It is for the strongest, however,
to propose his terms.--If I restore this girl to life,
will you pledge yourself to mine?"
"Never!" thundered Colonel de Haldimar, with unusual
energy.--"Men, procure axes; cut the flag-staff down,
since this is the only means left of securing yon insolent
traitor! Quick to your work: and mark, who first seizes
him shall have promotion on the spot."
Axes were instantly procured, and two of the men now lent
themselves vigorously to the task. Wacousta seemed to
watch these preparations with evident anxiety; and to
all it appeared as if his courage had been paralysed by
this unexpected action. No sooner, however, had the axemen
reached the heart of the staff, than, holding Clara forth
over the edge of the rampart, he shouted,--
"One stroke more, and she perishes!"
Instantaneously the work was discontinued. A silence of
a few moments ensued. Every eye was turned upward,--every
heart beat with terror to see the delicate girl, held by
a single arm, and apparently about to be precipitated
from that dizzying height. Again Wacousta shouted,--
"Life for life, De Haldimar! If I yield her shall I live?"
"No terms shall be dictated to me by a rebel, in the
heart of my own fort," returned the governor.
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