An attempt was made on the part of one of the gentlemen to create a little excitement among the ladies as we approached the spot where it had been supposed the Sauks might pass on their way to the Chippewa country.
"Who knows," said he, gravely, "but they may be lurking in this neighborhood yet?
If so, we shall probably have some signal.

We must be on the alert!" Some of the ladies began to turn pale and look about them.

After an interval of perfect silence, a low, prolonged whistle was heard.

There was so much agitation, and even actual terror, that the mischievous author of the trick was obliged to confess at once, and receive a hearty scolding for the pain he had caused.
Just before sunset of the second day from Gleason's we reached our home.
Every thing was _radiant_ with neatness and good order.

With the efficient aid of our good Manaigre and his wife, the house had been whitewashed from the roof to the door-sill, a thorough scrubbing and cleansing effected, the carpets unpacked and spread upon the floors, the furniture arranged, and, though last not least, a noble supper smoked upon the board by the time we had made, once more, a civilized toilet.
Many of our friends from the Fort were there to greet us, and a more happy or thankful party has seldom been assembled..