that was in keeping with his dismal surroundings, and courted sleep to give him temporary relief. How long he might have been lost in slumber he was unconscious, when awakened by something lightly passing over his face. “Keep quiet,” said a voice: “do not cry or you may attract the guard.” The darkness was intense; the patter of the rain on the roof the only sound without. The voice Morton recognized at once as Hemlock’s. “How did you get here? Do you not know they would tear you limb from limb if they found you?” “I know it all, but an Indian brave counts nothing when he goes to save a friend. Get up and go with me.” A momentary feeling of exultation fluttered in Morton’s breast at the prospect of liberty, followed by the depressing recollection that he had given his word not to escape. “I cannot go with you,” he said in a voice of despair. “Why? You are well of your hurt, and you can run a mile or two if we are followed. Come, my arm will help you.” “Hemlock, had you come a fortnight ago I would have jumped at your call: I cannot tonight, for I have given my word of honor not to escape. I am a prisoner on parole.” “Honor! Did these Americans treat you as men of honor, when they put the rope round your neck? Your promise is nothing. Come!” “I cannot, Hemlock. Let them be what they may, it shall never be said that a British officer broke his word. Leave me; get away at once, or you may be caught.” “I will not leave without you. Think of the fair doe that sorrows in secret by the Chateaugay for you and sought me out to bring you. Come, you shall be with her before another sun has set.” Morton was puzzled by this speech, but was too anxious concerning Hemlock’s safety to delay by asking what it meant. “Save yourself, Hemlock; the patrol will be round soon, and if you are discovered you are lost.” “I fear not: they cannot take me alive.” “For my sake, then, go; I will not leave, I will keep the promise I have given. Consider this my friend, if you are found here it is death to me as well as you. Go.” “Not without you; I will carry you on my back, whether you will or not,” and he laid his hand upon Morton to grasp hold of him. At that moment, the sound of the tramp of an approaching detachment of soldiers was heard. “It is the patrol, Hemlock; fly for God’s sake.” Hemlock stepped to the door for an instant, then turning to Morton whispered, “they have torches and will see what I have done, and that will give the alarm. Come, go with me.” “I cannot,” said Morton decisively.