I shall not only learn to
load a rifle but to fire one also."

"And I'll teach the boys the use of them, ma'am, and they will then add
to your defense."

"You shall do so, Martin," replied Mrs. Campbell; "I am convinced that
you are quite right."

When Super had quitted the room, which he did soon afterward, Mr.
Campbell observed--"I hope, my dear, that you and the girls are not
terrified by the remarks of Martin. It is necessary to be well armed
when isolated as we shall be, and so far from any assistance; but it
does not follow, because we ought to be prepared against danger, that
such danger should occur."

"I can answer for myself, my dear Campbell," replied his wife; "I am
prepared, if necessary, to meet danger, and do what a weak woman can do;
and I feel what Martin says is but too true, that with a rifle in hand,
a woman or a child is on a par with the strongest man."

"And I, my dear uncle," said Mary Percival, "shall, I trust, with the
blessing of God, know how to do my duty, however peculiar the
circumstances may be to a female."

"And I, my dear uncle," followed up Emma, laughing, "infinitely prefer
firing off a rifle to being hugged by a bear or an Indian, because of
two evils one should always choose the least."

"Well, then, I see Martin has done no harm, but, on the contrary, he has
done good. It is always best to be prepared for the worst, and to trust
to Providence for aid in peril."

At last all the purchases were completed, and every thing was packed up
and ready for embarkation. Another message from the Governor was
received, stating that in three days the troops would be embarked, and
also informing Mr. Campbell that if he had not purchased any cows or
horses, the officer at Fort Frontignac had more cattle than were
requisite, and could supply him; which, perhaps, would be preferable to
carrying them up so far. Mr. Campbell had spoken about, but not finally
settled for, the cows, and therefore was glad to accept the Governor's
offer. This message was accompanied with a note of invitation to Mr.
Campbell, the ladies, and Henry and Alfred, to take a farewell dinner at
Government House the day before their departure. The invitation was
accepted, and Mr. Campbell was introduced to the officer commanding the
detachment which was about to proceed to Fort Frontignac, and received
from him every assurance of his doing all he could to make them
comfortable. The kindness of the Governor did not end