Hitherto we have been equal sharers in an
enterprise having for its object the preservation of our
mutual companions and friends. At present, interests of
a more personal nature occupy my attention; and to these
must I devote myself alone. I trust you will reach Detroit
in safety; and when you have delivered my unfortunate
sister into the arms of her father, you will say to him
from me, I could not survive the loss of that being to
whom I had sworn eternal fidelity and affection. Francois
must be my only companion on this occasion. Nay," he
continued, pointing to his sister, in answer to the rising
remonstrance of the baronet," will you desert the precious
charge I have confided to your keeping? Recollect,
Valletort," in a more subdued tone, "that besides yourself,
there will be none near her but rude and uneducated
sailors;--honest men enough in their way, it is true;
but not the sort of people to whom I should like to
confide my poor sister."
The warm and silent pressure by Sir Everard of his hand
announced his participation in the sentiment; and Captain
de Haldimar now hastened forward to apprise the Canadian
of his purpose.
Pages:
488
489
490
491
492
493
494
495
496
497
498
499
500
501
502
503
504
505
506
507
508
509
510
511
512