with great coolness,[Pg 57] riding out in front of his men, and using his telescope.

[Pg 57]

His example was inspiring to his men, and insensibly the most nervous forgot his tremors when he saw the coolness of his captain.

The Indians were as yet out of gunshot, they were advancing on foot, and some five or six horsemen were visible in their line. Adrian watched them close, and saw that if he could break through the line he could laugh at pursuit, all his men being mounted and most of the enemy on foot. He turned his glass to the Hessian camp, and saw no symptoms of disturbance there. The stolid dragoon sentries paced to and fro on the parapet of the breastwork, and did not seem to notice the impending conflict outside.

Then he turned to speak to his men, and met the blue eyes of Diana. She was watching him apprehensively, as if she sympathized with his danger, and longed to avert it, while powerless. Schuyler pointed to the distant woods, saying:

“For God’s sake, young lady, ride away out of danger. The bullets will soon be flying, and they will not respect even your beauty.”

“Why not come with me?” she asked. “I can lead you away by a path where there are no Indians.”

“Thanks for your offer,” said the hussar, gratefully. “It is one that I would accept, were it not that I have promised General Stark to be back by a certain hour at his headquarters. My way lies through the enemy.”

“And do you really mean to charge those fierce creatures?” she asked in a tone of wonder.

“I really do,” he said, quietly. “There’s not half as much danger as you would think. Rapid motion will take us safe through.”

“Then I go with you,” said the girl, firmly.

Adrian laughed.

“Nonsense, Diana. Your presence here shows that you’re on our side, but you can do no good with us. Depart while you may. They are almost within gunshot.”

“I am going with you,” said Diana, firmly. “If it is a mere matter of fast riding, I can ride too.”

[Pg 58]

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