"Alas!" the maiden murmured, "Heaven is my witness that I feel a deep friendship for you, Harry."
The young man sighed gently.
"I have done what you asked of me," he said suddenly.
"Then it is true my father is thinking about leaving this country to go further still?"
"Yes, Ellen, and into frightful countries, among the ferocious Indians."
The girl gave a start of terror.
"Do you know the reason of his going?" she continued.
"Yes; he is about to look for a gold placer."
"Alas! Who will protect me, who will defend me in future, if we go away?"
"I, Ellen!" the hunter exclaimed impetuously. "Have I not sworn to follow you everywhere?"