What he had said to Aurore convinced me that such was
the case. Indeed, Reigart had heard some whisper that his debt had
already been proved before the courts in New Orleans; that no opposition
had been made; that he had obtained a verdict, and could seize upon her
property, or as much of it as would satisfy his demands, at any moment!
It was only the night before Reigart had told me this, and the
information had rendered me all the more anxious to hasten my business
in relation to Aurore.

I spurred into a gallop, and soon came in sight of the plantation.
Having arrived at the gate, I dismounted. There was no one to hold my
horse, but that is a slight matter in America, where a gate-post or a
branch of a tree often serves as a groom.

Bethinking me of this ready expedient I tossed my rein over one of the
palings, and walked toward the house.

CHAPTER TWENTY NINE.

"ELLE T'AIME!"

It was natural I should have thoughts about my yesterday's antagonist.
Would I encounter him? Not likely. The butt of my whip had no doubt
given him a headache that would confine him for some days to his
quarters. But I was prepared for any event. Under my waistcoat were
his own double-barrelled pistols, which I intended to use, if attacked.
It was my first essay at carrying "concealed weapons," but it was the
fashion of the country at the time--a fashion followed by nineteen out
of every twenty persons you met--by planters, merchants, lawyers,
doctors, and even divines! So prepared, I had no fear of an encounter
with "Bully Bill." If my pulse beat quick and my step was nervous, it
was on account of the anticipated interview with his mistress.

With all the coolness I could command, I entered the house.

I found Mademoiselle in the drawing-room. She received me without
reserve or embarrassment. To my surprise as well as gratification she
appeared more cheerful than usual. I could even detect a significant
smile! I fancied she was pleased at what had occurred; for of course
she was aware of it all. I could understand this well enough.

Aurore was not present. I was glad she was not. I hoped she would not
come into the room--_at least for a time_. I was embarrassed. I scarce
knew how to open the conversation, much less to break to Mademoiselle
the matter that was nearest my heart. A few ordinary phrases passed
between us, and then our conversation turned upon the affair of
yesterday. I told her all--everything--