e of his
previous escape, and this alarm was increased by her remembrance of the
tone of bitter resentment with which Cornwallis, in a moment of
unguarded feeling, had referred to the event in her late conference with
that officer. Above all, it was her duty--such was her view of the
matter--and whatever might befal, he was the lord of her heart, and all
dangers and difficulties, now as heretofore, should be cast aside in her
determination to administer to his safety or comfort. Her decision was
made, and she so announced it to her companions.

Neither the sergeant nor Henry made the opposition to this resolve that
might have been expected. To Horse Shoe it was a matter of indifference
upon what service he might be ordered; his thoughts ran in no other
current than to obey the order, and make the most thrifty and careful
provision for its safe execution. To Henry that was always a pleasant
suggestion which was calculated to bring him more into the field of
adventure. Allen Musgrove, on this occasion, added an opinion which
rather favored the enterprise.

"It was not much out of the way," he said, "to go as far as Burk Court
House, where, at least, the lady was likely to learn something of the
plans of Ferguson, and she might either wait there, or take such
direction afterwards as her friends should advise."

Mary begged that whatever route Mildred thought proper to pursue, she
might be allowed to accompany her; and this request was so much to the
liking of Mildred, that she earnestly implored the miller's consent to
the plan. With some reluctance Musgrove acquiesced; and, feeling thus
doubly interested in the fortunes of the party, he finally determined
himself to attend them in their present enterprise.

These matters being settled, the wearied travellers parted for the
night, happy, at least, in having found the weight of their personal
afflictions relieved by the cheerfulness with which the burden was
divided.

CHAPTER LII.

SIGNS OF A GATHERING STORM.--MUSTER OF THE BACKWOODSMEN.

In arms the huts and hamlets rise,
From winding glen, from upland brown,
They poured each hardy tenant down.--LADY OF THE LAKE.

In gathering up the ends of our story, as we draw towards a conclusion,
we are forced, after the fashion of a stirring drama, to a frequent
change of scene. Accordingly, leaving Mildred and her friends to pursue
their own way until we shall find leisure to look after their footsteps,