ignal with three
jerks on the cord. Haul up then slowly, so as to make no noise; make a
noose for the lady's foot, and lower her with care. You have the
strength?"

"Ay, for twice her weight."

"Good; there will be naught to fear, Madame, for I will be below to
aid your footing. When I give the signal again Rene will descend and
join us."

"The rope is to be left dangling?"

"Only until I return. Once I leave you safe beyond the Iroquois, 'tis
my part to climb this rope again. Some task that," cheerfully, "yet De
Tonty deems it best that no evidence connect us with this escape. What
make you the hour?"

"Between one and two."

"Which will give me time before daydawn; so here, I chance it."

He swung himself over the edge, and slipped silently down into the
black mystery. We leaned over to watch, but could see nothing, our
only evidence of his progress, the jerking of the cord. De Artigny's
hand closed on mine.

"Dear," he whispered tenderly, "we are alone now--you are sorry?"

"I am happier than I have ever been in my life," I answered honestly.
"I have done what I believe to be right, and trust God. All I care to
know now is that you love me."

"With every throb of my heart," he said solemnly. "It is my love which
makes me dread lest you regret."

"That will never be, Monsieur; I am of the frontier, and do not fear
the woods. Ah! he has reached the rock safely--'tis the signal."

De Artigny drew up the cord, testing it to make sure the strands held
firm, and made careful noose, into which he slipped my foot.

"Now, Adele, you are ready?"

"Yes, sweetheart; kiss me first."

"You have no fear?"

"Not with your strong hands to support, but do not keep me waiting
long below."

Ay, but I was frightened as I swung off into the black void, clinging
desperately to that slight rope, steadily sinking downward. My body
rubbed against the rough logs, and then against rock. Once a jagged
edge wounded me, yet I dare not release my grip, or utter a sound. I
sank down, down, the strain ever greater on my nerves. I retained no
knowledge of distance, but grew apprehensive of what awaited me below.
Would the rope reach to the rock? Would I swing clear? Even as these
thoughts began to horrify, I felt a hand grip me, and Boisrondet's
whisper gave cheerful greeting.

"It is all right, Madame; release your foot, and trust me. Good, now
do not venture to move, until Rene joins us. Faith, he wastes little
time; he is