ed-coats."

A faint smile played upon Mrs. Markham's features, as she turned to
Henry and said, "You are a young rebel, and a warm one, I perceive. Such
troubles as ours require grave advisers."

"My brother and myself must not be misapprehended," continued Mildred;
"I alluded only to my father's influence. I have heard that he enjoys
some consideration in the esteem of Lord Cornwallis, and it is upon the
strength of that I have ventured. Besides, I am well attended by a
careful and wise soldier, who rides as my companion and guide--one who
would not quietly see me harmed."

"Let him be brought into our consultation," said Mrs. Markham. "I would
not act without his advice. With your leave, I will send for him."

Henry and Alfred Markham, immediately upon this hint, went in pursuit of
Horse Shoe.

When that important and trusty personage arrived in the parlor, a
regular conference was opened, which, after a few discourses on the
general aspect of affairs--wherein the sergeant showed an abundance of
soldierly sagacity and knowledge, and a still greater share of warm and
faithful concern for the welfare of the sister and brother whom he had
in ward--resulted in the conclusion that measures should be taken to
ascertain the state of the country around, in reference to the
impression made by the late movements of Marion and his adversary; and,
especially, what character of troops occupied the region over which the
sergeant would be required to conduct his charge. This duty the sergeant
very appropriately considered as belonging to himself, and he therefore
determined forthwith to set out on a reconnoitring expedition. As we
propose to bear him company, we will, for the present, leave the family
in the parlor to the enjoyment of the kind communion that had already
nursed up a mutual affection between the hostess and her guests.

The sergeant took his departure alone, notwithstanding the urgent
importunities of Henry and his new companion, Alfred Markham, for
permission to accompany him--a request that was utterly denied by the
sturdy and cautious soldier.

"You are apt to talk too much, Mister Lindsay," he said, in answer to
the petition of the young men, "for such a piece of business as I have
in hand: for although, consarning your good sense, and valor both,
considering your years, I would not be thought to speak rashly of
them--but, on the contrary, to give you full praise and
recommendation--yet you know you want e