Waterbury evening Democrat., 1905-04-17

handwriting was the same as that which was handed me after the duel [ In spite of herself, Renee felt a thrill of pleasure as she heard the express sion of his high opinion of her. This, however, was instantly replaced by feeling of chagrin. as she realized from his last words 1t had been after all but surmise on his part.
 Grant, then, that 1t wss l." she said. ''It was but repaying a debt l owed you. It was because of me that the quarrel originated. would have done as much for any man. We are then quits"
 q dared not hope it was for any per- sonal reason" replied Tonti, sadly. "But tell me one thing, mademoiselle, and shall weary you no further. What have I done to merit the dis dain you have shown me ever since we met in New France? Of what wrong or discourtesy have been guilty?"
 "No wrong have you done me" was the animated reply. If you will know I shall tell you. It is because of the disappointment can but feel to find that I have aided one so unworthy; because of the shame at recalling that those lips that have uttered such false VOWS have pressed this hand. If you seek further reason, go to your wife and child so cruelty abandoned in Paris, find Madame Bizard, ask them. Meanwhile, know that your presence Is distasteful, that scorn to receive your attentions; in fact, that I hate you!" and Renee pressed her hand to her heart, that throbbed T love you" In spite of her words.
 Tonti gave start of surprise and murmurcd, That woman again!" Then gathering himself up proudly, he replied: What evil deeds or crimes you may impute to me know not. I shall, however, continue in my duty to my friend, and not desist in my en- deavors for your comfort and safety. I thank you for this interview" and gathering up his load, he bowed and left the spot, angry with himself at finding that in spite of her wrath she was magnificent, and realizing how deeply he loved her.
 Within few days all was ready for their departure. The men sailed away in the vessel laden with stores and provisions, while Tonti embarked with the two women, Pompon, and the Mo began warrior in large canoe, and, turning its prov southward soon crossed the end of the lake in safety to it's southern shore. Toward Renee he main tained the same attitude that he had before their recent interview. Again was her comfort sought in every way. When the wind blew strong or the weather threatened, a stop was made and they delayed until the skies had cleared and the water was once more calm. Game was not abundant, but fish were easily caught. Occasionally, when this diet became unpalatable, a camp was built, and several days were spent at rest, while the Indian made a trip toward the interior for venison or bear. No savages were seen, and Tonti hoped to be able to pass by the country of the Iroquois without meet ing them. Over one-half of the dis tance was traversed without mishap, and they were opposite to that por- tion of the country inhabited by the Senecas, the westernmost nation of the Iroquois confederacy, when disaster overlook them.
 They were proceeding along close to the shore because of the slight rough ness of the water, and were making all haste in order to get over this stage of their journey as rapidly as possi- ble, when they suddenly struck against the ragged edge of rock just hidden beneath the surface of the water. Such was the force of the blow that large rent was made in the bottom of the canoe, which quickly filled, ca reened to one side, and threw it's oc- cupants and contents into the lake. On coming to the surface Tonti be. held Pompon (who could not swim) clipging to the slippery surface of the tiny point of rock that had done the mischief, the canoe sunk, and the two women. whose clothing served to buoy them up. struggling wildly. With a shout to the Mohegan to save the