ld be, I was unable even to guess. Perhaps, had I listened
more attentively, I might have arrived at some knowledge of it--since
words were occasionally uttered aloud--but my eyes were busier than my
ears; and at that moment, neither the squatter nor his guest was the
subject of my thoughts.

Beyond them was the attraction that fascinated my gaze--that thing of
roseate golden hue, whose shining presence seemed to light up the dark
interior of the cabin--gleaming meteor-like through the interstices of
the logs--now softly moving from side to side, and now, thank Heaven!
gliding towards the door! Only for a moment stood she silently on the
stoop--one smiling moment, and she was gone. Her fair face was once
more hidden, behind the rude _jalousie_ of the logs; but the smile
remained. It was mine; and lingered long within the trembling temple of
my heart.

CHAPTER TWENTY SEVEN.

YES--YES!

Towards the interior of the hut, hallowed by such lovely presence, I
continued to direct my glances--with an occasional side-look, noting the
movements of the two men. Whatever had been the exciting topic of
discourse but the moment before, I saw that it was now changed; and that
I was myself the subject of their conversation. This I could tell by
their looks and gestures--evidently bearing upon me and my business.
Conscious that I was observing them--and as if desirous of conferring
more privately--they passed round to the rear of the cabin; where for
the time they were out of my sight, as well as hearing. So far from
regretting this movement, it was just what I desired: it left me free to
continue the pleasant espionage in which I had become engaged. New more
boldly my eyes explored the dark interior of the hut--more freely roamed
my glance along the interstices of the logs. Gladly should I have gone
up to the doorway--fain would I have been to enter--had I not been
restrained; but delicacy, and something more stood in the way; and I was
forced to keep my ground. Again I saw the bright form flitting within.
Gliding gently across the floor--as if on tiptoe, and by stealth--the
young girl stood for a while near the back-wall of the cabin. Close
behind this, the two men were conversing. Did she go there to listen?
She might easily hear what was said: I could myself distinguish the
voices, and almost the words.

She remained motionless; and, as well as I could judge, in an attitude
of attention--her head lowered, and he