As the man, however, prepared
coolly to depart, it suddenly occurred to me, that I
might prevail on your father to take my duty now, as on
former occasions he had willingly done, and I countermanded
my message to the colonel; desiring him, however, to find
out Ensign de Haldimar, and say that I requested to see
him immediately at my quarters, whither I was now proceeding
to change my dress.
"With a beating heart did I assume an uniform that
appeared, at that moment, hideous in my eyes; yet I was
not without a hope I might yet get off this ill-timed
duty. Before I had completed my equipment, your father
entered; and when I first glanced my eye full upon his,
I thought his countenance exhibited evidences of confusion.
This immediately reminded me of the unknown hunter, and
I asked him if he was not the person I described. His
answer was not a positive denial, but a mixture of raillery
and surprise that lulled my doubts, enfeebled as they
were by the restored calm of his features. I then told
him that I had a particular favour to ask of him, which,
in consideration of our friendship, I trusted he would
not refuse; and that was, to take my duty in the expedition
about to set forth.
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