then all emotion
connected with the recent exploit seemed to cease.
    »Jasper,« resumed the guide - »step down to the station of Master Cap, and
ask him to join us. We have little time for a council, and yet our plans must be
laid quickly, for it will not be long before them Mingos will be plotting our
ruin.«
    The young man complied, and in a few minutes, the four were assembled near
the shore, completely concealed from the view of their enemies, while they kept
a vigilant watch over the proceedings of the latter, in order to consult on
their own future movements. By this time, the day had so far advanced, as to
leave but a few minutes between the passing light, and an obscurity that
promised to be even deeper than common. The sun had already set, and the
twilight of a low latitude would soon pass into the darkness of deep night. Most
of the hopes of the party rested on this favorable circumstance, though it was
not without its dangers, also, as the very obscurity which would favor their
escape would be as likely to conceal the movements of their wily enemies.
    »The moment has come, men,« Pathfinder commenced, »when our plans must be
coolly laid, in order that we may act together, and with a right understanding
of our errand and gifts. In an hour's time, these woods will be as dark as
midnight, and if we are ever to gain the garrison, it must be done under favor
of this advantage. What say you, Master Cap; for though none of the most
exper'enced in combats and retreats in the woods, your years entitle you to
speak first, in a matter like this, and in a council.«
    »And my near relationship to Mabel, Pathfinder, ought to count for something
-«
    »I do'n't know that - I do'n't know that. Regard is regard, and liking,
liking, whether it be a gift of natur', or come from one's own judgment and
inclinations. I will say nothing for the Sarpent, who is past placing his mind
on the women, but as for Jasper and myself, we are as ready to stand atween the
Sarjeant's daughter and the Mingos, as her own brave father, himself, could be.
Do I say more than the truth, lad?«
    »Mabel may count on me, to the last drop of my blood,« said Jasper, speaking
low, but with intense feeling.
    »