d, that it was so large," said
Mrs. Campbell. "Well, I have a high opinion of him, and have no doubt
but that he will make a good use of it."

"At all events, he can afford the luxury of a wife," said the Colonel,
laughing, "which we soldiers seldom can."

The Colonel then entered into conversation with Mr. Campbell, relative
to his farm, and after many questions, he observed:

"I have been thinking, Mr. Campbell, that it will be very advantageous
to the government as well as to you, when your farm is cleared and
stocked, if, with the water-power you possess here, you were to erect a
flour-mill and a saw-mill. You observe that the government has to supply
the fort with flour and provisions of all kinds at a very heavy expense
of carriage, and the cattle we have at the fort will cost us more than
they are worth, now that we have lost your prairie farm, so conveniently
situated for us. On the other hand, your produce will be almost useless
to you, at the distance you are from any mart; as you will not find any
sale for it. Now, if you were to erect a mill, and grind your own wheat,
which you may do in another year, if you have funds sufficient; and as
you may have plenty of stock, you will be able to supply the fort with
flour, beef, pork, and mutton, at a good profit to yourself, and at
one-half the price which government pays at present. I have written to
the Governor on the subject, stating that we have not the means of
keeping our stock, and pointing out to him what I now point out to you.
I expect an answer in a few days, and should he authorize me, I may make
arrangements with you even now, which will be satisfactory, I have no
doubt."

Mr. Campbell returned the Colonel many thanks for his kindness, and of
course expressed himself willing to be guided by his advice. He stated
that he had funds not only sufficient to erect a mill, but also, if he
were permitted, to pay for the labor of any party of men which the
commandant would spare during the summer season.

"That is the very point which I wished to ascertain; but I felt some
delicacy about making the inquiry. Now I consider that there will be no
difficulty in our arrangements."

The Colonel remained for some time looking over the farm and conversing
with Mr. Campbell, and then took his leave.

In the meantime, Alfred and his cousins went out to walk; the weather
was now beautifully clear, and in the afternoon the heat was not too
oppressive. As they saunt