Rogers."
Seth took a particular interest in the winter's work because of the understanding that it was by way of preparation for the attack which would be made ere spring; and consequently he felt greatly disappointed when the design was abandoned, and the information gathered at the cost of so much danger and hardship not put to any account.
In the course of a talk with Major Rogers he opened his mind freely, and expressed in pretty strong terms his opinion of the authorities who were so liable to change their plans, and so slow to carry out anything they did decide upon.
"Perhaps you should like to try another field," remarked the Major, giving him a shrewd look, while the suspicion of a smile curved the corners of his strong mouth.
There was a significance in his tone that Seth did not miss, and he bent his eyes earnestly upon the veteran as he exclaimed:
"In another field? How do you mean? What chance have I to be anywhere else?"
"Well, that depends," responded the Major, the enigmatical smile becoming more pronounced. "Have you ever heard of Fort Duquesne?"
"Of course I have," answered Seth. "It's over there in the West, and it's doing an immense amount of harm."
"Right you are, my son; and what would you think of joining an expedition to attack it?"
"Nothing would suit me better," cried Seth, springing to his feet, and standing before the Major with his face all in a glow. "Are you going, sir? And can I go with you?"