said I, troubled, “why did she journey hither?”

“Because she now believes that only I in all the world could guide her to the vale Yndaia; and that one day I will pity her and take her there.”

“Doubtless,” I said anxiously, “she has heard at the forts or hereabouts that we are to march on Catharines-town.”

“She knows it now, Loskiel”

“And means to follow?” I exclaimed in horror.

“My brother speaks the truth.”

“God! What urges the child thither?”

“I do not know, Loskiel. It seems as though a madness were upon her that she must go to Catharines-town. I tell you there is sorcery in all this. I say it —