ght, cap'n, but do be careful about spilling blood!" said Uncle
Nathan, who did not like the cool, determined air with which Henry
handled his pistols.

"Be assured I will not wantonly take the life of even the most hardened
villain; but in defence of Miss Dumont I shall consider that the end
will justify the means."

Uncle Nathan went to his post, and Henry, muffling himself in a large
camp-cloak, seated himself near Emily's door. Accustomed as he was to
the perils and privations of the camp, the duty before him did not seem
difficult or irksome. To his chivalrous spirit there was a pleasure in
thus watching over an innocent being, while she slept, unconscious of
the danger that menaced her. Lighting his cigar, he resigned himself to
the dream of blissful anticipations, which relieved the monotony of the
scene.

Maxwell, in the seclusion of his state-room, had thoroughly digested the
plan for the abduction of Emily. Vernon had arranged the details, and
the lawyer's reflections suggested no material alteration. His wounded
arm was a hindrance, but time was too precious to admit of delay. The
Chalmetta was so tardy in her movements that Jaspar must soon overtake
them, and then the opportunity would be lost.

If he could get Emily into his power, and away from the influences which
now surrounded her, he doubted not he could induce her, by threats or
persuasion, to become his wife; then he would spring the trap upon
Jaspar, and the coveted object of his existence would be gained. He had
already forged a bill of sale of her person, and, thus provided with an
implement of coercion, he doubted not that success would crown his
efforts.

As the evening advanced, and the passengers had mostly retired for the
night, Maxwell and Vernon left the state-room, and went aft to examine
more particularly the means of descent to the lower deck. As they
approached Emily's state-room, they perceived Henry puffing away at his
second cigar. Had it been any other person, Maxwell would not have
devoted a thought to him. It was he with whom he had fought the
duel,--whom a mysterious providence seemed to protect. Was he there by
accident or design?

The two confederates passed round the gallery, and returned to the
cabin. A long hour they waited, and the cabin clock pointed to the hour
of twelve; still Henry had not changed his position. His cigar was
consumed, but there he sat like a statue, obstinately obstructing the
completion of Maxw