ve asked can never be granted. Continue, as heretofore,
to be the friend of my people, and you will also remain my friend. Let
me now return to my companions, for they cannot fail to be surprised at
seeing you; only let me ask that you will never repeat what you have
just said, and banish me, I pray you, from your thoughts."

"Not while Tecumah breathes the air of heaven can your form be banished
from his heart. Oh, ask him not to perform a task beyond his power,"
answered the Indian. "He obeys you now, as you will find he is ever
ready to do. Farewell." Saying this, greatly to the relief of
Constance, the Indian with slow steps returned to his canoe, while she
hastened back to her companions.

"Who is he? What object brought him here?" asked one of the young
ladies in a tone of alarm.

"He certainly did not appear unfriendly," remarked the other. "I should
say, Constance, judging from his manner, that he is a devoted admirer of
you. Come, my dear, confess--did he not ask you to become his bride?
Ah! I thought so," she continued, observing the colour rising on
Constance's cheek.

"I cannot reply to you!" exclaimed Constance, feeling excessively
annoyed at her friend's remarks. "You would not for a moment suppose
that I should listen to such a proposal. I scarcely, indeed, could
understand what he said. But we must not remain here, and it will be
well if we return immediately to the boat, lest more of the savages
should be lying concealed in the island and intrude themselves on us."

This last observation induced her companions eagerly to follow her
advice, evidently more alarmed than she was, and as they hurried on they
frequently looked back, expecting to see a party of dark-skinned
warriors suddenly start forth from the forest near them. They, however,
reached their friends in safety. On finding themselves safe on board
the boat they recovered their spirits, and the other ladies even
ventured to banter Constance about her Indian admirer. Nigel naturally
inquired what had happened. Constance then told him of the sudden
appearance of the Indian, but the expression of her countenance
prevented him from asking further questions. The expedition, which all
agreed had been a very pleasant one, terminated without any further
incident worthy of note.

Nigel, as usual, spent the evening at the count's house; and he and
Constance found an opportunity before the other guests arrived, for
strolling out in