s an Indian wife, Master Alfred, and Indian wives don't
speak unless they're spoken to."

"What a recommendation," said Alfred, laughing; "I really think I shall
look after an Indian wife, Emma."

"I think you had better," replied Emma. "You'd be certain of a quiet
house,--when _you_ were out of it,--and when at home, you would have all
the talk to yourself, which is just what you like. Come, Mary, let us
leave him to dream of his squaw."

The men selected by the commandant of the fort were well used to handle
the axe; before dusk, many trees had been felled, and were ready for
sawing into lengths. The tents had all been pitched: those for the
Campbells on the knoll we have spoken of; Captain Sinclair's and that
for the soldiers about a hundred yards distant; the fires were lighted,
and as the dinner had been cold, a hot supper was prepared by Martin and
Mrs Campbell, assisted by the girls and the younger boys. After supper
they all retired to an early bed; Captain Sinclair having put a man as
sentry, and the dogs having been tied at different places, that they
might give the alarm if there was any danger; which, however, was not
anticipated, as the Indians had for some time been very quiet in the
neighbourhood of Fort Frontignac.

CHAPTER TEN.

MALACHI AND JOHN.

The next morning, when they assembled at breakfast, after Mr Campbell
had read the prayers, Mary Percival said, "Did you hear that strange and
loud noise last night? I was very much startled with it; but, as nobody
said a word, I held my tongue."

"Nobody said a word, because everybody was fast asleep, I presume," said
Alfred; "I heard nothing."

"It was like the sound of cart-wheels at a distance, with whistling and
hissing," said Mary.

"I think I can explain it to you, as I was up during the night, Miss
Percival," said Captain Sinclair. "It is a noise you must expect every
night during the summer season; but one to which you will soon be
accustomed."

"Why, what was it?"

"Frogs,--nothing more; except, indeed, the hissing, which, I believe, is
made by the lizards. They will serenade you every night. I only hope
you will not be disturbed by anything more dangerous."

"Is it possible that such small creatures can make such a din?"

"Yes, when thousands join in the concert; I may say millions."

"Well, I thank you for the explanation, Captain Sinclair, as it has been
some relief to my mind."

After breakfast, Martin (we shall fo