your glances, and interpreted your thoughts, ever
since we turned into this stream. I am certain you fear at this moment
we have been beguiled into a trap. Tell me, is this not true?"

Her clear, questioning eyes gazed so directly into my own, and were so
honestly courageous, I up and told her what I had observed, and where I
was then bound.

"It is better to trust me," she commented simply, as I ended my
recital. "My eyes have not been altogether idle, although I am no
borderer to observe such faint signs. There were several reeds bent
low in the water a hundred yards back; their sides scraped as if a
large boat had been dragged through them. I thought nothing of it,
until I observed how intently you were studying each mark left by man.
While you are gone yonder, what would you wish me to do?"

I looked at her attentively, noting how heavy her eyes were from
weariness.

"You are too tired to remain on guard, Eloise," I said, forgetting I
should not use that name, "or I might bid you watch here, and, if any
misfortune befall me, call the others. Besides, if there are enemies
at hand there is no knowing from what direction they may chance upon
us. However, all we have observed were probably old marks, or made by
roving beasts, and I shall soon return to fling myself on the ground,
seeking sleep also. So go and rest those weary eyes, while I scout to
satisfy myself. It is only the doubt of a suspicious man."

"I shall not sleep until your safe return," she replied firmly. "You
shall not go forth thus without one to pray for your safe return. I
beg you, exercise care."

"Have no fear, Madame, I am no reckless hot-head at such work, and
shall continue to guard my life while it remains of value to you and
yours. Try to rest at ease, for I will soon return, with a laugh at my
foolish suspicions."

I forced the boat into the swollen stream, and, using one oar as a
paddle, silently and swiftly propelled it directly across. Discovering
a spot seemingly fit for travel, I pushed the prow through the long
marsh grass, and stepped ashore. She still stood in the tree shadow of
the opposite bank, and waving a hand in reassurance, I drew forth my
long rifle from beneath the seat. Advancing silently, I pressed
forward into the thick bed of cane, thinking more of Eloise de Noyan
than of the task before me. It proved a hard passage, so extremely
difficult as to call back my mind from foolish day-dreams to save
my