Annette - The Metis Spy

"A very brave act, indeed, on the part of this young man," replied

the swarthy M. Riel. "He has excellent judgment, I perceive, or he

would not so readily have calculated that no harm could come to any

one who could swim well, by being carried over the Falls."

Annette's eyes flashed a little at this cold blooded discounting of

the generous, uncalculating bravery of her young preserver; but she

made no reply.

"This Monsieur Stephens is, if I mistake not, Mademoiselle, a very

zealous servant of Government, and his chief duty now is to keep

watch over the assemblies held by the Half-breed people. I cannot

suppose that Colonel Marton is aware of the intimacy between a deadly

enemy of our cause and the members of his household."

"Indeed, Monsieur, there is no intimacy more than what you have

seen," the girl replied, the roses now out of her cheek. "Thrice,

since rescuing me, Mr. Stephens has been at our home, and I believe

that, henceforth, his duty will take him to a distant part of the

territory." As she said these words her eyes fell, and her bosom

heaved a little.

Riel was upon his feet. "If I find this young spy anywhere about

this settlement again, I shall see that he is cared for." Then as

Paul and his companion went out, he drew himself to his full height

and continued: "Annette, get your heart away from this young man; such love can

only bring you ruin. From me you shall hear again, and hear soon.

Farewell." As the girl put out her hand, he drew her suddenly into

his arms, and before she could cry or struggle, kissed her upon the

mouth.

Then he was gone.