fe. It was not in their dress I saw this something, but
in a certain expression of countenance. This expression I cannot well
describe, but I have ever noticed it in the faces and features of men
who have anything to do with the execution of the laws. Even in
America, where distinctive costume and badge are absent, I have been
struck with this peculiarity,--so much so that I believe I could detect
a detective in the plainest clothes.

The two men in question had this expression strongly marked. I had no
doubt they were in some way connected with the execution of the laws. I
had no doubt they were constables or sheriff's officers. With such a
slight glance as I gave to them in passing, I might not have troubled
myself with this conjecture, had it not been for other circumstances
then in my thoughts.

I had not saluted these men; but as I passed, I could perceive that my
presence was not without interest to them. On glancing back, I saw that
one of them had ridden close up to the other, that they were conversing
earnestly; and from their gestures I could tell that I was the subject
of their talk.

I had soon ridden far ahead, and ceased to think any more about them.

I had hurried forward without any preconceived plan of action. I had
acted altogether on the impulse of the moment, and thought only of
reaching the house, and ascertaining the state of affairs, either from
Eugenie or Aurore herself.

Thus _impromptu_ I had reached the borders of the plantation.

It now occurred to me to ride more slowly, in oder to gain a few moments
to manage my thoughts. I even halted awhile. There was a slight bend
in the river-bank, and the road crossed this like a chord to its arc.
The part cut off was a piece of waste--a common--and as there was no
fence I forsook the road, and walked my horse out on the river-bank.
There I drew up, but remained seated in my saddle.

I endeavoured to sketch out some plan of action. What should I say to
Eugenie? what to Aurore? Would the former see me after what she had
written? In her note she had said "farewell," but it was not a time to
stand upon punctilious ceremony. And if not, should I find an
opportunity to speak with Aurore? I _must_ see _her_. Who should
prevent me? I had much to say to her; my heart was full. Nothing but
an interview with my betrothed could relieve it.

Still without any definite plan, I once more turned my horse's head down
the river, used the spur