charming
daughter, now, to approve of such sentiments, I'm certain; her character
for discretion being already well established in the garrison, short as
has been her residence among us."

"Sergeant Dunham's daughter is scarcely a fitting interlocutor in a
discourse between you and me, Lieutenant Muir," rejoined the captain's
lady, with careful respect for her own dignity; "and yonder is the
Pathfinder about to take his chance, by way of changing the subject."

"I protest, Major Duncan, I protest," cried Muir hurrying back towards
the stand, with both arms elevated by way of enforcing his words,--"I
protest in the strongest terms, gentlemen, against Pathfinder's being
admitted into these sports with Killdeer, which is a piece, to say
nothing of long habit that is altogether out of proportion for a trial
of skill against Government rifles."

"Killdeer is taking its rest, Quartermaster," returned Pathfinder
calmly, "and no one here thinks of disturbing it. I did not think,
myself, of pulling a trigger to-day; but Sergeant Dunham has been
persuading me that I shall not do proper honor to his handsome daughter,
who came in under my care, if I am backward on such an occasion. I'm
using Jasper's rifle, Quartermaster, as you may see, and that is no
better than your own."

Lieutenant Muir was now obliged to acquiesce, and every eye turned
towards the Pathfinder, as he took the required station. The air and
attitude of this celebrated guide and hunter were extremely fine, as
he raised his tall form and levelled the piece, showing perfect
self-command, and a through knowledge of the power of the human frame
as well as of the weapon. Pathfinder was not what is usually termed
a handsome man, though his appearance excited so much confidence and
commanded respect. Tall, and even muscular, his frame might have been
esteemed nearly perfect, were it not for the total absence of everything
like flesh. Whipcord was scarcely more rigid than his arms and legs, or,
at need, more pliable; but the outlines of his person were rather
too angular for the proportion that the eye most approves. Still, his
motions, being natural, were graceful, and, being calm and regulated,
they gave him an air and dignity that associated well with the idea,
which was so prevalent, of his services and peculiar merits. His honest,
open features were burnt to a bright red, that comported well with the
notion of exposure and hardships, while his sinewy hands denot