Arrived at the skirt of the forest, the little party drew up within the shadow of the ruin, and a short and earnest dialogue ensued, in Indian, between the female and the officer.  This was succeeded by a command from the latter to his servant, who, after a momentary but respectful expostulation, which, however, was utterly lost on him to whom it was addressed, proceeded to divest himself of his humble apparel, assuming in exchange the more elegant uniform of his superior.  Donellan, who was also of the grenadiers, was remarkable for the resemblance he bore, in figure, to Captain de Haldimar; wanting, it is true, the grace and freedom of movement of the latter, but still presenting an outline which, in an attitude of profound repose, might, as it subsequently did, have set even those who were most intimate with the officer at fault.

“This is well,” observed the female, as the young man proceeded to induct himself in the grey coat of his servant, having previously drawn the glazed hat close over his waving and redundant hair:  “if the Saganaw is ready, Oucanasta will go.”

“Sure, and your honour does not mane to lave me behind!” exclaimed the anxious soldier, as his captain now recommended him to stand closely concealed near the ruin until his return.  “Who knows what ambuscade the she-divil may not lade your honour into; and thin who will you have to bring you out of it?”

“No, Donellan, it must not be:  I first intended it, as you may perceive by my bringing you out; but the expedition on which I am going is of the utmost importance to us all, and too much precaution cannot be taken.  I fear no ambuscade, for I can depend on the fidelity of my guide; but the presence of a third person would only embarrass, without assisting me in the least.  You must remain behind; the woman insists upon it, and there is no more to be said.”

“To ould Nick with the ugly winch, for her pains!” half muttered the disappointed soldier to himself.  “I wish it may be as your honour says; but my mind misgives me sadly that evil will come of this.  Has your honour secured the pistols?”

“They are here,” returned his captain, placing a hand on either chest.  “And now, Donellan, mark me:  I know nothing that can detain me longer than an hour; at least the woman assures me, and I believe her, that I may be back then; but it is well to guard against accidents.  You must continue here for the hour, and for the hour only.  If I come not then, return to the fort without delay, for the rope must be removed, and the gate secured, before Halloway is relieved.  The keys you will find in the pocket of my uniform:  when you have done with them, let them be hung up in their proper place in the guard-room.  My father must not know either that Halloway suffered me to pass the gate, or that you accompanied me.”

“Lord love us! your honour talks as if you nivir would return, giving such a heap of orders!” exclaimed the startled man; “but if I go back alone, as I trust in heaven I shall not, how am I to account for being dressed in your honour’s rigimintals?”