(sequence is my life to me, a poor lad without a &mily,
who owes everything to your kindness ? The hour is
come to prove my gratitude — ^let me discharge my debt."

" But " the general tried to speak.
"Tou know," the young man continued, warmly,
** if I could take your place with Dona Luz, I would
do it with joy; but I am as yet too young to play that
noble part. Come, general, let me go instead of you,
it is my duty to do so."

Half by persuasion, half by force he succeeded in
drawing the old soldier back ; he sprang upon the
intrenchments, leaped down on the other side, and set
off at fall speed, after making a last sign of fieurewell.
The general looked after him as long as he could
perceive him ; then he passed his hand across his care-
ful brow, murmuring, —

" Brave boy ! excellent nature !"

" Is he not, uncle ?" Dona Luz replied, who had
approached and listened without being seen.
" Ah ! were you there, dear child ?" he said, with a
smile, which he endeavoured in vain to render cheerful,

"Yes, dear uncle, I have heard all."

" That is well, dear little one," the general said, with
an effort; ''but this is not the time to give way to
feeling. I must think of your safety. Do not remain
here longer ; come with me ; an Indian bullet might
easily reach you here."

Taking her by the hand, he led her affectionately to
the tent.
