure of the raven upon Mignon's breast ; he :waited another signal when he would bend the tough fibres of the sturdy wood, and launch the arrow like lightning at the fairest mark man ever aim- ed at. Tallbear was in the act of giving that signal, and -the Indian was about to let fly his fatal shaft, when a bright object gleamed mo- mentarily in the air, and he fell forward upon his face. Immediately, before a warrior had moved, a grim and terrible figure bounded into the circle ; hisull was bare to the bone, his face black and 'streaked with blood; a savage fury and determination marked his motions. He caught Mignon in his arms, and with such a look as the lion casts upon those who kill her' young, bore her from the ring. No one spoke, not a hand grasped a knife, gun, or tomahawk- all tongues were mute, every warrior paralyzed. Mignon was lifted to the back of her favorite horse ; the reins were given her--she grasped them-she felt herself in rapid flight, and one who seemed to, her bewildered fancy like Ba- laam, was at her side. CHAPTER XI. NEW ADVENTURES IN THE CANON. BALAAM, it will be remembered, was stunned by a hatchet hurled effectively at his head by a warrior ; losing his seat, he finally sunk exhaust- ;d beneath repeated wounds. He remained in- sensible a long time. The first premonition of returning life was a consciousness of pain. He became.sensible at last of some kind of an exis- tence without the ability to connect the past with the present, or to know where the thread of out- er life had been broken. His head glowing with a fiery heat, his eyes drowned in an abyss of darkness, his stiffened tongue, his throat hot and dry, a dull, weary motion of the heart made him, conscious of misery only, without awakening individualidentity. But Balaam's vital powers were. strong and able to resist much suffering; they prevailed at, length over wounds and bruises, restored sight to ,his swimmingvision, and activity to his brain. He raised his head from the ground, the red beams of the sunj' then at its meridian, glowing into his face, extinguished for an instant his newly restored sight. Presently he arose to his. feet, he saw one of Mignon's gloves lying near hirp, and it quicken- ed at once the sluggish current of memory. The thought of Mignon in danger absorbed him whol-I ly, to the utter exclusion of himself, his wounds, his wretched condition. He quenched his burn- ing thirst at the nearest stream, and then took' the trail of the savages with the eagerness of a' hound that scents his prey. His iron frame dis- dained its wounds, and his resolute soul, with the updying faithfulness of the dog, scorned physical pain and the gnawings of hunger. For- tunately for him, most of his hurts were not of a very dangerous character, the blow upon his head with the loss of his scalp, being the most serious; though his arms and, body were much hacked and scarred by knives and other weapons. Defying all' obstacles, Balaam tracked the red' robbers who had' wrested away his :precious charge, determined to save her or share her fate. In what manner he was to deliver her .he did not know- or even ask himself, 'so entirely were his still disordered faculties occupied in the idea of pursuit. He reached the Indian town at the moment when Mignon's fate seemed decided. He was going to throw himself upon the Indian with the bow and, crush him with his giant. strength, when a gleaming shaft passed him like lightning, and the tawny. archer fell, stricken' through the brain with a steel-headed arrow. We have related what then occurred. The In- dians, after the rescue of Mignon, took up the dead body of the warrior and retired in silence to their village.a It was to them evident that the Great Spirit was not pleased with what they had proposed. Mignon and Balaam had not proceeded far be- fore theydiscovered a party of men advancing, that proved to be Captain Brion, Buckeye, arid a select number of hardy 'mountaineers.- This" sudden, meeting, together with the singular plight of the black, - excited both inquiry and surprise ; and the latter gave place to gratitude when the startling experiences of Mignon and the negro had been properly set forth. No one; however, not excepting Balaam, was more thank- ful than the partisan for the wonderful escape of Mignon. -The revulsion of feeling was so great with her, when she fully realized that she was snatched from death and was safe with friends, that she lost her consciousness. Brion being the first to observe that she was fainting, caught lier in his arms, thus, timely preventing a fall frot' her horse. Balaam, too, now that the excite- qw BEX PATH. 0 r 1 ,1 tr t r t page: 64-65[View Page 64-65] .EDPAT. meant was over, felt the need of attention, and the poor fellow was immediately attended to- his wounds - dressed, his bravery praised, his fidelity lauded. The purifying and cooling effects of water, and the comforting nature of brandy, were speedily tested, in -his case, with, the most happy effects. Hearty food was not. allowed him, but 'he wras permitted to swallow a portion of a biscuit with his arguardiente, when his vivacity being measurably restored, he was su-to utter several pleasantries at the expense of his sca,lpless cranium. The necessary sanato- ry operations having been attended to, the mountaineers resumed their way toward the canon in which the band had encamped the pre- vious day. The partisan placed himself near. Mignon, occasionally asking questions co'ncern- ing her capture, referring to his own anxiety, and detailing the efforts he had-made to find her. The account of her rescue was to, him intensely interesting. There was something perfectly in- apprehensible in that transaction. The idea of the mysterious Redpath was again evoked ; how could it be otherwise Had not the evidences of his presence been indubitable? ?^Unquestion- ably, yes. There had been a death from an ar- row in a manner that he had himself witnessed. "Mademoiselle Bellmar," he said, "it would appear that you owe your escape to the inter- position of that ever-present creature, Red- patht" "My mind has been in such a world of ex- citement and confusion since my unexpected es- cape, that I have not yet reflected calmly ;"but that I am indebted to Redpath, seems an inevita- ble conclusion-a conviction that ,forces itself upon me spontaneously, without the trouble of reasoning," she replied. "It would interest me, to' know what your ideaM may be concerning this singular personage, who has a marvellous power of ubiquity, cer- tainly," Brion added. Mignon paused to rally her thoughts. " Hitherto," she answered, "my conceptions of him have been quite, untinged with romance, and practical to the last degree. I pictured him, brave Brion, a wily savage gifted with a power of cunning remarkable, even for his race, and actuated by thpstrongest. feelings of vindictive- ness. Fired with undying enmity, strengthened with unnatural hate, endowed with dauntless oo r ge, and aided by that fo-like cunning, he has been able to cover his movements with-mys- tery,,and make his name a word of terror." " Those were your former views ; now your present opinion, if you please?" , " My thoughts at this moment are so unlike what they were, that I shall doubtless excite a smile upon your lips,-Captain Brion. Redpath is more like the eagle than the raven." Brion's eyes rested upon. the figure of the raven upon Mignon's breast at that moment, and he said with a smile: " But you-give the preference to the raven, it- would seem?" Mignon's cheeks assumed a deeper red. ",Yes, I wear the raven, but' I shall attempt to impose on my imagination and think it an eagle," she replied. " Redpathh as I said, is more like the eagle than the raven. He has eyes that are bold and piercing, that dare the sun to dazzlethem. He has a front like the god of war. His features are noble, his manners lofty and' proud. Redpath is tall and stately as the cedars of Lebanon. With' other men he is like Saul among the prophets. His tread is firm and fear- less. He speaks but little, and his words are commands. He reads the destiny of the red man; he sees the coming supremacy of the ;white, and the destiny of the Indian.. He' knows that the- way of his people is over the mountains and to- ward the sea-and toward oblivion. The thought of the extinction of a great nation like his, through the injustice of the palefaces, maddens him ; his noble soul swells with emotions inex- pressible, and he invokes the vengeance of the great and awful Master of Life." While Mignon was thus describing Redpat, she stopped near a swamp of inusquite, and Brion dismounted to adjust her saddle-girth., " Did you not bear a Sound ?" he asked, turn- ing toward the musquite. - Mignon was already looking in that direction ; she replied with some embarrassment : "A slight disturbance among the leaves, occasioned I imagine, by yonder prairie-dog, which our voices frightened from his shelter." But Mignon, in this instance, was not quite ingenuous ; she had , seen, while Brion was employed with the girth, and at the instant she' was finishing her descrip- tion, the tall form of Ravenclaw. He stood in the musquite in an attentive attitude, as if listen. ing to the tones of her voice. . He cast upon her a look of mingled melancholy and pride, and she saw him no more. "Ah," quoth Brion,' rather drily, "you make a hero of Redpath." "But what can you expect, my friend, from a REDPATH. giddy girl who owes her life to this same per- sonage2" "0,' thought the partisan, "it should {have been I who saved this charming woman !" "You have painted him with the colors of the novelist; but I will not cavil, inasmuch as he deserves unmeasured commendation for what he has done. Redpath nrthis has done me a good service, also," Brion answered. In what manner has he been of service to you, Captain -Brion ?. - "Had you suffered the fate intended for you, I should never cease to reproach myself," said the mountaineer. "And why ." "For t'he simple reason that I did not care for you better after you put yourself under my protection ; it was in me, criminal neglect, for which I most earnestly ask your pardon." "I.cannot absolve you from a sin whi you never incurred. Please to remember that I posi- tively refused your escort to the camp;p therefore if blame there be, it necessarily falls on me. "I see well where my error was, and even your ingenuous kindness cannot make me for- get 't. From this hour it shall 'be my special preIogative to attend to your safety; it shall be the first, the greatest, the last of my duties so long as you shall think proper to honor me with your presence and confidence." "Thanks-thanks I You will well discharge the self-imposed. duty ; but let me'entreat you not to neglect more important matters for the sake of a truant maiden, whose erratic wander- ings expose her to the charge of female quixotism." "Chastisement to him who has the pre- sumption to make that or any other charge of a reproachful character 1" exclaimed Brion, with a menacing motion of the hand. "He who couples your'name with aught that is unbecoming, shall feel the anger of Ben Brion !" "And that," said Buckeye, who now joined the parties, "is no slight thing, accordin' to mny views of human natur." "I trust my humble name wl not give rise to aught'unpleasant," said Mignon, with heigh- tened color. "~Your name, miss," quoth -3uckeye, "shall be the watchword of the camp. By the beard of Joe Smith I them as hasn't no particular religion 'miong us, shall prayto you !" "I fear I shall prove a poor, dumb divinity," returned Mignon, laughing.' '65 "I sha'n't put up my petitions to nobody else I" rejoined Buckeye. "When I feel like worshippin', 'I want somethin' I can see." " You are a materialist," said Brion. "I should be a-good Christian, I reckon, if I allers had somethin' lovely in the woman-line 'bout- me; it softens the rough side of my na- tur---the nor'west, mountainous side which has allers been uncultivatedd and neglected." "'Will you be good enough, Buckeye, to re- peat me one of the prayers you intend to make use of"" requested the mountaineer. " Well, cap'n,.it would be oncommon like the one I beard you sayin' in your sleep, not'long ago, '} " You, are talking at _random !" protested Brion, palpably disconcerted. . "There's two things I never do-I mean talk at random or shoot at random. But as to the prayer, it should 'commence somewhat in this fashion. '0, Mignon, a rude old sinner entreats you never to leave him, that there may be some- thin' lovely and good allers near to apologize for the rest of human natur."' S" Not so bad," said Brion. " Come, sir, desist I" interposed the divinity of this prayer. Then to Buckeye: "I trust that you mean me well, and intend no disrespect.", "If I mean you any otherwise than well, may I be-scalped !" cried Buckeye, bluntly. " I can vouch for his goodness of heart, Miss Bellmar.- He has given himself not a moment's rest since your disappearance, and looked for the trail of your captors as earnestly as if you had been his own child." "There's a heap of malice in ye, cap's'! I aint old enough to be the girl's father, no ways, and the innooendo isn't altogether friendly," .- plied the trappers gravely. " 0, I am - sure you are not old I" added Mignon. "'Sartinly not. Here's Flash; I'll leave it to Flash ; and Flash has known mis longer 'n any of ye. Come, Flash, what do you say ?" "It's well for you, he can't speak," said 'the partisan, good-humoredly. "A strange, tale he'd be telling !" - " Do you hear him, miss I He's afeard I hall become a favorite with you, as I shall, if I Ave long enough." "I have 'you in much favor, now,". repled Miss -Bollmary playfully. In pleasant conversation the parties beguiled the tedium of the returning trail. .By the .mid- As l page: 66-67[View Page 66-67] . REDPATH. die of the afternoon they were within a few miles of the canon. Life seemed more precious to Mignon than at any previous period of her existence. -The sun, the skies, the earth presented new attractions and beauties hitherto unappreciated., She marvelled that she had ever beheld them with feelings of indifference. "Glorious world !" -she mentally exclaimed, "I shall not yet leave thee. " shall dwell with and in-thee, and experience formany years, perchance, the'munificence of provident nature." Hearing words of salutation from Buckeye, she looked up and perceived that two persons on horseback had joined the party. ' "Ah," said Brion, who kept his place at her side, " here is an addition to our numbers." "And you will do well to be -on your guard. Ohe of those .approaching is the specialinstru- sment of; Mariot-a half-breed, whose name is ,Gardette, generally known, I believe, by his In- dian name of Beavertaker; while the other is no -less a personage than Captain Calnard, the par. tisan of a band of trappers," said Mignon. "I know them, mademoiselle. 'That provi- deuce which reaches to the wilderness, and be- yond those mighty mountains even, has made me acquainted with those now advancing," re turned the mountaineer. "6Whatever may be the nature and design of their visit, I trust you will remember, captain that I am under your protection," Mignon added, with considerable agitation of manner. "Icertainly will not forget a, circumstanc affording me so much pleastire." VIneed not admonish you to be-firm." "In your cause such admonition is unnecessary But'sere they are." . ' -- "Captain Brion, I believe ?"'said Callard, ad dressing the mountaineer. , "I am thus called," said the latter.- "I think we met many years ago," resume the former, "tut, this precarious life of our changes the human face, you know4". "The extremes of heat and cold, hunger ani thirst, and hardship, all set their mark upon th features." Brion answered. During: tle tim this rejoinder, occupied, Callard was, lookin; furtivelyat Mignon.. "But," added Brion, " though exposure an suffring may roughen the features, j trustit wi never change the heart of an honest.trapper." "No, assuredly;; at least I hope not, in you case," returned Callard." " I believe I have a clear conscience. I have tried to make it my study to act the man of honor. Now will you be kind enough to inform me to what lucky chance Iowe the honor of this visit 1" Disconcerted by the suddenness of this request; Callard exhibited much embarrassment. " That I have to, say,' Captain Brion, is pro- bably more proper for your private ear," he rejoined. " If there is aught in your message to make a lady blush, I do not wish to hear it. The young woman that you see near me may safely be made the repository of the most important secret that can be entrusted to human keeping." "But if the subject to be discussed ' concerns this young lady herself, you perceive that it may alter the ease ?" , "Nof at all ! speak what you have been cop- missi ed to at once and in her hearing. If it concerns her, why then she is the'party most in- terested, and has a right to-be present." " I will throw aside disguise at once," sid Callard. " This lady is Mademoiselle Bellmar, who left the roof of her aged father in the garb of a youthful adventurer, and. joined company with me at Fort Leavenworth. The fact of her sex having transpired, she clandestinely left my encampment."A f " Had she not a right to do so!" " Under ordinary circumstances she had an undoubted right to govern her own movements ; but this, you will readily apprehend, was a pecu- e liar case. It was my duty as well as my design to send her back to herfather under a safe escort. It was an unwillingness to return that unques- tionably induced her to withdraw from my pro- tection." "You cannot imagine that Miss Bellmar has not a will or purpose of her own?" "Certainly ; she has too much will, and as to d her purpose, I will not wound her delicacyby a referring to it." "Nor need you; I know it already." d " That she entered on this wild enterprise to be e near her lover, may be admitted without com- e promising her womanly instincts ; but there is no g accounting for that caprice that induced. her to fly from him, wien to all human appearance it d was quite unneedful." "With delicate questions of this nature, it ill becomes you and I.to meddle. She will herself tr regulatehey speech andconduct in regard to such matters." REAPATH 67 "Allow the chivalrous captain to proceed; -he the side of Mignon, when the excited partisan, has learned well his .lesson," said Mignon, with rising in his stirrups, unhorsed him in a moment disdainful calmness. of time. "I insist that there was nothing unaidenly " By the beard of the prophet Smith ! If in her conduct when it i$ considered that-she has there's fightin' to be done, I go in for it.!" shout- from her infancy been, ergaged- to l onsieur ed Buckeye, galloping Flash to the spot. "Let Mariot, and her marriage was arranged to take me strike this here feller, cap'n !" Before Brion place immediately afterhis return from his could grant or refuse the boon asked, the trap- p texpedtion." per pressed hard against Callard, and gave him a "You are not only ingenious but ingenuous !" most ungentle push with the muzzle of his rifle. exclaimed Mignon, while the blood mounted in- "Forbear !" cried Brion. " Let there be no dignantly to her cheeks. "Whatyou intimate quarrel with him." is both base and false. Pierre Mariot is the The captain meantime drew a pistol and Buck- most.contemptible of men!" eye grasped his wrist to take it from him, when "He is your father's partner;mademoiselle !" it was accidentally discharged, wounding him "To his regret and mine." (Buckeye) slightly in the arm, The ball passed will not cavil, but come to the point. My so near Mignon that it grazed her neck, but present purpose is to conduct the daughter of my happily did her no harm. employer back to my camp." " Captin Callard, a struggle with us 7l be "She will act her pleasure," added Brion. useless, and can but result in injury to yourself. "mI shall remain where I am. And I com- Go at.once, and think no more of the projects of mission you to assure Pierre Mariot of my un- Pierre Mariot," added Brion. measured scorn," said Mignon. "Go yonder with me, sir, and I will settle In case of your refusal, I am charged-to act this Matter with you with the bowie-knife or the against your wishes-foryour own good." rifle," returned Callard, thrusting tile'empty pis- "That means to capture my person, and take tol into the holsters. me toPierre Mariot by brute strength?" " Captain Brion, if you have any regard to "It implies some degree of force, of course, my wishes, do not listen to such a brutal pro- Miss Bellmar, which rudeness I hope you will postal !" said Mignon, earnestly. attribute solely to zeal for your happiness. This "I have no cause of quarrel with you, and sudden aversion, believe me, will soon give therefore decline your offer," said the partisan. place to your former feelings. Do me the honor " That is a manly answer," asserted Mignon, to accompany me " encouragingly. "mCaptain Brion," said Mignon, "I have no - "Had Pierre Mariot given me such a challenge, rto say to this man. To you I commit the I would not have refused him satisfaction; but I guardianship of my person." have no wish to slay a man withwhom until this * " Thecaptain has too much sense, young lady, hour I never exchanged a dozen words, and who, to meddle with an affair that does not concern to my knowledge,,never injured me." him, but rather tends to disconcert his plans for "As you will,".returned Callard, choking down wth noeing campaign," Callard Answered, his anger. "I am only carrying out the wishes With increasing confidence. of my employer, urged on by the hope of restor- "Ah, weshall see," quoth Brion. ing this fair lady to the arms of her father."' Beavertaker-this way," said Callard, call- " She chooses to return under safer escort than ing to the half-breed, who was in the rear a few Mariot's, and this affected zeal is not in keeping paces. " Takethe lady's horse by the bridle." with your conduct. As :long as Miss Bellmar "Back, you scoundrel !" cried Brion. " Cap- chooses to remain under my protection, no power twn Callard, egone! I cannot longer keep on earth shall restrain her inclinations." down my indignation I Your insolence is past " One would be disposed to think, that the all patience h d- days of knight-errantry are reviving; but this "You have heard my instructions, Captain foolish obstinacy- on your part may be pro- , e refuses to go-I must take her." ductive of serious results. Since you will not "n You will take my life first !" retorted Brioh, listen to reason, I must leave you and rest the Beavertaker attempted to hi termination of thpmatter with Mariot. I think, .d to pass to reach captain, you will hear from this affair again, I / _~ .- .. -. , ._ " , * ; ,t = . k 'r : (a . page: 68-69[View Page 68-69] and in a manner at variance' with your interest and wishes." d Callard-rode away in bad humor, followed by the halt-breed. e " That man means to be dangerous," remark- ed Buckeye.. o "If he suffers himseif,to be led by Mariot, yes," Brion replied., ti At that moment a man came to tell the par- o tisan that Balaam was overcome with sleep, fa- t tigue and exhaustion, and was in danger of fall- p ing from his horse, The mountaineer instantly f ordered a halt,,and the black being disposed of c in a comfdrtable- position, slept, heavily till s dark. Brion had given orders to go forward e again, when a firing was heard in the direction p of the canon. Mignon was the, first to mark p the sound, and looked inquiringly at the cap- tain. The latter was assisting her to the' sad. dle ; when she was seated he enjoined silence, c and going to a small knoll, turned his practiced c ear in the direction of the ominous disturbance.7 There vas a heavy volley and then a dropping fire which continued. Brion- .came back in av few minutes. ' " The Indians have attacked our camp," he] said. Buckeye and the whole party confirmed his opinion., "Yes," asserted the former, "the heatheni riptiles are at their old tricks again. Many and many a time have I heard that kind of 'firing when the oncivilized buffalo-eaters were astir. They'll never be content and mind their busi- ness as long's there's a hoss to steal, or a white trapper's camp to plunder. I allers go in for a skrimmage when they make themselves too free in that war. Flash is great in a rmnnin' fight,i but not quite sel handy in -a reg'lar bush tussle, where the red niggers skulk from tree to tree." Balaam approached much refreshed, singing about a venerable relative "who had no -wool on the top of his head, in the place where the wool ought to grow." ' - 'That's a game cretur," continued Buckeye. " Nothing' seems to break him down, though one might nat'rally think that the loss of his night-cap is a solemcholly' affair, calkillated -to check s happy flow of sperits." " Go on in dat strain, Buffaloeye," quoth Ba- laatn, with an exhibition of ivory. "You hear that firing , 'don't ye, Bill-em' Well, the Ingins have come back arter the rest of your scalp," said Buckeye, in a' bantering tomO " Go 'long, Bullseye ! don't spose yer limited ldication!" retorted Balsam. " The firing continues and grows more spirit- d," sai the partisan.' "Ho* are we to reach the camp ?" 'inquired ne of the trappers. " That is yet to be determined, and an under king which may be attended with danger. If ur friends are.surrounded by Blackfeet, it cer- ainly'will not be easy to get to them. It is possible, however, that the attack may be con- ined to one side, in which case we can join our omrades without much difficulty. The real tate of affairs must be learned by one experi- need iid woodcraft, while the rest remain at a prudent distance until the thing is settled. If racticable, we will go to the camp, if not, we must be governed by circumstances."- " That's advised like an old mountaineer, eap'n,", said Buckeye. "A better arrangement wouldn't be made, considerin' the circumstances. There bein' a woman with us, that woman must be pertected, cost what it may. If there was none but masculines 'mong us, why we might cut our way to camp through a host of yaller Ingins ; but as I have said, it isn't so ; there's one here that must be defended to the last." "We will proceed to the timber yonder, which is near the canon, where I will leave you in charge of the Cnen for the protection of Made- moiselle Bellmar,, while I reconnoitre the condi- tion of the camp. -Judging by the continuous fire, there is a determined conflict going on, with the advantage of numbers on the side'of the enemy." The partisan, w ing given other premonitory instructions, set forward on foot for the scene of the fight, while. his little band of trappers, with Mignon, took shelter in the timber. Brion approached the canon by the most ob- scure way, covered by- pinon and cottonwood. He pushed warily on until he was able to com- mand a tolerably good vievr of the spot ; or more properly a position where in broad daylight he could have looked along its entire length'; but darkness now hung over the cliffs, relieved lyy the flashes of fire-arms only, as the Indians fired down from their hiding places at the trap- pers below, and the latter replied by the sharp crack of theirrifles. The mountaineer perceived that the attacking party was large, for the sides of the canon were occupied in every accuisible place, a blaze leaping from every projecting ledge and rock, frpm every cleft and hole. Entering the canon, Brion made such a dispo- 'cI think.you.will hayt is o sition of the trappers as -at length repelled the horse' It appears o e tassst me m attack of theBassailants, after a most obstinate consousaes pg resistance. Having restored comparative qiet The partisan -s he set out on his return to the timber where he lg insprangfroms sle enadik- had left Migpon when he went to reconnoltre the upon a grassy knoll. camp. e had passed the most perilous portion "My mouth is b of the caion,' when an Indian suddenly rose hear the running of a stream?"br gi i , In from behind a rock with upraised tomahawk: guidly. The mountaineer ta se saign With sudden presence of mind Brion parried from the leathern wallet or valise, atdinaklie the descending weapon, and dashed his gun and hastened t look fr the et hs ab- against.the Indian's head and brought him to blind was audible e the rve o the ground. ie felt for his hatchet, but a feel- and Mi rank. with water, ng of mercy pro ipted him to hesitate. He " Thankshanks I ow gazed in the grim face of the warrior a mme, su ' tans $ao kindly s intre tp, and slowly tegi footh rio r breut, supply our wants. What so grateful as this an lwytaking his foot from, his breast, ,said pure beverage 4to the p are .lip I" gently, "Arise! I could have taken your life, edreterniage the pa l she repsark- but I will not. Depart in peace i". The India rnmde arose, walked s few paces, and turning aid, warningy Tade ot wbheldt p hrswe "ion of the Yan-kee, Blackbird will not forget rstinwaagl ae eat heorether partieswere this," Then moving silently along the cnnon the n Oa thear the northern ent e he said, "son of the Yan-kee, adieu." treescanon.sOnrthat side negtthe .;eanttgh When Brion had nearly' reached the timber -were sparse and : tesmallhrowth;r bh shouts and pistol shots fell on hisg er. Qhick- pra r ," s aigh and the .shruIberye th ening his speed, he soon saw a confused mass of motio r said roy fI seethe grrese human figures fighting hand to hand, and gig- ing through its.e" eep non surrounded by a circle of trappers defendin her with desperate courage against formidable ed Mignon. u ec ' numbers of Indians. With dauntless daring he " made his way among them, and forced the cue- The m my to yield ,wherever .he appeared, and they some of huntaeer looked around to se if finallWerenot in sight, .lut not one finally left the field. The little party mounted of th a torby seen e sigheb a ont and galloped towards the canon, which they en-. longer thea eculiar motion f thed a that tered soon after the moon had arisen. But the excited h pc ion Indians gathering in the cliffs above the canon "It is tuei xTh threatened by theirnumber to overwhelm them, hounds have scenteducsli . . " Teee Brion sought a place of greater security where tuning to Mignen, uMssa enar Ieaded he might place Mignon, while the other trappers life itsel inonf' i 111r,ncel" were engaged in repelling a new attackiAnd ;the "Generous defender! Ihopeyob our is t partizan found himself alone with her, yet. Cas yrour defende abu you, 70 hour i e Beitg thus thrown together, every moment avenue of escape is not yoen" d was freighted with interest. The partisan cared "I thinkeae isuo pen.? not te speak much,; he was better content to latin we aresurrone; u ne eonso- gaze silently at ignon, whose features in the "What is ined soft moonlight reflected a spiritual beauty. " It is t .vmged Mion, faintly , "Has not the firing ceased?" she asked. Exte pr vi on t a -In the canon, yes," said Sri, -«but when "T de for yin ty. the n.n is higher,:it will 'be resumed again, '"No n or 7wi no dep =.nquestigngply.' n, wl of wcept ,omserice ' g quetny" ' at -once;, escape w'4eysmny Pat.ent:withme, my friendbut I:belle ,mp'fate!"scapi g 9npayia,d x my pyjeed powerea quite exhausted." men"Isi on,npaee g y +C "Nora eit aingulat tat such shouldd be the The partisan smiled,'but scorned el cas. t havep togh extordinar such a proposition. calmfacevn l.okd sohandsome as then to Migeon,' 5j nU '4 0 68 REDPATH. page: 70-71[View Page 70-71] 9 I 70' / R P ATH. "Ah, it is vain to-urge such a consideration "I seek not your life; if I did, no6earthly upon your You are firm-you will not go; I power could save you," rejoined the Indian. read it in your eyes, on your lips)" .Mg added D~g Sp eak not" so' Proudly ; we are but mani to nona itibdus voice. u i man, and I think at this moment that the ad- "nou ar egtaeht; I would not leave yu if a vantages with me: thousand warriors were each thirsting for my "Look!" added the Indian, waving his hand blood, and saot tnde a vow to give me a and emitting a sibilant sound. fBrion cast his wolud."' eyes around and saw scores of red faces- arising w about him as if from the earth. ecause'it~is man's dutty to protect woman, "Lost !" exclaimed the partisan; but Mig- at al places, under all conditions." non, though conscious, wastoo much agitated to "is ,the r no other- taon?" speak; she had covered her eyes that she might Drion's hitherto placid face was suddenly agi. not see the dreaded visages of the savages. tated; but 'he-struggled panfally to regain his " Son of the white man, you need not look for cordpbsure.. those who left you not long go ; they are pris " Do you wishine to be perfectly' frank ?" oners," said the Indian. "Does the awful danger that encircles us war- "I ask nothing for myself; prepare your tor- raut aught liut theimosteintire candor" tures; but spare this maiden " exclaimed the '"'vidently, no ; but I will say no more until mountaineer. tav I have made yet another effort to save you." "You do well not to ask mercy of Ravenclaw' 'he motaaineer raised Mignon from the you shall both share the same fate. The nature ground and plaed her in the saddle.; Mounting of the red man is cruel !" returned Ravenclaw, his oWnhorse, and entreating her to. bear up yet with loftyirony. little longer, he took her bridle rein and moved - Mignon enclosed her eyes and fixed th upon toward an opening at'the Western margin of'the Ravenclaw. f ' / glade, which seemed to otfer the only chance of "Lilyface, you are free," he said, th dignity. escape. He and his faircompanion had galloped And this brave man-i he ot ree also ." but a few rods before be perceived that the open "lie .dies " replied the Indian, col hiy. space led directly to the canon, and the ground "So will all men die, brave chief. while was toorough to be traversed by horses. Mignon was speaking, she. took the figure of We seem' to be indeed lost," said Brion. the raven from her bosom and fastened it to 1'But lets dismount I can carry you in' my Brion's breast. s" "That saves but one life," said Raenclaw " Do not burden yourself with me, my friend! * ."Let it be his, then. Son of theEagle,I am '"it iot me you may elude the savages." your captive.r ie "A burden you will not be. Come, let us Ravenclaw remaif-edlsilen o ent, then hasten alongthe Canon. Ah, but they are very turning to the grinm circles of braves, said, an- near !. Do you not hear those yells ? It will be thoritatively :re 'a pleasure t defend you, and a pleasure to die " Warriors, release your prisoners, and reurn with ou Mignon, I love youl" to your lodges."na " hen death will Unite us forever !" He did not speak again unileveryred face had 'death to one wil b'e' welcome. Mignon, you vanished.. a are dearer to me than life!" "Ilyface, you and your people - d I "Mg friend, :'am yours in life or death, as have saved them; yet the re man is cru God may order. We will not be separated." his nature is stern like flint 1" The parisiaitook Mignon from her horse, and Then to Brion he pressing her to .his. heart, was bounding away, -s" on of the' oflald, go your way. The when duskyfigare appeared in his path. Sup- daughter of t i be h ien k o Irs hejrapeda ea~andsavd our tra ppers 'he knives of ring h With his left arahersped a wea-andavedyo PP p wit is right theBlac etrves.Thank the Gteatpin t "Son of the paleface, forbear " said a deep, that he has, not illed yi tonight gononthe clvi. ' ' ' " tong rai..tof the l and'. of soit.. Go and take the~ cal i 100. g a-d, x ul : 'o alotted S esit me, aidyou die "' criedfBrion, *hose otter and: the beaeand flfl yu e pistol was aimed at the tall, motionless form. mroons on the earth." U 71 With a gesture of indescribable dignity, 1a- fluenced by presents andinflamnlatory speeches), venclaw walked rapidly from sight, while JSrion to attack the trappers encamped in the Canon, and Mignon gazed after him in breathlesasilence, which he did ; ;while Kincaid, in the disguise of almost in awe. an Indan, led sandtherparty against Briqu for the purpose of withdrawing Mignon, ftpnm her CHAJ'TER X1, protection, in accordance with the wishes of his k N employerART. Mariot.. MIGNONAN.The failure of this schmeto,obtain the person .PmnE $ MARIoT was .possessed of dogged of Mignon was a vexatious disappointmentt, -but perseverance when in pursuit of a coveted ob. from which he soon recoveredto concoct a new j3ct. Opposition sharpened his eagerness, and one, incwhich Headley'was to bear some part, difficulties quickened.his energies. Ifhis intent influenced by, bribes and promises. was bad, it mattered not ; the same obstinate;, "Remain encamped in this vicinity uneiU firmness marked his movements.: , is unexpeet- have -captured this truante dasgsel, d ,I wrn give ed repulse by Mignon aroused this perverse prin. you such an outfit asyopusneed for the long march ciple in his nature, and subsequent events put 'it before you," said Mariot to ,eadigg into full action. The motives that induced her The intended plan failed, and Mariot now.en- flight from Westport were to him, at first, pro. deavored to work upon Headley, to:league w$i found mysteries ; mysteries, too, which he was him in his purpose to secure the person of Mig. feverishly anxious to petietrate, Her escape: non. He gradually prepared. him, by an artful from his camp, and from that severe espionage detail of such a story ashe pleased, and a pro. which he intended to exercise over her, disap- longed conversation followed in which;Mariot pointed, while at the same time it provoked him. 'developed so n ch of his,' plansto his aecom- That Mignon would put herself under Brion's police as he deemed prudent. These plans we protection, he was quite sure; and immediately will not now detail,-as they hwillbe k upon the discovery of her flight, conferred with subsequent events. Inthe 'esntine we will re. Callard in regard to the best means of again ob- turn to Mignon., taming control of her person, while Beavertaker Attended by the part sa and the trappers who was sent to watch the movements of the rival. had beenrtaken and reused by the ndians by band, with instructions to report what he saw as ,the orders of Ravenclawr shesoon had: the sat- often' as practicable. He returned at noon on isfaction of reaching a place where she couldob- the ensuing day, with the, startling intelligence tainthat rest she so much needed. that:Mignon had',probably been captured by the But new and powerful emotions agitated her 'ws, and that Captain Brion had started in heart ; she prayed, she wept, and $p p uit with a picked party of trappers. Be eredlby fatigue, sank to sleep to pass tHugh mae the discovery-by overhearing a- few: words again many of the scenes of the last forty-eight whfle concealed in the bushes near the encamp- hours. When she awoke she saw the sunbeams ment of the mountaineer, bit the particulars creeping in through the apertures of the tent, were unknown to him. This news- perplexed and knew that her slumbers must have 'been.e Mariot not a little, but he settled the matter-after tracted. - She felt no disposition, to rmover and some,,reflection, in.this manner : Brion was un. recalled all that hadrecetly transpired In the deniably both' bold and experienced, and would proper order of each particular incident. She rescue Mignon-if rescue were possible-'-with- renuentbered, too, as a last link in the chain of out his aid or co-operation; 'hence he need only events, that something unusual had e remain quiet and await the issue. Upon this tween herself and Captain Drion; the recoilec policy he acted. Through theinstrumentality of tion heightened the color Qf her cheeks, and the half-breed, he. was informed on the:follow- quickened the pulsations of hey heart. Sheas. ing day, of the youniglady's rescue, and that she ed if her conduct had been suc as became her was being conducted.to the canon by the brave.,set and situationl f she de a deported partisan. It was then that Callard was sent with with digicowatnedeicacy the 4 the message, whichas we have seen, was:treat. that she could answer yes.wthatolerable clear ed as it deserved by Xignon and the captain. cQnscience, but fearethat mathrerthoughti Beaverteker was then instructed to instigate. bringcoaviefionless flattering. the: Blackfeet. warriors (whose minds he had in "Come/said Brion, "s ypu have not-break REPPATE page: 72-73[View Page 72-73] SPAT}.7 fasted, you niust-test the skilfulness of an ld Freic voyageur's cookery, not so varied, per- chanegas the fare to which y'o hav been ae- casto cad, but which I trust you will not-find wholfr 'iapalatable Nignon followed the pai-tisan to the open 'air. Beneath the cooling shade of an overhanging C upon a small i lss tot,'as 'arranged the simple cookeryt iwich Bripn had referivd,'con- siatgngof tender 9'vison prepared in the best of-trapper stylessno'hard biscuits, and the lux- ury of coffee, an unpiatendin 'meilwhieh they cheorfuly discussed.. 'We have doinetimes'wished thatlovers might rendwn lovers to the end of' their lives; and thus secure the pleasiresof a continual affection ting- ed with that novelty, freshness and expectation that tend the t&atsakening of that gentle 9y the beard of the Prophet'Smith !" ex-, claimed Buckeye approaching Brioh. " ell"said hepgtisaninquiringly. " Who d you suppose is lookii '"for youn? Brion regled that le ulr not tell. * r it,1your old fiend, Hedey," quoth the trape , with his sccustomed shrug. "Ah !" said Brion. "What does jhe want ?" "Beaves and etes" i I aint 1n his confi- dence I What's morefI-don't want td'eb. The- truth isI haven't nfaith inthe cretur. There's a kink:inhis dispersition that I can't straighten out, no ways. Depend on it, cap'n, there'd sun- shin'a in t &lnd'!"3 "Possibti not; it's our duty to be charitable, you know. Where's no man too bad 'thathe has not same good in him." . "Wha ye n find the good spots in Headley, wish 'you'd jes' clap your finger on 'en, or- make 'a-chalk mek acrost 'em, so they'can be diskivred by comidion eyes. Accordin' to my nOtions of human' making' up, there were a few' engredientslei oit, at the'time of his airthly c position; one of then articles was honesty, sich eon e wh1hle is rathe- important in cre- atisi a kuxnau bein'." es, certainly honesty ought to be remem- bered, fend Buckeye." fBt inthis ease it was totally disremember- e; but here h ie coes and yon cansnake ane or les obi "ini, je8 A6the notiontakes you." 'yTelspasan~ already watching the yp- *pra h =.eadley v indering what the object of his, visit might 'be. :'ihe mutinous tIaper dte* it with adowacast look. "Captain Biion," he said, penitently, "I have no right to expect a fiendly rec'ption from one, *hom I fear, I have treated'-very-unhaid- somely." "Your conduct, Mr. Headley, has been well calculated to forfit my g#ood will, and your presence in camp cannot be regarded by me as a very welcome event,"returned Biion, coldly. ' expected such a reply ; my behaviour has merited severe reproof. Icame prepared to'-hear your reptoaches patiently, and to confess'that I, deserve them," returned °ehdley, 'in, the same humlile tones.' ," By the beard of Smith, yes 1" said Buckeye, in a suppressed voice.' "Before you:say iore, let me ask why are' you here ?" resumed Brion,'with considerable sternness. "To acknowledge frankly, captain, 'that I hake' beenin fault, and to beg' to 'be restored, partially; at least, to your confidence." "''o have confidence in a man who has for- feited his word,and forgotten'his duties,,as you have done, will prove exceedingly difficult, I sus- pect, to one who, like me, is strong in:his pre- judices. Where are those who wentwith you ?" "Some of them'have joined another band o trappers, and the remainder-are on their way t4 Fort Laramie." "And the gold-seeking expedition-"' " Is abandoned." Brion mused a moment.Y " Mr. Headley,' he, added, " if I had any means of testing your sincerity, youi apologies' should 'be acceited." " Try me," said Headley, "and if youfind one in your band mor quick te obey your orders, then you shall' b at. liberty to doubt my sin, cerity. My original agreement, I am aware, is forfeited, and I do not ask to be fully reinstated, but merely to, be tolerated among you; more I cannot reasonably expect." "My nature, sir, is a frank, unsuspecting one. You'recollect the old adage, ' To err is human,' etc. I am disposed to overlook your fault, and restore you once more to yon- place, and I trust my confidence will-not be abused.", The parties were ataiding near Mignon's tent, and at that juncture;that young lady appeared: iteadley, .who "saw Mignon advancing, exhib- ited considerable-surprise, filing his eyes so h tently upon he,.thatseheeouldnot -but'be aware of biclose scrutiny.' Her beautyduseled the unstable Missourian. Head expected -t6' se a masculine young-woman, possessed ofno-more charms than Don Quixete's Dulciaca;, there fore the loveliness;of Mignon was a revelation so unexpected,, that he could do .nothing but stare at the fair apparition, as if quite bewildered. He could now father Mariot's motives, so far as this attractive divinity was concerned. He desired to secure her person, not so much for humanity's sake, as for his own ; for it seemed to Headley .impossible that one who had once seen Mignon should not love her. as ye passed on, revealing to. Headley the felicity of Brion, and the calm trust of Mignon. .He was maddened at the successes of one toward whom he had never felt any friendship, and one,' too, that his conscience assured-him was much his superior in moral attributes and sterling qualities. He saw them walk together, and the sight was hateful tohim; he 'heard them speak- ing- in low and confidential tones, and the sounds were torture to his ears. The partisan, absorbed in the presence of Mig- non, grew daily se observant of Headley, till-his' movements were entirely unwatched by him. It was then that the Missourian began to take walks by himself, which daily grew longer and extended farther from thecamp, As he returned regular- ly, and deported himself well, no suspicion was excited so far as Brion was concerned. Ong circumstance annoyed the Missourian;, he was. satisfied that Buckeye had followed him on, more than one occasion, which was a species of espionage threatening to prove fatal to his plas. After many: attempts he ,uceeeded in eluding, he believed, the vigilance of the trapper.. The hour was: between sunset and dark. By a circuitous route he reached the art of timber, near which the steel arrow had been so singuierly projected by an: unseen bowman,.and into the tree upon which'the, figure, of ,a man had been Carved with the point of a knife., 4 person ad-i vanced-from the timhenand met him, it was,the hal&breed. .,Together they passed into the:ob- scrity of the wood, and conferredearnestly for' along ti*ewhenHedlley hurried back to the, canon. At eleven o'clock, when the partisan walked throughthe encampment,, according to ,hisiabit, everything was as usual1;and Ve:went to sleep with the onsiousness that all was safe. hen he visitedMignon's tent in the moving, she was not there. While wondering at thecir-. cutance, Buckeye came t9 inform himthat, several of the horseIbad been stolen during the nighi Mignen's, among others. "Where is Headley?" asked Brien. "He's nott6 be found," said Buckeye. "By thebheardsof mth ,!" t Brien lost no time in useless repinings over what had happened. That he was perplexed and anxious will be believed, and needs no affirma- tion. With characteristic promptness he com- r minced asearch for Mignon The ground around the tent was thoroughly examined, but it:was not of a nature to leave a trail; there was a rocky ridge extending a mile or two from the anon, upon which the foot of ranor horse could make no impression. Thougir sharp-sighted and en- perienced, the partisan was unable to determine the,ceurse of the missing maiden. YUnder these circumstances, he mounted his horse to make a monre general investigation., Buckeye, like a faithful friend, attended the !captain, as much in- terested in the search, apparently as he. "Ialways Mistrustedthe cretr'," quoth the trapper, alluding to Headley, "and you remem- ber, perhaps, that I advised yourto have nothing to, do. with him, notwithstanding' his penitence like." "Ypour suspicions were at;inst shared by me ; but his correct deportmnent afterward restored my confidence," returned the mtbuntaineer. "I'm not blamin' ye for hein' .charitable, as 'twere, because charity is what we aulneed more or less. I ought to recollect, too that yournmind was much taken up with _that uncommon woman." The partisan's manly:face was suffused for a moment, and he answered,: "It is possible that , have been selfish in my happiness ; and upon reflection1I aminclined to think it is so." "No apologies, .cap'n;inslch a case it Isn't in human natur to be otherwise. She's the put- tiest woman alive, and interestin' to natch. As old as I am--andl'm a littlee up'ardasof forty'-. I'm almost fool enough tolove-her myself." " What pleasure it giyeo sne todiea you speak so kindly of her !" said Brion,warmly. ," Who could speak otherwise' ,,here'eno- body with a heart thatknows her that can say anythin' that isn't to her praise. You'hl'be a happy man with her; if nod 'twill be your own fault." " You forget, that -she may be lost to -me for ever ?" "{That'sa supposable case, but I can't make up my mind to it, yet. She'll turn up some- where, dead or alive, when' you aint expeetin' 7$ 1 i . tt 4 it j" t Y i f i. f t{{'' tf }}w t i f q t 4 1 r i r 'r r i{ e i 7;; page: 74-75[View Page 74-75] REDPATH. 75 74 her. I shall 'travel a great many miles lifore I ive heriup, ior despair in one day or two, or im a week or a month. Flash °'cateariffifte likea 19lid, and 'wont mit'd a"thousand miles if'tiavel seaoelyat all, 'specially whenihbEknows h6'he's 6t6e; in fact, the qiadrupipi neds execelse rather, to lubricate his 3'intl, like" ' ckeye-!" 'eicla ddtthe'partisan, "your iendship giv~ei necourage, and'makes -me think better'of my fellow-inei."i *4BeA of"iSmithi I'S 'like your charitable natfir'to isay that.4 rBt' that's not to the pint, st tly *&nde@*herie Callard and his band mafjbe abo~ut'tditime ' " On the march, and fhr ahead of us, doubt- less. Ahl' if it was not for this uinforhdnate affair, we mighihope to overtakethem. ' Clar- Iy,'they Will readbthetrapping-grounds first.' ",It can't be helped; you've labored under peculiar didikilties, and isn'tt in the "power of man. to )introl carcurastances so they'll work jest toone'p niaihd, The best of us are short- sighted inbrtals, atid-an't'see much beyond our noses. Providence deals with us percisely as it's a mindto,'kno in" the end from the beginnin'. Worrying never did, nobody no good, and never will as long ad the airth "carsumnavergates the air. 'We must'submit to what comes with be- eonn'brmissione knowin''it's from above, or soinwherea in that d'rection." ' had'fi endeavdred to do my best, for my employers:" 4i n(ake oath to ittin court of justice, with my hand on the Bible I- It's'true that you stop- ped a fefdays,'but hudnanity' required that you hold~ itedpath,liinilif, couldn't be so tnuch of a savage as to go on and leaveian honest fel- 16w-tmaneife'siknesnd'istres'he niatter what his'omnpleiton might happen to be. =No,'no'! such bitbuatity cud6 t * be'found. The wound- edanad siekintast be taken care of, fur or no tar; whethePcoipanie giffrI d onot. Them's ay notlin;nd ''m forty'and up'ards." " My ega td6 .,. '."? *It's equally your dui to look after this Mignon ldt what will come of 'it."' "'iiiat' my fied determination", but tell me,' iyfiehd, *here shall' we look?" "In sev'ral directionss ; Headley must be forind if it taies a:bnth; and perhaps you'll have to push on' after Callard-there's nokaow- ir'. 'And as fer -'ierre "Mariot, ,he "deserves lynchin' 1' " He's a villain!"4 "As wicked a scamp as evet Walked the prai- ries; Headleyekcepted/' I havehad a thought which perhaps I ought not to speak, but which, nevertheless, has given toe some uneasiness." "Speak it,' cap'n, 'less it's something* coin- promisin'the integrity of that onconiionfeiale; in which case you'd better be 'silent." I recollect that 'Headley tried to make him- selfvei'y agreeable to Miss Bellmar." "Beard of Smith ! I'in'shamed of you, cap'n. 'Ieansee what you're' drivin' at, and advise you to 'drop the subject where 'tis. -I've never seen the gal that knew her own mind better, though I'm forty and up'ads!' C I thank you, Buckeye; I certainly do wrong to doubt her." "Depend on't, wherever she's gone, it's again her will. She isn't one of the flighty kind, taken with every decentish face, and deceived by every artful tongue." f That is but justice to her good sense. I Shall ask her 'pardon for entertaining a thought even, not to her credit." : "I'll see that you don't forget it, cap'n. She's equal to any of the saints in the calendar, and you desert'S to do penance, as 'twere." "We must search for the villain, Headley; and I shall give myself no rest until I have found his lurking-place ; I will, cross prairies, I will climb mountains, I will cross valleys and rivers, and dare every peril of a savage country in this 'pursuit. My friend, I have an extraordinary in- centive to exertion; you :see that Mignon charms all; her beauty touches the heart of the redman' even; while-her goodness, kindness and gentleness win the friendship of 'the rough mountaineer., Yesterday'I was happy, for Mig- non' was near ne, but to-day I- am miserable, for I no longer see her face,' ntr hear her-voice." They rode on in silencejexamining closely all the route for miles. Justat sunset Brond struck a fresh 'trail leading -to the water, and both he tand Buckeye'swam theinhorses tothe othe-side. It was now too dark tofollowthe trail with cer- tainty,'and'they encamped for test and refresh- ment. But the' partisan could not, trnnquillize his' nind to repose, and inding'the fort to sleep isomne, he s6ftly arpse, the moment-he judged Buckeye'to be asleep,'and passed out of the tent acid started anewin' searchof the traill: He went onurtil he cares to a hill which he climbed and passed over to'the other side. At its base' was an impassable chapparal, and he turned aside to the'south. He soon came to a def surrounded by-red cedatand pines, where he found the re. mains of a fire still smoking: While Brion stood reflecting whether to con- tinue his solitary reconnoisance or return to Buckeye, he was startled by a low and trium- phant laugh near him. Raising his eyes and partially turning round, Brion beheld a specta- cle which sent the blood thrilling through his veins with unwonted rapidity; he was surround- ed by stalwort warriors whose dusky features looked grim and terrible in the darkness. In advance of the rest, and scarcely three yards from the jnountaineer, stood one whose dress' and bearing indicated him to be a chief, "And so the cunning Fox has come to the hunter ?" said he, repeating the laugh that had so electrified the partisan. " Has the Fox be- come a fool that he thrusts his Paw into the trap I" " The most Bunning are not.alwaysupon their guard, and an old squaw may sometimes surprise the panther sleeping on a tree," said Brion. "I trapped you once before, but the heart of, Ravenclaw was soft. The eyes of Lilyface turn- ed his blood to water. Wily trapper, you will, not live to see the next new moon. Last year, Prairiewolf scented you upon Snake River, when you were catching the beaver, but hecould not catch yon; now he has got his hand on you, and you cannot escape. What have you to say ?" "That I will give you much for liberty," re- sponded Brion. " Do you give liberty to the otter when you have taken it'? Do you spare the buffalo when you are.hungering for his flesh I Do you say to the panther, go in peace, when you have levelled your rifle at her heart ? Fox, you have lost your cunning 1". "I have gunS and ammunition, hatchets and hunting-knives, beads, bells and mirrors, and strong horses," replied the trapper. "It-is not so; you have nothing ; not even life. Listen, we have a vow to- kill the first living thing that cae e among us. White man, 'such vows are never broken." "I, have heard of such a custom prevailing among your people ; but it is a cruel and use- less one. If I:must be sacrificed, it will make but little difference whether I die to-night - or three days hence ; therefore giveme three days liberty, and at the expiration of that time I will return,- when you can fulfil your vow.", " Wa-wa ! I was right when I said the: ox was growing 'foolish; he is getting into his dotage.". - "I swear by the Great Spirit; that I will re- turn and surrender myself a prisoner, to 'suffer the death you hive determined upon!" added Brion, with emphasis. " Paleface, that cannot beF! Even if you came back, Ravenclaw might again give you life ; but LX will not trust you; your heart)is not big enough to keep your word. If you come, it would 'be with your. hunters at your heels, with their rifles cocked andat their faces. Prai- riewolf is not a child that he should be deceived by words which are as smoke curling' from the top of a wigwam, to pass away into the air and be remembered no more." The partisan felt a cold; sickly sensation creep- ing over him, his blood seemed to flow back upon his heart with horror ; he experienced dn-instinc- tive shrinkingthat reached to his Wry marrow. Prairiewolf eyed him, a mocking smile on hislips. " Prairiewolf, when the Master of Life calls for us, we must-go ; but the whiteimaa has dif- ferent notions from the savage. His flesh is more sensitive to the fire than the red man's, be- cause he has never been taught to despiseits tor- tures. If nothing but my death will suffice, strike your knife into my breast and let nme-pass at once to the hunting-grounds." "A squaw might die in that way ; a great chief like you deserves a inore honorable death." A brave approached, to bind Brion's hands. Resolved to secure a sudden death or escape, with his hatchet he struck the savage -down at Prairiewolf's feet, and bounded from the dell with the speed of a deer ' But there were those after him swift of foot andftireless- in pursuit; and having scarcely three jards the start of his pursuers, themountaiseer could hardly hope for success. He was overtaken, carried back, and bound in a'mnsnuer to preclude the possibility of a second attempts "You are not quick,; enough:!"- said Prairie- wolf, tauntingly. '"A boy could run faster." "But, a boy could not do, that I" retorted Brion, pointing to the body of the bravewhom he had stricken. " We shall see," resumed Prairiewolf, fiercely, "how you will bear up under the ordealof the twelve fires !" " The will of God -be done!i"' replied Brion, commending himselfto that Being who is apt to be forgotten in prosperity, and remembered only, in adversity.- it page: 76-77[View Page 76-77] 76 CHAPTER XII. ", '', 'S a 5OAP$. tIshe moo up,c'n ?" said-Buckeye, rub. bi n ie s:eye: There not, beiht any response, he added, presently, " I 'spect it's alfout time to be tsrin. The'sllenderemaining unbroken,Buckeye arose and tht ned to.the spot where-he attppdsed Brion tembe slumberIn': "Beard of. the ptophet:Snmithil He isn'there ! Well, he -"an't be far off, that's sartin. Per- ls"ps hds° gohe after-the horses. No he hasn't, neither there theystand in plain sight." , "By the bok of Mormon.!" -exclaimed Buck. eye, suddenly. "Soiebody's a'ter the cap'n's hoss "" His observant eyes had detected-a man croucked in the grassin the act of cutting the sideline from the trapper's steed. "Look this Way!" shoutedBuckeye.. Thethief obeyed,: not certain that the words were ,Adressed to himi but all doubts were dis- pelled whenhe saw the -trapper's long rifle cov- ering his head. "Iff youth life's worth anythtn' in particular to ye, getup and conie this way, and try to remem- berthat If yo:runh, 11l drop you as I would a 'tarnal' eatamount-I"- The detected' ofbnder reluctantly advanced, revealing nolepsa personage than the half-breed. " O, it's yoh;,is it' ?. Well, this is nice kind of business-ibr a, crettir with white blood in his veins. I s'pec% there's no other branch of in- dustry thattyou cads git into," said Buckeye, as Beavertaker approached. "iWith the jieopt with whom I live, horse- stealingis not -esteeined a crime, but- rather a virtue," retuted Seavertaker - "Well, Jestia' down on your knees and say over n little sunthin, and I'll give ye a bit of a lifttoiward thehallWbreed kentry. I s'pect you haven't got Ingin blood enough in ye to care any great-Wiott a' death-song, And as for your cx- plifai It wont take long to tell 'em." At that'finstant something fell 'softly at Bea- vertaker's feet; who, :thereupon, evinced much agitation. " Beavers and otters I- it's an arrow I" -ex-. eclaimed Bdckye. 3ut the half-breed was too much terrified to speak. "Yon look' 'iiian' h*ite about the tuouth, and I reckon there's a heap of meaning' in this little tuessenger. Come, half-breed, find your tongue." tab#ni ImiDATH "Yes; there is indeed meaning in if,"answer- ed Beaertakerystrihing to master his far. "It tells me that my life hangton a thread.'=it warns " fie to begone, and upper no morlin the coun- try of the Blackfeet onpain of death.", "'Tis the work of Redpath !" said the trap- per, in a subduedvoice. "The unknown eretur is near; his noiseless feet are walkin' around us; his eagle' eyes are seeid' us, and hiaquiver is full of these polished instruments of death.", "There is too much truth in what you say. I shall tarry no longer amid these hills; ;Imust direct my footsteps to some distant spot where the name of Redputh is unknown." "If that's the case, then free your conscience at once, and you'll go lighter for avin' east off a great burden of deviltry," advis - Buckeye. "There is one thing I regret," added the half- breed, with some show of remorse. " That's right; I'm glad to hear ye say so; it makes half-breed human natur appear to better advantage. Tell me what it is that-you're sorry fort" " I will; it is that I sold myself to Pierre Mai-lot." "And well you may, for he is a villain. 'As it can't now make any difference to you, either in regard to your pay or futur prospects, inform me what Mariot has been tryin' to do ?"' "At first his object was to destroy the trap. pers of the American Fur Company." "That I 'have - found out already," said the trapper. " When Mignon appeared," resumed Beaver- taker, " and went over to Brion's party, it then became hi great object to obtain possession of her person, and by a series of-persecutions, over- come her objections to his wishes." "And what might his wishes:be t" "To make her Madame Mariot, of course.". "(I have yet another question to ask." "Ask it." " Can you tell me where Mademoiselle Bell- mar is now l" "She is, travelling-toward the flails as fast as fleet horses can carry her. She is with Ma- riot, andwHeadley was his instirennt. But the end is not yet; Headley loves her, and there -will be a struggle between the two." - "Beard of Smith i Jestwhatithought!' Put two scoundrels'together to serve the devil, and directly they'll go to cuttin' each other's throats. What trail- is that the cap'n and I have been following' ?" "That of a small party'of Blackfeet who have sworn never to 'return to theirvillage without a prisoner" "Ah, that gives me an idea-, Depend on't, the cap'n's in trouble. It's probable that the thought of Mignon kept him awake, ahd he got up and.,followed this trail, and has been taken by this war party. By Joe's Smith's beard!- I must be after him." "Madman, stop!' you will but go to share his' fate !"- " Share his fate? I'm willin' to-I'm *illin' to, if I can't save him. What is fire to a true' soul ? It's nothin'! All the fire in the world can't burn up the mortal principle of an hon- est man !" -said Buckeye, with fervor "Follow your destiny, and I will mine. Time is passing, and to meit is the same as life. But I turn my back upon these familiar scenes with sorrow ; I love the prairies and the wide skies over them; the mountains have become dear to me, and I love to hunt the buffalo upon the great hunting-grounds of the red man. I go, and we shall 'never meet again. Honest trapper, fare- well !" Beavertaker said no more, but turning away, was soon out of sight. "The kentry's relieved," said the trapper ; " it'll breathe easier, feel better, and stan' longer, I dare say. It can't be' said'that Redpath hasn't done some good, previdin' he's had a hand in the matter ; for one, I'm obleged to him, be he man or demon. But I musn't forgit for an in- stant that-the cap'n's in danger. I'll hop on to. Flash and it shall go hard with me if I don't find him. Flash can scent an Ingin as- far as a dog can his master." Buckeye hastily saddled his horse, and leav- ing Brion's animal to shift for himself, was soon in motion. With his nose near the ground Flash followed the trail of the mountaineer. When Flash had gone on in this manner for a half or three quarters of an hour, he stopped, snuffed the air, and shook his head. " He smells the greturs " said Buckeye,;, "they're near-I never =new him to fail." 'He dismounted and stood a moment beside his horse. "Flash," said he; gently, stroking the crea- ture's neck with his hand, " we've been friends a great;while, and it wouldn't be like ye to desert me now. 'Stay here and be as still as death. If I don't see ye agin;,but go under, the same as' a good many better men have, don't never let an Ingin riptile swing his leg across your back." Stooping.until his figure presented but half its usual attitude, the .trapper glided onward.end soon reached the dell, where active preparations were being made for the death of the prsonea. The savages had already fixed twelve green stakes in the ground and werp gathering heaps of fagot4.. To Buckeyethis was a .urnful spectacle;. he gazed from his place of conceg- ment with mingled feelings of horror and indig- nation. He felt himself in a' dreadful dgemma; he could witness the agonies of his friend with but little chance of aiding him, or he could fly for assistance back to the canon with the terrible fear following him at every step: that he might be too late to save his life, Thus he remained. Knowing that it would be rash to undertake any- thing in favor ofBrion against such numbers, he concluded to go for assistance, hoping, by diat of hard riding, to, return .in season to save the captain's life. Creeping back, he mounted Flash and rode away as fast as his fleet limbs could carry him. , Meantime, the partisan was lying upon the ground in the- most painful position. He saw the green stakes driven, fagots brought, dry pine splinters prepared, and various other arrange- ments' calculated to shake the sternest resolution. He had abandoned himself to his fate with a kind of despairing apathy, when -sudden recollection like a gleam of .light flashed through his mind. " Prairiewolf," said he, "it is not the will of the Great Spirit that I should die now." "White men talk often of the Great Spirit, replied the chief, ironically. , "Why do you think he has not called you, and that you shall live longer upon the earth 2" " Unbutton my hunting frock, and you will find that beneath it which will answer your question." Bending over Brion, he tore open his frock, and there was revealed to his wondering ight the figure of a raven wrought in beads. . Prairie- wolf stood silent and confounded; rage and die- appointment were pictured upon his visage. "Accursed Fox !" .he exclaimed. "Some of your.cunning ydt remains. This is indeed a mighty medicine. I will show.itto my warriors, and hear what they say." Prairiewolf took the talisman, and going away a little distance, called his 'braves ,around him, when considerable talking followed in low toned. Presently the chief returned, and giving the mountaineer the memento that-seemed to possess such power, said: : t f, z f aC u P1 .i N#, : i u 4 2-4 page: 78-79[View Page 78-79] RED1ATB. 79 "You were right,;paleface ; your time has not come ; youn'ay yet live many moons to trap the otter and the beaver. , See ! I cut tour bands; rise up ; you are free !" The mountaineer sprang lightly to his feet, and the fear of a painfuldeath rolled back from his soul, Ie stretched out his arms-heshook himself like-an impatient steed-a sense of free- dom made him happy. "'Tis the providence of God 3" he exclaimed. "Yes," said Prairiewolf, "it is a great thing that has happened. There is your ways-go ! But'remember that you shall yet feel the claws ofPrairiewolf!3"-, . "To thank you for -my life, would be giving you too much credit for humanity; I shall there- fore reserve my gratitude for one more powerful than thou. Adieu, unfriendly red man 1" A brave advanced and handed Brion his rife ; throwing the weapon upon his shoulder, he walked from the camp of his enemies with a firm and dignified step. Brion took the way he had come, and as he increased the distance between himself and the savages, quickened his pace. "Wabuma !" said a voice near the moun- taineer, at the-moment when he was passing the chapparal adverted to in another place. The partisan cocked his rifle and looked for the speaker, who immediately emerged from the meaquit at his left., "1What is your purpose ?" questioned Brion, presenting his rifle. " To pay a debt I owe you!" "I know you not," added the captain. 'I Yan-kee, Iam Blackbird, son of the Raven," rejoined the Indian. , ~., The partisan eased the hammer of his rifle- lock softly back upon the unbroken cap, and dropped the breach of the weapon to the ground. "Ah ! I remember.". " Wabuma I attend thou ! When yonder war- party set out I was not ready, for I had certain rites to perform necessary to ensure success; I overtook them this morning, after you had given Prairiewolf the great medicine:" " Go on," said Brion. I " Prairiewolf cut your bonds, and said, 'Arise; you are atliberty, arise and depart.' "I "Yes," added Brion, wondering at what Blackbird was coning. "But," resumed the Indian, "he spoke do- ceitfully, and there was wickedness in his heart. Yan-kee, he has planned your death. When you pass yonder spring, two braves will spring upon you and ,dispatch you with their toma- hawks. Prairiewolf has sent themhere for that purpose; they are crouching in the grass, wait- ing the sound of your coming." "Blackbird, behold how the- Great Spirit re- wards me for a mnerciful act !" "Wa-wa ! the Master of Life is just; he'never forgets, and his red children are like him." "Do you not fear the consequences of betray- ing this secret"?" Brion asked. " I would have warned you of this- if the twelve fires that. were to be lighted for you were to be my only reward for the deed. I will repay the debt I owe you though they thrust my flesh full of blazing splinters, and burn out my tongue." "My brother," said Brion, with increased earn- estness, "I regret that my people do not better understand your race. I would to God that mutual hatred might no longer exist ; thatjeal- ousy and bloodshed might cease forever." "Yan-kee, I have given life for life ; go your way, and remember that Blackbird did not prove ungrateful." The Indian vanished like a spirit-so quickly did he glide into the tangled depths of the chap- paral-and the partisan changing his course, made a detour to the right, thus avoiding the ambush of the wily Prairiewolf. He reached the spot where he had left Buckeye, found his horse quietly feeding, but of course saw nothing of the trapper or Flash. It was now daylight. Thinking it probable that Buckeye was looking for him, Brion con- cluded to remain in that vicinity awhile, believing he should be more likely to find him, in that way than by searching for him. He did not by any means intend to slumber, but having slept none during the night, nature proved stronger than his resolution, and he fell into an unquiet sleep, in which he dreamed of the-Blackfeet and Mignon. He was aroused from his somnolency by sounds that would not have been noticed by one who had not passed many years in country where constant watcb lness was required, but which proved to be produced by human feet ; for the first object that met the mountaineer's gaze was a man who was looking wistfully at his horse. e "Stranger," said Brion, "what, brings you here '"" The individual, who obviously had not seen the partisan, now turned toward him with a start indicative of surprise. t "Ah;" added Brion, immediately, "I think we have met before'" "Yes, and not much to my advantage," re- plied the man, pointing to' a wound upon his head. "You received that little memento of my good will at the timber near the canon," continued the partisan. "I'm pretty well aware of it !" said Kincaid. " This meeting, I perceive, di- opportune ; I have some questions to propose to you which I hope you will answer without prevarication. My first' question is, can you inform me where Pierre Mariot is ?" "I shall not answer," said Kincaid. " My next," resumed Brion, " is this : Is Miss' Bellmar with him?" * "I reply to that as to the other question." " Villain !" exclaimed Brion. "If that suits you, why let it be so," replied the Frenchman, with a sneer. " You were doubtless about to appropriate my horse ?" " I supposed it to be an estray." "No apologies ; horse-stealing, I presume, could psily be reconciled to- your conscience ; you are not tender, I think. But as the civil questions I have asked remain unanswered, I will propose another: Tell me if you have any knowledge of the movements of Headley ?" " I have.". " That is well; where is he ?" . " That is something I did not agree to tell, you. "A truce to this obstinacy ! I am intensely interested in Miss Bellmar, and the movements of Headley. and Mariot ; tell me where to find them, and I will make it worth your trouble." 0, you will buy me?" "If it does not go beyond my means, yes. Name your price ?" "You spoke of buying my knowledge ; what will you gife ?" "What do you demand ?" " 'there is your horse ; it is a fine one; I will accept him as a gift, and in return for your kindness, tell you all I know of Mademoiselle Bellmar and Mariot," said Kincaid, with a cool. effrontery provoking to Brion,- who was loth to' part with an animal he valued highly. "It is ahard bargain you are driving with me, but I will compromise the matter by giving you the price of the animal in money or such goods as I have at the encampment," he answered. BEDPATH. "No,'hat will. not de; I'll have the horse, or it's no trade, and not a word passes my lips; so choose, apd that quickly, for I want to be off,": he said. "You are indeed a pitiful knave, and itstaxes my patience sorely to keep from laying violent hands upon you; nevertheless; if these are your easiest terms, I accept." " Saddle him and bring him here, and place the bridle rein in'my hand, that I may be sure there is no trickery about it." With a sigh of regret and something like re- morse, the partisan complied .with.this request. Kincaid took the bridle and threw it over the animal's neck. The horse, resenting this famil- iarity from a stranger, or frightened at the sud- denness of the act, reared and backed, Kincaid retiring with him, until he was several yards from the mountaineer, then springing with agility to-the saddle, gave him the rein, and struck his flanks with his heels. In a second he was gal- loping away. Brion drew up his. rifle with the intention of wounding the rascal, but it missed fire. Kincaid had taken off the cap while he was saddling the horse. "Put on a cap 3" shouted the Frenchman, looking back over his shoulder. At that instant the partisan saw a gleamof light passing through the air; Kincaid cried out like ore in mortal pain, and fell headlong from the horse. Brion hastened to him ; he found him upon the ground in the agonies of death:. a steel-headed arrow had passed through his lungs, and the glitter- ing point was visible near the spinal column be- neath the left shoulder.. He fixed his glassy eyes upon the mountaineer. " It is ended I" said he, in a husky voice. " I'm dying. My fears were prophetic-Red- path has stricken me. I wished for your horse to leave this accursed region-but it is useless to struggle with fate. But I will confess this. Miss Bellmar is with Mariot and Headley; you will find them somewhere, on the trail to the city of the Great Salt Lake. Raise me up a lit- tle." Brion did so, supporting him with his willing arms. "When the breath has -left me, honest Brion, tie a heavy stone to my body and sink it in the waters of the Nebrasta." "Yes," said Brion, "I will do it." "That is all; it grows darker-thy portals are grim and horrible-but-but death-is eter- nal--eternal sleep !" Kincaid never spoke again. . , ''. ' :.y a R 3 [42 1 r { 7 ' r e 'l $ i 88a i , -Si t l . 7 ] { / ! J k f t i ! 1 " } i ' ., Z ti it1 't 4.'N "v- page: 80-81[View Page 80-81] 80 RpAH. C0"I.TER XIY. A NEW-COMER INTO TEE t'IELD. ! " Ir death is an eternal slumber,"rmused Brion, " then he who has lived the best in the world will sleep' the mosttranquilly. This. clod; was. but recently a man, now it is insensateouatter ready to return to the great .body of nature whencd it was derived." "Beard of the; irinortil Joe !". cried a well- known .voice, and thereupon the partisan felt himself hugged as if insthgembraces.of abear. "Beavers and otters ! guns and gunpowder 1" The reader will Perceive that Buckeye had returned. "'Well:ecap'n, this is what I, call sing'lar!I Why, I didn't much expect to see you ag'in in the 'rthly tabnercle of your nat'ral body.!" "Ispirit has notlesh and bones-as ye see me have," said Brion, sharing fully in Buckeye's gladness. "In-course not, for in that case one.couldn't never spect to reach the now Jeroosalem unless he went up in a billoon ; for the force of gravity, you know, would keep himrooted to the nateral sile. How in the name of Smith did you get clear of the Ingin creturs I" . "First let me ask, my friend, how you learn- ed that I was a prisoner ?" "Why, Igiskivered ye, in course, and saw the riptiles drivin' green stakes into the ground to the number of twelve and up'ards." "You took the trail. 2" " Flash and I, yes.: I must say I found ye in a bad predicament. Twelve fires ! three days ! great: Smith !" "I perceive you are acquainted withthe whole affair. " " That mixed individoval the Ingins callDea- vertaker has been here }and he told me about the war-party and their;vow; and you bein' gone,, I put that and that together, and.made up my- mind what had happened. which was confirmed by goin' arter ye. But by the beard I what have you: here I" "You can examine and satisfy yourself." "The body of a man with an arrow driven, through his-lungs,~the pint stickin' from the back." " True," said Brion. . " Beavers and otters let us hear about it." The 'artisan stated the circumstances of the case. "'Tis the work of Redpath 1" added Buckeye, in an undertone. " He is yeteat his old trade; he's near us by night and by day ; he's, never asleep; li.-afoot never tires; and his quiver is never empty." 0 "A wily foe," returned Brion. "And not only wily but terrible" resumed the trapper. " Terrible to those whom he marks for de- struction; to others-he may be quite different." " It woukin'gg be strange if we should fuller *rter them that has felt his power and gone un- der the sile. Weought to think of the futur, and be ready to go at a second's warnin'. In ease I should be the fast to ;give up airthly things, I want you nto.take Flash and be a good master to him-the faithful brute." "It's my opinioneyou are destined for a long life and a happy one; nevertheless should I out- live you, Flash shall never want care and atten- tion; he shall receive no, stinted rations of pro- vender, his work shall be light, and he shall die of old age."..- ' " That sounds right and proper, and arranges all my airthlyrnatters with the exception of my rifle and sich like, which you must keep in re- membrance of Buckeye--the free trapp " "A brave soldier frequently make 's will while going to battle ; but let us hope that I shall not execute yours until I am myself a very old man. Now tell ine where you have been--- to get help,,I dare say ?" "Yes, I started for the canon, but met one of your old trappers well-mounted, and, sent him with the news of your capture. Before noon, twenty-five brave fellers will behere-chaps that wont shrink from a skriumage.", "'We shall need them, possibly, for another purpose." . " To pursue Mariot and Headley 2" " That is my design," said Urion. "But I must attend to the last wish of this poor fellow, which was to give him a burial in the waters of the Nebraska." The body was lifted upon Brion's horse and carried to the river, to the summit of a cliff over- hanging the water. While they were preparing it far its final resting-place a orsemenn was seen upon the opposite. bank; who, perceiving the mountaineers, called to them, desiring to know if the river, was fordable. The captain informed him that there was a sand-bar, reaching two- thirds of the distance across; b4t notwithstand- ing he would in some places fnd itbeyexd his horse'ssdepth., The stranger attempted the passage, succeed- ing verywell' until within twenty yards of the shore, when--the horse not- being a very pow. erful swimmer, and the water being deep and swift--he was borne downward with the current and his life endangered. The partisan perceiv- ing his peril, did not hesitate to plunge in to his rescue, which, happily, he effected. The man was taken from'the water much exhausted. 'He proved to be'a person past middle age, very re- spect4 in appearance, and a Frenchman. s Dieu!" exclaimed he, reviving from the effects .of his bath. " I am getting too old to travel in such a barbarous country. Ma fois ! I should have been drowned but for your friend-' ly aid." " Then my' being, here was providential," re- plied Brion. ".Evidently -so ; -thanks' be to the Divine. Being !" said the stiaunger, fervently. " We were performing a melancholy service when you appeared, which we will now com- plete. We were on the point of committing the mortal remains of a fellow-being to the keeping of this river." "Ing1! a sad affair to perform in this great solitude ; one of your companions, doubtless 1" " Guns and gunpowder, no !" exclaimed . Buckeye. " We don't associate with sich." "Please come this way, sir," requested Brion. "Diable ! he was shot with an arrow !" cried the Frenchman. , "And it was a fate he richly desarved, though we shouldn't judge too harshly of our feller- creters," said Buckeye. " He was a bad man, then?" "He hadn't no principles, whatsoever ; he was in the employment of Pierre Mariot, part- ner in the firm of Bellmar & Mariot of West- port," rejoined the trapper. The Frenchman seemed astounded, looking from Brion to Buckeye and from -Buckeye to Brion as if 'he could not well credit what had been affirmed. " It appears to work you up .somewhat, stran- Iuger; but sich a spettacle as this may nat'rally do so. Perhaps you've heard of Redpath and perhaps you haven't; but whether you have or haven't-and it probably don't make no great odds-jest look afore ye, and -you'll see a spec- imint-of his work," "tThis is most wonderful !" said the stranger, trembling with excitement. "I have heard-of Redpath. I hope this is the only white man he has killed-within your knowledge ?" ' "I wish it ffas, but it isn't; by no means ; sev'ral have felt his arrows and knocked under- as 'twerp." The Frenchman now looked attentively .a the partisan. "If I mistake not;" he said, "this is Captain Brion, the famous mountaineer ?" "My "name is Brion," replied the captain, modestly,-"but I believe I am not very famous." " Thanks to the intercession of the saints ! this is well. Perhaps you can tell me something concerning my daughter, Mignon ?" said the Frenchman, hurriedly. "Otters! aree you the old gentleman'!" ex- claimed Buckeye. "Well, I may say the cap'a has behavedrealhandsome toward the gal. He' been the same as a father to her, and brother, too, for that matter, with a little sister thrown in. Bless you, sir, he's run allsorts of risk I twelve fires-three days--roastin'-pine splinters, and so on." "For which he will accept a father's gratitude. Lead me to her at once." " I'm not much in the habit of advisin' peo- ple older nor myself, but if I might be allowed to speak in a case like this, I should say keep down your nat'ral feelin's tell we find her. When she's once diskivered, you can be led to her, I reckon; but till then, I don't, think it can be done. The truth is, that uncommon woman slipped away from us when we wasn't expectin' it ; if it hadn't been 'for that'carcumstalce, your wouldn't have seen us here, for we're arter her." Mr. Bellmar's countenance indicated the Alepths of his disappointment, while Brion pro. ceeded to explain the matter as well as he could ; in addition to which he mae a general state- ment of all that had happened to Mignon, as far as he knew. "I trust," said Monsieur Bellmar, after a pause, "that my daughter's deportment has been at all times such as becomes one of her years and sex ?" " Guns and gunpowder ! if she'd been queen of England, she couldn't conducted herself nd better ! I say it without meanin' no hurt'to any- body'of her'kind ; but I've never seen her 'dqual, on the prairies or off, in towns or cities, and I'm forty and up'ards." Buckeye spoke with particular enthusiasm, rounding the fikki-period with a vigorous cut of his right hand throughlythe:air. Belimarlooked gratefully at thestrapper, of whose sincerityhe had not a doubt,'his earnest- ness fully attesting to his honesty. . "r. i 1; a ' 1 i a . A A !p ( C , t. } ' a [ e 1 $j1 BWPATK Q1 page: 82-83[View Page 82-83] ;,ai. 0 82 BWPATH? CHAPTER XV COnCLUSION. LEAVING these parties, we return once more to Mignon. She had retired as usual, but a little after midnight was awakenedrby a-sense of suf- focation, and discovered that-a handkerchief-was tied tightly across her mouth, and her hands firmly held by a man, who instantly raised her in his arms and bore her swiftly from-the tent. 'Be quiet, mademoiselle! no personal injury ordisrespect is intended," said a voice which she recognized as Headley's. Mignon struggled and attempted to alarm the camp, but against Head- ley her feeble strength availed nothing. She was ,on clear of the canon, when she was placed upon a horse ; but the handkerchief was not-re- moved untilshe had ridden as far as the timber, where Headley was joined by Beavertaker who had just reached the spot with several horses,' her ovi among the number, which, as the reader knows, he had stolen. Mignon being free from the restraint of the handkerchief wasof course at liberty to express her-indignation at such an outrage ; a privilege ofwhich she did not hesitateto avail herself. " Mademoiselle Bellmar, I am acting under the influence of a passion that masters me. Do not hold me responsible for ay deeds'; indeed, you have driven me mad !" said he. "You screen: yourself :under a miserable sub- terfuge ! You cannot disguise from me the fact that' youare acting under the instructions of Pierre Mariot," Mignon replied.,. "In adoring you; I most certainly do not act- ander his orders," returned the Missourian. " Tell me yoiff purpose ?" said Mignon. 'My hope is that at some future time you will come to regard me in a manner far more kindly," responded Headley, with an air of humility. "If you would have such hope realized, con- duct me whence you have -taken me," she re- plied. " That I cannot consent to do; though if you fill, I will save you from annoyance from Market." "That you may annoy me yourself- Yes, I see; but the change will not be welcomed by me. I demand my liberty, and you cannot, if a man of honor, refuse my wish. Whenwoman sues lanshould 'otbe-inflexible." - " I could witness yourdeathirith'more' calm- ness than your, return to Captain Brion, Miss Bellmar !" he exclaimed, with emphasis.;; REflPATHS. "Then entreaties are vain;"and it only re- mains forme to submit to my fate; begging, how- ever; to be treated-with the.deference due t¢ my sex and honor," saidMignon,-deepai$ngly. "You can do no more and no better, madem- oiselle." If you,,prefer, you may ride your own- horse, you- perceive he is here ," I " Yes, I preferto ride Brave,..suffer me to do so." It was some alleviation of her distress to find herself upon her favorite steed again; and she indulged also a secret hope that s ight escape by ;reason of his speed, by takin , an- tage of some moment 'when Headley was less watchful. She observed that blankets had been cut in pieces and tied upon the horses' feet to render the trail indistinct; also that the hardest ground was chosen to favorthe same intent. The party crossed the Nebraska before sunrise, upon a raft that had been constructed for that purpose, which was destroyed when they reached the shore. Mignon's patience and firmness was tiken put to a severe test, for Mariot joined them, accompanied by Kincaid, but the latter imme- diately left with Beavertaker, and did not return. Mariot' affected a dignity and reseda which Mignon knew was foreign to his character, and which was assumed to cover .his designs from Headley, also to awe thetfair captive into silence and respect. They now travelled very fast, Pierre being careful to keep at some distance from the young. lady, wishing to' escape her keen questioning,' and deserved rebuke. Mignon quickened the pace of Brave and rode to his side. She desired. to be informed by what authority he assumed the control of her person, an4 where he intended to conduct her. Mariot replied to the effect-that she must content herself not-to know at present, but that all, eventually, would result to herad- vantage. This was unsatisfactory; Miss Bellmar urged her just interrogatories with becoming spirit. The Frenchman finally grew angry, and .re- proached her for rejecting ,him at Westport, ac- cusing her also of unmaidenly conduct in plac- ing, herself-under the protection of Captain Brion, a rough and rude.trapper, -,ot fit for the companionship of one gently reared, and possess- ed of lady-like and reined instincts. " Evil-minded, invidious man t" exclaimed Mignon, vexed and wounded by his-base intima- tions. "My aversion for your .character mo- mentarily increases. ' Think not to shake my 1~ constancy of.purpose, or conquer my contempt for you." Headley, who 'was riding in the rear, hearing the altercation, rode up and reproved Mario. for his bad temper, though in language not offen- sive. Pierre choked dgwn his resentment, and no more conversation of that nature ensued. As many of Headley's men as lIariot was able to mount had been sent forward the day pre- vidus; these they overtook before night; they were ait for the remainder at a certain place kno Beavertaker and Kincaid, who were to meet them upon the stolen horses and conduct them there by another route. Mignon complained of fatigue and requested Headley to encamp for the night ; an artifice which she hoped would prove advantageous to Brion, who, she doubted not, .would be able to find the trail, notwithstanding all the precautions taken. ' Mariot objected to this proposal, wish- ing to hurry on as fast as possible till morning. A difference of opinion thereupon arose, which was decided by vote among the men, and against the judgment of Mariot. This circumstance en- gendered. ill-feeling between the leaders, which, enhanc l by mutual jealousy, showed itself often the following day. Mignon foresaw a quarrel, which possibly might produce some change in her favor, -yet inwardly fearing the crisis that seemed approaching. The same scene in regard to camping was enacted at the close of the second day with the same results. Mignon slept and was hopeful-more hopeful than at any time since her abduction. The morning sun arose with peerless bright- ness. Nature was glorious in h beauty. The wide- spreading prairies exhalil eWeand fragrance. The little camp was astir. Mignon stood near Brave, with her eyes turned wishfully toward the Wind River Mountains from which she was daily receding. Could she forget the scenes that had transpired at the feet of those mighty ranges ? Never!l they had impressed their - thrilling events upon her soul, to remain there'as' long'as life and memory lasted. -Mariot. approached.. Mignon remarked that his face wore a gloomy expression. Headley followed him; both stopped a" few'paces from her. 'Ihope,' she said, addressing Mariot, "that you have come to tell me that you regret what you hate done ?" "No," he moodily replied, "I only regret your perverseness." . 88 "How will you account - for your conduct to my father ?" resumed Mignon. "That need not give you uneasiness," return- ed Mariot. "Did the thought ever occur to you, Monsieur Mariot, that Redpath may be near us ?" inquir- ed Mignon, after a pause.,*- "Diable!" exclaimed Mariot, with a ,slight shudder. "I wish you would never speak that name in my hearing. "Is the dread of that- man then so strong upon you ?" she continued. "You have chosen an inauspicious subject mademoiselle !" impatiently rejoined Mariot. " Possibly so; but perhaps you believe in omens, premonitions, and such things ?". resum- ed Miss Bellinar, perceiving the theme annoyed him. " It matters iot;.it can make no great differ- ence in our present relations. That I feel dark within, and an unwonted gloom weighs heavily upon me, I confess. I will acknowledge even more than this-there is a vague yet terrible fear of death upori me." Mariot stood with his face to Mignon, his arms folded on his breast. His eyes were turned to her while he spoke with an expression that seem- ed to 'ask sympathy. At this moment his lips ceased moving, he groaned and fell at Mignon's feet, who, thinking he had fainted, looked at him with contempt; but that feeling. changed to ab- solute awe when she discovered ' the shaft of an arrow, the point of which was lodged inhis brain. While she gazed at this spectacle,. so unexpected and so fearful, a man rushed from a ,growth of pinon just behind her, and embracing her, exclaimed : " My daughter ! my daughter 1" '(My dear father!" cried Mignon, recovering somewhat from her bewilderment and returning his caresses. - -. "Beavers and otters 1" Mignon raised her eyes and saw Brion and- Buckeye approaching, and held out both hands to them. "Welcome'! most welcome !" she exclaimed, with' a radiantsmile. "Guns' and gunpowder! the cap'n's been most distracted, and gone through all sorts . of dangers-twelve fires-three days--roastingr- pine splinters !" added Buckeye, venturing to touch Mignon's little hand. " For' which he has my eternal gratitude," said Monsieur Bellmar. 4-4- a ! t jS; z. i y 1, i 9 . 5 + _+ E }' s a 1 ' iI J (9 . ! r { % ' t c . I= '! ''t 3i i ty t .' ' l _ n T S i'H 4 r I page: 84[View Page 84] . F PAT~n. "A&mine idamsdre," said Mignon. "Beard of Smitht h whatss'more'n that-he wants youyouselfI" quoth Buckeye, bluntly. "Ifmy-father does not say 'No,' why-Ithin k We inafjossiblyssrange it," said Mignoin. "pon y'aoaul t . believe 'it's a:nrranged already, and very welarranged,:too !'Diable ! this wretched man died :suddenly," .added Bllmart "There's another that ought to-follow him," affirmed Buekeye. " Where is the eretur, I wonder ?" Bielon looked arottd bfor'Headley, but.'he had disappeared; and we will remark here as the most'app opriate place, that he was never seen again by'any ode :of the parties; what became' of him is not known. Awed by the fate of Mariot, disappointed by the flight ofJeadley, and convicted of the error, they' had; committed, the gold-seekers flocked around the partisan .and manifested such signs of repentaneraid. begged~so hard to be received into his band again, that he'forgave them. The whole party immediately set out on their return to 'the:encampnient' at' the canon. The trap- per that had -started for the rescue of Brion from the 'Blackfeet, accompanied him to the rescue of Mignon; but were concealed in a wood about half a mile distant. While the body of Mariot was being interred, the partisan and:Mignon walked alone, discours- ing 'of recent events. The- latter hearing a aund behind her, turned andbeheld iavenelaw. Brion also discovered him at the same -mo- ment.' " Son of the Buffalo !" said he,,calmly, "the, Great Spirit has given yon a charmed life. You have conquered 'your enemies; you have been as successful 'insWe as on the trail. You will live many moons,-andhe happy."= "Chief of the Blackfoot nation, may you live longer and be':happier than I,"' answered Brion, *arnaestly'° -4I: ask not for 'life," returned I avvuelaw;, proudly. ".The rising and setting of suns can fring no JOY.' thkos l of Ravenclaw; -the'wan- ing and falling ofAmoons are to him but mean- ingless'this.' 'But,ion of 4he Buffalo,.it is diffetent with thee; thou hest a country, thou hast Lilyfaee," I0have much-to live for," said-Brion. "Your people are growing in greatness even: as mine are- dwindling away," added :Raven- clawsadly. "Y r Y nation Will ioon flow over these mountains, and my race will be pressed to -thosea, But I:shalenot'live to see it1 I shall have passed to the duuting-grounds when the white' 'man plants uponthe graves of my fathers."f "Go'with me to the cities of the white nanj' suggested Brion. . "Cursed be the cities of white me 'ed Ravenclaw. '"Ravenclaw, you have a noble nature," said Mignon, advancing and laying her hand on his arm. He looked, down upon her and amiled4 The sunlight shining upon his lofty brow, lent a strange charm to his face. ",The voice of Lilyface is like the dove," he added, softly. "Tell-me," resumed -Mignon, in a low. tone, her -hand-still upon his arm, "who is Redpath ?" He drew back haughtily, pushing her gently from 'him; his eyes glittered like fire. "Lilyface bas a short memory; 'she has ,for- gotten what she heard in yonder motutains. Redpath is the son of the Eagle,- and he Scorns to share his' secret with another. Again I say, I know-him not ; that'to me he is the greatest of all mysteries-mysterious ,as the .soul within me. I repeat it--Redpath will live unknown -. he will die high up in the cliffs-no cars shall hear his passing thunder-the paleface, shall never behold his grave. To the great and awm ful Master of Life he will commgend his spirit, and pass away becomes his name ,and deed. Son of the, B al, adieu Lilyf '. the chief's voice faltered, a little-" Lilyface, farae- well, forever i" Ravenclawsprang from the rock; -his m jestie figure was visible ansinstant, and then was hid, denfromtheir sight-they saw him no ,moe.. Brion's trapping campaigns are over. BY,: hs own fireside he talks with Mignon of .Redpthi Balaam, too, participates in his curiosity. Mig non grows pensive at the snention of his name, and is persuaded to this day, that Rvenclaw and Redpathlwere one; while Buckeye, in ;b annual visits to Westport, swears by the bear4 of Smith," whatever Mignon says must betrue. 7lE END. 4' 84 P. h.. A .w... .., . _ .
