r than you
do. If I mistake not, your services will be full as acceptable at my
cottage."

Dr. Vaudelier tried to smile at this sally; but the effort was too much
for him, and he sank under it.

Emily, though sorry to leave her protectress, was drawn by the
irresistible magnetism of affection to Cottage Island. She compromised
between the opposing demands of duty by promising herself that she would
again visit the wood-yard.

She embarked with Dr. Vaudelier, and they were soon gliding down the
mighty river on their way to Cottage Island. Emily had wished Hatchie to
accompany her, as much for his safety as for her own; but the faithful
fellow desired to stay at the wood-yard. They had before had an
interview in relation to the will. Uncle Nathan, who had been made the
custodian of it, had not been seen or heard from, and her case again
seemed to be desperate. Hatchie assured her of his safety, and of his
good faith. He had left him in the hold, and, with common prudence, the
worthy farmer might have made his escape unharmed. Emily, who now
regarded her devoted servant in the light of a guardian angel, had
entire confidence in his reasoning and conclusions. Of Hatchie's motive
in remaining at the wood-yard she had no conception. If she had had, she
would probably have insisted on his attendance.

After the departure of Dr. Vaudelier and Emily, Hatchie went to the
cabin, and took therefrom a carpet-bag belonging to Maxwell,--an article
which, even in the hurry of his exit from the steamer, he had not
omitted to take. With this in his hand, he proceeded to the
out-building, to satisfy himself of the security of his prisoners; but
Vernon had fled,--the wooden door of the shed had not been proof against
his art. Hatchie was not disconcerted by this incident. Vernon, he was
aware, was only a subordinate, who did his evil deeds for hire, and
against him he bore no ill will. But it immediately occurred to him that
the ruffian might have liberated Maxwell, and this would have utterly
deranged his present plans. Taking from the shed a long rope, he
proceeded to the other side of the cabin, where he had secured the
attorney to the tree. To his great satisfaction he found the prisoner
secure. Vernon did not see him, or was too intent on his own safety to
bestow a thought upon his late employer.

Hatchie reached the scene of Maxwell's humiliation. Coolly seating
himself on a log near the discomfited lawyer, and regarding him wi