had been amusing myself and establishing a reputation as
medicine man among the few Indians stationed there, by rehearsing some
of my old tricks, and when this new gang appeared, nothing would do but
an exhibition for their benefit. They were so impressed with my power
over the fire-demon, that they invited me to join them. They promised
me all sorts of honors if I would comply, and threatened to test my
powers by subjecting me to torture by fire in case I refused. I had no
idea at that time of their especial mission, and was wondering how to
escape from my awkward fix, when at that moment Miss Edith appeared."

"Laughing as usual, I suppose?" said Donald, a little bitterly, for he
was beginning to think that his sister exhibited rather too much
lightness of heart, in view of the gravity of her own situation, to say
nothing of the dangers and hardships he was undergoing on her behalf.

"So far from it," replied the paymaster, "that there were traces of
tears on her cheeks, and she was evidently suffering great mental
distress.

"'Oh, Mr. Bullen!' she said in a low tone, so as not to be overheard by
the savages, in case any of them understood English, 'I have just
learned of something dreadful. This war-party is on its way to
surprise Presque Isle, and capture the survivors of poor Mr. Cuyler's
expedition, who have probably sought refuge there. Just think how
terrible it would be if they should succeed, and our friends should be
killed! Can't you do something to frustrate their wicked plan? You
seem to have gained such an influence over them, I am sure you can if
you only will.'

"I was rather staggered by this news, of course, and when she added:
'If you would only try, Mr. Bullen, and should succeed in saving the
brave men in that fort, I should ever esteem you among the very dearest
of my friends,' my resolution was instantly taken.

"I answered: 'For your sake, Miss Edith, I will make the effort and do
what lies in my power to thwart the design of the red villains.' With
that it was really touching to witness her gratitude and to hear her
say that she should pray for my safety and success from that moment."

"She must have reasoned that I would be searching for her among
Cuyler's fugitives and would very likely be in Presque Isle," reflected
Donald.

"I don't see how that could be," retorted Bullen; "for I had carefully
avoided any mention of your name, or of the fact that I had met you,
thinking it u