"What a recommendation," said Alfred, laughing; "I really think I shall look after an Indian wife, Emma." "I think you had better," replied Emma. "You'd be certain of a quiet house,--when _you_ were out of it,--and when at home, you would have all the talk to yourself, which is just what you like. Come, Mary, let us leave him to dream of his squaw." The men selected by the commandant of the fort were well used to handle the axe; before dusk, many trees had been felled, and were ready for sawing into lengths. The tents had all been pitched: those for the Campbells on the knoll we have spoken of; Captain Sinclair's and that for the soldiers about a hundred yards distant; the fires were lighted, and as the dinner had been cold, a hot supper was prepared by Martin and Mrs Campbell, assisted by the girls and the younger boys. After supper they all retired to an early bed; Captain Sinclair having put a man as sentry, and the dogs having been tied at different places, that they might give the alarm if there was any danger; which, however, was not anticipated, as the Indians had for some time been very quiet in the neighbourhood of Fort Frontignac. CHAPTER TEN. MALACHI AND JOHN. The next morning, when they assembled at breakfast, after Mr Campbell had read the prayers, Mary Percival said, "Did you hear that strange and loud noise last night? I was very much startled with it; but, as nobody said a word, I held my tongue." "Nobody said a word, because everybody was fast asleep, I presume," said Alfred; "I heard nothing." "It was like the sound of cart-wheels at a distance, with whistling and hissing," said Mary. "I think I can explain it to you, as I was up during the night, Miss Percival," said Captain Sinclair. "It is a noise you must expect every night during the summer season; but one to which you will soon be accustomed." "Why, what was it?" "Frogs,--nothing more; except, indeed, the hissing, which, I believe, is made by the lizards. They will serenade you every night. I only hope you will not be disturbed by anything more dangerous." "Is it possible that such small creatures can make such a din?" "Yes, when thousands join in the concert; I may say millions." "Well, I thank you for the explanation, Captain Sinclair, as it has been some relief to my mind." After breakfast, Martin (we shall for the future leave out his surname) informed Mr Campbell that he had seen Malachi Bone, the hunter, who had expressed great dissatisfaction at their arrival, and his determination to quit the place if they remained. "Surely, he hardly expects us to quit the place to please him?" "No," replied Martin; "but if he were cankered in disposition, which I will say Malachi is not, he might make it very unpleasant for you to remain, by bringing the Indians about you." "Surely, he would not do that?" said Mrs Campbell. "No, I don't think he would," replied Martin; "because, you see, it's just as easy for him to go further off."