ed to striking, tolls
just so many times; and, before the boom of its cracked bell has ceased
rolling in broken reverberation through the trees, he thrusts the watch
hurriedly into his fob. Then stands in expectant attitude, with eyes
upon the embouchure of the upper path, scanning it more eagerly than
ever. There is a strange coincidence between the strokes of the clock
and the flashes of Fernanda powder--both numbering the same. Though not
strange to the leader of the savage troop. He knows what it is--
comprehends the significance of the signal--for signal it has been. A
dread one, too, foreboding danger to innocent people. One who could
behold this savage band, scrutinise the faces of those composing it,
witness the fierce wicked flashes from their eyes, just as the clock is
striking, would send up a prayer for the safety of Colonel Armstrong and
his colonists.

If further informed as to who the savages are, the prayer would sure be
succeeded by the reflection--"Heaven help his daughters! If God guard
not, a fearful fate will be theirs--a destiny worse than death!"

CHAPTER FIFTY.

AN UNCANNY SKULKER.

Still within the garden are the young girls--still standing under the
shadow of the two trees that furnished the contrasting symbols,--
unconscious of danger near. Helen's speech, suggesting such painful
sequence, has touched her sister to the quick, soon as spoken,
afflicting also herself; and for a time they remain with entwined arms
and cheeks touching--their tears flowing together. But Jessie's sobs
are the louder, her grief greater than that she has been endeavouring to
assuage.

Helen perceiving it, rises to the occasion; and, as oft before, in turn
becomes the comforter; their happiness and misery like scales vibrating
on the beam.

"Don't cry so, Jess. Be a good girl, now. You're a little simpleton,
and I a big one. 'Twas very wrong of me to say what I did. Be it
forgotten, and let's hope we may yet both be happy."

"Oh, if I could but think that!"

"Think it, then. You _are_ happy, and I--shall try to be. Who knows
what time may do--that and Texas? Now, my little Niobe, dry up your
tears. Mine are all gone, and I feel in first rate spirits. I do
indeed."

She is not sincere in what she says, and but counterfeits cheerfulness
to restore that of her sister.

She has well-nigh succeeded, when a third personage appears upon the
scene, causing a sudden change in their thoughts,