to thrust itself between us
and our duty to the ladies. Richards," he continued, addressing a young
officer who stood near him, "see if you can find some refreshment that
would be acceptable to the lady and her brother. Horse Shoe, this way: I
would speak with you."

Marion now retired towards the place where the writing materials were
first noticed, and entered into an examination of the sergeant, as to
the particulars of the recent attack upon Wingate's cabin.

Before Robinson had finished his narrative of the events of the night, a
horseman dashed up almost at full speed to the spot where Marion stood,
and, flinging himself from his saddle, whilst his horse stood panting
beside him, asked for the General.

"How now, Bloody Spur! What's the news?" demanded Marion.

"The Black River hawks are flying," said the soldier.

"I have heard that already," interrupted the chieftain. "Tell me what
else."

"I stayed long enough to secure Wingate's cattle, and then set out for
the river to cut loose the boats at the Ferry. I did it in good time.
Four files followed close upon my heels, who had been sent ahead to make
sure of the means of crossing. The fellows found me after my work was
done, and chased me good three miles. They will hardly venture, General,
to swim the river to-night, with all the thievery they have in their
hands; and I rather take it they will halt at the ferry till daylight."

"Then that's a lucky cast, Dick Peyton," exclaimed Marion. "Ho, there!
Peters, wake up that snoring trumpeter. Tell him to sound 'to saddle.'
Come lads, up, up. Gentlemen, to your duties!"

Forthwith the trumpet sounded, and with its notes everything asleep
started erect. Troopers were seen hurrying across the ground in rapid
motion: some hastily buckling on broadswords and slinging their muskets;
others equipping the horses; and everywhere torches were seen passing to
and fro in all the agitation of a sudden muster. As soon as Marion had
set this mass in action, he repaired to Mildred, and in a manner that
betokened no excitement from the general stir around him, he said--

"I owe you an apology, Miss Lindsay, for this desertion, which I am sure
you will excuse when you know that it is caused by my desire to punish
the varlets who were so ill-mannered as to intrude upon your slumbers. I
hope, however, you will not be a loser by the withdrawal of our people,
as I will take measures to put you under the protection of a good frie