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THE PIONEERS.

he held in his hand, and the slight anger produced by his disappointment vanished instantly.

"Ah! 'duke, my dear cousin," he said, "step a little on one side; I have something I would say to you." Marmaduke complied, and the Sheriff led him to a little distance in the bushes, and continued—"First, 'duke, let me thank you for your friendly interest with the Council and the Governor, without which, I am confident that the greatest merit would avail but little. But we are sisters' children—we are sisters' children; and you may use me like one of your horses; ride me or drive me, 'duke, I am wholly yours. But in my humble opinion, this young companion of Leather-stocking requires looking alter. He has a very dangerous propensity for turkey."

"Leave him to my management, Dickon," said the Judge, gravely, "and I will cure his appetite by indulgence. It is with him that I would speak. Let us rejoin the sportsmen."