“It isn’t probable the _Lawrence_ will put to sea without us, after all the promises that have been made,” I said, almost indignant with Alec because he should seem to question my father’s good faith. “I am certain some hint would be given to us if anything of the kind were contemplated. Besides, it isn’t possible the brig could be gotten over the bar in one day.” This last argument had more weight with my comrade than any other I could have advanced, and at once he lost all care as to what might be going on, bantering me to take a stroll with him along the shore to the eastward, where could be had a good view of the lake without a very lengthy journey. “Who knows but that we may sight the bold Britishers before those in the guard-boats can do so, and thus gain considerable credit for being sharp-sighted!” he said sportively, and I took the words in good faith. “We’ll try it!” I replied so earnestly that he was provoked to mirth, and the boat’s head was turned in the direction of Fort Wayne, in front of which fortification we landed when challenged by the watchful sentinel. Once we were recognized there was no hesitation about allowing us to proceed whithersoever we pleased, and, as Alec had proposed, we directed our course along the shore of the lake. Now it must be set down here that there was no thought in my mind that we could do more than possibly sight the enemy’s fleet in the distance. I had ceased to think there was a traitor among us, and, therefore, that which occurred came as much in the nature of a surprise as if there had never been any conversation between my comrade and myself regarding the chance that information concerning our movements might be carried to the Britishers. We strolled aimlessly along the shore, talking of the time when our fleet should be out on the lake fully manned, and giving no heed to anything save what might be seen seaward, until Alec stopped suddenly, clutching me by the arm as he whispered:-- “Look just beyond that clump of bushes! Unless I am much mistaken there is a boat drawn up to prevent her from being seen!” Many seconds passed before I could make out clearly that which had attracted his attention, and then I not only saw the craft, but distinguished amid the foliage the form of a man, who was peering through the branches at us. “It is either a British spy, or the traitor who carried news to the enemy last winter!” I said excitedly, turning this way and that in the hope of seeing some one upon whom we could call for assistance. Even as I spoke the fellow in hiding drew back until it was impossible to see so much as the outlines of his form; but Alec, rendered suspicious by a glimpse of the half-hidden boat, was ready to believe that I had made no mistake.