"It was De Croix I sought," I answered, somewhat nettled by her prompt
reference to him; "and doubtless you are well able to give me trace of
him."

She studied me keenly, marking an angry note in my voice that I sought
vainly to disguise.

"Forever a quarrel?" she said, regretfully. "Do you know, Master
Wayland, I had thought better of you. Surely it is not your nature to
be a brawler, and always seeking opportunity to show the strong hand!
What has Captain de Croix done now to make you seek him so vengefully?"

"'T is not in quarrel," I explained,--I fear with ill grace, for her
words in his defence were little inclined to mollify me. "You may
indeed have so poor conception of me as to misinterpret my coming; yet
in truth I seek De Croix in friendship, hoping that I may by a chance
word serve him."

"Indeed! what danger threatens, that he needs to be warned against?"

I hesitated; for, now that my blood had somewhat cooled, my mission
seemed a bit foolish.

"I insist upon knowing," she continued haughtily, her eyes full upon
mine, "or I shall believe you sought him for hostile purpose, and would
deceive me by fair words."

"Mademoiselle," I answered gravely, "you do me wrong. Only a few
moments ago I chanced to overhear a discussion, by the officers of this
Fort, regarding a commission to go forth and hold council with the
Indians. Captain Heald is determined upon such a course; but none will
volunteer to accompany him, because of the grave danger of savage
treachery. The Frenchman's name was mentioned as one reckless enough
to join with such a party; and I sought to warn him ere he accepted
blindly. He is hardly a friend of mine,--yet it seems no more than
fair that he should know the full measure of his peril before saying
'yes.'"

She came impulsively forward, with quickly extended hand, her face
aglow.

"You are indeed a true heart, John Wayland, and have shamed me rightly.
I know well the deceit and treachery of Indian nature, and can
understand the peril such a party would run. Promise me that you will
prevent Captain de Croix from becoming one of them."

"I?" I exclaimed in perplexed surprise; "I can do no more than warn
him."

"But you must do more!" she cried imperatively. "He will surely go if
asked. A warning such as you propose would only stir his blood. I beg
you to use your wits a little, so that he may know nothing of it."

I looked at her, deeply hurt by the interest so openl