fferent, after just committing such a
crime. When you looked in through the window what did you see?"

"Only the priests about the table talking, and Cassion seemingly sound
asleep. Could there be any reason why he should desire the death of
Chevet?"

"I know of none. My uncle felt bitter over the concealment of my
fortune, and no doubt the two had exchanged words, but there was no
open quarrel. Chevet was rough and headstrong, yet he was not killed
in fight, for the knife thrust was from behind."

"Ay, a coward's blow. Chevet possessed no papers of value?"

I shook my head.

"If so, no mention was ever made to me. But, Monsieur, you are still
wet, and must be cold in this wind. Why do you not build the fire, and
dry your clothing?"

"The wind does have an icy feel," he admitted, "but this is a poor
spot. Up yonder in the wood shadow there is more warmth, and besides
it affords better outlook for the canoes. Have you strength now to
climb the bluff?"

"The path did not appear difficult, and it is dreary enough here. I
will try."

I did not even require his aid, and was at the top nearly as soon as
he. It was a pleasant spot, a heavy forest growing almost to the edge,
but with green carpet of grass on which one could rest, and gaze off
across the wide waste of waters. Yet there was little to attract the
eyes except the ceaseless roll of the waves, and the curve of the
coast line, against which the breakers still thundered, casting high
in air their white spray. It was a wild, desolate scene, a wilderness
wherever the eyes turned.

I stood silent, gazing to the southward, but there were no canoes
visible, although the storm had ceased, and the waves were no longer
high enough to prevent their return. They must have been driven below
the distant point, and possibly so injured as to make repairs
necessary. When I finally turned away I found that De Artigny had
already lighted a fire with flint and steel in a little hollow within
the forest. He called to me to join him.

"There is nothing to see," he said, "and the warmth is welcome. You
had no glimpse of the boats?"

"No," I admitted. "Do you really believe they survived?"

"There was no reason why they should not, if properly handled. I have
controlled canoes in far worse storms. They are doubtless safely
ashore beyond the point yonder."

"And will return seeking us?"

"Seeking you, at least. Cassion will learn what occurred, and
certainly will never de