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He stoodfar out so as to gaze up the river, totally unconscious ofa great leather hels, his body encased in a slashed doublet, the strap fastenings of a steel breastplate showing at waist and shoulders, while high boots of yellow cordovan leather extended above his knees I noticed also the upward curve of a huge graystraight sword dangled at his side Evidently the stranger was a soldier, and one not to be despised in feats at arht merely conjecture, as his dress was not distinctive Yet it was small likelihood any other nation than Spain had armedour camp, I entertained no doubt, yet for the reat I was unable to choose my safer course,--should I withdraw silently as I came, or make quick attack? If the first, he would certainly see me recross the river, and suspectIf I sprang upon hionist), such combat could not be noiseless, and surely the felloas not alone in this wilderness How close at hand lurked his cole aroused that band of wolves, er I felt cold chills creep up , one foot uplifted, , until every vantage leftback froround, wheeled, and faced ht hand drop, with soldierly instinct, upon the sword hilt, half drawing the blade before recovering from that first impulse Then curiosity usurped the place of fear He took one step backward, still upon guard, surveying ray eye, for the other had been closed by a slashing cut, which left an ugly white scar extending half-way down his cheek Except for this defor a stern, clearly chiselled face, with a certain arrogantauthority in scenes of war A half smile of contempt played across his features as he ran ht I was little worthy of his steel It was then I recognized hireat bulk frohty sneer curl his lips, I knew him instantly as that officer who passed us in the boat with the priest