some means to detain
him here. I have spoken to you already of a brother-in-law, who goes with you,
serjeant, and who is a sailor?«
    »A real sea-faring man, your honor, and somewhat prejudiced against
fresh-water. I doubt if he could be induced to risk his character on a lake, and
I'm certain he never could find the station.«
    »The last is probably true, and, then, the man cannot know enough of this
treacherous lake to be fit for the employment! You will have to be doubly
vigilant, Dunham. I give you full powers, and should you detect this Jasper in
any treachery, make him a sacrifice at once to offended justice.«
    »Being in the service of the crown, your honor, he is amenable to martial
law -«
    »Very true - then iron him, from his head to his heels, and send him up
here, in his own cutter. That brother-in-law of yours must be able to find the
way back, after he has once travelled the road.«
    »I make no doubt, Major Duncan, we shall be able to do all that will be
necessary, should Jasper turn out as you seem to anticipate; though, I think I
would risk my life on his truth.«
    »I like your confidence; it speaks well for the fellow, but that infernal
letter! - There is such an air of truth about it - nay there is so much truth in
it, touching other matters -«
    »I think your honor said it wanted the name at the bottom; a great omission
for an honest man to make.«
    »Quite right, Dunham, and no one but a rascal, and a cowardly rascal in the
bargain, would write an anonymous letter, on private affairs. It is different,
however, in war. Despatches are feigned, and artifice is generally allowed to be
justifiable.«
    »Military, manly artifices, sir, if you will; such as ambushes, surprises,
feints, false attacks, and even spies; but I never heard of a true soldier who
could wish to undermine the character of an honest young man, by such means as
these!«
    »I have met with many strange events, and some stranger people, in the
course of my experience. But fare you well, serjeant; I must detain you no
longer. You are now on your guard, and I recommend to you, untiring vigilance. I
think Muir means shortly to retire, and