"I do not threaten: I warn you. You have already committed a grave fault to-day. Do not commit a grave one to-night, by obstinately refusing to let me come in."
This answer struck the Captain, and made him reflect.
"Supposing," he said presently, "I allow you to enter, who guarantees that you will not betray me? The night is dark, and you may have a large band with you, which I am unable to see."
"I have only one companion with me, for whom I answer with my head."
"Hum!" the Captain remarked, more undecided than ever, "and who will answer for you?"
"Myself."
"Who are you, as you speak our language with such correctness that you might almost be taken for one of our countrymen?"
"Well, I am nearly one; for I am a Canadian, and my name is Tranquil."
"Tranquil!" the Captain exclaimed. "Are you, then, the celebrated wood-ranger, surnamed the Panther-killer?"
"I do not know whether I am celebrated, Captain. All I am certain of is, that I am the man you refer to."