this unexpected address, caused him to pause a moment in manifest surprise, also. As no answer was given, and the strong emotion exhibited in the countenance of the youth gradually passed away, he continued─"But, fortunately, it is in some measure in my power to compensate you for what I have done. My kinsman, Richard Jones, has received an appointment that will, in future, deprive me of his assistance, and leaves me, just now, destitute of one who might greatly aid me with his pen. Your manner, notwithstanding appearances, is a sufficient proof of your education, nor will thy shoulder suffer thee to labour, for some time to come. My doors are open to thee, my young friend, for in this infant country we harbour no suspicions; little offering to tempt the cupidity of the evil disposed. Become my assistant, for at least a season, and receive such compensation as thy services will deserve."
There was nothing in the manner or the offer of the Judge to justify the reluctance, amounting nearly to loathing, with which the youth listened to his speech; but after a powerful effort, as if for self-command, he replied———
"I would serve you, sir, or any other man, for an honest support, for I do not affect to conceal that my necessities are very great, even beyond what appearances would indicate; but I am fearful that such new duties would interfere too much with more important business; so that I must decline your offer, and depend on my rifle, as before, for my subsistence."
Richard here took occasion to whisper to the young lady, who had shrunk a little from the foreground of the picture———
"This, you see, cousin Bess, is the natural reluctance of a half-breed to leave the savage state.
