shanty. We were too glad to
get even a glimpse of civilization again to think of hair-splitting
distinctions; and whether we did it outwardly or not, I am sure we
inwardly thanked God for supplying our wants so comfortably on these two
happy nights. There was a strong resemblance in the cabins, although
they are more than twenty miles apart. Each has the Scotchman's
"ben-place" to sleep in, partitioned off from the ordinary living room.
On the first night the two beds occupied by the settler, his wife and
children were vacated for our use, while the family, with generous
hospitality, slept on the floor in the larger room. Last night the
conditions were very similar, and again I had a bed to myself. These
homely people have a warm place in my heart, and I shall never forget
theirmiles
west of here."

"An attack by whom?" the Captain asked.

"By a company of recruits made up of Yankees and disaffected Canadians
from the lumber camps. They have heard that we are a squad of soldiers
taking supplies to Quebec, and have undertaken to surprise us and
capture the booty."

"They will have their hands full," said Cummings.

"That's what they are aiming at," chimed the Chaplain, with whom
negative virtues were always at a discount.

"We'll fill more than their hands," sternly responded the Colonel, as he
turned to Cummings. "You had better send orders to Captain Payne to join
us in full force with all possible speed."

In the meantime Sir George called a halt where they were. The place was
well sheltered, and could readily be protected against attack. He also
sent scouts forward to ascertain the strength and