y the landlord, of whom he
inquired, that Dr. DeWolf resided at Chimney Rock, about five miles
distant, and to the question, "Has he a family?" replied, "But one
daughter, a beauty of some celebrity."

The informant observed the gratified twinkle in the eye of his guest
and was not surprised when Edward ordered a carriage to be in
readiness for him directly after dinner.

"The road is precipitous in some places, and horseback riding is
considered safer," suggested the landlord.

"Well, two saddle horses, then," replied the other.

Accordingly, at the time above specified, our adventurers, each
mounted on a dapple gray, set out for Chimney Rock. The scorching sun,
and dusty streets, and poor little withered flowers by the wayside,
prodigals from the adjoining valley, were soon exchanged for the
"Valley Road," fringed with the loveliest specimens of the floral
family, and cooled by the shade of the surrounding bluffs. Like all
other things in life, this part of their journey was of short
duration.

"Half a mile on this road," said Edward, reining in his steed, and
repeating previous instructions, "brings us to the 'Siamese Twins' a
double bluff singularly joined towards the top by the projection of an
enormous rock. Now, we are here, and no mistake, then turn to the
right."

"And keep the road as best we may," said Dr. Goodrich, raising his
hat, and wiping the perspiration from his brow. "Well, come on."

They went on, on and on, over rocks and ledges and fallen trees;
fording streams and climbing heights (for they had lost their way)
until the lengthened twilight, attendant on the summer evenings of
Minnesota, began to darken into night.

At this junction, when it may be readily imagined that Edward
Sherman's ardor had somewhat cooled, and the emotions of his fellow
traveller were not of the most agreeable nature, alternate snatches of
song-singing and whistling were heard, not far distant. The bewildered
parties rode hastily forward, and met the musician.

"Can you tell how far we are from Chimney Rock, my friend? We have
lost our way," said Edward frankly.

"Why no, you ain't lost your way neither," replied the stranger
roughly. "You are there, now. Just ride round the 'tother side of this
bluff, and you'll see all there is of it."

"Well, can you inform me where Dr. DeWolf lives?"

"I guess I can. Keep right straight ahead, when you get the 'tother
side of the Pass, there. That road takes you down to H