The Royal Greens, or, The scout of the Susquehanna
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It forms ad of amusement it affords, and the trictest and highest tone of morality, d and pure, and avoiding all that is er loved, respected, and sought after ADVANCE. .............:.......1000 ......................20 00 of the PICTORIAL DRAWING-RooM $400 be obtained at anyof the periodical per single copy. F. GLEASON, d Tremont Streets, Boston, Mass. NT8 ih Streets, Baltimore. Streets, Cincinnati. esnut Streets, St. Louis. means. page: [View Page ] ,a , z - , 4 i/yy i¢gggg3 i CHAPTER I. DUNBAR, THE SCOUT. ARD byForty Fort, on the Susquehan- na river, upon a balmy morning in the summer of 1778, a group of persons, consisting of men of various ages, stood discoursing earnestly. The sub- ject under consid- eration was ob- viously of much importance, for every face wore a serious expression, and every word that was uttered appeared to be carefully weighed and its exact import understood. The individuals to whom the reader's attention is cited, were anxiously debating the best means Jof defending Wyoming Valley, in case that arch tory, Col. John Butler, should lead against their little settlement the malcontents of the Six Na- tions, together with no less merciless foes, with whiter faces but blacker hearts, to- be found all about them and among them-loyalists.. There were a few persons in the valley who affected to discredit entirely the startling rumors that were daily reaching them through various channels. Of this class were the Lanaways, the Winter- moots, and the Secards-names well remem- bered in the history of beautiful Wyoming. By the joint efforts of the residents, several forts had been erected, viz., Ogden, Wyoming, Durkee, Jenkins and Fort Forty. Just above the latter, Fort Wintermoot had been erected.-by the influence of the family bearing that name. Besides these fortifications, or stockades, there was a small fort on Monockonock Island. The reader unacquainted with the condition of Wyoming at that time, might be led to form the erroneous conclusion that the place was very well prepared for an attack and would repel a large force of the enemy with comparative ease. But this was far from being the case ; for nearly all the fighting men had been drafted for the continental army, and the real strength of the valley was at that time defending other portions of the country, hile Congress was, apparently, blind to the danger that menaced the settlements of the Susquehanna. With a few exceptions, but an inconsiderable number of old men, and mere youths, remained to ward off the blow that fN .4 I 4 d I THE ROYAL GR3 939NS* page: 10-11[View Page 10-11] THE ROYAL GIEK. I Id P 4. IS I THE ROYAL GREENS. menaced them from the Six Nations and the us with all his painted creturs, and there'll e tories combined, such a slaughter as has been seldom seen or Among the able-bodied men yet to be found read on. These are my nateral feelin's on the in the valley, one of tall and muscular propor- subject, expressed in my off hand and perhaps tions stood leaning upon his long rifle, listening homely way."ed from the fixed aze of Dungy to what was said, making occasionally a remark Lanaway turnedfo hefxdgaz fD when appealed to, but evidently chary of his bar, and Wintermoot moved about uneasily. words appe"You have then no doubts respecting the - Near him was a much younger individual, tentions of the tories, and Indians ?" resumed more talkative, and judging by his physiognomy, Devron, earnestly. not so, seriously impressed with a sense of peril "Doubt, sir !" returned Dunbar, "who can as the others. He asserted in a confident man- doubt after what has been heard I Let them as ner that the inhabitants were unnecessarily have wives and children, mothers, sisters and alarmed, and there was no good and sufficient sweethearts, look well to their safety, for fire, cause for the general apprehension that prevail-, the ballet and the'sword will soon do their work ed. This young man's name was James Lana- in this valley, and woe to them as can't fly to way. The opinion which he had advanced with' the mountains as. they did in Scripter times ¢ so much assurance was immediately endorsed and as for that matter, perhaps I might as well and doggedly sustained by an elder man called add, to them as do take to the mountains, pir- Wintermoot, the very person who had caused viden' they haven't some strong hand or daunt- the, fort to be constructed which then bore his less heart to care for 'em." name. "You haven't been among us a great while, "So far as I know anything about this mat- 'Dunbar, but ever since you came you have con- te, there is not much to fear at present," said tinually prophesied evil when there hasn't been r . any great need of it ; and for one I'm tired of "But what mean all these rumors ?" asked a hearing about dangers that never come," an- youngman by the name of Edward Gaston, swered Lanaway, sneeringly. "o he country is always full of idle rumors," " When you don't want to hear, you are at repliedLatiaway, with a sneer. liberty to stop your ears, youngster ; but when "I think we have reason to believe that But- mny advice is asked by a respectable man like ler with his Tory Rangers, or Royal Greens, as Mr. Devron, I shall allers give it, whether you they are called, are somewhere up the river, pro- like to hear the truth or not. It isn't probable paring to' make this now peaceful valley the scene that we shall ever agree together very well, for of carnage and blood," said Mr. Devron, a fine- a man as has callers loved his country, can't be looking man of about fifty, whose temples were made to think otherwise of it; sobe advised and beginning to be silvered over with those inevita- don't make too free with me when we happen to' ble marks of age-gray hairs. meet, for I amnt over and above patient and fbr- "Well, I suppose if yo are determined to bearin' to them as don't suit my fancy, and it frighten the women and children (and yourselves, might in some way or another be the worse for too, for that matterL you can do it; but for my you, and rather work agin you in the long ru, par I think it is ernel," added Lanaway, as 'twerej' answered, Dunbar, slowly,,and with- rout changing his fixed and statue'like posture. hat is yur opinion?" inquired Devron, While the latter was speaking, another party " turning tothe tall man with the long rifle, who, was approaching, toward whom all eyes were stood wthout moving a limb, or giving any evi- directed; tAnd indeed his figure and bearing were dence that he had heard a word of the last few not likely tp escape notice even from-less curir' remarks that had been made. . ous observers than the inhabitants of Wyoming. "Yes what do you think of it ?" added Quite commanding in height, straight as an ar- another. row, with a firm and fearless stepsassured yet The person addressed was silent for a moment, devoid of swagger, dark and somewhat-swarthy and then fixing his abr gray eyes on Lanaway complexion, hairblack andcrling, eyes fall and and Wintermoot, 'replied : quick in' their movements, all his :personal peen- "We haven't no time to lose in idle talk-- liarities seemed to denote a marked and uncom not a single hour-for Butler will soon fall, on .mon character, 10 a le advanced, nodding in a friendly manner to the dreamy beauty of the valley, that neither few words with Dunbar, which were not spoken near and finally stood within thfw acesrof sufficiently loud to be heard by others, the two them.n a -few paces of walked away together, leaving-themen of Forty " You may feast your eyes on it, white men Fot gngn cotepa them withecurioity; bt eit belong bto the Lenni Lenape," he said, but no one contemplated them with such an bitterly.' Dunbar and Montour turned sapdy equivocal expression as Lanaway, whose fea- toward the speaker nstintou grned sharply tures took on an expression that at that moment rifles more er, tinctivey grasping their might have been deemed gloomy and foreboding more firmly as they did so. and the next defiant and vindictive. ' "Yes, Castanego is here. Do you envyh m "It's my opinion those persons ought to be a single look atelans hato one lngedto watched," said the individual we have called the Lenapes t the lands that once belonged to Wintermoot, glancing furtively at his neighbors. scornfullyp. he asked, his red lip curng No one made a response but Lanaway, and he "No, them paint my feeling's, redskin; Ilon't .fully concurred with Wintermoot. Leaving the hold no haress agia the feelresin ot men of Forty Fort to discuss whatever subject Lenni'Lenapes, as you. call 'em. You can othe they may consider most worthy of their atten- at this bit of ground as much as You can look tion, we will attend the footsteps of Dunbar and welcome, and I for one will make you like, and his companion. The two proceeded to the river, whatever, so lon as you don't i no objections but a few yards distant, and directed their way adtae to you a dn i up as 'tet" toward Lackawonock Gap-the opening in the returned Du r natural Ing ways, as 'Were," mountain ranges where the Susquehanna forces ". no e e its wy ino th valey."Why did not-the Lenapes keep this behuti- its way into the valley. ful valley.when they had possin ?fi " in- When they had gone a short distance they quired Montour.h possession of itd"ain- launched a canoe that had been concealed in the "auetealdntiswretogr bushes, and crossed over to a high cliff on the thane the Lenapes. aed nations werestronger eastern bank called "Prospect Rock," the sum- face " returned Cat agood reason,pale mit of which commanded a view of nearly the " Theretrne caanegove, rernly, whole valley. Climbing to the top of this emi- Montour. nence, hunbar and his comrade cast their eyes I I ce over the fair lands of Wyoming, the possession time and come back here a few moons after this of which had already cost so much contention keep their cabins fepae faces why they do not and bloodshed. The whole valley lay before tions, what wi from the hands of the Six Na- them like a glorious picture-with its gliding netheyay? inquired the. river, its meadows, its dead levels, its gentle That the Six Nations were too strong for sw 1s, and its eternal wall of surrounding moun- them," was the instant reply. ts hemming in all its variegated and lovely "And that will be true, for the war-path of the sceery main itmor lke faryEden than Iroquois tends this way," continued the Dela- a spot of common earth. ware.ay c . "It isn't strange in the least," said Dunbar, "Wha t hL sd e "that there has been so much wrangling about tour at will the Lenaes do rescued Mon- this valley, for you see, friend Montour, that it "What should they"do is as handsome a spot as the human eye can should they fbolishl meddle with this quael rest on." . .Who willgey them back th lans ifae te "Nature indeed discloses her most attractive shouldliht veWem back their lands if they features here ; and yet it is not worth the price the white men l No, not The possesions of paid for it, in blobd," replied the other. the'Delawares have slipped from pbsieneathth "So far as that is concerned, it' isn't paid for and they willreave recod fom beneath rioem, yet; for you may rely on't, it will cost a great inc"hey ner recover their former foot- deal more of that kind of payment, according to "Do you know anyhin the present appearance of things," returned ments of Colonel Butler ?' asked Montour. D much were they absorbed in contemplating"Go and inquire of the pale faces down in the valley,"rejoined Castanego ; and then with. ,- i, ,; -, - P .' °. , - _. x ' .,+j gg ,, v , ,r ' _r,. 1 .,,.... - i e i ! iRfwWNnlrv yrn %LxgC S:. . .Y6-%aa ,t6' ea _d .'F. . .c .r.o..s. '.t.. . r a. ,; , } ti. QSI. 1 11 I I page: 12-13[View Page 12-13] 12 THE ROYAL GREENS. , i F . ..; : : f, 1 4 Li . i Yy r" . Y J f '' i clouded brow and compressed lips moved from the spot, and was soon lost to view in the moun- tains.a "Re knows very well there's false-hearted ones at Wyoming," observed Dunbar. "I am not so much acquainted in the settle- ment as you are, but I fear that your suspicions are not unfounded," was Montour's answer. " Well, let us go up the river a few miles and see what's goin' on," continued the other. " I've been too much in the woods, and seen too-many of the ways of the red pien to be deceived by 'em; and as for Butler's Royal Greens they're worse than the savages, although they aint so common, perhaps, and can't follow a trail so well." Montour made no reply, and the two shoul- dered their rifles, descended the rock, and fol- lowed the general course of the Susquehanna. Having reached the spot which they had evi- dently been seeking-which was a solitary place in a thicket of birch-they kindled a fire and Waited the approach of night with obvious im- patience. As soon as the evening shadow' began to fall, the blazing fagots were extinguished, the brands scattered, and leaves carefully thrown over the spot where they had burned. Having examined their rifles to be assured that they were ready for distant use, Montour and Dunbar took a posi tion nearer the river, concealing themselves be- neath a dense cluster of wil4 grape vines' that grew among the rank alders on the bank. Thus hidden they remained motionless until the moon came up and the stars twinkled merrily. Th evening was far advanced when a slight sound reached the ears of Dunbar; it was the light regular dip of a paddle. Touching Montour upon the arm to attrac his attention, the hunter pointed up the river A canoe containing bitt a single figure was glid ing toward them. " It is a Mohawk," whispered the young man "Yes, and he must die," replied Dunbar calmly. "I see no help for it; if he lives, our plo fails," rejoined Montour. The hunter made no answer, and the birche bark drew near. When it was within rifle di tance, Dunbar took deliberate. aim and fire The Indian dropped the paddle, and Montou throwing off his hunting frock plunged into th stream andswam toward the canoe, which whe he had reached, he directed to the bank pushing it before him With his hand. Bythe time he had accomplished the task, the Mohawk, who had fallen forward upon his face, had revived and be- gan to make efforts to get upon his feet, but was too much exhausted from loss of blood to do so. Dunbar drew the little vessel from the water, and then directed his attention toward the wounded savage. The'- benignant rays of the moon streamed down upon the singular scene. The Mohawk laid in the canoe regarding his conquerors with stern composure. His eyes, though fast losing their lucidity, still gleamed with the dark vin- dictiveness of his race. Death could rob him of physical power and life, but could not change his nature. "Redskin, you have been betrayed," said Dunbar., The words of the backwoodsman caused the native to start and cast an inquiring glance at the speaker. " Betrayed !" he added, without changing his tone. "By whom ?" asked the sufferer, instinctively feeling for the handle of his knife. -"You came to meet Lanaway ." rejoined Dunbar, watching the countenance of the Mohawk. The latter was silent for a moment as if decid- ing how far he might honorably divulge his *purpose. " The pale faces were always traitors !" he exclaimed, with suppressed and husky voice. " You were a fool to trust to white men who e betray their own brethren.. Did you think they I would keep better faith with you than with us ?" continued Dunbar. " Pale faces, you are right ; he who is false to t his own people will be false to' others," replied the Indian, somewhat less sternly. - " Of course you are old enough to know bet. ter than to trust yourself with such hypocritical . renegades. Shame on you, redskin, to be caught , in the company of John Butler and his band of tory cut-throats ! A, man as will fight agin his t own country and countrymen will sell an Ingin for a pint of whiskey." n "Wa, wa! 'tis so ; for you could not have s- known what you have told, if Lanaway had not I. sold me. Pale Face, Butler and the Six Na- tr tions will soon come down the Susquehanna and e Wyoming will fall. Wintermoot, will surren- n der the fort which he has built, to the tories, and g then fight his neighbors like a hollow heart as THE ROYAL GREENS. he is. le and Lanaway have betrayed me,1an t I1 will betray them. PaeFcs ydmad tory' to their patriotism. Both Dun- do has called t ea, good Mone- tour, as has been remarked in another place, had - douns, c d e to tgo to the happy hunting- not long been residents in the pland had grounds, but I will tell you before I depart that lived in comparative obscurity, which haad had the birds of war are hovering over the valley. around them a kind of master tha, d thrown Yes, I was the messenger of Butler and the Six few gossiping anduncharitable ones, had been should be struck that will desol great ow terpreted in a manner not friendly to their e- shuld be stukta wl eoate Wyoming. putation.yt hi e g rButI have fallen by treachery, and my shout But our two friends cared but little for this shall be heard no more on the war-path." meddlgd wth for bthfe Where was you to meet Lanaway and Win- acquaina aw no one's business, made but few termoot to settle these matters ?" inquisitive sand no confidants, perplexing the "At the second bend below here ; I hope yow they had by prm to ome toenterhat will go and shoot them, for they are your foes," doubts respecting Lanaway and Winteroon reumed the Mohawk, articulating with dif- must be sufficiently obvious o the reader from Th atis reading the foregoing; od those doubts had The parties stood near the fallen warrior in been greatly strengthened by a conversation to silence, observing the rapid inroads of the great which they were accidentally a party with conqueror of men. The native's failing vision knowledge orcosnofh w h out the wandered wildly from Montour tohis companion e or consent of those whoseInt rim then he. chanted in a loweand' monotone o and ove of country that conversation m Butler was atwas evidently his death song, and shortly to meet one or both of them to arrange the de- after eprhed tebtails of sme imoat moemn, invlving thee Dunbar searched the body and found what he peace and security movement, evolving the expected to; a letter from John Butler, the certain s ad tutof Wyoming, they we foot- cruel leader of the Tory Rangers, which dis- of absolute deo put te matter upon the footing oosed a scheme of cool-blooded atrocity rarelywatchcreullmons ion hadresolved to equalled, even by those loyalists. most active in municationf the common medium of com ein ath executing plans owvneac.thi rdr t h-e valley--theSsuhna eing aus possession of vengeance. in orderto surprise and cut off the party corn- Beig tus n pssesio ofthesecetof the missioned to negotiate with those upicpe enemy's intended operationsagainst Wyoming, men who had n e ovew tose unprincipgh- Dunbar and Montour made their calculations bo ase y resolved to give their neih- accordingly, shocked and justly, at the efid rs the tomahawked and the knife. exhibited by Lanaway and Wintermoot, and perfectly correct, and their efurtspihad were many others who had hithrto .been unsuspected ectly scessfct, and theyafots d thed . fbigayhn -u tuc aros ce eminently isuccessful- How they avail ed Dunbar, the backwoodsman and hunter, selves of the intelligence which the death of the well as his younger associate, had on e as Mohawk had procured, will be duly unfoldedas wellous otheimtives youngrocithe hd pon beeus- we proceed. Who and what Montour and Dun picousof he otvesof he persons ablove bar were, it is ntorpeetproet i named ; but their feelings in relation to the sub- vuge for it is not our present purpose to d- ject they had been in some measure obliged to tue; to develop the esicue following ch keep almost wholly to themselves; for so adroit other teeti toe'rticulars.with and artful had been their management, that idthinteresting inatters. cm many of the good people of the valley would m-iding the canoe in the bushes and cith ,have been disposed to listen'to aught d g hitting the body of the native to the le t so gtderoga- thoughtful facsadso se wte aters, with g Kes an Blw stps hey eftthe po- 1K i H l f f it I :, ff rhi .. , ' V e ' i page: 14-15[View Page 14-15] 0 CiHA PThL -II. ts one of those snug, comfortable, and yet ter. And this will be the fittest place to remark romantic cabins for which the valley of Wyo- also that, Mrs. Devron having long since gone ring was so justly celebrated, seated at a small the way of all the earth, the only offspring of aid unpretending indowgazing with an ab- their union, Ellen, had for some years been sol acted and somewhatni elancholy expression mistress of her father's dwelling. straceansoehtue d nefrm Teapancofhrprt obviously gave through the clustering foliage that depended from The pearand of obviously vthe unexpected the humble roof (which was overnw y spreadadent of LanaWay was productive of pain. She riant before her, and sloping gracefully to the met his somewhat obsequious salutation with ivers bank, was a maiden of some seventeen distant politeness, and anxiously turning to her smmers ba t w as est with uncommon fatherdirected to him her conversationagerly beauty of person, it needed no second glance to asking what had been the result of their delib' determine; for the ruddy lips, the delicately erations at forty Fort. tinted cheeks, the finely formed forehead,the hI ant msorryato ra st precise "ys ae foun full and soullit eyes, the alabaster skin, the have left the matte husPrcelaswfon graceful neck, ,the swelling bust, and the whole it." c f h u e eloquently testified to the "What i have no decided steps been taken to contour of t g meet this crisis ?" she inquired, earnestly. affirmation."Nohnhabendnm chlndio She was aroused from her musing and reflec- "Nothing has been done, my child, and no tive attitude, by the sudden appearance of two particu course has been resolved on, m e individuals, who were casually spoken of in the ing dividedain their opinions; some satin e previous chapter--Devron and Lanaway; the thing and some another, although I believe o former, it will be remembered, being a man con- majority are fully impressedwith result will of asrably advanced in years. impending danger. What tureher falbe, 'IWaving all useless ceremony, it will perhaps Heaven only knows I" returned hen-father, be best to state at once, that the young lady sadly. a mentioned, and Mr. Devron, sustained the mu- "sIt appears to ne that you magnify the peril teal and interesting relation of father and daugh- grey "CYan you for a moment imagine that Wyo- attention of the profoundest and best minls. I suing is not menaced with destruction ?" Ellen doubt the soundness of your patriotism." asked, looking steadfastly at the young man. "tIn my zeal to maintain peaceful relations "It is possible," he replied, slowly; " that with those around us ahd with the crown, I shall there are those in the valley who have much to unquestionably be misconstrued, and subjected fear; but believe me when I say that the inmates to cruel suspicion; but a high sense of duty I of this cabin are safe. This sheltering roof will hope will sustain me, and ever prompt me to a never be given to the flames, and tomahawks course calculated to ensure the good of all par- will never be brandished over this threshold, ties. Such ideas as expressed by Miss Devron, with savage fury." will do very well in romances ; but in practical, "I confess that I cannot comprehend you," everyday life, they are, I imagine, quite out of rejoined Ellen. place," responded Lanaway. Then turning to "Accept my assurances, then, without com., her father, he added, in a serious tone, "I hope prehending them;.for I trust you are so fully a due consideration for your daughter's safety, convinced of my friendly feelings toward you, will prompt you to adopt -all precautionary that you cannot 4oubt my sincerity." measures that may be suggested by one who cer- "I crave no immunity fromthe general fate, tainly feels a. deep interest in your happiness." nor can I see by what interposition a single, "Ishall regard my own honor and Ellen's cabin can be he r from Indian rapacity and tory safety as.sacred trusts," rejoined Devron, firmly. cabiny canie ke s ro e Iino rapaitntry " I arm with you in this matter heart and hand, The strange hopes which you extend to this Mr. flevron; but as reasonable men, would it dwelling and its inmates, do not satisfy me; for not be well for us to pause and inquire what who can measure the baseness of that selfishness will be the consequences of our rebellion ? for re- which, in times like these, when all should feel bellion it unquestionably is to the mother coun- their mutual dependence, thinks only of self- try," returned the young man. preservation I Unworthy indeed should I be of "Mr. Lanaway, you are at liberty to pause Heaven's blessings, if all my desires and prayers and consider and retract; but as for me, I will should have reference only to my own personal live and die a- patriot, animated by a, love of comfort and safety, when there are so many fai- country which no sophistry; no danger, no suffer- flies exposed to the shafts of danger, while those ing, can shake, conquer or undermine. The die strong and willing hands that would naturally is cast; I shall throw all my sympathies, all my protect them, are away fighting battles for other efforts, and if need be all my means, .into the settlements and other homes. Such, sir, are the holy and glorious cause of freedom; anji would feelings that animate me ; and it were better, pain me much to see you deserting ;ur standard methinks, to fall a victim to the remorseless and taking part with those bloody and unnatu- hatchet, than to outlive the common sympathies ral ruffians who are devastating the fairest coun= of humanity,'" resumed Ellen, with increasing try that the light of heaven blesses, and turning warmth, their ruthless weapons to the hearts of their " Bravely spoken, my girl" exclaimedDev- friends andneighbors. I hope for the sake of ron, _ ~~~~~~~~~the friendship which you profess to feel for my aaa .cledbihi, i, adfram duheefotadadfrsrvtoeie'yuwlsproraktonetog rn ws-daught and for me,r ou will make one wrong, 'ent was considerably embarrassed, hesitancy on this. all-important point. . Liberty I regret," he, added, speaking less confi- is man's prerogative, and it would grieve me dently, that our whig friends are so energetic truly, that a friend of mine should prove in any in their opposition. to the home government. manner recreant to his trust, or false to.duty and They, that-is, we, should be'very cautious about to God." irritating the feelings of-the loyalists; in fact, Mr. evron spoke with much energy, and it more.policy should be exhibited." was easy to see that his professions were without "-The time for the kind of policy you'refer to, hypocrisy; ' ncerity and integrity breathed is past; and the policy which this crisis de- forth with e ord that left his lips. mands-is that backed up by powder and .bail; Lanaway d his temples as if he felt a no other will do, and I am sorry to see you dis. sudden pain there, and was striving to assuage play so little enthusiasm on a subject worthy the it. He did not look up 'and meet the earnest THlE EYAL GRRt1S. l 1b M t4 r 9 .r ,° l . , r 4 K 3tti' v j' 1 ' . _ , L. 41 x t". M t page: 16-17[View Page 16-17] , .# .s L GREENS. 16 THE ROYA eyes of Devron or the searching gaze of Ellen. Waves of agitating thought appeared to sweep rapidly across the troubled waters of his mind and disturb painfully its quietude. His- usually impassive features changed 'color, alternately from a deep flush to a livid paleness. Mr. Dev- ron did not seem to be sensible of the perturba- tion of his neighbor; but Ellen, more watchful, had noted the, evidences of the internal struggle, and drew her own inferences from the same. "1I dare say you are correct," said Lanaway, at length.' "When the time that' will test our principles arrives (as it will shortly), I trust I shall be found on the right side, doing my duty like a brave man." Although he attempted to say these words with his usual reckless air, his voice more than once faltered, and that life-giving energy which should have marked and lent force to them, was wholly wanting. Raising his eyes, he met those of Ellen fixed upon him with an earnestness which he could not brook with that calmness of demeanor which he wished to exhibit in her presence ; so taking asomewhat hurried leave he left the cabin. His departure was followed by a long and constrained silence between the father and daugh- ter. Both gave indications of dissatisfaction and uneasiness ; Ellen was the first to speak. "Father," she said, laying her hand upon his arm, " did it ever occur to you that Mr. Lanaway is not a true friend to the cause which you have so nobly and fearlessly espoused ?" " It is not best to entertain such suspicions, child," he replied, evasively, as it appeared to the fair questioner. "But his manner-did you not observe it?" " No, no I I saw nothing. Don't cherish such unkindly thoughts, Ellen; you do him injus- tice." " What portend his vague hints about secur- ing otur safety? What means has he of doing what you cannot just as well accomplish? If he has power which you have not, where did he get it ? Why this mystery?" she continued, with increasing earnestness. " Would you distrust your lover, Ellen?" ask- ed her father, somewhat sternly. "I care not that he should be laver of mine," was the firm reply. "Be cautious, my daughter-=d not ,sacrifice your maiden feelings too much to patriotism," rejoined Devron, smiling. "Little affection have I for James Lanaway," resumed Ellen. " Strange that youthful damsels will never frankly. confess the tenderness of their truant thoughts ; but so it has ever been from the first female to the last," was the bantering rejoinder. Miss Devron reiterated her assurances, but they apparently had no convincing force over the mind of her parent, and for the time the sub- ject was dropped. On the second evening after tlhis interview, the fears of the settlers were still more excited by an incident which will now be briefly related.; Mr. Devron and Ellen were seated in the com- fortable little room where' we have just left them, when Cato, the colored servant, came run- ning in, crying in a disturbed voice : " Massa Devron, dars troubil down below, sartin I" Both father and daughter followed him into the open air, to discover the object of his fears. " Which way, Cato ?" asked Ellen. "Right dar ; don't yer see de fire " Miss Devron-glanced in the direction named and perceived a fierce jet of flame bursting through the roof of a cabin on the opposite side of the river. "De Ingins hab come, Missy Ellen, and-dat's de game dey's at," added Cato. " True, too true, Cato I" exclaimed Miss Devron.. "Worse than savages, perhaps !" said Devron. " Tories ?" asked Ellen. "Very probable; but we shall learn soon enough, no doubt," was the mournful response. " Jes let 'em come ober de riber, dat's all I" cried Cato, waxing valorous. " Heaven forbid, Cato !" rejoined Ellen. " What should we do ?" " Do, Missy Ellen? I bring out my doubil- barril gun and fight for dis here woolly skulp, and for your shiny locks, too," said Cato. During this time not a single shot had been heard, or other sound indicating that the marau- ders were meeting with any resistance. "I cannot account for this," said Mr. Dev- ron, " unless that it is the cabin vacated by the hunter, Dunbar, and that strange young man, who is sometimes seen with him, but of whom no one knows anything in particular. .But why the fire has not been seen from the fort is sur- prising." "I tink I can splanify dat. You see dare a sort ob kick-up at de fort on todder side, and TEE ROYAL GREENS. - -y 4r yr 3. Yi4 Sr$ , 14 All- ONE . 7f yj N z k £+ - . ;Ts r 1 ; 4 R tkyry'' . ' 1 8 ,' +! ri! ' + y. , F . * r ' i F X k + F. a_ , " z r 6 r F ,: r, f iy i. r: .' [ . , T1 - , w. , . U 17- most ob de fellas and gals am dar a shaking de white Mohawks !" exclaimed Cato, blazing rebellious foot; dem's de reason," returned at the approaching loyalists, and wounding away Cato. lylss n onigto "At Fort Wintermoot of them. This exasperated them greatly, and "Yeah; dat's de truff." one of them cried out: "An unfortunate time indeed for hilaritLet the gal go, old man! ilet the gal go or merry-making," cotimned oro "ay and we'l fire as you are, and we don't care aout mymakin continued Devron, "when a killin' such as her !" murky cloud of destruction hangs over our fair " Leave me, child! leave me !" exclaimed vlley" WDevron, in an agony of solicitude' for the safety "What kind, ob cloud am dat you spoke of ?" of his lovely daugtrannoasilefrfr "Listen ! do you not hear something ? hisely ghter, and not a single fear fo Ellen, in a suppressed voice. The parties stood "Never, father, never ! I will perish with you peetly otinlin thathto catch tany sound let them fire if they will. I will not stir, nor re- however trifling, that might indicate -the approach lease you from m mrc. of an enemy. aprah aeyoufrm my embrace." of"an Teem , Discharging his rifle once more, the brave man "There, Cato, did you hear that ?" added drew apso rmh~sdadtrwn n Ellen.- ddd re a pistol from his side, and. throwing one E"en daarm about Ellen, prepared to sell his life dearly. "I did, and dat am sartin fack ! By de Lord Lienfradhass-teoisruedpn massy, I b'lieve dey's coming , sure nuff." Lir puriated beasts the tories rushed upon "Be quiet, Cato I Now I think I can hear bolirprey; but the faithful Cato threw himself sounds resembling the. cautious approach of seltdiln between them and Mr. Devron, and pre- armed men," added Devron,. sntg his gun once more, shouted to ..them to - ard W t cadded don. k h d "Stan' back, dar--keep off, or by -dar Lord "What can he done? asked his daughter. I'l blow yer to dew debbil's cook-shop:" " Is there no place of retreat where our lives, at "Tmhw teblcsoudl"crdte least, will be safe ?" - " " Tomahawk the black scoundrel cried the " We will do what we can. Cato, bring out leader. " Off with his woolly scalp " our arms, and see that you make no noise. WeC Take dat, y white nigger !" responded will all go down'to Mr. Hudson's, whose cabin the o, shooting down the person who had fnade is better calculated for-a defence, and we mai h offensive proposition ; and then firing the find one or two stout hands there to aid us may other barrel at the individual who had the teme- findhoe back tostaty hd thee ordr ai" rity'to advance for the purpose of carrying the The black instantly obeyed these orders, and ordrit xcto. Bt i arl o fastening the door, the parties moved quickly to- being emptyheution. Both his barrels now ward the dwelling of their nei-gbeog.epty, he snatched the tomahawk'fo wathe ten gf the ir neighbor. But this the grasp of the person who had received his step hastened the catastrophe which they wished last charge, flourished it over his head, and dare to avoid ; for they had proceeded but a fewros'hsasinttocmitvehshadaddrd Whena smll prty f ared rods, his assailants to coine on. when a small party of armed men appeared in "Give 'em no quarter! shoot 'em all down sight. Discovery was of course inevitable and never mind the gal; she's no better than th immediate. Determined not to be taken by rest. Load up, every one, and fire when I give these miscreants, Devron 'and Cato stopped and the wor! presented their pieces, hopn oppad theword" check long enough for Eehoping to hold the n in- Ellen had given up all hope and expected butethisosheewougd no Elln to reach the cabin; instant death ; and her father still resolved, pre- but this she would not attempt to dp, but clung scented his cocked pistol at the nearest ot' to her father, preferring, she said, to share his assailants. fate, rather than secure safety at the costhof his Ataats. life. While the parties thus stood confronting At that moment of awful suspense, when the the enemy (who were loyalists disguised ing hear of Devron was suffering more than the, ous ways), several of them discharged then varn- pains of death for the fate of his child, the sharp, and the bullets hissed aroundtheperson hErguns, quick report of two rifles, from another quarter, perforating her dress in several places but Een, reached his ears, while two of the loyalists fell, erforatig her deneeral w e h eth- and a third received a dangerous wound. De- er she nor her defenders were wounded. termie noDoh obdo tervcis hee "Double shame upon you to fire upon a wo-ofhe tried not to be robbed of their victims, three man !" cried Devron, returning the fire with his them received s now rushed upon Devron. One of rifle. .9 stemrcie the contents of his pistol, and " Dar'll be troublamonganother grasped Ellen by the arm and tore her "Da'llbe rouil mog yer 'fore soon yer from her father ; hut his rude and pitiless hand ' ., s ,,: ,, A- page: 18-19[View Page 18-19] wV 1 V 1_-;6 k' G t ft ' . w s t k r i had scarcely touched her, when he was hurled to the ground by a blow. "Deluded and inhuman men! will ye murder, young maidens, and have go ;pity for a father with gray hairs I" cried he, who had thus sud- denly come to the rescue. "Back, back, ye unmannerly hounds I" cried another voice, and the tall form of Dunbar, the hunter, was seenlooking through-the sights of his long rifle. The young man who had sprang to the relief of Ellen, caught her in his arms, and bore her swiftlytoward Hudson's cabin, while the loyal- ists, not knowing how many new enemies might be at hand, retreated. 'Follow Montour," said Dunbar to Devron and Cato ; "follow him to the cabin as fast as you can, and I'll be there as soon as you." Without waiting a second bidding, they obey- ed, and in a few minutes the parties were safely at Hudson's. Great was. the revulsion of feeling that took place in the bosom of Ellen Devron. In a par. tially unconscious state she was borne within the friendly walls of the: cabin. Her 'first - inquiry was for her father, when, she Ws assured by her preserler that he was close at hand.. She ven- tred toexamine the features of Montour mote closely, and then emembered that he was the same whom she had seen with Dunbar on many occasions, but with whom she-had neverexehang ' d a word. The discovery did not sceem..i disagreeable one, for her delivererhad a manl3 beauty of face and form, not to be slighted b3 even bashful dansels or coy maidens.. She at tempted, to speak,some fitting words of thanks but though her voice failed, her embarrtssmen spoke more eloquently to Montour than all sh could have said. Her modest confusion wa relieved by the entrance of her father and Cato followed by Dunbar. 'f Sad times .these," said' Mr, Hudson, wh entered the dwelling at the same moment, a companied by a young man whose name ha once before been mentioned-Edward Gaston. Sad-indeed I" returned Devron. "But y Ought not to complain," he{added, glancing at Ellen, "when a life so precious has been spared to me." " You are right welcome to the shelter of my roof," Mr. Hudson rejoined, "and if attacked, we will mutually do our best to baffle the designs of our insatiable enemies. Ah, here is DunbarI I am glad to see you, sir, and your friend also ; for the very fact of his being with you, vouches for his integrity. Neighbors, make yourselves at home under myhumble roof, and, if, after we have done our duty like true men, the worst comes of it, we will share one common fate, re- signing ourselves as much as is in poor human nature, to the will of God." At that instant an exclamation from Dunbar attracted the attention of the parties. Devron, looking from the window in-the direction of his cabin, saw a few puffs of smoke arising from the roof, speedily followed by a flickering lisrmae which rapidly-increased in strength and bril- liancy until it east a red glare upon the sur. rounding scenery. Ellen sighed, and tears moistened her cheeks, when she perceived the home of her childhood crumbling to ashes and melting from her sight. "Our cabin is large enough to shelter you," said Elvira Hudson, -taking Ellen" by the Jaind in akindly manner. " When peace once more visits the valley, it will be an'easy matter for our - good neighbors to erect another dwelling, and I a am sute it will give them pleasure to do so." y " No doubt, my friend, no doubt; but many a, y dark night of danger will .pass before-the dayof L peace dawns upon us," replied Miss:Devron. , " When that time comes, there'll be manydas t is alive and well now, wont need no airthly e homes," said Dunbar, solemnly. as Expectingfarther molestation, Hudson and his. , friends (like many others) kept ,anxious vigils during that long night, but no attack wasnhude. o In the morning no traces of the tories could be e- found, save in the blackened ruins of the-two s cabins, and spots of blood where the conflict'had taken place; the bodies of the'slain'having been et removed. + - SS' 4. Y t ( s , s - j iSf ! ^ iY , 1 t "9F .. ~ . y., x.A THE ROYAL GREENS; CHAPTER Z1I. r " R Tan asseg , O the following 'morning Mr. Detron and in another form. Think you we shall-eldi. ing runStoo thing mournfully at the sinoulder- posed to rely on your power to protect us, sand eeduecteir once pleasant ho'nie. A thou- again "y sad withei os of an agreeable kind connect- u i passed through the mind-of the latter, Mr. ae too hard on the young man,i$ p resng misforlumore sensibly the extent of her "pI have heard that you h prsn msotne. It g.as to tone like her a was alms mialou cotiad anaewhic. painful thought, also, that men :professing the moser mindeo ed aeway, game peaceful religion, =and wo-shipping the btye wer y indeed in a position of great pril same Creative Power, should so far forget the Teyf God we have been spared," ce taminon bond of brotherhood, and cast side so fevron replied. completely all the r impulses which "a .Believe me," a kd gung man, turning f talked eeing. While mndulgingin feelings to Ellen, and speakingtn lower tone,," if I ings hastily pndn, she heard soinie one approach. could have averted tha dager through which turning she beheld Lanaway: you have passed, I would gladly have doe so Hisicountenance was exceedingly pale, and he at the hazard of my life." h d u agitation of raner. " Unquestionably," was the cold "You see your bower to protect as I" said "It pains me much to be treated with cold. in her te kn something of sara n tess and distrust by one in whom Cofeesso deep an.interest. In what way can I make ThiIs was a danger truly unlocked for-,And sensible of my undying attachment t he asked, widh Ireased. prepared to expect, he hr min an unsteady voice. i tenied. cn o "The attachment of which you speak, I have hen you can onlytnuard-astagainst dangers never sought or desired; consequently you i mea" c young lady. be spared the trouble of bring the proof re- "that this ,se rsute Lanaway, stanuer', erred to," was the dignified reply. not Anthis onst banof teloyalists was so thing "Yo.odfather hasJustly said that you are har o hat is merely repeating what pon.me," said-LaRnaway, g yeu have said "Small necessity is there that interviews ef 0 ' page: 20-21[View Page 20-21] 20 THE ROYAL GREENS. this nature should be repeated.tI think my sen- "Now you indeed stoop to threaten! James timents are quite well known to you." Lanaway,. is this your manliness . Fortunate "iYou see what dangers surround you, Miss am I that I have not been deceived by your pro- vonu ad t truth that you need a protector fessions. I perceive that you now cast off the must be sufficiently obvious without any argu- mantle of hypocrisy, and scorn to use glozing m ts of mfi e,"ntly ume obv hou wl ov , aw ords. I w ish you no evil-only better princi- ments of mine," resumed the lover. ples and sounder patriotism." " That I need a protector certainly requires p"Do not forget the awful tempest of fire that no argument, Mr. Lanaway ; and the same may o not fon Wfng and o muh be said justly of all the maidens, wives and moth- will soon rain upon Wyoming, and how much ers in Wyoming. So far as I am concerned, I the gray hairs of your father will need a pro- needed a protector last night," was the ironical testing hand." reoider. "A few drops of the shower fell last night," "And had one, I understand; but we will not added Ellen, pointing to the ruins of the cabin. dwllund hoe, unortanciRdents of last " That is nothing to the general doom--all night. I wish to entreat you to give me the Wyoming will be bathed in fire " he exclaimed. right to protect you," continued Lanaway, "tHeaven's will be done! and if you are a earnestly. party to the dreadful visitation of which you "I know well what you mean, but I can give prophesy so confidently, your baseness surpasses you no more legal power to protect me than any the power of human language ! Before God, other young man in the valley. This is my an- sir, I should rather be devoured by thedterrible sewer; so let us understand each other and part element you speak of, than survive and be like friends." you, if your dark and horrible insinuations afford "May I ask the, reason of this unqualified any iitdex to your designs."' rejection n"o u f For an instant Lanaway gazed at Miss Dev- " If you make such an inquiry, I am not ron with a sinister smile upon his lips, and then obliged to answer it, and there is little need of slowly turning from the spot walked away, proposing the question." leaving her bewildered with astonishment. "Still I would like to know," resumed Lana- " What is the matter, my child ?" asked her way, striving to conceal his agitation. father, approaching her, and noticing the pale- "If I must speak on a subject so embarrass- ness of her cheeks. "A lover's quarrel, I dare ing, I would say that I should desire in the kind say. Do not be proud, my girl-speak but a of protector which you alluded to, a man of ster- word, and I will call him back." ling principles, who is devotedly attached to the "Not for the world, father !" exclaimed .. land that gave him birth," answered Ellen, Ellen, somewhat proudly. " Why, how is this ! A serious quarrel, I " I think the time will come when you will verily believe." regret this unkindness," said Lanaway, biting "Father, you misapprehend me entirely inrim his lips, and folding his arms sullenly upon his nation to James Lanaway. I feel onlyor hi chest, suspicion, fear, and dislike, and not one of those " Perhaps you had better try threats," added gentler emotions which you have for a long time Ellen, with a smile. ascribed to me. I sincerely believe him to b E n j o y y o u r p we l ~ i m o s t b a s e a n d d a n g e r o u s m a n . " Enjoy your power while you have it, Miss "Ellen, you amaze me beyond measure! I "Idid not mean to offend," rejoined Ellen, in had cherished the thought that-th-I"know a more kindly voice. "Then banish such thoughts forever; "Enjoy your power, I repeat, but remember what you would say." him so harshly ?" he there will be terrible changes here soon, This "Why do you judge valley will resound with savageyells, and the demanded, with asperity. hatchet will receive a dreadful baptism of " The man who does not love his country, it blood." sees to me, is not worthy of the love of The young man spoke these words with com- woman." pressed lips, and fixed a menacing glance upon " But what reason have you to suppose that Ellen. h does not ? =i4 },1 9n A" 3t 'Y rr r" x sE, rt i s f THE RiAL s hae svedbhi g, and his conduct of Allen had tnaen without its eceeipo essue~ e that he Is indeed A loyalist, plotting him-so bo e en the ogan gaats the dest&ctina of Wyoming." --sopia the yeeYoeng ane gllaII d" "Heavens, Ellen! this is indeed a terrible graeth intce ofifmine lovelinese- 'accsa~ine mee h igi enyonhisshoulde'r he "And time Wc pove its truth." ehanicilly trodain tie steps of Dunbar. "And sooner wirl aps, th . practice in woods aft had " ade i habitL njeiedsoice+ed Dunbajoined t ware uticus hen tlhring the lonely places of rjeine 'areiu.gnet Mr.Laawa te ildernss, and his moccasoned eet pressed dWat maydslins al Mtraniawyitor the ohsinds a noiseless elasticity not possi- is a mae s a trs, oieighboble to the.mere tyro in the ways of the becks. Devron;ht laced theofwallooktnmttes, anaway woodsmtanI. i a estof al me h had."that Having traversed the ruggedgnf "Itmaybbe to a it t considerable time, they seated themselves on a "Itmaybe bu alowig}it oe, Ishelving rc, to rest. o have been very blind Letsbeg wrock, t s fred Dunbar even in these dark timea And and raisinghis rife thd, and Moneeur saw the flwhile tikoialomet nturewobark $flyosm a tree at some ditance fothe tn young man is whom I have seen with you "To a ;tree..I have iisdhim".addedrthe . myedeara osicons, and, who so bravely bore huate, Both of them span ti" covert Ithe mygdearl fronathe scene .of danger =lastiestait.sping to a covert an Iht4 " "Be ca'et dof, your ka~Mnnr~epi am net a person given to tellin' bong Gtofyu p os a tur ke i stories, neighbor Devron, especially nab outougmthan a nh ifeenyoiu pse ar one it'ncontinue as don't appear to be over and above cosn Dunhamn.epece,yoUAre.gonet" cont cative in regard to themselves. I can only3 sa «Yn mesn.~j ido afr that Roland i:ontour is a brave - s netIewntderstand--hilkindmbehohhavenben of trarfare let him be who he -ny, or what he lmay.r nonthew th and har bee on the trail know this 4n't verydeugrite; but it's abnut all I than ie pahand heard bullets Whistle ae know myself. You see a nateral friendsltip;had as spea ng aaballmn.ce ,' t While he sprung up atweenasas 'tIer, and:that's athekco gd bll glanced thy thetree that reason why we're sees.;soinue together -Ishis hupin g f e hi pto te exoed awarethat certain peoplehave circulated reports altg ihich happened.to be sed not very favorable to him or me either'so faras :orvrtpie g e that goes, ib iwhen youi d a better na thtan fe dtiozglurine hihparties renaineder. ontour,, I should' like tosse. him replied n we lodgering which timeefi number Dunbar.e-lodgod in the friendly xhar heroine and her father raturnedto gate protecon. -There was one c.id ron's,otne ae sthaterved to strengthen the hope of prHudson's,-- then s ewuorje is aiaiQ hoghn a de~cape;iWhichMwas, that they4 cou ld not vr rplexit If' Ellen drew o mP etweenawell be surrounded, as P okno m ouutsiAv r pa SLateand rai,, at dtheeformera ed itn wa;ethl er aurltie h icm it a; asek of exceeding dfiuy oacn di~~s a 0n, dbeate randif the bravery itss 1 ed eiute of vegetand er a sfya= ? ~t i . °'" othe latter wonmer ~riaie i ie~sr ~stteaw~tt~~a "eeamdM ad ,handsoe Faares se'r.vs obly0.h- or, } tmy."anI_ Fmg-am .wih rstr y Itaks t nole,I out,;b 9en ''e.go. s!tQp, who, seek . nylifei to witness and record thero aer Aty Am I'ever to be huntd like a beast of low w eoland o r d ohe ents fo- and fplloW dto the death by these hounds lo oadMontourm and his.-friend Dunbar. venge.tencehun"sof toward one of the narrow-deflen ar e geen!, °wararo °deles mthe ieenxta "Th" ranges, where for some. reason thy:_e" uc youngster, is inende - their footsteps afewboars later h ortmeeAs for ou, fancy" saidthe- antnsfe reu u rwouldeendorseerouropini e thnIt as woi _t. wear -n ordinaryo nceuis. hat, had!not-manycogen esn oaem ~ tie beutythin oeise. I believe that I amt nore, pat- 2F I. I fi , ,' i page: 22-23[View Page 22-23] 22 ll4LGW0 ticularly -the object of this demonatration,'the, laic e fbe aware of; for I have notfor ynay }q poed the cosson .irnmtuaity from danger t ate nest TOhW, sps evresu Io psren ois times. ?erhepu It would be well to tell y.eaW *lwee aspesing of the gib ecth t ,aa * kind"of fetedSnan--spark. gd fer.eatI byqa secet foe who (lplows ae in rllplaes and 'glres me little rat. When phangs ay gheality, fancying that, shell iude his vengeance; Iam soon undeceivemd' the music oa bullet, the{trapg ofa t stig or the Slash of stegl, assures me t i 9K still dogged. -".}*udnet be; sag pish to me iftaetron for 0entiotna ppxith-s apt ito pasidbeeqtde0 idga, 4'tW0reandstRake p- iI e k seiaUikind of g -w tha, t have no inatundatioi in truth than the promise.of the king, andthe3 glit ae-mupnscelebestedsfer4lltd gea thow n ji herm is fing husinsastSee ttiespliuner fy! r'longdo The ytaminta-eppasaeu l stay contented behind these trees! Keep;-per feetlstilt, a& 1t trys old plen of inn whiha anweed a:goad pur emoremno H FDunbareTrted to aeestledto da the eethys fre, tlethat haerved ° at object o ~e'tei'I o eas. 1*hing off t'te ptlade It -ae end'olftheyrlie r'fhlffiffie. " Now," said he; to Montot r, "be reiyf ~' e ha h atie to dede a cbhitdi!r Ms k'l ', ta as the 'seOIthis h er Cap, hei'l thin myr~ti tthdbe esmt t trioddle Iti 'ba r crl's/' -hca 'Oe Mt4a~aoutftt heii&ei taia~s' eapre , 5' t * rshad' brou 'ht af eip r a fatd fire he niiyell r gel 1it- ' rbWld ethat lehad trot mi ste bsait and the sister also taking aitvantage of'the co - fusion which 'the unexpected event produced, pointed his deadly barrel with its wensue accua racyand efect, "It strikes me," he said, cofly, as with almost incredible:epeItass he forced another tlet -into tho eIongsdark be'that the nateral proadctsof thes.wile ought tobe acquainted with the sespd ofthioilete eheotl'ipreeof Aine. It has.apoke-to the rd critters agr at dumber o' times and never tah withoutt meania' -Vime' thi'.: 11m, putty artan I'vebeeu.ing mis' chief, and I fancy judgin' bythnsegedwhich I heerd, when yon give 'em year bmlue111i;that . you' nied-the phrysisa1emtertionofl;otene'on 'en, wig t h bt., 'shave:thought "f another atteger, re' plied'Relane,"mnd filitry is, n 'ihe oy'duinatook off"iiS cap/bst instead y f Iplidhgit pon his driver, 6s his friend had . done, planed it to the tree with his knife,'at a s distance fromn he ground correspondingwish his I a'height, dand In'such a manner, That the d slightet breth of Wind *old casse 1ibgrate e to and-ft; VN deoblg ht':he1 ob ~tis asthe ftiter : 14o Neod his -eainpe , #and then ' boths threi t h&nsIes pon the g tnd Theor-iseorked di vell';wh-thedc P5sWUras tgone sidein sight d of the atehf l feet,they ; a*O Sint fired at. Nwlet cus reep#'' ssidD ,n a to low irolce4 "If we can *t reeq htle rift i the Track 'end us, we are sale. het theta amuse . emnae es e ethh ca ' Abe arefulae that ya rid keneexactlyiliae ,range p of the trees." t The p artiesrwlthrato" of time ompneuped thdi hdieitandnemusecieve ent, e.n tu tr enemi e n iuts sedth rft 't, , , poundher n ieants, o.t eotdthem in the paees the o had soIos cu d, th 'ie~ along :the rocky. on channel 'ito a it vine at 3the zpountaink'a bie, atand herupased; lto thewide forest, 1easuin# 6 their red cenmies in igno ueof their escep# 1: CJAPTRR, IY. eASiDO O .TEROYAL-ounnus. ROLAND MONTOUIn and the scout now quick- ed on ened their pace, rightly deeming it prudent to hon they nee.A the epiratien of ythe increase the distance between them and their scoutt reached the retreatespkenof y ph enemies as'much and as speedily .as possible. duced in wasn opening so thefcd roepro-r. Qecasionally they heard a shot. in the distance nature),wiched to a subeterrieanvulsin weh assured them that the trick had not been side of thremota sngar sput e discovered: been accidentally discovered byusb whl "I know a place of -safety I think, if we can enig, Itwy socrduby s Whil y yeach ft,' aid the-bater. ' ca 7 e4soulOS only ec t"si h utr "At the ,foot of fissure being. obsgrvab le onlywhen yo ne ar s: i th the highest of the mountains yonder--there' is-a stooingpsrcanthnfo oePrur cutloas hiding-place). which I-have passed many pl e of limited d thcumferce oneth p t lrs a nighrin fat and last, and known, believe, to littlelik e lihooed cfitsuersence--thatnow- t nobody on airth but me.- You -see, :ityfriend; others. f tence-ng known travelled these forests a great deal within the past three years,:and have been ind.4aner They passed-the night there without-moest more than.once, if the truth plaaen but I lion, and were -on-the-pointof leaning the place aint the person as:loves ,to boait ahout sick n the morning, when they were detert'ed by things, and conaequatly but few people -now seeing a small party of persosi gren-u teupsand d n e epeneed i e f ,pag n ytheospot-at aidistance ofa han- especially with the v Armwis of the $uix died yard As for: the Delawares:tj n A he elawaresrthey are: aele enog "There's some of Butler's Royal .Green, as in when etonefor they do ero ca abontfht. true as I'm alive !" whispered Dunb'r. lag when there's no chance, of Thg Rlndpoturs uckeyebdarea, se Iroquoais-have cowed -them udwer e h co o d optour 's lek ee d #ready ,is Irouo e o s taken the covered the approaching party, and was.scanning sirit outrof .'em, so: far.:as :snaki ig$-ar"onthe :them closely. R ~civta e twen-to Whites- is: eonsarmed. a ea~ntefmgoey perceived .that .between :two antests'theontainiotersItweassayin', if.we, of the .stoutest of them, walked a prisoner-whos a et theo-the o t oertisr,We shatl-be arms were pinioned, and he 'instantly s edhe heontour nhenae. ketoeaudr a - attention of the scout tothe fact. onu- lasten- "Lookagin, pd see if you can mk - /y page: 24-25[View Page 24-25] THE ROYAL GREENS. 24 THE ROYA more nor one in that sad predicament," he returned. "As they advance, I think I can see another captive, and I reallybelieve it is a black," added Roland. - "Jest look sharp and see if you know 'em." "Devron and the faithful Cato I" exclaimed the young mai. ' "That's truer than I wish it was, Montour," rejoined Dunbar, mournfully. " The fatal apathy of the people of Wyoming makes my blood boil with indignation. They, take nomeasures to secure their gafety,'and seem to invite the vengeance of the Iroquois and the Royal Greens 1" said Roland, in a low voice. "Ah, yes! them's been my feelin's for many a long day, and if we fail to enlist the Delawares in our favor, we can do but little to savb ,he valley." "W e an at least warn them of the treachery of Lanaway and Wintermoot," resumed Roland., " We can, but they're so awfully infatuated, as 'twere, by the artifices of the-loyaliss, that, it's ten to one if the greater part on 'em wouldn't disbelieve it entirely, and give us the cold shoul- det for our pains: See ! what a fair chance for a shot-eight of'em in all." -We must do something for the rescue of the prisoners, Dunbar. You know what tory mercy is;,and my'conscience will reproach ree if I do not make an effort in behalf of those brave men," replied Roland. "I'm willing' to try, though the odds are agi us ; but in sich a case I'm never backward, for it's uly natur, as I may say, to be doing' sunthin! in that-way.", The parties'moved on and when opposite the place where our friends were so securely shelter- ed, made a halt. It was obvious that they had had a weary ,night's work of it, and were glad to rest.,They sat down upon the ground and held a hurried consultation. " Well, sergeant, whatedo youthink the chances are of getting off, out of their reach I" asked one of them. " That depends altogether upon carcum- stances. If some men as I knew were there, we should have been overhauled afore this time," was the reply. - "That's SergeantNorton-a dyed inthe wool tory I used to know him well," whispered the scout to Roland. " Who might them ' be ?" continued the questioner. -- L GREENS. "Dunbar, the scout is one-a parseverin', sharp-eyed, dangerous chap as goes everywhere, and turns up allers when he aint wanted," added the sergeant. " There's a compliment for you," said Roland, touching the hunter upon his arm. "Listen, and you'll hear more of 'em pretty likely," was the response. "Dunbar," repeated the first speaker, mu- singly, "it appears to me that I've cheered of him. Doesn't he shoot a rifle beyond all account?" S"He'll bring down a feller as fur as he can see him. Jest give him a glimpse of a red-coat, or a red face; and it don't matter a farthing's worth about the distance-his long rifle cracks, and it's all over." "Don't be a talkin' in that way, Sergeant Norton, for I declare you make me feel nervous," rejoined the other. "T he last chap as spoke is a corporal. He once lived down at the lower end of the valley near Naticoke," said Dunbar to his friend. "If that's the man you fear the i most," said another, " let me tell you, lads, teat he's been hangin' about Wyoming several days ; I had the information from Lanaway himself. And there's another one with him of the same kind of stuff- as keen on the trail as a nateral-born Ingin, and a dreadful hater of tories. It was he that res- cued the gal t'other night." "If that's the case, we've got no time to lose, for Dunbar is as fleet as a deer and will beat Captain Brant himself on the trail," " They say," .resumed the other, "that this Montour is his equal in daring and all-kinds of woodcraft and .warfare. You see he's got a sprinklin' of Ingin blood, and when you come to mix the white and red: together, it makes 'em oncommon smart. Why, it's been said that he even visited Brant's camp in disguise 1" "Come, lads, this is no time for gossip--. there's work afore us, and we must do it.' We had orders you know, not to hurt the old man ; but as for the nigger there was no particular word given about him, and I s'pose we might as well dispose of him." "Perhaps he'll jine us," said the corporal. " We'll try him, though I should be loth to take the critter's word for it. Look here, you darkey!' do you want to jine the Royal Greens ?" added Norton, raising his voice.I "Does I want to jine ?" 'said Cato, repeat- * -1' 25 - ' a i ! ' '4a{ ,,yam a ; ing the question in that peculiar way character- Cato's arms were bound with a cord which istic of those of his race, materially retarded the freedom of his move- -" Yes, nigger, that's what I asked, and you'll ments, but the eagerness of his pursuers assisted do well to answer it-as quick as possible." him to get rid of this annoyance in a singular Cato mused a moment, and then gravely way ; a bullet struck the cord and severed it so shook his head. that he had once more the use of those useful " Well, what d6 you fay I" continued the ser- members, when his speed was mucli accelerated; geant, impatiently. for in running the arms play an important part. "I couldn't change my skin no how," said In their anxiety to secure- Cato, Devron was Cato,.C.. left quite alone; although for the credit of Ser- "You refuse to jine the Greens ?" geant Norton, we will say that he was first in the I'se made black you understand , and I can't pursuit, butt perceiving that his comrades had in change my color; darfore you see it ,am their zeal forgotten the other prisoner, he stopped unpossible. after going a few rods. Wishing to see how "Then you shall be shot, as the blackest of the affair ended, he tarried a moment to watch rebels'!. the chase, with his back turned toward Devron. "It's de work ob natur, and how can a nigger - help it, massy1?" A great many philosophers have done their Will . best to make reckless mortals comprehend the Wilyou fght for the king, or wont you ?, -Speak up smart, and let's have the question set- value of time, even in its. fractional form of mim- 'Speakt u " autes and seconds; and during the brief period tied at once."g P "I'd like to see de king fwst !" replied the hhich the sergeant stood gazing at the pursuit, seedekig us rpled the c eptergbel atstki black, showing the whites of his eyes, as in duty e captive rebel had a striking proof of that con- bound by virtue of being a negro. stantly coming and going something which cos- ve course upon your slang! you are either onds or minutes; for while he was deliberating veystupid or very cunning. But 111 show you thprriyofm S that I'muinearnves;ryporga utI'lshwo on the propriety'of making an attempt to gain I'm a iea ; corporal, jest lead him out his liberty, he heard some one say: a litle way. "This way, Devron !" Glnotlemea cied siM. Dvron I beg ou Now the good man was so astonished at hear- will not ,harm this simple-minded man. ,Put. arms in his hands and he'lL fight and be ithful ing this eihortation, or mandate, or whatever to you." a' -you may please to term it, that he did nothing " Do you hear that, lads ? He called us mis- but stare about him in a manner to indicate considerable wonder, mingled with ,an equal creants and ruffians not long ago; now' he saysshroficeuty gentlemen!" the sergeant retorted, derisively.y "Thisneredre The corporal followed the directions of the i way, friend Devron, added the unseen sergeant and Cato was led to the distance of monitor, in a more emphatic tone. some ten yards, and directlyttoward the place The person to whom this friendly admonition where&Dunbar and Roland were concealed. was addressed, mechanically moved in the direc- Run for life !" whispered a voice near the tin whence the 'voice proceeded, yet without black, while the corporal was returning to his fully comprehending its exact import. companions. The negro looked around but "Faster, man, faster. The sergeant will be could see no one. back in an instant," was the next direction which Run for life!" repeated.the voice more im- he received; and he was then beginning to have pressively than before. ^ a tolerably well-defined notion that a friend was This time the idea which this command in- really somewhere in the vicinity; therefore he volved, worked itself into the African's under- hastened toward the spot where the voice appear- standing, and without stopping to inquire the ed to be. origin of the warning whisper, he set oi' at a He saw directly before him a huge rock, jut- full run. ting out from the base of the' mountain, seem- "There goes that confounded nigger I" shout- ingly one of its props and pillars; but he could ed Sergeant Norton. - see nothing more until within three yards of its "Fire and after him, you stupid idiots ! give ragged front, when he discovered unbar's head it to himi give it to him!" . . thrustfrom a rift. page: 26-27[View Page 26-27] a r+ Sr.l RF~, .4- sx-+~~c+ ",e:.. , : 26 TE ROYA " Come on-give me your hand-ah, haven't the use of'em-well, your arm will do as Wel," added the scout, and putting forth his brawny liad, he grasped Devron's arm and assisted him to clamber into the assure. "NoW you'e saib," said Montout'. "God be praised I" exclaimed Devton. "This I reckon is- rather a lucky dream- manse, neighbor. I'lljest take another peep out to see where the sergeant is. le's coming' back --now look for sport, for he'll rare right up, lavin' sich an awful temper, when he's mad, santthings don't go to suit him." As the chivalric sergeant drew near the spot where. he had left Devron; he had a.vague' sus- picion that he had departed. without a formal leave-taking. He quickened his pace, expecting to-see him not far off, for he believed that a minutebad scarcely elapsed since he saw him. He looked in vain for his prisoner, and commene- ed running about in a fever, of perplexity. " No hidin'-none of your rebel tricks 1" he cried, thinking it possible that Devron was con- cealed-somewhere in the vicinity. 4'Come out -I see you-what's the use of foolin' !" he add- ed, in a very mild and persuasive way for him but nobody " came out." "A good deal you seehim I" muttered Dun- bar, setting histeeth hard together. "Ifit wasn't so much like murder, I'd send a ball crashing through his' skull in a sepond.. But a soul like his isn't At to appear afore his Maker, and there- fore 11 try and bear with hin a spell longer, though the (good Lord knows it's the same-as pullin' teeth, to my nateral dispersition." - The officer holding such a responsible place in tle Royal Greens, now waxed exceedingly wroth and -said a number of hard things, which it *ould lot edify the reader to hear. Very nat- urally supposing,,that if Devron had.attevnpted, to escape, he, would as a matter of policy run in a direction wholly opposite to that whither the pursuit now tended, he accordingly acted upon the thought and set off in t1hat course. One by one the pursuers came back, until all had returned but, the sergeant; but Cato was not to be seem " I wonder where the sergeant is," said the corporal, who was pretty well blown. "I shouldn't wonder if Devron had given him the slip," rejoinedone of his comrades. This reasonable conclusion appeared to carry general conictidn ; which wan reduced to absolute cer- tainty, when that officer at length' made his ad- L GRERN; vent much out of breath and more out of temper. After taking a hearty drink i'om their canteens -which contained something-stronger than lem- onade-this disappointed fraction of the Royal Greens resumed' their march toward the encamp- ment of Butler, far up the river. When they had passed from sight, Mr. Dev- ron began to express his sense of obligation, but was cut-short by theblunt but honest scout, who refused to listen to anything of that description. "If I hadn't other things on\ my hands, I should foller them chaps and cut 'em off one by one-; but it's time for me to go somewhere else,"' he said. " To see the Delaware chief?" asked Roland, in a low voice. Dunbar nodded assent and motioned to the former to follow him to one side, that he might confer with him' privately. "I'm goin' to find the Delaware chief, accord- in' to our original purpose, and see if we've any- thing to hope in that quarter. As Mr. Devron isn't perhaps so used to travelling the woods as we are, I reckon it wouldbe best for you to show him the shortest way to the valley, in order that he may get back to his daughter to relieve her- fears, which are naterallyexcited on his account. If you feel disposed,. I'd recommend yon to go with him a considerable distance, and if the idea suits you, come back to this spot and wait for me." To this proposition, Montour readily assent- ed, and soon set off with Mr. Devron In si- lence he led the way until his companion began of his own accord to converse. " If I am any judge of such matters, you are quite well versed in the mysteries of woudcraft," he observed. " I think- I have some knowledge of forest life, sir," replied Roland, modestly. "And yet you arequite young ?" "Not so old but^I hope to be older," heit joined, with a smile. "I presume you are somewhat acquainted with the arts of border warfare ?" resumed Devron. "1Too much, sir, too much acquainted with the awful details of war," was the reply. "And so am I, young man. Our own valley presents many melancholy evidences of savage maraud and partial malignity," Devron added. "As young as I may seem to be, I have had my share of adventure and-suffering in this great struggle. Perils have often encompassed me on THE ROYAL GREENS. '?t "rl ik i' ;spa oM Sol .rlJ F' yY aF ' tit j 4 LLt 1l f. l 1 '^ C } LIES 27 every hand. Death has arisen beside me in un- " She has quite gotten over the affair, and is expected moments, and stretched forth his cold only, perhaps, a te paler than usual." hand to grasp me, and Providence has as often The two proceeded to discuss the present snatched me from the power of the destroyer," state of Wyoming, and the aspects which its returned Montour, calmly. prospects assumed. Both agreed in regard to the "Pardon my inquisitiveness, but I believe you nearness of the danger, aidthe need of an named have no friends in the valley, with the exception force to defend the settlements; but Montourdid of Dunbar ?" not fell .at;berty to speak particularly in refer- A slight change passed over the young toan's ence to the premeditated treachery of Lanaway countenance, as he replied. ' and Win "None, Mr. Devron; but I imagine I may mightinsome wayean that ucomenmamtteation safely say that I have enemies there. No, I which the scout and he had framed tomtheplans have neither friend nor relative; I am alone-, approaching crisis; yet he formed to meethe alone in the wide weary world." * out a few hints calculated to put the worthy Dcv- " I trust that it may not be said after to-day ran upon his guard. Whether these honest and that you have no friends at Wyoming," con- well-meant warnings would be received in the tinted Devrot. ."same good faith in which they were spoken, or "And why not I be regarded as base insinuations to injure the "If you will deign to reckon myself and character of another, Roland had little means of daughter as friends, then you will certainly have knowing, for Devron grew thoughtful and made two at the valley," said the old man, warmly. no rejoinder. " You do me much kindness, sir, and I thank When our hero had conductedhiji to a certain you. I hope your fair daughter has fully re- spot where there wad no probability that he covered from the effects of her fright ?" remark- would lose the trail, he left him, and turned ed Roland, unhesitatingly. toward the place where he was to meet the scont. 4 I,4 S i ,j t ,} ' i x - 4 page: 28-29[View Page 28-29] CHAPTER V-, A NEW CHARATER. As Montour advanced and drew near the lo- upon the left hung a task-for water, covered with cality he was seeking, he was surprised at seeing wicker-work-doubtless a piece of skill wrought thy figure of a man standing within a few feet by the Indians. of the rift leading to the subterranean vault. [san xoRAViNo. He stood in a meditative attitude, absorbed, ev- idently, in contemplating the peaks of the dis- His rifle was leaning against a rock at a short aneranges,castheywere defined, in the indistinct- distance from him. After regarding him atten- ness of the twilight hour, dimly against the tively fora few minutes, Roland approached him. skies. He turned quickly at the sound of footsteps, but skiese.i-g the yon man, his alarm vanished at In person he was quite as tall ps the scout, seeig young but considerably stouter. His features were once.'f regular and strongly marked--indicative of en- "So," he said, with a slightly foreign accent, ergy of character, firmness of purpose, and manly " fortune throws us together again." strength of intellect. His beard had been suffer- "Yes," replied Montour. ed to grow on both upper and under lip, and " How has it fared with you since we met .?' now presented to the view of the gazer a some- he added, in a friendly tone. what redundant growth. His head was cover- "Asusual, sir-well, indifferently, and badly; ed by a chapeau, with a broad brim, in some but, as you see, I still survive the ups and downs respects resembling a quaker hat, but having a oflife. I must not forget to express to you conical crown. His. (rock differed from the my sense of gratitude for the important service hunting frocks of the period-not unlike those you rendered me at our last meetings s of more modern. make, and was sicured in front yu "Gratitude !" exlaimed the other, sharply by large metal buttons. His leggins were sini- "Guwmratitude. m t ilar to those in vogue. , His right hand was "u owhy nogt if e wo g tru eath his frock, and just belw thee t- "And why not? If my life is worth aug bowon hatsid, apower ornwas slung; then my debt is certainly honestly dtu."' F"ImZ-1 r . its n f f 1 [r " THE ROYAL GREENS. - 29 Roland's answer indicated some emotion of tion to myself, for Dunbar, the scout, was with "mind, and his companion failed not to per- me. I might, add that more than one felt the ceive it ; and he quickly replied: power of our rifles." "hTo meat least,. nothing is due ;" an~d then " Young man, you had, so far as I was able to his voice assumed a tone of sadness. " When judge, a narrow escape from savage fury. The the good I have performed is measured by that I marks of bullets in the trees were' such as to should have done, the balance is fearfully against sufficiently prove that point." me." e " How did you follow us ? , We took care to "And yet I persist that I am much your leave but small trail behind." debtor. Have you not taken a singular interest "Partly by the trail, and partly because I knew in my movements ? And Iam inclined to think, quite well the direction which you would be moreover, that were the truth fully known, I likely, of necessity, to take." may look to you as the author'of many of those Montour bowed in a way to signify that since mysterious warnings which I have received with- his search had been, successful he was ready to in the space of a few months, which have no hear what he had to say. doubt put me on my guard to such an extent at " For certain reasons I would put you on your to save my life." guard against secret enemies. You would do "God saves life and not man," returned the well to walk these woods with caution." stranger, impressively. "Now you touch a point which interests me "One thing I would like to ask'culd. I do much. While traversing these rugged wilds at so without the appearance of impertinence," various times, I have met with adventures that added Montour. induce the belief that a secret foe was near with "Speak- freely, young man." the most dangerous intent. I have mentioned "Why is it that you walk these woods in this fact to the scout, who. is disposed . to con- safety, when other white men die by the hands of sider it but a fancy springing from an excited the Iroquois ?" imagination. But it seems that I-am not alto- "I suppose fortune favors me." gether in the wrong respecting the matter," he " Then you are a wonderful favorite' of.the added, inquiringly. fickle dame." "Tread the mountain path with care; walk "It is barely possible that I have some secret the forest with watchful eyes ; go on the trail of power with which you are. unacquainted," said the Iroquois with all a hunter's vigilance. Whew the unknown, musingly, at the same time fixing your fire is kindled let its blase rise in an un- a strange look upon Roland. frequented spot and be quickly extinguished. "I confess that you have solved my thoughts! Be wary of the tangled thicket, and look sharply but I will not be so inquisitive as to ask con- to the place where an ambush may' safely lie. ceraing the nature of that secret ; for little has When you pass from spot to spot, go with-can- that to do with me; although a natural curiosity tious rapidity, and stay not two nights in the might give me the desire to be informed," re- same place, or in the same vicinity. You must turned Roland. depend for safety and protection on your own "The answer is discreet, and yet my secret, arm and skill, and not on another. Your life if I have one, may have some connection with thus far has been one of-" you. Impulse is not always consulted by men "Mystery !" added Montour, bitterly. of the world, but prudence and policy. 'I was "Yes, a life of mystery, and if you die now, seeking you when I came hither." you will die in mystery." ."For what did you wish to see me? And-I . "A fitting end to such-an existence," respond- might ask also, by what singular chance you ed Roland. were led hither ?" " Perhaps so," said the stranger, a darker " Some two hours' travel from here I found expressionflitting over his face. what I concluded to be evidence of your work." " The life that has been entailed upon me in "Whst might that evidence have been t' mystery, and been attended with misery, can be " Undeniable signs of a marksman ; I found resigned by me with but small regret. I have' a spot where obviously an enemy had been slain, been cared for, I know, to some extent, and although the body had been removed." should be thankful for the same. I hate, been "I cannot take all the credit of the transac- educated and redeemed from a life of savage fI page: 30-31[View Page 30-31] 8". THE ROYAL .GREENS. - d ha but what the reason that there is a gentle voice that T love ignorance, by some friendly hand, bhear hand, it would indeed sadly perplex me to tell. to " I often thought, when my mind was being sthe wi"Some tawny maiden with the learning of theschools, that perhaps the with some sternnessi d scorned to reply. trail, the war-path, the onset, the fight, we bthet- oytoer foolish arm ansethat yo. ter suited'to my nature. Frequently whenwithoIt were a foosste meto ent'on my books, my truant fancies wandered acrossif took when you rerossed the water to avtce S the blue waters, to the wild wilderness, and I a life like this, heard the bleat of the deer, the growl of the shpconsned my own inclinations" reed bear,. the howl of the wolf, the stealthy tread .o .Montour e an enemy, and' the war-cry of the Delawares. Mona d t Such sounds were music, and I cast myeye d will one day regret the circumstance, I toward my native shore with unutterable long- doubt noti nthatconcerns myselfsir, ing for a wider liberty. What is this that keeps That i somethingase we will dismiss the subject, crying out from my deepest nature.and',prompts and if you pame will dim the righect. me to this wandering life ? What is it but.that Since no one came forward to claim any right o unerring instinct that should be obeyed-instinct govern my actions, I took it upon me to govern imparted by the Master of Life, to last as long myself." as breath and thought ? Strange visions of the "And are you more happy here ?" asked the past sometimes swim before my eyes, and the other, earnestly. element, and I feel that I green leaves and the bending branches discoure wHere Iamhiryelse-Wht anonitor would I again a leasing lullaby, such as cheered and can dwell nowhe el " ' w soothed my infantile years. My heart clings to follow, if not the internal ?" the Lenni Lenape. The words which you have The stranger whom we shall call sLawson,. spoken have forced these recollections, reflections turned from Montour, either o hide someer o- and emotions, upon me, and I have uttered them tioo tat som e itsef un dhis features, r to I thank you for the warning you have given, but look at some oed his former position, and was the danger I fear not ; and indeed, peril and at length address the young man, he found that escape give employment to my mind, aqd' ac- uhet o alone. e gave unequivocal signs of cord but too well with my wild and wandering wa inm e a nequivocal ons of blood. Look imy skin is white, but I know disappointment, and instantly' mounted one of that the blood of the Delaware flows in my veins, the large rocks to see if he could catch a glimpse But I am not ashamed of it ; no, I glory in it, of his figure. Sittingdown, Laine reh frit sa -ol current flowing from a noble his face with his hands and remained in that for it is a noble attitude a long time, indulging in reflections The youngman ceased; his chest heaved vio- which could iot have been very pleasant, pro- lently, and his eyes flashed with singular bright- viding the outward manner was indicative ness. The stranger stood with his face turned inward emotion, partly frm him, yet with his gaze riveted upon Roland Montour, as the reader hell suspect, the speaker with evident interest-an interest hadentered the rocky vault whie within lie- -absorbing and deep. attention was diverted from i Whoblidto "You complain, young man, of your birth found the darkness intense, anti was obling . and its attending circumstances ; and yet it move with much caution to pe walls.g iop- would seem from what you have said, that few cured by contact with the joge which hep- youh i ths nw cunty hvehad such gentle lrg about he found the spot upon which he had youth in this new country have hdsuhgenl . asd h revious night, and lying down nurture. You have been educated; what other pahed the con ihtiond lyin hewn youn m a of you eo d~t on as b en i m i arl th ugh ofthe con versation of the p erson he h ad '' young mred Can young tell me what child of the just left so abruptly. He doubted somewhat, half-breed, beside yourself, has seen the inside of respecting the courtesy of h having received an institution of learning, or been taught the leaving him in such a manner, But the ties precious lore df the whites'? Silly boy i Why imporwee such that he did not feel to trust one with d d y o u le a v e y o u r b o o k s to r e u n a a n' h s e e s c h t h i o f e o t u t o e w t did u e y the secret of the cavern with whom he felt so Because my instincts drew me back, and for' little acquainted. As that singular hiding-place p ' J tk^ I THE OR had been discovered by the scout and used 1 him,.in some measure he might beconsideredi lawful proprietor,, and Montour questioned h own right-to let Lawson into the secret.' Our hero was inclined to cultivate friends relations with the stranger, although his freedom of speech had not altogether comported wit his own independent, notions. He was muc perplexed at many things Lawson had said, an in vain sought for some clue to the source of hi information. He had noticed that hisaccent wa foreign, and'he tried to remember ifhe had sees asperson resembling him in that distant country where he had received his education, but could recall no very definite impressions of such a cir cumstance. He had seen many amen there, witi beardsand voices like his, but he could fix hi mind on no-one with whom he could thpn iden tify the stranger. The more he pondered, th more indistinct and ~disconnected became hi ideas, and he attempted to place his thoughts on another-' theme. Re. ha4 partially succeeded when the warning of Lawson, that he-should not pass two nights in the same place, suddenly oc- curred to him. Had he enemies who followed him, so closely as that warning would seem to indicate? .From certain events that had. trans- pired recently, he feared-that there was too much truth in the supposition ; but the cavern was so curiously hidden from observation, that. Mon- tour felt secure, though not at his ease. Feeling strongly impelled to go from. the vault, he obeyed the impulse. As soon as he reached the rift, he looked for the-stranger,:but he had gone. With his rifle upon his arm, Ro- land slowly threaded the forest. The moon had arisen and cast a mellow light over the wild scenery. The hour and the solitude were in keeping with Montour's mood. His soul held communion with nature, and he forgot in that high and ennobling converse, that he was aldne. "This wilderness," he murmured, "is my home. The broad sky, studded- with silver stars, is my roof; the vistas in the overhanging boughs are my windows; the clouds are my curtains ; the leafy earth my couch. Here I seem to hear the very respirations of the mighty Maker, and my dreams teem with the sweet imagery caught from his own sacred sanctuary-- the wide courts of nature. With one being to love, methinks, I could contentedly_ dwell here forever, wandering up and down amid the wild and fascinating scenery which the great Artist has painted with consummate skill upon the canvass of- earth and sky." YAL GREENS. 31 by Montour ceased to-.soliloquize, and threw a ts ;startled and hasty look around. is "My ear cannot be deceived," he said, after a pause. "I hear the cautious tread of an In- ly dian war-party-the steps are quick, light and m regular." h Montour's first thought was to discover the h direction in which the warriors were moving. d Throwing himself flat upon the ground he taxed is both eye and ear to learn this point. Not much s time was required to determine that matter ; for n the reader must be aware that they were quite y near, or the steps could not have been heard. d They were moving up the river, and Roland - soon saw their dusky forms passing, one after h the other, in the same tracks. s "A female captive !" he muttered to himself, - as the figure of a woman glided along, preceded' e and followed by savages. Montour watched the s train of warriors -until they had swept from his sight, and then, with nimble feet hurried toward the rift. He entered the fissure and pronounced t the name of the scout. Receiving no answer, he Srepeated it in a louder voice, but with no better success. "'This is unfortunate !" he exclaimed. ".I never desired his friendly aid more than now. What shall I do? Wait, I cannot-I am too . impatient to be on the trail. And yet what can my single arm do ? I feel the need of food, too, for I am faint with long fasting." "Montour ! are you here?" said a voice just outside the rift, which he knew to be Dunbar's. "Ah, DunbarI am glad to hear your voice I" returned our hero, earnestly. "And I rather think you'll be glad to taste some of the venison I've brought with me, too. How fares it with you ?" inquired the scout, en- tering the cavern. "A war-party of the Six Nations has just passed up the -river with a captive," rejoined Roland, quickly. " Who have the heathen got now ?" " One whom you know, the half-breed", Mon- tour replied, speaking with hesitancy. "Then they have been hovering about the village of the Delawares." "Quite evidently from the fact that they have taken such a captive." "I have seen the-chief of the Delawares, and now I remember that he spoke of danger from the Six Nations; but the Redskins are so figura- tive in their speech, as 'twere, that you can't well understand the critters,- even when you I' A 4 1 i ! # t . 1 " , .., i cr 'ci '1'h . :..; Ttnvr page: 32-33[View Page 32-33] THE ROYAJ GREENS. know their ways. Can you tell about what num- "Do you remember that hunter's name V her there were in the party, so we can make Montour'asked, in a subdued voice. some kind of calculation what chance we shall "I might have known, perhaps, at' the time, stand with 'em if we take the trail?" but I'4idn't particularly burden my mind about "Not less than a dozen, I should judge; but memberin'it," said Dunbar, evasively. "No les tan doenI soul juge;butleI think I know him, and a kind and noble if there were twice that number I should follow. thinkns," h added Montour. All the best feelings of my nature prompt me to nature s more ontof risk life itself to save the Pale Cloud (for it is we ono a ao im; Sowsom- thus she is known to the Delawares) from thehaerbre wont quarrel about it.Soon after the fate which is in reserve for her as a captive among half-breed wascarried away, we got news that the Iroquois. It is probable that you know why she had passed away and gone, as 'twere, to a I fel hisdep iterstin ermy onsJ~frindbetter country where there aint no more wars, I feel this deep interest in her, my honest friend flghtin's, murders, and tortures. A lew months* ,Dunbar, and I will not'be so foolish as to at- sse mon, and a man came from over the tempt to conceal what must be well understood passed on, as a man ae of oveody' by ouorto ffet n idiferncewhih s fr-water (who was probably the agent of somebody by you, or to affect an indiffrence which is for- else) and took the boy away. Well, when a elong to my nature, and which woul ill become eong time hadelapsed, the Pale Cloud returned mI honor sic sentiments as them.'my'lad, to, the Lenapes or Delawares, alive, and goes and hoe you'll allesnmaintain 'em tillm thi lay nearly distracted about the lad. But it isn't of your death. Great is the sin of ingratituto best, I fancy, to dwell on these matters, as they t m as wahom Ge at ow me s n o we i r a n eo -m ight ~awake feelin's not altogether pleasant. them as whom we owe more nor we can ever As for the trail, I'm ready to take it, and do all and well old Dunbar, the scout, knows how kind I can to save the oneyou're thinkin' of, from a wsto a little boa great many years ago, the accursed ferocity of the Iroquois. But first afore the fist white settlements were made go I will kindle a fire in our cozy hiding-place, that this valley. And I sha'n't forget in a hurry the the eravin's of nature may be satisfied by prdpe pride she took in the dark-eyed lad. She was as foodle the friendly scout wa lighting the - handsome as a picter then. That was 'afore she the fout was l tn was carried off by the savages-for you have fagots and Preparing the food, Montour sat iean- heer ho shewastake an marhedoff ntoing upon his hands with abstracted air, musing, herd how she was taken and marched off into ingsuon what he had heard.- H ow much of the land of the then powerful Mohawks, and perhaps, onwmuch of regret and happiness, he everybody as knew her give her up for dead. I pain, hw mufret and thres he remember it as though it wasn't but yesterday. might have suffered then and there, we cannot The boy I've been speaking' of was saved from say ; because sometimes the emotions are pent captivity by a white hunter that was among the upno the mere looker on. Delawares. The child -was then scarcely old known toothezmeresloohereeno enough to realize his loss, yet he grieved for the one who had gone, for many a long day." . ~41 CHAPTER VI. tnza TIAIL. Wa now pass over an interval of several days. our present scene opens at'Wyoming Valley, Lanaway and Wintermoot were earnestly con- versing in the, forest just above the fort bearing the name of the latter. "It is evident," said Lanaway, "that we are suspected of being more friendly to the loyalists than what we profess to be. I doubt whetherewe shall be'safe much longer in the valley." "There can be no question of that. Many of our rebel neighbors frown on us, and regard us With looks that cannot be mistaken. I am in. lined to think that Dunbar and the young'man who is always with him, are at the bottom of this, if the truth Were known," said Wintermoot. " That is a matter long since settled in my mind ; and I have taken measures to rid myself of their troublesome watchfulness," returned the other.- "Plans that have reference to them must be surely laid and well executed, for more expe- rienced and cunning fellows never trod the for' eat," Wintermoot answered. "'Well do I know that they are ever on the Alert, for already have they baffled my purpose more than once. But look! who comes here " "A friend," replied the person whose aps proach- had excitedthe last remark. "PFrom whom ?" inquired Linaway. "I know this man, and can form some guess of his errand," said the other. "Is your name Wintermoot V" asked the man. " It is ; we are alone-speak freely. Are you the bearer of any especial message V" " I come from the camp of Colonel John -Butler." " There are no inquisitive ears near us added Wintermoot, perceiving that the messen- ger hesitated. " Not long since the colonel sent an Indian td confer with you on important subjects." " Ete;eame-faithful to his trust." "But has not returned," said the man. Both Wintermoot and Lanaway manifested surprise. "That is most strange. We met him at the hour appointed, received the instructions of the colonel, and duly arranged the matter to mutual satisfaction. We acceded to the propositions of which the,Mohawk *as the bearer," rejoined the former. "A few days ago, the body of the Indian mes- senger was found in the river,-some four or five miles above Lac awannoek Gap." Lanaway and .his friend looked at each other uneasily, an a slight paleness overspregd their features. rN- R. 9 , t r E i r to i s i f I ! - page: 34-35[View Page 34-35] 84 THE ROYAL GREENS. "Were there any papers found on the body " ed Wintermoot demanded. ly "Nothing of the kind." " Then I fear we are betrayed! How was it a" "A rifle bal passed through his breast, most yo evidently." m "It is the work of the scout 1" muttered Lanaway. t " This is bad. I wonder exceedingly that we sthv o eoeti oetfle itfi oan havno before thiswont efalle, victim to ai the. fury of our rebellious neighbors. If the he scout had a hand in this business, why has he kept the matter so much tohimself ? why has, b he not publicly denounced us i" "He is too cunning for that. Depend on it he's been studying up something deeper than that. He is, you are aware, not a man to do i things by halves. If he really killed the Indian, si we shall hear from him in some way that we do not expect," said Lanaway. " Go back to the colonel and tell him that the time fixed upon was the second of Jay, at mid- a night. It will be enough to tell him this ; as- sure him that I shallbe ready," said Wintermoot. "This is all you would say " "All, except to warn you to watchfulness on your return. Dunbar is busy now, and if heI takes your trail, you'll never -see the camp of Butler again." - "Is he so dangerous as this special warning t would seem to indicate " -" He and a young man called Montour, are moving about from place to place with the speed of a moose, observing the movements of the different partiesengaged in this strife, anddoing much to hinder the success of the royal arms." " Iam somewhat used to the woods and will do my best to keep out of their way. And now, if there's no more to be said, I'llhurry back to camp." --The messenger departed, and Lana- way a dW intermoot turned toward the fort. While this scene was passing In the forest, another was enacting at Mr. EHunlon's. The family had assembled in the large square room in whirkthe plentiful board was always spread, and were about to sit down to the principal meal of thelday, whensthe scout appeared at the door, which Mr. Hudson quickly threw open, and cordially greeting Dunbar; invited shim to enter. Ellen Devron beheld his approach with much Interest, andwondered Iftfontbtr was not near; for-sincebeth -her fherntberselgrreindebt" to him for efficient services, she felt a friend- regard for the gallant young stranger. " We are very glad to see you again," said r. Devron. " The last time we met was un- r different circumstances, and when I saw ur honest face emerge from the rock, it was to Le a most welcome sight." " Well, I suppose it might naturally be, all ings considered; for you was in a kind of ,might place as one may say. I hope the gals ad the women folks generally are in usual health i" "They may speak for themselves, Mr. Dun. ar ; you will see them all here, I believe, if you eok about you." "Where is Mr. Montour?" asked Devron. We surely must not be so ungrateful as not to uquire after the welfare of one to whom we feel o much indebted." ,.-t A change passed over the countenance of the cout, and for an instant he was silent. " I hope no evil has befallen the young man ?" dded Devron. "He's taken" replied Dunbar, mournfully. " By whom " was the quick inquiry. "The Mohawks." 'The scout looked up and met the eyes of Ellen fixed earnestly upon him, and noticed that her cheeks were very pale. "What were the circumstances of his cap. ture ?" returned Devron. . "Asmall war-party of the Mohawks captured a half breed woman-near the village of the Dela- wtes, and we took the trail in order to liberate her, if possible; because there's somethin' dread- helin the idea of a human cretur's being' given up to the tender mercies of the cruel savages, especially female. We followed 'em two days afore we could do anything. On the second night of the pursuit, they stopped to eat and sleep. After building a fire, and cookin' and seatin',they set one to watch, and laid down in their-blankets, having secured the captive in a way toleave her little chance of-escape. About midnight the one on guard began to dose, and finally fell asleep so soundly that he wont wake till he last trumpet is sounded. We stole up behind-him and-and he never knowed -what hurt him-it was done so sudden and -unexpeet ed. e-served all the rest of' 'ami the same way, with-"onlyone exception,1nd~ he-'idn t get off-with-a-whole skin. It was a bloody-affair; but you see there was no help for it ; for the ale Cloud couldn't'have been liberated in no A. a ol" " t z " a"y a riT" a" 4w f l rr ' , f ry r r 1; yam e 4ya EE t MO. Nr tai oop, P9, " QW, Ct " ' L E i f F I 4 E ROYAL GREENS. - other way. While returning with the woman, Dunbar now for the Birst time seemed to by Montour, on the second day, near dark, went to aware that Cato was ~resent, and turning hal kill a 4eer ; for we had fasted long enough to comical look upon hime, ad int ur a af feel uncomfortably hungry, as 'twere. In a voice: -d short time I heard his rifle crack and soon ex- "Run for life 1" pelted to see him; but h didn't come. The Cato's .eyes-iustantl# exhibited their white por- female grew uneasy, and so did I, for I -was eer- tions in a .generous manner, and he -apperdt tam, In my own mind, that something had-hap comprehend a great deal more atppnce than penned. Not daring to leave her, I-took herewith usual. me and started off to findthe young man; but I "Pat's den b 1 at's do same ' e y only discovered signs of a struggle, and the trail' Golly, mnassa Dunbar, dldn'tit make die daesI of a large war-party. After attending to the : wool curlide, wrog way," he exclaimed. @' safety of the half-breed -woman, I thought I "What did y yu think it ene would come in and tell you that -the danger is heard it ?" asked th waswhen youourtt cirain' eare andnearr.""Why bress your soul, I fught it was, de No one spoke and the scout continued : debbi ilaselfome arter. die child trepliedt e " The storm will soon burst over your heads; African. opedthe for the skies grow dark, as 'twere, and Butler's "Cato -acquitted himself ve thunder will soon shako the-hills. You -must get bar," said Devron, smiling. w word to Colonel Denison to muster the Wyo- " edid well r e i' ming.militia, what there is-of it, and have the rejoined the hunter, intr, females lodged in the 'forts.. I've done my best "I h u er, g sely. to ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ metIuninhotlennn eyou have no unreasonable penie to meet cunning with cunning, and make one against color;?" Ellen remarked, thing offset another, so that their plans-may fail; "I ,e but I'm sorry to say.that I'-ve but small hope of Icant say that I have any unreasonable accomplishin' myups.Iengtbtltl prejudices, but I have some very -reasonable aop ihn y, purpose. I can -getbt little ones. You see, Miss Ellen, a -nigger is a-ni. help where I expected:much, and the people of e adyou sean, wsh it out; nfr h clr is the Valley haven't yet waked up to -"ousce of ger, and you can't wash it out ; for -the color is what's afore 'em, ayed what will oon.make 'em set-dyed -in the wool, as 'twere. I have an stagger with horror, like the shoc of an airth- idea that an immortal eretur ought to look white; qaker w dth e li- the pl o ffaceand and hasn't no particular business with-any other neglect no means of defence thepacein and complexion. But as lI have said, Cato did well- ower."orone of that unhappy -hue, - and more than * I would that our women and .children couldmight be expected, for it isn't every white-'man Ie set-awayfrom tht raey, saidruds as would have refused, under the careumstances, bsoughtfuly. f-, to jine -the Royal - Greens." wishs. so from my heart;.butIwhere'"and"I couldn't be nufin but- black, cause dat's you send 'em-? If they go to the north or to the "D way s eddicated." soun, to the east or to the -west,.they may meet l Do you hear that?" added the scout tarn- foes. You are taken in-the tails of the-hunter, cne to lviraHudson, He says he was eddi- as I may say. The everlastin' mountains hem oue do not ih you iii. on every aide, and :everypas"u You, do not 'wish to assert that honest Cato dele is watched by sage -eyes. i Wsnevery was educated to any other color, Mr. Dunbar ?" C41 isgo ? To the ouanys. thperis the torted Miss Hudson, with a smile. hunger i There msfet ainstoprish?' ith "Sartinly not, miss ; but when once a person's "huner eessad-trh in viey skin has been nade black, he'sjest about ruined, "1 er'e sense, and -truthbin every wordnhe as were, for this world ; because yeh see soap utterstaid Ellen, who had been a Silent and and-water-wont do no good; it sticks like the 'at lteeruh inmark of Cain, and is an eternal witness against "That there', truth in, It, I -know, And ever hi. thing true is more or les sensible, acordin' t lt lh tn i- bmton in Notwithstahnding/DfitItkeielf'nbar spoke in a depreca- turned the-scout, t , ne ng manner respecting Cato's color, he still re- " Dat ack1" afdCat wh - garded him with-a friendly look that could not "Dte ack 1" said Cato, *ho found it qite be mistaken-nismnia impossible to keep silent any lon. t I nbe mtke itsomeaiind. angerr, In the rapid alternatioan of.,e'ine: a ad itndd , t , ; , rev ' A . griF . page: 36-37[View Page 36-37] 86 'fl i notAL onIENS. we haksehitherto spoken of Elvira Hudson'in a casual way only. We will at this stage of our storyetate that she was about the same age as Ellen Devron, and in many respects like her in person and disposition. A good share ofbeauty -ad been accorded her by nature-that some- what erratic dispenser of gifts. - Her fresh and gwingecheeks; cherry lips, and laughing dark eyes, had produced a very decided impression eisn Edward Gaston ; and though he was an unpresming, person and said btit little, he was often found in the society of Miss Hudson,'Iook- ig those gentler'sentiments which he could not summon courage to express in vocal sounds. Many a feeling of jealousy had the unpretending attentions of Gaston awakened in the bosoms of certain young men of his own age. Among those who regarded his advances with settled dislike, no one was so hostile to his pur- pose as .Martin Secord. This individual had been a resident of Wyoming but i yeafor two, and his adhesion to the royal cause was at that time strongly suspected. He watched the grow- ing intimacy between the parties mentioned, with feelings of diseatisfactioll which he could not well conceal. He had triedin various waysbto make himself agreeable to Miss Hudson, _but had been steadily repulsed at all points. It is a fact generally understood that there is a certain class of young men who will not accept the brief monosyllsble. "no," for an answer, when they venture upon the bold experiment of asking gen tie damsels hard questions ; but perseveringl -persist i their purpose, rto the great annoyan of the faik ones, who prefer to have their ows choice in matters of this delicate nature- Martin Secord belonged to the class retrred to, and npver met Miss Hudson without directly or indirectly pressing his suit. The constn refusals which he received served to incree the acerbity, of a disposition naturally sour, when he perceived another ready to b af di coveted prize, hs inherent malignancy and dis content, received fresh stimulus. With evil ey Ike noted the visits of Edward Gaston, and con coeted dark schemes of vengeance. Being tral royalist at heart, he imagined that he saw ninth means of working out his designs. Being int mate with Lanaway, Wintermoot and-others'o a similar mode f sinking, .he was a party;t their nefarious plans. With;the first he was: particularly good ternnsf it wasin his pw' to tell an oxpe gaee 4A unlike his own-.-a cif cumnstance -calcelated to produce sympathetic relations between them., Miss Ellen Devron had repelled emphatically the addresses of Lana. way; while Miss Elvira Hudson had as unequivo- cally manifested a disinclination to change her name to Secord,; and these two facts taken to, gether were enough to produce a strong fellow. feeling aside from any political considerations. In Edward Gaston, Martin fancied he sawan enemy to-his happiness, as well as an enemy to the king ; but'Lanaway was rejected without 'knowing for whom-Ellep had a partiality, or if she had a preference for any one in particular. If he had suspicions respecting her inclinations, by some inexplicable weans he got the idea into his mind that I.they--Ellen'a inclinations-tended toward Roland' Montour. He was sure .that there had been but little intercourse- between them, but he thought there had been sufficient to beget a mutual liking. How this notion could justly have been formed, is not easy to deter- mine; but disappointed lovers are apt to get all sorts of strange ideas into their cfazy heads., If the reader taes the trouble to reflect, he will see at once that but little opportunity has been given for wooing, so far as the parties named are concerned, although doubtless they ilave had ' ample time to' do that incomprehensible thing denoted in everyday parlance, " falling'in love." f But it makes no important difference whether there was any truth in this conception, or how it had its origin, for when'it was once fairly a - guest in Lanaway's brain, it assumed' allithe vitality of sobermatter of fact, dud Rolandwas a marked out as a particular victimof his traitor ous plotting. Being the mutual repository 'of I each other's secrets, the two young men became objects of their hatred; and their names werd t written first in the list of their intended victims. e Wenhave thought proper to make this digirs- d slon, because while the scout was talking with e Cato, or rather just as' that conversation-ceased, - Martin Secord entered- the cabin. - He saluted e the partiet in a general though somewhat re- - strained mnnamer; but when his gea cane' to k rest upon Dunbar, his embarrassment, was ob- e vious, or at least was to- two .or three persons o who were watching his conduct. Among those i- present he did not see Edward Gaston, and he )f felt that he could wel dispense with hisbnspany. g Refusing the seat whichwasoffered, he paused q near the door, holding in his right hand his rifle, rr for- in thoserdays men s9ldom left home' e- r- armed. s F 3 .' c, yT - ; . w°F tZY'e{ s i; y , xP ' { _ 3 Y~sS j t ' ' it .. ; F ." ' j; i7s e,: at ' :'S+ ' ' f - ,-e 5 T ti I ' ,. Im ,'( t Y . 6 r, 4 ~ -T= ROYAL GREENS. 87 , We have asserted that Martin Secord was sus- " Somethin' whispers in my ear and assures pected of being a friend toethe royal cause ; and me that there will be a long, wvoful Wail of. sot- he was in fact an object of suspicion to- a greater ' row in this valley, and the waters of the Sue- extent than he was himselftaware of. ,Dunbar's quehanna will run red with blood--with the very opinions respecting him were known to but few, life-blood of those who have been neighbors and for he was one of those prudent, non-committal friends, breathed the same air and' professed the persons who show their zeal' more by stions same religion. Wicked men and knaves may than by Words. Martin thought the present triumph -for a season; but etarnal right will pre- would be a fitting opportunity to draw out the vail at last, and woe ! woe-! to them as we meet scout's-sentiments ; but notwithstanding all. his arterward face to face, in the field, with the Ged boldness and assurance (of which he had much), of battles lookid'-down to see justice, done !" he it was not without some misgiving that he made added, in an impressive tone. ha ng inquiry. Again the scout struck his rifle upon the floor "Whtlat news do you bring us, 1 Dunbar.?"' while his swart visage shone as with the' true Martin didnotlook the scout in the face, lut spirit of prophecy. b usied himself by gazing vacantly intoithe- muz- zle of his rifle. There were several individuals Martin Secord raised his hitherto averted face, in the room who were steadily observing Secord, and gazed at the speaker ; and while he did so but whose habits of self-control were such that a painful expression passed over his sinister face ; they were able to restrain all outward appearance probably a feeling of momentary dread and re- of curiosity. Miss Hudson, although pretend- gret such as theo false-hearted feel in moments ing to have her attention fixed upon her friend when the voice of truth produces a single vibra- Ellen, nevertheless managed to keep a search- tion upon the strings of conscience. ing glance directed toward Martin, whose posi- -"Do you think-our cause is lost ?" he asked,- tion, it must be allowed, was an embarrassing in a tone not quite steady and full. one. - "If you mean by our cause the cause of the " The news that I bring could be put -in an whigs, then I say that it is not and never can be egg shell, a 'twere ; and though it may perhaps lost ; but if you'mean the tory cause, then I am have some interest for some people, it wouldn't one as can say afore the God as foamed me from be of no great consequence to you." the dust, yes, lost forever and ever, If Butler "You are so much abroad that I supposed brings down upon us (aided by our most inveter- you could tell us something about the- move- ate and accursed foes who live among us and ments of the enemy ?" added Martin, still star- mingle with us daily) the Iroquois confederacy, ing into the muzzle 9f his gun. - the Onondagas, Cayugas, Mohawks,=Oneidas, "Martin Secord, I am scoutin' about consi4- Senecas and Tuscaroras-if he brings them here erable, and have learned several things as would to sweep the valley-with terrible destruction, I . make many cheeks turn pale as ashes, if I should predict sure ruin to the Six Nations, fitting pun- speak boldly out. But the time hasn't quite ishment upon the Joyal Greens and the tories come yet to divulge the secrets as go with me on generally. -the trail and sleep in my own brain when I lay "What can the whigs do ?" said Martin, with down under the- trees at night. We live in a a start. strange wof-ld, and there's a heap of nateralhy- "They will muster a force into the field that pocrisy in it. -I know that these times are dark will sweep northern Pennsylvania and western and the hand of misfortin' is stretched out agin New York cleaner than the white floor of this the defenceless dwellers in this valley. Yes, I cabin, as 'twere. Yes, they'll march up the know it well;ut.let me tell you, Martin, that Susquehanna terrible in their might, and the the hour approaches when them as conspire homes of the royalists and the heathen will be agin the peace and safety df women and children, left desolate, desplate!" answered Dunbar, with will be called on to give an awful account of a voice almost of prophetic emphasis. their doin's.c tEvery eye was. now fixed upon the scout, Here the scout struck the butt of his rifle vi- whose heaving chest and rapt visage contrasted lently upon the floor, and his hardy face lighted strangely with his usual placid manner. up with a fierce enthusiasm that no one had seen " The strength of the rebels is broken," re- u plied Martin,in a low butexcited voice. 3 3t i N i 11 all 0 page: 38-39[View Page 38-39] 8 . . THE ROYAL GREENS. " Think so,if you will, you poor, misguided cretur I Think so, till you hear the crack of Morgan's rifles, and the loud roar of Proctor's artillery." "Morgan's rifles I" exclaimed Martin, with a quivering lip. "Agin afore I depart, let me say woe to him as betrays his neighbor, and doesnot so much as say 'the Phillistians be' upon thee.' These words as I throw out now wont be likely to be repeated by me ; and some as now hears me will soon hear me speak in another way-with the flashing powder and the whizzing ball.". " May God in his good providence protect the right !" exclaimed Mr. Devron, in a fervent and solemn manner. "Amen, say I to that, and it don't come from my throat either, but from my very soul-my soul as is immortal,,and as I hope will one day be accounted worthy to be saved--saved with them as prove faithful to their country and the cause of liberty." Martin Secord looked toward the spot where Elvira was seated, and encountered her bright eyes speaking volumes of scorn, contempt and pity. To increase his ill-humor and mortifica- tion, the.door was opened and Edward Gaston stood in their midst. Casting one dark and threatening glance toward the fair damsel, and another upon the scout and the last comer, Mar- tin grasped his rifle nervously and strode from the cabin. CHAPTER VII. MARTIN'S SCHEME. THE shadows, of night had rested some three The soft, and flickering, reflections of the burd- hours on the valley of Wyoming, ana the pale ing wick shone on Miss Hudson's face in a man- mistress of that dimmer part of the day had just ner to display its loveliness to the best advan- reached that portion of the skies where she could tage, and while Secord felt his passion for her vaguely paint the forms of the trees and other scenery upon the banks, in the waters of the Susquehanna. Martin Secord was wandering about like an unquiet spirit of evil, forbidden' to rest by the continual chiding of a bad conscience. Many times during the evening, he had approached the cabin of Mr. Hudson, and as often changed his mind and walked away in another direction; but now bracing up his courage to the point desir- able, he advanced until he stood by the little. window. Although it is esteemed bymany per- sons a breach of etiquette to look in at a neigh- bor's window, Martin had no such scruples. He saw a candle burning upon the plain deal table, and its fitful beams revealed a sight that made him bite his lips with jealousy and rage. The dim rays fell upon the forms of Elvira Hudson and Edward Gaston, sitting not far apart, conversing-in low and confidential tones. This was a scene ill calculated to soothe the already irritated feelings of a rival lover. He beheld the maiden whom he imagined most dear' of all in the world, receiving the attentions of one whom he regarded as a rebel and an enemy. increasing, his hatred for the young man at her side grew in the same proportion. He gazed a mouxent longer upon the sweet face of the maiden, and then with a muttered curse fled from the window, as though pursued by some powerful and dreaded foe, Walking now fast and then slow, and now pausing to collect his thoughts, Secord at length reached a sheltered spot near the river. With folded arms, sullen brow, and compress- ed lp, he stood awhile and gazed at the shad- ows which the gentle moon was flinging into the limpid water. Those insensible and fantastic figures 'seemed to awaken reflection. "Shadows I" he exclaimed, " shadows falling upon the fickle water, even like the image of Elvira falling upon my heart." Martin signed,-and then looking up at the moon, added : "Hury on--hurry on, cold, insensate orb I Hasten on ,thy ethereal way, that the hour of vengeance may come speedily. Thou alone, 0 unsympathizing planet, shalt be witness of this deed. Look on then, if thou wilt, and see me strike a viper from my path, and send a rebel on '. I , I { :YiSZK- of711 C j lU j r eii " , + y ' f t v _ d rs +yjy yy . ._ .wwwo+ 114 A. rrw.Nww V c } _ page: 40-41[View Page 40-41] r s F LL GREENS. 40 THE ROYA his last long march, without beat of drum or sound of trumpet." Martin ceased and carefully examined the priming of his rifle, adjusted the flint,,and took every precaution to put it in the best of order. He then crouched 'in the abundant shrubbery, and thrusting his weapon through the same, so as to command the path that came very near it, in one of its erratic bends, lay quite motionless.' 0, night, thou great witness of crime ! how many a tale of wickedness couldst thou tell, wert thou sentient and endowed with human speech ! But thy Master, dark night, hath wisdom, and a voice, and an eye more om- niscient and omnipresent than thine, and verily he reproves the world of sin, of righteous- ness and of judgment, and bringeth all hidden things to light. We cannot trace the direful thoughts that rushed through the brain of Martin as he laid there upon the ground ; but they must have been of a kind akin to the pains of the 'consuming fire's of Hades. His eyes grew weary of gazing at vacancy, and picturing forms and faces when there were none near him. Sometimes a bush or a twice caused his heart to beat quicker, -and took, in his morbid sight, a figure familiar, and flitted about before his tired vision like a mock- ing phantom. He was obliged to press -his aching' eye-balls 'and close the lids upon them, in order to exorcise the deceptive forms. Hitt what was that which sent the blood rushing to its fount, and then forced it back to his faey with indescribable celerity'? It sounded like-a footfall, and a footfall it was. Martin peered from his ambush to catch the first glimpse of the person who might appear ; but his sight - was so clouded that he, saw nothing distinctly at first. But soon a real figure, endowed with voli- tion and locomotion, was visible, and he knew that his strained eyes were deceived no longer. The man approached - slowly, and Martin could not well- mistake the height, etep and bearing of Edward Gaston. He placed his cheek to the breech of his rifle, and- looking along the barrel, covered the breast of the young man-the honest heart full of the love of Elvira Hudson. Martin's finger touched "the trigger, and tried to keep his pent-up breath fromm burst- ing forth with a nervous vehemence to destroy the deadliness of his aini. He was sure that his rival would not live ailother instant, when with a prolonged and fearful shudder that seemed to teach the very marrow of his bones, he felt a hand laid quietly upon his shoulder. Martin's finger fell nerveless from the trigger, and he turned behind him a look so startled, and re- vealed a visage so pale, that his crime was al ready confessed. Dubar, the scout of the Sus quehanna, stood beside him. The young man was about to rise, but the hunter placed his foot on his prostrate form, and motioned him to be quiet until Gaston had passed. There followed a few ;moments of silence, during which time the emotions of Martin were not of a nature to be envied. When Elvira's lover had turned the bend and disappeared, the scout suffered Secord to recover his feet, which he did with fear and trembling. " I wish I was a painter,-that I might make a picter of a midnight assassin !" said Dunbar, looking sternly at Martin. "I suspected that your principles wasn't no better nor this. Mur- der must come easy to one who tampers with the enemies of liberty, and cells his neighbors to John Butler, to be cut to pieces by his ran- gers ?" added the scout. " I suppose it don't make much difference what you think. Everybody don't see the same thing in the same way,"-replied Martin, sullenly. "I can't spend much time in talkin' with one like you, because it's a waste o' words ; but that I havecaught you in the act of committing a greatacrime, you can't deny. Now some folks would have finished you at once, but that isn't my way of doing business" said the scout. " Of course I wasn't intending to fire," added Martin. "I am too old a man to be deceived by so foolish a falsehood, and so I'll-spare you the trouble of repeating it. If-you was better pre- pared to die, Iwould make an end of you on the spot ; but I can't bring my mind to send you out of time in such an onprepared state. You must be very careful in future in regard to your conduct; because I shall have an eye on you, as 'twere." Secord could make no reasonable reply,: and therefore, with downcast eyes, muttered some- thing about people's minding their own business. "-If we should ever chance to meet agin in sich a manner as we have to-night, we sha'n't part in the same 'way, but you'll go where you wont come back to do mischief, and serve the wicked one, as I may say." " I hope you wont say much in relation- to this. You see the girl's beauty has turned my THE ROYAL head, and I hardly kpow what I'm doing," said Martin, in a more humble tone. "That's a poor excuse, Martin Secord, though perhaps better nor none." ' "You never loved a fair creature like Elvira Hudson," returned the other. "I have loved in my day-and as- fair a cre- tur as ever walked up and down the airth, but it didn't make me seek to take the-life of a feller- bein',"said the scout, sadly. "How long ago might that be ?" "I don't care to tell how long or how short; ...:4 that's my secret; ,but I'm not the worse for h-in' loved. Ginerwine love, it seems to me, doesn't make the heart dark with-wicked pas- sions, but purifies it, as 'twere, from airthly dross. I'm not very larned in books, and don't know much about the opinion, of them as may have written on the subject, but I've a strange notion, though it perhaps arises from my igno- rance, that true love, accordin' to the course of natur, elevates one's mind, as I may say, and fortifies it agin the temptations of the enemy." Martin looked steadily at Dunbar as if he did not quite take his meaning. Bad is he unques- tionably was, he could-not help feeling the force of the scout's reasoning, nor resist the convic- tion that he was influenced by motions higher and manlier than his own. There was, to the dark soul of Secord, something-inexplicably curi- ous in the honest nature of Dunbar, and the sentiments which he advanced with so much simplicity. 'f You look at me as though there was sqme- thin' oncommon droll in the idea that I should have loved a fair maiden ; but love' is' a thing which finds its way into all places, and can't be kept out by lock, key, bolt or bar. And why should you stare as though it was out of the common order of events for a man like me to confess the power of gentle woman I Secord, you know but little of the human heart, if you imagine a roggh exterior cuts one off from the rest of mankind, and makes him impregnable to beauty, as 'twerp." "Did you have a rival ?" inquired Martin. The scout passed his hand over his eyes and something like a sigh escaped him. "I dare say I had a rival, because she was wondrous fair, and it couldn't well be otherwise; but I don't know sartin. Sonmetimes I was fool enough to think she didn't dislike me at all, and was, in fact, partial to me, as I may say." Again Dubar paused.' LL GREENS. 41 "How long before you forgot her ?" Martin aiked, with soine interest. "Forgot her ! that time hasn't come yet !" replied Dunbar, in a low voice, casting his eyes upwardd to the silvery sky, with. a patient and resigned expression. "Your nature is different from mine," said Martin. "I"- should hope so-I wouldn't have a natur like yours on no consideration whatsomever. With your dispersition I shouldn't expect to die a peaceful death, or experience a very happy hereafter." During the time this conversation had been going on, Martin's right hand had been in the pocket of his hunting frock, and his fingers had been working nervously over something which it contained. At one moment his feelings soften- ed, and at the next some word of the scout Would change them back to their wonted hard- ness and impenetrability. There was a conflict in his breast between good and ill, and he could neither summon resolution to carry out his half- formed determination, nor command sufficient virtuous resolve to abandon 'it; therefore he strove to prolong the conversation with Dunbar until he should have worked his courage to the proper condition. The truth was, that he had in his pocket a pistol, and it was that weapon that his uneasy fingers toyed with so assiduously and clutched with the, nervousness of an imper- fectly planned deed of wickedness, which was too far developed to forego, and not matured enough to execute without some hesitation. So while the scout stood beside him, merci- fully scorning to take advantage of the discovery he had made, and Which in other hands would have resulted most fatally, he was forming a' deadly purpose,. forgetful of the forbearance of the man in whose power he now found himself. When Dunbar turned his thoughtful face to- ward the placid heavens, as if to hold commu- nion sweet with the distant planets, and imbibe a portion of their gentle serenity, Martin cocked the pistol in his pocket. Instantly he felt a powerfulgrasp upon his arm, and saw the eyes of the scout fixed sternly upon him. " Habit, young man, is second natur, and my ears have long been trained to detect the slight- est sound. The experience of many years don't go for nothin'. A poor woodsman should I be, if I couldn't hear the click of a rifle or a pistol, or the crackling of the smallest twig,", he .said, page: 42-43[View Page 42-43] tr C a, l. } dj[ i" at . , Y^, ((T C ^x: k3 - }1ti lit" ty 1 L GREENS. 42 THE ROYA tightening his hold upon Martin as he proceeded. " Murder's in your heart agin, but' I'll forgive ye once more, for it was nateral for one like you to want to get rid of one who might perhaps be a troublesome witness agin you. I see that you wont never be a better man, but it isn't my duty to judge and punish you at present ; but should we meet as open foes, in'the field, it will fare- poorly with you. And I've a sort of presenti- ment; as'twere, that this long, dark barrel which you 'see here afore you, will one day look you n the face, as I may say; if it does, you'll be done with everything of an airthly natur. - liw go, and don't stop to look back, or I may lose patience and break my resolution to give you a chance to repent, and get into a better state to CHAPTER VIII. THE ONnIDAS. IT has been casually stated that the Iroquois confederacy (constituting the Six Nations), em- braced the Onondagas, Senecas, Mohawks, Cayu- gas, Tuscaroras and Oneidas. These allied tribes inhabited northern Pennsylvania and west- ern New York, committing cruel ravages upon the north-western frontier. Small war-parties under their respective chieftains continually hung about the border settlements, rushing. from their covert in the still night hour, slaying helpless families, firing dwellings, and bearing off in savage triumph- reeking scalps, torn from the heads of old and young-from loving mothers and fair maidens, lisping children, and- hopeful youth. It wasone of these predatory bands into whose power Roland Montour had fallen.- We have given only Dunbar's brief version of that event, and therefore deem it proper to make a more detailed statement in regard to the same. It has been sufficiently set forth that the half-breed woman, passing among the Delawares by the name of Pale Cloud, had been duly rescued by- the combined cunning and bravery-of our hero and the scout. The habiteof the Indians to be- stow nicknames is universally known to those having any definite knowledge of native cus-1 toms. . Such appellations. are usually derived from some' peculiarity of the person to whom they are given, or of the place which they occupy. It will be enough for the-right understanding of our story, to say that the name which the half- breed had originally received from her ]French sire, Was Katherine ; but. after his decease her name was little used by the Delawares, it being considered by them a very hard, unnatuial, and strange one; so that the sobriquet-of Pale Cloud ultimately forced the civilized cognomen from the field. If, therefore, we should occasionally employ the name derived from the white side of her pedigree, the reader will be at no loss to comprehend us. It will not be profitable to dwell upon the de- tails of the pursuit and rescue of the half-breed. We would not direct the attention too much to scenes of blood-no more than what the fear- ful pictures of that period reveal-nor even so much ; for the minds of thesympathizing turn in horror from the simple history of that dread- ful dramna, the star actors of which were parti- zan murderers and native warriors, tricked out in all the deadly; habiliments of such a stage. The work had been right well accomplished, and the sole survivor of his party returned to his people witha dangerous wound and a story that produced mourning among the braves. At the close of the second day's -travel toward the valley, it became imperatively necesa'ry that go hence into that unknown region where they say repentance does no good." With downcast eyes and unsteady step, Mar- tin turned from Dunbar, took the path which Gaston had so - recently trodden, and- in a mo- ment was out of sight. The scout moved a few steps down the river and paused. Perhaps he was thinking of the past. *Possibly his thoughts dwelt on the maiden he had been speaking of, and the quiet loveli- ness of the night in some way reminded him of that being who had touched the fountain of his affection with the wand of her beauty, causing it to send forth a stream that would flow on un- checked and undiminished until life itself waned like the feeble flame of a failing lamp. 4t a , 3 f +g t 4t of w* li ^ L li J. 's f r ' -?''§ R . ,' i '"Ys"" .:Y ' S :.l{tR _ , . Y_-W- . r , s _ .,- 1.L, y +..- .. _.. ,- .-.m r tl\ . "1 ,_ " 4 .. 3, yh _,_ _, , xy^vy t. it v ?415, r e k ,!}{% ," 5" t 5 " t tin " Y' r' _ M1 ' lX'fy , , , n _ M1y i c . c r' fr'+ttFdip i:+ .atr.s.a:! 'es'xCtiY¢C . . .wiuH'wy.at5: u.. -. +' _ ',3'.1G page: 44-45[View Page 44-45] I , - , S ' 0ii 4 I .'. L GREENS. 44 THE ROYA the parties.should partake of refreshment, hav- ing exhausted their little stock of food the night previous. 'Their steps had been hurried, their precautions to elude pursuit many, and no time had been allowed for sleep. * Pale Cloud had borne up under the hardships of the way, with inimitable courage and pa- tience ; but Montour could not endure to see her growing faint and weak for want of nourish- ment ; therefore bidding the scout proceed to- wa, the cavern, which could not then be at a great distance, he directed his footsteps to a well- known .ot where deer were wont to abound. Game, in those days, -was abundant in the Pokbno mountain ranges, and Montour soon discovei-ed a fat doe'browsing the tender buds of a birch. 'It happened, however, unfortunately, ths he had approached the animal on the wind- ward side, and the breeze carried to itsensitive nostrils sure knowledge of his proximity Throw- ing up its white bushy tail, it started off upon the run, and though the distance was consider- able and every moment increasing, and the chances of success rendered still less by its mo- tion, Montour fired, butevidently without effect. While loading his rifle, a warrior of the Onei- da tribe stepped from behind a tree not two yards distant, with his gun cocked and present- ed at our ,'hero's breast. Roland would have resisted, even as -much as-the native had advan- tage, had not a furtive-glance around him re- vealed other dusky forms. You no stand still, I fire I" said the Oneida, for there were but few of the Indians who had. not some knowledge of the English tongue.- "You light, I shoot" Resistance seemed utterly useless, and with a feeling of dread Montour surrendered himself to captivity ; for so well he knew the -usages -of savage warfare that he was- fully aware of the dangers before him as a prisoner to the Oneidas. With a sigh of regret, he saw the chief of the party examining his excellent rifle with the ob- vious intention of de$6ting it to his own use. Nor were his'reflections made of a more happy kind, when they proceeded to bind his hands with atrips'of- green, undressed deerskin, so tightly that his wrist -speedily commenced swell- ing, giving.him much pain. "Dog of a Pale Face ! you shall no longer walk these woods tp be aspy upon the Iroquois I" exclaimed the Oneida chief.- S I -am a Delaware,"said Montour. ".The Delawards nre women !" retorted the Oneida, who was called by the unpronounceable name of Gi-en-gwa-tah, which signifies He-who- goes-inthe-smoke. "They are women no longer ; , they have washed away the reproach in the blood of the Shawanese and the Mengwe," said Montour. - "Itis a reproach they can never wash away, though they should open a stream of blood as large as the Busquehanna," returned the chief, contemptuously.. . " The Delawares are bold and magnanimous, and the Mengwe (the Sii Nations are sometimes called) are .artful and false. They do not deal openly like men, but deceive with a smooth tongue like a gossiping squaw;'and the Lenni ,Lenapes are ashamed of them," returned Roland. "You talk bravely for one whose skin is al- most white," rejoined the chief, ironically. "I do not care for color-I have -regard for deeds. Go and ask the Mohawk if we acted like women when we followed their trail, hur- prised them at night, and took away their cap-- tive," resumed Roland. " They were not Oneidas," said the chief. "No, but braver men." The warrior turned upon Montour an angry- glance, and motioned him to 'walk faster. Some persons may possibly-question Roland's policy in thus bearding his enemies while in their power, and query whether language more con- ciliatory would not have tended to soften the sternness of captivity;- but it is a fact well-known that the savages were wont to respect a bold, stout-hearted and even audacious captive, more than -a weak, cowardly and repining one ; and Montour doubtless understood well the character of those with whom he was dealing, and governed himself accordingly. The exhibition of pusilla- nimity instantly reduces the consideration of a savage for his prisoners and is the signal to treat himtwith every species =of insult. The Oneidas directed their course -toward the upper'tributaries of the Susquehanna, where the forces of Butler and-the .allied nations were en- camped. Like most'of the scouting parties and predatory hands thrown-out by the main body, they were few in number, consisting of but seven -braves,4hree-of whon'had nuar beenon the war-path b ore. H a ig heard of -the many bold sctiboMI bardi4heir prisoner, they had left the sig ams'of tlseir'eople, reaolvcd to slay oro capture one or both of then before their return.- The .three'ho -had never before . I " THE ROYAL GREENS. trodden the war-path. had made a 'vow-'not to wash the paint from their faces until they had taken a scalp or a prisoner ; and now we-e highly elated at their success, as fortune had favored their designs in a particular manner. As they defiled rapidly through the forest, 'with Montour in their midst, their hearts were elated with savage joy, and they longed for the moment when the torture and the death-dance should-finish their triumph and complete their vengeance. After proceeding a couple of hours, the Oneida leader stopped and examined the heavens through a vista in the trees. "My brother of the Iroquois wishes to lay his course direct to the.camp," said Montour, with ' a smile. "And now," he added, "I will tell him which way to go, for I perceive that his eyes are not sharp, and he reads but poorly the language of the north star. My face," continued Roland, changing his-position, " is now toward the great lodge of the Oneidas." The' Oneida hesitated to reply, knowing that his prisoner was right, and manifested some un- easiness lest he should fall in the estimation of his warriors. "I know," he said at length "the voice of the north star, for I have listened to its talk many years, and I will not ask a boy to tell me what it says about the trail of the Oneidas." " I have told you the way, cousin-do not keep me waiting, for I am impatient to see the sickly faces of the people whom you call war- riors, but who fight like old women hoeing corn," added Montour. The leader frowned, the three neophyte war- riors clutched their hatchets angrily, and looked wistfully to their chief, for a signal to slay the insulter of their nation ; but the Oneida folded his arms and smiled grimly. 'We will see how he will bear himself when the Oneidas light the fire of torture, and apply the yellow pine splinters to his white flesh !" he exclaimed, recovering his wonted dignity of demeanor. - Just before daylight they halted to rest. The captive and the warriors laid down upon the ground, but the leader slept with his back to a * tree to prevent surprise. Once when Montour lifted his head to look about him to see if there was any chanceof escape, he fancied he saw a face peering cautiously through a thicket of furzi; but the object passed so quickly from his sight that he could not well determine whether I he had been deceived by some deceptive shadow or intervening bush, or whether he had indeedd caught a momentary glimpse of a'human visage. He turned many a furtive: yet - anxious glance toward the spot but saw' nothing to confirm his first - impression.: The darkness soon after fell thicker, and the clump of bushes was hidden from his view. He sank into a troubled sleep, and dreamed of Dunbar .and his long 'rifle, and saw him on the trail resolved to 'effect his rescue, or perish in the desperate endeavor. -What a goodly sight it was (and how it cheered hin even when he awoke) to see'he scout Ike the track of the Oneidas, like a hound keen of scent and sure of foot, never flagging; never despair- ing, ever sanguine, 'ever true to his better im- pulses, ever mindful of his friendship. He opened his eyes and saw the watchful chief leaning against the tree, and heard the heavy respirations of the braves. The morning had dawned. The sleepers were aroused, some dried venison was eaten in haste, and the march resumed. During the day the circumstance of his having seen a face, or more properly of his having fan- cied that he had seen one, was often thought of, and he' cast searching glances behind him and into the surrounding woods when he could 'do so without exciting the attention of his captors. On one occasion the chief marked the quick, sharp look which he threw into the forest, 'and seemed to fathom his thoughts. "Now-the Pale Face begins to act the womab. Now his white heart begins to tremble, and he looks about for help, but," he added, exultingly, " who can follow the trail of the Oneidas " "Yes," repeated his grim followers, ' who can follow the trail of the -Oneidas ?" and they glanced triumphantly at the prisoner and each other., "I know of one who can track them with his eyes shut," replied Montour. " Speak his name," said the chief. " He is called the scout of the Susquehanna," returned the prisoner. "I have heard of him, and am going to take h scalp," rejoined one of the braves. A young boy, who has never been on the war-path, should be silent and listen to the talk of chiefs and warriors," returned Roland, most sarcastically. " It is very wisely said," added the chief, and the young brave hung his head with shame. U A I ®rl, f rff Y 1 1 page: 46-47[View Page 46-47] . THE ROYAL GREENS. On the ensuing night more time was taken of Roland, but a second glance dispelled that for rest, for having travelled rapidly, the Oneidas thought. believed that they were now beyond pursuit. While'he was watching this singular prelen- Besides, they,,were well acquainted with the tation, the entire figure of the owner of the face condition of Wyoming, and knew there were hut moved from the range of the trees and stood few persons there dispose to follow a trail a revealed. Seeing that he was perceived by our great way, for a single prisoner, except Dunbar hero, he made signs for him to be silent, and the scout,; and of his whereabouts they were at advancing with soft steps, "cut his bands with a that time ignorant. knife. To his surprise Montour recognized the* When Montour had eaten the stinted portion stranger, lawson, whose appearance on several thz was given him, and again stretched his other occasions had excited his curiosity so tired and, aching limbs upon the earth, he was much. so sleep' that he did not long remain awake to What now was to be done ? The Oneidas think dithe fancies of the previous night. It still slumbered with their arms beside them, and was midnight before. he awoke. He looked our hero stood over his captors with free limbs. around at first almost mechanically,.then more Slowly he approached the chief, and gently consciously, and with something like a fixed took the gun from his relaxed grasp-his own purpose in view. The Oneida chief, no longer rifle-and then with eque i caution and success watchful, slept at his post-or rather with his assisted to deprive the six braves of their wea-. back to a tree-while his braves stillfless vigi- pons. This daring feat accomplished, they lant, slumbered more heavily upon the ground in walked lightly away, quiet unconsciousness. "Now for the Susquehanna," said Lawson, Montour's limbs were bound, but not in a when they had gone a few rods. manner to hinder him from rising to a sitting "It-is not far distant as you perceive by its position. The idea of, escape was of course up- murmur," replied Montour. They quickened permost in his mind. He again -recalled the their steps and in a few minutes reached the incident of the previous night, and wondered if river. it had the least foundation in reality ; and at the " There's a canoe concealed here somewhere," very instant while this query was running through said Lawson. "Look in yonder growth of his brain, the identical circumstance had a vivid alders." and liflike recurrence-so vivid and so life-like, Roland didsas directed, found the birchen ves- that there no longer remained any doubt of its sel and launched it. 'The guns whichwere taken genuineness. He saw indeed a human face from the Oneidas,- were then placed therein; looking from behind an oak, examining the and Lawson and ourhero stepped in and grasp. sleeping forms. That it was the visage of the ing the paddles, sent the fairy shell down the scout was the first and most natural conclusion river with the velocity of.a race horse. " R NETTHER of the parties spoke for some time, but plied the paddles in silence; but while they were thus gliding swiftly down the fair Susque. hanna, Montour found time to think of his happy escape and his strange deliverer. Had the scout himself followed the trail and effected his rescue, the event would have awakened no surprise ; but that he should owe his liberation to one who might properly be considered a stran- ger, was an incident well calculated to excite astonishment. There were many things to betaken into con- sideration, relating to the whole affair, that he could not well understand. He wished to know how he-Lawson-had become acquainted with the fact of his capture, and where or how he had learned the difficult feat of tracing an Indian trail; but as he was evidently not disposed to be communicative, he did not press the subject upon his attention. He pictured to himself the disappointment of the Oneidas, when awaking from their profound slumbers, they.should .dis. cger the escape of their prisoner, and the pecu- liar circumstances attending the same--the less of their fire-arms. The reader must have seen by the account given of that achievement, that it would have been very easy for Lawson and our hero to have slain the natives on the spot; ).ut feelings of humanity, coupled with the wish to prove to the chief and his warriors that they were not the most cunning people to be found and the hard- est to circumvent, had induced them to take the course they had. Montour was glad that Law- son had determined upon such a procedure, for he was tired of beholding the shedding of blood, and of participating in such transactions, when any other course could be pursued with safety. Another consideration served to ,influence them to mercy; the Oneidas, though belonging to the Iroquois confederacy, were somewhat divided in their sentiments respecting the policy of making war upon the whites ; and some of them had already avowed their determination to remain neutral, while a very few were inclined to take sides with the settlers against their Eng- lish and tory enemies. The chief whomn we have named as the leader of the little war-party, was in fact a Seneca; but to strengthen the waning faith of the Oneidas, - he professed a great friendship for them. He was to a certain extent successful; and obtained considerable influence over the minds of a few young braves who thirsted for renown. Those into whose hands Montour had . fallen, were nothing more than a scouting party, led by the wily Seneca, who wished, by involving them in some midnight onset in which some atrocious : y i rte! " z, ,r f 'C } +' J 1 rC ti ' _ / , ;% i CHAPTERi1X. A RENCONTRE. 46 page: 48-49[View Page 48-49] '7-" 48 THE ROYA deed should be committed, to fully implicate the Oneidas, and identify them with the sanguinary plots of the Six Nations. When it should be known to the settlements on the Susquehanna, that the Oneidas had gone on the war-path, and taken scalps or acted as spies, they would cease to tamper with them and reckon them as others of the Iroquois league. It was thus that the politic Seneca reasoned, and by talking smoothly to his "cousins," produced the infpression that he gloried in calling himself an Oneida; for said he, "A, great many moons ago the Senecas and Oneidas were but one peo- ple, dwelt in the same country, hunted in the same woods, and went on the war-path together; while their women planted the Indian corn side by side, and took down and set up the lodges like sisters.'3 Thus it will be perceived that it would have been highly impolitic for Lawson and Montour to have slain this little party of Oneidas, whose actions had been so much stimulated by the cunning discourses of the -Seneca ; while the latter, in turn, had been encouraged and set on by Colonel Butler, who-was anxious to involve the Oneidas in the war to such an extent that they could not withdraw from the league. The result-of the policypursued by our hero and the stranger, will be seen as we proceed with our story. They afterwardlearned, that with the first faint streaks of daylight, 'the-warriors awoke, and springing up from their conch of leaves, missed their prisoner. They glanced at each other in alarm, and then looked for their guns. Shame and anger struggled in their untutored breasts with terrible power, when they discover- ed the trick that had been played upon them. With their faces fixed upon the ground, no one cared to speak. They knew that they had been fully in the reach of the white man's ven- geence, and doubted not that hehad spared them in very contempt for their weakness and want of skill, and not through feelings of mercy. This idea seemed to increase their confusion, and made them think that they cut .a contemptible figure as warribra*. They sat down, smoked in mournful silence, and tried to think of means of retrieving their tarnished honor. What would their people sad of them when they reached home without scajps; prisoners, or arms" Would they not be met with contempt, and jeered at by those who had trodden the war-path successfully ? Such were L GREENS. THE ROYAL GREENS. some 6f the reflections of the little party of na- tives, while our hero was passing rapidly down the river toward the valley. Suddenly Roland ceased to ply the"paddle, and fixed his eyes upon a clump of trees upon the bank. "What do- you see ?" asked Lawson. " Human figures,'t replied Montour. "Your eyes are sharp, young man," said the other. - " Constant watchfulness has made me quick of sight, although I cannot well claim any supe- riority over you in that respect, judging by the specimen which you have given of your skill in tracing a trail," rejoined Roland. "Ah, my young friend, I was once more skilled in woodcraft than at present; buta resi- dence of some years amid other scenes, has some- what lessened my ability to -detect a sign or level a rifle with accuracy. But keep a good watch of yonder growth of timber. Do you see anything now ?" "I do-men in green uniforms-let us hug the other shore-they are some of Butler's rangers." " Hold ! I see forms on-the other bank also" exclaimed Lawson. " Right, sir-I perceive them-dressed in green, too. The middle of the river, then, only remains to us." S" We may take the middle of the river, but we cannot pass yonder point in safety. We shall certainly be fired upon from both banks." Both quickly reversed their strokes; stopped the motion of the canoe; and forced it back sev- eral yards against the current by their energetic efforts. They now naturally queried what course it was most proper to pursue under the circum- stances. To go forward or backward would be attended with danger, for the designs of the to- ries were already sufficiently manifest. "There is but little time to -deliberate-we must act* with decision. What do you ,re- commend ?" asked Montour. " I cannot well answer that question. If we could ma ge to get ashore above them, we might r aps baffle pursuit," said Lawson. Immediately the head of the canoe was turned up stream and toward the bank. As soon as this movement was seen by the men on shore, they changed their position, those on- the left side 'running toward the -spot to which Montour was steering, -while thosetrpon the right ran to 49 get opposite the fugitives and lessen the distance it to his face with a quickness acquired only by between them as much as possible. long practice. One not familiar withsuch things Perceiving that the enemy had left the spot would not have believed that he had even seen which they were desirous-to pass, the direction the whole length of the barrel, much less the of the little vessel was again changed to itsfor- small delicate sights, before the hammer fell, suer and -original course, and every nerve was and the report went echoing amid the crags and strained to give, it a rapid motion. They re- defiles. ceived, as they expected, a scattering fire from The tory ranger uttered no cry, gave no sign both banks, but the distance was such that no of pain, and fell forward into the Susquehanna. injury was sustained by the parties at whom the " He is gone," said Lawson. " The long road shots were aimed. that has no end is all before him." " The Royal .eens must practise target " Take them alive, lads! - take them alive,, if shooting," said Montour to his companion. possible !" shouted a voice from the shore, which " Yes, there is heed ; but you must remember Montour recognized as that of Sergeant Norton, that the distance is considerable, and the gliding whose name on - another occasion has been motion of our fairy bark necessarily adds to the mentioned. difficulty of sending a bullet to its destined mark. "Into the water; some six or eight of you, Ah! that struck near us ; let us not congratu- down there, and bring the rascals ashore, at all late ourselves too soon. There is yet time hazards 1" he added. enough to do us harm." . It now appeared that the party was some- "I can form no very accurate idea of their what larger than they had imagined it to be, numbers," observed Roland. - .- . and that several still remained below the bend, -" I should think there might be a dozen of where (they afterward learned) they had been them in, all. They are probably two small par- breakfasting in tvko squalls, at the time their ap- ties sent out by Butler to reconnoitre along the proach had been discovered. Notwithstanding banks, and so down to the valley, or asnear it as the order to swim off to the canoe was far from they deem it prudent to go," returned Lawson. an agreeable one to the rangers, some half a thoughtfully. dozen threw off their green frocks and obeyed Look yonder, Mr. Lawson, toward the sum- it. mit of that crag on our left, and tell me if you " They think shooting would be too merciful see any object there'?" said Montour with a for us," said Lawson. start of surprise. Instantly the eyes of the " They wish to see us hanged," returned Mon- stranger turned toward the spot designated. tour, " but some of those poor fellows that are "I perceive, indistinctly, through the leafy now floundering in the water, will never live to foliage of a bush, the figure of a tall man," an- see that operation. Ah, look, my friend ! there swered Lawson. is a pleasant sight for us-Dunbar and the Dela- "A noble heart beats in that stalwort form; it ware are moving this way. It will not be long is Dunbar, the scout of the Susquehanna. And before we shall hear the voice of that deadly wea- see ! near him arises another figure-a red man," pon that he grasps in his right hand." added Montour, still more dexterously using his " Do you suppose he really.recognized the re- paddle. port of your rifle ?" added Lawson, hurriedly, "The native looks like a Delaware." as he placed the, guns they had taken from the "It is Castanego, the chief of the Lenni Len- Oneidas in such a way that they could be con- apes. They are on the trail of the Oneidas, veniently used. They-see our enemies, and are trying to discover "He is so familiar with its tones that he knows- the cause of to nuch running and firing. Dun- them as well at he does my own. He.is advanc- bar knows the sound of my rifle-I will discharge ing cautiously and unseen, and -the quick-eyed it to atttaet his attention. By heavens ! there is 'Delaware is equally cunning. Here is work- a good mark-that fellow standing close to the 'let us attend to it." water, just below, waiting for us to pass. I By this time the most expert of the swimmers always shuider at the idea of slaying a human had gotten within a few yards of the canoe, but creature, but he must die." hesitated about coming nearer; and few persons Montour dropped the -paddle into the bottom there are who 'would not have evinced some re- of the birchen bark, caught his rifle and brought luctance about being the first to draw the fire of F# I', T page: 50-51[View Page 50-51] nP TI t f. rt t" F 31 " F t Vt kk R f' I t ! t l y " 1 1 4 I, 50 TIE ROYAL two experienced woodsmen, of whose skill they had already received some proof by the- fall of one of their comrades, from a point ten times as remote. They paused, and no doubt internally cursed the order that had sent them to meet their death ; for they were well aware that at least two of therp were likely to suffer before the men could be secured.. "Swim 'back !" said Montour, presenting his rifle at the nearest, " swim back, for as red as as you are with the blood of good men and true, I ljve' no desire to take advantage of your pre- sent exposedcondition." = "On, men, on ! his gun isn't loaded! I've watched-him ever since he fired it, and not a par- ticle of powder and never a ball has he put into it since 1" cried the sergeant from the-shore. "Don't spare them," said Lawson, in a low voice; "they are covered with crime, and crim- son with murders." The man who had been in advance fell back and suffered a bolder companion to take the lead. Lawson fired at him, he sank, arose again, and then his less daring friend supported him with 'his left hand and struck out for the shore. L GREENS. "Now's your time, boys !" shouted the ser- geant. " Both of their guns are empty." En- couraged by this assertion, the rangers made a fresh demonstration, but soon had cause to re- pent their rashness ; for 'they were met with rapid discharges, which not only extinguished their ardor but life itself in several instances, only three of the number who had taken to the water surviving to reach the shore, and two of those were severely wounded. Now it happened that the scout and the Dela- ware were on the same side Pthe river with the sergeant, and While the latter stood pouring forth all kinds of reproaches and imprecations upon his men, for what he had termed their coward- ice, a ball from Dunbar's rife entered his breast and stretched him dying upon the ground. Finding themselves attacked from another quar- ter, the remainder of the rangers fled after direct- ing three or four ineffectual fires at the canoe, leaving our friends the occupants of the field. With a feeling of sincere regret that human passions should bring men into such antago- nistic relations, Montour put the head, of the light canoe toward the shore, where the Dela- ware and the scout were calmly standing. CHAPTER X* EVENTS AT WYOMING. Tin sun of the second day of July arose bamly and bright, greeting fair Wyoming as pleasantly and cheerfully as it had ever in the past. -Ellen Devron and ilvira Hudson, at -a very early hour, before the glistening dew had dled from the grass, walked toward' the spot wlee the home of the former had once been, but; of which only w few blackened logs remained. Their kind neighbors had talked of building another cabin near the site of the old one, and some timber had already been drawn there for that object. As they were slowly proceeding in the.direction of the desolated dwelling, they saw Martin Secord approaching . them with hasty steps, and a face giving unequivocal evidences of excitement., The maidens did not hail his appearance with smiles, nor did his manner-augir an interview of a very pleasing nature. "I have come, young ladies,".he said, bow- ing stiffly,- "to do you :an important service. Danger is, close at hand, and:4f you wish- for security, you will hasten to Fort Wintermoot ' " We give the preference to Fort Forty," re- turned Elvira- " Fort Forty will not do 1" exclaimed Mar- I tell you-tiere is safety only in Winter- moot's Fort.'' "Is the danger pressing 1" inquired Ellen. " So pressing that the sooner young maidens like you are where I have said, the better." "Let us go back to the cabin, then, and spread - the alarm; there are others who need a place of o3 security. We are not the only maidens in the valley," said Miss Hudson, fixing a penetrating look upon Martin. "Be not so foolish !" cried the latter, quickly and -energetically. "These friendly words of warning are meant for you alone. Come, fol- low me, if you value safety or even life, for Wyo. ming is near the hour of its-" "What would you say ?" exclaimed Ellen, anxiously. "That this valley is near the hour of that bloody baptism of which I spoke sometime ago," said another voice, and immediately Lanaway stepped from the thicket near them. "I cannot and will not comprehend your meaning. If there is indeed a terrible calamity, such as war sometimes brings; hanging over Wyoming, then in gentle pity's - nAme' come with us' and"sound your warnings in the ears of those who'will make speedy preparation 'to pro- vide for the general good as much as conditions will admit. Why do you speak these words of mystery to young-maidens only V" iThis is no time for explanasons--we cannot 0 Ii 'I I! ,o Y, x ' ' }}} 4:5' n..: ;.a; 'xo W A. kl page: 52-53[View Page 52-53] RXll1OYAL GREENS. 77 7:PI w. 4. 'l 52 however, *as not discouraged, but resolved to do all he could to defend the place, and protect the many helpless ones to be Ibund in the val- ley. In a particular manner did he think of Ellefi Devron, and he mentally and solemnly pledged himself to-save her froen the fury of the merciless foe, even at the sacrifice of life itself ; so deep. and lasting was the impression which her beauty had made on a heart naturally alive to an appreciation of the beautiful, and the claims of innocence. Many persons think deeply and much, without being suspected of anything of the kind; and1 Montour was one of that-character. Since the first moment he had looked upon the pretty face of Ellen, her- image had been impressed upon his mind in such vivid colors that it could not E be effated without a greater effort than he was I disposed to make. There were seasons when her attempted to think less of one whom he really believed would never sustain a nearer and dear- I er relation than that she then sustained. Exer- tions of this nature were always attended with an oppressive weight of sadness, which depress-v ed his spirits to such a degree that nothing save s the excitement of the trail and the dangers of i some difficult achievenwnt could entIrelyt obliterate.- .c To have looked upon him while threading the a forest with Dunbar, and daring the perils of partizan malice-and Indian cunning, few would t have imagined the fair idea of Ellen was pictured c in his soul as in a clear and perfect mirror. Who e maiy say how much this soft reflection of the .v maiden nerved'his arm, and how much strength it it gave to his limbs when he dogged the footsteps d of the common enemy ; or how much it stimu- s lated him to put forth those efforts (in conjunc- f tion with the scout) which the uninitiated might almost have deemed superhuman. We have w not said,,nor do we now assert, that our hero m was in love; we leave that matter to make itself cc apparent'in due time, whether it be so or other- d4 wise. It is not ours to anticipate ; for it is to be te understood that the reader has, the same chance w to draw conclusions that we have ; and we will ri not be so bold as to give ourself credit for more B sagacity than others having the same means of sp Judging- so It is impossible to fathom well the secret m woerkings ff the human heart, even when it has pr the capacity to reflect some of its emotions on sy the face and in the conduct. na While the "stern alarms of war " are rever- at 4 berating through the valley of Wyoming, we find it necessary to look at the movements of one who figures prominently-in-these chapters-.Dun. bar-honest, upright Dunbar-a man who loves the right because it agrees best with his noble nature--a person rough'in external seeming, but sensitive as a woman in all that pertains to the heart. We perceive him approaching a dwelling a few miles below Mr. Hudson's, 'with slow and thoughtful steps. Sometimes he pauses and passes his hand across his brow as if to render his ideas more lucid and quicken'his powers of perception. He is obviously at a loss in regard to some important matter, and not only per- plexed but also troubled, providing we take his expression as a true index of his feelings. With his rifle in the hollow of his flexed arm, he reaches the door and knocks. During the short interval that elapses before his modest summons is answered, his sun-burned visage gives fresh evidence of a mind much agi- tated. He hears a light step upon the floor within, and his.stout heart beats with rapid pul- ations. What magic is there in a footstep, that t can so affect one who is so venturesome on the rail, so daring where there is danger, so calm, ool and self-reliant when those very, qualities re necessary to secure success ? The door opens, and a female, of'perhaps wenty-two summers,' stands before him, who hanges color, is confused ; but instantly recov- ring her equanimity, bids our hero enter. And. while the first common-place greetings are being interchanged, we will take the (we hope) par- onable liberty of stealing a few inquisitive and scrutinizing glances at the young lady's form and features. Although she may have reached the age which re have named, -those years seem none too nany to develop a beauty like hers; for she is certainly blessed with what even the most pru- ent Quaker might safely call a "comely coun- nance." She is not gifted with that loveliness hich is merely physical, but that which is de- ved from a pure, truth-loving and natural soul. y the last adjective we mean that.she was not oiled by those artificial accomplishments that D often turn the minds of so many youthful aidens dwelling in cities. Her figure is of such oportions that it at once gives the idea of mmetry, and that without taxing the imagi- tion. But it is not her person that so much tracts attention as the eyes ; and the latter bor. ii ii 1444 N ' I, 416 page: 54-55[View Page 54-55] 54 'THE ROYAL GREENS. row all their soft, yet speaking eloquence, from the mind, whose fitting representatives they ap- pear to be. Ah, how much is the human face indebted to the eyes, and how much mischief have those orbs accomplished when placed be- neath the " fringed lids " of a-fair woman!, -Just hear the eye-stricken poet-lover pour forth his emotions in numbers of rare beauty : CLThe pearly lustre of the moon went out: Theenossy banks and the meandering paths, .The happy flowers and the repining trees,. Were seen no more : the very roses' odors Died in the arms of the adoring airs. All-all expired, save thee-save legs than thou: Save only the divine light in thine eyes- Save but the soul in thine uplifted eyes. I saw but them-they were the world to me. y sawbut them-saw only them for hours- Saw only them until the moon went down." The scot accepted the proffered seat, aid for a moment sat looking abstractedly at his rifle, which he had placed against the wall within reach. The pretty Quakeress (for such she was) relieved his embarrassment by asking in a soft and pleasing voice' which sounded wondrously musical to Dunbar's ears: - "What news bringest thou, friend David ?" The scout remained silent an instant,-and then replied : - " News that you will not be glad to hear, Miss Hammond." " That may well be said, for it has been long since we have heard aught save of wars and r' morse of wars." "Where is your father and William ?"' "They have gone forth to muster the men, to prepare for the defence of our ill-fated settle- ment ; although it is against their principles to draw the sword." ' "In these times, Miss Hammond, all men who love liberty, of whatever sect they may be, maty take arms, I reckon, in the defence of their homes and their rights," said the scout, casting a furtive glance at his comely companion. "I am fully of thy opinion, David, although once I thought differently. The simple fe of existence has to be kept with the sword;' for these enemies of ours have no mercy-pityneither young uor old-respect not gray hairs, nor soften at the sight of beauty in distress." , " I have come to tell you, Miss Hammond-" " Thou mayest call me Hester, David." . " To tell you that there will be a battle here to-morrow.". "A battle, sayest.thou I"' - "Ay, a great and decisive battle, as I may ,say," i. . "Friend David, thou art 'a man of sound judgment and of honest purpose, and- I desire that thou wilt tell me frankly what thy opinion is, of the result of the battle of which thou speakest ?" "Miss Hester, I will answer you with that bluntness that constitutes a part of my nateral disposition, as 'twere. It is my solemn belief that we 'shall be beaten in the fight of to-morro . Fort Wintermoot will be given up to the enemy this night, unless I can muster enough men to repulse the'advancing tories and Senecas.", " Wintermoot is false, then ?" "False as the great deceiver himself, as I may say !" " If thou sayest it, .1 can believe thee, friend David ; but thou wilt find few that are equally credulous." " I have heard, Miss Hammond, - that one of the Wintermoots was highly thought of here- -by your father and brother," added the scout, with evident effort. " I know to what thou dost refer, but perhaps thou art laboring under some delusion in the matter. It is true that he has at times been quite attentive here, but-I tiink I may assert that he has received no encouragement from me to- to lengthen his visits or make them more fre- quent," said Miss Hammond, looking steadily upon the floor, and exhibiting upon her 'hand- some features something 'like a well defined blush. "I am glad for your sake that the friendship is no more intimate, for you will hear that of him and hisbrothers, before twenty-four hours, that will make them cheeks of yours grow pale with terror and indignation. If there is anyplace of safety that you know of, you had better seek it by all means before the sun of to-morrow rises. " Thou mockest me, friend David. I know of no place where the malignity sd cunning of our foes cannot reach me !" she returned with a sigh. "I know it well, Miss Hester, and therefore I came over to tell you that if the battle goes against us to-morrow, if I survive the fight, I will conse here to save you, although I should have to cut my way through the serried raniks of ourvictors, or run through a river of fire, to reach you." The scout had hitherto spoken in a low and quiet manner, but now he raised his voice and THE ROYAL GREENS.. spoke with much vehemence. Miss Hammond " I beg your pardon, Miss Hester. I k seemed much affected by his last remark, and thatyou wouldn't willingly wound the feeling's of answered with a warmth that must have been any one, however rough and unpolished he gratifying to his sensitive heart. 'happen to be in his mays. But I wished to ay "fMost willingly shall I accept thy protection, that if things take a bad turn, and .your father iMit o pchased avidDunt toohe and brother shouldn't be able to protect you, "Miss Hammond, David Dunbar is not the ]111 come to you if there's enough of life in me to man to ask an exorbitant price for his services, do so." especially of a woman," returned the scout, "Friend David, I a sure that I eel very mournfully, and evidently somewhat hurt at the grateful." ' supposed meaning of theyon lady. -"And tyoungaIam sure that there never was a human Tou bast mistaken my meaning, -Dvi bi'" .ho st ike n ang,'David," be more welcome I" said the scout, emphati. rshe answered, quickly, laying her hand on Dun- cally, not daring to raise his humid eyes to bar's arm. "I simply intended to be underdhthose brightly beautifully ones that were beams 'stood to say that I should humbly and gratefully ing on him so kindly, and speaking to himin the accept the safeguard of thy arm, if I could with yeloquentlagu spe nguah e s Out. posing thee to too nuch danger." oun aguage' of the soul-a language so -m voiceless here on earth that it can never be inter- preted by the lips. Iif page: 56-57[View Page 56-57] TifE ROYAL GREENS. 57 'inZ Q f ENE f. , Wrt did not honest tbunbar lift his gafe n goe=as lyng au body and soul are fgeti from the white, sanded floor and see ivha't he till the lateral breath and strength which God might have seen pictured on the gentle face has giten me h*e beef conquered by the hail that was turned timoidly. tpon himI Why did of death '- he not look up, if but for a single instant, and Farther speech *as preefeted bb a Barg meet the world of sweet rmeaning that reposed ifr knocking. Hester panted a iaomen to collect tihe dark eyes of Hester ?' herself, aid then opened the door. Wintormoot; Ah, dull David! his unpesuming eyes did ohH ststd oe thr steps, said: not wander farther than the tip of the little ft i "How do you do,htd ester7" and entered= that just peeped from beneath the homie-made leaving his cofipanisas outside., e *as quite skirt- =home-made, bat reterlheless neat and intto the rebr and the dor was sidt, before hd becoming. pefceted Vunbar ; ,and it was apparent to both " I must g6/' he said, at length, after an a*k- the latter and Miss llatam6nd that the recognif ward pause. tion was not a piedaant oh'e. He nodded to the' "Not quite 'yet, David. I hear some one scout and took a sett neaf th'e windo*. coming ; perhaps it is father, or Williar," re- That the presented of #inbdr embarrassed hint plied Hester, going to the window. war obvious. lie, however, made a faint attempt "What do you see ?" inquired the scout. to disguise his chagrin and made a fet com-' " Sever _ person, and Wintetmoot is among mon-place retharks with a very bad grace, which, them." were scarcely noticed by the scent. Finding "Shall I go or stay ?"v asked Danbat. .that or worthy friend hadno intention 4f going; "Stay, it you have any friendship for me," he considered the best way of atpshiching th answered the rsaiden, hurriedly. subject uppermnost in his mind yfor it could not " God knows how much of that I have!' he escape the pebtraifon of Hester that he had' da exclaimed. particular purpose in flew. "I, fear these wren *ho are ctozring--I feel' "I called in to Speak go'rie words to'you fI S - that sorte tri _ is before mt'; but let what will confidential Way," he said, at length. come of it, I rely on thee, )avid." "I am rdady to lisen to thee," replied thW " You may rely on me as, far as mortal power young ladfy. What I would say is for your ear.alone." "Mr. Dunbar is a particular friend, and thee need not fear to speak freely in his hearing," added Miss Hammond. "What I have to communicate is very im- portant, and concerns you only," was the re- joinder. "I wait to hear thee speak, sir," was the quiet response. "Mr. Dunbar," said Wintermoot, desperately, I wish to confer a few moments with Miss Ham- mond on important and strictly private matters ; will, you oblige me by leaving the room ?" "The instant Miss Hammond desires me to go, I will do so without delay," the scout replied. The face and brow of Wintermoot flushed with anger, and turning to the maiden, he said, in a lower tone of voice: Miss Hammond, I came here out of pure regard to you to do you a service. I have dis- covered that it will be no longer safe for you to remain you." , "Where would thee recommend me to go ?" " Up to our stockade, where you will find several young ladies of your acquaintance, Ellen Devron and Elvira Hudson among the number." have heard that Fort Forty is the strong-il s fate lcso eec ntevle. est ofathe pa of defence in th vley." "Let me say to you," added, Wintermoot in a whisper, " that the fort that bear's my father's name is the"only place of safety in Wyoming." "When my friends return, I will not fail to ask their advice, for I cannot think of acting without their consent." " "You must decide quickly ; while you* are deliberating this chance of safety may pass," said Wintermoot, earnestly.. "As I have said, I will consult my friends." " Miss Hammond-you must go now ; I have come on purpose to attend you to the fort." . I decline'going with thee." If you have any friendship for me-" " Nay, I have but little friendship for thee." Wintermoot seemedutterly confounded by the calm avowal of the maiden. "And why is your friendship . for me so Might ?" he asked, coloring with vexation. "I will tell thee frankly; because thou art false to thy country, and leagued with the ene- mies of peace and liberty," said Miss Hammond, -t ormly-.-e By heavens, this is your work.!" exclaimed Wintermoot, starting to his feet and advancing toward Dunbar with his eyes flashing fury. " I have never yet called you a Tory to your face (although I have given some hints that couldn't well be mistaken), but now I call you as villanous a tory as ever conspired agin an honest man, fired a dwelling, or killed a neighbor in cool blood i".said the scout, without betraying the least agitation. " Spying, lying, scouting scoundrels" ex- claimed Wintermoot, fiercely. Dunbar arose from his seat, and without a word doubled his fist and knocked the torydown; then seizing him by the collar, dragged him to the door and thrust him out. This was done so quickly that.Miss Hammond scarcely knew what was transpiring until she heard the door close, and the bolt that secured it move into its place. "Pardos me, Miss Hester, for doing such a thing in your presence, but I couldn't listen to his talk any longer. *He is such a traitor that I have no feeling's in common with him, as 'twero." " I don't reproach thee, David; I only fear that he will do thee mischief before he departs. I will look from the window and observe their movements." "What are they doing, Hester?" " They are giving Wintermoot a drink from a canteen. Verily, he seems much affected' by the blow thou didst deal him. Now they are talking hurriedly' and- energetically. -I think they meditate a deed of wickedness; they hav' produced a strong cord, and-" "And what ?" "'They have fastened it to a branch of the red oak in front of the house. In heaven's name, David, what does it mean ?" " No matter, Hester, what it means, do not let it trouble you. I may say that I'm a host, as 'twere, and don't fear no half-dozen royalists in the country.' " They willtake thyfe ; is there no way of escape 6" she exclaimed. "1I don't think I shall die in that sort of way, though there's no tellin' what may happen to one in the world, it's so full of changes ; but I've alers had a notion that I should give up things of an airthly natur either on the field of battle or on the trail. Yes, that's the way I hope to leave this sublunary state." " My strength and courage fail me-I shalt faint-I shall die with horror 1" cried the maiden, covering her face with her bands. 11 .-I page: 58-59[View Page 58-59] 59 THE RYAGREJNS.THE ROYAL GREENS. " Nay, Miss Hester, don't let it worry you and bar sprang into the narrow entry and again gite you pain, as werer, for one life isn't much warned them to go away, but without producing, in these times,,and an honest man aint never any effect upon those whom he was addressing, afeared to meet his death, in a'good cause,. when other than to stimulate their efforts. 'his time comes.", . Had the dwellings of those unquiet -times been "1Do not speak of such a possibility. I tell' constructed according to modern architecture thee the thought makes, me shiver with terror. the work of beating down a door and forcing an David, they are preparing to force the door." .entrance would have been a task easily accom- "Fear not-not a hair of thy innocent head plished ; but such was not the case. The cabins shall be harmed." were built of. heavy logs sometimessquared by " Think of thyselfr-not of me ' added Hester, the axe, and often fitted into the fabric without in faltering accents. . s'uch labor. Many a dwelling was in all essen- - "Be calm-do you not see is-and these, tials a miniature block-house, quite well pre- too ?" said the scout, pointing to his rifle and a pared to withstand a siege, and to ward off the brace of pistols hitherto concealed, beneath his sudden onsets of prowling savages, or predatory hunting frock. parties of tories. The doors were made-of solid . Instantly a gleam of hope irradiated the face and heavy material, and the fastenings within of Hester. She sprang toa closet and took from were so adjusted as to be made available at a the same a small pair of weapons similar to those moment's notice, and to be capable of resisting concealed beneath Dunbar's coat. a very vigorous assault. "Little execution will they do in your white Had not this been the case, a few blows of hands," said the scout, with a smile. the axe in the-determined hand of Wintermoot, Hester laid the pistols upon the table, looked would have given the tories flee access- to the at them amoment as if conscious of her inability cabin ; hut as it was, considerable labor was re- to use them properly, and then taking themitp quired to secure that object., agaiu,;held them more resolutely than before.- Admonishing Hester to be of good cheer, the Dunbar stepped to the window, but thesin- scout kept his position in the entry, waiting until stunt he appear there, b musket-ball shivered a the first opening which Wintermeotemight 'nake pane of glass and passed very near his person. should give him an opportunity to use his weap- " Come out! come out! or we will beat the one. While he was thus silently biding his door down !" shouted Winterinoot. time, it is probable that some part of his person "Go away," cried the scout, "or mischief will was seen through a crevice, for a cry from Miss befall you. I'm armed, and it wont take no Hammond warned him that danger was mena- great provocation to induce me to send a rifle- cing him from another .directioh. A single step ball through one or more of ye, as 'twere." across the threshold, explained the meaning of While Dunbar was giving this friendly warn- -theyoung lady's alarm ; two of the tories were ing, some one from without discharged a pistol about to eater through a window. Dunbar's at random, and the leaden ,messenger striking first'act was to throw himself between Hester the sash, glanced toward the spot where Miss and the assailants; for he"feared that an ill-, Hammond was-standing, perforating thesleeve directed bullet from 'the muskets which they of her dress, and slightly wounding her arm. carried might do her harm. It was now that the The scout sprang toward- her, and asked (white highgtalities of the cout's courage began to his cheeks assumed an unwonted paleness) if she be exhibited. was hurt, and received the welcome answer that "Down! !back, Ibols !" he cried. " Why do she:was not. ye tempt me to slay you ! Well, there is for Was it not somewhat singular that the man you, if you will have it so, though I've spared whom-no danger cold daant, and who never you hitherto because you are feller-eretut s." tretabled for his own; safety, should, suddenly Dunbar's pistols flashed, and the men 'disap, display a pallid face when the pistol bullet -pass- peared from the window. ed so near the person of the young wontan ? - Without .pausing to ascertain how much; mis- Before the scout's hardy visage had recovered chief .he bead done} he sprang into the entry. its'wonted ruddiness, heavy blows upon the cabin again just in tiine, to see the blade of the axe doer admonished those within, that the royal- forced through the door by a powerful blow - ists were heating it down with an axe. Dun- Re had just raised his rifle to fire through the ; F: ' r . 1: Y "1 aJ 4 i +5 THE ROYAL GREENS. aperture, when Hester laid her hand on his arm, "Thou hast acted the hypocrite well, but -saying, "Take these !" at the same time pre- there-are- eyes thou didst not deceive. I feared seating the pistols which she had taken from the thee from the first."a closet. The scout caught them quickly, and "Much it grieves me, Hester Hammond, that more quickly the'ontents of one of them passed I have failed to please you. You know not the through the opening. The report was answered depths of that-friendship which I feel for you. I by a groan and a muttered curse. would gladly save you from the evil that hangs "I warned them, Hester-you heard me warn over the misguided- people-of this fated valley. them! But you see that it has done no good- Go with me to the fort, and I swear to you upon anger has. blinded their eyes, and perverted my honor, that I will bear no malice in my heart their judgment." for what you have said this day." At that instant they heard one say "Let's burn " Talk not of thy honor, for thou art as desti- the house." tute of it, as a dead body of warmth. Go ; I "But the girl's in there," replied Wintermoot. would hear and see thee no, mor ." "Tell her to come out," continued the other.. "Are we to part thus? And are my hopes "And what if she refuses ?" he inquired. thus to fade and fall ?". " She'll be glad to come when she sees the "i Even so, and the sooner.thy thoughts tend fire creep over the roof, and knows that we're in 'in another direction, the better for thee and for earnest;" me. " We'll try it," returned Wintermoot. " This is very madness that possesses you, " Miss liammond," he added, raising his and makes you resist my well-meant offers to voice, "we've made up our minds to kill the re- shield you from the fiery storm of to-morrow." bel at all hazards, but we, wouldn't willingly " The storm of to-morrow will be boldly met, hurt a hair of your head, as you well know ; and perhaps its lightning and its thunders will therefore we ask you to come out to us, for we .be turned aside," added Hester. are going to burn the cabin." "Yes, that's very true," said the scout. Dunbar looked at his fair companion to ob- "False prophecy-false hope 1" exclaimed the tory'. serve what effect this proposal had upon her. "Perchance I may see you before the sun "You can easily go out by the window," he risesand sets again," resumed Dunbar, in a said, quietly. sisesiant toe. Hester's face flushed, and she cast a glance at sig haficant tone. Dunbar in which there were both reproach and "IHester. resolution. She then approached the window, Hester. and gave her answer as follows :" Look down t oward Naticoke and see i you can see any one, said Dunbar. " Whatever happens, I shall' remain where I Hester gazed a moment in the direction indi- am. Fire the dwelling, if you will, but know cated, and soon answered, that a man on horse- that I shall not leave it to claim protection from back was approaching. those against whose principles and deeds. my . "Is it one' that you know? Look at him whole nature revolts." sharply with your bright eyes, Miss Hester," "That's finely worded, young lady," said returned Dunbar. Wintermoot, with a sneer. " I think that he is a young man whom I have "How often hast thou visited beneath this seen with thee, friend David." humble roof in the guise of friendship, and how " Ware your handkerchief, my brave girlI" kindly hast thou been received by my father and " There is no need, for he comes this way and brother? ill dost thou requite their hospitality," -thy enemies are making ready to depart ; but said Hester. they are somewhat encumbered by their three "It's of no use to think of them things now. wounded comrades, ne of whom is unable to By-gones are by-gones, and always will be. The walk; they are placing him tipon a horse. Now time has come when I can show my colors with- they-are m ving away; thou art saved, friend out much fear. I'm true to the king, and false David." only to rebels. The secret's out, and I shan't"- As Miss .Hammont ceased speaking, she act the hypocrite any longer," answered' the tottered and would have fallen, had notDunbar tory. supported her to a seat, where she swooned k ' ate page: 60-61[View Page 60-61] i a t . , k jt a !t f t! c - { ; {; , , quite away, making the scout feel very awk- suffused even her neck and forehead with crim-- ward, for he had never seen a pretty maiden son. Montour glanced from one to the other, faint, and knew as much about the Greek lan- and read what Dunbar perceived was a secret so guage as he did concerning what was to be done profound that it was known only to himself. in such an emergency; therefore after placing And the young man's quick perception went her very tenderly in a large old fashioned easy- further even, and made a discovery which his chair, he stood and looked at her greatly alarm- friend would have given worlds to have known, ed, wondering what would come of it. Hearing He smiled, but did not strive to increase the con- the sound of hoofs close at the door, he hastened fusion of either party by that good-natured pleas- to open it. Montour entered, but he could ren- antry, which when employed out of season, der no assistance, for Miss Hammond had al- often embarrasses painfully the sensitive mind. ready begun to revive. While he contemplated the glowing countenance Opening her eyes, she looked vacantly around and fairy figure of Hester, he could not find it in her, as if endeavoring to recall more vividly his heart to reproach Dunbar for being touched the scene through which she had just passed. with her loveliness. He must indeed have had Meeting the half-averted gaze of the, scout, the a heart of iron (providing he had been thrown snowy paleness of her cheeks was quickly suc- much in her society) to have withstood the po, ceeded by a blush that overspread her fact, and tent power of her beauty. CHAPTER XII. THE NIGHT MARCH. ' * I BETWEEN the hours of twelve and one, on the ensuing night, a small party of men were moving silently up the Susquehanna. Among them might have -been seen, acting as leaders, Roland Montour, David Dunbar, Devron and Castanego the Delaware chief. The latter led twenty of his people, and some ten or -fifteen Oneidas, who had recently summoned courage to side with the defenders of Wyoming. All counted, whites and Indians, the party did not exceed seventy-five. Their object ,was to inter- cept the Royal Greens and Senecas, then de- scending the river to take possession of Fort Winternoot.- - Great exertions had been made by Montour and Dunbar, to raise a large body of Delawares in addition to the men of Wyoming ; but their efforts had been rewarded with but*indifferent success. The dwellers in the valley, as wehave previously stated, were 'not disposed to believe implicitly in the treachery of- the- Wintermoots and Lanaway ; and therefore did not feel. in- clined to engage in what they suspected miight be- after all but a silly and fruitless crusade by night, up the Susquehanna, to meet an imaginary foe. And so infatuated were many of the in- habitants, that they did-not, until the following day, yield credence to the rumor -that Colonel Butler and his Tory Rangers meditated -'an at- tack. It may be asked why Montour and the scout 'did not take some effectual measures to secure the persons of Wintermoot and Lanaway, , takd'possession of the fort, and thus stop the conspiracy.at once. . The reader will be kind enough to bear in mind, that the stockade ment tioned, was built with the .ostensible purpose of defending the valley, and b'y men professing to be its friends ; and as friends they were generally' considered. Taking this view of the case, it would have required a considerable force to arrest them, and a body of armed men neither Montour nor Dun- bar had at their command. Could they have mustered a sufficient company, and been ac- knowledged as military leaders by the same, their first step would have been to make them- selves masters of the fort; but as this was not 'the case, they took the only step that remained for their choice ;, for there were more persons willing to march up the river to see if the enemy were really approaching, and if so to 'resist their advance, than to be the gst to lay violent hands on men who had been hnd. still were, by the majority of the people, considered very good friends to the country and the patriot cause. Even now, as they moved-forward, there were many incredulous ones among them, who spoke softly to each other and shook their heads in a THE ROYAL GREENS. 60 } i 1 7i E 1 ;r ; , '~ ," I, 9 L - , ,' h page: 62-63[View Page 62-63] 62 THE ROYAL dubious way. Two or, three of the party took particular pains to encourage such feelings, and the low whisperings grew into audible mutter- ings as they passed slowly along. " I said from the beginning that this would be a wild goose chase 1" exclaimed one of the grumblers to the man who' was nearest him, whose name was Vanalstine. "And didn't I say so, too, neighbor ?" The person who had made the observation to which this was an answer, knew very well that Vanalstine had been the direct cause of his own discontented mutterings ; but he was ambitious to appear as wise as others who affected to know much that they had no knowledge of. "What's the use of going any farther ?" said another. ")But little good will come of it," added Vanalstine. " This young man Montour, and this Dunbar, take a great deal on their shoulders, I fancy. How comes it, friends, that they know so much *more than we do about the movements of But- ler ?" continued a fourth. "Yes, that's the very question that I want somebody to answer," said a fifth. "My good neighbors," resumed Vanalstine, " I have no confidence in these men. They are comparatively strangers among us (or the yohng- est is at least), and I cannot see,-for one, why they are entitled to our confidence."' "No talking' there, men, no talking ' 1" said Dunbar, coming up at that moment, and hearing the murmur of voices. " You see he takes a vast deal of authority on himself," added the one who had last spoken, as soon is the scout had passed on. " That's the natur of sich people," returned the man on his left. " I think," continued Vanalstine, " that some- thing might be done to put an end to this dis graceful march." "There are several of that opinion," was the immediate response of another grumbler. It was certain that the party was divided in sentiment, and that that unanimity without which success is never certain, and always doubtful, was an element that w wanting, "to a serious extent. All these unhappy divisions, that fatal feeling of security which pervaded so many minds, had been artfully induced by the royalists, who, living in their yery midst and seeing them every day, improved every opportunity to prop duce false impressions and to spread reports of " 4N sll- / I L GREENS. the pacific intentions of the, enemy, which they were aware 'would be instrumental in working their ruin, if accredited. Had these internal enemies openly avowed their true sentiments, the mischief would not have been wrought; but this they were far too politic to do ; so the in- habitants of the valley walked daily over a hid- den mine, which could be sprung at any moment. While this state of things existed, it was almost,. or quite, impossible to make any important movement in secrecy ; for it was not easy to know who to trust; and the reader will not be surprised to learn that there were unfriendly ones even among those 'who were following Montour and the scout, to meet the approaching rangers. The former paused ; and while watching the little army as it defiled along its winding way, querying whether they would fight when the hour of trial came, the Delaware glided to his side with a quick and noiseless step. At the same instant Montour heard the voices of the malcontents and prophets of evil, of whom-we have just spoken, and exclaimed in a low but stern tone ; ~ "Be silent, men--be silent I" The Delaware laughed derisively, but said' nothing. Roland turned a searching glance upon him and asked " What mean you, Castanego ?" "Scorn and AngerI" replied the Delaware. "And for what ?" continued the young man. " The folly and hollow-heartedness of these people !" retorted the Lenape. "My brother is wise in the workings of the hnman mind, and can read well the language of the face when the lips are silent. What have you seen or heard that disturbs you ?" "Did not my brother hear those voices- ?" said the Delaware, sharply. "Ieheard them."- " What did they sound like ?" Montour paused to reflect, and then replied : ." It strikes me that they were like the mutter- ed tones of discontent." "Let them go to the Iroquois, where- their hearts are. They are full of-lies, and are afraid of the,sound of battle. They are hissing their poisoned words in the ears of others, and soon your men will refuse to go on."~ . " I know that the Delaware has sharp eyes, and never sees 'things that are not ; therefore this must be looked to." THE ROYA " Walk near them and your own ears shall be opened to their bad talk ; and your own eyes shall see their hollow-heartedness." Montour followed the suggestion of the Dela- ware, and soon had proof of the truth of his assertions. Having satisfied himself on that point, he sought Diubar (who was among the foremost of the party, where his duty as leader would natu- rally place him), andcommunicated to him what he had discovered, and the influence which these doubtful friends were exerting upon the men. A halt was then ordered, and the scout, Devron, the Delaware, and our hero held a hurried coun- cil. In order that their' deliberations might be, of a private nature, they withdrew a few yards from the main body, anid were earnestly discuss- ing the subject, when the quick eyes of the Dela- ware perceived that there was considerable.com- motion among the men. " The false pale face is giving them a talk," he said, moodily, contracting his dark brow. "Vanalstine is haranguing them," added Devron. " Let us go and hear what he has to say," said Dunbar, and accordingly the parties ap- proached the scene they had just left, where the undisciplined soldiers were huddled together. round Vanalstine, listening to his speech. We will not attempt to repeat it word for word, bu4 merely give the purport of it. He assured them' that they had been deceived in regard to the intentions of Colonel John But- ler and the Six Nations-deceived, 'too, by the very men who were now pretending to lead them to meet.an enemy--an enemy who, happily, had no existence save in their, imaginations. He went on to say that they had patiently marched several miles without so much as venturing to speak for fear of alarming the ruthless invaders of Wyoming, and giving them notice of their approach. But what had come of it ? Nothing at all. They had as yet seen no enemies against which to direct their' arms ; and the probability .was, that they might wait-there a week with a similar result.. " Now," he added, with a grand flourish of his right hand, "the question is, shall we go home to our families, and retire to bed to re- fresh ourselves for the peaceful toils of to-mor- row, or shall we continue this silly march under the command of men who know as little about the intentions of Butler as we do ? For one he was in favor of the former course, unless they L GREENS. 63 preferred to kindle some large fires and pass the night on the spot." "Villain i" exclaimed. Montour.. "He is desirous to sacrifice these unsuspecting men, as a sort of propitiatory offering to the tories and savages." "Yes, that's it precisely," replied Danbar; "but if they refuse to follow us, they will soon receive a bitter lesson for their foolish obstinacy. You'd better try and reason with them, Mr. Montour; you understand talkin' better nor I do, for I aint remarkably bleA with the gift of gab, as 'twere." " I will remoistrate with them, though.I fear it will do little good,"-he answered, and'mount- ing a log thus addressed the men of Wyoming. " Neighbors and friends, I need not remind you that we are surrounded by pitiless foes, for the experience of the last few months must have made you as sensible-of this fact as I am, or any 'other person. We have certain knowledge that Butler with hls Tory Rangers, and a; large body of Senecas, are coming down the river. We have, furthermore, the best of reasons for believ- ingthat the stockade, known as Fort Winter- moot, will be betrayed into the hands of our enemies before the sun rises again. We call -upon you as men, and lovers of your country, to stand by us and' resist the advance of the enemy, as long as you can wield a weapon in defence of those you love, and who lool to you for protection. The man who'has just address- ed you, must be either a fool or a knave, for he counsels you to neglect your own safety and sleep; while the sleepless Senecas and merciless rangers are hanging upon your border, and per- haps even now within rifle range of where we stand. Follow his advice if you wish for cer' tain destruction; but before the red sun comes up again, you will deeply, ay, most painfully regret your folly." At this point in his speech, Montour felt him- self touched upon the shoulder, and perceived one whom he had not expected to see, beside him-.-Lawson. "Cease to reason with them," he said. "They are infatuated, and nothing short of the chastise- ment which they will soon receive, and which they richly merit, will suffice to bring them to their senses." " You've spoken my own sentiments exactly," said Dunbar, who stood near our hero and heard Lawson's remark. " The cunnin' of the tories has, so sprinkled dust in their eyes, that they A f r ,ti, x page: 64-65[View Page 64-65] 9 THE ROYAL GREENS. ,A4 wont get their sight clear afore there's been a 1 placed on those numerous evidences which they blow struck that'll stun 'em, as I may say." had received of the enemy's proximity. The men of the valley now1 looked wistfully The position which they now took was one at each other, and then conversed together in well calculated for the concealment pf\ a large sullen tones, The majority were finally induced, body of men ; it was a gorge or ravine, of con- through the joint representations of Vapalstine siderable length, a few hundred yards from the and other grumblers, to camp upon the ground Susquehanna, running parallel with ,the same. where they were, and, in the morning . return Adown this great trench, formed bythe hand of home. nature, our friends led their volunteer forces, When Dunbar heard this resolution proclaim- until they judged. they were opposite those whom ed by Vanalstine, he vehemently remonstrated they had just parted from. in his rough but earnest way, calling on such to This movement was effected without noise, follow him as loved the whig cause and .hated Their the scout, and his cordial supporters, Mon- tory cruelty. About one third listened to this tour, Devron and the Delaware chief, walked appeal, and- with the Delawares and Oneidas, quietly among the men, disposing them in advan- moved.on; while the remainder were making tageous positions, and giving them such instruc- preparations to camp as they defiled rapidly up tions-as they deemed necessary.. The Delawares the river. and the Oneidas listened willingly and.obedient- "We must change our- course a little now," ly to the orders of Castanego, and proved them- said the scout. " It wont' do for a mere hand- selves to be under better discipline than the ful like us to meet several hundred well-armed white men of the valley. It was now nearly two nen. We must deploy to the right and wait in o'clock. yonder ravine the result of this unfortunate "I hope that.they will not be so foolish as to work." light a fire," remarked Roland to the chief.- This proposal was readily agreed to ; for it " What does my brother call that ?" asked the seenied the only prudent thipg that they could other, pointing towards the river. do, except returning to the valley, which they Looking steadfastly in the direction indicated, did not wish to do from considerations of mercy, our hero saw a smallcolumn of smoke ascending knowing that those deluded ones who had listen= through the trees, which gradually increased in° ed to Vanalstine's sophistry, would have need of volbme whil@ he gazed, until it rose in a dark, aid before .morning, if any reliance could be dense cloud and wps followed by a leaping flame. Or the starry flag of agreat andgloribus con- federacy, the American eagle Had not then pet- thed; in the free pride of his trength ; but, fig- urntively speaking, that bird -of liberty seenea switching, from, some high liff of justice, the{ sanguinary struggle, and -plumifng his strong and daring wings to fly tO the etandaf'd bornd aloft in the naie of Freedom. - Could the brave men of Whom we discoursed in the last chapter, have looked through the deep mantle of darkness that they obscured the- horizon of'liberty, and teen the fut re glory and strength of the land for Which they Were battling, muethinka their gallant sols Would have shelled with joy and pride, which not all their rough, earnest eloquence could express. It was now proposed by the sturdy scout, that, one of their number should cautiously approach the spot where Vanalstine, and those Who had been so iUnwise as to heed his. oufsel, Were' cataping. No one being more com jetdhn td per- form that service than t)udbar, he 1inediatelf left the ravine with that object in view. He was abetnt longer than Mantotir had epected, sad feeling antious on his accoitt, he followed in the same direction. It was not' long before he reached the spot, f6r the fire served as an un- tnistaheable beacon to guide his steps. " #tanding updn A rock, hie peron piartlall'y covered by tife intervening trees and bushes an4 the smoke which the wind-blew toward h1m, ho was able to see without being himself seen by 'the dupes of tory inning who were disposed in various ways; with the intention'-of passing a quiet and comfortable-night.. They had spread their blankets'around the fire, and most of those- careless and simple ones were lying upoq them I while a few appeared to be already asleep, and about an equal number sat talking, smoking or dozing. Roland looked about for Vanalstine, and final- ly discovered him on that side nearest where he (Montour) was standing and farthest from the fire., Presently the low murmur of voices ceas- ed, and: the poor fellows, tired out with the fatigues of the-night, sunk to sleep with scarcely an exception. Prudence would have- suggested a watch, but her voice was not heard,.or ifheard was unheeded. Among those who gave signs of being Wakeful, were Vanalstine and the person with whom he had talked so freely on the march conuerfitg the finpol y of the ficastire.. ''These individuals were still' near neighbors, and ocea' atonally Montodr thought "hey Whispered to each other. The dull wings of sleep had not ldng fluttered over the encampment, when Vanalstine raised hiniself to his elbow, yawned as if just afousing ~fT1 ,III. T1t ETIU[ITOiI$'REWARD. : . I¢ E r i i + t ; tf . _t , f t S; , r fl , E ," t page: 66-67[View Page 66-67] .. . ' r n r j ' " . 1 f i . f ,t from sleep, and arose quite to his feet. Gaz- ing at the slumbering ones an instant, he touch- ed his friend with' the butt of his usket, when he also got up;thea the two walked sfty from the scene, and almost in a direct line for the spot where Roland was standing. To re- main perfectly motionless was the best way of escaping discovery, and so he kept his position like a statue. This expedient proved successful, and the traitors passed within three yards of him-thanks to the dense clouds of smoke and the sheltering foliage'!' When.they had procieded so far beyond his hiding-place that their figures could withdificul- ty be discerned gliding spectre-like along amid, the trees, Montour thought it his duty to follow them and attempt to unmask their purpose. He had gone not far when he saw the t)elaware, manifestly engaged in a similar pursuit. He was on the point of. speaking to him, when he was spared that trouble, the Lenape being already conscious of his propinqity, as he speedily sig- niied by a significant'gesture, then pausing until Roland joined him. "What did I tell my brother not smany hours agot Did I not say that their heartswere with the Iroquois, ad their faces tet against their bietihrel'W 'Now yoi imay cast your eyes yon- der and ,sod them creeping like slimy serpents to ":de tie sworn foes of'Wyoming," said Cutianego.° aet us hurry after them quickly!" returned Montour. "And why should we follow the lying dogs?' "To discover their object 1" Roland answered "That is known already. If we go afte them; it must be to strike them from existence,' repliedithe Delaware. .« Come on-come on,'orweshall"be toolate ' said another voice," and thereupon the tall form of Dunbar was seen' walking swiftly on th track of the traitors. "'Tis very good !"; exclaimed tEastanego " The days of the hollow hearts are'counted b the Great Spirit." ot much exertion or time ,was required b the',psties to gain sight of the;deserters agai They were following the bindings of the rise often stopjtg tolsten, and scan, as fras th were able, the, surface of, the water, which no' splashed mildly and'pleasantly in the moo light. They were expecting momentarily to s the Ilotilla of the royalists and the Iroquo t league. "There's evidently an understandin' atween 'em," said Dunbar. "It's plain enough to see that they're expectin' something' or somebody." " Of their intentions there is not room -for the shadow of a doubt," replied Montour. " Then our duty is plain, and we can't pre- tend to misunderstand it," added the scout. "I don't know that I exactly comprehend," resulted the young man. "If you do not, here is one at my side as does most perfectlyas I may say." The Delaware made a motion toward his gun) and smiled grimly. " It may be needful," said Montour. " Them' as we have left behind requires it, Think of the pretty maidens in the valley, and the old men and young children, and then ask your heart if it is necessary that the betrayers of their lies should suffer?" added the scout, with rough but honest seal. " I recall to mind the fair face of Hester Ham mond," said ;oland. ."And do you forget the sweet features of Ellen Devronx V" Something like a blush passed over the visage of yontour, and he was 'silent. S!There is Elvira Hudson, too -a sprightly ad comely cretur, and I might nampe a score of others equally claiming our pity. Now whatis 'our duty as men-as men made stronger than these-frail and pretty.ones, by natur V" " To defend them, to the death." "I knew you would say so., Humanity and " common-decency, as ='twere demands it of us. And possibly .Imay -say without boastin', that r we have tried to protect:the people of the valley " one and all. Have, we not been wakeful when others slept have we, not, my friend, been on the trail when others were on their beds, enjoy. ing qquiet sleep ? Have we .not dared what e others shrangkfrom, and slept beneath the open skies when those for whom we, were ,exposin' - ourselves were sheltered by comfortable roofs 7 that kept off the rain and the damp dews ? Can our consciences :accuse us .of inactivity and y idleness $" n. "Before the just Judge, I throw net, friend r, Dunbar. Anid this very day Iheard the fair lips sy of Hester Uammond declare, that David Dun'. w bar'had donefall that mortal could do to pre- a- vent the destruction of Wyoming." S ee "Did that pretty cretur really say that i THE ROYAL. GREEN. 6 asked the scout, pausing and laying his great that them two men ought to be disposed of, so hand on Montour's shoulder, they wont do no more mischief; the question is "Dunbar, you know full well that when I who will do it.?" speak, you hear the voice of one who would not "It seems ,tp me that my brother's heart is deceive you for his right hand. Miss Hammond, softening, and he .is becoming a squaw I Why said those words when you were leaving the should his voice grow serious when a couple of cabin." false dogs are to die .Come, be a man. Time "Heaven bless her, I say-heavdA bless her is flying, and soon the shouts of the Iroquois in the manner she deserves I" will be heard on the borders of the valley, " Don't be down-hearted about it, Dunbar--- where dwell the handsome squaws that you that girl is too good not to be sensible of your love,' added Castanego. . merits." "The reproof is, in some respects, merited, " May God forgive you, friend Roland, for but not wholly; for you must remember, Dela- speakin' in that way to me ! You know very ware, that thenatur of a red .man and a white well that I aint apresumptuous man; and never isn't the same, and they don't allers act from the expected any favor from that quarter. In fact I same motive. It's probable that the Master of may say that I care no more for the maiden Life has made everything as it should be, and than I do for handsome Ellen Devron, or any for the best ; but there it is, and can't be dis- other girl." puted, that the two races aint, alike in dispersi- "My worthy Dunbar, it's no disgrace to love tion. In some respects I don't feel it no dis- a comely and virtuous damsel, and the brave grace to be like a woman-for instance havin' a ever deserve the fair." pure mind, and a heart ready to melt at the "It isn't at all likely that my coarse natur is thought of the sufferin's of others--yet when iA capable of feelin' what you call love---it isn't, in comes to action, why I'm somethin' rather dif- fact, no ways reasonable to think so; and yet," ferent, I fancy. Now your nation has been call- added the scout, pausing, "if I was susceptible' ed women by then-" of that emotion, as 'twere, I know that the beau- "Hush !" said Monfour, pulling his friend by ty and goodness of Hester Hammond would- the sleeve in time to prevent the concl'o -of would produce it, although it would be the most the sentence. "Some telltale bre hopeless passion in the world." the sound of our voice yonder, L4 "Don't be too sure of that; for it is not Ih- you-will do quickly, that we m probable that you are over modest, and rather friends, who will be alarmed at blind, withal." absence." "I know that it's an easy thing to be mis- "We will .go opr and get rather nare'it taken about matters ordinarily, in this world; isn't best to risk a long shot when so much de- but the subject you're talking' of is sonethin' pends on it. Now creep softly, Roland, and as different." for the Delaware, in course I needn't trouble This conversation took place while the par- myself to caution him, for silence has got to be ties were halting, waiting for those whom they second natur."- were watching to go on again; for the latter had Vanalstine and his companion continued stand- stopped at a bend and were turning many a ing by the water. The spot theyoccupied was wistful glance up the river, comparatively free from trees of a very large My white brothers talk much, but not of pgze, and even the shrubbery .was not redindant what is before them!' said the Delaware. ~ in growth;. but directly behind them a hill "But the conversation naterally led to what arose precipitously steep, casting over them a has been said, for in trying to reconcile our con- dark and misty shadow, making their Sgures sciences to what is afore us, we were carried appear in the distanceindistinct, grim, and spec- back, as I may say, to those as are our friends tre-like. Although our friends were within rifle and neighbors, and in whomwe, as human cre- range, under ordinary circumstances, without tours, feel an interest ; otherwise than tIat, I the disadvantages mentioned, but as matters hold that the talk, as you call 'it, is to the pint, were, it was far from easy to look through the and on the whole calculated to help us'- do our delicate sights and see such vague, ill-defined ob } duty by 'em, like men. But now we'll waste no jects. Stealing along close to the water, they more time in words. The truth is, we all feel hoped to lessen the distance and gain a point THE ItOTAL GREENS. it w F 1 t t C k f y r' s .- C " t 7 L 3a 3 t S' IK' i {{w t i t" 1t ii i 1 - 1 {i i . f FC, y t C{ t " - t a s " n f ,y 1 t 1 k 1 ¢ t T r n; 4 r! r, cJ 3 P 67, page: 68-69[View Page 68-69] where the shadow of the back-ground would affect them less. After much effort, and run- ning some risk of discovery by their movements, they reached a large rock, behind, *hich they could stand, and over *hich they could look and see Vanalstine and his companioti, but still obscured by the misty veil thrown forward by. the hill. The, eout paused an instant ; something like a sigh of regret escaped him, and then making a motion to the Delaware, he raised his long'rifle. The breech had nearly pressed his shoulder, when again a feeling of irresolution or compunC- titm appeared to arrest his hand, and he let the weapon drop gently to the earth. " It isn't because I'm a- coward, Delaware. 0, by no means i but-bat, red'man, they're my -countrynen, and it goes agia my feelin's to lift my hand for their hurt." - " Give them the power and the sanguinary Iroquois are not half so cruel," replied Mon- tour, in the same voice. "Enought enough " said the.Delaw re. ",elm ready."' ddd I hear the sound of oars or paddles," added The Lenape laid his finger upon his lips to admo h them to silence, and bent his head tO lUst: ); j period of some seconds the par. 1ik .figures of stone. the come 1" whispered the c :e n's men and the Iroquois &r4andkvafley of Wyoming approaches the hr of bloody baptism t" said Roland.t Dunbar passed his hand over his forehead, and an expression of sadness, deep and palpable played upon his sune-burned face. "What now ought to be done " anxiously inquired Montour. "Wait," returned the Delaware, "wait til they sweep round the bend into sight, that may see how many." "Good advice-brt these two men mustn't o no account escape," added the scout. The sounds grew snore audible momentarily and in five minutes the foremost of the boat shot round the bend ; they were filled with me in green iiforit. . . c 1 :)' . kS 3' ++\ s i L ,{. " " The Royal Greens," said Dunbar. "And here come some of the Senecas and the Onondagas,'' added Castanlego. " lalloo I this way !". cried Vanalstine, ad' dressing one of the boats. "Who the deuce are you ? What's wanted ?" was the cturtgeply. "'We are men;royal acd tre; and a fine job we've got for you a short distance frotn here." " Well, what may it be, lads 1" "A nest of' rebels fast'asleep, to be made into inince-meat by Butler's Rangers." " Betrayed, are they 1" '" Like simple sheep," said Vanalstine. "Then we will go land shear.them-and close, " There I" hissed Dunbar, "my feeling's of humanity are gone. Delaware, take the one on the right, and I'll do for the other, The Lord have mercy on 'em I" This time Dunbar's rifle went briskly to his shoulder, and his keen, gray eyes seemed to travel along, the barrel with right goodwill, Montour could see, by the moonbeams, that his honsest-looking face Was flashed with indigna tion, and that his whole expression was as eager and resolute as ithad been hesitating, undecided .and sympathizing' a brief space before- He saw the levelled rifle with no emotions of pity ; that sentiment had given place to atiother. Were miscreants, who betrayed them nearest neighbors without compaction, worthy the commiser' ationof honorable .mten, however hard their d ft Montour kept his eyes on the two men. The Delaware and the scout fired. Vanalstine y dropped down where he stood ; but the other staggered and ran into the water. Roland's l rifle spring to his face with inconceivable quick' e ness, and its sharp, deadly voice went reverber. ating through the hills in a series . of whip-like n detonations.btheo tory fell forward against the bows of the boat ; the men drew him in,,but he y) did not stir ; they glanced at his head---saw the ts wound, and pushed the inanimate body into the n river. P CHAPTER XIV. THiE FA2E OF FORT WINTERMOOT. e mUNeARand his companions did not tarry to Delawares and the Oneidas athr a see more ; but with all possible speed retraced taneor n b~e p rt as in, ot.The r=, their steps to the ravine,- where they had left hastened fad , bu~ntheore they reatohe The tr men, and who were now awaiting their re- Susquehanna 'they heard a deafening e tu rnwith some degree of impatience and un- m entry, followed by cries of terro a m aiess, while the flotilla swept on o pin Now, my friends," said Roland, "is the "Onr deluded neighbors are suffer time to assert your claim to manhood, and that folly' , adedrne a ngfor their courage which is its true teat. Follow us, and "Not with a good grace can they claim our w e w ill h o w y o u th at w e w ere n o t m istak en t ewh n e as r ed h t o u f es e e d sc di g sy m p a thy ," an sw ered L aw so n . when we asserted that our foes were descending symAdth," addwere Lwohrn. wl o the Susquehanna to make a grand demonstra- "And yet," added the other, " we will not tion upon Wyoming. The man Vanalstine, refuse it." who created a division among us, and well nigh Nor an arm to help them," resumed Lawson. thwarted our purposes (with his no less deceit- "Haste, friends 1 haste1'" cried'Dunbar ful companion), has gone to his reward." in a resolute voice. The men of the valley trned their faces earn. There was little need now to admonish them estly toward Montour, for an explanation, to speed in their movements. If they had, per- When sleep had closed the eyes and locked chance, felt any want of confidence in their lead- the senses of their comrades and neighbors, Van. era previously, it was at that moment fully re-- left them to meet the forces of Butler, which are that they had professed, was at that juncture now floating down yorer water. We followed sufficiently evident; and thoroughly ashamed qf them-saw them watching for our foes, heard any doubt that their conduct might h ve implied themlhail the rangers-and-and you heard, during the night, they resolved to atone for the doubtless, the report of our rifles ! That finishes same by their obedience in future, and their my story." bravery at that time. The men grasped their weapons firmly, and Before they reached the river they were met 'lemnde tobe ed gaiast the enemy. The by several fugitives, who, mistaking them for a e r ' i t* - t 4 ' t :t f ' t 1 r s _?x - F r _ b 1 A r t f a t S i f s - t 4i ll! f 's ' -, t ;: ' s { { 'x .. 3 ^2 :" , I : , . ;,Y «x i k ji:F' , r Latt) tt 4 ,, y t i ,; r e _ . 1n RO AL G11 8. page: 70-71[View Page 70-71] i 6t t 1. f 1 {t t 1 V {{ r. : t. )A v i , t r r 1 v rk C 7 t tr " r 4 # ' i iX F , r f t , 1 3 i , THE ROTA L GE'ENS. 70 THE ROYA detachment of the enemy, fell upon their knees, and begged stoutly for mercy. Up, fools I" exclairged Dunbar; "up, and show yourselves men and not cowards." Some of the flying ones, as soon as they saw how matters really were, fell in with the men, and looking very penitent and sheepish, kept on with them ; while others Bed like persons depriv- ed of their senses. Arrived at the river, below the spot where the-fire had been kindled,'Montour and the scout arranged their somewhat motley army in the way that would best enable them to pour effectual volgys upon the enemy when the boats should pass. The firing abov them soon ceased; for those who were not slain or wounded at the first discharge, fled with all practicable speed in vari- ous directions. Bitterly, when it was too late, did they regret their folly, obtuseness, jealousy and mutiny against the authority of those whom they well knew ,could have no incentive to de- ceive or lead them wantonly into danger. Those whd had run off in an opposite course, would have given all their possessions at the. valley, for a single glimpse of the tall figure of the scout, with his calm, honest features. The few who hW 4 feso- fortunate as to meet the advane- I ' d,&natives, said not a word, asked , but with downcast eyes and dropped into the ranks. No one for feeling conscious of their fatal er that it had cost severallives, theywere suffiiently rebuked' There followed a short period of. silence, broken soon by the sound of paddles and, oars in notion. The. strange flotills drew in sight, presenting a startling spectacle to the, dwellers irk the valley--nen, however bold they might be in the hour, ofactual conflict, were undisciplined and unused' to seeing their enemies in such large numbers., The Indians of the league were seen in all their war-paint, dark, ktim and horrible, skimming lightly over the water in their canoes ; while the Royal Greens in bateaux, made up the rest of the unpleasant show; The whole of this fleet could not betaken in at a single glance of the eye, fpr it extended up the river a considerable distance. "What do you think of their numbers ?I" Law- son asked of the scout. "Ishould set them down at a thousand," was the reply. "A thousand men.!" exclaimed Devron. "Alas, who will protect;my child" "Fear not," said Roland. "There are hands that will not be forgetful of the needs of the helpless' and the fair, among us." " Observe," added Lawson to Montour, "how grim and terrible those dusky warriors look in the pale moonlight." "I am thinking," resumed Devron, sorrow- fully, "where their war-cries will be heard to- morrow, how many ears they will-fill with des- pair, how many hearts they will freeze with fear. If I were alone in the world, much less should I heed this visitation--much less should I dread the shock of the storm ; but, friend Dunbar, I have a dearly loved daughter." "And a fair one she is, and you may well be proud of her," responded the scout. The conversation now wholly ceased, for the moment of action had arrived. Concealed as they were in the bushes 'and shrubbery, the enemy were wholly ignorant of their nearness, and consequently not anticipating the results of such proximity. Stepping to a position whereehe could be seen by those who now confessed his authority, Dun. bar waved his hand (which was the signal agreed upon), and the mountain ranges resounded to the rattle and crash of musketry, and the loud war-whoops of savages suddenly startled from a sense of security by the whistling of the deadly ballet and the fall of companions seated at- their side. The' whigs'and their few faithful allies then loaded and fired as rapidlyas possible, without waiting for any 'particular orders.. When Bat-' ler's army had somewhat recovered from the first effects of the surprise, the fire was'returned as random without much auceese, because their shots were sent after foes whom they could not see, and if one was wounded, it whs only by chance. Knowing by the nature 'of the attack, and the firing, that the assailants were but few in number, the colonel commanded a strong de- tachment of his rangers, to land sand force the audacious handful of .rebels from, theirposition; but by the.time the first, boas had touched the bank, the objects of their vengeance were re- treating.toward the valley, knowing that to re- sist such everwhel ,as would: be.in vain, and result ina needless ateof life- Balled-in this.purpose, .ioly~remiaed, for the royalists to. smother- their: anger and. float down the stream as befbre- T ere was no lagging,'and every one did his best to reach thevalley before the enemy. Just as the sun was rising they came in sight ofl Wintermoot's stockades Near it was a cabin in1 which a fire was blazingupon the hearth. -Mon- tour rushed into the dwelling, seized a glowing brand,'and shouting to the others'to follow, ran toward the obnoxious fort and applied the burn- ing wood in several places. .Instantly the tim- bers ignited, the red flames leaped rapidly up the palisades, and the works were soon sheeted with liquid fire. Those who had garrisoned the stockade, fled at the approach of the whigs, and just in the border of the forest looked back and saw their stronghold crumbling to ashes. The flames darted up fiercely against the sky, casting an unnatural glare far down the valley and along the opposite side. " Many's the time I've-wanted to see such -a: sight a this," said Dunbar, as they moved on. "And now," said Lawson, speaking to Roland, " we must prepare for the great -trial of to-day." The returning patriots were met at Fort Forty by many anxious faces ; and many 'voices in. quired concerning the night's adventures, which had been heard but the day before s ,r'ng the idea of danger. The alarms which hldso often been sontaded were at that juncture fully realized, and the most incredulous and deceived among them could no longer doubt: ;We shall not dwell minutely on the prepara- tions that were made to-repel the invaders. All capable-of bearing arms assembled at Fort Forty.- Fly' they could not, even had they been disposed to do-so, although to their credit ,e it written, there was no disposition to act such a craven part when the conviction that :the foe was at harid became general. The militia turned out, and under the command of Colonel Zebulon Butler (no relation of Colonel John), Lieutenant Colonel Durrance, Major Garratt, and Colonel Dennison, made ready to give battle to the royalists. As we have not mentioned the names of these officers before, or rerred to them as making efforts for the protection oftthe valley, it is in-' .cumbent oil us to remark that they had been absent on activeservice in the corntinental army, ani had returned, some the day previ6 s add others that very morning; hence the reason that those gallant men have note itispoken'of. On that eventful morning a council of war was Balled to decide upon what course of action the. exjgency required. Colonel-Zebulon 1lutler vas in faeor of an immediate attack, and when there a F f i rt r I ' _! L GREENS. 71 had been considerable discussion pro and con, the opinion of 1)unbar was asked. \" Whether we had better march out and give 'ems battle, depends altogether upon circum- stances, as 'twere. If there's any reason to ex- pect rein1rcements front General Washington, I should say if would be better to shut ourselves up in the fort and wait. But it's probable that you are better acquainted with these -matters than I am. tinl tt we can take the tories by surprise; I don't think the chances of success are very great." "Those are my own views," replied Colonel Dorranee. "If 'we had the ability to surprise our wily foes, we might hope to win the day.' "I trusted that we might be able to do that," returned Colonel Butler, "for they do not anti" cipate an attack from us. They have encamped not far above the ruins of Wintermoot's stock- ade, as you know, and are regaling themselves, I dare say, on thebest beeves they can find." "Come, Mr. Montour, what do you think ? I should like to know the opinion of one of whoaI have heard so many flattering things during the two hours I have been at Fort Forty," said Ma- jor Garratt, turning to Roland. An ingenuous blush passed over the young man's face, for he observed that the eyes of all the officers were directed toward him. He quickly regained his self-control, and replied with befitting modesty : -" That' his opinion was probably: worth but little when compared with that of veteran officers who had 'seen much service; but' still were he to express his-sentiments freely, he should say that the -hasard of offering battle Wag great, be. cause they had no disciplined troops to 'oppose the regular soldiery of the royal army. They could not display in the field over four hundred -men to do battle with a thousand strong. Again, their force, consisting, as it did; of old men and mere striplings, would-very probably be dismay- ed by the shouts and terrific arts of six hundred savages and their hideous war-paint-.-experienc- ed braves who could fight'skilfully behind bushes, stones and trees, and, creeping like serpents, or running like moose, outflank their untried militia." " Very sensibly spoken," exclaimed Colonel Dorrance.. "It would be prudent, before making the at- tack, to send forward a small scouting party," re- turned Zebulon Butler. tl, page: 72-73[View Page 72-73] _ s i " 8 $ } , , s " . R's ) 3 .T , , + i l - - 1r ( f r 5 r 1 , c' f r I+ a r t i f f e- . j 4 1, AL GREENS. 72 THE'ROY This was certainly a very reasonable sugges- tion, and Dunbar was selected as the person best fitted for this service. It was a duty he was well qualified to perform, and he proceeded very calmly to the discharge of the same. Passing the smouldering timbers of Fort Wintermoot, and advancing under cover as much as possible, he was soon able to get a, very good view of the tory camp. They were at dinner, and gave evidence of being in the best offpirits. In sur- veying the motley groups engaged in that agree- able occupation, his 'eyes rested on Lanaway, Wintermoot and Martin Secord. The spectacle made his blood tingle with indignation, and cast- ing a wistful look at his rifle, he regretted that he could not use it in a manner which justice de- manded. - Nor were the individuals whom we have named the only ones whom, the scout re- eognized. He saw many who had once professed to be whigs, and who had freely expressed their hypocritical opinions when the patriots were consulting each other for the mutual good, and given advice which hadserved, as he could now see, to increase the apathetic indifference of the lessshrewd. " Heartless men !" mused Dunbar. "How can they rejoice and be merry at the thought of so much suffering as their wicked treachery will produce ?" Wintermoot'was talking earnestly with his- companions, and the scout felt a strong desire to get near enough to hear the conversation. Fortunately for him, the Senecas (whb were under the command of Gien-qwa-tah) were en- camped 'beyond the tories, between them and the woods, and this circumstance lessened the chances of discovery; because the ears .of an Indian are more ready to hear the light move- meats of an enemy, and their eyes quicker to detect the presence-of an unwelcome lurker. Dunbar crept nearer and still nearer, until the voices of the royalists were audible. He fancied he heard the name of Hester Hammond uttered in a contemptuous tone, and that increased his desire to hear more. Slowly he advanced. Lana- way was speaking, and the following words, greeted his ears, which were obviously in reply to some remark made by another party. "If it hadn't been for the black fellow, we should have done very well." "Our success would have been certain," re- sponded Martin, 'helping himself plentifully to. the eatables. 73 THE RpYAL GREENS. caped death as if by miracle. Experienced-war- "Jealous of such a dolt !" he exclaimed, after riors have been on their trail-they have been a pause."Hes Hammond cares little for the dogged night and day, and fired at by marks- like of him." men considered skilful ; but, as you are aware, "That's the only true thing you've spoken the two obnoxious persons are still in existence," this long time," thought Dunbar, whose ehimto said Lanaway. moethat heo d ot ite an inst der allnimt " I have surmised, Lanaway, that you had, imagine that he had excited a teiuder sentiment possibly, some uncomfortable feelings of jealousy in the heart of the fair Quakeress. in connection with Roland Montour ?" added Some conversation then ensued relating moey interonneto with aRovert smile.u . especiallytothe respective maidens for whomithey Wint"Perhaps It have, but thatmconcerns only my- professed to feel a friendship of so peculiar and self; but I have seriously supposed at times, lasting a nature, and which the scout did not that you were terribly jealous of that David deem it prudent to wait to hear. The names of Dunbar." Ellen Devro and Elvira Hudson were the last An angry scowl contracted the forehead of words that the winds wafted after him as he crept the tory, and he muttered some kind of an im- away. precation which the scout could not hear. t - .* " . ' , }. _,, t yj " _, { . i;. =, ' J r ., 3 r : ; 'y' a 1t.4 Fi . , ; , ,_a a P s}: tY . .r'3Yi. ' y ^i ' .,; Y r ' . , r 3 , k Xr .' " 4.. :_ R _ 4fY + t ,, ,:, S ;,ii. " ,iF " The darkey struck uncommonly hard !" t added the other. " There is one thing'will tend to console you," said Wintermoot, with a laugh. " You suffered for the sake of beauty; although without in- creasing your own personal good looks." " To be sure I have got a black eye, but time will cure that evil," Lanaway replied. "And I," resumed Martin, "have not only a black-and-blue eye, but a bruised and discolored ear ; and while we are speaking of the subject, I will remark that I was once kicked by a young colt, and knocked into a heap (metaphorically) ; but that was' a mere trifle to the blow that the nigger dealt me yesterday. But I've chalked it down, boys, against him, and hope to square' the account before the day closes." . "I also," said Wintermoot, moodily,, "have an account to adjust with a certain person, which I trust will be duly cancelled." "How cancelled ?" inquired Martin, with a sinister smile. " With blood !" rejoined Wintermoot, Rercely, "And who may that man be ?" " David Dunbar." "The scout of'the Susquehanna I" exclaimed Martin, with a start. " The same." "And right well I. know him ; I have also a 'spore set down to his debt which must be looked to sooner or later," added Martin. "There are one or two others of the same ilk, who have done.us much harm," Lanaway ob- served, with an unseemly oath. "Name them ; though there Is small need of it, f'or I presume we all know who you mean," Wintermoot responded. "Montour, and a stranger, who hovers about the valley, appearing at different times and places, and has frequently been seen with the young fAllow I have mentioned," said Lanaway "I have learned his name ; he is called Law son," .resumed Wintermoot. "I heard the Seneca chief talking of him to day; he has learned that it was through Law son's agency that Montour made his escape after he'was captured by him," continued Martin. "Then he marred a plan welllaid. It was Colonel Butler's intention that both Montour -and Dunbar should be put out of the way, for they were, figuratively speaking, the eyes of the valley, and nothing could be done without their getting knowledge of it. Often have they en- K Mkt t 't . i 1 0 page: 74-75[View Page 74-75] It.Fe-? q "Ca' ;. t'r - ji 4 s , - _ ' t Y _ il y t ,. f CHAPTER XV. THE BATTLE. DUNBARf lattered himself that the most criti- "I don't expect nothing' different from that at cal part of his task was accomplished, when Gi- your oneds," said Dunbar. "Although t an en-qwa-tah, attended 'by three or four of his o I had ' n bar. suficgh not long warriors (who had been reconnoitering) ap- son for making' A my power and a sufficient rea- proached id that direction and came suddenly take advantage of the circumstance out of merci- upon him. He sprang-from the ground, knock. ful considerations. But I didn't supposeyou'd ed one of themi down and would have escaped, remconmbersucatins. uto rer it in kind, and had not Gi-en-gwa-tah and the other two braves you see I paint disappinted in them respects." thrown themselves upon him with the agility 'of Your course is pretty near run, I take it," panthers. The scout bestirred himself like a said Wintermoot. man, and putting forth his herculean strength, " erhaps it is, but every lau's time comes attempted to shake off his adversaries, and as sooner nor he's ready for it. Few of us, I reck- much as the chances were against him would on, will be found prepared for such a wondrous, possibly even then-have succeeded in his pur- change. But I'vedone my duty, and have pose, had not the gun of one of the Indians been nothin' to be afeared of in that respect. I've dischaged in the scuffle, attracting instantly the loved my country, and did itabest for the cause attention of the tories, a party of whom ran to of freedom. To be sure, I haven't done all I the spot (among whom were Wintermoot, Lana- wish I could, but enue, to gave doe a clea way and Secord), who immediately decided the conscience, as I may say, and take away the matter. His arms were pinioned by tle Seneca terror of what's afore me in giving' up this world chief', and he whose limbs but a few moments for the other," Dunbar answered, with his wont- before were free, was now a prisoner. .I ed calmness of demeanor. Wiutermoot approached and touching the "Well, we don't want to hear no preaching scout upon the arm, testified his pleasurQ at see- to-day, for we have other work to do. In about ing him in uet a situation by a loud laugh, five minutes we will stop your rebel tongue which had in it something umtural and diaboli- forever," added Wintermoot.ygue cal. Martin Secord, after looking at the quiet "As for that matter, I conclude you haven't face of Dunbar a moment, proposed that he much authority over me, because .I was taken shodb in~stlypu todeth by this redskin, and I fancy he'll dispose of me i 75 f 3 , I fly. f 1 1 . 'r f' I t t ' c 217 l i Y 2 E 1 j s t E 1 t 1 7 - S E Y - , E . t f t P 1 I I lim 11 X lp 1 1111 Rli;i M , 11 A I'll III are there at Fort Forty ?" said the s he-pleases," Dunbar remarked, for he observ- g en ed that the Seneca chief was not pleased with colon.' hat had ben said. you imayr have heard of me, but it'spli "We sha eide tha" resumed Winter- yoU don't know m anrsweredthe scout. "No t gasping thescout by the shoulder with man as knows me would ask such a question as T moat, graspnth that" intention of dragging him away to a spotthtI nheitthe execution of hi threat. But Butler mused a moment, playing meanwhile e had reckoned too highly on his power. G- with the hilt of his sword. en.gwa-rah quickly interposed his authority. "Come, my good fellow; tell me whatkind of "Thisaptuive wanto en s a they.ea turn-out they will make Q" he added. " This captive was notd dakengby thepale " Enough to make a bloody field-.--enough to face o! he anriy exclaimed, disengagmng th send some of your villains home to their father- handoftheetor withis sudenp e entr- the great prince of the powers of darkness, - Wintermoot resented this unexpected inter- moodily rejoined the scout. ference, and in the first heat of passion drew a " ejave the scor pisol r~mhisbel, i whch ct e ws iitaed We have a game fellow here, surely. Sene- pistol frby his belt, in which act he was-mtathRd ca, you must keep your eyes on him." at once by his two friends. .cGhiren-gwah and '"I would suggest, your honor, that he be his braves clutched their totnhak, adfr agd at once," said M~artin Secord, touching moment there was a fair prospect of a serious hanged. emeute; but Butler opportunely reached the spot When I want your advice, I'll ask it" re- at that crisis, and sternly rebuked Winter*oot iWeathecolonel,sternly, andeartin slun await for provoking the Seneca's ire. The pstols behind Wintermoot, went back to their places, instantly, and the war- bhI wish so brave a man could have been e riors of the league looked sullenly at those who wis o rase," culd have beene- ha°vrtpe:hi egtmt ons n t listed on the right side," resumed Butler, glane- Shad overstepped their legitiinate bounds, and at- iga ubr tempted to violate established usages.isgaDnbr Temt t vis esabvisd uagtescoutf ".Then you've got your wish !" exclaimed the the souout "This then is David Dunbar,th cuo scout. whose cunning I have' heard so many eftrava- "iIf you could be made to see what is for said things ' My red brother has done well'your interest, those bonds might be severed." said the coldfhel. n ""I'd rather wear 'em than change my senti- The eyes of the Seneas are always open," ments, It was born in me to be airnest in what- returned He-who-goes in the smoke. ever I under ke, and I can't be no otherwise. "They are the boldest of the Iroquois," added "Well, if you rather die a reel than live a Butler. loyalist, have your own way; "And the Oneidas are squaws," returned the but you might think your life worth saving." chief. "Not at the price you name, or rather at the Yes, they are women, and do not know their price you hint at. I'll submit to my e ow idsri."e frto best wyIcn and hope you'll be able when "Some of them are yonder in the big fort of you're called for, to go with as clear a conscience ; our enemies." but you've shed too much innocents blood to "I expected it, and have long been in doubt hope for any peace in the hour of death. It's a of them; but'the Senecas and Onondagas are pity you hadn't given up life in in cy full-grown men, with hearts like buffaloes, and you'd well begun it, so thatyou might have been swift of foot as the wild moose. spared the infamy which will alleys cling to your Giun.a-tah heard these complimentary say- memory, and curse your name as on asthe logs without changing a muscle of his face. history of these tryin' times shall endure." "yyoung braves are thirsting for blood," The tory le ;r hs aeri o edwt t he replied. horror, gazed at the glowing face of the scout an "eThey shall soon have it-it shall run like instant, and e s n s wate." *but xcitd voice. Dunbar saw the chief -shake "And will God have mercy on the souls of his head and frown, and then the colonel walked them as cause it'to be poured out ?" exclaimed away with a lowering brow. flunbar. Gi-en-gwa-tah motioned for his prisoner t a r. w many fight- follow, and proceeded to the place where his "Ihave heard of you, sir. How ay g THE ROYAL GREENS. page: 76-77[View Page 76-77] fl ;! 'i ;R f i, ; 1 } :a i5' . f ' ! , e . i1 " + t 7 l 'r' # " j { ,, 3 . ," r, s '1 y., fill 76 warriors were feasting. There was a small de- that more than once she permitted her mind to serted cabin near, into which Dunbar was con- dwell upon Roland Montour. Once during the ducted. His limbs were then more, securely day he had passed the cabin, paused a few mo- bound, and he was left the sole occupant of the' ments at the door to exchange afew, words.with dwelling, a guard of warriors being duly placed' her father and Cato. He had seen and recog- without to prevent the escape of a captive of so nized her with the common salutations of the much importance. He did not gather any hope day; but by some means the gentle maiden re- of being spared through the clemency ofhIris cap- ceived the impression that his voice: took on a tor, because he had prevented Wintermoot and different tone-was modulated to a softer his associates from gratifying their malice on cadence when he addressed her. He had also, the spot, by adding murder to their other crimes. she 'imagined, changed color and manifested Too well was he acquainted with savage habits some confusion ; and Miss Hudson averred that and usages long sanctioned among the aborigi- his eyes had followed the pretty figure of her nals, to entertain such fallacious views. That friend Ellen, with evident pleasure. This she he was reserved for a death less easy, he was whispered to the damsel the moment Montour not so obtuse as not to perceive. His sanguinary had departed, thereby causing her face to become conqueror wished to submit hirm to those terrible suddenly suffused. It is not improbable that ordeals which were well calculated to shake the Ellen retorted upon the malicious girl, by some strongest heart with fear. sly reference to Edward Gaston, though of this With that philosophy which he had learned we have no'positive'knowledge; but it is quite from nature more than from books, he endeavor- certa* that if aught could be said by either party ed to reconcile himself to a situation from which calculated to excite a smile and produce a mo- there now appeared no way of escape. He thought mentary forgetfulness of their perilous situation, of Hester Hammond, and wondered what would it was not left unspoken. be her fate when the tide of battle swept down The sun of the third of July, 1778, passed the the valley. Who would fly to save her when all meridian, and his rays, poured down brightly was lost-when the young men and the old who upon the valley. The green grain, just up, were now making ready to do their best, lay waved Ih the soft summer air ; the, grass undu-' stretched, wounded or lifeless, upon the fields of lated upon the beautiful meadows, ad the spring Wyoming ? Her father and brother would both flowers nodded in the pleasant warmth; the be in the conflict about to ensue, and if they leaves turned to the gladdening light, and the should fall-Dunbar shuddered; and devoutly waters murmured musically through the lovely wished he could think of some subject more com- vale. forting ; but the painful theme wad forced upon -"On Susquehanna's side, fair Wyoming! him and couldn't be dismissed. Although the wild flower on thy ruined wan, And roofless homes, a cad remembrance bring Leaving our friend in this unpleasant dilem- Of what thy gentle people did befall, ma, we will,note the fortunes of others .rtie Yet tho wertonce the loveliest land of all concend wilno the fns o her parties That see the Atlantic wave their morn restore." concerned in these events. Ellen and Elvirastood at the door of the cabin, Wearily and fearfully passed the hours at Mrn. okd pnec fuiitscn fta Hudson's pabin. Fair and anxious ones waite' and looked upon each familiar scene of that in dread suspense to hear the sound of mortal earthly paradise; and while they gazed, inhaled combat. Many of the women and children had the perf med zephyrs, and listened to the cheer- taken refuge at Fort Forty, but the inmates of ful notes oflinnumeable birds, they tried to think the dwelling we have named, preferred to re- that the tales they had heard of war and danger main atltome and abide the issue there. If their were but idle dreams of the night, and that amid defenders proved victorious, it would make bu that rural scenery, little difference whether they were at the cabin or "The happy she herd swains had nought to do the fort,*°and if they were vanquished, they Or skim perchance the a with lhtes,, argued that they could meet their fate there as Recalled from the momentary abstraction, the well as at any other place. Not a single male m aieca edotheimomentay aces up the river. protector remained with them-all had gone th e"The valley smiles beautifully to-day, in its meetthe oe.loveliness," said Elvjra. That Ellen Devron thought of her father was "Yes, but methinks there is an awful stillness very nathral; nor may it be deemed unmaidenly in the air." "No, Ellen, here comes a, gentle little zephyr I to stir your ringlets." *t " But I mean that there is something terribly oppressive in the' atmosphere, despite -all its. fragrance. The sky seems to bend over the valley with a brassy, fiery fixedness, tht awes my spirit," said Ellen. Elvira shuddered and again threw anxious glances up the river."s " Do you hear, aught, my children?" asked Mrs. Hudson, coming to the door. "Not a sound to indicate that the battle has commenced," replied Elvira. . "Put up prayers, to the God of armies, chil- dren," added Mrs. Hudson, in a voice low and tremulous. The good lady had scarcely ceased speaking, when the roll and rattle and roar of musketry, in rapid and continuous volleys, reached their ex- pectant ears. " The dreadful work has begun I" exclaimed Mrs. Hudson; " Husbands and fathers, brothers and lovers are now being swept away by the demon of war. Heaven only knows how many that-are dear to us are being prostrated by those fearful volleys I" Soon a dense volume of smoke arose, and gradually expanding, hung over the valley like a thunder-cloud of three-fold blackness. The air, recently so odorous with the breath of flow- ers, became impregnated with sulphurous fumes. With claspedl hands and parted lips, the maidens continued to strain their eyes toward the scene, of tumult, and listen to the heavy volleys that were sending hundreds of souls to the world eternal. S" It seems to me," said Ellen, " that the firing grows more distinct." '" Then they must be retreating," returned Elvira. .Ellen did not ask who were retreating, for she knew if their friends were the victors, the battle would roll from them and up the valley toward Lackawannock. - Now we will approach the scene of conflict, note the disposition of the Americans and the' conduct of our hero. When the hastily raised and ill armed army reached the place where the battle was fought, they found the rangers and Indians drawn up in line, and ready to receive them. The command of the left was entrusted TAE ROYAL GREENS. Ai4 1 - 4 t ,. " c . , } , E ±± 1 k tib , s rt s k 4 y { t F rn II 4 " d](4c A Y I 4i { , THE ROYAL GREENS.. -'7 to Colonels Dennison and Dorrance ; while the right was led by Colonel Zebulon Butler in per- son, aided by Major Garratt. Opposed to the latter, were the Rangers and Greens, command- ed by Colonel John Butler. The enemy's right was led by Gi-en-gwa-tah, and consisted mostly of Senecas. The Delaware chief and his warriors were on the left, and Montour was also in that division of the army. When the action commenced Roland looked for Lawson; but he was not to be seen ; in a few minutes after he saw him ap- proaching through the thickest of the fight, where the bullets were flying like hailstones. " The scout is a prisoner," he said, advancing to our hero's side. The words fell heavily on Montour's heart. "By whom was he taken ?" he asked. " By the Seneca chief, who is fighting like a fiend yonder, and whose war-cry rises loudly above all others on the field." "Then there is hope for him," returned Roland. "A forlorn one, at best." "He must be rescued," added Montour, wip- ing the smoke and powder from his face. "That is more easily said than done," said Lawson, dily., "But I shall try it, nevertheless, though it cost me the best blood in my body. I cannot rest while my friend lies bound like a dog, await- ing the pains of a direful death. You are a brave man, sir-may I not rely on your aid?" " Consult yonder Delaware, and I will abide by the result; I place much reliance upon his judgment," Lawson-answered. "Have you been long acquainted with him ?" asked Roland, with 0 strong feeling of curiosity. "I knew him when he was but a child, but that was long ago." Montour looked earnestly at Lawson, and then advanced toward the spot where he heard the shout of tbi Lenni Lenape. He saw men and youth falling on every side of him, and the ranks of the Americans momenta- rily growing thinner. He spoke words of cheer as he passed along, and encouraged them with hopes which he was far from feeling. On alittle grAssy knoll he saw the body of a boy with bright flaxen hair, lying beside the mutilated corpse of an old man, whose head was white as the snows of winter. page: 78-79[View Page 78-79] ( 1' - x z f1 ! J f " f i r 1 r fgAl F , t" fi yy 1. r ]i , t F tn4 { ff-F Fr 1TZ r _ S {{{1 1 } ' t I 1 r i 3 l i ' 'Fi' I 1 Fr + C 1 1 1 - Sfk y 1 y S i t" '' s" CHAPTER XVI. INCIDENTS OF THE CONFLICT. MONTOURomoved on, and Lawson walked at "Yes, we must move quickly-they are cx- his side. A few yards to his right he saw a lad ercising their skill upon us. See ! a ball whist- intently watching a bush, and while he was yet led through your hunting shirt." observing him, a Seneca cautiously put ,forth " My dear friend, do not thus expose your- his head to elect another victim, when the self-walk on that side," added Lawson, with youthful warrior shot him. some agitation of manner, and placinghimself "Braveboy ! brave boy !" exclaimed Lawson. between Montour and the fire of the Iroquois. "Yes, all are bold to-day," returned Roland. And then Roland remembered, though he his A little farther on our hero saw a wounded not before noticed the fact particularlysthati man sitting upon the grass, trying to staunch eccentric friend had maintained that position the bleeding from a wound in his arm, and during their walk across the field of battle until threw him his handkerchief to assist him in his the incident of the wounded man hadhanged it. purpose. At this singular circumstance he marvelled "I thank you," he said; " I am earnest to much, for his new acquaintance had made no oin the battle again." professions of friendship. He also recollete d Whilb the soldier was wrapping the handker- (and what had just occurred revived the remem- chief about his arm,:a bullet from a concealed brance), that at the skirmish on the river, Law- foeman stretched'him upon the ground. Mon- son had been continually near his person, and tour saw the 4moke cui-ling from behind, a rock, often between him and the enemy's fire. Amid and keeping his eye upon the spot, soon saw a all the horrors and dangers that environed him, rifle barrel thrust over it, and the painted fore- *he could not but dwell upon so strange a matter head of an Onondaga. Roland was quick of "You have placed yourself in the mos ex- sight, and that savage never looked through the posed position," he remarked. " sights " again. At the instant he discharged " Have I? Well, it was quite by chance. his weapon, a leaden messenger passed through Hark I that was the war-cry of Castanego--that his cap, and another perforated hiscanteen. is he running to take a scalp. Here Obse re " Gi-en.qwa-tah's devils are concealed in yon- near Captain Bidlack's company. der thicket and quite along to the marsh. We how he cheers his men I" are under their fire," said Lawson. Lawson pointed at the gaa 79 directed Montour's attention to him, and before "I fear your care is useless, Mr. Montour," his hand had fallen again to his side, the figure he said. "And I am taking you from a post which his finger had indicated had received a where you were doing good service." mortal hurt and was.sinking down upon the, "There is always a chance for those whoimake blood-stained turf. an effort," answered Roland, hastening on. "Rest, gallant soul !" exelaimed,,Roland, and When he had reached the bank of -the river, he hurried toward the Delaware chief., glanced behind -him and discovered that he was The Iroquois appeared to be divided into six pursued. bands, and when a loud shout from one party "Some one is after me," he said, laying his told of the fall of some brave enemy, it was taken friend gently upon the ground. Turning again up in dreadful chorus by all the.others and pass- he recognized his pursuer, it being no other than ed along the whole right wing. Martin Secord; who had already levelled his gun. Montour threw himself prone upon the earth, 'Bounfls that mingled laugh. and shout, and s aredal. To freeze the blood in one discordant jar, and the bullet went harmlessly over him. Leap Rung the pealing thunder-bolts of war. ing to his feet, he hurled his hatchet at Martin; hAs i unearthly fiends had burst heir bar; it struck him upon the head and lfe fell..~ Ro- While rapidly theaarksman's shot prevailed;- land caught his bleeding burden from the earth, And ay, as if for death, sonme lonely trumpet wailed;" and looking hastily about for the means of hid- "Fight gallantly, lads! Do your best, , for ing him, saw a bateau partly drawn up from the Butler gives no quarter-to-day !" cried Montour, water. In the bottom of the vessel he placed springing to the head of-the column, where the Gaston, then tearing out a portion of the lining captain had fallen. of his frock, he bandaged the *ound to the best Encouraged by his example, they stood their of his ability, and pushed the boat into the ground against the storm of destruction that stream, when it was immediately taken by the swept them away and decimated their ranks. current and floated down the valley. Whileathey were fearlessly breasting ~the leaden " That will at least give him a chance for his tempest, the voice of Dorranee rang out over the life," said our hero, as he stood and watched the field, nerving every heart to firmness. One poor bateau a-moment as it was carried away. fellow flinched as the smoke, fire and sulphurous He went to the spot where Martin Secord had steam blinded his eyes. fallen, but he was no longer there ; he had "Standup to your work, sir ! stand up boldly, doubtless been stunned by the blow, and not lad !" claimed Dorrance, whose eye -seemed dangerously wounded. to be upon every one under llis command. The-battle had now raged a long time, and it. Chivalric Dorrancel those were his last words, was beginning to be dark. When he reached the hissing bullet struck him down where he the left wing again, the Americans were slowly stood. The head of the column wavered-the giving ground, and the savages, were turning most reckless and brave hesitated. their flank. At the time when .he took up Gas- "Keep your ground, men-all is not lost ! ton to bear him from the conflict, Mr. Devron Remember that British Butler gives us no quar- and young William Hammond were fighting ter !" shouted Roland. side by side, but now he looked in vain among "Mr. Montour, I am wounded," said a faint the grim and blackened faces to find them. He- voice at his side. Roland turned and saw, thought of the lovely Ellen, and in his solicitude through the dark haze of battle, the form of for the safety of her father, forgot his own dan- Edward Qaston stretched at his feet,- " Good- ger, and for a brief space his tried friend Dun- by, my friend-I expect I'm sped. Tell bar. He ran from group. to group (for ranks Elvira-" - there were none, the men were so cut up), but "Take my place, Mr. Lawson," interrupted could not see the object of his anxiety. He Roland, "while I convey my friend to some passed the foremost of the shattered companies, spot where he will not lose his scalp, or be trod. and continued his search among the dead and den to death by the combatants." wounded. "Heaven only knows where you will find "Come back !" cried Lawson, but Montour such a spot," replied Lawson. Montour took did not heed him, but walked over the ground Gaston in his arms and bore him toward the which the men of Wyoming had lost, unmind- river. ,. ,ful of the unremitting fire in that quarter. H . THE ROYAL GREENS. t t' 4 i i k " 1 " .M i 'cr" - ' lK page: 80-81[View Page 80-81] i 1 r _ 1 i f S iiCCCC Y + t f a/ t f i (r r r , e at length found Devron sitting by a heap of the dead, calmly awaiting his fate-the coup de grace and the scalping knife. Nor would he have been kept long in dread of the catastrophe, for a war- rior was even then advancing with a frightful cry to give him the death-stroke. Montour met the Seneca with a strong bound, and grasping the wrist that swung the uplifted tomahawk, buried his hunting knife in his bosom. The yell of triumph subsided to a hollow groan, and an ominous rattle in'the throat. "Done, right bravely!" exclaimed Devron. "Now fly for your life ! Give my love to Ellen, God bless her 1" Roland made no answer, but caught the wounded man in his arms. "Dar'll be trubbil dar !" cried some one whose voice it was not difficult to know. Montopr glanced toward a clump of bushes on his right and saw Cato contending with Wintermoot and two of the natives.. While he was considering what to do, he perceived Lawson running to the scene. " Good heavens, my dear Roland! you are extremely rash !" he heard him exclaim. " Hasten to aid Cato," replied Montour, and then hurried forward with his burden. "Leave me, gallant young man ! This-will cost you your life !" remonstrated Devron, un- willing to involve another in the doom, which, to him, appeared inevitable. The retreat had now become a flight. Vainly did Colonel Zebu- Ion Butler try to rally his men. He rode back and forth over the field, his gray hairs stream- ing in the wind, commanding and entreating by turns. "Do not leave me, my children ! Maintain your ground, and!the victory will be oirs i" But the voice of the veteran was unable to stay the, tide of retreat, and restore the fortunes of the day. A steady blaze'of fire followed his course over tive plains, while he strove to produce Qrder and obedience. The curtain of night fell deeper and darker, and gloomily the smoke of battle mingled with the shades of twilight. Then com- menced the horrors of retreat. Order was gone, and the Americans presented no serried line to oppose the exultant foe. Wild, disorderly and fatal was the flight of the miserable debris of the army. Demons mad shrieked after them, and direful deeds were done on the fair meadows of Wyoming..,,*i As Montour went on with his wounded friend, he came to a. spot where a- determined handful still made a desperate stand. "Our men are retreating-sisll we follow ?" he heard one ask. " I'll have one shot more," replied the person addressed, while at the same moment a ball struck a tree close. by his head, and a native sprang toward him with a spear. The whole- souled fellow, who would have "one shot more," had the privilege, and the savage leaped high in the air and fell with his weapon clutched con- vulsively in his hand. "Now come," added his friend, but with un- parralleled calmness he answered, "I'll load first."* " What is that man's name ?" asked Montour, struck with admiration at his conduct. " George Cooper," replied Mr. Devron. "It should be remembered," returned Roland, with enthusiasm. If the reader will take the trouble to consult the pages of Stone's or Miner's History of Wyo- ming, he will, much to this satisfaction, learn, that such acts of boldness are not speedily for- gotten by a grateful people. Long will the memory of Butler, Dorrance, Hewitt, Garratt, and a score of others, be cherished by the lovers of liberty. "But these are deeds which should not pass away, And names thamustnot wither, though the earth Forgets her empires with a just decay, The enslavers and the enslaved, their death and birth; The high the mountain-majesty of worth Should be, and shall, survivor of its woe, And from tts immortality look forth In the sun's face, like yonderAljiine snow, Imperishably pure beyond all things below." Captain Hewitt,'whose fate is well known to those versed in the history of those fearful times, was at that crisis striving to make the drummer " strike up ;" but his drum was literally riddled with balls, and a tin-pan would have been quite as good for his purpose. . " Shall we retreat V' asked one of his lieuten- ants. " We are left alone." " I'll be shot if I do !" retorted the captain, resolutely. He did not stir and was "shot" where he was. The next day his body was found mutila- ted and scalped. Here indeed was a rare exhibition of courage ; and Montour as he pushed forward with Devron, prayed fervently that the captain might be spared to his country many years; but when he looked back, after going a few rods, he was no longer to be seen-he was stretched beside other noble hearts that had ceased to beat. *This incident, and sevei~l related in this chapter have the merit of being strictly true. if I Al THE ROYAL GREENS. CHAPTER XVII, OT1R EVEN'T5 OF TMTE N!GIIT. ONWARD Montour hurried, not well knowing "Are you a strong swimmer ?" Roland asked, which way he should bend. his footsteps to find addressing Cato. The negro signified in his a place of safety. To the oft repeated proposi- own peculiar manner " dat he was awful strong tion of Devron to leave him to his fate, he gave in dat ar' way." no attention. It will be borne in mind that he "I do not think he can keep such a dead had carried Gaston to the river, and it occurred weight above water for such a distance," said to him that his best chance of escape was in that Mr. Devron, who was severely wounded in the direction. The pursuit had - swept by him,.and side. the few who still remained on the field,.and the "Stop," replied Castanego, and immediately yells of the great body of the Iroquois, were ran up the river until his figure was lost sight of heard on the track of the flying Americans, and in the darkness. The parties awaited his return this circumstance was greatly in his favor. Oc. in-silence. Cato was the first to announce that casionally he saw a native lingering behind to the Delaware was coming. He appeared guid. rob the dead or take a scalp ; and several tories ing a bateau close up under the shadow of the, he discovered engaged in plundering the stiffen- bank; he had detached it from the enemy's fleet ing bodies of their former neighbors. He glided of boats above. The African lifted Devron into along so adroitly that he gained the Susquehanna the vessel, anSI in obedience to a motion from without being pursued. Looking down the river, Montour got in himself. he could see by the commotion of the water that "Now, Cato," said Roland, "I commit Mra many fugitives were trying to swim across, some Devron to your care. On your faithfulness de- of whom were overtaken and slain, while others pends. his life. When you reach the opposite sunk from exhaustion and wounds. The last bank, bear your friend and master towards the sounds that the dying.heard, were the discordant woods as fast as possible, and direct your course whoops of savages, or the shrieks of some tor- to the spot where you were once bidden to 'run tured wretch suffering beneath repeated blows. for life."' Montour paused andsoon saw forms approaching. "I'll do dat ar'!" replied Cato, "and," he Happily they were not enemies, but Lawson, added, pointing to his weapons, " dar'll be trubil Cato, and thM Delaware with a few of his if dey follows dis chile." braves. " My poor Ellen 3" sighed Mr Devron, coy' -1 - 'i x ;y r E 1, . s 1 ( R r T,. 1 i h p 80 4 . a z L 9 k t Ir 4 y {j4! tl 7 x i, 1, ;3 S i ! . t R i page: 82-83[View Page 82-83] * 14 - x ' ; ---I- THE ROYAL GREENS. ering his face with his hands, " Alas, my poor girl!" "She is not forgotten, Mr. Devron, I assure you she is not. I solemnly promise that I will save her, if it be in the power of mortal man to do so." " I thank you from my soul ! But time is flying--the tide of death is setting that way," replied Devron. "I know that the tide of destruction is sweep- ing downward,. but it will be long in reaching Mr. Hudson's dwelling. Our ruthless victors have enough work on their hands o keep them busy for some hours. Avery trembling fugitive will be hunted up-the fighting men wjll fall first, afterwards the more tender and helpless ones will suffer. 13y midnight the valley will stibam with fire. Adieu, Mr. Devron, for the present. I trust to see you again before the morning.'' Cato pushed the boat from the bank while the wounded man was expressing his gratitude to Roland. This matter being dismissed, Montour prepared to turn his attention once more to the consideration of the means of liberating Dunbar from his perilous captivity. "Most of the. Senecas are now eager in the pursuit, and probably but few warriors are left to guard the scout," said Lawson. "I have thought of that, and am encouraged by the circumstance," Montour rejoined. "My warriors are ready," said Castanego_ "Let us to the camp of the Meng'we. Their fireslurn dimly yonder, for their nostrils ac~e fell ofmthe scent of blood. But many of their braves have fallen; the eyes of my warriors have been upon them, and some of ,their strong men have perished." *"My ears hear doleful cries," he added, as the wind bore mournful wailings up the river. The Good Spirit is angry with my white broth- era. On! on ! son of t e Delaware,ftliat the lightnings of the eagle eye and the fires of the strong heart be, not extinguished." . " I am young, and my feet have not so often trodden the dangerous war-path, nor have I looked so often into the camp of the Mengwe as, the chief of the Lenni Lenapes ; therefore let my red brother take the lead, because his heart. is big and he knows the ways of the enemies of the Delawa, replied Montour. "My cousin.has'a smooth tongue; and-speaks flatteringly to the unlearned Lenape; but the Lenape knows that he undervalues- his: own TIE ROYAL GR1i ENS powers and speaks lightly Of hit skill. The red man has seen him follow the frail, and strikes an enemy, and he knows his step is stealthy and fleet, and his arm swift to avenge a wrong l let him lead on, and Castanego will follow." "The words of the Delaware chief do my heart good; they sound pleasantly in my ears, and I will do as he bids me, because it is his pleasure, and not because I am so skilful as he,' returned Montour. While these words were being exchanged the parties were not, standing still, but moving to- ward the Iroquois camp with much circumspect tion. In approaching the spot, they passed over t. considerable portion of the field of battle, and saw many mournful mementoes of the fight. As they warily drew near the ground where the In- dians had made their bivouac, the aspect of things was greatly changed. The hundreds of, red faces that had swarmed there during the day could no longer be seen-they were out on a mis- sion of death. Montour queried whether all had not gone, and was about to express his convic- tion that such was the case, when the Delaware pointed towardscacabin standing solitary upon the plains. A closer scrutiny revealed the forms of men. Lawson suggested that they Were a party left to guard the scout, who was doubtless in the cabin. To etect their laudable purpose, it was necessary to overpower these grim and watchful sentinels. To approach them in andi- rect line, would have been injudicious, and in fact impracticable; therefore theyadvanced in a circuitous manner. When they had gained- that side of the cabin farthest from the battle-field, they discovered that the few .Senecas who re- mained behind were quite forgetful of their-trust. The dwelling was no longer surrounded as it had been, for in their eagerness to know what was passing down the valley, they had forsaken their several posts and gathered at that point nearest the scene of conflict, where, with dis' tended nostrils, and glowing eyes which shone through the darkness like fire, they listened to every sound that was borne to their ears, longing to join in the dreadful din, yet fearing to desert entirely the duty that had been assigned-them: With their feathered heads:bent forward, their bodies fixed and statue-like, their tomahawks clutched in their firmly het fingers, they present- ed a wild and striking tableaux. Their-souls were with their-brethren,slaying, scalping, shout- ing the cries of, their nation. Thus intensely silent they sent their savage thoughts after those who were shedding innocent blood, and rioting with untold fury in scenes of horror which no Imagination can paint. That was their last battle, real or. imaginary. The hatchets which they grasped in their ner- vous, restless hands were never fleshed again in hnman mortality--their lithe arms never grap- pled a foe, and never more did theyeraise the war-cry of the Iroquois. They perished where they stood-fell suddenly while their spirits yet + revelled with the distant strife-sank upon the turf before they knew danger was near, and died before a single whoop-or shout went up to speak their rage or agony. Montour and his party had crept upon them warily, and thus they fell. The cabin was en- tered, but Dunbar was not there. They searched every part of the dwelling, but their labor was fruitless-the scout could not be found. Ellen Devron and Elvira Hudson continued te gaze anxiously up the river. That the firing drew nearer, and was more scattering, there could no longer remain a doubt. This was a circumstance that boded little good, for it spoke to the hearts of the maidens of retreat; and re- treat was equivalent to slaughter, rapine and devastation. The day faded away, and the last rays of the setting sun seemed to struggle faintly with the dark smoke of battle, and to be finally quenched by its mephitic vapors..,A gloomy twilight followed, and then night was fairly in the ascendant. A few dropping, irregular shots were still heard, mingled with other sounds, shrill and ominous. "The sad truth is told," said Ellen. "Not a hope of victory now remains to us. Too well do those sounds admonish us that all is lost. Only a random firing is heard ;, the volleys that mark a regular engagement have long pince ceased, and our defenders'are retreating toward the forts. AlasI who can tell us where are those who went out from us not many hours ago-friends, relatives, mutual protectors of our sex." "Not many of them will return," replied El- vira. "And to that painful fact we must try to reconcile our minds." " We may well pause and ask what will be our own fate, children," said Mrs. Hudson. As if tobear unequivocal evidence to this re- mark, a fire shot up from the opposite shore from a dwelling just fired by a savage hand. The flames ate greedily in to the fabric, and by its light several fugitives werd plainly seen for a brief instant pursued by pitiless beings madly elated with victory. From this spectacle they were forced to turn to epntemplate another Wilkesbarre Fort, not far, above them on the same side of the ricer, was ere long in a blaze, and the parties who were unwilling beholders of a sight so terrifying, remembered that many fam- ilies had taken shelter there. Where were they ? Was the leaping fire their winding sheet'?- Was the little stockade their funeral pyre ? They could not answer these questions at first ; but presently they were partially solved, for the glare of the burning fortification revealed the figures of women and children flying to the ad- .jacent swamp, Stone, in his "RHistory+ of Wyoming," elo quently describes the fearful event, and we can. not do better than make a brief quotation from his work. . "Theclosing scete of that memorable drama was in terrible keeping with the bloody acts which, had preceded. Flushed with victory; the savage Senecas still pursued their vi}ms, filling the valley with their wild screams, and rushing onward in overwhelming numbers. The few Americans who escaped the murderous con' fiidt in the field, fled precipitately to Wilkes- barre Fort, where were gathered women and children, waiting the dread issue of the contest' with breathless anxiety. Their return only add- ed to the dreadful consternation already pre- vailing in the fortress. Seized with panic at the idea of being coopedup there with the certainty of meeting a ruthless destruction if they remain- ed, they fled to the mountains, and sought refuge 'a the recesses of a dreary swamp, called after-, ward from the numbers who fell there,' the "Shades of Death." But an enemy was on their track, familiar with swamps, and expert' in threading the deepest fastnesses. They were soon found, when the work of destruction re-. commenced with a fiercer violence. To the few. survivors this was 'a night long to be remema, bered' Behind them theysaw the flames spread- ing destruction through the valley. O one side of them was the battlefield, on which 'lay their brave brethren weltering in their blood. Around them, the agonizing shri& proclaimed that the dreadful carnage was still going on." Ellen and her friends looked at each other in speechless terror. Those whom they expected came not to relieve their dreadful anxiety, oT to guard them from the peril fast drawing upon I ( I 1 }M 1 a E f , ,t3 rl jr , ' - , " . ,f I! 1t At AL 82 tr o 4 s j S s t+t G S l J a (L 4 , N}i x J , i J yt tiri ' " rY c * yg;" y r- ;r a " t .f page: 84-85[View Page 84-85] 84 THE ROYAL GREENS. them, with the sure portents of sweeping them away. They beheld the distance between them and their foes momentarily growing less, and to add to flie horrors of their situation, a fugitive passed near the cabin in full flight, pursued by an enemy, who already exulted in the certainty of success. "It is time to go," said Mrs. Hudson. " Where ?" asked Elvira. " To the woods," was the hurried response. " Hear you not yonder whoops and shrieks, and do you not foresee what our own fate may be there ?" replied Elvira. "We will not fly in that direction; I know of a more secure retreat," added Mrs. Hudson, who, good woman, was resolved to encourage, the maidens as much.as lay in her power, and make them feel, if possible, a hope which was at that crisis a stranger to her own breast--that of final escape. She entered the dwelling and brought thence a small basket of food which she well knew would be wanted' in the wilderness to which she contemplated going. " Ought we not to tarry a short time longer ?" asked Ellen, still lingering. " And for what object ! Let me warn you, child, not to expect too confidently the return- the return of our friend," resumed Mrs. Hudson. "It is impossible for me to abandon the thought that my father will soon appear," added Ellen. * "I know it's hard, but many have parted this day to meet no more in time," returned Mrs. Hudson. " We have lingered too long already. Hush ! did you that ? Some one comes this way-come, girls, come !" They turned from the cabin toward the forest in the rear; but had proceeded but a few yards when - they heard voices behind them. There were several fruit trees at hand, overhung with the green vines of the creeping grape, and amid the verdant foliage, the fair fugitives took tem- porary shelter. CHAPTER XVIII. ELLEt AND ELvInA. , WITH fearful, feverish expectation Mrs. Hud- scious thata shuddering went over her frame son and the two maidens remained in the shrub- when Edward Gaston was mentioned, bery, listening to the sounds that were momenta- "Was he left on the field l":inquired Lana- rily growing more distinct. The voices were way, stepping a little nearer t9 the trees. heard very plainly, and Ellen 'pressed Elvira's "No; Montour, our evil genius, discovered arm convulsively when the well known tone of his dangerous situation and bore him off." Lanaway saluted her anxious 'ears. Nor were " Well, what then happened I" the emotions of Elvira of a more pleasing kind, "I followed him intending to finish my work, when she, in turn, became conscious .that the but unfortunately was seen by Montour just as other party was Martin Secord- he reached the river (for toward the river he "They have fled, evidently," said Lanaway went), and the result was that-that-" to his companion, as both passed near the grape "What ?" vines where the females were concealed; "That I missed my aim,. and in return he "It appears so; so far as I can judge,- I have threw his hatchet at me" (for you know he always reason to believe that they did iot go to Wilkes- wears one) with such precision that it struck me barre Fort, or to Fort Forty on the other side," upon the head and-felled me instantly. I recov- rejoined Martin. ere4 quickly, for the edge of the weapon did not " Perhaps by looking about we can find them, 'take effect, and getting upon my feet, immediate- unless some of their friends have lived to assist ely left the spot." them away," returned Lanaway. "What became of Gaston I" "I can name one or two that were not in a "I cannot tellyou, but it is probable that he condition to aid them," said the other. will not survive this bloody night' Now if we This remark produced powerful sensations in could but discover 'the retreat . of these obsti- the minds of the parties who, were force4 to nate beauties, we might have matters our own hear it. wa e7itirely, for-ot oneof theirkith and kin will "EQaston, as I have told you, receiver from outlive the third of uly" some friendly hand dangerous wound," added "Hard fares it, witht the Yaug the baptisin Secord. of blood has come, But r amiot content; a Ellen who held the band of Elvira, was con- feeling of bitter disapinmen'creeps ovei ie. 6 7 I LS ice' 'YSS' ' f Yr . , I ' 5 }r t; i '4 4 Il.} 7 t S t {i 1 a t ; N a .. r at F 4 s . ( M page: 86-87[View Page 86-87] 86 THE ROYA Muchjmore than I have been willing to own) have my thoughts been directed toward Ellen Devron. Indeed, friend Martin, I feel that it is quite impossible for me to be happy without her," Laid Lanaway, with much emphasis. "Thus is it with me ; Elvira Hudson has en- grossed all the love I am capable of feeling. I may say that I have set my heart fully upon the self-willed damsel. I had hoped (and have in truth acted with reference to that matter) that the events of this day would give mepower over, the person of the girl; but like you I am deeply disappointed. " Our royalist friends are victors, and the rebels are dying by scores, but I con- fes that I am miserable." Ren wished that she could safely assure him that guilt is ever wretched. " Turn your gaze yonder I What do you see ? Wilkesbarre Fort in flames. What do your ears hear? The exultant cries of merciless savages; mingled with the agonizing shrieks of vanquished foes ? But does this content you ? Are you happy in the contemplation of these direful sights and sounds ? Far fruit ; you experience as I do, the unwelcome pangs of baffled hopes and disappointed love. What then avails this awful scene ? To us nothing-to the followers of John Butler much. And why is this scene comparatively fruitless to us? For the reason that those upon whom we have set our. hearts have eluded uts."- "You speak to the point, and I acknowledge that really we have -gained but little, except the punishment of our=enemies.. Dunbar the scout is a prisoner-Gaston is wounded, and doubt- less Devron,, Montour, Hudson, and the Ham- monds will fall. I dare say before this moment they have-lost their scalps. More than this I confess we have not gained, for those who ar- 'vive'this trying ordeal, will forever after hold our name in detestation," answered artin. "True indeed is your last remark,"- thought Ellen. "We shall be called monsters and traitors, no doubt ; but to indemnify ourselves as much as possible for what we shall safer in the future,, leta u make sure of those fair.but perverse ones, who refused to listenuto'refaon, and preferred danger th safety." ' I ilotd lult to say' !ti usumake sure of them,* but we have found ahetly that it is ex- treiule1~yhid o I8o, 'said M$tin. ow aIwi to know that tiey are dot hid- deU iktoe hdi inthe vicinity''' 1 , t. ' L GREENS. " Ill will it fare with them if they are. There are those in pursuit of such, who are keen at fol- lowing a flying enemy, and who will not relent at the contemplation of a pretty maiden, or spare a woman on account of her sex." " Heavens I" exclaimed Lanaway. "I shud- der at the thought of the danger that hangs over the lead of Ellen Devron ; and yet, Martin, I- warned her of it-and-and she scorned me for my pains. I told her that fire would pass over Wyoming, in awful furyg and that. the toma- hawk would do a work of blood ; but indignant, she covered me with reproach." "Whatever betide them, we know for our sat- isfaction that they were warned, and might have been shielded from the devastating storm." "And, methinks, Martin, that we wooed in a novel way ; I doubt whether woman can be won, by threats. When I held before the bright- eyes of Ellen; a picture of woe like the scene now transpiring around us, I was lower in her esti- mation than ever before-immeasurably lower," added Lanaway, bitterly. ' "Flattery has ever proved more effectual than threats, from mother Eve downward to this day. Speak to them smoothly-praise them- for their beauty, and they will smile upon -you ; but approach them'with blunt speech and home- ly truth, and your room will be more desirable than your company." "Let us go ashbrt distance in this direction," added Lanaway. The two royalists, who had been looking.about them with eagerness while thus conversing, now drew nearer the spot where the females were con- cealed,. who, stood, stupified with terror, scarcely daring to breathe. Martin meanwhile passed round tlie-trees,, within a few yards of the trem- bling ones, and putting aside the branches at- tempted to look beneath the vines ; but it was so dark that he saw not the forms of the fugitives. There followed, so far as the latter were con- cerned, a motment-of intense suspense ; then Se- cdrd walked from the -spot ; examining every place within bow-shot where he deemed it possi- ble for a human being to be secreted. Lanaway employed himself in a sinillariaan- ner. Havinagtaken-' an opposite direction, he suddenly stopped and bent his steps directly to- ward the fruit' trees. That the ' fact of their propinquity would tow ;be -known, seemed ar longer a question of doubt ; but while he appear- ed in the very act ofshaking the diedded disco- 0 THE ROYE ery, some lucky chance seemed to prevent the catastrophe. Other incidents now attracted the attention of Lanaway and his companion. Several panting victims closely pursued by the triumphant sav- ages and tories, ran past the spot, hoping to escape the vindictive fury of foes drunken with blood. "We are baffled oncemore," remarked Lana- way; "but perhaps it isn't too late to deal with those who have stood most in our way." "Let us go down to the river; we may find Gaston, Hudson, Montour, De~vron or somebody else there," Martin rejoined, and they instantly hurried away. "Thank kind Heaven, my children, for .you have escaped wonderfully from the power of wicked men.- Come, we must go on." "Speak softly, mother !I- look toward the house I" answered Elvira. " The savages have discovered it, and are searching within for its recent occupants," ob- served Ellen. " What a yell of disappointment! they dis- cern that the inmates have gone. What if they should come this way and look for us-the dis. tance is so short that I tremble ?" added Elvira. One of the natives , appeared with a blazing brand, and proceeded to fire the dwelling in sev- eral places. " So many happy hours have passed there, and now to see it swept away!" sighed Elvira. "Think of those who lose more thanhouses or lands-life itself," said her mother. The fire quickly performed its work upon the cabin; in ten minutes it was wrapped in flame. Occasionally a puff of wind carried the smoke and cinders toward them, rendering their posi- tion almost intolerable. Around the flaming fabric infuriated beings ran, brandishing aloft the' tomahawk and the gun, entertaining, doubtless, a 'faint suspicion that{ some unfortunate one might be hidden in the burning building, whowould rush out to escape a fiery death,: to meet a quicker fate; at their hands. The leaves of the trees nearest the dwelling grew sere and yellow, scorched by the intensity of the heat. The fugitives bgan to suffer from the increased temperature, 'anid ex- pected to be drive i from their covert by aehot, and suffocating gushes of blinding smo that repeatedly poured upon them. Prone uon the earth, with their handkerchiefs pressed' closely to their faces, they awaited in dread expectation, AL GREENS. 87 and with sufferings well nigh insupportable, the uncertain'issue. Added to the torture of the seething vapor that enshrouded them, was the no less agonizing fear of being discovered by the authors of those terrific scenes. Ellen felt a deadly stupor stealing upon her- a painful distension of the lungs-a dizzinessiin her brain-an awful sense of suffocation, which threatened a speedy extinction of life. Sensa- tion, memory, consciousness, grew less and less. Her mind teemed with feverish fancies and fan- tastic creations, as dreadful in their imaginary terrors as the drama, being enacted in the world of reality in which she dwelt. She still heard (within) the shouts ofenemies ; and burning dwellings and dying victims were pictured with life-like distinctness upon the field" of mental vision. Suddenly a sound recalled her from the dark trance that had bound her senses-a voice smote upon her ear with magical effect. She raised herself from the earth with a convulsive effort, and gazing wildly through the smoke and'fire, beheld Roland Montour being down the savages. She had a vague conscious- ness of being lifted in some person's arms and borne.swiftly away. And this circumstance was connected with a feeling of, security, strange, gladdening and soothing to bher perturbed soul. . The re-action was so great that she knew no more, and seemed to exist in a, dreamy, curious and shadowy realm, without pain, without rap- ture, without fear, and yet without;enjoyment. In that suspension of all the active phenomena of existence, Ellen was lost to time, circ imstance, place, the past and present-ceased to hay knowledge -of friends or foes, or the t enacting upon the plainsof Wyoming-one own delightful home, but now the reflex f Pandemonium itself. Yet those friendly arms were about her, her head was pillowed tenderly on a bosom full of unspoken kindness, unuttered 'friendship, untiring devotion, unknown love. "Flower ormy life, so lovely and so lone! Whom I would rather in this desert meet, scorning, and scorned by fortune's power,'than own Her pomp and splendor lavls 6ed at my Ibet; Turn not frain me thy breath, mote exquisite Than odors-east on heaven's oft shrine, to please- 'iem h loveg , gtha luxr more swet Gie etylvta uuymr weAnd more than all the wealth that leads the b e reezdls hp rtm rmIda When Oromande ships return from Lndlan st, If sentiments like these, pure; gentlee and hallowing, had , secret :utterance in Roland's mind, all unknown. were they to the maideni hose f9rmhe bore sesoftly. and apparentlylt so little eaertigg and'so much pleasure, *h i e traversed the tangled forest. s 3 a j t F A ;t i {, i i t ,' J a j rp j tS ,t ' ; page: 88-89[View Page 88-89] 88 THE RO, On a hill the parties, paused and gazed ba upon the valley. It was agrand yet awful spc tale; forts were blazing, dwellings crumbli toashes, and thedemon of partizan fury spread ing his sanguinary wings over Wyoming. " Then looked they to the hills, where re overhung The bandit groups, in one Vesuvian glare; Or swept, tar seen the tower, whose clock unrung, Told legible thd midnight'of despair." Upborne as upon the breath of the devourii lame, came those Bounds that may not again heard this side of the infernal shore, where ml I = i ' 't ; S ' ,_ r f { r tii r } r S r " . t; CHAP! S 4) THE FORTUI IT will be rememberedby the reader, that we le Dunbar in a situation extremely unpleasant an critical ; so much so that a desire to escape mu have been very natural, and the 'means of a taming that was the first thing to be consider Bound and surrounded by watchful warriors he saw but small chance of effecting' a desig upon the success of which his life depended,. But a manlike Dunbar, who had seen so mue of danger and vicissitude, was not easily subdue inspirit and resolution. Many similarly placed v" d have abandoned themselves to despai 'hopeless repinings, without making a single effort t recover lost liberty. Picturseif you can, the scdut's feelings during the'battle. Every volley made him anxious t join inthe melee, and the shouting and cheering of the combatants chafed his temper and render ed him truly miserable under the restraint t which he was subjected. As the tumult of bat tle increased,- so in proportion grew his impa tience. Unable longerto endure the suspense he ragged himself, by much exertion, to th( onl ; 'ndow which the cabin could boast of, to see what tlhe aspect of things might be. Un luckily the window looked from and not toward the seene of battle., He was.greatly surprised to discover that not a single Idian was to be seen on that side of the cabin; in their eagerness t behold the conflict, they had forgotten theirtrust,. LL GREENS. ek cry and maddened hate embody their emotions ec- in direst shrieks. Montour pressed his hot and "The a is lost'!" excl ng tearless eyes, and.unable longer to endure the Weday k it by thesca ud- sightgread out before him, turned to the un- 3 at shaknt b hee a conscious Ellen, and kneeling beside her assisted hl wlfat be the hard as Elynra in her efforts to restore animation. l of e and he wav Grimly and with folded arms the Delaware of I v , chief watched the progress of the destroying roll downward, as I may say, element ; and Lawson, leaning on his rifle, was'oneIneito throw anpret too much affected to speak; while Mrs. Hudson er ng in the lowly attitude of prayer, prayed and wept, hed e be payedforDunbar remained upon the is] be prayed for those who were suffering, wept for dark, at which time the route of is- those who had gone. was complete, as as been sh lower part of Monockonock, he numbers of the vanquished runn bank of the river and leaping int unfrequently followed by severs ages, who discharged their guns TER XIX. they were swimming. It was a 4 island that a whig was slain by' as related by Stone. Dunbar w NES OF DUNBAR. of an act of fratricide so atroei the spot before the crime was pert ft Perceiving the true state of affairs, Dunbar felt his knees the fugitive fell at the id confident that if he could succeed in getting rid natural brother, pleading eloquex st1b of life, but with an unfeeling os st of his bands,escape would be practicable, and he ot ie a t- looked about the rough apartment for some in- . shot him dead. uas d. strurent with which to sever [the cords that Son te Wiksbar swa s, bound him, but could discover nothing of the lndon thilesbarres, n kind. Casting his eyes toward the large stone self for a while in the bushes,' fire-place, he perceived that a little smoke curled the conflagration of the fort. h up from the brands. Working himself to the way toward Hammond's as fas d spot, he blew upon the-smouldering fagots until of the way would permit, for he produced aflame, over which he heldhis wrists feverish anxiety on Hester's r in such a manner as to 'set the'- cords on fire ' would not let him -emain at re e and he had the pleasure of seeing them sowl threatened him at every step. burn off, leaving his hands at gbry ofe When he passed Mr. Hudson broflaighshns-at liberty.' To free flames, and his kind heart was g his limbs was theti'but the labor of an instant the sight; for he thought of i o. and then carefully removing the sash from the cte sho he sou lo b g window, he made a safe exit. Securing a toma-_ cent ones who had so long foewnn hawk that was lying upon the ground near the glare oHe re fi gew o place of his egress, the stout crept from the dan- unare ohe red dore; thing' - gerous vicinage, 'keeping within tange of the' unarmed he- could do a nothing' - cabin for a considerable distance, and then stiik-t m t t ing off to the right, went toward'the river. Know- chance, numbered with the sl e ing how difficult it would be to traverse a field on, sometimes stopping to cone swarming" with eaenies, which he would be the keen eyes of toes, and cast obliged t reach the A ' upon every side, bitterly regrett to d to Amercanline, wichslowness of his progress. W'he were then beginning to waver, he plunged into she of ha thestance the water and swam to Monoekonock Islanpdished at Sal or stane By the time he had accomplished that task, He heard him call to some one r the men of Wyoming had commenced their dis- appard hiendlnes astrous retreat. apparent friendliness. "Is that you, Bill Hammon tai The swimmer replied in the - '"4,. iYA THE ROYAl aimed Dunbar. ttering fire and 'twere. A sad t fare with the es of destruction and before long with perhaps no ' hand around land until after the Americans own. From the was able to see ing down to the o the water, not al tories, or sav- s at 'them while ter reaching this his own brother, as not a witness ous, having left petrated. Upon feet of his un- ntly for the boon ath the monster ,m to the main- d concealed him- where he beheld' [e then made his as the dangers he experienced a account, which st though death 's cabin it was in deeply moved at he 'fair and inno- a a happy- home' reflected in the that alone and for those 'ho at , r already, per- an. He hurried eal himself from ing Wary glances ing the necessary n he had accom' o Hammond's he ding en the bank. in' the water,With affirmative. Wol(7 .o c. K1 I " i L GREENS. 89 " Come back," added Secord, in a friendly tone. "No ; I can swim across the river slid make my escape," rejoined Hammond. "You cannot; the Indians are on the oppo- site side, and they will kill you. Come to me, I will protect-ou. If danger threatens you, I will say you are 'my brother." Believing that Secord was sincere ii his prom- ises, William Ilaamond turned and swam back, and while he was so doing, Martin asked him several questions in the same easy and confident tone; among others _f he had seen Edward Gas'on. When within a few yards of the bank, the young man paused and said: "We were once very good friends, Martin; I hope you bear me no malice" "Don't be a fool-come along i" replied the other. Hammond came. on fully assured. Secord stepped into the edge of the water to receive him, and as he grasped with his left hand the right of his former friend, with the other he bur- ied his hatchet in his head.* For a moment the scout stood.paralyzed with the unutterable perfidy of the act ; then recov- ering his energies, he sprang upon the, guilty villain, and with one blow of his tomahawk laid him at his feet, gasping in the agonies of dis- solution. "Heaven's judgment has overtaken you at last," said Dunbar. "It wasn't at all likely that you would be suffered to live after the commis- sion, of such an awful deed. The fate of Ham- mond you have richly merited; but ipanly soul has gone to a realm of peace where you can't never go ; for heaven would become hell if you went there." Martin opened his eyes and stared wildly at the scout. "You've got what you can't gegeover," added Dunbar. An expression of indescribable terror distort- ed Second's ghastly face. " Water 1" he articulated faintly. The.seput brought some in his lfat and Wet the lips of the dying man. " My doom is fixed, I suppose h etadded, in a voice scarcely above a whisper. " You're dyin' and givin' up ,things of an airthly naturas 'twere," answered unbar. "Death hap tedne before I was ready for it. * see Stone's "lstoryofWyoming," page 219. page: 90-91[View Page 90-91] f : ti t' , " t , _ _ _ isn't there a chance for me yet ?" continued Martin, in the same hollow whisper. "Sich as you are never ready to go when the trumpet of death sound. the retreat from the battle.figl4 of this movt4 state. I can't say what ipd ofquarters you'll nd there-but as good as you've giyen, I presuppe-full as good. As for your chance of livn', I sh'oald say it. is so small that there isn't the least prospect of it whatever.' So give up that i4ea, and try to thinkof the new scenes, as 'twere, now openin' afore your intarnal eyes."' Second groaned and ,cold treitiors shook his frame. He put out 'his hands as it swimming in the air, and then gesticulated wildly as if to some phantom form. "Tell Bill Hammond to go away !" lie explained. "Alas ! unhappy wretch ! he has gone-goneI too far-so far that I shall never see his honest fWce agin; and the prettyNester will weep long- for his absence," rnipunded the scout, brushing a tear from his eye.' - "Can you pray, Dunbar ' asked Martin, with suddenly inspired energy. 1 I have tried to pray now and then for the poor sinner that stands afhre ye, but I can't say that I've been a prayin' man in my time; but I'd advise you toi say 'LoirIhave mercy on' me !' or soinethin like tha=t-it mnaf do you good."- "The Lord have merey on me I" saidsartine in a whisper scarcely audible.' Ae.! n a "Amen I" andggancing again at Secord, Dun- s bar perceived that he had eased to live. i The scout moved on, andin a few moments s ,.asa r Hammonds cbn which was yet un- s 8ahed ,b Indin malinity. s 'he turned i aroed the corner of the dwelling,. he saw a v female form standing at the - window. His step ,a startledl6er; and as she was about to fly, the par- s tiesimtually recognized each other. The female was " -le10Cloud, and she- motioned the scout to a -be silent. Approaching she whispered : w The madeh that you love and who leves fa yen, is in danger.",m There's no sigh person in existence," replied o Duznbar; "but "r you mean' that'-tester Ham- re mond is indanger, show me how and where.' of Pale lbud pointed to the window; Dunbar ti looked in, ae saw Wintermoot and twomen ; ut the fistrd standing over Hester, who had he swoned, dasA s trying to estore her.0O "N o areinfer" he exclainito: r dressing the m men. "D~o nuotwalt for her to revive ; tAgegher wI up just as she is, and let us hurry to Butler's camp." "Iwisi I had-weapons,"'said Dunbar. "Here they are,'' returned Pale Cloud, plac- ing a brace of pistols in his 'hands, The scout . eagerly caught the instruments,'and when Win-, termoot led the way into the open air (followed by the men bearing their insensible burden), he fired both the weapons in rapid succession. Wintermoot and one of his accomplices fell, while the other ran away as fast as possible. Dunbar took Hister in his arms, and bore her toward the forest. "I have been, up to 'Hudson's, but was too late," said Katherine, as she kept along at.his side. "You learned nothing of them as used to make the place so pleasant and cheerful like 1" asked the scout. " No ;' but owing you a debt of gratitude, I hastened to Mr. Hammond's, thinking I could best pay it by offering my services to the maiden whom you aire bearing to place of safety." "Yes, what little you may happen to fancy that you owe me on the score of freeing you front the war-party of Mphawks, can well be settled in that way." "I have heard that you loved her; Roland has- "Hush! for heaven's sake--she revues!'" he exclaimed. "Do not feargo Dunbar. What,,I.have aid is not so profound a secret as you may be inclined to imagine, or will it, perchance, prove o--" ".Be quiet,. woman!1 Do you not see, that she s becoming conscious of what is said? and I wouldn't for the world have her hear sich absurd otions, as I may say'," added Dunbar, with con- iderable sharpness. Pale, Cloud directed her attention to Hester, ad she.was soon sufficiently restored to walk ith the aid of Dunbar's arm to support her ; or she dad passed through a scene of excite- tent so intense thpt it had nearly deprived her f physical power. Calmly and trustingly she signed herself to'the guidnce and protection f the scout, refraining from asking those ques- ons Foucerning her friends that struggled for teratce in her breast, fearing that she should ear news of deription to increase her trials. f the death of her brother, Dunbar made no ention, reserving that sad recital for a season hen she should be better able to bear her grief. V V It 90 THE ROYAL GREENS. t t 4 rt N : i1 f l..y' t. t s {a i tai _ + {I_ tf Qf_ ; ^y'"" r'" {r , _: t t P it i S % 1 4 ii s i' .r r1 I IM f THT EOYAOAGERNB. The present consideration to escape from delicate and tender of 'em, and I thank you," he the valley and find a spy p safety, and not to replied, in a tremulous voice. dwell upon the calamities 41d& each or all had! "Does thee love me, David !" asked Hester, suffered. turning her pale yet placid face toward Dunbar's. " I am at home in these woods," said the "I never was a man to tell an untruth, and scout, " and you need feel but little fear of pr- let what will come of it, I can't now, even to es- suit. ' Before midnight I will show you a hid- cape your displeasure, Hester. I confess that I ing-place, where not one of the heathen can find have so far forgotten myself, and been so incon- us ; and that is a great deal to say in an hour siderate, blind and foolish, as to love you as if like this." you wasn't common flesh and blood, but some- "I feel safe with thee, David," said Hester. thin' pure, angelic, and unairthly like." "You might be safe with him for a whole life- time,"Dunbar bowed his head as he was making this time," said Pale Cloud, confession, and his chest heaved convulsively. " I would defend her to the last," he earnestly Hester madef no answer, but laid her little added.HetrTaenoasebtlihe-lte dI would that your lives could pass together, hand in his rodghstrong one, and then hid her "I oul tht yur ivs culdpas toethrblushing tearful face in Pale Cloud's- bosom. and the current of your joys and sorrows flow on bar stoodhembirassed, Palexed confound- in one common stream," resumed Pale Cloud, Dunbar sod 'dise n perplexed, maidn's turingandplainga andupo a~rm.ofed. He could 'disceru no anger in the mnaiden's turning and placing a hand upon ayahof manner, heard no reproaches, saw her hand You do wrong" returned Dun, sorrow. lyig passively in his, and looked imploringly at "odowog;"rtredDnK, sro atherine for an -explanation. The comely fully, and even sternly, " to speak so freely-be- half-rie f , an gaaon The firsl fore Miss Hammond. Whatever my feeling's half-breed smiled, and gradually and for the first have been toward her, I have kept 'em to myself time, the idea that he was loved in return forced and have never troubled her with my foolish itself upon him. ris face flushed with hope, weakness. But now you have thoughtlessly and and carefully he imprisoned the littlehand- unkindly betrayed to her what I wouldn't have held it tenderly, hesitatingly had her know for the wealth of the king of Eng- "If I dared to hope that I am forgiven," he land, as 'twere. MissaHester, I hope you'll pass said, slowly, and with a penitent voice. it oer, and not lay it up aging her, nor think the "You' are more than forgiven, returned Pale less of me for it, because':she's excited, as I may Cloud: "Have you nut eyes except for the trail, ay, with the scenes of this, deadful night, and no perep ons save for the:approach of an doesn't-well understand what she's talking' of." enemy r "I have nothing to forgive, David,"' returned " Dunbar ,drew Hester gently toward him, and Miss Hamnond, quietly. as her dark, shining tresses fell upon his breast " alikeyou, qMiss Hester you never dideeycla.med: wantonly hurtatperson'sfeelints, but waslers 1"0themisery, the happiness of this night! 91 , I) ML Y L 6 e lo a . a page: 92-93[View Page 92-93] i"tr 2 :'! L 4 tion, with their inhuman orgies. Welldid Queen Esther perform the work of that memorable .night: Passing -around the circle, chanting a wild, startling air, half, shriek, half howl, she dealt her-blows at measured periods. Every in- stant Hudson sawthe priestess of death approach- ing nearer to his friend Hammond, and he long- ed to do something to save him. He had'his loaded rifle in his hand, and no longer capable of restraining his indignation, horror andsympathy, he aimed at the female monster,, through an opening in the circle. Sharply cracked the weapon, and the crimson queen fell upon the body of her last terrible of- fering. The confusion created by this incident gave Hammond a chance to recover his feet, shake off the murderers and escape. Hudson fled and no pursuit was offered, for the savage actors were quite sated and satisfied with what they had already done. In crossing the river, far down below, he dis- covered Edward Gaston. still in the canoe, which had lodged against a log. With Ham- mond's assistance he was taken to the shore, and conveyed to the woods, were by chance, they fell in with Montour, while he and Elvira were directing their attention to the restoration of Ellen. Soon after the parties were joined by Cato, who, true to his trust, was assisting Mr. Devron to a place of security. ( I ) THE ROTA Our next and last scene Ope at the subter- ranean vault in the mountaldi The sun came up as brightly as though no deeds of wicked- ness had been wrought in the valley of Wyo- ming. The winds were as soft and fragrant as if they had never borne the odor of, blood, or the cries of despair. The wild birds sang cheerily in the trees, and there was no sound of misery there. Roland Montour stood near the rift,' with Ellen leaning upon his arm. The maiden looked pale and languid, but not unhappy.. The young man placed his hand upon hers, some- what timidly, and said in a low tone : 1' The few words- which I wished to address to you I will say at once, and I hope you will not reprove me too severely form temerity. It is true that a kreat calainity hdi befallen the valley-a calamity that oppresses all'hearts ; but I trust that you will not consider it "ill-tined, when I allude to the feelings which your beauty and amiability have'inspired." . Ellen's face suddenly changed its pallor for a rich crimson hue. "It may with some plausibility be said, that my acquaintance with you is short, but methinks no measured period of time is required to win the human heart-to smite the rock of human affection and make its purest waters gush forth, I have smothered my passion long-I can re- strain myself no longer, and an compelled, by a sentiment that'I am certain will be as lasting as life itself, to make this bold and perhaps un- welcome declaration." - Montour paused, and' Ellen averted her face in such a manner that he could not see its eXpression. " I am grateful that you hear me thus patient- ly and kindly. I ought to reflect that you know but littleof my history, and that the son of a-" "Ialf-breed," added a voice near at hand. RolInd looked to his right and saw Pale Cloud at hi fide.- "Behold my mother !" said Montour, as Kath- erine drew near and took Ellen's unresigting 'hand. The maiden , gazed into, the woman's face a ugorient with' deep interest, and-replied:, "And do you believe, Roland Montour, tha ,I could think less of you for confessing'. thisfair creature for your mother-a being whose every feature speaks of goodness,,-kindness, gentle- ness, and purity ofF'soul Ah, sir, you have mistaken. my nature,.if you imagined s Lo. eov is born in the female heart independent of birtd and outward circumstances; it lives there in'its 1) LL GEENs. 93 strength, independent of all such considerations, 'stronger, infinitely stronger than alt" "May I, dare I flatter my heart with the rai- turous thought that at some-future time, I may presume ,to-la some slight claim to the En'iA sgr of Ellen Devron?" Thee.aiden sighed, inclined her head gently, and attemptedtto make some fitting reply, but could not. Roland construed her silence in a most favor- able light, and withwquickness which would have appeared. quite inagical to honest Dunbar, who, good soul, had no conception of such interest- ing matters, save what 'he had'learned upon the trail. While Montour was .making all tie natural efforts that he could command to express his un- expected felicity, Pale Cloud uttered a piercing shriek and fell to the ground ; or more truth- fully would have fallen, had' iot Lawson sprang forward, from the shadow of thCeadjacent rock, and caughtiier in season to prevent that accident. Here was a new wonder for Roland, and lie looked at the, strange scene with unfeigned astonishment. "It's, what, I allers thought," said Dunbar, emerging from the rift. " It's Zinzendorf, himself!"- - " 'And who is Zinzendorf ?" asked Montour, quickly. f Ican't reckon youamong the wise children, because you: don't know your ,own father, as 'twere," replied the scout.. Pale Cloud revived, and opening her, eyes,,was conscious that she sawno phantom figure. ." Zinzendorf 1" she mirmurgd,.and seemed on the point of relapsing again- into insensibility ; but water which Ellen sprinkled;en, oher face restored her. f' This seems dream-like and unnatural !" ex- claimed Lawson. "I have mourned yon as dead or many years." "And i toe I not lept for you as long?" re- plie4 Katherinein trembling accents. "The report reached me that you had perish- ed y the hand of the Mohawk who carried you into captivity. I was not able to leave rrmany at that time, forIbad 'just been thrown' into prison on account ofreh ious sentimtet5 which I had avowed, having been betrayed by a faise friend. I sent a ntto look after burcild, 'who returned with him, confirming in ull the accounts which I had previously recelivedof your death. laid was put- to school, while I re- Mu. HUDSON, whose name has not yet been particularly noticed in connection with the bat- tle, fought in the right wing and was among the last to leave the field. Being hotly pursued, he diverged from the general course of the fugitives, nor paused until he had left his foes far behind. He stopped about'two miles north of Fort Forty, and concealed himself in a young, growth of birch. -But though so distant from the scene of conflict, he was by no means in a position free from danger,;and was obliged to remain perfect- ly quiet to escape discovery. It was while thus *den, that he was forced to be an unwilling *ftness of a most cruel spectacle-the tragedy of, what has since been called "Queen Esther's Rock." A number of prisoners, quounting in all to sixteen, were taken to that spot to be offer- ed as sacrifices to savage malice. The Senecas, I Mohawks and Onondagas, formed a circle around the rock, when the victims were brought for- ward and arranged about it in a mournful ring. A fire was'burning brightly near the spot, and by its light Hud'son was able to recognize many of the doomed ones ; among them he saw Mr. Hammond, Hester's father. A weird and horrible-looking squaw, with a war-club, commenced the work of destruction; while the , warriors laughed, danced, leaped, shouted, and made the hourawful beyond des rip- CHAPTER XX. AFTER TEARS, SMILES. S 'z3rS s ', +k y I ta , 41' A xL ai page: 94-95[View Page 94-95] ' t 1 94 THE ROYAL GREENS. . X -QYLGENS naiped in durance several years, not leing per- mitted to ses him, a .not ring o;ernow- lplge a relationship, for fear such u cdifssion wpuld bring ,dwn upon hia the' evil fortune Sat had followed me. he boy r weary of confinement, apdleaving isb bpo oudu neas get back to his native frests, e ,ri justice la b'ea done me, I crossed the water and arrived here a few month ago, ' inee ich' timnq I have ;taken an indescrilablg pleasur- id' being near our son and Watcling gverim with ~afther'fpngness, to tield him from danger, wtJ out divulging the secret that made hirm the qbjRct of mytender splicjtude. Several time I have been on the point of6telling him the impor- tent secret, and folding him ,to the, osom from which he, has een4o long estranged by the force of circumstances, the virulence of religious' intolerance and partizan policy.' "A dark matter cesing put verytright," said, Caetanegg; vho: had joined the group. Rolan advanced, andZ inser9 embraced hus. . . ..,' "'The ag et who took Xoland to Germany (I learned after I returned from mycaptivity), reported! that yoiu:iwere dead;, and therefore I ceased to= expect you retui-," said the I'ale Cloud. It is probably knodato you, that I 'was formerly a missionary to the Delawaresl'e add- ed Laws ,'addressingRoland. "eoAinog'them I sand loved Katharine Montoerrl"your mother, .to whom I was privately 1aurried by a dod Mbrsijiian Mreacher. She bore her smaiden name idiil afte' yed Wrusheredinto the world, wheti those vist h pined which aseparated us fI a long lpst'of'ear; ard prevented the tAtt f.mi beco ii 'khawnthe we had ever been arried. Heaven has at length, in a mostsey- traordiinhry saiid unexpected maaier, fe-united ' u ahd'joyoese °r'athe emotionS' ljeh this event produces." I nowcabewwhy, btutook the lnost danger' Quts side *lile we *#e taversing the battle- field,,,RBolid remarked.' " Iavebennear you ofte," resumed Law- so t ;whyyouhittletheught that a friendly ey hinj ,ver yon. 'ht empl6iment aai. t, ' o pe ased me for toe qktit est"neto mntain y14c n4ito- f j;'s9p ar fancy of wayward, he ip~ and graeless youth," an- swered "Then ie's yo different from wha't I have. I've known you a long time, and seen you at your worst as well as at yourbest ; and, yu'rq th nan for me, whether in war, orpeace, on the ira 1r offd excla md, Dunbar, with energy. r Ia to a m of yoursterling integrity bear such nequivocal testimony to his character, and I impreud ghat I have snch a son," replied Zinzenlof. " Dutiful and kind has he been," added Eah- erine, with a grateful: look at the subject of her eulogium. " aven'thensp blind as you might nater- ally sappos' resumed Dunbar, speaking to Zinzendo fr "I've noticed more than once,.that you appeared,, fond of the lad, and cast curious glancesas I may say, at him, when he wasn't aware of it. I've been trin'to study, it out since te first time I saw ,yonl together, but I wasn't able to make much out of it,na,'twere." " 'or could you, well do so, as the whole affair has been wrapped in so much mystery," he returned. "Look very muck alike," said the Delaware, laconically. The parties; thgn entered the cavern, where Cato; badki die4 afire unpreparedd a mornmpg meal, which w , by' in means. unworthy.the, name of breakfast. This repast, though discuss- ed in a style somewhat primitive . was highly relished by all, not excepting the-two wounded nenm-Devronsand asten. The ,sub-mountain retreat had been provided with many articles of ,conveniene:by dlrabar and Montour, who had foreseen that it.would probably be wanted for uses like;that, which itwas then subserving. i that: seedra'hiding-place, the survivors of the massace f yf ningremained ireeaske and safety, until the invaders , had withdaWu fom the'valley. , + Roland and Dlunbar wre wedded to the iee- speetio qJetetf their-nhoife, befoi they-left their syalsi-home; by Zinzendorf,4ho w-as q(alinfed to peroru that interesting ceremony. Edid Gatstoi'would gladly havn followedtheir 4*ample, but his Wounds 'were not yet healed, rand he as'obliged to' *ait a" mosutik lnget- e'.i'disajpointmenttoihtn, no duht." he fod yeisa\Geeal SSuivasahie 4'trie vlue a±' "a & s tht 'the u y, 4%h a large force, to the getlakes, ''farfu vengeance on those who participated u, the in- vasion. Both Roland and the scout attached themselves to a detadhment of Morgan's riflemen under Colonel Parr, and distinguishedthem selves by their gallant deeds. That Ellen was unhappy during the absence of her liege lord; and that Hester was equally miserable on Dun- bar's account, isestrictly true, as we learn from authentic documents, which can yet be seen- providing they can be found ! Zinzendorf and Katherine resided in Wyo- ming until death relieved them of the cares and anxieties of this changeful world; but during their lives they enjoyed the society of Roland and their fair daughter-in-law, and experienced as much of sublunary happiness as usually falls to the lot of mortals. 95 Peace came with her innumerable blessings, and scattered flowers in the pathway of Roland and Ellen. A newand more commodious dwell- ing was reared on the site of the old one, and for many summers Mr. Devron was seen sitting in the sunshine in front of the door, with a cheer- ful, happy face; while Cato was never far off, but ready to attend to his wants with alacrity. Just above, lived the Scout of the Susquehanna; the most honest and contented of men, with his loving bride Hester Hammond--the fairest and most loyal of wives. "0, Love! In such a wilderness as this, Where transport and security entwine, Here is the emp'f thy perfect bliss, And hetea thoee a god indeed divine. Here shall no f ns abridge, no hours confine The views, the walks, that boundless joy Inspire! Rol on, ye daysofrapturedianfluence, shine!' Nor, blind with ecstacy's celestial fire Shall love behoMt spark of'earth-born time expire." } THE END. ,A ''9. 4L~ ' =R { 1 r At SY # '4 t y c r 4 1 '.J MW X lik . s. yx , ,' S , 4 1 'J , 7 d tk { page: 96-97[View Page 96-97] "1 }! - S PROM "THE FLAG OF OUR UNION."] THE CASTLE AND THE CRUCIBLE. BY JAMES DE MILLE. CHAPTER I. the alchemist, but his face and form spoke of one who had braved many dangers, and was THE C RU CI B LE. still capable of meeting any with fortitude. He MICHAEL SCHWARTZ sat before his crucible, was poring over a strange manuscript, written and with a heavy brazen pestle he pounded up in times long past, with mysterious figures mark- together a quantity of materials. - The chamber ed along the margin. After a while he impa- which he occupied was situated in an upper story tiently threw it down. of a house in Heidelberg. It was small, and "Schwartz," said he, with the air of one used around its walls were hung many mysterious in- to command, " what is the use of all this struments. There were jars of grotesque shape, why need the adepts,-if there be anything val- andstrange utensils-there wereretorts and stills, able in their knowledge-to lock it up in such mortars and furnaces. These were all arranged mysterious writings ." loosely, and in some places, lay all mingled in " Ah, son," said the other, calmly, " it is on confusion. A brazier filled with burning coals account of its value that we take such pains to stood upon a tripod beside him, and over it hung conceal our knowledge from the evil gaze, or a vessel in which some substance was heating. careless eye. When you have a jewel, you do s v l lki not show it everywhere, but keep it safely, and man. His head was covered with hoary hair, expose it only to the few who can admire it." and his snow-white beard descending to his gir-. "Very well-but where is the. elixir vitae, die, gave him an air that inspired every beholder and where is the philosopher's stone I For ages with awe. Hi drs was a lon garment thrown it has been sought'after." loely about him, ad a strange cap was placed " We must still segk patiently for the great' about his head. j arceanum. Some have arrived near to it. I abon another part of the chan~ber sat a young think-I hope-that there is one who, before he man not more than twen 4lve yeai-a of age. dies, will find it-" He was also dressed in a * ' similar to that of " What ! Can you hope it ?" "I have discovered things as wonderful." "As wonderful as the elixir vitce ?" ; " What would you say-were you- to see water burning, or if you should see. air consumed ? What would you say if I weg to1 cut off your leg or the leg of an animal, without any pain to the subject ?" "Impossible ! water and air burning? Impossible !" " We keep these things secret. I have found many myself. I tell them to none but a few who can also keep them. Besides, of what value are these, to-the grand mystery of all ?" "If you can-do all that you have said, then.I may almost believe in the gran4,mystery. But, I cannot believe it-water burn? impossible !" " I can, with a few grains of black sand, make thunder and lightning, which wou.4 IgQw this house in which we are, to a thousand pieces." "You? a man ! you make thunder and lightning ?" "I can," replied Schwartz, with the same in - perturbable calmness.. "I am the first who found out the secret. But if you wish, I will satisfy your curiosity. Be attentive, Albert, and your wonder will be aroused." So saying, he took down a jar from one of the shelves, which was tightly sealed. "What is in, t ?"-n "Nothing. 'Feel it-shake. it. It is full of air. Watch white I take out the stopper.}" He took it out, and turned the jar. Nothing came out. Albert saw nothing ; ~:but moment after Schwartz passed a lighted brand through the air before the jar, and a vivid, flash blinded the eyes of Albert ; for what seemed the air which he breathed, had turned tofire with a hid- eous explosion. " See-the air can be consumed ! Now look at this !" said Schwartz, taking another jar that was filled with liquid. What would you say if I were to burn it?" " Burn it? Impossible !" Schwartz touched it with a. brand, and in- stantlyit flamed, it blazed furiously and fercely, "What? holy virgin! the liquid burns !"1 cried Albert. "Ah, son Albert, there are many wondrops things in my science. I raye shown your some-! already. I can show you some more still, But hark ! a knock. Some onecomes" Schwartz went to the deor,aigd opening it,. admitted an aged man dressed mint be coasume of a noble. - : , . "Count Hohenfels-welcome ! thrice wel- come i" cried Schwartz, to his noble'visitor. I did not expect you in ipy poor cell." "How do you progress ?" "In the smaller serets,--wonderfully. I have found out the key to many prodigies of nature. I have discovered great things-to make-" "But, no. I caernot for them. How in the great one-the Arcanum-" "I am getting nearer to it. A week ago I had it, but the two liquids united and went off in Are. If I could but reduce that fire to solid--" ." You would have it ?" "I would ; for you must know that. gold is solid fire-the essence of flame-" "You talk, wildly-but I pardon it. Your adepts. are always carried away by your secret arts. But Icomehere for the purpose of asking you to Stamberg,,a-small castle which belongs to me, I am going, to the diet. My daughter and her maids, with a few soldiers, have left Hohenfels for the retirement of Stamberg." "0, thanks, thanks ! I will find .everything there, and can.go at once. But I have one re- quest. I wish this youth, my assistant, to go with me." ".By all means.. You may bripg a hundred !" cried Count Von Hohenfels, warmly. "Thanks, thanks !" muttered Schwartz; and after a few more words from his'visitor, who also examined some instruments carefully thadept and his scholar were left alone. CHAPTER [I. TIE CASTLE. In the midst of a lovely country where the scenery on every side was grand epd exalting in' the ;extreme, stood the castle of Stamberg. It was small in size, and consisted of a square structure with a courtyard in the midpt., There were no walls around - itbut its line massive front rose, up high ,from. the grogn#, and the structure was flanked at every corner by strong towers. Dills rose up behind, but a deep gully inter- vened, whose steep sides consisted of a vast growth. of tangled, shrubbery of every kind, among which a tree occasionally rose.. Beneath flowed a small torrent, which a few miles below widened and ,emptied into the ,this., Before,,lay an extended plain, covered with a dense~forest. In clear ah cultivated spot, the THE CASTLE AND, CRUCIBLE. 97 , ' , page: 98-99[View Page 98-99] THE dASTLE A1cD' CRPCIBLE winding of a river' might be seen, flowing on along the -fertile borders, yielding gladness' all around. The-forest camB'tifto within a mile of the castle, and then stopped, and lovely mead- ows, green fields,' and aventeus of stately trees appeared between. Such was the situation of'Stamberg, one of' the sniitller castles of the CoutVmn Hohenfels, and here his daughter had cotie to pass thetime of his absence in enjoying the beauties of Nature, which lay all-around. A smallgarrison of abo-t' thirty men were there' as a guard, and these ac- companiedher when she wenit out, hovering near her to protect her from those dangers which: in those days were of frequent occurrence. "Upon- such a scene did 'the Lady Adele gaze, as she looked forth from the uppermost terrace. "How beautiful !" she cried. " Howfresh the air is as it comes dver yonder'tistant hills !" As she spake the sun cast a shadow before'her, and she turned. "Ha, the young magician I" she exclaimed, while a slight blush mantled her face. Albert bowed, and stood apart at a respectful distance. "Can you hunt?" she said, to him. I can, fair lady. Many a boar has fallen by my hands. But'you will not hunt to-day ?" "Why not ? I havenot yet been outside the castle." ' "Lady, there is danger. The Count Storlach hates your father. The castellain tell me that he is hovering about here." "The Count Storlach ! He would not dare- My father is the Lord of Itohenfels. Youth, you have the spirit of a serf, and are a coward, in spite of your boasts." A deep flush, dyed the cheeks of Albert. He clenched his hands." Thelad'y turned away as though she would Snot notice him.1 At lengh'she spoke. "Gotell the casstllaitifti ge tready the men and arms, for'I will have'u boar hunt." Albert bowed; and withd'rw.r a hisioble 'youth !""murmured Adele, gazing this retiring figure. "Who can he be ? He ;; cspnot be'a base-brin serf. How came he with the maglcian" Perjile~id by curiosity, she steod there;andt n lexgthdparted'to donher huniting garments. Two hours elapsed, and at fs'the'deep tones of the castle belt and'the 'siotes o'thew "idwet's horn sinsibhd'all to the hint. 'Up wen' the peirteullis,'sadinde'fleW'thegat'e : Te whole comp - departed, and the castle was left with but t F defenders. f M as a gallant sight, as the hunting party rode ragIdlj down toward the plain. The~Lady Adele was at the head. Beside her, and a little way behind, roderlAlbert.'On they went, and disappeared behind a distant hill. Son the loud tones of a trumpet broke 'the silence, and proclaimed that the chase 'was start- ed. Away they went. The boar ran with won- drous speed. Adele and Albert were close be- hind him, while the others were far away. Another was started. It ran toward the castle, and the other hunters- turned from the first to pursue the second. . " Ha 1" cried Albert, suddenly. " What's thip ? Th~e bear is nowhere to be seen !" "He ran behind yonder rock." ' "But where is he now? Gone ! I see him not." " And where are my men ?" said Adele, sud- denly, and for the first time turning to look. " Men? why-by the holy virgin ! they are all gone-the wretches !" He seized his horn, and bleW aloud, long blast No answer was returned, except the rustling of the wind among the forest trees, and the wild echo of the sound among neighboring rocks. " Gone-truly. They have forgotten who is their mistress. This boar has escaped us. We must-returne" " How far may the castle be from here, lady ?" " Three miles. But sound your horn again. Some of my mn may be near me." Albert again sounded his horn. As the tones tied away in the distance, the blast of another was heard close beside them. Adele started. That is not one of the castle horns." Again'Albert blew his horn. As lie took it 'from his moth, a man' at arms came riding round a projecting rock. He saw them and stopped. "Storlach !" cried Adele. Suddenly the man pu spu''s to his horse, and rode'down swiftly, uttering a wild "hallo t." "'Tis one of Storlach's men. See you not his arma ?" "Snrtend r !" criedrthe stranger, in a loud voice, shaking hls spear t Albert. ;' " Surrender?" should Albert, scornfully. S1)og i'who afe'yoi that eaks thus ?" 'The soldier rushed'ljuriddsly at him. Albert wheeled his horse, escaped the blow, and the next-moment his boar spear quivered in the al diet's heart. He fell, and as he touched . earth, another trumpet note was'lleafd'and from behind the same rock a troop of horsemen came rushing down. "Fly! fly!1" shouted Albert. Away they went, with the speed of the wind. The horses of the two were of the ,nest Spanish breed, brought thence by Hohenfels, and they left behind them the infuriated foe. Shouts fol- lowed them, and the hoarse voice of Storlach himself was heard commanding them to stop. Albert turned, waved.his bloody spear in tri- umph, and again fled. toward the castle. There it'stood-but a mile away. The gates were open, but no man appeared uponthe walls, Nearer-nearer they ,came. No men, could be. seen except the solitary warder. Albert's heart beat with fierce anxiety. " Holy virgin ! The fool of a castellain and his men will be intercepted by Storlach," he mur- mured, as he saw far away a troop of the men of Adele. On they went. They approached the castle. They rushed in. Down went the port- cullis, and swiftly the gates' were closed by the strong hand of Albert. " Great heaven !" cried Adele. " They have not cone home, and Storlach--" "Fear not, lady !" cried Albert. Fear not, but trust in Heaven. While I wield a sword, Storlach shall not enter." "Alas ! what can we do here ?" ", The situation is strong." "But Storlach will know that there are no defenders." " How ? The others may escape." ' "Impossible ; but I will see." - They went to the top ofthe keep, and looked down. There appeared. the -men of Stamberg, pursued by Storlach. The troop:of the latter numbered at least. three hundred. The men of Adele fledfaraway,inthe directionto Heidelberg. Albert and Adele watched them long. At last Storlach finding himself far from the castle, returned, and in about an hour the enemy were assembled on the plain below. I1I CHAPTER IM'. THE VAULTS. .$ecswartz, in his lonely chamber, knew noih ing of all the events of the day. Evening was coming. The foe was at the castle, but the adept ' bent over his crucible and worked as before. "Schwartz !" said a voice. Suddenly turning, he saw Albert. "Ah, you have come here at last, have you ? The great secret has no charms for you." " I have other business. Schwartz, the castle will be. taken to-norrow. In enemy is before it. The Lady 'Adele will be carried off by a ruffian. If Nature has any valuable secrets, this is the time to show it. ' Think, Schwartz. Pon- der over your stores of knowledge. Devise some plan whereby all these may be- destroyed, or at least some way in which *e may be saved." Schwartz was silent. '" Ha! hive you nothing? -Foolish old man ! Of what avail is alltiudr'knowledge ?" "Peace, son. An enemy? The Lady Adele 'taken?" "Yes, yes," cried Albert, impatiently. '4Albert; I have that which is powerful enough to send all these enemies to perdition." " Have you ?" cried Albert, in delight. " Since my coming here, I have been making great quantities of the powerful substance. -Did I not say I could make thunder and lightning ?" " You did-but you cannot." " See here, incredulous youth ; this is the substance in' which lies the :power of the thunderbolt." He took some black substance from a crucible near him. Albert looked. He laid itupon the table and touched it with a coal. A blinding flash, and a loud explosion followed. "Albert, I have large quantities of this in the vaults beneath. Count Hohenfels knows its power. I have shown it to 'him." " Well." " The enemy will attack us to-morrow. To-. morrow.you shall, see them all cold in- death. But take you the Lady Adele. Fly to yonder height on the other side of the gully. Be there by dawn, and you shall see some of my power. The warder shall stay with me. We willjoin you early." And the adept again turned to his crucible. Through that night Schwartz and the warder were busy in the vaults,.. They lay beneath the courtyard of the castle. ,There were largo ves- sels filled with great quantities of a strange, black substance. It was the first time in many years that the warder had entered here, for the !ceunt was careful about the vaults, and never permitted any one to visit them. In front of the castle, Storlach was encamped with his men. As he knew not the number of 98, THE CASTLE AND CRUCIBLE. 99 : k e Nt page: 100-101[View Page 100-101] TM C ,T , .ND RTICIBLBF, those within the castle, he concluded to wait till morning and then make'his attack. Morning game. The first streaks of light as- Ceed frn the .eastern horizon ind gradually the sombre shadoyl -departedgiadually the dawn came on. .tTpon thi summit of a wooded height,'on the other side of the gylly,;A Bert and- Adele stood. At midnight they had leti -the cas- tie, and from this; bill they could gaze unseen upon the castle and the foe. As the sun rose, a trumpet spunded in Stor- lach's camp, and so9p..l were in Inotig. The. soldiers rose and donned their armor and girded on their apns4 Then, at tb second signals the whole troop mstrched in order toward the castle, No' one could be seen, eithe;, on the walls, or within any turret. Not a sound could be heard, not the slightest sign of life could be discovered. " Thereis some trick here l" cried Storlach. "Be careful-be wary, my men. herald, do your duty." 'of] " I summon this - castle to surrender, in the name of. Count Reinrich von Storlach, Lord of Stdrlach and Dowenstein.",..., i No answer came. All,was still. Three times the herald sounded, and made his summons. Thep Storlach grewnimpatient. "On, my soldiers ! We will teach them the danger of despising -s," With a loud shout the whole troop poured through the gate into -the court- yard, The inner castle ddors were closed. Storlach shouted : " Open the doors !" No an- swercame. His men with their heavy halberds began to thunder upon; them. Four persons stood on the height beyond. Besides Albert and Adele, there was the. old warder, -and Schwartz. As the noise of the sumtntlsi and the sounds of blows camelto their ears;, they gazed with intense anxiety.' "The hour is nearly up '"muttered Schwartz.. " Surely the fire has almost reached-" aitddenly, with awful vividness-as though a hurricane had burst.upon them-with blinding, dazzling brilliancy, burst forth a flash of light-. streaming, pouring, upward and around,hi al directions from the'castle. A deafening noise followed,-a noise as deep and awful as'thie roar of' thunder. Large masses of stones and beams; of doors and gates, unshapely fragments of work and tiron ar*, mingled all together nechatic mass, were hurled' into the air. en were inhrov nup, and torn to pieces by the ter e power of the explosion.' The massive walls and lofty towers trembled, and fell head= long down. When the volumes of thick smoke rolled away nothing was left of the castle of' Stamberg except a black and fearful ruin. Messengers were sent by Adele from -Hohen. 'fels to her father. He returned, and when he heard of all that had passed, his gratitude and joy knew no bounds. And what, brave youth, can I give to you as a reward for delivering my daughter from Stor- lch ? Speak!" said het to Albert, who stood' modestly apart with a large, mantle wrapped around him. Albert walked up towards the beautiful Adele, who stood confused and anxious. "Count Hilbert von Hohenfels, you think me a serf-a low-born vassal to some poor knight., I am not so. In me-" And as he spoke, the mantle was loosened from him. "In me you see Alberto Colonna-head of the most princely house in Italy!" The mantle fell. He was dressed in richest armor. " Colonna! you Colonna! an Italian ?" " Even so. I had heard of the famous adept, Michael Schwartz, and cameto Germany for.the purpose of learning some of his science. I am soon to return. Count Hohenfels, you wish me to name my reward. Here is -all I ask." And he took the willing hand of Adele. " Take her, Colonna. = Take her, and with her my blessing.' You have won her. You deserve her, and: the princely. cpronet of Colonna could not deck a fairer brow than that of' my daughter Adele von Hohenfels. Schwartz found not the elixir vita. Immortal- ity he could not gain in the way he wished, but through the despised black substance he won everlasting fame, and immortality of another kind. For among the great names of the mid. die ages, none is more widely known than that of Michael Schwartz, the inventor of gunpowder. THE FEND ((1Q0' 1 4-
