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Such were the more remarkable features of the apartment into which our adventurers were now ushered. Both looked cautiously around on entering, as if expecting to find it tenanted by spirits as daring as their own; but, with the exception of the daughter of their conductor, whose moist black eyes expressed, as much by tears as by smiles, the joy she felt at this unexpected return of her parent, no living object met their enquiring glance. The Canadian placed a couple of rush-bottonied chairs near the fire, invited his companions to seat themselves until he had completed his preparation for departure, and then, desiring Babette to hasten supper for the young hunters, quitted the room and descended the stairs.

CHAPTER XII.

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side were heaped a few dark-looking garments, the pre-act of so doing, his eye fell upon the window, at which The brightness of the wood fire had so far subsided asto cise nature of which were not distinguishable at a cur- the female still lingered. Had a blast from Heaven struck throw the interior of the room into partial obscurity, and sory and distant glance. his sight, the terror of his soul could not have been greater. under the disguise of his hood it was impossible for one He felt his cheek to pale, and his hair to bristle beneath without to distinguish the features of the taller officer. his cap, while the checked blood crept slowly and coldly, The younger, who was scarcely an object of attention, as if its very function had been paralysed; still he had passed comparatively unnoticed. presence of mind sufficient not to falter in his step, or to Fatigued and dimmed with the long and eager tension betray, by any extraordinary movement, that his eye had of its nerves, the eye of the latter now began to fail him. rested on any thing hateful to behold. For a moment he closed it; and when again it fell upon His companion had emptied his first pipe, and was in the window; it encountered nothing but the clear and the act of refilling it, when he resumed his seat. He was glittering pane. For upwards of a minute he and his evidently impatient at the delay of the Canadian, and friend still continued to rivet their gaze, but the face was already were his lips ready to give utterance to his dis- no longer visible. appointment, when he felt his foot significantly pressed Why is it that what is called the "human face divine," by that of his friend. An instinctive sense of something is sometimes gifted with a power to paralyse, that the fearful that was to ensue, but still demanding caution on most loathsome reptile in the ercation cannot attain ? his part, prevented him from turning hastily round to Had a cougar of the American forest, roaring for prey, know the cause. Satisfied, however, there was danger, appeared at that window, ready to burst the fragile barthough not of an instantaneous character, he put his rier, and fasten its talons in their hearts, its presence The position of the young men was one of embarrass-pipe gently by, and stealing his hand under his coat, would not have struck such sickness to the soul of our ment; for while the daughter, who was busied in execut- again grasped the hilt of his dagger. At length he adventurers as did that human face. It is, that man, ing the command of her father, remained in the room, slowly and partially turned his head, while his eyes er-naturally fierce and inexorable, is alone the enemy of his it was impossible they could converse together without quiringly demanded of his friend the cause of this alarm.wn species. The solution of this problem-this glorious betraying the secret of their country, and, as a result of Partly to aid in concealing his increasing paleness, and paradox in nature, we leave to profounder philosophers this, the falsehood of the character under which they ap- partly with a view to render it a medium for the convey to resolve. Sufficient for us be it to know, and to depeared. Long residence in the country had, it is true, ance of subdued sound, the hand of the latter was raised plore that it is so. rendered the patois of that class of people whom to his face in such a manner that the motion of his lips Footsteps were now heard upon the stairs; and the they personated familiar to one, but the other spoke only could not be distinguished from behind. officers, aroused to a full sense of their danger, hastily the pure and native language of which it was a corrup "We are betrayed," he scarcely breathed. "If you and silently prepared themselves for the encounter. tion. It might have occurred to them at a cooler moment, can command yourself, turn and look at the window; Drop a bullet into your gun," whispered the elder, and under less critical circumstances, that, even if their but for God's sake arm yourself with resolution, or look setting the example himself. "We may be obliged to disguise had been penetrated, it was unlikely a female, not at all: first draw the hood over your head, and without have recourse to it at last. Yet make no show of hosmanifesting so much lively affection for her parent, would any appearance of design. Our only chance of safety tility unless circumstances satisfy us we are betrayed; have done aught to injure those with whom he had evi- lies in this, that the Canadian may still be true, and then, indeed, all that remains for us will be to sell our dently connected himself. But the importance attached that our disguise may not be penetrated." lives as dearly as we can. Hist! he is here." to their entire security from danger left them but little room for reflections of a calming character, while a doubt of that security remained.

In despite of his native courage,-and this had often The door opened! and at the entrance, which was been put to honourable proof,-he, thus mysteriously adalready filled up in the imaginations of the young men dressed, felt his heart to throb violently. There was One singularity struck them both. They had expected something so appalled in the countenance of his friend with a terrible and alarming figure, appeared one whose return had been anxiously and long desired. It was a the young woman, urged by a natural curiosity, would something so alarming in the very caution he had re-relief, indeed, to their gallant but excited hearts to behold have commenced a conversation, even if they did not; commended that a vague dread of the horrible reality another than the form they had expected; and although, and he who spoke the patois was prepared to sustain it as rushed at once to his mind, and for a moment his own for the moment, they knew not whether the Canadian well as his anxious and overcharged spirit would enable cheek became ashy pale, and his breathing painfully came in hostility or in friendship, each quitted the attihim; and as he was aware the morning had furnished oppressed. It was the natural weakness of the physical sufficient incident of fearful interest, he had naturally man, over which the moral faculties, had, for an instant, lost tude of caution into which he had thrown himself, and looked for a verbal re-enactment of the harrowing and their directing power. Speedily recovering himself, the met him midway in his passage through the room. There was nothing in the expression of his naturally dreadful scene. To their surprise, however, they both young man prepared to encounter the alarming object remarked that, far from evincing a desire to enter into which had already so greatly intimidated his friend. open and good-humoured countenance to denote he was conversation, the young woman scarcely ever looked at Carefully drawing the blanket hood over his head, he at all aware of the causes for alarm that had operated them, but lingered constantly near the table, and facing rose from his seat, and, with the energetic movement of so powerfully on themselves. He announced with a frank look and unfaltering voice every thing was in the window, Still, to avoid an appearance of singularity one who has formed some desperate determination, readiness for their departure.

on their own parts, as far as possible, the elder of the offi- turned his back to the fire-place, and threw his eyes

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cers motioned to his companion, who, following his ex-rapidly and eagerly upon the window. They fell only The officers hesitated; and the taller fixed his eyes ample, took a small pipe and some tobacco from a com- on the rude patchwork of which it was principally com- upon those of mine host, as if his gaze would have penetrated to the innermost recesses of his heart. Could this partment in his shot pouch, and commenced puffing the posed. The female had quitted the room. wreathing smoke from his lips,-an occupation, more "You must have been deceived," he whispered, keep-be a refinement of his treachery? and was he really ig than any other, seeming to justify their silence. ing his eye still bent upon the window, and with so im- norant of the existence of the danger which threatened The elder officer sat with his back to the window, and perceptible a movement of the lips that sound alone them? Was it not more probable his object was to disarm immediately in front of the fire; his companion, at a could have betrayed he was speaking, "I see nothing their fears, that they might be given unprepared and, corner of the rude hearth, and in such a manner that, to justify your alarm. Look again." therefore, unresisting victims to the ferocity of their without turning his head, he could command every part The younger officer once more directed his glance to- enemies? Aware as he was, that they were both well of the room at a glance. In the corner facing him stood wards the window, and with a shuddering of the whole provided with arms, and fully determined to use them the bed already described. A faint ray of fire-light fell person, as he recollected what had met his eye when he with effect, might not his aim be to decoy them to deon some minute object glittering in the chair, the con- last looked upon it. "It is no longer there, indeed," he struction without, lest the blood spilt under his roof, in tents of which were heaped up in disorder. Urged by returned in the same scarcely audible tone. "Yet I the desperation of their defence, should hereafter attest that wayward curiosity, which is sometimes excited, even could not be mistaken; it was between those two corner against him, and expose him to the punishment he under circumstances of the greatest danger and other-squares of wood in the lower sash." would so richly merit? Distracted by these doubts, the wise absorbing interest, the young man kicked the hick- "Perhaps it was merely a reflection produced by the young men scarcely knew what to think or how to act; ory log that lay nearest to it with his moccasined foot, lamp on the centre pane," rejoined his friend, still keep- and anxious as they had previously been to quit the hut, and produced a bright crackling flame, the reflection of ing his eye riveted on the suspicious point. Impossi- they now considered the moment of their doing so would which was thrown entirely upon the object of his gaze; ble! but I will examine the window from the spot on be that of their destruction. The importance of the it was a large metal button, on which the number of his which I stood when I first beheld it." enterprise on which they were embarked was such as to regiment was distinctly visible. Unable to check his de- Again he quitted his seat, and carelessly crossed the sink all personal considerations. If they had felt the sire to know further, he left his seat, to examine the con-room. As he returned he threw his glance upon the influence of intimidation on their spirits, it arose less tents of the chair. As he moved across the room, he pane, when, to his infinite horror and surprise, the same from any apprehension of consequences to themselves, fancied he heard a light sound from without; his com- frightful vision presented itself. than from the recollection of the dearer interests involved panion, also, seemed to manifest a similar impression by "God of heaven!" he exclaimed aloud, and unable in their perfect security from discovery. an almost imperceptible start; but the noise was so mo- longer to check the ebullition of his feelings," what "François," feelingly urged the taller officer, again mentary, and so fanciful, neither felt it worth his while means this?-Is my brain turned? and am I the sport adverting to his vow, "you recollect the oath you solemnly to pause upon the circumstance. The young officer now of my own delusive fancy-Do you not see it now?" pledged upon the cross of your Saviour. Tell me, then, raised the garments from the chair: they consisted of a No answer was returned. His friend stood mute and as you hope for mercy, have you taken that oath only small grey great-coat, and trowsers, a waistcoat of coarse motionless, with his left hand grasping his gun, and his that you might the more securely betray us to our enewhite cloth, a pair of worsted stockings, and the half- right thrust into the waist of his coat. His eye grew mies? What connection have you with them at this mo boots of a boy; the whole forming the drum-boy's equip-upon the window, and his chest heaved, and his cheek ment? and who is he who stood looking through that ment worn by the wretched wife of Halloway when paled and flushed alternately with the subdued emotion window not ten minutes since?"

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borne senseless into the hut on that fatal morning. Hasti- of his heart. A human face was placed close to the un- "As I shall hope for mercy in my God," exclaimed ly quitting a dress that called up so many dreadful recol- blemished glass, and every feature was distinctly revealed the Canadian with unfeigned astonishment, "I have not lections, and turning to his companion with a look that by the lamp that still lay upon the table. The glaring see nobody. But what for do you tink so? It is not denoted apprehension, lest he too should have beheld eye was fixed on the taller of the officers; but though the just. I have given my oat to serve you, and I sha these melancholy remembrances of the harrowing scene, expression was unfathomably guileful, there was nothing do it."

the young officer hastened to resume his seat. In the that denoted any thing like a recognition of the party. There was candour both in the tone and countenance

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of the man as he uttered these words, half in reproach, shoulder. He turned, shuddering with an instinctive ance. About daybreak, however, on the morning of the half in justification; and the officers no longer doubted. knowledge of his yet unseen visitant, and beheld standing third, the harassed garison were once more summoned "You must forgive our suspicions at a moment like over him the terrible warrior of the Fleur de lis. to arms, by an alarm from the sentinels planted in rear the present," soothingly observed the younger; "yet, Ha, ha, ha!" laughed the savage, in a low triumphant of the works; a body of Indians they had traced and lost François, your daughter saw and exchanged signals tone, "the place of our meeting is well timed, though at intervals, as they wound along the skirt of the forest, with the person we mean. She left the room soon after somewhat singular, it must be confessed. Nay," he in their progress from their encampment, were at length be made his appearance. What has become of her?” hercely added, grasping as in a vice the arm that was developing themselves in force near the boinb-proof. The Canadian gave a sudden start, looked hastily round, already lifted to strike him, "force me not to annihilate With a readiness which long experience and watchfuland seemed to perceive for the first time the girl was you on the spot. Ha! hear you the cry of my wolf-dog?" ness had rendered in some degree habitual to them, the absent. He then put a finger to his lip to enjoin silence, as that animal now set up a low but fearful howl; it troops flew to their respective posts; while a few of the advanced to the table, and extinguished the light. De is for your blood he asks, but your hour is not yet come." senior officers, among whom was the governor, hastened siring his companions, in a low whisper, to tread cau- "No, by heaven, is it not!" exclaimed a voice; a to the ramparts to reconnoitre the strength and purpose tiously and follow, he now led the way with almost rapid and rushing sweep was heard through the air for of their enemies. It was evident the views of these latnoiseless step to the entrance of the hut. At the thresh- an instant, and then a report like a stunning blow. The ter were not immediately hostile; for neither were they old of the door were placed a large well-filled sack, a warrior released his grasp-placed his hand upon his in their war paint, nor were their arms of a description light mast and sail, and half a dozen paddles. The latter tomahawk, but without strength to remove it from his to carry intimidation to a disciplined and fortified burden he divided between the officers, on whose shoulders belt tottered a pace or two backwards-and then fell, soldiery. Bows, arrows, tomahawks, war clubs, spears, he carefully balanced them. The sack he threw across uttering a cry of mingled pain and disappointment, at and scalping knives, constituted their warlike equipments, his own; and, without expressing even a regret that an his length upon the earth. "Quick, quick to our cover!" but neither rifle nor fire-arms of any kind were discerniopportunity of bidding adieu to his child was denied him, exclaimed the young officer, as a loud shout was now ble. Several of the leaders, distinguishable by a cerhastily skirted the paling of the orchard until, at the heard from the forest in reply to the yell of the fallen tain haughty carriage and commanding gesticulation, further extremity, he had gained the high road. The warrior. "If François come not, we are lost: the were collected within the elevated bomb-proof, apparently heavens were obscured by passing clouds driven rapidly howl of that wolf-dog alone will betray us, even if his holding a short but important conference apart from by the wind, during the short pauses of which our ad- master should be beyond all chance of recovery." their people, most of whom stood or lay in picturesque venturers anxiously and frequently turned to listen if Desperate diseases require desperate remedies," was attitudes around the ruin. These also had a directing they were pursued. Save the rustling of the trees that the reply; "there is little glory in destroying a helpless spirit. A tall and noble looking warrior, wearing a dcer lined the road, and the slight dashing of the waters on enemy, but the necessity is urgent, and we must leave skin hunting frock closely girded around his loins, apthe beach, however, no sound was distinguishable. At nothing to chance." As he spoke, he knelt upon the peared to command the deference of his colleagues, length they gained the point whence they were to start. huge form of the senseless warrior, whose scalping knife claiming profound attention when he spoke himself, and It was the fatal bridge, the events connected with which he drew from its sheath, and striking a firm and steady manifesting his assent or dissent to the apparently exwere yet so painfully fresh in their recollection. blow, quitted not the weapon until he felt his hand re-pressed opinions of the lesser chiefs merely by a slight "Stop one minutes here," whispered the Canadian, posing on the chest of his enemy. The howl of the movement of the head. throwing his sack upon the sand near the mouth of the wolf-dog, whose eyes glared like two burning coals "There he is indeed!" exclaimed Captain Erskine, lesser river; "my canoe is chain about twenty yards up through the surrounding gloom, was now exchanged to speaking as one who communes with his own thoughts, de bridge. I shall come to you directly." Then caution- a fierce and snappish bark. He made a leap at the while he kept his telescope levelled on the form of the ing the officers to keep themselves concealed under the officer while in the act of rising from the body; but his last warrior: "looking just as noble as when, three years bridge, he moved hastily under the arch, and disappeared fangs fastened only in the chest of the shaggy coat, ago, he opposed himself to the progress of the first in the dark shadow which it threw across the rivulet. which he wrung with the strength and fury characteris-English detachment that had ever penetrated to this part The extremities of the bridge rested on the banks of tie of his peculiar species. This new and ferocious of the world. What a pity such a fine fellow should be the little river in such a manner as to leave a narrow attack was fraught with danger little inferior to that so desperate and determined an enemy!" passage along the sands immediately under the declina- which they had just escaped, and required the utmost "True: you were with Major Rogers on that expedi tion of the arch. In accordance with the caution of their promptitude of action. The young man seized the brute tion," observed the governor, "I have often heard him conductor, the officers had placed themselves under it; behind the neck in a firm and vigorous grasp, while he speak of it. You had many difficulties to contend and with their backs slightly bent forward to meet the stooped upon the motionless form over which this novel against, if I recollect." "We had indeed, sir," returned curvature of the bridge, so that no ray of light could struggle was maintained, and succeeded in making the frank-hearted Erskine, dropping the glass from his pass between their bodies and the fabric itself, now himself once more master of the scalping knife. Half eye. "So many, in fact, that more than once, in the awaited the arrival of the vessel on which their only hope choked by the hand that unflinchingly grappled with him, course of our progress through the wilderness, did I wish depended. We shall not attempt to describe their feel- the savage animal quitted his hold and struggled violently myself at head-quarters with my company. Never shall ings on finding themselves, at that lone hour of the to free himself. This was the critical moment. The I forget the proud and determined expression of Ponteac's night, immediately under a spot rendered fearfully officer drew the heavy sharp blade, from the handle to countenance, when he told Rogers, in his figurative lanmemorable by the tragic occurrences of the morning. the point, across the throat of the infuriated beast, with guage, he stood in the path in which he travelled.'" The terrible pursuit of the fugitive, the execution of the a force that divided the principal artery. He made a "Thank heaven, he at least stands not in the path in soldier, the curse and prophecy of his maniac wife, and, desperate leap upwards, spouting his blood over his de- which others travel," musingly rejoined the governor. above all, the forcible abduction and threatened espousal stroyer, and then fell gasping across the body of his "But what sudden movement is that within the ruin ?" of that unhappy woman by the formidable being who master. A low growl, intermingled with faint attempts "The Indians are preparing to show a white flag," seemed to have identified himself with the evils with which to bark, which the rapidly oozing life rendered more and shouted an artillery man from his station in one of the they stood menaced, all rushed with rapid tracery on more indistinct, succeeded; and at length nothing but a embrasures below. the mind, and excited the imagination, until each, filled gurgling sound was distinguishable. with a sentiment not unallied to superstitious awe, feared to whisper forth his thoughts, lest in so doing he should invoke the presence of those who had principally figured in the harrowing and revolting scene.

"Did you not hear a noise?" at length whispered the elder, as he leaned himself forward, and bent his head to the sand, to catch more distinctly a repetition of the sound.

"I did; there again! It is upon the bridge, and not unlike the step of one endeavouring to tread lightly. It may be some wild beast, however."

The governor and his officers received this intelligence Meanwhile the anxious and harassed officers had rc- without surprise: the former took the glass from Captain gained their place of concealment under the bridge, Erskine, and coolly raised it to his eye. The consultawhere they listened with suppressed breathing for the tion had ceased; and the several chiefs, with the excep slightest sound to indicate the approach of the canoe. At tion of their leader and two others, were now seen quitting intervals they fancied they could hear a noise resembling the bomb-proof to join their respective tribes. One of the rippling of water against the prow of a light vessel, those who remained, sprang upon an elevated fragment but the swelling cries of a band of Indians, becoming at of the ruin, and uttered a prolonged ery, the purport of every instant more distinct, were too unceasingly kept which,-and it was fully understood from its peculiar up to admit of their judging with accuracy. naturc,-was to claim attention from the fort. He then

They now began to give themselves up for lost, and received from the hands of the other chief a long spear; many and bitter were the curses they inwardly bestowed to the end of which was attached a piece of white linen. We must not be taken by surprise," returned his on the Canadian, when the outline of a human form was This he waved several times above his head; then stuck companion. "If it be a man, the wary tread indicates seen advancing along the sands, and a dark object upon the barb of the spear firmly into the projecting fragment. consciousness of our presence. If an animal, there can the water. It was their conductor, dragging the canoe Quitting his elevated station, he next stood at the side be no harm in setting our fears at rest." Cautiously along, with all the strength and activity of which he of the Ottawa chief, who had already assumed the air stealing from his lurking-place, the young officer emerged was capable. and attitude of one waiting to obscrve in what manner into the open sands, and in a few measured noiseless What the devil have you been about all this time, his signal would be received. strides gained the extremity of the bridge. The dark François ?" exclaimed the taller officer, as he bounded to "A flag of truce in all its bearings, by Jupiter!" reshadow of something upon its centre caught his eye, and meet him. "Quick, quick, or we shall be too late. marked Captain Erskine. "Ponteac scems to have a low sound like that of a dog lapping met his ear. While Hear you not the blood-hounds on their scent?" Then acquired a few lessons since we first met." his gaze yet lingered on the shapeless object, endeavour-seizing the chain in his hand, with a powerful effort he "This is evidently the suggestion of some European," ing to give it a character, the clouds which had so long sent the canoe flying through the arch to the very en-observed Major Blackwater; "for how should he underobscured it passed momentarily from before the moon, trance of the river. The burdens that had been de- stand any thing of the nature of a white flag? Some of and disclosed the appalling truth. It was a wolf-dog posited on the sands were hastily flung in, the officers these vile spies have put him up to this." lapping up from the earth, in which they were encrusted, stepping lightly after. The Canadian took the helm, "Truc enough, Blackwater; and they appear to have the blood and brains of the unfortunate Frank Halloway. directing the frail vessel almost noiselessly through the found an intelligent pupil," observed Captain Wentworth. Sick and faint at the disgusting sight, the young man water, and with such velocity, that when the cry, of the "I was curious to know how he would make the attempt rested his elbow on the railing that passed along the edge disappointed savages was heard resounding from the to approach us; but certainly never once dreamt of his of the bridge, and, leaning his head on his hand for a bridge, it had already gained the centre of the Detroit. having recourse to so civilised a method. Their plot moment, forgot the risk of exposure he incurred, in the works well, no doubt; still we have the counter-plot tø intenseness of the sorrow that assailed his soul. His CHAPTER XIII. oppose to it." heart and imagination were already far from the spot on Two days had succeeded the departure of the officers "We must foil them with their own weapons," rewhich he stood, when he felt an iron hand upon his from the fort, but unproductive of any event of import-marked the governor, "even if it be only with a view to

"What generous confidence the fellow has for an Indian!" observed Captain Erskine, who could not dissemble his admiration of the warrior. "He steps as firmly and as proudly within reach of our muskets, as if he was leading in the war-dance."

"How strange," mused Captain Blessington," that one who meditates so deep a treachery, should have no apprehension of it in others!"

"It is a compliment to the honour of our flag," observed the governor, "which it must be our interest to encourage. If, as you say, Erskine, the man is really endowed with generosity, the result of this affair will assuredly call it forth."

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gain time. Wentworth, desire one of your bombardiers insult in his blood. The same low guttural exclamations again suddenly disappeared from the surface of the ramto hoist the large French flag on the staff." The order that had previously escaped their lips, marked the sense part; so that when the Indians finally perceived their was promptly obeyed. The Indians made a simultaneous entertained of the remark by his companions. leader stood unharmed and unmolested, on the spot he movement expressive of their satisfaction; and in the "My father is right," pursued the chief, resuming his had previously occupied, the excitement died away, and course of a minute, the tall warrior, accompanied by self-command; "the Ottawas, and the other tribes, ask they once more assumed their attitude of profound attennearly a dozen inferior chiefs, was seen slowly advancing for peace, but not because they are afraid of war. When tion. across the common, towards the group of officers. they strike the hatchet into the war post, they leave it "What thinks the great chief of the Ottawas now?” there until their enemies ask them to take it out." asked the governor ;-" did he imagine that the young Why come they now, then, to ask for peace?" was white men lie sleeping like beavers in their dams, when the cool demand. The warrior hesitated, evidently at a the hunter sets his traps to catch them?-did he imaloss to give a reply that could reconeile the palpable con- gine that they foresce not the designs of their enemies? tradiction of his words. "The rich furs of our forests and that they are not always on the watch to prevent have become many," he at length observed," since we them?" first took up the hatchet against the Saganaw; and every My father is a great warrior," returned the Indian ; bullet we keep for our enemies is a loss to our trade. We" and if his arm is full of strength, his head is full of wisonce exchanged furs with the children of our father of dom. The chiefs will no longer hesitate;-they will the pale flag. They gave us, in return, guns, blankets, enter the strong hold of the Saganaw, and sit with him powder, ball, and all that the red man requires in the in the council." He next addressed a few words, and in hunting season. These are all expended; and my young a language not understood by those upon the walls, to men would deal with the Saganaw as they did with the one of the younger of the Indians. The latter acknow"If it prove otherwise, sir," was the reply, "we must French." ledged his sense and approbation of what was said to him only attribute his perseverance to the influence which "Good; the red skins would make peace; and although by an assentient and expressive "ugh!" which came that terrible warrior of the Fleur de lis is said to exercise the arm of the Saganaw is strong, he will not turn a deaf from his chest without any apparent emotion of the lips, over his better feelings. By the by, I see nothing of ear to their desire." much in the manner of a modern ventriloquist. He then him among this flag of truce party. It could scarcely "All the strong holds of the Saganaw, except two, hastened, with rapid and lengthened boundings, across be called a violation of faith to cut off such a rascally rc- have fallen before the great chief of the Ottawas!" the common towards his band. After the lapse of a minegade. Were he of the number of those advancing, proudly returned the Indian, with a look of mingled nute or two from reaching them, another simultaneous and Valletort's rifle within my reach, I know not what scorn and defiance. "They, too, thought themselves cry arose, differing in expression from any that had hithuse I might not be tempted to make of the last." beyond the reach of our tomahawks; but they were de-erto been heard. It was one denoting submission to the Poor Erskine was singularly infelicitous in touching,ceived. In less than a single moon nine of them have will, and compliance with some conveyed desire, of their and ever unconsciously, on a subject sure to give pain to fallen, and the tents of my young warriors are darkened superior. more than one of his brother officers. A cloud passed with their scalps; but this is past. If the red skin asks "Is the gate of the Saganaw open?" asked the latter, over the brow of the governor, but it was one that ori- for peace, it is because he is tired of seeing the blood of as soon as his ear had been greeted with the cry we have ginated more in sorrow than in anger. Neither had he the Saganaw on his tomahawk. Does my father hear?" just named. "The Ottawa and the other great chiefs time to linger on the painful recollections hastily and "We will listen to the great chief of the Ottawas, and are ready;-their hearts are bold, and they throw themconfusedly called up by the allusion made to this formi- hear what he has to say," returned the governor, who, as selves into the hands of the Saganaw without fear." dable and mysterious being, for the attention of all was well as the officers at his side, could with difficulty con- "The Ottawa chief knows the path," drily rejoined now absorbed by the approaching Indians. With a bold ceal their disgust and sorrow at the dreadful intelligence the governor: "when he comes in peace, it is ever open and confiding carriage the fierce Ponteac moved at the thus imparted of the fates of their companions. "But to him; but when his young men press it with the tomahead of his little party, nor hesitated one moment in his peace," he pursued with dignity, "can only be made in hawk in their hands, the big thunder is roused to anger, course, until he got near the brink of the ditch, and stood the council room, and under the sacred pledge of the and they are scattered away like the leaves of the forest face to face with the governor, at a distance that gave calumet. The great chief has a wampum belt on his in the storm. Even now," he pursued, as the little band both parties not only the facility of tracing the expres-shoulder, and a calumet in his hand. His aged warriors, of Indians moved slowly round the walls," the gate of the sion of each other's features, but of conversing without too, are at his side. What says the Ottawa? Will he Saganaw opens for the Ottawa and the other chiefs.” effort. There he made a sudden stand, and thrusting enter? If so, the gate of the Saganaw shall be open to "Let the most vigilant caution be used every where his spear into the earth, assumed an attitude as devoid of him." The warrior started; and for a moment the con-along the works, but especially in the rear," continued apprehension as if he had been in the heart of his own fidence that had hitherto distinguished him seemed to the governor, addressing Captain Blessington, on whom encampment. give place to an apprehension of meditated treachery. the duty of the day had devolved. "We are safe, while their He, however, speedily recovered himself, and observed chiefs arc with us; but still it will be necessary to watch emphatically, "It is the great head of all the nations the forest closely. We cannot be too much on our guard. whom my father invites to the council seat. Were he The men had better remain concealed, every twentieth to remain in the hands of the Saganaw, his young men file only standing up to form a look-out chain. If any would lose their strength. They would bury the hatchet movement of a suspicious nature be observed, let it be "The strong hold of the Saganaw is his safeguard," for ever in despair, and hide their faces in the laps of communicated by the discharge of a single musket, that replied the governor, adopting the language of the In- their women." the drawbridge may be raised on the instant." With dian. "When the enemies of his great father come in "Does the Ottawa chief see the pale flag on the strong the delivery of these brief instructions he quitted the strength, he knows how to disperse them; but when a hold of his enemies. While that continues to fly, he is rampart with the majority of his officers. Meanwhile, warrior throws himself unarmed into his power, he re-safe as if he were under the cover of his own wigwam. hasty preparations had been made in the mess-room to spects his confidence, and his arms hang rusting at his If the Saganaw could use guile like the fox," (and this receive the chiefs. The tables had been removed, and a side." was said with marked emphasis,) "what should prevent number of clean rush mats, manufactured after the Inhim from cutting off the Ottawa and his chiefs, even dian manner, into various figures and devices, spread where they now stand?" A half smile of derision carefully upon the floor. At the further end from the passed over the dark cheek of the Indian. "If the arm of entrance was placed a small table and chair, covered an Ottawa is strong," he said, “his foot is not less swift. with scarlet cloth. This was considerably elevated above The short guns of the chiefs of the Saganaw" (pointing the surface of the floor, and intended for the governor. to the pistols of the officers)" could not reach us; and On either side of the room near these, were ranged a before the voice of our father could be raised, or his eye number of chairs for the accommodation of the inferior turned, to call his warriors to his side, the Ottawa would officers. be already far on his way to the forest." Major Blackwater received the chiefs at the gate."

"My father has understood my sign," said the haughty chief. "The warriors of a dozen tribes are far behind the path the Ottawa has just travelled; but when the red skin comes unarmed, the hand of the Saganaw is tied behind his back."

"The talk of my father is big," replied the warrior, with a scornful expression that seemed to doubt the fact of so much indifference as to himself; but when it is a great chief who directs the nations, and that chief his sworn enemy, the temptation to the Saganaw may be strong."

"The Saganaw is without fear," emphatically rejoined the governor; "he is strong in his own honour; and he would rather die under the tomahawk of the red skin, than procure a peace by an act of treachery."

The Indian paused; cold, calm looks of intelligence passed between him and his followers, and a few indistinct and guttural sentences were exchanged among

themselves.

"The great chief of the Ottawas shall judge better of With a firm, proud step, rendered more confident by his the Saganaw," returned the governor. "He shall see very unwillingness to betray any thing like fear, the tall, that his young men are ever watchful at their posts:- and, as Captain Erskine had justly designated him, the Up, men, and show yourselves." A second or two suf-noble-looking Ponteac trod the yielding planks that ficed to bring the whole of Captain Erskine's company, might in the next moment cut him off from his people "But our father asks not why our mocassins have who had been lying flat on their faces, to their feet on for ever. The other chiefs, following the example of brushed the dew from off the common," resumed the the rampart. The Indians were evidently taken by sur- their leader, evinced the same easy fearlessness of dechief; "and yet it is long since the Saganaw and the prise, though they evinced no fear. The low and guttu- meanour, nor glanced once behind them to see if there red skin have spoken to each other, except through the ral "ugh!" was the only expression they gave to their was any thing to justify the apprehension of hidden danwar whoop. My father must wonder to see the great astonishment, not unmingled with admiration. ger. chief of the Ottawas without the hatchet in his hand." But, although the chiefs preserved their presence of The Ottawa was evidently mortified at not being re"The hatchet often wounds those who use it unskil-mind, the sudden appearance of the soldiers had excited ceived by the governor in person. "My father is not fully," calmly returned the governor. "The Saganaw is alarm among their warriors, who, grouped in and around here!" he said fiercely to the major:-"how is this? not blind. The Ottawas and the other tribes find the the bomb-proof, were watching every movement of the The Ottawa and the other chiefs are kings of all their war paint heavy on their skins. They see that my young conferring parties, with an interest proportioned to the tribes. The head of one great people should be received men are not to be conquered, and they have sent the risk they conceived their head men had incurred in ven- only by the head of another great people!" great head of all the nations to sue for peace." turing under the very walls of their enemies. Fierce "Our father sits in the council-hall," returned the In spite of the habitual reserve and self-possession of yells were uttered; and more than a hundred dusky war- major. "He has taken his seat that he may receive the his race, the haughty warrior could not repress a move-riors, brandishing their tomahawks in air, leaped along warriors with becoming honour. But I am the second ment of impatience at the bold and taunting language of the skirt of the common, evidently only awaiting the sig-chief, and our father has sent me to receive them." To his enemy, and for a moment there was a fire in his eye nal of their great chief, to advance and cover his retreat. the proud spirit of the Indian this explanation scarcely that told how willingly he would have washed away the At the command of the governor, however, the men had sufficed. For a moment he seemed to struggle, as if en

23

deavouring to stifle his keen sense of an affront put upon strong holds of the Saganaw have been destroyed. How said is false. The Shawanees and the Delawares are him. At length he nodded his head haughtily and conde- could the Ottawa go with deceit upon his lips, when his great nations; but the Ottawas are greater than any, and scendingly, in token of assent; and gathering up his words were truth?" their chiefs are full of wisdom. The Shawanees and the

CHAPTER XIV.

noble form, and swelling out his chest, as if with a view "When the red skins said so to the warriors of the Delawares had no talk with the Ottawa chief to make to strike terror as well as admiration into the hearts of last forts they took, they said true; but when they went him do what his own wisdom did not tell him." those by whom he expected to be surrounded, stalked to the first, and said that all the rest had fallen, they used "Then, if the talk came not from the Shawanees and majestically forward at the head of his confederates. deceit. A great nation should overcome their enemies the Delawares, it came from the spies of the warriors of An indifferent observer, or one ignorant of these peo- like warriors, and not seek to beguile them with their the pale flag. The great father of the French was angry ple, would have been at fault; but those who understood tongues under the edge of the scalping knife!" with the great father of the Saganaw, because he conthe workings of an Indian's spirit could not have been "Why did the Saganaw come into the country of the quered his warriors in many battles; and he sent wicked deceived by the tranquil exterior of these men. The ra- red skins?" haughtily demanded the chief. "Why did men to whisper lies of the Saganaw into the ears of the pid, keen, and lively glance-the suppressed sneer of ex- they take our hunting grounds from us? Why have red skins, and to make them take up the hatchet against ultation-the half start of surprise-the low, guttural, they strong places encircling the country of the Indians, them. There is a tall spy at this moment in the camp and almost inaudible "ugh!"-all these indicated the like a belt of wampum round the waist of a warrior ?" of the red skins," he pursued with earnestness, and yet eagerness with which, at one sly but compendious view, "This is not true," rejoined the governor. "It was paling as he spoke. "It is said he is the bosom friend they embraced the whole interior of a fort which it was not the Saganaw, but the warriors of the pale flag, who of the great chief of the Ottawas. But I will not believe of such vital importance to their future interests they first came and took away the hunting grounds, and it. The head of a great nation would not be the friend should become possessed of, yet which they had so long built the strong places. The great father of the Saganaw of a spy-of one who is baser than a dog. His people and so unsuccessfully attempted to subdue. As they ad- had beaten the great father of the pale flag quite out of the would despise him; and they would say, Our chief is vanced into the square, they looked around, expecting to Canadas, and he sent his young men to take their place not fit to sit in council, or to make war; for he is led by behold the full array of their enemies; but, to their asto- and to make peace with the red skins, and to trade with the word of a pale face who is without honour.'" nishment, not a soldier was to be seen. A few women them, and to call them brothers." The swarthy cheek of the Indian reddened, and his and children only, in whom curiosity had overcome a "The Saganaw was false," retorted the Indian.-eye kindled into fire. "There is no spy, but a great natural loathing and repugnance to the savages, were "When a chief of the Saganaw came for the first time warrior in the camp of the Ottawas," he fiercely replied. peeping from the windows of the block-houses. Even at with his warriors into the country of the Ottawas, the Though he came from the country that lies beyond the a moment like the present, the fierce instinct of these chief of the Ottawas stood in his path, and asked him salt lake, he is now a chief of the red skins, and his arm latter was not to be controlled. One of the children, ter- why, and from whom, he came? That chief was a is mighty, and his heart is big. Would my father know rified at the wild appearance of the warriors, screamed bold warrior, and his heart was open, and the Ottawa why he has become a chief of the Ottawas?" he pursued violently, and clung to the bosom of its mother for pro-liked him; and when he said he came to be friendly with with scornful exultation. "When the strong holds of tection. Fired at the sound, a young chief raised his the red skins, the Ottawa believed him, and he shook the Saganaw fell, the tomahawk of the white warrior' hand to his lips, and was about to peal forth his terrible him by the hand, and said to his young men, Touch drank more blood than that of a red skin, and his tent war whoop in the very centre of the fort, when the eye of not the life of a Saganaw; for their chief is the friend of is hung round with poles bending under the weight of the Ottawa suddenly arrested him. the Ottawa chief, and his young men shall be the friends the scalps he has taken. When the great chief of the of the red warriors.' Look," he proceeded, marking his Ottawas dies, the pale face will lead his warriors, and sense of the discovery by another of those ejaculatory take the first seat in the council. The Ottawa chief is "ughs!" so expressive of surprise in an Indian, "at the his friend." right hand of my father I see a chief," pointing to "If the pale face be the friend of the Ottawa," purCaptain Erskine, "who came with those of the Saganaw sued the governor, in the hope of obtaining some partiwho first entered the country of the Detroit;-ask that cular intelligence in regard to this terrible and mystechief if what the Ottawa says is not true. When the rious being, "why is he not here to sit in council with Saganaw said he came only to remove the warriors of the chiefs? Perhaps," he proceeded tauntingly, as he the pale flag, that he might be friendly and trade with the fancied he perceived a disinclination on the part of the red skins, the Ottawa received the belt of wampum he Indian to account for the absence of the warrior," the offered, and smoked the pipe of peace with him, and he pale face is not worthy to take his place among the head made his men bring bags of parched corn to his warriors men of the council. His arm may be strong like that who wanted food, and he sent to all the nations on the lakes, of a warrior, but his head may be weak like that of a and said to them, The Saganaw must pass unhurt to the woman; or, perhaps, he is ashamed to show himself bcstrong hold on the Detroit.' But for the Ottawa, not a fore the pale faces, who have turned him out of their Saganaw would have escaped; for the nations were tribe." thirsting for their blood, and the knives of the warriors My father lies!" again unceremoniously retorted the were eager to open their scalps. Ask the chief who sits warrior. "If the friend of the Ottawa is not here, it is This is well," at length observed the governor. "It at the right hand of my father," he again energetically because his voice cannot speak. Does my father recolis long since the great chiefs of the nations have smoked repeated, "if what the Ottawa says is not truc." lect the bridge on which he killed his young warrior? the sweet grass in the council hall of the Saganaw. What "What the Ottawa says is true," rejoined the gover-Does he recollect the terrible chase of the pale face by have they to say, that their young men may have peace nor; for the chief who sits on my right hand has often the friend of the Ottawa? Ugh!" he continued, as his to hunt the beaver, and to leave the print of their mocas- said that, but for the Ottawa, the small number of the attention was now diverted to another object of interest, sins in the country of the buffalo?-What says the Ot-warriors of the Saganaw must have been cut off; and that pale face was swifter than any runner among the tawa chief?" his heart is big with kindness to the Ottawa for what he red skins, and for his fleetness he deserved to live to be "The Ottawa chief is a great warrior," returned the did. But if the great chief meant to be friendly, why a great hunter in the Canadas; but fear broke his heart other, haughtily; and again repudiating, in the indomi- did he declare war after smoking the pipe of peace with fear of the friend of the Ottawa chief. The red skins tableness of his pride, the very views that a more artful the Saganaw? Why did he destroy the wigwams of saw him fall at the feet of the Saganaw without life, policy had first led him to avow. "He has already said the settlers, and carry off the scalps even of their weak and they saw the young warriors bear him off in their that, within a single moon, nine of the strong holds of women and children? All this has the Ottawa done; arms. Is not the Ottawa right ?" The Indian paused, the Saganaw have fallen into his hands, and that the and yet he says that he wished to be friendly with my threw his eye rapidly along the room, and then, fixing it scalps of the white men fill the tents of his warriors. If young men. But the Saganaw is not a fool. He knows on the governor, seemed to wait with deep but suppressthe red skins wish for peace, it is because they are sick the Ottawa chief had no will of his own. On the right ed interest for his reply. with spilling the blood of their enemies. Does my hand of the Ottawa sits the great chief of the Delawares, "Peace to the bones of a brave warrior!" seriously father hear?" and on his left the great chief of the Shawanees. They and evasively returned the governor : the pale face is "The Ottawa has been cunning, like the fox," have long been the sworn enemies of the Saganaw; and no longer in the land of the Canadas, and the young calmly returned the governor. "He went with deceit they came from the rivers that run near the salt lake to warriors of the Saganaw are sorry for his loss; but what upon his lips, and said to the great chiefs of the strong stir up the red skins of the Detroit to war. They whis- would the Ottawa say of the bridge? and what has the holds of the Saganaw,- You have no more forts upon pered wicked words in the ear of the Ottawa chief, and pale warrior, the friend of the Ottawa, to do with it?" the lakes; they have all fallen before the red skins: they he determined to take up the bloody hatchet. This is a A gleam of satisfaction pervaded the countenance of gave themselves into our hands; and we spared their shame to a great warrior. The Ottawa was a king the Indian, as he eagerly bent his ear to receive the aslives, and sent them down to the great towns near the over all the tribes in the country of the fresh lakes, and surance that the fugitive was no more; but when allusalt lake.' But this was false: the chiefs of the Saga-yet he weakly took council like a woman from another." sion was again made to the strange warrior, his brow naw believing what was said to them, gave up their แ My father lies!" fiercely retorted the warrior, half became overcast, and he replied with mingled haughtistrong holds; but their lives were not spared, and the springing to his feet, and involuntarily putting his hand ness and anger,-" Does my father ask? He has dogs grass of the Canadas is yet moist with their blood. Does upon his tomahawk. "If the settlers of the Saganaw of spies among the settlers of the pale flag, but the tothe Ottawa hear?" have fallen," he resumed in a calmer tone, while he mahawk of the red skins will find them out, and they

There were few forms of courtesy observed by the warriors towards the English officers on entering the council room. Ponteac, who had collected all his native haughtiness into one proud expression of look and figure, strode in without taking the slightest notice even of the governor. The other chiefs imitated his example, and all took their seats upon the matting in the order prescribed by their rank among the tribes, and their experience in council. The Ottawa chief sat at the near extremity of the room, and immediately facing the governor. A profound silence was observed for some minutes after the Indians had seated themselves, during which they proceeded to fill their pipes. The handle of that of the Ot. tawa chief was decorated with numerous feathers fancifully disposed.

66

Amazement and stupefaction sat for a moment on the again sank upon his mat, "it is because they did not shall perish even as the Saganaw themselves. Two features of the Indians. The fact was as had been keep their faith with the red skins. When they came nights ago, when the warriors of the Ottawas were restated; and yet, so completely had the several forts been weak, and were not yet secure in their strong holds, turning from their scout upon the common, they heard cut off from all communication, it was deemed almost their tongues were smooth and full of soft words; but the voice of Onondato, the great wolf-dog of the friend impossible one could have received tidings of the fate of when they became strong under the protection of their of the Ottawa chief. The voice came from the bridge the other, unless conveyed through the Indians them- thunder, they no longer treated the red skins as their where the Saganaw killed his young warrior, and it selves. friends, and they laughed at them for letting them come called upon the red skins for assistance. My young "The spies of the Saganaw have been very quick to into their country. "But," he pursued, elevating his men gave their war cry, and ran like wild deer to de escape the vigilance of the red skins," at length replied voice, "the Ottawa is a great chief, and he will be re-stroy the enemics of their chief; but when they came the Ottawa; yet they have returned with a lie upon spected." Then adverting in bitterness to the influence the spies had fled, and the voice of Onondato was low their lips. I swear by the Great Spirit, that nine of the supposed to be exercised over him-"What my father has and weak as that of a new fawn; and when the war

riors came to the other end of the bridge, they found the across the Ottawa, betrayed, by their vehemence of ges-the sun has travelled so many times," replied Ponteac, pale chief lying across the road and covered over with ture, the action of some strong feeling upon their minds, holding up three fingers of his left hand. "Then will blood. They thought he was dead, and their cry was the precise nature of which could not be ascertained the Ottawa and the other chiefs bring their young warterrible; for the pale warrior is a great chief, and the from their speech at the opposite extremity of the room. riors and their women."

"And do the great chiefs of the Shawances, and the great chiefs of the Delawares, and the great chiefs of the other nations, ask for peace also?" demanded the governor. "If so, let them speak for themselves, and for their warriors."

fingers in imitation of the Indian, "the Saganaw will be ready to receive the chiefs in council, that they may smoke the pipe of peace, and bury the hatchet for ever What says the great chief of the Ottawas?”

Pon.

Ottawas love him; but when they looked again, they The Ottawa did not deign to join in their conversation, "It is too soon," was the reply; "the Saganaw must have saw that the blood was the blood of Onondato, whose but sat smoking his pipe in all the calm and forbidding time to collect their presents, that they may give them to throat the spies of the Saganaw had cut, that he might dignity of a proud Indian warrior conscious of his own the young warriors who are swiftest in the race, and the not hunt them and give them to the tomahawk of the importance. most active at the ball. The great chief of the Ottawas, red skins." "Docs the great chief of the Ottawas, then, seek for too, must let the settlers of the pale flag, who are the Frequent glances, expressive of their deep interest in peace in his heart at length?" resumed the governor; friends of the red skins, bring in food for the Saganaw, the announcement of this intelligence, passed between" or is he come to the strong hold of Detroit, as he went that a great feast may be given to the chiefs, and to the the governor and his officers. It was clear the party to the other strong holds, with deceit on his lips?" The warriors, and that the Saganaw may make peace with who had encountered the terrible warrior of the Fleur Indian slowly removed the pipe from his mouth, fixed the Ottawas and the other nations as becomes a great de lis were not spies (for none. were employed by the his keen eye searchingly on that of the questioner for people. In twice so many days," holding up three of his garrison), but their adventurous companions who had so nearly a minute, and then briefly and haughtily said, recently quitted them. This was put beyond all doubt" The Ottawa chief has spoken." by the night, the hour, and the not less important fact of the locality; for it was from the bridge described by the Indian, near which the Canadian had stated his canoe to "It is good," was the reply of the Indian, his eye be chained, they were to embark on their perilous and lighting up with deep and exulting expression. "The uncertain enterprise. The question of their own escape settlers of the pale flag shall bring food to the Saganaw. from danger in this unlooked for collision with so power. We will not trespass on the reader by a transcript of The Ottawa chief will send them, and he will desire his ful and ferocious an enemy, and of the fidelity of the the declarations of the inferior chiefs. Each in his turn young men not to prevent them. In so many days, Canadian, still remained involved in doubt, which it avowed motives similar to those of the Ottawa for wish- then," indicating with his fingers, "the great chiefs might be imprudent, if not dangerous, to seek to have ing the hatchet might be buried for ever, and that their will sit again in council with the Saganaw, and the Otta resolved by any direct remark on the subject to the keen young men should mingle once more in confidence, not wa chief will not be a fool to bring the pipe he does not and observant warrior. The governor reinoved this diffi- only with the English troops, but with the settlers, who want." culty by artfully observing," The great chief of the would again be brought into the country at the cessation With this asurance the conference terminated. Ottawas has said they were the spies of the Saganaw of hostilities. When cach had spoken, the Ottawa pass-teac raised his tall frame from the mat on which he had who killed the pale warrior. His young men has founded the pipe of ceremony, with which he was provided, to beer squatted, nodded condescendingly to the governor, them, then; or how could he know they were spics ?" the governor. The latter put it to his lips, and commenc-and strode haughtily into the square or area of the fort. "Is there a warrior among the Saganaw who dares to ed smoking. The Indians keenly, and half furtively, The other chiefs followed his example; and to Major show himself in the path of the red skins, unless he watched the act; and looks of deep intelligence, that es. Blackwater was again assigned the duty of accompany. come in strength and surrounded by his thunder?" was caped not the notice of the equally anxious and observant ing them without the works. The glance of the savages, the sneering demand. "But my father is wrong if he officers, passed among them. and that of Pontcac in particular, was less wary than at supposes the friend of the Ottawa is killed. No," he "The pipe of the great chief of the Ottawas smokes their entrance. Each seemed to embrace every object pursued fiercely, "the dogs of spies could not kill him; well," calmly remarked the governor; " but the Ottawa on which the eye could rest, as if to fix its position inde. they were afraid to face so terrible a warrior. They chief, in his hurry to come and ask for peace, has made libly in his memory. The young chief, who had been caine behind him in the dark, and they struck him on a mistake. The pipe and all its ornaments are red like so suddenly and opportunely checked while in the very the head like cowards and foxes as they were. The blood: it is the pipe of war, and not the pipe of peace. act of pealing forth his terrible war whoop, again looked warrior of the pale face, and the friend of the Ottawa The great chief of the Ottawas will be angry with him-up at the windows of the block-house, in quest of those chief, is sick, but not dead. He lies without motion in self; he has entered the strong hold of the Saganaw, and whom his savage instinct had already devoted in intenhis tent, and his voice cannot speak to his friend to tell sat in the council, without doing any good for his young tion to his tomahawk, but they were no longer there. him who were his enemies, that he may bring their men. The Ottawa must come again." Such was the silence that reigned every where, the fort scalps to hang up within his wigwam. But the great A deep but subdued expression of disappointment appeared to be tenanted only by the few men of the chief will soon be well, and his arm will be stronger passed over the features of the chiefs. They watched guard, who lingered near their stations, attentively than ever to spill the blood of the Saganaw as he has the countenances of the officers, to see whether the sub-watching the Indians, as they passed towards the gate. stitution of one pipe for the cther had been attributed, A very few minutes sufficed to bring the latter once "The talk of the Ottawa chief is strange," returned in their estimation, to accident or design. There was more in the midst of their warriors, whom, for a few the governor, emphatically and with dignity. "He says nothing, however, to indicate the slightest doubt of their moments, they harangued earnestly, when the whole he comes to smoke the pipe of peace with the Saganaw, sincerity. body again moved off in the direction of their encampand yet he talks of spilling their blood as if it was water My father is right," replied the Indian, with an ap-ment. from the lake. What does the Ottawa mean?" "Ugh!" pearance of embarrassment, which, whether natural or exclaimed the Indian, in his surprise. "My father is feigned, had nothing suspicious in it. "The great chief right, but the Ottawa and the Saganaw have not yet of the Ottawas has been foolish, like an old woman. smoked together. When they have, the hatchet will be The young chiefs of his tribe will laugh at him for this. The week that intervened between the visit of the buried for ever. Until then, they are still enemies." But the Ottowa chief will come again, and the other chiefs and the day appointed for their second meeting in During this long and important colloquy of the lead-chiefs with him, for, as my father sees, they all wish for council, was passed by the garrison in perfect freedon ing parties, the strictest silence had been preserved by peace; and that my father may know all the nations wish from alarm, although, as usual, in diligent watchfulness the remainder of the council. The inferior chiefs had for peace, as well as their head men, the warriors of the and preparations for casualties. In conformity with his continued deliberately puffing the smoke from their Ottawa, and of the Shawanee, and of the Delaware, shall promise, the Indian had despatched many of the Cana curled lips, as they sat cross-legged on their mats, and play at ball upon the common, to amuse his young men, dian settlers, with such provisions as the country ther nodding their heads at intervals in confirmation of the while the chiefs sit in council wth the chiefs of the afforded, to the governor, and these, happy to obtain the occasional appeal made by the rapid glance of the Ottawa, Saganaw. The red skins shall come naked, and with-gold of the troops in return for what they could conveniently and uttering their guttural "Ugh!" whenever any ob- out their rifles and their tomahawks; and even the spare, were not slow in availing themselves of the perservation of the parlant parties touched their feelings, or squaws of the warriors shall come upon the common, to mission. Dried bear's meat, venison, and Indian corn, called forth their surprise. The officers had been no show the Saganaw they may be without fear. Docs my composed the substance of these supplies, which were in less silent and attentive listeners, to a conversation on father hear ?" sufficient abundance to produce a six weeks' increase to

done before."

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CHAPTER V.

the issue of which hung so many dear and paramount "The Ottawa chief says well," returned the governor; the stock of the garrison. Hitherto they had been subinterests. A pause in the conference gave them an op- "but will the pale friend of the Ottawa come also to sisting, in a great degree, upon salt provisions; the food portunity of commenting in a low tone on the commu- take his seat in the council hall? The great chief has furtively supplied by the Canadians being necessarily, nication made, in the strong excitement of his pride, said the pale warrior has become the second chief among from their dread of detection, on so limited a scale, that by the Ottawa chief, in regard to the terrible war- the Ottawas; and that when he is dead, the pale warrior a very small portion of the troops had been enabled to rior of the Fleur de lis; who, it was evident, swayed the will lead the Ottawas, and take the first seat in the coun-profit by it. This, therefore, was an important and uncouncils of the Indians, and consequently exercised an cil. He, too, should smoke the pipe of peace with the expected benefit, derived from the falling in of the garriinfluence over the ultimate destinies of the English, Sagaraw, that they may know he is no longer their son with the professed views of the savages; and one which it was impossible to contemplate without alarm. enemy." which, perhaps, few officers would, like Colonel de Hal

It was evident to all, from whatsoever cause it might The Indian hesitated, uttering merely his quick ejacu- dimar, have possessed the forethought to have secured. arise, this man cherished a rancour towards certain in-latory "Ugh!" in expression of his surprise at so unex- But although it served to relieve the animal wants of the dividuals in the fort, inducing an anxiety in its reduction pected a requisition. The pale warrior, the friend of man, there was little to remove his moral inquietude. scarcely equalled by that entertained on the part of the the Ottawa, is very sick," he at length said; " but if Discouraged by the sanguinary character of the warfare Indians themselves. Beyond this, however, all was the Great Spirit should give him back his voice before in which they seemed doomed to be for ever engaged, and mystery and doubt; nor had any clue been given to en- the chiefs come again to the council, the pale face will harassed by constant watchings,-seldom taking off their able them to arrive even at a well founded apprehension come too. If my father does not see him then, he will clothes for weeks together, the men had gradually been of the motives which had given birth to the vindictive- know the friend of the Ottawa chief is very sick." losing their energy of spirit, in the contemplation of the ness of purpose, so universally ascribed to him even by The governor deemed it prudent not to press the ques- almost irremediable evils by which they were beset; and the savages themselves. tion too closely, lest in so doing he should excite suspicion, looked forward with sad and disheartening conviction to The chiefs also availed themselves of this pause in the and defeat his own object."When will the Ottawa and a fate, that all things tended to prove to them was una conversation of the principals, to sustain a low and ani- the other chiefs come again?" he asked; " and when voidable, however the period of its consummation might mated discussion. Those of the Shawanee and Delaware will their warriors play at ball upon the common, that be protracted. Among the officers, this dejection, al nations were especially earnest; and, as they spoke the Saganaw may see them and be amused?” "When though proceeding from a different cause, was no less

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