d the other ladies even
ventured to banter Constance about her Indian admirer. Nigel naturally
inquired what had happened. Constance then told him of the sudden
appearance of the Indian, but the expression of her countenance
prevented him from asking further questions. The expedition, which all
agreed had been a very pleasant one, terminated without any further
incident worthy of note.

Nigel, as usual, spent the evening at the count's house; and he and
Constance found an opportunity before the other guests arrived, for
strolling out in the woods behind the house, through which several walks
had already been cut. She then frankly told him what had occurred,
begging him, at the same time, not to be anxious on that account, as she
had every reason to believe that the young chief would not again molest
her.

"I trust not, dearest Constance!" exclaimed Nigel, taking her hand.
"Would that I had a right to protect you. Will you consent to become
mine if your father will give his permission?"

Constance gave him her hand. He spoke of his want of fortune, but he
reminded her that he had a strong arm and willing heart, qualifications
of no slight importance in a new colony, and he had every reason to hope
that he should be able to maintain her. She agreed that he should
immediately speak to the count, and he offered to throw up his
commission and cast in his fortune with her father and his associates;
and before they returned to the house many a plan for the future was
agreed on.

The count, almost to their surprise, without offering any objections,
entered into all their views; and Nigel determined the next morning to
ask permission from the captain to quit his ship and settle on shore.

"Impossible, sir," was the answer. "Were I to give you the permission
you ask all the officers and men would be desiring to turn settlers. I
intend to send the ship back immediately, and you must be prepared to
attend to your duty."

In vain Nigel expostulated; Villegagnon threatened to put him in irons
and send him back as a mutineer if he refused to obey his orders.

The ships were rapidly got ready for the voyage. Nigel, with a sad
heart, bade farewell to Constance.

"Rest confident of my love," she whispered. "We must wait till you can
obtain the admiral's sanction to quit the service. My father will write
to him on the subject, and I doubt not that he will grant your request."

Still, though Constance spoke with conf