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diff --git a/1078-h/1078-h.htm b/1078-h/1078-h.htm new file mode 100644 index 0000000..fe9bc2e --- /dev/null +++ b/1078-h/1078-h.htm @@ -0,0 +1,13063 @@ +<?xml version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8"?> + +<!DOCTYPE html + PUBLIC "-//W3C//DTD XHTML 1.0 Strict//EN" + "http://www.w3.org/TR/xhtml1/DTD/xhtml1-strict.dtd" > + +<html xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml" lang="en"> + <head> + <title> + The Scouts of the Valley, by Joseph A. Altsheler + </title> + <style type="text/css" xml:space="preserve"> + + body { margin:5%; background:#faebd0; text-align:justify} + P { text-indent: 1em; margin-top: .25em; margin-bottom: .25em; } + H1,H2,H3,H4,H5,H6 { text-align: center; margin-left: 15%; margin-right: 15%; } + hr { width: 50%; text-align: center;} + .foot { margin-left: 20%; margin-right: 20%; text-align: justify; text-indent: -3em; font-size: 90%; } + blockquote {font-size: 97%; font-style: italic; margin-left: 10%; margin-right: 10%;} + .mynote {background-color: #DDE; color: #000; padding: .5em; margin-left: 10%; margin-right: 10%; font-family: sans-serif; font-size: 95%;} + .toc { margin-left: 10%; margin-bottom: .75em;} + .toc2 { margin-left: 20%;} + div.fig { display:block; margin:0 auto; text-align:center; } + div.middle { margin-left: 20%; margin-right: 20%; text-align: justify; } + .figleft {float: left; margin-left: 0%; margin-right: 1%;} + .figright {float: right; margin-right: 0%; margin-left: 1%;} + .pagenum {display:inline; font-size: 70%; font-style:normal; + margin: 0; padding: 0; position: absolute; right: 1%; + text-align: right;} + pre { font-style: italic; font-size: 90%; margin-left: 10%;} + +</style> + </head> + <body> +<div>*** START OF THE PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK 1078 ***</div> + <p> + <br /><br /> + </p> + <h1> + THE SCOUTS OF THE VALLEY + </h1> + <p> + <br /> + </p> + <h2> + by Joseph A. Altsheler + </h2> + <p> + <br /> <br /> + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + <br /> <br /> + </p> + <blockquote> + <p class="toc"> + <big><b>CONTENTS</b></big> + </p> + <p> + <br /> <a href="#link2HCH0001"> CHAPTER I. </a> THE LONE CANOE + <br /><br /> <a href="#link2HCH0002"> CHAPTER II. </a> THE + MYSTERIOUS HAND <br /><br /> <a href="#link2HCH0003"> CHAPTER III. </a> THE + HUT ON THE ISLET <br /><br /> <a href="#link2HCH0004"> CHAPTER IV. </a> THE + RED CHIEFS <br /><br /> <a href="#link2HCH0005"> CHAPTER V. </a> THE + IROQUOIS TOWN <br /><br /> <a href="#link2HCH0006"> CHAPTER VI. </a> THE + EVIL SPIRIT'S WORK <br /><br /> <a href="#link2HCH0007"> CHAPTER VII. </a> CATHARINE + MONTOUR <br /><br /> <a href="#link2HCH0008"> CHAPTER VIII. </a> A + CHANGE OF TENANTS <br /><br /> <a href="#link2HCH0009"> CHAPTER IX. </a> WYOMING + <br /><br /> <a href="#link2HCH0010"> CHAPTER X. </a> THE + BLOODY ROCK <br /><br /> <a href="#link2HCH0011"> CHAPTER XI. </a> THE + MELANCHOLY FLIGHT <br /><br /> <a href="#link2HCH0012"> CHAPTER XII. </a> THE + SHADES OF DEATH <br /><br /> <a href="#link2HCH0013"> CHAPTER XIII. </a> A + FOREST PAGE <br /><br /> <a href="#link2HCH0014"> CHAPTER XIV. </a> THE + PURSUIT ON THE RIVER <br /><br /> <a href="#link2HCH0015"> CHAPTER XV. + </a> "THE ALCOVE” <br /><br /> <a href="#link2HCH0016"> CHAPTER + XVI. </a> THE FIRST BLOW <br /><br /> <a href="#link2HCH0017"> + CHAPTER XVII. </a> THE DESERTED CABIN <br /><br /> <a + href="#link2HCH0018"> CHAPTER XVIII. </a> HENRY'S SLIDE <br /><br /> + <a href="#link2HCH0019"> CHAPTER XIX. </a> THE SAFE RETURN + <br /><br /> <a href="#link2HCH0020"> CHAPTER XX. </a> A GLOOMY + COUNCIL <br /><br /> <a href="#link2HCH0021"> CHAPTER XXI. </a> BATTLE + OF THE CHEMUNG <br /><br /> <a href="#link2HCH0022"> CHAPTER XXII. </a> LITTLE + BEARD'S TOWN <br /><br /> <a href="#link2HCH0023"> CHAPTER XXIII. </a> THE + FINAL FIGHT <br /><br /> <a href="#link2HCH0024"> CHAPTER XXIV. </a> DOWN + THE OHIO <br /><br /> + </p> + </blockquote> + <p> + <br /> <br /> + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + <br /> <br /> <a name="link2HCH0001" id="link2HCH0001"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <h2> + CHAPTER I. THE LONE CANOE + </h2> + <p> + A light canoe of bark, containing a single human figure, moved swiftly up + one of the twin streams that form the Ohio. The water, clear and deep, + coming through rocky soil, babbled gently at the edges, where it lapped + the land, but in the center the full current flowed steadily and without + noise. + </p> + <p> + The thin shadows of early dusk were falling, casting a pallid tint over + the world, a tint touched here and there with living fire from the sun, + which was gone, though leaving burning embers behind. One glowing shaft, + piercing straight through the heavy forest that clothed either bank, fell + directly upon the figure in the boat, as a hidden light illuminates a + great picture, while the rest is left in shadow. It was no common forest + runner who sat in the middle of the red beam. Yet a boy, in nothing but + years, he swung the great paddle with an ease and vigor that the strongest + man in the West might have envied. His rifle, with the stock carved + beautifully, and the long, slender blue barrel of the border, lay by his + side. He could bring the paddle into the boat, grasp the rifle, and carry + it to his shoulder with a single, continuous movement. + </p> + <p> + His most remarkable aspect, one that the casual observer even would have + noticed, was an extraordinary vitality. He created in the minds of those + who saw him a feeling that he lived intensely every moment of his life. + Born and-bred in the forest, he was essentially its child, a perfect + physical being, trained by the utmost hardship and danger, and with every + faculty, mental and physical, in complete coordination. It is only by a + singular combination of time and place, and only once in millions of + chances, that Nature produces such a being. + </p> + <p> + The canoe remained a few moments in the center of the red light, and its + occupant, with a slight swaying motion of the paddle, held it steady in + the current, while he listened. Every feature stood out in the glow, the + firm chin, the straight strong nose, the blue eyes, and the thick yellow + hair. The red blue, and yellow beads on his dress of beautifully tanned + deerskin flashed in the brilliant rays. He was the great picture of fact, + not of fancy, a human being animated by a living, dauntless soul. + </p> + <p> + He gave the paddle a single sweep and shot from the light into the shadow. + His canoe did not stop until it grazed the northern shore, where bushes + and overhanging boughs made a deep shadow. It would have taken a keen eye + now to have seen either the canoe or its occupant, and Henry Ware paddled + slowly and without noise in the darkest heart of the shadow. + </p> + <p> + The sunlight lingered a little longer in the center of the stream. Then + the red changed to pink. The pink, in its turn, faded, and the whole + surface of the river was somber gray, flowing between two lines of black + forest. + </p> + <p> + The coming of the darkness did not stop the boy. He swung a little farther + out into the stream, where the bushes and hanging boughs would not get in + his way, and continued his course with some increase of speed. + </p> + <p> + The great paddle swung swiftly through the water, and the length of stroke + was amazing, but the boy's breath did not come faster, and the muscles on + his arms and shoulders rippled as if it were the play of a child. Henry + was in waters unknown to him. He had nothing more than hearsay upon which + to rely, and he used all the wilderness caution that he had acquired + through nature and training. He called into use every faculty of his + perfect physical being. His trained eyes continually pierced the darkness. + At times, he stopped and listened with ears that could hear the footfall + of the rabbit, but neither eye nor ear brought report of anything unusual. + The river flowed with a soft, sighing sound. Now and then a wild creature + stirred in the forest, and once a deer came down to the margin to drink, + but this was the ordinary life of the woods, and he passed it by. + </p> + <p> + He went on, hour after hour. The river narrowed. The banks grew higher and + rockier, and the water, deep and silvery under the moon, flowed in a + somewhat swifter current. Henry gave a little stronger sweep to the + paddle, and the speed of the canoe was maintained. He still kept within + the shadow of the northern bank. + </p> + <p> + He noticed after a while that fleecy vapor was floating before the moon. + The night seemed to be darkening, and a rising wind came out of the + southwest. The touch of the air on, his face was damp. It was the token of + rain, and he felt that it would not be delayed long. + </p> + <p> + It was no part of his plan to be caught in a storm on the Monongahela. + Besides the discomfort, heavy rain and wind might sink his frail canoe, + and he looked for a refuge. The river was widening again, and the banks + sank down until they were but little above the water. Presently he saw a + place that he knew would be suitable, a stretch of thick bushes and weeds + growing into the very edge of the water, and extending a hundred yards or + more along the shore. + </p> + <p> + He pushed his canoe far into the undergrowth, and then stopped it in + shelter so close that, keen as his own eyes were, he could scarcely see + the main stream of the river. The water where he came to rest was not more + than a foot deep, but he remained in the canoe, half reclining and + wrapping closely around himself and his rifle a beautiful blanket woven of + the tightest fiber. + </p> + <p> + His position, with his head resting on the edge of the canoe and his + shoulder pressed against the side, was full of comfort to him, and he + awaited calmly whatever might come. Here and there were little spaces + among the leaves overhead, and through them he saw a moon, now almost + hidden by thick and rolling vapors, and a sky that had grown dark and + somber. The last timid star had ceased to twinkle, and the rising wind was + wet and cold. He was glad of the blanket, and, skilled forest runner that + he was, he never traveled without it. Henry remained perfectly still. The + light canoe did not move beneath his weight the fraction of an inch. His + upturned eyes saw the little cubes of sky that showed through the leaves + grow darker and darker. The bushes about him were now bending before the + wind, which blew steadily from the south, and presently drops of rain + began to fall lightly on the water. + </p> + <p> + The boy, alone in the midst of all that vast wilderness, surrounded by + danger in its most cruel forms, and with a black midnight sky above him, + felt neither fear nor awe. Being what nature and circumstance had made + him, he was conscious, instead, of a deep sense of peace and comfort. He + was at ease, in a nest for the night, and there was only the remotest + possibility that the prying eye of an enemy would see him. The leaves + directly over his head were so thick that they formed a canopy, and, as he + heard the drops fall upon them, it was like the rain on a roof, that + soothes the one beneath its shelter. + </p> + <p> + Distant lightning flared once or twice, and low thunder rolled along the + southern horizon, but both soon ceased, and then a rain, not hard, but + cold and persistent, began to fall, coming straight down. Henry saw that + it might last all night, but he merely eased himself a little in the + canoe, drew the edges of the blanket around his chin, and let his eyelids + droop. + </p> + <p> + The rain was now seeping through the leafy canopy of green, but he did not + care. It could not penetrate the close fiber of the blanket, and the fur + cap drawn far down on his head met the blanket. Only his face was + uncovered, and when a cold drop fell upon it, it was to him, hardened by + forest life, cool and pleasant to the touch. + </p> + <p> + Although the eyelids still drooped, he did not yet feel the tendency to + sleep. It was merely a deep, luxurious rest, with the body completely + relaxed, but with the senses alert. The wind ceased to blow, and the rain + came down straight with an even beat that was not unmusical. No other + sound was heard in the forest, as the ripple of the river at the edges was + merged into it. Henry began to feel the desire for sleep by and by, and, + laying the paddle across the boat in such a way that it sheltered his + face, he closed his eyes. In five minutes he would have been sleeping as + soundly as a man in a warm bed under a roof, but with a quick motion he + suddenly put the paddle aside and raised himself a little in the canoe, + while one hand slipped down under the folds of the blanket to the hammer + of his rifle. + </p> + <p> + His ear had told him in time that there was a new sound on the river. He + heard it faintly above the even beat of the rain, a soft sound, long and + sighing, but regular. He listened, and then he knew it. It was made by + oars, many of them swung in unison, keeping admirable time. + </p> + <p> + Henry did not yet feel fear, although it must be a long boat full of + Indian warriors, as it was not likely, that anybody else would be abroad + upon these waters at such a time. He made no attempt to move. Where he lay + it was black as the darkest cave, and his cool judgment told him that + there was no need of flight. + </p> + <p> + The regular rhythmic beat of the oars came nearer, and presently as he + looked through the covert of leaves the dusky outline of a great war canoe + came into view. It contained at least twenty warriors, of what tribe he + could not tell, but they were wet, and they looked cold and miserable. + Soon they were opposite him, and he saw the outline of every figure. Scalp + locks drooped in the rain, and he knew that the warriors, hardy as they + might be, were suffering. + </p> + <p> + Henry expected to see the long boat pass on, but it was turned toward a + shelving bank fifty or sixty yards below, and they beached it there. Then + all sprang out, drew it up on the land, and, after turning it over, + propped it up at an angle. When this was done they sat under it in a close + group, sheltered from the rain. They were using their great canoe as a + roof, after the habit of Shawnees and Wyandots. + </p> + <p> + The boy watched them for a long time through one of the little openings in + the bushes, and he believed that they would remain as they were all night, + but presently he saw a movement among them, and a little flash of light. + He understood it. They were trying to kindle a fire-with flint and steel, + under the shelter of the boat. He continued to watch them 'lazily and + without alarm. + </p> + <p> + Their fire, if they succeeded in making it, would cast no light upon him + in the dense covert, but they would be outlined against the flame, and he + could see them better, well enough, perhaps, to tell to what tribe they + belonged. + </p> + <p> + He watched under his lowered eyelids while the warriors, gathered in a + close group to make a shelter from stray puffs of wind, strove with flint + and steel. Sparks sprang up and went out, but Henry at last saw a little + blaze rise and cling to life. Then, fed with tinder and bark, it grew + under the roof made by the boat until it was ruddy and strong. The boat + was tilted farther back, and the fire, continuing to grow, crackled + cheerfully, while the flames leaped higher. + </p> + <p> + By a curious transfer of the senses, Henry, as he lay in the thick + blackness felt the influence of the fire, also. Its warmth was upon his + face, and it was pleasing to see the red and yellow light victorious + against the sodden background of the rain and dripping forest. The figures + of the warriors passed and repassed before the fire, and the boy in the + boat moved suddenly. His body was not shifted more than an inch, but his + surprise was great. + </p> + <p> + A warrior stood between him and the fire, outlined perfectly against the + red light. It was a splendid figure, young, much beyond the average + height, the erect and noble head crowned with the defiant scalplock, the + strong, slightly curved nose and the massive chin cut as clearly as if + they had been carved in copper. The man who had laid aside a wet blanket + was bare now to the waist, and Henry could see the powerful muscles play + on chest and shoulders as he moved. + </p> + <p> + The boy knew him. It was Timmendiquas, the great White Lightning of the + Wyandots, the youngest, but the boldest and ablest of all the Western + chiefs. Henry's pulses leaped a little at the sight of his old foe and + almost friend. As always, he felt admiration at the sight of the young + chief. It was not likely that he would ever behold such another + magnificent specimen of savage manhood. + </p> + <p> + The presence of Timmendiquas so far east was also full of significance. + The great fleet under Adam Colfax, and with Henry and his comrades in the + van, had reached Pittsburgh at last. Thence the arms, ammunition, and + other supplies were started on the overland journey for the American army, + but the five lingered before beginning the return to Kentucky. A rumor + came that the Indian alliance was spreading along the entire frontier, + both west and north. It was said that Timmendiquas, stung to fiery energy + by his defeats, was coming east to form a league with the Iroquois, the + famous Six Nations. These warlike tribes were friendly with the Wyandots, + and the league would be a formidable danger to the Colonies, the full + strength of which was absorbed already in the great war. + </p> + <p> + But the report was a new call of battle to Henry, Shif'less Sol, and the + others. The return to Kentucky was postponed. They could be of greater + service here, and they plunged into the great woods to the north and, east + to see what might be stirring among the warriors. + </p> + <p> + Now Henry, as he looked at Timmendiquas, knew that report had told the + truth. The great chief would not be on the fringe of the Iroquois country, + if he did not have such a plan, and he had the energy and ability to carry + it through. Henry shuddered at the thought of the tomahawk flashing along + every mile of a frontier so vast, and defended so thinly. He was glad in + every fiber that he and his comrades had remained to hang upon the Indian + hordes, and be heralds of their marches. In the forest a warning usually + meant the saving of life. + </p> + <p> + The rain ceased after a while, although water dripped from the trees + everywhere. But the big fire made an area of dry earth about it, and the + warriors replaced the long boat in the water. Then all but four or five of + them lay beside the coals and went to sleep. Timmendiquas was one of those + who remained awake, and Henry saw that he was in deep thought. He walked + back and forth much like a white man, and now and then he folded his hands + behind his back, looking toward the earth, but not seeing it. Henry could + guess what was in his mind. He would draw forth the full power of the Six + Nations, league them with the Indians of the great valley, and hurl them + all in one mass upon the frontier. He was planning now the means to the + end. + </p> + <p> + The chief, in his little walks back and forth, came close to the edge of + the bushes in which Henry lay, It was not at all probable that he would + conclude to search among them, but some accident, a chance, might happen, + and Henry began to feel a little alarm. Certainly, the coming of the day + would make his refuge insecure, and he resolved to slip away while it was + yet light. + </p> + <p> + The boy rose a little in the boat, slowly and with the utmost caution, + because the slightest sound out of the common might arouse Timmendiquas to + the knowledge of a hostile presence. The canoe must make no plash in the + water. Gradually he unwrapped the blanket and tied it in a folded square + at his back. Then he took thought a few moments. The forest was so silent + now that he did not believe he could push the canoe through the bushes + without being heard. He would leave it there for use another day and go on + foot through the woods to his comrades. + </p> + <p> + Slowly he put one foot down the side until it rested on the bottom, and + then he remained still. The chief had paused in his restless walk back and + forth. Could it be possible that he had heard so slight a sound as that of + a human foot sinking softly into the water? Henry waited with his rifle + ready. If necessary he would fire, and then dart away among the bushes. + </p> + <p> + Five or six intense moments passed, and the chief resumed his restless + pacing. If he had heard, he had passed it by as nothing, and Henry raised + the other foot out of the canoe. He was as delicate in his movement as a + surgeon mending the human eye, and he had full cause, as not eye alone, + but life as well, depended upon his success. Both feet now rested upon the + muddy bottom, and he stood there clear of the boat. + </p> + <p> + The chief did not stop again, and as the fire had burned higher, his + features were disclosed more plainly in his restless walk back and forth + before the flames. Henry took a final look at the lofty features, + contracted now into a frown, then began to wade among the bushes, pushing + his way softly. This was the most delicate and difficult task of all. The + water must not be allowed to plash around him nor the bushes to rustle as + he passed. Forward he went a yard, then two, five, ten, and his feet were + about to rest upon solid earth, when a stick submerged in the mud broke + under his moccasin with a snap singularly loud in the silence of the + night. + </p> + <p> + Henry sprang at once upon dry land, whence he cast back a single swift + glance. He saw the chief standing rigid and gazing in the direction from + which the sound had come. Other warriors were just behind him, following + his look, aware that there was an unexpected presence in the forest, and + resolved to know its nature. + </p> + <p> + Henry ran northward. So confident was he in his powers and the protecting + darkness of the night that he sent back a sharp cry, piercing and defiant, + a cry of a quality that could come only from a white throat. The warriors + would know it, and he intended for them to know it. Then, holding his + rifle almost parallel with his body, he darted swiftly away through the + black spaces of the forest. But an answering cry came to his, the Indian + yell taking up his challenge, and saying that the night would not check + pursuit. + </p> + <p> + Henry maintained his swift pace for a long time, choosing the more open + places that he might make no noise among the bushes and leaves. Now and + then water dripped in his face, and his moccasins were wet from the long + grass, but his body was warm and dry, and he felt little weariness. The + clouds were now all gone, and the stars sprang out, dancing in a sky of + dusky blue. Trained eyes could see far in the forest despite the night, + and Henry felt that he must be wary. He recalled the skill and tenacity of + Timmendiquas. A fugitive could scarcely be trailed in the darkness, but + the great chief would spread out his forces like a fan and follow. + </p> + <p> + He had been running perhaps three hours when he concluded to stop in a + thicket, where he lay down on the damp grass, and rested with his head + under his arm. + </p> + <p> + His breath had been coming a little faster, but his heart now resumed its + regular beat. Then he heard a soft sound, that of footsteps. He thought at + first that some wild animal was prowling near, but second thought + convinced him that human beings had come. Gazing through the thicket, he + saw an Indian warrior walking among the trees, looking searchingly about + him as if he were a scout. Another, coming from a different direction, + approached him, and Henry felt sure that they were of the party of + Timmendiquas. They had followed him in some manner, perhaps by chance, and + it behooved Mm now to lie close. + </p> + <p> + A third warrior joined them and they began to examine the ground. Henry + realized that it was much lighter. Keen eyes under such a starry sky could + see much, and they might strike his trail. The fear quickly became fact. + One of the warriors, uttering a short cry, raised his head and beckoned to + the others. He had seen broken twigs or trampled grass, and Henry, knowing + that it was no time to hesitate, sprang from his covert. Two of the + warriors caught a glimpse of his dusky figure and fired, the bullets + cutting the leaves close to his head, but Henry ran so fast that he was + lost to view in an instant. + </p> + <p> + The boy was conscious that his position contained many elements of danger. + He was about to have another example of the tenacity and resource of the + great young chief of the Wyandots, and he felt a certain anger. He, did + not wish to be disturbed in his plans, he wished to rejoin his comrades + and move farther east toward the chosen lands of the Six Nations; instead, + he must spend precious moments running for his life. + </p> + <p> + Henry did not now flee toward the camp of his friends. He was too wise, + too unselfish, to bring a horde down upon them, and he curved away in a + course that would take him to the south of them. He glanced up and saw + that the heavens were lightening yet more. A thin gray color like a mist + was appearing in the east. It was the herald of day, and now the Indians + would be able to find his trail. But Henry was not afraid. His anger over + the loss of time quickly passed, and he ran swiftly on, the fall of his + moccasins making scarcely any noise as he passed. + </p> + <p> + It was no unusual incident. Thousands of such pursuits occurred in the + border life of our country, and were lost to the chronicler. For + generations they were almost a part of the daily life of the frontier, but + the present, while not out of the common in itself, had, uncommon phases. + It was the most splendid type of white life in all the wilderness that + fled, and the finest type of red life that followed. + </p> + <p> + It was impossible for Henry to feel anger or hate toward Timmendiquas. In + his place he would have done what he was doing. It was hard to give up + these great woods and beautiful lakes and rivers, and the wild life that + wild men lived and loved. There was so much chivalry in the boy's nature + that he could think of all these things while he fled to escape the + tomahawk or the stake. + </p> + <p> + Up came the sun. The gray light turned to silver, and then to red and + blazing gold. A long, swelling note, the triumphant cry of the pursuing + warriors, rose behind him. Henry turned his head for one look. He saw a + group of them poised for a moment on the crest of a low hill and outlined + against the broad flame in the east. He saw their scalp locks, the rifles + in their hands, and their bare chests shining bronze in the glow. Once + more he sent back his defiant cry, now in answer to theirs, and then, + calling upon his reserves of strength and endurance, fled with a speed + that none of the warriors had ever seen surpassed. + </p> + <p> + Henry's flight lasted all that day, and he used every device to evade the + pursuit, swinging by vines, walking along fallen logs, and wading in + brooks. He did not see the warriors again, but instinct warned him that + they were yet following. At long intervals he would rest for a quarter of + an hour or so among the bushes, and at noon he ate a little of the venison + that he always carried. Three hours later he came to the river again, and + swimming it he turned on his course, but kept to the southern side. When + the twilight was falling once more he sat still in dense covert for a long + time. He neither saw nor heard a sign of human presence, and he was sure + now that the pursuit had failed. Without an effort he dismissed it from + his mind, ate a little more of the venison, and made his bed for the + night. + </p> + <p> + The whole day had been bright, with a light wind blowing, and the forest + was dry once more. As far as Henry could see it circled away on every + side, a solid dark green, the leaves of oak and beech, maple and elm + making a soft, sighing sound as they waved gently in the wind. It told + Henry of nothing but peace. He had eluded the pursuit, hence it was no + more. This was a great, friendly forest, ready to shelter him, to soothe + him, and to receive him into its arms for peaceful sleep. + </p> + <p> + He found a place among thick trees where the leaves of last year lay deep + upon the ground. He drew up enough of them for a soft bed, because now and + for the moment he was a forest sybarite. He was wise enough to take his + ease when he found it, knowing that it would pay his body to relax. + </p> + <p> + He lay down upon the leaves, placed the rifle by his side, and spread the + blanket over himself and the weapon. The twilight was gone, and the night, + dark and without stars, as he wished to see it, rolled up, fold after + fold, covering and hiding everything. He looked a little while at a + breadth of inky sky showing through the leaves, and then, free from + trouble or fear, he fell asleep. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0002" id="link2HCH0002"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER II. THE MYSTERIOUS HAND + </h2> + <p> + Henry slept until a rosy light, filtering through the leaves, fell upon + his face. Then he sprang up, folded the blanket once more upon his back, + and looked about him. Nothing had come in the night to disturb him, no + enemy was near, and the morning sun was bright and beautiful. The venison + was exhausted, but he bathed his face in the brook and resumed his + journey, traveling with a long, swift stride that carried him at great + speed. + </p> + <p> + The boy was making for a definite point, one that he knew well, although + nearly all the rest of this wilderness was strange to him. The country + here was rougher than it usually is in the great valley to the west, and + as he advanced it became yet more broken, range after range of steep, + stony hills, with fertile but narrow little valleys between. He went on + without hesitation for at least two hours, and then stopping under a great + oak he uttered a long, whining cry, much like the howl of a wolf. + </p> + <p> + It was not a loud note, but it was singularly penetrating, carrying far + through the forest. A sound like an echo came back, but Henry knew that + instead of an echo it was a reply to his own signal. Then he advanced + boldly and swiftly and came to the edge of a snug little valley set deep + among rocks and trees like a bowl. He stopped behind the great trunk of a + beech, and looked into the valley with a smile of approval. + </p> + <p> + Four human figures were seated around a fire of smoldering coals that gave + forth no smoke. They appeared to be absorbed in some very pleasant task, + and a faint odor that came to Henry's nostrils filled him with agreeable + anticipations. He stepped forward boldly and called: + </p> + <p> + “Jim, save that piece for me!” + </p> + <p> + Long Jim Hart halted in mid-air the large slice of venison that he had + toasted on a stick. Paul Cotter sprang joyfully to his feet, Silent Tom + Ross merely looked up, but Shif'less Sol said: + </p> + <p> + “Thought Henry would be here in time for breakfast.” + </p> + <p> + Henry walked down in the valley, and the shiftless one regarded him + keenly. + </p> + <p> + “I should judge, Henry Ware, that you've been hevin' a foot race,” he + drawled. + </p> + <p> + “And why do you think that?” asked Henry. + </p> + <p> + “I kin see where the briars hev been rakin' across your leggins. Reckon + that wouldn't happen, 'less you was in a pow'ful hurry.” + </p> + <p> + “You're right,” said Henry. “Now, Jim, you've been holding that venison in + the air long enough. Give it to me, and after I've eaten it I'll tell you + all that I've been doing, and all that's been done to me.” + </p> + <p> + Long Jim handed him the slice. Henry took a comfortable seat in the circle + before the coals, and ate with all the appetite of a powerful human + creature whose food had been more than scanty for at least two days. + </p> + <p> + “Take another piece,” said Long Jim, observing him with approval. “Take + two pieces, take three, take the whole deer. I always like to see a hungry + man eat. It gives him sech satisfaction that I git a kind uv taste uv it + myself.” + </p> + <p> + Henry did not offer a word 'of explanation until his breakfast was over. + Then lie leaned back, sighing twice with deep content, and said: + </p> + <p> + “Boys, I've got a lot to tell.” + </p> + <p> + Shif'less Sol moved into an easier position on the leaves. + </p> + <p> + “I guess it has somethin' to do with them scratches on your leggins.” + </p> + <p> + “It has,” continued Henry with emphasis, “and I want to say to you boys + that I've seen Timmendiquas, the great White Lightning of the Wyandots.” + </p> + <p> + “Timmendiquas!” exclaimed the others together. + </p> + <p> + “No less a man than he,” resumed Henry. “I've looked upon his very face, + I've seen him in camp with warriors, and I've had the honor of being + pursued by him and his men more hours than I can tell. That's why you see + those briar scratches on my leggins, Sol.” + </p> + <p> + “Then we cannot doubt that he is here to stir the Six Nations to continued + war,” said Paul Cotter, “and he will succeed. He is a mighty chief, and + his fire and eloquence will make them take up the hatchet. I'm glad that + we've come. We delayed a league once between the Shawnees and the Miamis; + I don't think we can stop this one, but we may get some people out of the + way before the blow falls.” + </p> + <p> + “Who are these Six Nations, whose name sounds so pow'ful big up here?” + asked Long Jim. + </p> + <p> + “Their name is as big as it sounds,” replied Henry. “They are the + Onondagas, the Mohawks, Oneidas, Senecas, Cayugas, and Tuscaroras. They + used to be the Five Nations, but the Tuscaroras came up from the south and + fought against them so bravely that they were adopted into the league, as + a new and friendly tribe. The Onondagas, so I've heard, formed the league + a long, long time ago, and their head chief is the grand sachem or high + priest of them all, but the head chief of the Mohawks is the leading war + chief.” + </p> + <p> + “I've heard,” said Paul, “that the Wyandots are kinsmen of all these + tribes, and on that account they will listen with all the more + friendliness to Timmendiquas.” + </p> + <p> + “Seems to me,” said Tom Ross, “that we've got a most tre-men-je-ous big + job ahead.” + </p> + <p> + “Then,” said Henry, “we must make a most tremendous big effort.” + </p> + <p> + “That's so,” agreed all. + </p> + <p> + After that they spoke little. The last coals were covered up, and the + remainder of the food was put in their pouches. Then they sat on the + leaves, and every one meditated until such time as he might have something + worth saying. Henry's thoughts traveled on a wide course, but they always + came back to one point. They had heard much at Pittsburgh of a famous + Mohawk chief called Thayendanegea, but most often known to the Americans + as Brant. He was young, able, and filled with intense animosity against + the white people, who encroached, every year, more and more upon the + Indian hunting grounds. His was a soul full kin to that of Timmendiquas, + and if the two met it meant a great council and a greater endeavor for the + undoing of the white man. What more likely than that they intended to + meet? + </p> + <p> + “All of you have heard of Thayendanegea, the Mohawk?” said Henry. + </p> + <p> + They nodded. + </p> + <p> + “It's my opinion that Timmendiquas is on the way to meet him. I remember + hearing a hunter say at Pittsburgh that about a hundred miles to the east + of this point was a Long House or Council House of the Six Nations. + Timmendiquas is sure to go there, and we must go, too. We must find out + where they intend to strike. What do you say?” + </p> + <p> + “We go there!” exclaimed four voices together. + </p> + <p> + Seldom has a council of war been followed by action so promptly. + </p> + <p> + As Henry spoke the last word he rose, and the others rose with him. Saying + no more, he led toward the east, and the others followed him, also saying + no more. Separately every one of them was strong, brave, and resourceful, + but when the five were together they felt that they had the skill and + strength of twenty. The long rest at Pittsburgh had restored them after + the dangers and hardship of their great voyage from New Orleans. + </p> + <p> + They carried in horn and pouch ample supplies of powder and bullet, and + they did not fear any task. + </p> + <p> + Their journey continued through hilly country, clothed in heavy forest, + but often without undergrowth. They avoided the open spaces, preferring to + be seen of men, who were sure to be red men, as little as possible. Their + caution was well taken. They saw Indian signs, once a feather that had + fallen from a scalp lock, once footprints, and once the bone of a deer + recently thrown away by him who had eaten the meat from it. The country + seemed to be as wild as that of Kentucky. Small settlements, so they had + heard, were scattered at great distances through the forest, but they saw + none. There was no cabin smoke, no trail of the plow, just the woods and + the hills and the clear streams. Buffalo had never reached this region, + but deer were abundant, and they risked a shot to replenish their + supplies. + </p> + <p> + They camped the second night of their march on a little peninsula at the + confluence of two creeks, with the deep woods everywhere. Henry judged + that they were well within the western range of the Six Nations, and they + cooked their deer meat over a smothered fire, nothing more than a few + coals among the leaves. When supper was over they arranged soft places for + themselves and their blankets, all except Long Jim, whose turn it was to + scout among the woods for a possible foe. + </p> + <p> + “Don't be gone long, Jim,” said Henry as he composed himself in a + comfortable position. “A circle of a half mile about us will do.” + </p> + <p> + “I'll not be gone more'n an hour,” said Long Jim, picking up his rifle + confidently, and flitting away among the woods. + </p> + <p> + “Not likely he'll see anything,” said Shif'less Sol, “but I'd shorely like + to know what White Lightning is about. He must be terrible stirred up by + them beatin's he got down on the Ohio, an' they say that Mohawk, + Thayendanegea is a whoppin' big chief, too. They'll shorely make a heap of + trouble.” + </p> + <p> + “But both of them are far from here just now,” said Henry, “and we won't + bother about either.” + </p> + <p> + He was lying on some leaves at the foot of a tree with his arm under his + head and his blanket over his body. He had a remarkable capacity for + dismissing trouble or apprehension, and just then he was enjoying great + physical and mental peace. He looked through half closed eyes at his + comrades, who also were enjoying repose, and his fancy could reproduce + Long Jim in the forest, slipping from tree to tree and bush to bush, and + finding no menace. + </p> + <p> + “Feels good, doesn't it, Henry?” said the shiftless one. “I like a clean, + bold country like this. No more plowin' around in swamps for me.” + </p> + <p> + “Yes,” said Henry sleepily, “it's a good country.” + </p> + <p> + The hour slipped smoothly by, and Paul said: + </p> + <p> + “Time for Long Jim to be back.” + </p> + <p> + “Jim don't do things by halves,” said the shiftless one. “Guess he's + beatin' up every squar' inch o' the bushes. He'll be here soon.” + </p> + <p> + A quarter of an hour passed, and Long Jim did not return; a half hour, and + no sign of him. Henry cast off the blanket and stood up. The night was not + very dark and he could see some distance, but he did not see their + comrade. + </p> + <p> + “I wonder why he's so slow,” he said with a faint trace of anxiety. + </p> + <p> + “He'll be 'long directly,” said Tom Ross with confidence. + </p> + <p> + Another quarter of an hour, and no Long Jim. Henry sent forth the low + penetrating cry of the wolf that they used so often as a signal. + </p> + <p> + “He cannot fail to hear that,” he said, “and he'll answer.” + </p> + <p> + No answer came. The four looked at one another in alarm. Long Jim had been + gone nearly two hours, and he was long overdue. His failure to reply to + the signal indicated either that something ominous had happened or that—he + had gone much farther than they meant for him to go. + </p> + <p> + The others had risen to their feet, also, and they stood a little while in + silence. + </p> + <p> + “What do you think it means?” asked Paul. + </p> + <p> + “It must be all right,” said Shif'less Sol. “Mebbe Jim has lost the camp.” + </p> + <p> + Henry shook his head. + </p> + <p> + “It isn't that,” he said. “Jim is too good a woodsman for such a mistake. + I don't want to look on the black side, boys, but I think something has + happened to Jim.” + </p> + <p> + “Suppose you an' me go an' look for him,” said Shif'less Sol, “while Paul + and Tom stay here an' keep house.” + </p> + <p> + “We'd better do it,” said Henry. “Come, Sol.” + </p> + <p> + The two, rifles in the hollows of their arms, disappeared in the darkness, + while Tom and Paul withdrew into the deepest shadow of the trees and + waited. + </p> + <p> + Henry and the shiftless one pursued an anxious quest, going about the camp + in a great circle and then in another yet greater. They did not find Jim, + and the dusk was so great that they saw no evidences of his trail. Long + Jim had disappeared as completely as if he had left the earth for another + planet. When they felt that they must abandon the search for the time, + Henry and Shif'less Sol looked at each other in a dismay that the dusk + could not hide. + </p> + <p> + “Mebbe be saw some kind uv a sign, an' has followed it,” said the + shiftless one hopefully. “If anything looked mysterious an' troublesome, + Jim would want to hunt it down.” + </p> + <p> + “I hope so,” said Henry, “but we've got to go back to the camp now and + report failure. Perhaps he'll show up to-morrow, but I don't like it, Sol, + I don't like it!” + </p> + <p> + “No more do I,” said Shif'less Sol. “'Tain't like Jim not to come back, ef + he could. Mebbe he'll drop in afore day, anyhow.” + </p> + <p> + They returned to the camp, and two inquiring figures rose up out of the + darkness. + </p> + <p> + “You ain't seen him?” said Tom, noting that but two figures had returned. + </p> + <p> + “Not a trace,” replied Henry. “It's a singular thing.” + </p> + <p> + The four talked together a little while, and they were far from cheerful. + Then three sought sleep, while Henry stayed on watch, sitting with his + back against a tree and his rifle on his knees. All the peace and content + that he had felt earlier in the evening were gone. He was oppressed by a + sense of danger, mysterious and powerful. It did not seem possible that + Long Jim could have gone away in such a noiseless manner, leaving no trace + behind. But it was true. + </p> + <p> + He watched with both ear and eye as much for Long Jim as for an enemy. He + was still hopeful that he would see the long, thin figure coming among the + bushes, and then hear the old pleasant drawl. But he did not see the + figure, nor did he hear the drawl. + </p> + <p> + Time passed with the usual slow step when one watches. Paul, Sol, and Tom + were asleep, but Henry was never wider awake in his life. He tried to put + away the feeling of mystery and danger. He assured himself that Long Jim + would soon come, delayed by some trail that he had sought to solve. + Nothing could have happened to a man so brave and skillful. His nerves + must be growing weak when he allowed himself to be troubled so much by a + delayed return. + </p> + <p> + But the new hours came, one by one, and Long Jim came with none of them. + The night remained fairly light, with a good moon, but the light that it + threw over the forest was gray and uncanny. Henry's feeling of mystery and + danger deepened. Once he thought he heard a rustling in the thicket and, + finger on the trigger of his rifle, he stole among the bushes to discover + what caused it. He found nothing and, returning to his lonely watch, saw + that Paul, Sol, and Tom were still sleeping soundly. But Henry was annoyed + greatly by the noise, and yet more by his failure to trace its origin. + After an hour's watching he looked a second time. The result was once more + in vain, and he resumed his seat upon the leaves, with his back reclining + against an oak. Here, despite the fact that the night was growing darker, + nothing within range of a rifle shot could escape his eyes. + </p> + <p> + Nothing stirred. The noise did not come a second time from the thicket. + The very silence was oppressive. There was no wind, not even a stray puff, + and the bushes never rustled. Henry longed for a noise of some kind to + break that terrible, oppressive silence. What he really wished to hear was + the soft crunch of Long Jim's moccasins on the grass and leaves. + </p> + <p> + The night passed, the day came, and Henry awakened his comrades. Long Jim + was still missing and their alarm was justified. Whatever trail lie might + have struck, he would have returned in the night unless something had + happened to him. Henry had vague theories, but nothing definite, and he + kept them to himself. Yet they must make a change in their plans. To go on + and leave Long Jim to whatever fate might be his was unthinkable. No task + could interfere with the duty of the five to one another. + </p> + <p> + “We are in one of the most dangerous of all the Indian countries,” said + Henry. “We are on the fringe of the region over which the Six Nations + roam, and we know that Timmendiquas and a band of the Wyandots are here + also. Perhaps Miamis and Shawnees have come, too.” + </p> + <p> + “We've got to find Long Jim,” said Silent Tom briefly. + </p> + <p> + They went about their task in five minutes. Breakfast consisted of cold + venison and a drink from a brook. Then they began to search the forest. + They felt sure that such woodsmen as they, with the daylight to help them, + would find some trace of Long Jim, but they saw none at all, although they + constantly widened their circle, and again tried all their signals. Half + the forenoon passed in the vain search, and then they held a council. + </p> + <p> + “I think we'd better scatter,” said Shif'less Sol, “an' meet here again + when the sun marks noon.” + </p> + <p> + It was agreed, and they took careful note of the place, a little hill + crowned with a thick cluster of black oaks, a landmark easy to remember. + Henry turned toward the south, and the forest was so dense that in two + minutes all his comrades were lost to sight. He went several miles, and + his search was most rigid. He was amazed to find that the sense of mystery + and danger that he attributed to the darkness of the night did not + disappear wholly in the bright daylight. His spirit, usually so + optimistic, was oppressed by it, and he had no belief that they would find + Long Jim. + </p> + <p> + At the set time he returned to the little hill crowned with the black + oaks, and as he approached it from one side he saw Shif'less Sol coming + from another. The shiftless one walked despondently. His gait was loose + and shambling-a rare thing with him, and Henry knew that he, too, had + failed. He realized now that he had not expected anything else. Shif'less + Sol shook his head, sat down on a root and said nothing. Henry sat down, + also, and the two exchanged a look of discouragement. + </p> + <p> + “The others will be here directly,” said Henry, “and perhaps Long Jim will + be with one of them.” + </p> + <p> + But in his heart he knew that it would not be so, and the shiftless one + knew that he had no confidence in his own words. + </p> + <p> + “If not,” said Henry, resolved to see the better side, “we'll stay anyhow + until we find him. We can't spare good old Long Jim.” + </p> + <p> + Shif'less Sol did not reply, nor did Henry speak again, until lie saw the + bushes moving slightly three or four hundred yards away. + </p> + <p> + “There comes Tom,” he said, after a single comprehensive glance, “and he's + alone.” + </p> + <p> + Tom Ross was also a dejected figure. He looked at the two on the hill, + and, seeing that the man for whom they were searching was not with them, + became more dejected than before. + </p> + <p> + “Paul's our last chance,” he said, as he joined them. “He's gen'rally a + lucky boy, an' mebbe it will be so with him to-day.” + </p> + <p> + “I hope so,” said Henry fervently. “He ought to be along in a few + minutes.” + </p> + <p> + They waited patiently, although they really had no belief that Paul would + bring in the missing man, but Paul was late. The noon hour was well past. + Henry took a glance at the sun. Noon was gone at least a half hour, and he + stirred uneasily. + </p> + <p> + “Paul couldn't get lost in broad daylight,” he said. + </p> + <p> + “No,” said Shif'less Sol, “he couldn't get lost!” + </p> + <p> + Henry noticed his emphasis on the word “lost,” and a sudden fear sprang up + in his heart. Some power had taken away Long Jim; could the same power + have seized Paul? It was a premonition, and he paled under his brown, + turning away lest the others see his face. All three now examined the + whole circle of the horizon for a sight of moving bushes that would tell + of the boy's coming. + </p> + <p> + The forest told nothing. The sun blazed brightly over everything, and + Paul, like Long Jim, did not come. He was an hour past due, and the three, + oppressed already by Long jim's disappearance, were convinced that he + would not return. But they gave him a half hour longer. Then Henry said: + </p> + <p> + “We must hunt for him, but we must not separate. Whatever happens we three + must stay together.” + </p> + <p> + “I'm not hankerin' to roam 'roun jest now all by myself,” said the + shiftless one, with an uneasy laugh. + </p> + <p> + The three hunted all that afternoon for Paul. Once they saw trace of + footsteps, apparently his, in some soft earth, but they were quickly, lost + on hard ground, and after that there was nothing. They stopped shortly + before sunset at the edge of a narrow but deep creek. + </p> + <p> + “What do you think of it, Henry?” asked Shif'less Sol. + </p> + <p> + “I don't know what to think,” replied the youth, “but it seems to me that + whatever took away Jim has taken away Paul, also.” + </p> + <p> + “Looks like it,” said Sol, “an' I guess it follers that we're in the same + kind o' danger.” + </p> + <p> + “We three of us could put up a good fight,” said Henry, “and I propose + that we don't go back to that camp, but spend the night here.” + </p> + <p> + “Yes, an' watch good,” said Tom Ross. + </p> + <p> + Their new camp was made quickly in silence, merely the grass under the low + boughs of a tree. Their supper was a little venison, and then they watched + the coming of the darkness. It was a heavy hour for the three. Long Jim + was gone, and then Paul-Paul, the youngest, and, in a way, the pet of the + little band. + </p> + <p> + “Ef we could only know how it happened,” whispered Shif'less Sol, “then we + might rise up an' fight the danger an' git Paul an' Jim back. But you + can't shoot at somethin' you don't see or hear. In all them fights o' + ours, on the Ohio an' Mississippi we knowed what wuz ag'inst us, but here + we don't know nothin'.” + </p> + <p> + “It is true, Sol,” sighed Henry. “We were making such big plans, too, and + before we can even start our force is cut nearly in half. To-morrow we'll + begin the hunt again. We'll never desert Paul and Jim, so long as we don't + know they're dead.” + </p> + <p> + “It's my watch,” said Tom. “You two sleep. We've got to keep our + strength.” + </p> + <p> + Henry and the shiftless one acquiesced, and seeking the softest spots + under the tree sat down. Tom Ross took his place about ten feet in front + of them, sitting on the ground, with his hands clasped around his knees, + and his rifle resting on his arm. Henry watched him idly for a little + while, thinking all the time of his lost comrades. The night promised to + be dark, a good thing for them, as the need of hiding was too evident. + </p> + <p> + Shif'less Sol soon fell asleep, as Henry, only three feet away, knew by + his soft and regular breathing, but the boy himself was still wide-eyed. + </p> + <p> + The darkness seemed to sink down like a great blanket dropping slowly, and + the area of Henry's vision narrowed to a small circle. Within this area + the distinctive object was the figure of Tom Ross, sitting with his rifle + across his knees. Tom had an infinite capacity for immobility. Henry had + never seen another man, not even an Indian, who could remain so long in + one position contented and happy. He believed that the silent one could + sit as he was all night. + </p> + <p> + His surmise about Tom began to have a kind of fascination for him. Would + he remain absolutely still? He would certainly shift an arm or a leg. + Henry's interest in the question kept him awake. He turned silently on the + other side, but, no matter how intently he studied the sitting figure of + his comrade, he could not see it stir. He did not know how long he had + been awake, trying thus to decide a question that should be of no + importance at such a time. Although unable to sleep, he fell into a dreamy + condition, and continued vaguely to watch the rigid and silent sentinel. + </p> + <p> + He suddenly saw Tom stir, and he came from his state of languor. The + exciting question was solved at last. The man would not sit all night + absolutely immovable. There could be no doubt of the fact that he had + raised an arm, and that his figure had straightened. Then he stood up, + full height, remained motionless for perhaps ten seconds, and then + suddenly glided away among the bushes. + </p> + <p> + Henry knew what this meant. Tom had heard something moving in the + thickets, and, like a good sentinel, he had gone to investigate. A rabbit, + doubtless, or perhaps a sneaking raccoon. Henry rose to a sitting + position, and drew his own rifle across his knees. He would watch while + Tom was gone, and then lie would sink quietly back, not letting his + comrade know that lie had taken his place. + </p> + <p> + The faintest of winds began to stir among the thickets. Light clouds + drifted before the moon. Henry, sitting with his rifle across his knees, + and Shif'less Sol, asleep in the shadows, were invisible, but Henry saw + beyond the circle of darkness that enveloped them into the grayish light + that fell over the bushes. He marked the particular point at which he + expected Tom Ross to appear, a slight opening that held out invitation for + the passage of a man. + </p> + <p> + He waited a long time, ten minutes, twenty, a half hour, and the sentinel + did not return. Henry came abruptly out of his dreamy state. He felt with + all the terrible thrill of certainty that what happened to Long Jim and + Paul had happened also to Silent Tom Ross. He stood erect, a tense, tall + figure, alarmed, but not afraid. His eyes searched the thickets, but saw + nothing. The slight movement of the bushes was made by the wind, and no + other sound reached his ears. + </p> + <p> + But he might be mistaken after all! The most convincing premonitions were + sometimes wrong! He would give Tom ten minutes more, and he sank down in a + crouching position, where he would offer the least target for the eye. + </p> + <p> + The appointed time passed, and neither sight nor sound revealed any sign + of Tom Ross. Then Henry awakened Shif'less Sol, and whispered to him all + that he had seen. + </p> + <p> + “Whatever took Jim and Paul has took him,” whispered the shiftless one at + once. + </p> + <p> + Henry nodded. + </p> + <p> + “An' we're bound to look for him right now,” continued Shif'less Sol. + </p> + <p> + “Yes,” said Henry, “but we must stay together. If we follow the others, + Sol, we must follow 'em together.” + </p> + <p> + “It would be safer,” said Sol. “I've an idee that we won't find Tom, an' I + want to tell you, Henry, this thing is gittin' on my nerves.” + </p> + <p> + It was certainly on Henry's, also, but without reply he led the way into + the bushes, and they sought long and well for Silent Tom, keeping at the + same time a thorough watch for any danger that might molest themselves. + But no danger showed, nor did they find Tom or his trail. He, too, had + vanished into nothingness, and Henry and Sol, despite their mental + strength, felt cold shivers. They came back at last, far toward morning, + to the bank of the creek. It was here as elsewhere a narrow but deep + stream flowing between banks so densely wooded that they were almost like + walls. + </p> + <p> + “It will be daylight soon,” said Shif'less Sol, “an' I think we'd better + lay low in thicket an' watch. It looks ez ef we couldn't find anything, so + we'd better wait an' see what will find us.” + </p> + <p> + “It looks like the best plan to me,” said Henry, “but I think we might + first hunt a while on the other side of the creek. We haven't looked any + over there.” + </p> + <p> + “That's so,” replied Shif'less Sol, “but the water is at least seven feet + deep here, an' we don't want to make any splash swimmin'. Suppose you go + up stream, an' I go down, an' the one that finds a ford first kin give a + signal. One uv us ought to strike shallow water in three or four hundred + yards.” + </p> + <p> + Henry followed the current toward the south, while Sol moved up the + stream. The boy went cautiously through the dense foliage, and the creek + soon grew wider and shallower. At a distance of about three hundred yards + lie came to a point where it could be waded easily. Then he uttered the + low cry that was their signal, and went back to meet Shif'less Sol. He + reached the exact point at which they had parted, and waited. The + shiftless one did not come. The last of his comrades was gone, and he was + alone in the forest. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0003" id="link2HCH0003"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER III. THE HUT ON THE ISLET + </h2> + <p> + Henry Ware waited at least a quarter of an hour by the creek on the exact + spot at which he and Solomon Hyde, called the shiftless one, had parted, + but he knew all the while that his last comrade was not coming. The same + powerful and mysterious hand that swept the others away had taken him, the + wary and cunning Shif'less Sol, master of forest lore and with all the + five senses developed to the highest pitch. Yet his powers had availed him + nothing, and the boy again felt that cold chill running down his spine. + </p> + <p> + Henry expected the omnipotent force to come against him, also, but his + instinctive caution made him turn and creep into the thickest of the + forest, continuing until he found a place in the bushes so thoroughly + hidden that no one could see him ten feet away. There he lay down and + rapidly ran over in his mind the events connected with the four + disappearances. They were few, and he had little on which to go, but his + duty to seek his four comrades, since he alone must do it, was all the + greater. Such a thought as deserting them and fleeing for his own life + never entered his mind. He would not only seek them, but he would + penetrate the mystery of the power that had taken them. + </p> + <p> + It was like him now to go about his work with calmness and method. To + approach an arduous task right one must possess freshness and vigor, and + one could have neither without sleep. His present place of hiding seemed + to be as secure as any that could be found. So composing himself he took + all chances and sought slumber. Yet it needed a great effort of the will + to calm his nerves, and it was a half hour before he began to feel any of + the soothing effect that precedes sleep. But fall asleep he did at last, + and, despite everything, he slept soundly until the morning. + </p> + <p> + Henry did not awake to a bright day. The sun had risen, but it was + obscured by gray clouds, and the whole heavens were somber. A cold wind + began to blow, and with it came drops of rain. He shivered despite the + enfolding blanket. The coming of the morning had invariably brought + cheerfulness and increase of spirits, but now he felt depression. He + foresaw heavy rain again, and it would destroy any but the deepest trail. + Moreover, his supplies of food were exhausted and he must replenish them + in some manner before proceeding further. + </p> + <p> + A spirit even as bold and strong as Henry's might well have despaired. He + had found his comrades, only to lose them again, and the danger that had + threatened them, and the elements as well, now threatened him, too. An + acute judge of sky and air, he knew that the rain, cold, insistent, + penetrating, would fall all day, and that he must seek shelter if he would + keep his strength. The Indians themselves always took to cover at such + times. + </p> + <p> + He wrapped the blanket around himself, covering his body well from neck to + ankle, putting his rifle just inside the fold, but with his hand upon it, + ready for instant use if it should be needed. Then he started, walking + straight ahead until he came to the crown of a little hill. The clouds + meanwhile thickened, and the rain, of the kind that he had foreseen and as + cold as ice, was blown against him. The grass and bushes were reeking, and + his moccasins became sodden. Despite the vigorous walking, lie felt the + wet cold entering his system. There come times when the hardiest must + yield, and he saw the increasing need of refuge. + </p> + <p> + He surveyed the country attentively from the low hill. All around was a + dull gray horizon from which the icy rain dripped everywhere. There was no + open country. All was forest, and the heavy rolling masses of foliage + dripped with icy water, too. + </p> + <p> + Toward the south the land seemed to dip down, and Henry surmised that in a + valley he would be more likely to find the shelter that he craved. He + needed it badly. As he stood there he shivered again and again from head + to foot, despite the folds of the blanket. So he started at once, walking + fast, and feeling little fear of a foe. It was not likely that any would + be seeking him at such a time. The rain struck him squarely in the face + now. Water came from his moccasins every time his foot was pressed against + the earth, and, no matter how closely he drew the folds of the blanket, + little streams of it, like ice to the touch, flowed down his neck and made + their way under his clothing. He could not remember a time when he had + felt more miserable. + </p> + <p> + He came in about an hour to the dip which, as he had surmised, was the + edge of a considerable valley. He ran down the slope, and looked all about + for some place of shelter, a thick windbreak in the lee of a hill, or an + outcropping of stone, but he saw neither, and, as he continued the search, + he came to marshy ground. He saw ahead among the weeds and bushes the + gleam of standing pools, and he was about to turn back, when he noticed + three or four stones, in a row and about a yard from one another, + projecting slightly above the black muck. It struck him that the stones + would not naturally be in the soft mud, and, his curiosity aroused, he + stepped lightly from one stone to another. When he came to the last stone + that he had seen from the hard ground he beheld several more that had been + hidden from him by the bushes. Sure now that he had happened upon + something not created by nature alone, he followed these stones, leading + like steps into the very depths of the swamp, which was now deep and dark + with ooze all about him. He no longer doubted that the stones, the + artificial presence of which might have escaped the keenest eye and most + logical mind, were placed there for a purpose, and he was resolved to know + its nature. + </p> + <p> + The stepping stones led him about sixty yards into the swamp, and the last + thirty yards were at an angle from the first thirty. Then he came to a bit + of hard ground, a tiny islet in the mire, upon which he could stand + without sinking at all. He looked back from there, and he could not see + his point of departure. Bushes, weeds, and saplings grew out of the swamp + to a height of a dozen or fifteen feet, and he was inclosed completely. + All the vegetation dripped with cold water, and the place was one of the + most dismal that he had ever seen. But he had no thought of turning back. + </p> + <p> + Henry made a shrewd guess as to whither the path led, but he inferred from + the appearance of the stepping stones-chiefly from the fact that an odd + one here and there had sunk completely out of sight-that they had not been + used in a long time, perhaps for years. He found on the other side of the + islet a second line of stones, and they led across a marsh, that was + almost like a black liquid, to another and larger island. + </p> + <p> + Here the ground was quite firm, supporting a thick growth of large trees. + It seemed to Henry that this island might be seventy or eighty yards + across, and he began at once to explore it. In the center, surrounded so + closely by swamp oaks that they almost formed a living wall, he found what + he had hoped to find, and his relief was so great that, despite his + natural and trained stoicism, he gave a little cry of pleasure when he saw + it. + </p> + <p> + A small lodge, made chiefly of poles and bark after the Iroquois fashion, + stood within the circle of the trees, occupying almost the whole of the + space. It was apparently abandoned long ago, and time and weather had done + it much damage. But the bark walls, although they leaned in places at + dangerous angles, still stood. The bark roof was pierced by holes on one + side, but on the other it was still solid, and shed all the rain from its + slope. + </p> + <p> + The door was open, but a shutter made of heavy pieces of bark cunningly + joined together leaned against the wall, and Henry saw that he could make + use of it. He stepped inside. The hut had a bark floor which was dry on + one side, where the roof was solid, but dripping on the other. Several old + articles of Indian use lay about. In one corner was a basket woven of + split willow and still fit for service. There were pieces of thread made + of Indian hemp and the inner bark of the elm. There were also a piece of + pottery and a large, beautifully carved wooden spoon such as every + Iroquois carried. In the corner farthest from the door was a rude + fireplace made of large flat stones, although there was no opening for the + smoke. + </p> + <p> + Henry surveyed it all thoughtfully, and he came to the conclusion that it + was a hut for hunting, built by some warrior of an inquiring mind who had + found this secret place, and who had recognized its possibilities. Here + after an expedition for game he could lie hidden from enemies and take his + comfort without fear. Doubtless he had sat in this hut on rainy days like + the present one and smoked his pipe in the long, patient calm of which the + Indian is capable. + </p> + <p> + Yes, there was the pipe, unnoticed before, trumpet shaped and carved + beautifully, lying on a small bark shelf. Henry picked it tip and examined + the bowl. It was as dry as a bone, and not a particle of tobacco was left + there. He believed that it had not been used for at least a year. + Doubtless the Indian who had built this hunting lodge had fallen in some + foray, and the secret of it had been lost until Henry Ware, seeking + through the cold and rain, had stumbled upon it. + </p> + <p> + It was nothing but a dilapidated little lodge of poles and bark, all + a-leak, but the materials of a house were there, and Henry was strong and + skillful. He covered the holes in the roof with fallen pieces of bark, + laying heavy pieces of wood across them to hold them in place. Then he + lifted the bark shutter into position and closed the door. Some drops of + rain still came in through the roof, but they were not many, and he would + not mind them for the present. Then he opened the door and began his + hardest task. + </p> + <p> + He intended to build a fire on the flat stones, and, securing fallen wood, + he stripped off the bark and cut splinters from the inside. It was slow + work and he was very cold, his wet feet sending chills through him, but he + persevered, and the little heap of dry splinters grew to a respectable + size. Then he cut larger pieces, laying them on one side while he worked + with his flint and steel on the splinters. + </p> + <p> + Flint and steel are not easily handled even by the most skillful, and + Henry saw the spark leap up and die out many times before it finally took + hold of the end of the tiniest splinter and grew. He watched it as it ran + along the little piece of wood and ignited another and then another, the + beautiful little red and yellow flames leaping up half a foot in height. + Already he felt the grateful warmth and glow, but he would not let himself + indulge in premature joy. He fed it with larger and larger pieces until + the flames, a deeper and more beautiful red and yellow, rose at least two + feet, and big coals began to form. He left the door open a while in order + that the smoke might go out, but when the fire had become mostly coals he + closed it again, all except a crack of about six inches, which would serve + at once to let any stray smoke out, and to let plenty of fresh air in. + </p> + <p> + Now Henry, all his preparations made, no detail neglected, proceeded to + luxuriate. He spread the soaked blanket out on the bark floor, took off + the sodden moccasins and placed them at one angle of the fire, while he + sat with his bare feet in front. What a glorious warmth it was! It seemed + to enter at his toes and proceed upward through his body, seeking out + every little nook and cranny, to dry and warm it, and fill it full of new + glow and life. + </p> + <p> + He sat there a long time, his being radiating with physical comfort. The + moccasins dried on one side, and he turned the other. Finally they dried + all over and all through, and he put them on again. Then he hung the + blanket on the bark wall near the fire, and it, too, would be dry in + another hour or so. He foresaw a warm and dry place for the night, and + sleep. Now if one only had food! But he must do without that for the + present. + </p> + <p> + He rose and tested all his bones and muscles. No stiffness or soreness had + come from the rain and cold, and he was satisfied. He was fit for any + physical emergency. He looked out through the crevice. Night was coming, + and on the little island in the swamp it looked inexpressibly black and + gloomy. His stomach complained, but he shrugged his shoulders, + acknowledging primitive necessity, and resumed his seat by the fire. There + he sat until the blanket had dried, and deep night had fully come. + </p> + <p> + In the last hour or two Henry did not move. He remained before the fire, + crouched slightly forward, while the generous heat fed the flame of life + in him. A glowing bar, penetrating the crevice at the door, fell on the + earth outside, but it did not pass beyond the close group of circling + trees. The rain still fell with uncommon steadiness and persistence, but + at times hail was mingled with it. Henry could not remember in his + experience a more desolate night. It seemed that the whole world dwelt in + perpetual darkness, and that he was the only living being on it. Yet + within the four or five feet square of the hut it was warm and bright, and + he was not unhappy. + </p> + <p> + He would forget the pangs of hunger, and, wrapping himself in the dry + blanket, he lay down before the bed of coals, having first raked ashes + over them, and he slept one of the soundest sleeps of his life. All night + long, the dull cold rain fell, and with it, at intervals, came gusts of + hail that rattled like bird shot on the bark walls of the hut. Some of the + white pellets blew in at the door, and lay for a moment or two on the + floor, then melted in the glow of the fire, and were gone. + </p> + <p> + But neither wind, rain nor hail awoke Henry. He was as safe, for the time, + in the hut on the islet, as if he were in the fort at Pittsburgh or behind + the palisades at Wareville. Dawn came, the sky still heavy and dark with + clouds, and the rain still falling. + </p> + <p> + Henry, after his first sense of refreshment and pleasure, became conscious + of a fierce hunger that no amount of the will could now keep quiet. His + was a powerful system, needing much nourishment, and he must eat. That + hunger became so great that it was acute physical pain. He was assailed by + it at all points, and it could be repelled by only one thing, food. He + must go forth, taking all risks, and seek it. + </p> + <p> + He put on fresh wood, covering it with ashes in order that it might not + blaze too high, and left the islet. The stepping stones were slippery with + water, and his moccasins soon became soaked again, but he forgot the cold + and wet in that ferocious hunger, the attacks of which became more violent + every minute. He was hopeful that he might see a deer, or even a squirrel, + but the animals themselves were likely to keep under cover in such a rain. + He expected a hard hunt, and it would be attended also by much danger—these + woods must be full of Indians—but he thought little of the risk. His + hunger was taking complete possession of his mind. He was realizing now + that one might want a thing so much that it would drive away all other + thoughts. + </p> + <p> + Rifle in hand, ready for any quick shot, he searched hour after hour + through the woods and thickets. He was wet, bedraggled, and as fierce as a + famishing panther, but neither skill nor instinct guided him to anything. + The rabbit hid in his burrow, the squirrel remained in his hollow tree, + and the deer did not leave his covert. + </p> + <p> + Henry could not well calculate the passage of time, it seemed so fearfully + long, and there was no one to tell him, but he judged that it must be + about noon, and his temper was becoming that of the famished panther to + which he likened himself. He paused and looked around the circle of the + dripping woods. He had retained his idea of direction and he knew that he + could go straight back to the hut in the swamp. But he had no idea of + returning now. A power that neither he nor anyone else could resist was + pushing him on his search. + </p> + <p> + Searching the gloomy horizon again, he saw against the dark sky a thin and + darker line that he knew to be smoke. He inferred, also, with certainty, + that it came from an Indian camp, and, without hesitation, turned his + course toward it. Indian camp though it might be, and containing the + deadliest of foes, he was glad to know something lived beside himself in + this wilderness. + </p> + <p> + He approached with great caution, and found his surmise to be correct. + Lying full length in a wet thicket he saw a party of about twenty + warriors-Mohawks he took them to be-in an oak opening. They had erected + bark shelters, they had good fires, and they were cooking. He saw them + roasting the strips over the coals-bear meat, venison, squirrel, rabbit, + bird-and the odor, so pleasant at other times, assailed his nostrils. But + it was now only a taunt and a torment. It aroused every possible pang of + hunger, and every one of them stabbed like a knife. + </p> + <p> + The warriors, so secure in their forest isolation, kept no sentinels, and + they were enjoying themselves like men who had everything they wanted. + Henry could hear them laughing and talking, and he watched them as they + ate strip after strip of the delicate, tender meat with the wonderful + appetite that the Indian has after long fasting. A fierce, unreasoning + anger and jealousy laid hold of him. He was starving, and they rejoiced in + plenty only fifty yards away. He began to form plans for a piratical + incursion upon them. Half the body of a deer lay near the edge of the + opening, he would rush upon it, seize it, and dart away. It might be + possible to escape with such spoil. + </p> + <p> + Then he recalled his prudence. Such a thing was impossible. The whole band + of warriors would be upon him in an instant. The best thing that he could + do was to shut out the sight of so much luxury in which he could not + share, and he crept away among the bushes wondering what he could do to + drive away those terrible pains. His vigorous system was crying louder + than ever for the food that would sustain it. His eyes were burning a + little too brightly, and his face was touched with fever. + </p> + <p> + Henry stopped once to catch a last glimpse of the fires and the feasting + Indians under the bark shelters. He saw a warrior raise a bone, grasping + it in both hands, and bite deep into the tender flesh that clothed it. The + sight inflamed him into an anger almost uncontrollable. He clenched his + fist and shook it at the warrior, who little suspected the proximity of a + hatred so intense. Then he bent his head down and rushed away among the + wet bushes which in rebuke at his lack of caution raked him across the + face. + </p> + <p> + Henry walked despondently back toward the islet in the swamp. The aspect + of air and sky had not changed. The heavens still dripped icy water, and + there was no ray of cheerfulness anywhere. The game remained well hidden. + </p> + <p> + It was a long journey back, and as he felt that he was growing weak he + made no haste. He came to dense clumps of bushes, and plowing his way + through them, he saw a dark opening under some trees thrown down by an old + hurricane. Having some vague idea that it might be the lair of a wild + animal, he thrust the muzzle of his rifle into the darkness. It touched a + soft substance. There was a growl, and a black form shot out almost into + his face. Henry sprang aside, and in an instant all his powers and + faculties returned. He had stirred up a black bear, and before the animal, + frightened as much as he was enraged, could run far the boy, careless how + many Indians might hear, threw up his rifle and fired. + </p> + <p> + His aim was good. The bear, shot through the head, fell, and was dead. + Henry, transformed, ran up to him. Bear life had been given up to sustain + man's. Here was food for many days, and he rejoiced with a great joy. He + did not now envy those warriors back there. + </p> + <p> + The bear, although small, was very fat. Evidently he had fed well on + acorns and wild honey, and he would yield up steaks which, to one with + Henry's appetite, would be beyond compare. He calculated that it was more + than a mile to the swamp, and, after a few preliminaries, he flung the + body of the bear over his shoulder. Through some power of the mind over + the body his full strength had returned to him miraculously, and when he + reached the stepping stones he crossed from one to another lightly and + firmly, despite the weight that he carried. + </p> + <p> + He came to the little bark hut which he now considered his own. The night + had fallen again, but some coals still glowed under the ashes, and there + was plenty of dry wood. He did everything decently and in order. He took + the pelt from the bear, carved the body properly, and then, just as the + Indians had done, he broiled strips over the coals. He ate them one after + another, slowly, and tasting all the savor, and, intense as was the mere + physical pleasure, it was mingled with a deep thankfulness. Not only was + the life nourished anew in him, but he would now regain the strength to + seek his comrades. + </p> + <p> + When he had eaten enough he fastened the body of the bear, now in several + portions, on hooks high upon the walls, hooks which evidently had been + placed there by the former owner of the hut for this very purpose. Then, + sure that the savor of the food would draw other wild animals, he brought + one of the stepping stones and placed it on the inside of the door. The + door could not be pushed aside without arousing him, and, secure in the + knowledge, he went to sleep before the coals. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0004" id="link2HCH0004"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER IV. THE RED CHIEFS + </h2> + <p> + Henry awoke only once, and that was about half way between midnight and + morning, when his senses, never still entirely, even in sleep, warned him + that something was at the door. He rose cautiously upon his arm, saw a + dark muzzle at the crevice, and behind it a pair of yellow, gleaming eyes. + He knew at once that it was a panther, probably living in the swamp and + drawn by the food. It must be very hungry to dare thus the smell of man. + Henry's hand moved slowly to the end of a stick, the other end of which + was a glowing coal. Then he seized it and hurled it directly at the + inquisitive head. + </p> + <p> + The hot end of the stick struck squarely between the yellow eyes. There + was a yelp of pain, and the boy heard the rapid pad of the big cat's feet + as it fled into the swamp. Then he turned over on his side, and laughed in + genuine pleasure at what was to him a true forest joke. He knew the + panther would not come, at least not while he was in the hut, and he + calmly closed his eyes once more. The old Henry was himself again. + </p> + <p> + He awoke in the morning to find that the cold rain was still falling. It + seemed to him that it had prepared to rain forever, but he was resolved, + nevertheless, now that he had food and the strength that food brings, to + begin the search for his comrades. The islet in the swamp would serve as + his base-nothing could be better-and he would never cease until he found + them or discovered what had become of them. + </p> + <p> + A little spring of cold water flowed from the edge of the islet to lose + itself quickly in the swamp. Henry drank there after his breakfast, and + then felt as strong and active as ever. As he knew, the mind may triumph + over the body, but the mind cannot save the body without food. Then he + made his precious bear meat secure against the prowling panther or others + of his kind, tying it on hanging boughs too high for a jump and too + slender to support the weight of a large animal. This task finished + quickly, he left the swamp and returned toward the spot where lie had seen + the Mohawks. + </p> + <p> + The falling rain and the somber clouds helped Henry, in a way, as the + whole forest was enveloped in a sort of gloom, and he was less likely to + be seen. But when he had gone about half the distance he heard Indians + signaling to one another, and, burying himself as usual in the wet bushes, + he saw two small groups of warriors meet and talk. Presently they + separated, one party going toward the east and the other toward the west. + Henry thought they were out hunting, as the Indians usually took little + care of the morrow, eating all their food in a few days, no matter how + great the supply might be. + </p> + <p> + When he drew near the place he saw three more Indians, and these were + traveling directly south. He was quite sure now that his theory was + correct. They were sending out hunters in every direction, in order that + they might beat up the woods thoroughly for game, and his own position + anywhere except on the islet was becoming exceedingly precarious. + Nevertheless, using all his wonderful skill, he continued the hunt. He had + an abiding faith that his four comrades were yet alive, and he meant to + prove it. + </p> + <p> + In the afternoon the clouds moved away a little, and the rain decreased, + though it did not cease. The Indian signs multiplied, and Henry felt sure + that the forest within a radius of twenty miles of his islet contained + more than one camp. Some great gathering must be in progress and the + hunters were out to supply it with food. Four times he heard the sound of + shots, and thrice more he saw warriors passing through the forest. Once a + wounded deer darted past him, and, lying down in the bushes, he saw the + Indians following the fleeing animal. As the day grew older the trails + multiplied. Certainly a formidable gathering of bands was in progress, + and, feeling that he might at any time be caught in a net, he returned to + the islet, which had now become a veritable fort for him. + </p> + <p> + It was not quite dark when he arrived, and he found all as it had been + except the tracks of two panthers under the boughs to which he had + fastened the big pieces of bear meat. Henry felt a malicious satisfaction + at the disappointment of the panthers. + </p> + <p> + “Come again, and have the same bad luck,” he murmured. + </p> + <p> + At dusk the rain ceased entirely, and he prepared for a journey in the + night. He examined his powder carefully to see that no particle of it was + wet, counted the bullets in his pouch, and then examined the skies. There + was a little moon, not too much, enough to show him the way, but not + enough to disclose him to an enemy unless very near. Then he left the + islet and went swiftly through the forest, laying his course a third time + toward the Indian camp. He was sure now that all the hunters had returned, + and he did not expect the necessity of making any stops for the purpose of + hiding. His hopes were justified, and as he drew near the camp he became + aware that its population had increased greatly. It was proved by many + signs. New trails converged upon it, and some of them were very broad, + indicating that many warriors had passed. They had passed, too, in perfect + confidence, as there was no effort at concealment, and Henry surmised that + no white force of any size could be within many days' march of this place. + But the very security of the Indians helped his own design. They would not + dream that any one of the hated race was daring to come almost within the + light of their fires. + </p> + <p> + Henry had but one fear just now, and that was dogs. If the Indians had any + of their mongrel curs with them, they would quickly scent him out and give + the alarm with their barking. But he believed that the probabilities were + against it. This, so he thought then, was a war or hunting camp, and it + was likely that the Indians would leave the dogs at their permanent + villages. At any rate he would take the risk, and he drew slowly toward + the oak opening, where some Indians stood about. Beyond them, in another + dip of the valley, was a wider opening which he had not seen on his first + trip, and this contained not only bark shelters, but buildings that + indicated a permanent village. The second and larger opening was filled + with a great concourse of warriors. + </p> + <p> + Fortunately the foliage around the opening was very dense, many trees and + thickets everywhere. Henry crept to the very rim, where, lying in the + blackest of the shadows, and well hidden himself, he could yet see nearly + everything in the camp. The men were not eating now, although it was + obvious that the hunters had done well. The dressed bodies of deer and + bear hung in the bark shelters. Most of the Indians sat about the fires, + and it seemed to Henry that they had an air of expectancy. At least two + hundred were present, and all of them were in war paint, although there + were several styles of paint. There was a difference in appearance, too, + in the warriors, and Henry surmised that representatives of all the tribes + of the Iroquois were there, coming to the extreme western boundary or + fringe of their country. + </p> + <p> + While Henry watched them a half dozen who seemed by their bearing and + manner to be chiefs drew together at a point not far from him and talked + together earnestly. Now and then they looked toward the forest, and he was + quite sure that they were expecting somebody, a person of importance. He + became deeply interested. He was lying in a dense clump of hazel bushes, + flat upon his stomach, his face raised but little above the ground. He + would have been hidden from the keenest eye only ten feet away, but the + faces of the chiefs outlined against the blazing firelight were so clearly + visible to him that he could see every change of expression. They were + fine-looking men, all of middle age, tall, lean, their noses hooked, + features cut clean and strong, and their heads shaved, all except the + defiant scalp lock, into which the feather of an eagle was twisted. Their + bodies were draped in fine red or blue blankets, and they wore leggins and + moccasins of beautifully tanned deerskin. + </p> + <p> + They ceased talking presently, and Henry heard a distant wailing note from + the west. Some one in the camp replied with a cry in kind, and then a + silence fell upon them all. The chiefs stood erect, looking toward the + west. Henry knew that he whom they expected was at hand. + </p> + <p> + The cry was repeated, but much nearer, and a warrior leaped into the + opening, in the full blaze of the firelight. He was entirely naked save + for a breech cloth and moccasins, and he was a wild and savage figure. He + stood for a moment or two, then faced the chiefs, and, bowing before them, + spoke a few words in the Wyandot tongue-Henry knew already by his paint + that he was a Wyandot. + </p> + <p> + The chiefs inclined their heads gravely, and the herald, turning, leaped + back into the forest. In two or three minutes six men, including the + herald, emerged from the woods, and Henry moved a little when he saw the + first of the six, all of whom were Wyandots. It was Timmendiquas, head + chief of the Wyandots, and Henry had never seen him more splendid in + manner and bearing than he was as he thus met the representatives of the + famous Six Nations. Small though the Wyandot tribe might be, mighty was + its valor and fame, and White Lightning met the great Iroquois only as an + equal, in his heart a superior. + </p> + <p> + It was an extraordinary thing, but Henry, at this very moment, burrowing + in the earth that he might not lose his life at the hands of either, was + an ardent partisan of Timmendiquas. It was the young Wyandot chief whom he + wished to be first, to make the greatest impression, and he was pleased + when he heard the low hum of admiration go round the circle of two hundred + savage warriors. It was seldom, indeed, perhaps never, that the Iroquois + had looked upon such a man as Timmendiquas. + </p> + <p> + Timmendiquas and his companions advanced slowly toward the chiefs, and the + Wyandot overtopped all the Iroquois. Henry could tell by the manner of the + chiefs that the reputation of the famous White Lightning had preceded him, + and that they had already found fact equal to report. + </p> + <p> + The chiefs, Timmendiquas among them, sat down on logs before the fire, and + all the warriors withdrew to a respectful distance, where they stood and + watched in silence. The oldest chief took his long pipe, beautifully + carved and shaped like a trumpet, and filled it with tobacco which he + lighted with a coal from the fire. Then he took two or three whiffs and + passed the pipe to Timmendiquas, who did the same. Every chief smoked the + pipe, and then they sat still, waiting in silence. + </p> + <p> + Henry was so much absorbed in this scene, which was at once a spectacle + and a drama, that he almost forgot where he was, and that he was an enemy. + He wondered now at their silence. If this was a council surely they would + discuss whatever question had brought them there! But he was soon + enlightened. That low far cry came again, but from the east. It was + answered, as before, from the camp, and in three or four minutes a warrior + sprang from the forest into the opening. Like the first, he was naked + except for the breech cloth and moccasins. The chiefs rose at his coming, + received his salute gravely, and returned it as gravely. Then he returned + to the forest, and all waited in the splendid calm of the Indian. + </p> + <p> + Curiosity pricked Henry like a nettle. Who was coming now? It must be some + man of great importance, or they would not wait so silently. There was the + same air of expectancy that had preceded the arrival of Timmendiquas. All + the warriors looked toward the eastern wall of the forest, and Henry + looked the same way. Presently the black foliage parted, and a man stepped + forth, followed at a little distance by seven or eight others. The + stranger, although tall, was not equal in height to Timmendiquas, but he, + too, had a lofty and splendid presence, and it was evident to anyone + versed at all in forest lore that here was a great chief. He was lean but + sinewy, and he moved with great ease and grace. He reminded Henry of a + powerful panther. He was dressed, after the manner of famous chiefs, with + the utmost care. His short military coat of fine blue cloth bore a silver + epaulet on either shoulder. His head was not bare, disclosing the scalp + lock, like those of the other Indians; it was covered instead with a small + hat of felt, round and laced. Hanging carelessly over one shoulder was a + blanket of blue cloth with a red border. At his side, from a belt of blue + leather swung a silver-mounted small sword. His leggins were of superfine + blue cloth and his moccasins of deerskin. Both were trimmed with small + beads of many colors. + </p> + <p> + The new chief advanced into the opening amid the dead silence that still + held all, and Timmendiquas stepped forward to meet him. These two held the + gaze of everyone, and what they and they alone did had become of + surpassing interest. Each was haughty, fully aware of his own dignity and + importance, but they met half way, looked intently for a moment or two + into the eyes of each other, and then saluted gravely. + </p> + <p> + All at once Henry knew the stranger. He had never seen him before, but his + impressive reception, and the mixture of military and savage attire + revealed him. This could be none other than the great Mohawk war chief, + Thayendanegea, the Brant of the white men, terrible name on the border. + Henry gazed at him eagerly from his covert, etching his features forever + on his memory. His face, lean and strong, was molded much like that of + Timmendiquas, and like the Wyandot he was young, under thirty. + </p> + <p> + Timmendiquas and Thayendanegea-it was truly he-returned to the fire, and + once again the trumpet-shaped pipe was smoked by all. The two young chiefs + received the seats of favor, and others sat about them. But they were not + the only great chiefs present, though all yielded first place to them + because of their character and exploits. + </p> + <p> + Henry was not mistaken in his guess that this was an important council, + although its extent exceeded even his surmise. Delegates and head chiefs + of all the Six Nations were present to confer with the warlike Wyandots of + the west who had come so far east to meet them. Thayendanegea was the + great war chief of the Mohawks, but not their titular chief. The latter + was an older man, Te-kie-ho-ke (Two Voices), who sat beside the younger. + The other chiefs were the Onondaga, Tahtoo-ta-hoo (The Entangled); the + Oneida, O-tat-sheh-te (Bearing a Quiver); the Cayuga, Te-ka-ha-hoonk (He + Who Looks Both Ways); the Seneca, Kan-ya-tai-jo (Beautiful Lake); and the + Tuscarora, Ta-ha-en-te-yahwak-hon (Encircling and Holding Up a Tree). The + names were hereditary, and because in a dim past they had formed the great + confederacy, the Onondagas were first in the council, and were also the + high priests and titular head of the Six Nations. But the Mohawks were + first on-the war path. + </p> + <p> + All the Six Nations were divided into clans, and every clan, camping in + its proper place, was represented at this meeting. + </p> + <p> + Henry had heard much at Pittsburgh of the Six Nations, their wonderful + league, and their wonderful history. He knew that according to the legend + the league had been formed by Hiawatha, an Onondaga. He was opposed in + this plan by Tododaho, then head chief of the Onondagas, but he went to + the Mohawks and gained the support of their great chief, Dekanawidah. With + his aid the league was formed, and the solemn agreement, never broken, was + made at the Onondaga Lake. Now they were a perfect little state, with + fifty chiefs, or, including the head chiefs, fifty-six. + </p> + <p> + Some of these details Henry was to learn later. He was also to learn many + of the words that the chiefs said through a source of which he little + dreamed at the present. Yet he divined much of it from the meeting of the + fiery Wyandots with the highly developed and warlike power of the Six + Nations. + </p> + <p> + Thayendanegea was talking now, and Timmendiquas, silent and grave, was + listening. The Mohawk approached his subject indirectly through the trope, + allegory, and simile that the Indian loved. He talked of the unseen + deities that ruled the life of the Iroquois through mystic dreams. He + spoke of the trees, the rocks, and the animals, all of which to the + Iroquois had souls. He called on the name of the Great Spirit, which was + Aieroski before it became Manitou, the Great Spirit who, in the Iroquois + belief, had only the size of a dwarf because his soul was so mighty that + he did not need body. + </p> + <p> + “This land is ours, the land of your people and mine, oh, chief of the + brave Wyandots,” he said to Timmendiquas. “Once there was no land, only + the waters, but Aieroski raised the land of Konspioni above the foam. Then + he sowed five handfuls of red seed in it, and from those handfuls grew the + Five Nations. Later grew up the Tuscaroras, who have joined us and other + tribes of our race, like yours, great chief of the brave Wyandots.” + </p> + <p> + Timmendiquas still said nothing. He did not allow an eyelid to flicker at + this assumption of superiority for the Six Nations over all other tribes. + A great warrior he was, a great politician also, and he wished to unite + the Iroquois in a firm league with the tribes of the Ohio valley. The + coals from the great fire glowed and threw out an intense heat. + Thayendanegea unbuttoned his military coat and threw it back, revealing a + bare bronze chest, upon which was painted the device of the Mohawks, a + flint and steel. The chests of the Onondaga, Cayuga, and Seneca head + chiefs were also bared to the glow. The device on the chest of the + Onondaga was a cabin on top of a hill, the Caytiga's was a great pipe, and + the figure of a mountain adorned the Seneca bronze. + </p> + <p> + “We have had the messages that you have sent to us, Timmendiquas,” said + Thayendanegea, “and they are good in the eyes of our people, the + Rotinonsionni (the Mohawks). They please, too, the ancient tribe, the + Kannoseone (the Onondagas), the valiant Hotinonsionni (the Senecas), and + all our brethren of the Six Nations. All the land from the salt water to + the setting sun was given to the red men by Aieroski, but if we do not + defend it we cannot keep it.” + </p> + <p> + “It is so,” said Timmendiquas, speaking for the first time. “We have + fought them on the Ohio and in Kaintuck-ee, where they come with their + rifles and axes. The whole might of the Wyandots, the Shawnees, the + Miamis, the Illinois, the Delawares, and the Ottawas has gone forth + against them. We have slain many of them, but we have failed to drive them + back. Now we have come to ask the Six Nations to press down upon them in + the east with all your power, while we do the same in the west. Surely + then your Aieroski and our Manitou, who are the same, will not refuse us + success.” + </p> + <p> + The eyes of Thayendanegea glistened. + </p> + <p> + “You speak well, Timmendiquas,” he said. “All the red men must unite to + fight for the land of Konspioni which Aieroski raised above the sea, and + we be two, you and I, Timmendiquas, fit to lead them to battle.” + </p> + <p> + “It is so,” said Timmendiquas gravely. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0005" id="link2HCH0005"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER V. THE IROQUOIS TOWN + </h2> + <p> + Henry lay fully an hour in the bushes. He had forgotten about the dogs + that he dreaded, but evidently he was right in his surmise that the camp + contained none. Nothing disturbed him while he stared at what was passing + by the firelight. There could be no doubt that the meeting of Timmendiquas + and Thayendanegea portended great things, but he would not be stirred from + his task of rescuing his comrades or discovering their fate. + </p> + <p> + They two, great chiefs, sat long in close converse. Others-older men, + chiefs, also-came at times and talked with them. But these two, proud, + dominating, both singularly handsome men of the Indian type, were always + there. Henry was almost ready to steal away when he saw a new figure + approaching the two chiefs. The walk and bearing of the stranger were + familiar, and HENRY knew him even before his face was lighted tip by the + fire. It was Braxton Wyatt, the renegade, who had escaped the great + battles on both the Ohio and the Mississippi, and who was here with the + Iroquois, ready to do to his own race all the evil that he could. Henry + felt a shudder of repulsion, deeper than any Indian could inspire in him. + They fought for their own land and their own people, but Braxton Wyatt had + violated everything that an honest man should hold sacred. + </p> + <p> + Henry, on the whole, was not surprised to see him. Such a chance was sure + to draw Braxton Wyatt. Moreover, the war, so far as it pertained to the + border, seemed to be sweeping toward the northeast, and it bore many + stormy petrels upon its crest. + </p> + <p> + He watched Wyatt as he walked toward one of the fires. There the renegade + sat down and talked with the warriors, apparently on the best of terms. He + was presently joined by two more renegades, whom Henry recognized as + Blackstaffe and Quarles. Timmendiquas and Thayendanegea rose after a + while, and walked toward the center of the camp, where several of the bark + shelters had been enclosed entirely. Henry judged that one had been set + apart for each, but they were lost from his view when they passed within + the circling ring of warriors. + </p> + <p> + Henry believed that the Iroquois and Wyandots would form a fortified camp + here, a place from which they would make sudden and terrible forays upon + the settlements. He based his opinion upon the good location and the great + number of saplings that had been cut down already. They would build strong + lodges and then a palisade around them with the saplings. He was speedily + confirmed in this opinion when he saw warriors come to the forest with + hatchets and begin to cut down more saplings. He knew then that it was + time to go, as a wood chopper might blunder upon him at any time. + </p> + <p> + He slipped from his covert and was quickly gone in the forest. His limbs + were somewhat stiff from lying so long in one position, but that soon wore + away, and he was comparatively fresh when he came once more to the islet + in the swamp. A good moon was now shining, tipping the forest with a fine + silvery gray, and Henry purveyed with the greatest satisfaction the simple + little shelter that he had found so opportunely. It was a good house, too, + good to such a son of the deepest forest as was Henry. It was made of + nothing but bark and poles, but it had kept out all that long, penetrating + rain of the last three or four days, and when he lifted the big stone + aside and opened the door it seemed as snug a place as he could have + wished. + </p> + <p> + He left the door open a little, lighted a small fire on the flat stones, + having no fear that it would be seen through the dense curtain that shut + him in, and broiled big bear steaks on the coals. When he had eaten and + the fire had died he went out and sat beside the hut. He was well + satisfied with the day's work, and he wished now to think with all the + concentration that one must put upon a great task if he expects to achieve + it. He intended to invade the Indian camp, and he knew full well that it + was the most perilous enterprise that he had ever attempted. Yet scouts + and hunters had done such things and had escaped with their lives. He must + not shrink from the path that others had trodden. + </p> + <p> + He made up his mind firmly, and partly thought out his plan of operations. + Then he rested, and so sanguine was his temperament that he began to + regard the deed itself as almost achieved. Decision is always soothing + after doubt, and he fell into a pleasant dreamy state. A gentle wind was + blowing, the forest was dry and the leaves rustled with the low note that + is like the softest chord of a violin. It became penetrating, thrillingly + sweet, and hark! it spoke to him in a voice that he knew. It was the same + voice that he had heard on the Ohio, mystic, but telling him to be of + heart and courage. He would triumph over hardships and dangers, and he + would see his friends again. + </p> + <p> + Henry started up from his vision. The song was gone, and he heard only the + wind softly moving the leaves. It had been vague and shadowy as gossamer, + light as the substance of a dream, but it was real to him, nevertheless, + and the deep glow of certain triumph permeated his being, body and mind. + It was not strange that he had in his nature something of the Indian + mysticism that personified the winds and the trees and everything about + him. The Manitou of the red man and the ancient Aieroski of the Iroquois + were the same as his own God. He could not doubt that he had a message. + Down on the Ohio he had had the same message more than once, and it had + always come true. + </p> + <p> + He heard a slight rustling among the bushes, and, sitting perfectly still, + he saw a black bear emerge into the open. It had gained the islet in some + manner, probably floundering through the black mire, and the thought + occurred to him that it was the mate of the one he had slain, drawn + perhaps by instinct on the trail of a lost comrade. He could have shot the + bear as he sat-and he would need fresh supplies of food soon-but he did + not have the heart to do it. + </p> + <p> + The bear sniffed a little at the wind, which was blowing the human odor + away from him, and sat back on his haunches. Henry did not believe that + the animal had seen him or was yet aware of his presence, although he + might suspect. There was something humorous and also pathetic in the + visitor, who cocked his head on one side and looked about him. He made a + distinct appeal to Henry, who sat absolutely still, so still that the + little bear could not be sure at first that he was a human being. A minute + passed, and the red eye of the bear rested upon the boy. Henry felt + pleasant and sociable, but he knew that he could retain friendly relations + only by remaining quiet. + </p> + <p> + “If I have eaten your comrade, my friend,” he said to himself, “it is only + because of hard necessity.” The bear, little, comic, and yet with that + touch of pathos about him, cocked his head a little further over on one + side, and as a silver shaft of moonlight fell upon him Henry could see one + red eye gleaming. It was a singular fact, but the boy, alone in the + wilderness, and the loser of his comrades, felt for the moment a sense of + comradeship with the bear, which was also alone, and doubtless the loser + of a comrade, also. He uttered a soft growling sound like the satisfied + purr of a bear eating its food. + </p> + <p> + The comical bear rose a little higher on his hind paws, and looked in + astonishment at the motionless figure that uttered sounds so familiar. Yet + the figure was not familiar. He had never seen a human being before, and + the shape and outline were very strange to him. It might be some new kind + of animal, and he was disposed to be inquiring, because there was nothing + in these forests which the black bear was afraid of until man came. + </p> + <p> + He advanced a step or two and growled gently. Then he reared up again on + his hind paws, and cocked his held to one side in his amusing manner. + Henry, still motionless, smiled at him. Here, for an instant at least, was + a cheery visitor and companionship. He at least would not break the spell. + </p> + <p> + “You look almost as if you could talk, old fellow,” he said to himself, + “and if I knew your language I'd ask you a lot of questions.” + </p> + <p> + The bear, too, was motionless now, torn by doubt and curiosity. It + certainly was a singular figure that sat there, fifteen or twenty yards + before him, and he had the most intense curiosity to solve the mystery of + this creature. But caution held him back. + </p> + <p> + There was a sudden flaw in the light breeze. It shifted about and brought + the dreadful man odor to the nostrils of the honest black bear. It was + something entirely new to him, but it contained the quality of fear. That + still strange figure was his deadliest foe. Dropping down upon his four + paws, he fled among the trees, and then scrambled somehow through the + swamp to the mainland. + </p> + <p> + Henry sighed. Despite his own friendly feeling, the bear, warned by + instinct, was afraid of him, and, as he was bound to acknowledge to + himself, the bear's instinct was doubtless right. He rose, went into the + hut, and slept heavily through the night. In the morning he left the islet + once more to scout in the direction of the Indian camp, but he found it a + most dangerous task. The woods were full of warriors hunting. As he had + judged, the game was abundant, and he heard rifles cracking in several + directions. He loitered, therefore, in the thickest of the thickets, + willing to wait until night came for his enterprise. It was advisable, + moreover, to wait, because he did not see yet just how he was going to + succeed. He spent nearly the whole day shifting here and there through the + forest, but late in the afternoon, as the Indians yet seemed so numerous + in the woods, he concluded to go back toward the islet. + </p> + <p> + He was about two miles from the swamp when he heard a cry, sharp but + distant. It was that of the savages, and Henry instinctively divined the + cause. A party of the warriors had come somehow upon his trail, and they + would surely follow it. It was a mischance that he had not expected. He + waited a minute or two, and then heard the cry again, but nearer. He knew + that it would come no more, but it confirmed him in his first opinion. + </p> + <p> + Henry had little fear of being caught, as the islet was so securely + hidden, but he did not wish to take even a remote chance of its discovery. + Hence he ran to the eastward of it, intending as the darkness came, hiding + his trail, to double back and regain the hut. + </p> + <p> + He proceeded at a long, easy gait, his mind not troubled by the pursuit. + It was to him merely an incident that should be ended as soon as possible, + annoying perhaps, but easily cured. So he swung lightly along, stopping at + intervals among the bushes to see if any of the warriors had drawn near, + but he detected nothing. Now and then he looked up to the sky, willing + that night should end this matter quickly and peacefully. + </p> + <p> + His wish seemed near fulfillment. An uncommonly brilliant sun was setting. + The whole west was a sea of red and yellow fire, but in the east the + forest was already sinking into the dark. He turned now, and went back + toward the west on a line parallel with the pursuit, but much closer to + the swamp. The dusk thickened rapidly. The sun dropped over the curve of + the world, and the vast complex maze of trunks and boughs melted into a + solid black wall. The incident of the pursuit was over and with it its + petty annoyances. He directed his course boldly now for the stepping + stones, and traveled fast. Soon the first of them would be less than a + hundred yards away. + </p> + <p> + But the incident was not over. Wary and skillful though the young forest + runner might be, he had made one miscalculation, and it led to great + consequences. As he skirted the edge of the swamp in the darkness, now + fully come, a dusky figure suddenly appeared. It was a stray warrior from + some small band, wandering about at will. The meeting was probably as + little expected by him as it was by Henry, and they were so close together + when they saw each other that neither had time to raise his rifle. The + warrior, a tall, powerful man, dropping his gun and snatching out a knife, + sprang at once upon his enemy. + </p> + <p> + Henry was borne back by the weight and impact, but, making an immense + effort, he recovered himself and, seizing the wrist of the Indian's knife + hand, exerted all his great strength. The warrior wished to change the + weapon from his right band, but he dared not let go with the other lest he + be thrown down at once, and with great violence. His first rush having + failed, he was now at a disadvantage, as the Indian is not generally a + wrestler. Henry pushed him back, and his hand closed tighter and tighter + around the red wrist. He wished to tear the knife from it, but he, too, + was afraid to let go with the other hand, and so the two remained locked + fast. Neither uttered a cry after the first contact, and the only sounds + in the dark were their hard breathing, which turned to a gasp now and + then, and the shuffle of their feet over the earth. + </p> + <p> + Henry felt that it must end soon. One or the other must give way. Their + sinews were already strained to the cracking point, and making a supreme + effort he bore all his weight upon the warrior, who, unable to sustain + himself, went down with the youth upon him. The Indian uttered a groan, + and Henry, leaping instantly to his feet, looked down upon his fallen + antagonist, who did not stir. He knew the cause. As they fell the point of + the knife bad been turned upward, and it had entered the Indian's heart. + </p> + <p> + Although he had been in peril at his hands, Henry looked at the slain man + in a sort of pity. He had not wished to take anyone's life, and, in + reality, he had not been the direct cause of it. But it was a stern time + and the feeling soon passed. The Wyandot, for such he was by his paint, + would never have felt a particle of remorse had the victory been his. + </p> + <p> + The moon was now coming out, and Henry looked down thoughtfully at the + still face. Then the idea came to him, in fact leaped up in his brain, + with such an impulse that it carried conviction. He would take this + warrior's place and go to the Indian camp. So eager was he, and so full of + his plan, that he did not feel any repulsion as he opened the warrior's + deerskin shirt and took his totem from a place near his heart. It was a + little deerskin bag containing a bunch of red feathers. This was his + charm, his magic spell, his bringer of good luck, which had failed him so + woefully this time. Henry, not without a touch of the forest belief, put + it inside his own hunting shirt, wishing, although he laughed at himself, + that if the red man's medicine had any potency it should be on his own + side. + </p> + <p> + Then he found also the little bag in which the Indian carried his war + paint and the feather brush with which he put it on. The next hour + witnessed a singular transformation. A white youth was turned into a red + warrior. He cut his own hair closely, all except a tuft in the center, + with his sharp hunting knife. The tuft and the close crop he stained black + with the Indian's paint. It was a poor black, but he hoped that it would + pass in the night. He drew the tuft into a scalplock, and intertwined it + with a feather from the Indian's own tuft. Then he stained his face, neck, + hands, and arms with the red paint, and stood forth a powerful young + warrior of a western nation. + </p> + <p> + He hid the Indian's weapons and his own raccoon-skin cap in the brush. + Then he took the body of the fallen warrior to the edge of the swamp and + dropped it in. His object was not alone concealment, but burial as well. + He still felt sorry for the unfortunate Wyandot, and he watched him until + he sank completely from sight in the mire. Then he turned away and + traveled a straight course toward the great Indian camp. + </p> + <p> + He stopped once on the way at a clear pool irradiated by the bright + moonlight, and looked attentively at his reflection. By night, at least, + it was certainly that of an Indian, and, summoning all his confidence, he + continued upon his chosen and desperate task. + </p> + <p> + Henry knew that the chances were against him, even with his disguise, but + he was bound to enter the Indian camp, and he was prepared to incur all + risks and to endure all penalties. He even felt a certain lightness of + heart as he hurried on his way, and at length saw through the forest the + flare of light from the Indian camp. + </p> + <p> + He approached cautiously at first in order that he might take a good look + into the camp, and he was surprised at what he saw. In a single day the + village had been enlarged much more. It seemed to him that it contained at + least twice as many warriors. Women and children, too, had come, and he + heard a stray dog barking here and there. Many more fires than usual were + burning, and there was a great murmur of voices. + </p> + <p> + Henry was much taken aback at first. It seemed that he was about to plunge + into the midst of the whole Iroquois nation, and at a time, too, when + something of extreme importance was going on, but a little reflection + showed that he was fortunate. Amid so many people, and so much ferment it + was not at all likely that he would be noticed closely. It was his + intention, if the necessity came, to pass himself off as a warrior of the + Shawnee tribe who had wandered far eastward, but he meant to avoid + sedulously the eye of Timmendiquas, who might, through his size and + stature, divine his identity. + </p> + <p> + As Henry lingered at the edge of the camp, in indecision whether to wait a + little or plunge boldly into the light of the fires, he became aware that + all sounds in the village-for such it was instead of a camp-had ceased + suddenly, except the light tread of feet and the sound of many people + talking low. He saw through the bushes that all the Iroquois, and with + them the detachment of Wyandots under White Lightning, were going toward a + large structure in the center, which he surmised to be the Council House. + He knew from his experience with the Indians farther west that the + Iroquois built such structures. + </p> + <p> + He could no longer doubt that some ceremony of the greatest importance was + about to begin, and, dismissing indecision, he left the bushes and entered + the village, going with the crowd toward the great pole building, which + was, indeed, the Council House. + </p> + <p> + But little attention was paid to Henry. He would have drawn none at all, + had it not been for his height, and when a warrior or two glanced at him + he uttered some words in Shawnee, saying that he had wandered far, and was + glad to come to the hospitable Iroquois. One who could speak a little + Shawnee bade him welcome, and they went on, satisfied, their minds more + intent upon the ceremony than upon a visitor. + </p> + <p> + The Council House, built of light poles and covered with poles and thatch, + was at least sixty feet long and about thirty feet wide, with a large door + on the eastern side, and one or two smaller ones on the other sides. As + Henry arrived, the great chiefs and sub-chiefs of the Iroquois were + entering the building, and about it were grouped many warriors and women, + and even children. But all preserved a decorous solemnity, and, knowing + the customs of the forest people so well, he was sure that the ceremony, + whatever it might be, must be of a highly sacred nature. He himself drew + to one side, keeping as much as possible in the shadow, but he was using + to its utmost power every faculty of observation that Nature had given + him. + </p> + <p> + Many of the fires were still burning, but the moon had come out with great + brightness, throwing a silver light over the whole village, and investing + with attributes that savored of the mystic and impressive this ceremony, + held by a savage but great race here in the depths of the primeval forest. + Henry was about to witness a Condoling Council, which was at once a + mourning for chiefs who had fallen in battle farther east with his own + people and the election and welcome of their successors. + </p> + <p> + The chiefs presently came forth from the Council House or, as it was more + generally called, the Long House, and, despite the greatness of + Thayendanegea, those of the Onondaga tribe, in virtue of their ancient and + undisputed place as the political leaders and high priests of the Six + Nations, led the way. Among the stately Onondaga chiefs were: Atotarho + (The Entangled), Skanawati (Beyond the River), Tehatkahtons (Looking Both + Ways), Tehayatkwarayen (Red Wings), and Hahiron (The Scattered). They were + men of stature and fine countenance, proud of the titular primacy that + belonged to them because it was the Onondaga, Hiawatha, who had formed the + great confederacy more than four hundred years before our day, or just + about the time Columbus was landing on the shores of the New World. + </p> + <p> + Next to the Onondagas came the fierce and warlike Mohawks, who lived + nearest to Albany, who were called Keepers of the Eastern Gate, and who + were fully worthy of their trust. They were content that the Onondagas + should lead in council, so long as they were first in battle, and there + was no jealousy between them. Among their chiefs were Koswensiroutha + (Broad Shoulders) and Satekariwate (Two Things Equal). + </p> + <p> + Third in rank were the Senecas, and among their chiefs were Kanokarih (The + Threatened) and Kanyadariyo (Beautiful Lake). + </p> + <p> + These three, the Onondagas, Mohawks, and Senecas, were esteemed the three + senior nations. After them, in order of precedence, came the chiefs of the + three junior nations, the Oneidas, Cayugas, and Tuscaroras. All of the + great chiefs had assistant chiefs, usually relatives, who, in case of + death, often succeeded to their places. But these assistants now remained + in the crowd with other minor chiefs and the mass of the warriors. A + little apart stood Timmendiquas and his Wyandots. He, too, was absorbed in + the ceremony so sacred to him, an Indian, and he did not notice the tall + figure of the strange Shawnee lingering in the deepest of the shadows. + </p> + <p> + The head chiefs, walking solemnly and never speaking, marched across the + clearing, and then through the woods to a glen, where two young warriors + had kindled a little fire of sticks as a signal of welcome. The chiefs + gathered around the fire and spoke together in low tones. This was + Deyuhnyon Kwarakda, which means “The Reception at the Edge of the Wood.” + </p> + <p> + Henry and some others followed, as it was not forbidden to see, and his + interest increased. He shared the spiritual feeling which was impressed + upon the red faces about him. The bright moonlight, too, added to the + effect, giving it the tinge of an old Druidical ceremony. + </p> + <p> + The chiefs relapsed into silence and sat thus about ten minutes. Then rose + the sound of a chant, distant and measured, and a procession of young and + inferior chiefs, led by Oneidas, appeared, slowly approaching the fire. + Behind them were warriors, and behind the warriors were many women and + children. All the women were in their brightest attire, gay with feather + headdresses and red, blue, or green blankets from the British posts. + </p> + <p> + The procession stopped at a distance of about a dozen yards from the + chiefs about the council fire, and the Oneida, Kathlahon, formed the men + in a line facing the head chiefs, with the women and children grouped in + an irregular mass behind them. The singing meanwhile had stopped. The two + groups stood facing each other, attentive and listening. + </p> + <p> + Then Hahiron, the oldest of the Onondagas, walked back and forth in the + space between the two groups, chanting a welcome. Like all Indian songs it + was monotonous. Every line he uttered with emphasis and a rising + inflection, the phrase “Haih-haih” which may be translated “Hail to thee!” + or better, “All hail!” Nevertheless, under the moonlight in the wilderness + and with rapt faces about him, it was deeply impressive. Henry found it + so. + </p> + <p> + Hahiron finished his round and went back to his place by the fire. + Atotarho, head chief of the Onondagas, holding in his hands beautifully + beaded strings of Iroquois wampum, came forward and made a speech of + condolence, to which Kathlahon responded. Then the head chiefs and the + minor chiefs smoked pipes together, after which the head chiefs, followed + by the minor chiefs, and these in turn by the crowd, led the way back to + the village. + </p> + <p> + Many hundreds of persons were in this procession, which was still very + grave and solemn, every one in it impressed by the sacred nature of this + ancient rite. The chief entered the great door of the Long House, and all + who could find places not reserved followed. Henry went in with the + others, and sat in a corner, making himself as small as possible. Many + women, the place of whom was high among the Iroquois, were also in the + Long House. + </p> + <p> + The head chiefs sat on raised seats at the north end of the great room. In + front of them, on lower seats, were the minor chiefs of the three older + nations on the left, and of the three younger nations on the right. In + front of these, but sitting on the bark floor, was a group of warriors. At + the east end, on both high and low seats, were warriors, and facing them + on the western side were women, also on both high and low seats. The + southern side facing the chiefs was divided into sections, each with high + and low seats. The one on the left was occupied by men, and the one on the + right by women. Two small fires burned in the center of the Long House + about fifteen feet apart. + </p> + <p> + It was the most singular and one of the most impressive scenes that Henry + had ever beheld. When all had found their seats there was a deep silence. + Henry could hear the slight crackling made by the two fires as they + burned, and the light fell faintly across the multitude of dark, eager + faces. Not less than five hundred people were in the Long House, and here + was the red man at his best, the first of the wild, not the second or + third of the civilized, a drop of whose blood in his veins brings to the + white man now a sense of pride, and not of shame, as it does when that + blood belongs to some other races. + </p> + <p> + The effect upon Henry was singular. He almost forgot that he was a foe + among them on a mission. For the moment he shared in their feelings, and + he waited with eagerness for whatever might come. + </p> + <p> + Thayendanegea, the Mohawk, stood up in his place among the great chiefs. + The role he was about to assume belonged to Atotarho, the Onondaga, but + the old Onondaga assigned it for the occasion to Thayendanegea, and there + was no objection. Thayendanegea was an educated man, he had been in + England, he was a member of a Christian church, and he had translated a + part of the Bible from English into his own tongue, but now he was all a + Mohawk, a son of the forest. + </p> + <p> + He spoke to the listening crowd of the glories of the Six Nations, how + Hah-gweh-di-yu (The Spirit of Good) had inspired Hiawatha to form the + Great Confederacy of the Five Nations, afterwards the Six; how they had + held their hunting grounds for nearly two centuries against both English + and French; and how they would hold them against the Americans. He stopped + at moments, and deep murmurs of approval went through the Long House. The + eyes of both men and women flashed as the orator spoke of their glory and + greatness. Timmendiquas, in a place of honor, nodded approval. If he could + he would form such another league in the west. + </p> + <p> + The air in the Long House, breathed by so many, became heated. It seemed + to have in it a touch of fire. The orator's words burned. Swift and deep + impressions were left upon the excited brain. The tall figure of the + Mohawk towered, gigantic, in the half light, and the spell that he threw + over all was complete. + </p> + <p> + He spoke about half an hour, but when he stopped he did not sit down. + Henry knew by the deep breath that ran through the Long House that + something more was coming from Thayendanegea. Suddenly the red chief began + to sing in a deep, vibrant voice, and this was the song that he sung: + </p> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + This was the roll of you, + All hail! All hail! All hail! + + You that joined in the work, + All hail! All hail! All hail! + + You that finished the task, + All hail! All hail! All hail! + + The Great League, + All hail! All hail! All hail! +</pre> + <p> + There was the same incessant repetition of “Haih haih!” that Henry had + noticed in the chant at the edge of the woods, but it seemed to give a + cumulative effect, like the roll of thunder, and at every slight pause + that deep breath of approval ran through the crowd in the Long House. The + effect of the song was indescribable. Fire ran in the veins of all, men, + women, and children. The great pulses in their throats leaped up. They + were the mighty nation, the ever-victorious, the League of the + Ho-de-no-sau-nee, that had held at bay both the French and the English + since first a white man was seen in the land, and that would keep back the + Americans now. + </p> + <p> + Henry glanced at Timmendiquas. The nostrils of the great White Lightning + were twitching. The song reached to the very roots of his being, and + aroused all his powers. Like Thayendanegea, he was a statesman, and he saw + that the Americans were far more formidable to his race than English or + French had ever been. The Americans were upon the ground, and incessantly + pressed upon the red man, eye to eye. Only powerful leagues like those of + the Iroquois could withstand them. + </p> + <p> + Thayendanegea sat down, and then there was another silence, a period + lasting about two minutes. These silences seemed to be a necessary part of + all Iroquois rites. When it closed two young warriors stretched an elm + bark rope across the room from east to west and near the ceiling, but + between the high chiefs and the minor chiefs. Then they hung dressed skins + all along it, until the two grades of chiefs were hidden from the view of + each other. This was the sign of mourning, and was followed by a silence. + The fires in the Long House had died down somewhat, and little was to be + seen but the eyes and general outline of the people. Then a slender man of + middle years, the best singer in all the Iroquois nation, arose and sang: + </p> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + To the great chiefs bring we greeting, + All hail! All hail! All hail! + + To the dead chiefs, kindred greeting, + All hail! All hail! All hail! + + To the strong men 'round him greeting, + All hail! All hail! All hail! + + To the mourning women greeting, + All hail! All hail! All hail! + + There our grandsires' words repeating, + All hail! All hail! All hail! + + Graciously, Oh, grandsires, hear, + All hail! All hail! All hail! +</pre> + <p> + The singing voice was sweet, penetrating, and thrilling, and the song was + sad. At the pauses deep murmurs of sorrow ran through the crowd in the + Long House. Grief for the dead held them all. When he finished, + Satekariwate, the Mohawk, holding in his hands three belts of wampum, + uttered a long historical chant telling of their glorious deeds, to which + they listened patiently. The chant over, he handed the belts to an + attendant, who took them to Thayendanegea, who held them for a few moments + and looked at them gravely. + </p> + <p> + One of the wampum belts was black, the sign of mourning; another was + purple, the sign of war; and the third was white, the sign of peace. They + were beautiful pieces of workmanship, very old. + </p> + <p> + When Hiawatha left the Onondagas and fled to the Mohawks he crossed a lake + supposed to be the Oneida. While paddling along he noticed that man tiny + black, purple, and white shells clung to his paddle. Reaching the shore he + found such shells in long rows upon the beach, and it occurred to him to + use them for the depiction of thought according to color. He strung them + on threads of elm bark, and afterward, when the great league was formed, + the shells were made to represent five clasped hands. For four hundred + years the wampum belts have been sacred among the Iroquois. + </p> + <p> + Now Thayendanegea gave the wampum belts back to the attendant, who + returned them to Satekariwate, the Mohawk. There was a silence once more, + and then the chosen singer began the Consoling Song again, but now he did + not sing it alone. Two hundred male voices joined him, and the time became + faster. Its tone changed from mourning and sorrow to exultation and + menace. Everyone thought of war, the tomahawk, and victory. The song sung + as it was now became a genuine battle song, rousing and thrilling. The + Long House trembled with the mighty chorus, and its volume poured forth + into the encircling dark woods. + </p> + <p> + All the time the song was going on, Satekariwate, the Mohawk, stood + holding the belts in his hand, but when it was over he gave them to an + attendant, who carried them to another head chief. Thayendanegea now went + to the center of the room and, standing between the two fires, asked who + were the candidates for the places of the dead chiefs. + </p> + <p> + The dead chiefs were three, and three tall men, already chosen among their + own tribes, came forward to succeed them. Then a fourth came, and Henry + was startled. It was Timmendiquas, who, as the bravest chief of the brave + Wyandots, was about to become, as a signal tribute, and as a great sign of + friendship, an adopted son and honorary chief of the Mohawks, Keepers of + the Western Gate, and most warlike of all the Iroquois tribes. + </p> + <p> + As Timmendiquas stood before Thayendanegea, a murmur of approval deeper + than any that had gone before ran through all the crowd in the Long House, + and it was deepest on the women's benches, where sat many matrons of the + Iroquois, some of whom were chiefs-a woman could be a chief among the + Iroquois. + </p> + <p> + The candidates were adjudged acceptable by the other chiefs, and + Thayendanegea addressed them on their duties, while they listened in grave + silence. With his address the sacred part of the rite was concluded. + Nothing remained now but the great banquet outside—although that was + much—and they poured forth to it joyously, Thayendanegea, the + Mohawk, and Timmendiquas, the Wyandot, walking side by side, the finest + two red chiefs on all the American continent. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0006" id="link2HCH0006"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER VI. THE EVIL SPIRIT'S WORK + </h2> + <p> + Henry slipped forth with the crowd from the Long House, stooping somewhat + and shrinking into the smallest possible dimensions. But there was little + danger now that any one would notice him, as long as he behaved with + prudence, because all grief and solemnity were thrown aside, and a + thousand red souls intended to rejoice. A vast banquet was arranged. Great + fires leaped up all through the village. At every fire the Indian women, + both young and old, were already far forward with the cooking. Deer, bear, + squirrel, rabbit, fish, and every other variety of game with which the + woods and rivers of western New York and Pennsylvania swarmed were frying + or roasting over the coals, and the air was permeated with savory odors. + There was a great hum of voices and an incessant chattering. Here in the + forest, among themselves, and in complete security, the Indian stoicism + was relaxed. According to their customs everybody fell to eating at a + prodigious rate, as if they had not tasted anything for a month, and as if + they intended to eat enough now to last another month. + </p> + <p> + It was far into the night, because the ceremonies had lasted a long time, + but a brilliant moon shone down upon the feasting crowd, and the flames of + the great fires, yellow and blue, leaped and danced. This was an oasis of + light and life. Timmendiquas and Thayendanegea sat together before the + largest fire, and they ate with more restraint than the others. Even at + the banquet they would not relax their dignity as great chiefs. Old + Skanawati, the Onondaga, old Atotarho, Onondaga, too, Satekariwate, the + Mohawk, Kanokarih, the Seneca, and others, head chiefs though they were of + the three senior tribes, did not hesitate to eat as the rich Romans of the + Empire ate, swallowing immense quantities of all kinds of meat, and + drinking a sort of cider that the women made. Several warriors ate and + drank until they fell down in a stupor by the fires. The same warriors on + the hunt or the war path would go for days without food, enduring every + manner of hardship. Now and then a warrior would leap up and begin a chant + telling of some glorious deed of his. Those at his own fire would listen, + but elsewhere they took no notice. + </p> + <p> + In the largest open space a middle-aged Onondaga with a fine face suddenly + uttered a sharp cry: “Hehmio!” which he rapidly repeated twice. Two score + voices instantly replied, “Heh!” and a rush was made for him. At least a + hundred gathered around him, but they stood in a respectful circle, no one + nearer than ten feet. He waved his hand, and all sat down on the ground. + Then, he, too, sat down, all gazing at him intently and with expectancy. + </p> + <p> + He was a professional story-teller, an institution great and honored among + the tribes of the Iroquois farther back even than Hiawatha. He began at + once the story of the warrior who learned to talk with the deer and the + bear, carrying it on through many chapters. Now and then a delighted + listener would cry “Hah!” but if anyone became bored and fell asleep it + was considered an omen of misfortune to the sleeper, and he was chased + ignominiously to his tepee. The Iroquois romancer was better protected + than the white one is. He could finish some of his stories in one evening, + but others were serials. When he arrived at the end of the night's + installment he would cry, “Si-ga!” which was equivalent to our “To be + continued in our next.” Then all would rise, and if tired would seek + sleep, but if not they would catch the closing part of some other + story-teller's romance. + </p> + <p> + At three fires Senecas were playing a peculiar little wooden flute of + their own invention, that emitted wailing sounds not without a certain + sweetness. In a corner a half dozen warriors hurt in battle were bathing + their wounds with a soothing lotion made from the sap of the bass wood. + </p> + <p> + Henry lingered a while in the darkest corners, witnessing the feasting, + hearing the flutes and the chants, listening for a space to the + story-tellers and the enthusiastic “Hahs!” They were so full of feasting + and merrymaking now that one could almost do as he pleased, and he stole + toward the southern end of the village, where he had noticed several huts, + much more strongly built than the others. Despite all his natural skill + and experience his heart beat very fast when he came to the first. He was + about to achieve the great exploration upon which he had ventured so much. + Whether he would find anything at the end of the risk he ran, he was soon + to see. + </p> + <p> + The hut, about seven feet square and as many feet in height, was built + strongly of poles, with a small entrance closed by a clapboard door + fastened stoutly on the outside with withes. The hut was well in the + shadow of tepees, and all were still at the feasting and merrymaking. He + cut the withes with two sweeps of his sharp hunting knife, opened the + door, bent his head, stepped in and then closed the door behind him, in + order that no Iroquois might see what had happened. + </p> + <p> + It was not wholly dark in the hut, as there were cracks between the poles, + and bars of moonlight entered, falling upon a floor of bark. They revealed + also a figure lying full length on one side of the hut. A great pulse of + joy leaped up in Henry's throat, and with it was a deep pity, also. The + figure was that of Shif'less Sol, but he was pale and thin, and his arms + and legs were securely bound with thongs of deerskin. + </p> + <p> + Leaning over, Henry cut the thongs of the shiftless one, but he did not + stir. Great forester that Shif'less Sol was, and usually so sensitive to + the lightest movement, he perceived nothing now, and, had he not found him + bound, Henry would have been afraid that he was looking upon his dead + comrade. The hands of the shiftless one, when the hands were cut, had + fallen limply by his side, and his face looked all the more pallid by + contrast with the yellow hair which fell in length about it. But it was + his old-time friend, the dauntless Shif'less Sol, the last of the five to + vanish so mysteriously. + </p> + <p> + Henry bent down and pulled him by the shoulder. The captive yawned, + stretched himself a little, and lay still again with closed eyes. Henry + shook him a second time and more violently. Shif'less Sol sat up quickly, + and Henry knew that indignation prompted the movement. Sol held his arms + and legs stiffly and seemed to be totally unconscious that they were + unbound. He cast one glance upward, and in the dim light saw the tall + warrior bending over him. + </p> + <p> + “I'll never do it, Timmendiquas or White Lightning, whichever name you + like better!” he exclaimed. “I won't show you how to surprise the white + settlements. You can burn me at the stake or tear me in pieces first. Now + go away and let me sleep.” + </p> + <p> + He sank back on the bark, and started to close his eyes again. It was then + that he noticed for the first time that his hands were unbound. He held + them up before his face, as if they were strange objects wholly unattached + to himself, and gazed at them in amazement. He moved his legs and saw that + they, too, were unbound. Then he turned his startled gaze upward at the + face of the tall warrior who was looking down at him. Shif'less Sol was + wholly awake now. Every faculty in him was alive, and he pierced through + the Shawnee disguise. He knew who it was. He knew who had come to save + him, and he sprang to his feet, exclaiming the one word: + </p> + <p> + “Henry!” + </p> + <p> + The hands of the comrades met in the clasp of friendship which only many + dangers endured together can give. + </p> + <p> + “How did you get here?” asked the shiftless one in a whisper. + </p> + <p> + “I met an Indian in the forest,” replied Henry, “and well I am now he.” + </p> + <p> + Shif'less Sol laughed under his breath. + </p> + <p> + “I see,” said he, “but how did you get through the camp? It's a big one, + and the Iroquois are watchful. Timmendiquas is here, too, with his + Wyandots.” + </p> + <p> + “They are having a great feast,” replied Henry, “and I could go about + almost unnoticed. Where are the others, Sol?” + </p> + <p> + “In the cabins close by.” + </p> + <p> + “Then we'll get out of this place. Quick! Tie up your hair! In the + darkness you can easily pass for an Indian.” + </p> + <p> + The shiftless one drew his hair into a scalp lock, and the two slipped + from the cabin, closing the door behind them and deftly retying the + thongs, in order that the discovery of the escape might occur as late as + possible. Then they stood a few moments in the shadow of the hut and + listened to the sounds of revelry, the monotone of the story-tellers, and + the chant of the singers. + </p> + <p> + “You don't know which huts they are in, do you?” asked Henry, anxiously. + </p> + <p> + “No, I don't,” replied the shiftless one. + </p> + <p> + “Get back!” exclaimed Henry softly. “Don't you see who's passing out + there?” + </p> + <p> + “Braxton Wyatt,” said Sol. “I'd like to get my hands on that scoundrel. + I've had to stand a lot from him.” + </p> + <p> + “The score must wait. But first we'll provide you with weapons. See, the + Iroquois have stacked some of their rifles here while they're at the + feast.” + </p> + <p> + A dozen good rifles had been left leaning against a hut near by, and + Henry, still watching lest he be observed, chose the best, with its + ammunition, for his comrade, who, owing to his semi-civilized attire, + still remained in the shadow of the other hut. + </p> + <p> + “Why not take four?” whispered the shiftless one. “We'll need them for the + other boys.” + </p> + <p> + Henry took four, giving two to his comrade, and then they hastily slipped + back to the other side of the hut. A Wyandot and a Mohawk were passing, + and they had eyes of hawks. Henry and Sol waited until the formidable pair + were gone, and then began to examine the huts, trying to surmise in which + their comrades lay. + </p> + <p> + “I haven't seen 'em a-tall, a-tall,” said Sol, “but I reckon from the talk + that they are here. I was s'prised in the woods, Henry. A half dozen reds + jumped on me so quick I didn't have time to draw a weepin. Timmendiquas + was at the head uv 'em an' he just grinned. Well, he is a great chief, if + he did truss me up like a fowl. I reckon the same thing happened to the + others.” + </p> + <p> + “Come closer, Sol! Come closer!” whispered Henry. “More warriors are + walking this way. The feast is breaking up, and they'll spread all through + the camp.” + </p> + <p> + A terrible problem was presented to the two. They could no longer search + among the strong huts, for their comrades. The opportunity to save had + lasted long enough for one only. But border training is stern, and these + two had uncommon courage and decision. + </p> + <p> + “We must go now, Sol,” said Henry, “but we'll come back.” + </p> + <p> + “Yes,” said the shiftless one, “we'll come back.” + </p> + <p> + Darting between the huts, they gained the southern edge of the forest + before the satiated banqueters could suspect the presence of an enemy. + Here they felt themselves safe, but they did not pause. Henry led the way, + and Shif'less Sol followed at a fair degree of speed. + </p> + <p> + “You'll have to be patient with me for a little while, Henry,” said Sol in + a tone of humility. “When I wuz layin' thar in the lodge with my hands an' + feet tied I wuz about eighty years old, jest ez stiff ez could be from the + long tyin'. When I reached the edge o' the woods the blood wuz flowin' + lively enough to make me 'bout sixty. Now I reckon I'm fifty, an' ef + things go well I'll be back to my own nateral age in two or three hours.” + </p> + <p> + “You shall have rest before morning,” said Henry, “and it will be in a + good place, too. I can promise that.” + </p> + <p> + Shif'less Sol looked at him inquiringly, but he did not say anything. Like + the rest of the five, Sol had acquired the most implicit confidence in + their bold young leader. He had every reason to feel good. That painful + soreness was disappearing from his ankles. As they advanced through the + woods, weeks dropped from him one by one. Then the months began to roll + away, and at last time fell year by year. As they approached the deeps of + the forest where the swamp lay, Solomon Hyde, the so called shiftless one, + and wholly undeserving of the name, was young again. + </p> + <p> + “I've got a fine little home for us, Sol,” said Henry. “Best we've had + since that time we spent a winter on the island in the lake. This is + littler, but it's harder to find. It'll be a fine thing to know you're + sleeping safe and sound with five hundred Iroquois warriors only a few + miles away.” + </p> + <p> + “Then it'll suit me mighty well,” said Shif'less Sol, grinning broadly. + “That's jest the place fur a lazy man like your humble servant, which is + me.” + </p> + <p> + They reached the stepping stones, and Henry paused a moment. + </p> + <p> + “Do you feel steady enough, Sol, to jump from stone to stone?” he asked. + </p> + <p> + “I'm feelin' so good I could fly ef I had to,” he replied. “Jest you jump + on, Henry, an' fur every jump you take you'll find me only one jump behind + you!” + </p> + <p> + Henry, without further ado, sprang from one stone to another, and behind + him, stone for stone, came the shiftless one. It was now past midnight, + and the moon was obscured. The keenest eyes twenty yards away could not + have seen the two dusky figures as they went by leaps into the very heart + of the great, black swamp. They reached the solid ground, and then the + hut. + </p> + <p> + “Here, Sol,” said Henry, “is my house, and yours, also, and soon, I hope, + to be that of Paul, Tom, and Jim, too.” + </p> + <p> + “Henry,” said Shif'less Sol, “I'm shorely glad to come.” + </p> + <p> + They went inside, stacked their captured rifles against the wall, and soon + were sound asleep. + </p> + <p> + Meanwhile sleep was laying hold of the Iroquois village, also. They had + eaten mightily and they had drunk mightily. Many times had they told the + glories of Hode-no-sau-nee, the Great League, and many times had they + gladly acknowledged the valor and worth of Timmendiquas and the brave + little Wyandot nation. Timmendiquas and Thayendanegea had sat side by side + throughout the feast, but often other great chiefs were with + them-Skanawati, Atotarho, and Hahiron, the Onondagas; Satekariwate, the + Mohawk; Kanokarih and Kanyadoriyo, the Senecas; and many others. + </p> + <p> + Toward midnight the women and the children left for the lodges, and soon + the warriors began to go also, or fell asleep on the ground, wrapped in + their blankets. The fires were allowed to sink low, and at last the older + chiefs withdrew, leaving only Timmendiquas and Thayendanegea. + </p> + <p> + “You have seen the power and spirit of the Iroquois,” said Thayendanegea. + “We can bring many more warriors than are here into the field, and we will + strike the white settlements with you.” + </p> + <p> + “The Wyandots are not so many as the warriors of the Great League,” said + Timmendiquas proudly, “but no one has ever been before them in battle.” + </p> + <p> + “You speak truth, as I have often heard it,” said Thayendanegea + thoughtfully. Then he showed Timmendiquas to a lodge of honor, the finest + in the village, and retired to his own. + </p> + <p> + The great feast was over, but the chiefs had come to a momentous decision. + Still chafing over their defeat at Oriskany, they would make a new and + formidable attack upon the white settlements, and Timmendiquas and his + fierce Wyandots would help them. All of them, from the oldest to the + youngest, rejoiced in the decision, and, not least, the famous + Thayendanegea. He hated the Americans most because they were upon the + soil, and were always pressing forward against the Indian. The Englishmen + were far away, and if they prevailed in the great war, the march of the + American would be less rapid. He would strike once more with the + Englishmen, and the Iroquois could deliver mighty blows on the American + rearguard. He and his Mohawks, proud Keepers of the Western Gate, would + lead in the onset. Thayendanegea considered it a good night's work, and he + slept peacefully. + </p> + <p> + The great camp relapsed into silence. The warriors on the ground breathed + perhaps a little heavily after so much feasting, and the fires were + permitted to smolder down to coals. Wolves and panthers drawn by the scent + of food crept through the thickets toward the faint firelight, but they + were afraid to draw near. Morning came, and food and drink were taken to + the lodges in which four prisoners were held, prisoners of great value, + taken by Timmendiquas and the Wyandots, and held at his urgent insistence + as hostages. + </p> + <p> + Three were found as they had been left, and when their bonds were loosened + they ate and drank, but the fourth hut was empty. The one who spoke in a + slow, drawling way, and the one who seemed to be the most dangerous of + them all, was gone. Henry and Sol had taken the severed thongs with them, + and there was nothing to show how the prisoner had disappeared, except + that the withes fastening the door had been cut. + </p> + <p> + The news spread through the village, and there was much excitement. + Thayendanegea and Timmendiquas came and looked at the empty hut. + Timmendiquas may have suspected how Shif'less Sol had gone, but he said + nothing. Others believed that it was the work of Hahgweh-da-et-gah (The + Spirit of Evil), or perhaps Ga-oh (The Spirit of the Winds) had taken him + away. + </p> + <p> + “It is well to keep a good watch on the others,” said Timmendiquas, and + Thayendanegea nodded. + </p> + <p> + That day the chiefs entered the Long House again, and held a great war + council. A string of white wampum about a foot in length was passed to + every chief, who held it a moment or two before handing it to his + neighbors. It was then laid on a table in the center of the room, the ends + touching. This signified harmony among the Six Nations. All the chiefs had + been summoned to this place by belts of wampum sent to the different + tribes by runners appointed by the Onondagas, to whom this honor belonged. + All treaties had to be ratified by the exchange of belts, and now this was + done by the assembled chiefs. + </p> + <p> + Timmendiquas, as an honorary chief of the Mohawks, and as the real head of + a brave and allied nation, was present throughout the council. His advice + was asked often, and when he gave it the others listened with gravity and + deference. The next day the village played a great game of lacrosse, which + was invented by the Indians, and which had been played by them for + centuries before the arrival of the white man. In this case the match was + on a grand scale, Mohawks and Cayugas against Onondagas and Senecas. + </p> + <p> + The game began about nine o'clock in the morning in a great natural meadow + surrounded by forest. The rival sides assembled opposite each other and + bet heavily. All the stakes, under the law of the game, were laid upon the + ground in heaps here, and they consisted of the articles most precious to + the Iroquois. In these heaps were rifles, tomahawks, scalping knives, + wampum, strips of colored beads, blankets, swords, belts, moccasins, + leggins, and a great many things taken as spoil in forays on the white + settlements, such is small mirrors, brushes of various kinds, boots, + shoes, and other things, the whole making a vast assortment. + </p> + <p> + These heaps represented great wealth to the Iroquois, and the older chiefs + sat beside them in the capacity of stakeholders and judges. + </p> + <p> + The combatants, ranged in two long rows, numbered at least five hundred on + each side, and already they began to show an excitement approaching that + which animated them when they would go into battle. Their eyes glowed, and + the muscles on their naked backs and chests were tense for the spring. In + order to leave their limbs perfectly free for effort they wore no clothing + at all, except a little apron reaching from the waist to the knee. + </p> + <p> + The extent of the playground was marked off by two pair of “byes” like + those used in cricket, planted about thirty rods apart. But the goals of + each side were only about thirty feet apart. + </p> + <p> + At a signal from the oldest of the chiefs the contestants arranged + themselves in two parallel lines facing each other, inside the area and + about ten rods apart. Every man was armed with a strong stick three and a + half to four feet in length, and curving toward the end. Upon this curved + end was tightly fastened a network of thongs of untanned deerskin, drawn + until they were rigid and taut. The ball with which they were to play was + made of closely wrapped elastic skins, and was about the size of an + ordinary apple. + </p> + <p> + At the end of the lines, but about midway between them, sat the chiefs, + who, besides being judges and stakeholders, were also score keepers. They + kept tally of the game by cutting notches upon sticks. Every time one side + put the ball through the other's goal it counted one, but there was an + unusual power exercised by the chiefs, practically unknown to the games of + white men. If one side got too far ahead, its score was cut down at the + discretion of the chiefs in order to keep the game more even, and also to + protract it sometimes over three or four days. The warriors of the leading + side might grumble among one another at the amount of cutting the chiefs + did, but they would not dare to make any protest. However, the chiefs + would never cut the leading side down to an absolute parity with the + other. It was always allowed to retain a margin of the superiority it had + won. + </p> + <p> + The game was now about to begin, and the excitement became intense. Even + the old judges leaned forward in their eagerness, while the brown bodies + of the warriors shone in the sun, and the taut muscles leaped up under the + skin. Fifty players on each side, sticks in hand, advanced to the center + of the ground, and arranged themselves somewhat after the fashion of + football players, to intercept the passage of the ball toward their goals. + Now they awaited the coming of the ball. + </p> + <p> + There were several young girls, the daughters of chiefs. The most + beautiful of these appeared. She was not more than sixteen or seventeen + years of age, as slender and graceful as a young deer, and she was dressed + in the finest and most richly embroidered deerskin. Her head was crowned + with a red coronet, crested with plumes, made of the feathers of the eagle + and heron. She wore silver bracelets and a silver necklace. + </p> + <p> + The girl, bearing in her hand the ball, sprang into the very center of the + arena, where, amid shouts from all the warriors, she placed it upon the + ground. Then she sprang back and joined the throng of spectators. Two of + the players, one from each side, chosen for strength and dexterity, + advanced. They hooked the ball together in their united bats and thus + raised it aloft, until the bats were absolutely perpendicular. Then with a + quick, jerking motion they shot it upward. Much might be gained by this + first shot or stroke, but on this occasion the two players were equal, and + it shot almost absolutely straight into the air. The nearest groups made a + rush for it, and the fray began. + </p> + <p> + Not all played at once, as the crowd was so great, but usually twenty or + thirty on each side struck for the ball, and when they became exhausted or + disabled were relieved by similar groups. All eventually came into action. + </p> + <p> + The game was played with the greatest fire and intensity, assuming + sometimes the aspect of a battle. Blows with the formidable sticks were + given and received. Brown skins were streaked with blood, heads were + cracked, and a Cayuga was killed. Such killings were not unusual in these + games, and it was always considered the fault of the man who fell, due to + his own awkwardness or unwariness. The body of the dead Cayuga was taken + away in disgrace. + </p> + <p> + All day long the contest was waged with undiminished courage and zeal, + party relieving party. The meadow and the surrounding forest resounded + with the shouts and yells of combatants and spectators. The old squaws + were in a perfect frenzy of excitement, and their shrill screams of + applause or condemnation rose above every other sound. + </p> + <p> + On this occasion, as the contest did not last longer than one day, the + chiefs never cut down the score of the leading side. The game closed at + sunset, with the Senecas and Onondagas triumphant, and richer by far than + they were in the morning. The Mohawks and Cayugas retired, stripped of + their goods and crestfallen. + </p> + <p> + Timmendiquas and Thayendanegea, acting as umpires watched the game closely + to its finish, but not so the renegades Braxton Wyatt and Blackstaffe. + They and Quarles had wandered eastward with some Delawares, and had + afterward joined the band of Wyandots, though Timmendiquas gave them no + very warm welcome. Quarles had left on some errand a few days before. They + had rejoiced greatly at the trapping of the four, one by one, in the deep + bush. But they had felt anger and disappointment when the fifth was not + taken, also. Now both were concerned and alarmed over the escape of + Shif'less Sol in the night, and they drew apart from the Indians to + discuss it. + </p> + <p> + “I think,” said Wyatt, “that Hyde did not manage it himself, all alone. + How could he? He was bound both hand and foot; and I've learned, too, + Blackstaffe, that four of the best Iroquois rifles have been taken. That + means one apiece for Hyde and the three prisoners that are left.” + </p> + <p> + The two exchanged looks of meaning and understanding. + </p> + <p> + “It must have been the boy Ware who helped Hyde to get away,” said + Blackstaffe, “and their taking of the rifles means that he and Hyde expect + to rescue the other three in the same way. You think so, too?” + </p> + <p> + “Of course,” replied Wyatt. “What makes the Indians, who are so + wonderfully alert and watchful most of the time, become so careless when + they have a great feast?” + </p> + <p> + Blackstaffe shrugged his shoulders. + </p> + <p> + “It is their way,” he replied. “You cannot change it. Ware must have + noticed what they were about, and he took advantage of it. But I don't + think any of the others will go that way.” + </p> + <p> + “The boy Cotter is in here,” said Braxton Wyatt, tapping the side of a + small hut. “Let's go in and see him.” + </p> + <p> + “Good enough,” said Blackstaffe. “But we mustn't let him know that Hyde + has escaped.” + </p> + <p> + Paul, also bound hand and foot, was lying on an old wolfskin. He, too, was + pale and thin-the strict confinement had told upon him heavily-but Paul's + spirit could never be daunted. He looked at the two renegades with hatred + and contempt. + </p> + <p> + “Well, you're in a fine fix,” said Wyatt sneeringly. “We just came in to + tell you that we took Henry Ware last night.” + </p> + <p> + Paul looked him straight and long in the eye, and he knew that the + renegade was lying. + </p> + <p> + “I know better,” he said. + </p> + <p> + “Then we will get him,” said Wyatt, abandoning the lie, “and all of you + will die at the stake.” + </p> + <p> + “You, will not get him,” said Paul defiantly, “and as for the rest of us + dying at the stake, that's to be seen. I know this: Timmendiquas considers + us of value, to be traded or exchanged, and he's too smart a man to + destroy what he regards as his own property. Besides, we may escape. I + don't want to boast, Braxton Wyatt, but you know that we're hard to hold.” + </p> + <p> + Then Paul managed to turn over with his face to the wall, as if he were + through with them. They went out, and Braxton Wyatt said sulkily: + </p> + <p> + “Nothing to be got out of him.” + </p> + <p> + “No,” said Blackstaffe, “but we must urge that the strictest kind of guard + be kept over the others.” + </p> + <p> + The Iroquois were to remain some time at the village, because all their + forces were not yet gathered for the great foray they had in mind. The + Onondaga runners were still carrying the wampum belts of purple shells, + sign of war, to distant villages of the tribes, and parties of warriors + were still coming in. A band of Cayugas arrived that night, and with them + they brought a half starved and sick, Lenni-Lenape, whom they had picked + up near the camp. The Lenni-Lenape, who looked as if he might have been + when in health a strong and agile warrior, said that news had reached him + through the Wyandots of the great war to be waged by the Iroquois on the + white settlements, and the spirits would not let him rest unless he bore + his part in it. He prayed therefore to be accepted among them. + </p> + <p> + Much food was given to the brave Lenni-Lenape, and he was sent to a lodge + to rest. To-morrow he would be well, and he would be welcomed to the ranks + of the Cayugas, a Younger nation. But when the morning came, the lodge was + empty. The sick Lenni-Lenape was gone, and with him the boy, Paul, the + youngest of the prisoners. Guards bad been posted all around the camp, but + evidently the two had slipped between. Brave and advanced as were the + Iroquois, superstition seized upon them. Hah-gweli-da-et-gah was at work + among them, coming in the form of the famished Lenni-Lenape. He had + steeped them in a deep sleep, and then he had vanished with the prisoner + in Se-oh (The Night). Perhaps lie had taken away the boy, who was one of a + hated race, for some sacrifice or mystery of his own. The fears of the + Iroquois rose. If the Spirit of Evil was among them, greater harm could be + expected. + </p> + <p> + But the two renegades, Blackstaffe and Wyatt, raged. They did not believe + in the interference of either good spirits or bad spirits, and just now + their special hatred was a famished Lenni-Lenape warrior. + </p> + <p> + “Why on earth didn't I think of it?” exclaimed Wyatt. “I'm sure now by his + size that it was the fellow Hyde. Of Course he slipped to the lodge, let + Cotter out, and they dodged about in the darkness until they escaped in + the forest. I'll complain to Timmendiquas.” + </p> + <p> + He was as good as his word, speaking of the laxness of both Iroquois and + Wyandots. The great White Lightning regarded him with an icy stare. + </p> + <p> + “You say that the boy, Cotter, escaped through carelessness?” he asked. + </p> + <p> + “I do,” exclaimed Wyatt. + </p> + <p> + “Then why did you not prevent it?” + </p> + <p> + Wyatt trembled a little before the stern gaze of the chief. + </p> + <p> + “Since when,” continued Timmendiquas, “have you, a deserter front your own + people, had the right to hold to account the head chief of the Wyandots?” + Braxton Wyatt, brave though he undoubtedly was, trembled yet more. He knew + that Timmendiquas did not like him, and that the Wyandot chieftain could + make his position among the Indians precarious. + </p> + <p> + “I did not mean to say that it was the fault of anybody in particular,” he + exclaimed hastily, “but I've been hearing so much talk about the Spirit of + Evil having a hand in this that I couldn't keep front saying something. Of + course, it was Henry Ware and Hyde who did it!” + </p> + <p> + “It may be,” said Timmendiquas icily, “but neither the Manitou of the + Wyandots, nor the Aieroski of the Iroquois has given to me the eyes to see + everything that happens in the dark.” + </p> + <p> + Wyatt withdrew still in a rage, but afraid to say more. He and Blackstaffe + held many conferences through the day, and they longed for the presence of + Simon Girty, who was farther west. + </p> + <p> + That night an Onondaga runner arrived from one of the farthest villages of + the Mohawks, far east toward Albany. He had been sent from a farther + village, and was not known personally to the warriors in the great camp, + but he bore a wampum belt of purple shells, the sign of war, and he + reported directly to Thayendanegea, to whom he brought stirring and + satisfactory words. After ample feasting, as became one who had come so + far, he lay upon soft deerskins in one of the bark huts and sought sleep. + </p> + <p> + But Braxton Wyatt, the renegade, could not sleep. His evil spirit warned + him to rise and go to the huts, where the two remaining prisoners were + kept. It was then about one o'clock in the morning, and as he passed he + saw the Onondaga runner at the door of one of the prison lodges. He was + about to cry out, but the Onondaga turned and struck him such a violent + blow with the butt of a pistol, snatched from under his deerskin tunic, + that he fell senseless. When a Mohawk sentinel found and revived him an + hour later, the door of the hut was open, and the oldest of the prisoners, + the one called Ross, was gone. + </p> + <p> + Now, indeed, were the Iroquois certain that the Spirit of Evil was among + them. When great chiefs like Timmendiquas and Thayendanegea were deceived, + how could a common warrior hope to escape its wicked influence! + </p> + <p> + But Braxton Wyatt, with a sore and aching head, lay all day on a bed of + skins, and his friend, Moses Blackstaffe, could give him no comfort. + </p> + <p> + The following night the camp was swept by a sudden and tremendous storm of + thunder and lightning, wind and rain. Many of the lodges were thrown down, + and when the storm finally whirled itself away, it was found that the last + of the prisoners, he of the long arms and long legs, had gone on the edge + of the blast. + </p> + <p> + Truly the Evil Spirit had been hovering over the Iroquois village. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0007" id="link2HCH0007"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER VII. CATHARINE MONTOUR + </h2> + <p> + The five lay deep in the swamp, reunited once more, and full of content. + The great storm in which Long Jim, with the aid of his comrades, had + disappeared, was whirling off to the eastward. The lightning was flaring + its last on the distant horizon, but the rain still pattered in the great + woods. + </p> + <p> + It was a small hut, but the five could squeeze in it. They were dry, warm, + and well armed, and they had no fear of the storm and the wilderness. The + four after their imprisonment and privations were recovering their weight + and color. Paul, who had suffered the most, had, on the other hand, made + the quickest recovery, and their present situation, so fortunate in + contrast with their threatened fate a few days before, made a great appeal + to his imagination. The door was allowed to stand open six inches, and + through the crevice he watched the rain pattering on the dark earth. He + felt an immense sense of security and comfort. Paul was hopeful by nature + and full of courage, but when he lay bound and alone in a hut in the + Iroquois camp it seemed to him that no chance was left. The comrades had + been kept separate, and he had supposed the others to be dead. But here he + was snatched from the very pit of death, and all the others had been saved + from a like fate. + </p> + <p> + “If I'd known that you were alive and uncaptured, Henry,” he said, “I'd + never have given up hope. It was a wonderful thing you did to start the + chain that drew us all away.” + </p> + <p> + “It's no more than Sol or Tom or any of you would have done,” said Henry. + </p> + <p> + “We might have tried it,” said Long Jim Hart, “but I ain't sure that we'd + have done it. Likely ez not, ef it had been left to me my scalp would be + dryin' somewhat in the breeze that fans a Mohawk village. Say, Sol, how + wuz it that you talked Onondaga when you played the part uv that Onondaga + runner. Didn't know you knowed that kind uv Injun lingo.” + </p> + <p> + Shif'less Sol drew himself up proudly, and then passed a thoughtful hand + once or twice across his forehead. + </p> + <p> + “Jim,” he said, “I've told you often that Paul an' me hez the instincts uv + the eddicated. Learnin' always takes a mighty strong hold on me. Ef I'd + had the chance, I might be a purfessor, or mebbe I'd be writin' poetry. I + ain't told you about it, but when I wuz a young boy, afore I moved with + the settlers, I wuz up in these parts an' I learned to talk Iroquois a + heap. I never thought it would be the use to me it hez been now. Ain't it + funny that sometimes when you put a thing away an' it gits all covered + with rust and mold, the time comes when that same forgot little thing is + the most vallyble article in the world to you.” + </p> + <p> + “Weren't you scared, Sol,” persisted Paul, “to face a man like Brant, an' + pass yourself off as an Onondaga?” + </p> + <p> + “No, I wuzn't,” replied the shiftless one thoughtfully, “I've been wuss + scared over little things. I guess that when your life depends on jest a + motion o' your hand or the turnin' o' a word, Natur' somehow comes to your + help an' holds you up. I didn't get good an' skeered till it wuz all over, + an' then I had one fit right after another.” + </p> + <p> + “I've been skeered fur a week without stoppin',” said Tom Ross; “jest + beginnin' to git over it. I tell you, Henry, it wuz pow'ful lucky fur us + you found them steppin' stones, an' this solid little place in the middle + uv all that black mud.” + </p> + <p> + “Makes me think uv the time we spent the winter on that island in the + lake,” said Long Jim. “That waz shorely a nice place an' pow'ful + comf'table we wuz thar. But we're a long way from it now. That island uv + ours must be seven or eight hundred miles from here, an' I reckon it's + nigh to fifteen hundred to New Orleans, whar we wuz once.” + </p> + <p> + “Shet up,” said Tom Ross suddenly. “Time fur all uv you to go to sleep, + an' I'm goin' to watch.” + </p> + <p> + “I'll watch,” said Henry. + </p> + <p> + “I'm the oldest, an' I'm goin' to have my way this time,” said Tom. + </p> + <p> + “Needn't quarrel with me about it,” said Shif'less Sol. “A lazy man like + me is always willin' to go to sleep. You kin hev my watch, Tom, every + night fur the next five years.” + </p> + <p> + He ranged himself against the wall, and in three minutes was sound asleep. + Henry and Paul found room in the line, and they, too, soon slept. Tom sat + at the door, one of the captured rifles across his knees, and watched the + forest and the swamp. He saw the last flare of the distant lightning, and + he listened to the falling of the rain drops until they vanished with the + vanishing wind, leaving the forest still and without noise. + </p> + <p> + Tom was several years older than any of the others, and, although powerful + in action, he was singularly chary of speech. Henry was the leader, but + somehow Tom looked upon himself as a watcher over the other four, a sort + of elder brother. As the moon came out a little in the wake of the + retreating clouds, he regarded them affectionately. + </p> + <p> + “One, two, three, four, five,” he murmured to himself. “We're all here, + an' Henry come fur us. That is shorely the greatest boy the world hez ever + seed. Them fellers Alexander an' Hannibal that Paul talks about couldn't + hev been knee high to Henry. Besides, ef them old Greeks an' Romans hed + hed to fight Wyandots an' Shawnees an' Iroquois ez we've done, whar'd they + hev been?” + </p> + <p> + Tom Ross uttered a contemptuous little sniff, and on the edge of that + sniff Alexander and Hannibal were wafted into oblivion. Then he went + outside and walked about the islet, appreciating for the tenth time what a + wonderful little refuge it was. He was about to return to the hut when he + saw a dozen dark blots along the high bough of a tree. He knew them. They + were welcome blots. They were wild turkeys that had found what had seemed + to be a secure roosting place in the swamp. + </p> + <p> + Tom knew that the meat of the little bear was nearly exhausted, and here + was more food come to their hand. “We're five pow'ful feeders, an' we'll + need you,” he murmured, looking up at the turkeys, “but you kin rest thar + till nearly mornin'.” + </p> + <p> + He knew that the turkeys would not stir, and he went back to the hut to + resume his watch. Just before the first dawn he awoke Henry. + </p> + <p> + “Henry,” he said, “a lot uv foolish wild turkeys hev gone to rest on the + limb of a tree not twenty yards from this grand manshun uv ourn. 'Pears to + me that wild turkeys wuz made fur hungry fellers like us to eat. Kin we + risk a shot or two at 'em, or is it too dangerous?” + </p> + <p> + “I think we can risk the shots,” said Henry, rising and taking his rifle. + “We're bound to risk something, and it's not likely that Indians are + anywhere near.” + </p> + <p> + They slipped from the cabin, leaving the other three still sound asleep, + and stepped noiselessly among the trees. The first pale gray bar that + heralded the dawn was just showing in the cast. + </p> + <p> + “Thar they are,” said Tom Ross, pointing at the dozen dark blots on the + high bough. + </p> + <p> + “We'll take good aim, and when I say 'fire!' we'll both pull trigger,” + said Henry. + </p> + <p> + He picked out a huge bird near the end of the line, but he noticed when he + drew the bead that a second turkey just behind the first was directly in + his line of fire. The fact aroused his ambition to kill both with one + bullet. It was not a mere desire to slaughter or to display marksmanship, + but they needed the extra turkey for food. + </p> + <p> + “Are you ready, Tom?” he asked. “Then fire.” + </p> + <p> + They pulled triggers, there were two sharp reports terribly loud to both + under the circumstances, and three of the biggest and fattest of the + turkeys fell heavily to the ground, while the rest flapped their wings, + and with frightened gobbles flew away. + </p> + <p> + Henry was about to rush forward, but Silent Tom held him back. + </p> + <p> + “Don't show yourself, Henry! Don't show yourself!” he cried in tense + tones. + </p> + <p> + “Why, what's the matter?” asked the boy in surprise. + </p> + <p> + “Don't you see that three turkeys fell, and we are only two to shoot? An + Injun is layin' 'roun' here some whar, an' he drawed a bead on one uv them + turkeys at the same time we did.” + </p> + <p> + Henry laughed and put away Tom's detaining hand. + </p> + <p> + “There's no Indian about,” he said. “I killed two turkeys with one shot, + and I'm mighty proud of it, too. I saw that they were directly in the line + of the bullet, and it went through both.” + </p> + <p> + Silent Tom heaved a mighty sigh of relief, drawn up from great depths. + </p> + <p> + “I'm tre-men-jeous-ly glad uv that, Henry,” he said. “Now when I saw that + third turkey come tumblin' down I wuz shore that one Injun or mebbe more + had got on this snug little place uv ourn in the swamp, an' that we'd hev + to go to fightin' ag'in. Thar come times, Henry, when my mind just + natchally rises up an' rebels ag'in fightin', 'specially when I want to + eat or sleep. Ain't thar anythin' else but fight, fight, fight, 'though I + 'low a feller hez got to expect a lot uv it out here in the woods?” + </p> + <p> + They picked up the three turkeys, two gobblers and a hen, and found them + large and fat as butter. More than once the wild turkey had come to their + relief, and, in fact, this bird played a great part in the life of the + frontier, wherever that frontier might be, as it shifted steadily + westward. As they walked back toward the hut they faced three figures, all + three with leveled rifles. + </p> + <p> + “All right, boys,” sang out Henry. “It's nobody but Tom and myself, + bringing in our breakfast.” + </p> + <p> + The three dropped their rifles. + </p> + <p> + “That's good,” said Shif'less Sol. “When them shots roused us out o' our + beauty sleep we thought the whole Iroquois nation, horse, foot, artillery + an' baggage wagons, wuz comin' down upon us. So we reckoned we'd better go + out an' lick 'em afore it wuz too late. + </p> + <p> + “But it's you, an' you've got turkeys, nothin' but turkeys. Sho' I + reckoned from the peart way Long Jim spoke up that you wuz loaded down + with hummin' birds' tongues, ortylans, an' all them other Roman and + Rooshian delicacies Paul talks about in a way to make your mouth water. + But turkeys! jest turkeys! Nothin' but turkeys!” + </p> + <p> + “You jest wait till you see me cookin' 'em, Sol Hyde,” said Long Jim. + “Then your mouth'll water, an' it'll take Henry and Tom both to hold you + back.” + </p> + <p> + But Shif'less Sol's mouth was watering already, and his eyes were glued on + the turkeys. + </p> + <p> + “I'm a pow'ful lazy man, ez you know, Saplin',” he said, “but I'm goin' to + help you pick them turkeys an' get 'em ready for the coals. The quicker + they are cooked the better it'll suit me.” + </p> + <p> + While they were cooking the turkeys, Henry, a little anxious lest the + sound of the shots had been heard, crossed on the stepping stones and + scouted a bit in the woods. But there was no sign of Indian presence, and, + relieved, he returned to the islet just as breakfast was ready. + </p> + <p> + Long Jim had exerted all his surpassing skill, and it was a contented five + that worked on one of the turkeys—the other two being saved for + further needs. + </p> + <p> + “What's goin' to be the next thing in the line of our duty, Henry?” asked + Long Jim as they ate. + </p> + <p> + “We'll have plenty to do, from all that Sol tells us,” replied the boy. + “It seems that they felt so sure of you, while you were prisoners, that + they often talked about their plans where you could hear them. Sol has + told me of two or three talks between Timmendiquas and Thayendanegea, and + from the last one he gathered that they're intending a raid with a big + army against a place called Wyoming, in the valley of a river named the + Susquehanna. It's a big settlement, scattered all along the river, and + they expect to take a lot of scalps. They're going to be helped by British + from Canada and Tories. Boys, we're a long way from home, but shall we go + and tell them in Wyoming what's coming?” + </p> + <p> + “Of course,” said the four together. + </p> + <p> + “Our bein' a long way from home don't make any difference,” said Shif'less + Sol. “We're generally a long way from home, an' you know we sent word back + from Pittsburgh to Wareville that we wuz stayin' a while here in the east + on mighty important business.” + </p> + <p> + “Then we go to the Wyoming Valley as straight and as fast as we can,” said + Henry. “That's settled. What else did you bear about their plans, Sol?” + </p> + <p> + “They're to break up the village here soon and then they'll march to a + place called Tioga. The white men an' I hear that's to be a lot uv + 'em-will join 'em thar or sooner. They've sent chiefs all the way to our + Congress at Philydelphy, pretendin' peace, an' then, when they git our + people to thinkin' peace, they'll jump on our settlements, the whole + ragin' army uv 'em, with tomahawk an' knife. A white man named John Butler + is to command 'em.” + </p> + <p> + Paul shuddered. + </p> + <p> + “I've heard of him,” he said. “They called him 'Indian' Butler at + Pittsburgh. He helped lead the Indians in that terrible battle of the + Oriskany last year. And they say he's got a son, Walter Butler, who is as + bad as he is, and there are other white leaders of the Indians, the + Johnsons and Claus.” + </p> + <p> + “'Pears ez ef we would be needed,” said Tom Ross. + </p> + <p> + “I don't think we ought to hurry,” said Henry. “The more we know about the + Indian plans the better it will be for the Wyoming people. We've a safe + and comfortable hiding place here, and we can stay and watch the Indian + movements.” + </p> + <p> + “Suits me,” drawled Shif'less Sol. “My legs an' arms are still stiff from + them deerskin thongs an' ez Long Jim is here now to wait on me I guess + I'll take a rest from travelin.” + </p> + <p> + “You'll do all your own waitin' on yourself,” rejoined Long Jim; “an' I'm + afraid you won't be waited on so Pow'ful well, either, but a good deal + better than you deserve.” + </p> + <p> + They lay on the islet several days, meanwhile keeping a close watch on the + Indian camp. They really had little to fear except from hunting parties, + as the region was far from any settled portion of the country, and the + Indians were not likely to suspect their continued presence. But the + hunters were numerous, and all the squaws in the camp were busy jerking + meat. It was obvious that the Indians were preparing for a great campaign, + but that they would take their own time. Most of the scouting was done by + Henry and Sol, and several times they lay in the thick brushwood and + watched, by the light of the fires, what was passing in the Indian camp. + </p> + <p> + On the fifth night after the rescue of Long Jim, Henry and Shif'less Sol + lay in the covert. It was nearly midnight, but the fires still burned in + the Indian camp, warriors were polishing their weapons, and the women were + cutting up or jerking meat. While they were watching they heard from a + point to the north the sound of a voice rising and failing in a kind of + chant. + </p> + <p> + “Another war party comin',” whispered Shif'less Sol, “an' singin' about + the victories that they're goin' to win.” + </p> + <p> + “But did you notice that voice?” Henry whispered back. “It's not a man's, + it's a woman's.” + </p> + <p> + “Now that you speak of it, you're right,” said Shif'less Sol. “It's funny + to hear an Injun woman chantin' about battles as she comes into camp. + That's the business o' warriors.” + </p> + <p> + “Then this is no ordinary woman,” said Henry. + </p> + <p> + “They'll pass along that trail there within twenty yards of us, Sol, and + we want to see her.” + </p> + <p> + “So we do,” said Sol, “but I ain't breathin' while they pass.” + </p> + <p> + They flattened themselves against the earth until the keenest eye could + not see them in the darkness. All the time the singing was growing louder, + and both remained, quite sure that it was the voice of a woman. The trail + was but a short distance away, and the moon was bright. The fierce Indian + chant swelled, and presently the most singular figure that either had ever + seen came into view. + </p> + <p> + The figure was that of an Indian woman, but lighter in color than most of + her kind. She was middle-aged, tall, heavily built, and arrayed in a + strange mixture of civilized and barbaric finery, deerskin leggins and + moccasins gorgeously ornamented with heads, a red dress of European cloth + with a red shawl over it, and her head bare except for bright feathers, + thrust in her long black hair, which hung loosely down her back. She held + in one hand a large sharp tomahawk, which she swung fiercely in time to + her song. Her face had the rapt, terrible expression of one who had taken + some fiery and powerful drug, and she looked neither to right nor to left + as she strode on, chanting a song of blood, and swinging the keen blade. + </p> + <p> + Henry and Shif'less Sol shuddered. They had looked upon terrible human + figures, but nothing so frightful as this, a woman with the strength of a + man and twice his rage and cruelty. There was something weird and awful in + the look of that set, savage face, and the tone of that Indian chant. + Brave as they were, Henry and the shiftless one felt fear, as perhaps they + had never felt it before in their lives. Well they might! They were + destined to behold this woman again, under conditions the most awful of + which the human mind can conceive, and to witness savagery almost + unbelievable in either man or woman. The two did not yet know it, but they + were looking upon Catharine Montour, daughter of a French Governor General + of Canada and an Indian woman, a chieftainess of the Iroquois, and of a + memory infamous forever on the border, where she was known as “Queen + Esther.” + </p> + <p> + Shif'less Sol shuddered again, and whispered to Henry: + </p> + <p> + “I didn't think such women ever lived, even among the Indians.” + </p> + <p> + A dozen warriors followed Queen Esther, stepping in single file, and their + manner showed that they acknowledged her their leader in every sense. She + was truly an extraordinary woman. Not even the great Thayendanegea himself + wielded a stronger influence among the Iroquois. In her youth she had been + treated as a white woman, educated and dressed as a white woman, and she + had played a part in colonial society at Albany, New York, and + Philadelphia. But of her own accord she had turned toward the savage half + of herself, had become wholly a savage, had married a savage chief, bad + been the mother of savage children, and here she was, at midnight, + striding into an Iroquois camp in the wilderness, her head aflame with + visions of blood, death, and scalps. + </p> + <p> + The procession passed with the terrifying female figure still leading, + still singing her chant, and the curiosity of Henry and Shif'less Sol was + so intense that, taking all risks, they slipped along in the rear to see + her entry. + </p> + <p> + Queen Esther strode into the lighted area of the camp, ceased her chant, + and looked around, as if a queen had truly come and was waiting to be + welcomed by her subjects. Thayendanegea, who evidently expected her, + stepped forward and gave her the Indian salute. It may be that he received + her with mild enthusiasm. Timmendiquas, a Wyandot and a guest, though an + ally, would not dispute with him his place as real head of the Six + Nations, but this terrible woman was his match, and could inflame the + Iroquois to almost anything that she wished. + </p> + <p> + After the arrival of Queen Esther the lights in the Iroquois village died + down. It was evident to both Henry and the shiftless one that they had + been kept burning solely in the expectation of the coming of this + formidable woman and her escort. It was obvious that nothing more was to + be seen that night, and they withdrew swiftly through the forest toward + their islet. They stopped once in an oak opening, and Shif'less Sol + shivered slightly. + </p> + <p> + “Henry,” he said, “I feel all through me that somethin' terrible is + comin'. That woman back thar has clean give me the shivers. I'm more + afraid of her than I am of Timmendiquas or Thayendanegea. Do you think she + is a witch?” + </p> + <p> + “There are no such things as witches, but she was uncanny. I'm afraid, + Sol, that your feeling about something terrible going to happen is right.” + </p> + <p> + It was about two o'clock in the morning when they reached the islet. Tom + Ross was awake, but the other two slumbered peacefully on. They told Tom + what they had seen, and he told them the identity of the terrible woman. + </p> + <p> + “I heard about her at Pittsburgh, an' I've heard tell, too, about her + afore I went to Kentucky to live. She's got a tre-men-jeous power over the + Iroquois. They think she ken throw spells, an' all that sort of thing-an' + mebbe she kin.” + </p> + <p> + Two nights later it was Henry and Tom who lay in the thickets, and then + they saw other formidable arrivals in the Indian camp. Now they were white + men, an entire company in green uniforms, Sir John Johnson's Royal Greens, + as Henry afterward learned; and with them was the infamous John Butler, or + “Indian” Butler, as he was generally known on the New York and + Pennsylvania frontier, middle-aged, short and fat, and insignificant of + appearance, but energetic, savage and cruel in nature. He was a descendant + of the Duke of Ormond, and had commanded the Indians at the terrible + battle of the Oriskany, preceding Burgoyne's capture the year before. + </p> + <p> + Henry and Tom were distant spectators at an extraordinary council around + one of the fires. In this group were Timmendiquas, Thayendanegea, Queen + Esther, high chiefs of the distant nations, and the white men, John + Butler, Moses Blackstaffe, and the boy, Braxton Wyatt. It seemed to Henry + that Timmendiquas, King of the Wyandots, was superior to all the other + chiefs present, even to Thayendanegea. His expression was nobler than that + of the great Mohawk, and it had less of the Indian cruelty. + </p> + <p> + Henry and Tom could not hear 'anything that was said, but they felt sure + the Iroquois were about to break up their village and march on the great + campaign they had planned. The two and their comrades could render no + greater service than to watch their march, and then warn those upon whom + the blow was to fall. + </p> + <p> + The five left their hut on the islet early the next morning, well equipped + with provisions, and that day they saw the Iroquois dismantle their + village, all except the Long House and two or three other of the more + solid structures, and begin the march. Henry and his comrades went + parallel with them, watching their movements as closely as possible. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0008" id="link2HCH0008"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER VIII. A CHANGE OF TENANTS + </h2> + <p> + The five were engaged upon one of their most dangerous tasks, to keep with + the Indian army, and yet to keep out of its hands, to observe what was + going on, and to divine what was intended from what they observed. + Fortunately it, was early summer, and the weather being very beautiful + they could sleep without shelter. Hence they found it convenient to sleep + sometimes by daylight, posting a watch always, and to spy upon the Indian + camp at night. They saw other reinforcements come for the Indian army, + particularly a strong division of Senecas, under two great war chiefs of + theirs, Sangerachte and Hiokatoo, and also a body of Tories. + </p> + <p> + Then they saw them go into their last great camp at Tioga, preparatory to + their swift descent upon the Wyoming Valley. About four hundred white men, + English Canadians and Tories, were present, and eight hundred picked + warriors of the Six Nations under Thayendanegea, besides the little band + of Wyandots led by the resolute Timmendiquas. “Indian” Butler was in + general command of the whole, and Queen Esther was the high priestess of + the Indians, continually making fiery speeches and chanting songs that + made the warriors see red. Upon the rear of this extraordinary army hung a + band of fierce old squaws, from whom every remnant of mercy and Gentleness + had departed. + </p> + <p> + From a high rock overlooking a valley the five saw “Indian” Butler's force + start for its final march upon Wyoming. It was composed of many diverse + elements, and perhaps none more bloodthirsty ever trod the soil of + America. In some preliminary skirmish a son of Queen Esther had been + slain, and now her fury knew no limits. She took her place at the very + head of the army, whirling her great tomahawk about her head, and neither + “Indian” Butler nor Thayendanegea dared to interfere with her in anything + great or small. + </p> + <p> + Henry and his comrades, as they left their rock and hastened toward the + valley of Wyoming, felt that now they were coming into contact with the + great war itself. They had looked upon a uniformed enemy for the first + time, and they might soon see the colonial buff and blue of the eastern + army. Their hearts thrilled high at new scenes and new dangers. + </p> + <p> + They had gathered at Pittsburgh, and, through the captivity of the four in + the Iroquois camp, they had some general idea of the Wyoming Valley and + the direction in which it lay, and, taking one last look at the savage + army, they sped toward it. The time was the close, of June, and the + foliage was still dark green. It was a land of low mountain, hill, rich + valley, and clear stream, and it was beautiful to every one of the five. + Much of their course lay along the Susquehanna, and soon they saw signs of + a more extended cultivation than any that was yet to be witnessed in + Kentucky. From the brow of a little hill they beheld a field of green, and + in another field a man plowing. + </p> + <p> + “That's wheat,” said Tom Ross. + </p> + <p> + “But we can't leave the man to plow,” said Henry, “or he'll never harvest + that wheat. We'll warn him.” + </p> + <p> + The man uttered a cry of alarm as five wild figures burst into his field. + He stopped abruptly, and snatched up a rifle that lay across the plow + handles. Neither Henry nor his companions realized that their forest garb + and long life in the wilderness made them look more like Indians than + white men. But Henry threw up a hand as a sign of peace. + </p> + <p> + “We're white like yourselves,” he cried, “and we've come to warn you! The + Iroquois and the Tories are marching into the valley!” + </p> + <p> + The man's face blanched, and he cast a hasty look toward a little wood, + where stood a cabin from which smoke was rising. He could not doubt on a + near view that these were white like himself, and the words rang true. + </p> + <p> + “My house is strong,” he said, “and I can beat them off. Maybe you will + help me.” + </p> + <p> + “We'd help you willingly enough,” said Henry, “if this were any ordinary + raiding band, but 'Indian' Butler, Brant, and Queen Esther are coming at + the head of twelve or fifteen hundred men. How could we hold a house, no + matter how thick its walls, against such an army as that? Don't hesitate a + moment! Get up what you can and gallop.” + </p> + <p> + The man, a Connecticut settler-Jennings was his name-left his plow in the + furrow, galloped on his horse to his house, mounted his wife and children + on other horses, and, taking only food and clothing, fled to Stroudsburg, + where there was a strong fort. At a later day he gave Henry heartfelt + thanks for his warning, as six hours afterward the vanguard of the horde + burned his home and raged because its owner and his family were gone with + their scalps on their own heads. + </p> + <p> + The five were now well into the Wyoming Valley, where the Lenni-Lenape, + until they were pushed westward by other tribes, had had their village + Wy-wa-mieh, which means in their language Wyoming. It was a beautiful + valley running twenty miles or more along the Susquehanna, and about three + miles broad. On either side rose mountain walls a thousand feet in height, + and further away were peaks with mists and vapors around their crests. The + valley itself blazed in the summer sunshine, and the river sparkled, now + in gold, now in silver, as the light changed and fell. + </p> + <p> + More cultivated fields, more houses, generally of stout logs, appeared, + and to all that they saw the five bore the fiery beacon. Simon Jennings + was not the only man who lived to thank them for the warning. Others were + incredulous, and soon paid the terrible price of unbelief. + </p> + <p> + The five hastened on, and as they went they looked about them with + wondering eyes-there were so many houses, so many cultivated fields, and + so many signs of a numerous population. They had emerged almost for the + first time from the wilderness, excepting their memorable visit to New + Orleans, although this was a very different region. Long Jim spoke of it. + </p> + <p> + “I think I like it better here than at New Or-leeyuns,” he said. “We found + some nice Frenchmen an' Spaniards down thar, but the ground feels firmer + under my feet here.” + </p> + <p> + “The ground feels firmer,” said Paul, who had some of the prescience of + the seer, “but the skies are no brighter. They look red to me sometimes, + Jim.” + </p> + <p> + Tom Ross glanced at Paul and shook his head ominously. A woodsman, he had + his superstitions, and Paul's words weighed upon his mind. He began to + fear a great disaster, and his experienced eye perceived at once the + defenseless state of the valley. He remembered the council of the great + Indian force in the deep woods, and the terrible face of Queen Esther was + again before him. + </p> + <p> + “These people ought to be in blockhouses, every one uv 'em,” he said. “It + ain't no time to be plowin' land.” + </p> + <p> + Yet peace seemed to brood still over the valley. It was a fine river, + beautiful with changing colors. The soil on either side was as deep and + fertile as that of Kentucky, and the line of the mountains cut the sky + sharp and clear. Hills and slopes were dark green with foliage. + </p> + <p> + “It must have been a gran' huntin' ground once,” said Shif'less Sol. + </p> + <p> + The alarm that the five gave spread fast, and other hunters and scouts + came in, confirming it. Panic seized the settlers, and they began to crowd + toward Forty Fort on the west side of the river. Henry and his comrades + themselves arrived there toward the close of evening, just as the sun had + set, blood red, behind the mountains. Some report of them had preceded + their coming, and as soon as they had eaten they were summoned to the + presence of Colonel Zebulon Butler, who commanded the military force in + the valley. Singularly enough, he was a cousin of “Indian” Butler, who led + the invading army. + </p> + <p> + The five, dressed in deerskin hunting shirts, leggins, and moccasins, and + everyone carrying a rifle, hatchet, and knife, entered a large low room, + dimly lighted by some wicks burning in tallow. A man of middle years, with + a keen New England face, sat at a little table, and several others of + varying ages stood near. + </p> + <p> + The five knew instinctively that the man at the table was Colonel Butler, + and they bowed, but they did not show the faintest trace of subservience. + They had caught suspicious glances from some of the officers who stood + about the commander, and they stiffened at once. Colonel Butler looked + involuntarily at Henry-everybody always took him, without the telling, for + leader of the group. + </p> + <p> + “We have had report of you,” he said in cool noncommittal tones, “and you + have been telling of great Indian councils that you have seen in the + woods. May I ask your name and where you belong?” + </p> + <p> + “My name,” replied Henry with dignity, “is Henry Ware, and I come from + Kentucky. My friends here are Paul Cotter, Solomon Hyde, Tom Ross, and Jim + Hart. They, too, come from Kentucky.” + </p> + <p> + Several of the men gave the five suspicious glances. Certainly they were + wild enough in appearance, and Kentucky was far away. It would seem + strange that new settlers in that far land should be here in Pennsylvania. + Henry saw clearly that his story was doubted. + </p> + <p> + “Kentucky, you tell me?” said Colonel Butler. “Do you mean to say you have + come all that tremendous distance to warn us of an attack by Indians and + Tories?” + </p> + <p> + Several of the others murmured approval, and Henry flushed a little, but + he saw that the commander was not unreasonable. It was a time when men + might well question the words of strangers. Remembering this, he replied: + </p> + <p> + “No, we did not come from Kentucky just to warn you. In fact, we came from + a point much farther than that. We came from New Orleans to Pittsburgh + with a fleet loaded with supplies for the Continental armies, and + commanded by Adam Colfax of New Hampshire.” + </p> + <p> + The face of Colonel Butler brightened. + </p> + <p> + “What!” he exclaimed, “you were on that expedition? It seems to me that I + recall hearing of great services rendered to it by some independent + scouts.” + </p> + <p> + “When we reached Pittsburgh,” continued Henry, “it was our first intention + to go back to Kentucky, but we heard that a great war movement was in + progress to the eastward, and we thought that we would see what was going + on. Four of us have been captives among the Iroquois. We know much of + their plans, and we know, too, that Timmendiquas, the great chief of the + Wyandots, whom we fought along the Ohio, has joined them with a hand of + his best warriors. We have also seen Thayendanegea, every one of us.” + </p> + <p> + “You have seen Brant?” exclaimed Colonel Butler, calling the great Mohawk + by his white name. + </p> + <p> + “Yes,” replied Henry. “We have seen him, and we have also seen the woman + they call Queen Esther. She is continually urging the Indians on.” + </p> + <p> + Colonel Butler seemed convinced, and invited them to sit down. He also + introduced the officers who were with him, Colonel John Durkee, Colonel + Nathan Dennison, Lieutenant Colonel George Dorrance, Major John Garrett, + Captain Samuel Ransom, Captain Dethrie Hewitt, and some others. + </p> + <p> + “Now, gentlemen, tell us all that you saw,” continued Colonel Butler + courteously. “You will pardon so many questions, but we must be careful. + You will see that yourselves. But I am a New England man myself, from + Connecticut, and I have met Adam Colfax. I recall now that we have heard + of you, also, and we are grateful for your coming. Will you and your + comrades tell us all that you have seen and heard?” + </p> + <p> + The five felt a decided change in the atmosphere. They were no longer + possible Tories or renegades, bringing an alarm at one point when it + should be dreaded at another. The men drew closely around them, and + listened as the tallow wicks sputtered in the dim room. Henry spoke first, + and the others in their turn. Every one of them spoke tersely but vividly + in the language of the forest. They felt deeply what they had seen, and + they drew the same picture for their listeners. Gradually the faces of the + Wyoming men became shadowed. This was a formidable tale that they were + hearing, and they could not doubt its truth. + </p> + <p> + “It is worse than I thought it could be,” said Colonel Butler at last. + “How many men do you say they have, Mr. Ware?” + </p> + <p> + “Close to fifteen hundred.” + </p> + <p> + “All trained warriors and soldiers. And at the best we cannot raise more + than three hundreds including old men and boys, and our men, too, are + farmers.” + </p> + <p> + “But we can beat them. Only give us a chance, Colonel!” exclaimed Captain + Ransom. + </p> + <p> + “I'm afraid the chance will come too soon,” said Colonel Butler, and then + turning to the five: “Help us all you can. We need scouts and riflemen. + Come to the fort for any food and ammunition you may need.” + </p> + <p> + The five gave their most earnest assurances that they would stay, and do + all in their power. In fact, they had come for that very purpose. + Satisfied now that Colonel Butler and his officers had implicit faith in + them they went forth to find that, despite the night and the darkness, + fugitives were already crossing the river to seek refuge in Forty Fort, + bringing with them tales of death and devastation, some of which were + exaggerated, but too many true in all their hideous details. Men had been + shot and scalped in the fields, houses were burning, women and children + were captives for a fate that no one could foretell. Red ruin was already + stalking down the valley. + </p> + <p> + The farmers were bringing their wives and children in canoes and dugouts + across the river. Here and there a torch light flickered on the surface of + the stream, showing the pale faces of the women and children, too + frightened to cry. They had fled in haste, bringing with them only the + clothes they wore and maybe a blanket or two. The borderers knew too well + what Indian war was, with all its accompaniments of fire and the stake. + </p> + <p> + Henry and his comrades helped nearly all that night. They secured a large + boat and crossed the river again and again, guarding the fugitives with + their rifles, and bringing comfort to many a timid heart. Indian bands had + penetrated far into the Wyoming Valley, but they felt sure that none were + yet in the neighborhood of Forty Fort. + </p> + <p> + It was about three o'clock in the morning when the last of the fugitives + who had yet come was inside Forty Fort, and the labors of the five, had + they so chosen, were over for the time. But their nerves were tuned to so + high a pitch, and they felt so powerfully the presence of danger, that + they could not rest, nor did they have any desire for sleep. + </p> + <p> + The boat in which they sat was a good one, with two pairs of oars. It had + been detailed for their service, and they decided to pull up the river. + They thought it possible that they might see the advance of the enemy and + bring news worth the telling. Long Jim and Tom Ross took the oars, and + their powerful arms sent the boat swiftly along in the shadow of the + western bank. Henry and Paul looked back and saw dim lights at the fort + and a few on either shore. The valley, the high mountain wall, and + everything else were merged in obscurity. + </p> + <p> + Both the youths were oppressed heavily by the sense of danger, not for + themselves, but for others. In that Kentucky of theirs, yet so new, few + people lived beyond the palisades, but here were rich and scattered + settlements; and men, even in the face of great peril, are always loth to + abandon the homes that they have built with so much toil. + </p> + <p> + Tom Ross and Long Jim continued to pull steadily with the long strokes + that did not tire them, and the lights of the fort and houses sank out of + sight. Before them lay the somber surface of the rippling river, the + shadowy hills, and silence. The world seemed given over to the night save + for themselves, but they knew too well to trust to such apparent + desertion. At such hours the Indian scouts come, and Henry did not doubt + that they were already near, gathering news of their victims for the + Indian and Tory horde. Therefore, it was the part of his comrades and + himself to use the utmost caution as they passed up the river. + </p> + <p> + They bugged the western shore, where they were shadowed by banks and + bushes, and now they went slowly, Long Jim and Tom Ross drawing their oars + so carefully through the water that there was never a plash to tell of + their passing. Henry was in the prow of the boat, bent forward a little, + eyes searching the surface of the river, and ears intent upon any sound + that might pass on the bank. Suddenly he gave a little signal to the + rowers and they let their oars rest. + </p> + <p> + “Bring the boat in closer to the bank,” he whispered. “Push it gently + among those bushes where we cannot be seen from above.” + </p> + <p> + Tom and Jim obeyed. The boat slid softly among tall bushes that shadowed + the water, and was hidden completely. Then Henry stepped out, crept + cautiously nearly up the bank, which was here very low, and lay pressed + closely against the earth, but supported by the exposed root of a tree. He + had heard voices, those of Indians, he believed, and he wished to see. + Peering through a fringe of bushes that lined the bank he saw seven + warriors and one white face sitting under the boughs of a great oak. The + face was that of Braxton Wyatt, who was now in his element, with a better + prospect of success than any that he had ever known before. Henry + shuddered, and for a moment he regretted that he had spared Wyatt's life + when he might have taken it. + </p> + <p> + But Henry was lying against the bank to hear what these men might be + saying, not to slay. Two of the warriors, as he saw by their paint, were + Wyandots, and he understood the Wyandot tongue. Moreover, his slight + knowledge of Iroquois came into service, and gradually he gathered the + drift of their talk. Two miles nearer Forty Fort was a farmhouse one of + the Wyandots had seen it-not yet abandoned by its owner, who believed that + his proximity to Forty Fort assured his safety. He lived there with his + wife and five children, and Wyatt and the Indians planned to raid the + place before daylight and kill them all. Henry had heard enough. He slid + back from the bank to the water and crept into the boat. + </p> + <p> + “Pull back down the river as gently as you can,” he whispered, “and then + I'll tell you.” + </p> + <p> + The skilled oarsmen carried the boat without a splash several hundred + yards down the stream, and then Henry told the others of the fiendish plan + that he had heard. + </p> + <p> + “I know that man,” said Shif'less Sol. “His name is Standish. I was there + nine or ten hours ago, an' I told him it wuz time to take his family an' + run. But he knowed more'n I did. Said he'd stay, he wuzn't afraid, an' now + he's got to pay the price.” + </p> + <p> + “No, he mustn't do that,” said Henry. “It's too much to pay for just being + foolish, when everybody is foolish sometimes. Boys, we can yet save that + man an' his wife and children. Aren't you willing to do it?” + </p> + <p> + “Why, course,” said Long Jim. “Like ez not Standish will shoot at us when + we knock on his door, but let's try it.” + </p> + <p> + The others nodded assent. + </p> + <p> + “How far back from the river is the Standish house, Sol?” asked Henry. + </p> + <p> + “'Bout three hundred yards, I reckon, and' it ain't more'n a mile down.” + </p> + <p> + “Then if we pull with all our might, we won't be too late. Tom, you and + Jim give Sol and me the oars now.” + </p> + <p> + Henry and the shiftless one were fresh, and they sent the boat shooting + down stream, until they stopped at a point indicated by Sol. They leaped + ashore, drew the boat down the bank, and hastened toward a log house that + they saw standing in a clump of trees. The enemy had not yet come, but as + they swiftly approached the house a dog ran barking at them. The shiftless + one swung his rifle butt, and the dog fell unconscious. + </p> + <p> + “I hated to do it, but I had to,” he murmured. The next moment Henry was + knocking at the door. + </p> + <p> + “Up! Up!” he cried, “the Indians are at hand, and you must run for your + lives!” + </p> + <p> + How many a time has that terrible cry been heard on the American border! + </p> + <p> + The sound of a man's voice, startled and angry, came to their ears, and + then they heard him at the door. + </p> + <p> + “Who are you?” he cried. “Why are you beating on my door at such a time?” + </p> + <p> + “We are friends, Mr. Standish,” cried Henry, “and if you would save your + wife and children you must go at once! Open the door! Open, I say!” + </p> + <p> + The man inside was in a terrible quandary. It was thus that renegades or + Indians, speaking the white man's tongue, sometimes bade a door to be + opened, in order that they might find an easy path to slaughter. But the + voice outside was powerfully insistent, it had the note of truth; his wife + and children, roused, too, were crying out, in alarm. Henry knocked again + on the door and shouted to him in a voice, always increasing in + earnestness, to open and flee. Standish could resist no longer. He took + down the bar and flung open the door, springing back, startled at the five + figures that stood before him. In the dusk he did not remember Shif'less + Sol. + </p> + <p> + “Mr. Standish,” Henry said, speaking rapidly, “we are, as you can see, + white. You will be attacked here by Indians and renegades within half an + hour. We know that, because we heard them talking from the bushes. We have + a boat in the river; you can reach it in five minutes. Take your wife and + children, and pull for Forty Fort.” + </p> + <p> + Standish was bewildered. + </p> + <p> + “How do I know that you are not enemies, renegades, yourselves?” he asked. + </p> + <p> + “If we had been that you'd be a dead man already,” said Shif'less Sol. + </p> + <p> + It was a grim reply, but it was unanswerable, and Standish recognized the + fact. His wife had felt the truth in the tones of the strangers, and was + begging him to go. Their children were crying at visions of the tomahawk + and scalping knife now so near. + </p> + <p> + “We'll go,” said Standish. “At any rate, it can't do any harm. We'll get a + few things together.” + </p> + <p> + “Do not wait for anything!” exclaimed Henry. “You haven't a minute to + spare! Here are more blankets! Take them and run for the boat! Sol and + Jim, see them on board, and then come back!” + </p> + <p> + Carried away by such fire and earnestness, Standish and his family ran for + the boat. Jim and the shiftless one almost threw them on board, thrust a + pair of oars into the bands of Standish, another into the hands of his + wife, and then told them to pull with all their might for the fort. + </p> + <p> + “And you,” cried Standish, “what becomes of you?” + </p> + <p> + Then a singular expression passed over his face-he had guessed Henry's + plan. + </p> + <p> + “Don't you trouble about us,” said the shiftless one. “We will come later. + Now pull! pull!” + </p> + <p> + Standish and his wife swung on the oars, and in two minutes the boat and + its occupants were lost in the darkness. Tom Ross and Sol did not pause to + watch them, but ran swiftly back to the house. Henry was at the door. + </p> + <p> + “Come in,” he said briefly, and they entered. Then he closed the door and + dropped the bar into place. Shif'less Sol and Paul were already inside, + one sitting on the chair and the other on the edge of the bed. Some coals, + almost hidden under ashes, smoldered and cast a faint light in the room, + the only one that the house had, although it was divided into two parts by + a rough homespun curtain. Henry opened one of the window shutters a little + and looked out. The dawn had not yet come, but it was not a dark night, + and he looked over across the little clearing to the trees beyond. On that + side was a tiny garden, and near the wall of the house some roses were + blooming. He could see the glow of pink and red. But no enemy bad yet + approached. Searching the clearing carefully with those eyes of his, + almost preternaturally keen, he was confident that the Indians were still + in the woods. He felt an intense thrill of satisfaction at the success of + his plan so far. + </p> + <p> + He was not cruel, he never rejoiced in bloodshed, but the borderer alone + knew what the border suffered, and only those who never saw or felt the + torture could turn the other cheek to be smitten. The Standish house had + made a sudden and ominous change of tenants. + </p> + <p> + “It will soon be day,” said Henry, “and farmers are early risers. Kindle + up that fire a little, will you, Sol? I want some smoke to come out of the + chimney.” + </p> + <p> + The shiftless one raked away the ashes, and put on two or three pieces of + wood that lay on the hearth. Little flames and smoke arose. Henry looked + curiously about the house. It was the usual cabin of the frontier, + although somewhat larger. The bed on which Shif'less Sol sat was evidently + that of the father and mother, while two large ones behind the curtain + were used by the children. On the shelf stood a pail half full of drinking + water, and by the side of it a tin cup. Dried herbs hung over the + fireplace, and two or three chests stood in the corners. The clothing of + the children was scattered about. Unprepared food for breakfast stood on a + table. Everything told of a hasty flight and its terrible need. Henry was + already resolved, but his heart hardened within him as he saw. + </p> + <p> + He took the hatchet from his belt and cut one of the hooks for the door + bar nearly in two. The others said not a word. They had no need to speak. + They understood everything that he did. He opened the window again and + looked out. Nothing yet appeared. “The dawn will come in three quarters of + an hour,” he said, “and we shall not have to wait long for what we want to + do.” + </p> + <p> + He sat down facing the door. All the others were sitting, and they, too, + faced the door. Everyone had his rifle across his knees, with one hand + upon the hammer. The wood on the hearth sputtered as the fire spread, and + the flames grew. Beyond a doubt a thin spire of smoke was rising from the + chimney, and a watching eye would see this sign of a peaceful and + unsuspecting mind. + </p> + <p> + “I hope Braxton Wyatt will be the first to knock at our door,” said + Shif'less Sol. + </p> + <p> + “I wouldn't be sorry,” said Henry. + </p> + <p> + Paul was sitting in a chair near the fire, and he said nothing. He hoped + the waiting would be very short. The light was sufficient for him to see + the faces of his comrades, and he noticed that they were all very tense. + This was no common watch that they kept. Shif'less Sol remained on the + bed, Henry sat on another of the chairs, Tom Ross was on one of the chests + with his back to the wall. Long Jim was near the curtain. Close by Paul + was a home-made cradle. He put down his hand and touched it. He was glad + that it was empty now, but the sight of it steeled his heart anew for the + task that lay before them. + </p> + <p> + Ten silent minutes passed, and Henry went to the window again. He did not + open it, but there was a crack through which he could see. The others said + nothing, but watched his face. When he turned away they knew that the + moment was at hand. + </p> + <p> + “They've just come from the woods,” he said, “and in a minute they'll be + at the door. Now, boys, take one last look at your rifles.” + </p> + <p> + A minute later there was a sudden sharp knock at the door, but no answer + came from within. The knock was repeated, sharper and louder, and Henry, + altering his voice as much as possible, exclaimed like one suddenly + awakened from sleep: + </p> + <p> + “Who is it? What do you want?” + </p> + <p> + Back came a voice which Henry knew to be that of Braxton Wyatt: + </p> + <p> + “We've come from farther up the valley. We're scouts, we've been up to the + Indian country. We're half starved. Open and give us food!” + </p> + <p> + “I don't believe you,” replied Henry. “Honest people don't come to my door + at this time in the morning.” + </p> + <p> + Then ensued a few moments of silence, although Paul, with his vivid fancy, + thought he heard whispering on the other side of the door. + </p> + <p> + “Open!” cried Wyatt, “or we'll break your door down!” Henry said nothing, + nor did any of the others. They did not stir. The fire crackled a little, + but there was no other sound in the Standish house. Presently they heard a + slight noise outside, that of light feet. + </p> + <p> + “They are going for a log with which to break the door in,” whispered + Henry. “They won't have to look far. The wood pile isn't fifty feet away.” + </p> + <p> + “An' then,” said Shif'less Sol, “they won't have much left to do but to + take the scalps of women an' little children.” + </p> + <p> + Every figure in the Standish house stiffened at the shiftless one's + significant words, and the light in the eyes grew sterner. Henry went to + the door, put his ear to the line where it joined the wall, and listened. + </p> + <p> + “They've got their log,” he said, “and in half a minute they'll rush it + against the door.” + </p> + <p> + He came back to his old position. Paul's heart began to thump, and his + thumb fitted itself over the trigger of his cocked rifle. Then they heard + rapid feet, a smash, a crash, and the door flew open. A half dozen + Iroquois and a log that they held between them were hurled into the middle + of the room. The door had given away so easily and unexpectedly that the + warriors could not check themselves, and two or three fell with the log. + But they sprang like cats to their feet, and with their comrades uttered a + cry that filled the whole cabin with its terrible sound and import. + </p> + <p> + The Iroquois, keen of eyes and quick of mind, saw the trap at once. The + five grim figures, rifle in hand and finger on trigger, all waiting silent + and motionless were far different from what they expected. Here could be + no scalps, with the long, silky hair of women and children. + </p> + <p> + There was a moment's pause, and then the Indians rushed at their foes. + Five fingers pulled triggers, flame leaped from five muzzles, and in an + instant the cabin was filled with smoke and war shouts, but the warriors + never had a chance. They could only strike blindly with their tomahawks, + and in a half minute three of them, two wounded, rushed through the door + and fled to the woods. They had been preceded already by Braxton Wyatt, + who had hung back craftily while the Iroquois broke down the door. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0009" id="link2HCH0009"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER IX. WYOMING + </h2> + <p> + The five made no attempt to pursue. In fact, they did not leave the cabin, + but stood there a while, looking down at the fallen, hideous with war + paint, but now at the end of their last trail. Their tomahawks lay upon + the floor, and glittered when the light from the fire fell upon them. + Smoke, heavy with the odor of burned gunpowder, drifted about the room. + </p> + <p> + Henry threw open the two shuttered windows, and fresh currents of air + poured into the room. Over the mountains in the east came the first shaft + of day. The surface of the river was lightening. + </p> + <p> + “What shall we do with them?” asked Paul, pointing to the silent forms on + the floor. + </p> + <p> + “Leave them,” said Henry. “Butler's army is burning everything before it, + and this house and all in it is bound to go. You notice, however, that + Braxton Wyatt is not here.” + </p> + <p> + “Trust him to escape every time,” said Shif'less Sol. “Of course he stood + back while the Indians rushed the house. But ez shore ez we live somebody + will get him some day. People like that can't escape always.” + </p> + <p> + They slipped from the house, turning toward the river bank, and not long + after it was full daylight they were at Forty Fort again, where they found + Standish and his family. Henry replied briefly to the man's questions, but + two hours later a scout came in and reported the grim sight that he had + seen in the Standish home. No one could ask for further proof of the + fealty of the five, who sought a little sleep, but before noon were off + again. + </p> + <p> + They met more fugitives, and it was now too dangerous to go farther up the + valley. But not willing to turn back, they ascended the mountains that hem + it in, and from the loftiest point that they could find sought a sight of + the enemy. + </p> + <p> + It was an absolutely brilliant day in summer. The blue of the heavens + showed no break but the shifting bits of white cloud, and the hills and + mountains rolled away, solid masses of rich, dark green. The river, a + beautiful river at any time, seemed from this height a great current of + quicksilver. Henry pointed to a place far up the stream where black dots + appeared on its surface. These dots were moving, and they came on in four + lines. + </p> + <p> + “Boys,” he said, “you know what those lines of black dots are?” + </p> + <p> + “Yes,” replied Shif'less Sol, “it's Butler's army of Indians, Tories, + Canadians, an' English. They've come from Tioga Point on the river, an' + our Colonel Butler kin expect 'em soon.” + </p> + <p> + The sunlight became dazzling, and showed the boats, despite the distance, + with startling clearness. The five, watching from their peak, saw them + turn in toward the land, where they poured forth a motley stream of red + men and white, a stream that was quickly swallowed up in the forest. + </p> + <p> + “They are coming down through the woods on the fort, said Tom Ross. + </p> + <p> + “And they're coming fast,” said Henry. “It's for us to carry the warning.” + </p> + <p> + They sped back to the Wyoming fort, spreading the alarm as they passed, + and once more they were in the council room with Colonel Zebulon Butler + and his officers around him. + </p> + <p> + “So they are at hand, and you have seen them?” said the colonel. + </p> + <p> + “Yes,” replied Henry, the spokesman, “they came down from Tioga Point in + boats, but have disembarked and are advancing through the woods. They will + be here today.” + </p> + <p> + There was a little silence in the room. The older men understood the + danger perhaps better than the younger, who were eager for battle. + </p> + <p> + “Why should we stay here and wait for them?” exclaimed one of the younger + captains at length-some of these captains were mere boys. “Why not go out, + meet them, and beat them?” + </p> + <p> + “They outnumber us about five to one,” said Henry. “Brant, if he is still + with them, though he may have gone to some other place from Tioga Point, + is a great captain. So is Timmendiquas, the Wyandot, and they say that the + Tory leader is energetic and capable.” + </p> + <p> + “It is all true!” exclaimed Colonel Butler. “We must stay in the fort! We + must not go out to meet them! We are not strong enough!” + </p> + <p> + A murmur of protest and indignation came from the younger officers. + </p> + <p> + “And leave the valley to be ravaged! Women and children to be scalped, + while we stay behind log walls!” said one of them boldly. + </p> + <p> + The men in the Wyoming fort were not regular troops, merely militia, + farmers gathered hastily for their own defense. + </p> + <p> + Colonel Butler flushed. + </p> + <p> + “We have induced as many as we could to seek refuge,” he said. “It hurts + me as much as you to have the valley ravaged while we sit quiet here. But + I know that we have no chance against so large a force, and if we fall + what is to become of the hundreds whom we now protect?” + </p> + <p> + But the murmur of protest grew. All the younger men were indignant. They + would not seek shelter for themselves while others were suffering. A young + lieutenant saw from a window two fires spring up and burn like torch + lights against the sky. They were houses blazing before the Indian brand. + </p> + <p> + “Look at that!” he cried, pointing with an accusing finger, “and we are + here, under cover, doing nothing!” + </p> + <p> + A deep angry mutter went about the room, but Colonel Butler, although the + flush remained on his face, still shook his head. He glanced at Tom Ross, + the oldest of the five. + </p> + <p> + “You know about the Indian force,” he exclaimed. “What should we do?” + </p> + <p> + The face of Tom Ross was very grave, and he spoke slowly, as was his wont. + </p> + <p> + “It's a hard thing to set here,” he exclaimed, “but it will be harder to + go out an' meet 'em on their own ground, an' them four or five to one.” + </p> + <p> + “We must not go out,” repeated the Colonel, glad of such backing. + </p> + <p> + The door was thrust open, and an officer entered. + </p> + <p> + “A rumor has just arrived, saying that the entire Davidson family has been + killed and scalped,” he said. + </p> + <p> + A deep, angry cry went up. Colonel Butler and the few who stood with him + were overborne. Such things as these could not be endured, and reluctantly + the commander gave his consent. They would go out and fight. The fort and + its enclosures were soon filled with the sounds of preparation, and the + little army was formed rapidly. + </p> + <p> + “We will fight by your side, of course,” said Henry, “but we wish to serve + on the flank as an independent band. We can be of more service in that + manner.” + </p> + <p> + The colonel thanked them gratefully. + </p> + <p> + “Act as you think best,” he said. + </p> + <p> + The five stood near one of the gates, while the little force formed in + ranks. Almost for the first time they were gloomy upon going into battle. + They had seen the strength of that army of Indians, renegades, Tories, + Canadians, and English advancing under the banner of England, and they + knew the power and fanaticism of the Indian leaders. They believed that + the terrible Queen Esther, tomahawk in hand, had continually chanted to + them her songs of blood as they came down the river. It was now the third + of July, and valley and river were beautiful in the golden sunlight. The + foliage showed vivid and deep green on either line of high hills. The + summer sun had never shown more kindly over the lovely valley. + </p> + <p> + The time was now three o'clock. The gates of the fort were thrown open, + and the little army marched out, only three hundred, of whom seventy were + old men, or boys so young that in our day they would be called children. + Yet they marched bravely against the picked warriors of the Iroquois, + trained from infancy to the forest and war, and a formidable body of white + rovers who wished to destroy the little colony of “rebels,” as they called + them. + </p> + <p> + Small though it might be, it was a gallant army. Young and old held their + heads high. A banner was flying, and a boy beat a steady insistent roll + upon a drum. Henry and his comrades were on the left flank, the river was + on the right. The great gates had closed behind them, shutting in the + women and the children. The sun blazed down, throwing everything into + relief with its intense, vivid light playing upon the brown faces of the + borderers, their rifles and their homespun clothes. Colonel Butler and two + or three of his officers were on horseback, leading the van. Now that the + decision was to fight, the older officers, who had opposed it, were in the + very front. Forward they went, and spread out a little, but with the right + flank still resting on the river, and the left extended on the plain. + </p> + <p> + The five were on the edge of the plain, a little detached from the others, + searching the forest for a sign of the enemy, who was already so near. + Their gloom did not decrease. Neither the rolling of the drum nor the + flaunting of the banner had any effect. Brave though the men might be, + this was not the way in which they should meet an Indian foe who + outnumbered them four or five to one. + </p> + <p> + “I don't like it,” muttered Tom Ross. + </p> + <p> + “Nor do I,” said Henry, “but remember that whatever happens we all stand + together.” + </p> + <p> + “We remember!” said the others. + </p> + <p> + On-they went, and the five moving faster were now ahead of the main force + some hundred yards. They swung in a little toward the river. The banks + here were highland off to the left was a large swamp. The five now checked + speed and moved with great wariness. They saw nothing, and they heard + nothing, either, until they went forty or fifty yards farther. Then a low + droning sound came to their ears. It was the voice of one yet far away, + but they knew it. It was the terrible chant of Queen Esther, in this + moment the most ruthless of all the savages, and inflaming them + continuously for the combat. + </p> + <p> + The five threw themselves flat on their faces, and waited a little. The + chant grew louder, and then through the foliage they saw the ominous + figure approaching. She was much as she had been on that night when they + first beheld her. She wore the same dress of barbaric colors, she swung + the same great tomahawk about her head, and sang all the time of fire and + blood and death. + </p> + <p> + They saw behind her the figures of chiefs, naked to the breech cloth for + battle, their bronze bodies glistening with the war paint, and bright + feathers gleaming in their hair. Henry recognized the tall form of + Timmendiquas, notable by his height, and around him his little band of + Wyandots, ready to prove themselves mighty warriors to their eastern + friends the Iroquois. Back of these was a long line of Indians and their + white allies, Sir John Johnson's Royal Greens and Butler's Rangers in the + center, bearing the flag of England. The warriors, of whom the Senecas + were most numerous, were gathered in greatest numbers on their right + flank, facing the left flank of the Americans. Sangerachte and Hiokatoo, + who had taken two English prisoners at Braddock's defeat, and who had + afterwards burned them both alive with his own hand, were the principal + leaders of the Senecas. Henry caught a glimpse of “Indian” Butler in the + center, with a great blood-red handkerchief tied around his head, and, + despite the forest, he noticed with a great sinking of the heart how far + the hostile line extended. It could wrap itself like a python around the + defense. + </p> + <p> + “It's a tale that will soon be told,” said Paul. + </p> + <p> + They went back swiftly, and warned Colonel Butler that the enemy was at + band. Even as they spoke they heard the loud wailing chant of Queen + Esther, and then came the war whoop, pouring from a thousand throats, + swelling defiant and fierce like the cry of a wounded beast. The farmers, + the boys, and the old men, most of whom had never been in battle, might + well tremble at this ominous sound, so great in volume and extending so + far into the forest. But they stood firm, drawing themselves into a + somewhat more compact body, and still advancing with their banners flying, + and the boy beating out that steady roll on the drum. + </p> + <p> + The enemy now came into full sight, and Colonel Butler deployed his force + in line of battle, his right resting on the high bank of the river and his + left against the swamp. Forward pressed the motley army of the other + Butler, he of sanguinary and cruel fame, and the bulk of his force came + into view, the sun shining down on the green uniforms of the English and + the naked brown bodies of the Iroquois. + </p> + <p> + The American commander gave the order to fire. Eager fingers were already + on the trigger, and a blaze of light ran along the entire rank. The Royal + Greens and Rangers, although replying with their own fire, gave back + before the storm of bullets, and the Wyoming men, with a shout of triumph, + sprang forward. It was always a characteristic of the border settler, + despite many disasters and a knowledge of Indian craft and cunning, to + rush straight at his foe whenever he saw him. His, unless a trained forest + warrior himself, was a headlong bravery, and now this gallant little force + asked for nothing but to come to close grips with the enemy. + </p> + <p> + The men in the center with “Indian” Butler gave back still more. With + cries of victory the Wyoming men pressed forward, firing rapidly, and + continuing to drive the mongrel white force. The rifles were cracking + rapidly, and smoke arose over the two lines. The wind caught wisps of it + and carried them off down the river. + </p> + <p> + “It goes better than I thought,” said Paul as he reloaded his rifle. + </p> + <p> + “Not yet,” said Henry, “we are fighting the white men only. Where are all + the Indians, who alone outnumber our men more than two to one?” + </p> + <p> + “Here they come,” said Shif'less Sol, pointing to the depths of the swamp, + which was supposed to protect the left flank of the Wyoming force. + </p> + <p> + The five saw in the spaces, amid the briars and vines, scores of dark + figures leaping over the mud, naked to the breech cloth, armed with rifle + and tomahawk, and rushing down upon the unprotected side of their foe. The + swamp had been but little obstacle to them. + </p> + <p> + Henry and his comrades gave the alarm at once. As many as possible were + called off immediately from the main body, but they were not numerous + enough to have any effect. The Indians came through the swamp in hundreds + and hundreds, and, as they uttered their triumphant yell, poured a + terrible fire into the Wyoming left flank. The defenders were forced to + give ground, and the English and Tories came on again. + </p> + <p> + The fire was now deadly and of great volume. The air was filled with the + flashing of the rifles. The cloud of smoke grew heavier, and faces, either + from heat or excitement, showed red through it. The air was filled with + bullets, and the Wyoming force was being cut down fast, as the fire of + more than a thousand rifles converged upon it. + </p> + <p> + The five at the fringe of the swamp loaded and fired as fast as they could + at the Indian horde, but they saw that it was creeping closer and closer, + and that the hail of bullets it sent in was cutting away the whole left + flank of the defenders. They saw the tall figure of Timmendiquas, a very + god of war, leading on the Indians, with his fearless Wyandots in a close + cluster around him. Colonel John Durkee, gathering up a force of fifty or + sixty, charged straight at the warriors, but he was killed by a withering + volley, which drove his men back. + </p> + <p> + Now occurred a fatal thing, one of those misconceptions which often decide + the fate of a battle. The company of Captain Whittlesey, on the extreme + left, which was suffering most severely, was ordered to fall back. The + entire little army, which was being pressed hard now, seeing the movement + of Whittlesey, began to retreat. Even without the mistake it is likely + they would have lost in the face of such numbers. + </p> + <p> + The entire horde of Indians, Tories, Canadians, English, and renegades, + uttering a tremendous yell, rushed forward. Colonel Zebulon Butler, seeing + the crisis, rode up and down in front of his men, shouting: “Don't leave + me, my children! the victory is ours!” Bravely his officers strove to stop + the retreat. Every captain who led a company into action was killed. Some + of these captains were but boys. The men were falling by dozens. + </p> + <p> + All the Indians, by far the most formidable part of the invading force, + were through the swamp now, and, dashing down their unloaded rifles, threw + themselves, tomahawk in hand, upon the defense. Not more than two hundred + of the Wyoming men were left standing, and the impact of seven or eight + hundred savage warriors was so great that they were hurled back in + confusion. A wail of grief and terror came from the other side of the + river, where a great body of women and children were watching the + fighting. + </p> + <p> + “The battle's lost,” said Shif'less Sol. + </p> + <p> + “Beyond hope of saving it,” said Henry, “but, boys, we five are alive yet, + and we'll do our best to help the others protect the retreat.” + </p> + <p> + They kept under cover, fighting as calmly as they could amid such a + terrible scene, picking off warrior after warrior, saving more than one + soldier ere the tomahawk fell. Shif'less Sol took a shot at “Indian” + Butler, but he was too far away, and the bullet missed him. + </p> + <p> + “I'd give five years of my life if he were fifty yards nearer,” exclaimed + the shiftless one. + </p> + <p> + But the invading force came in between and he did not get another shot. + There was now a terrible medley, a continuous uproar, the crashing fire of + hundreds of rifles, the shouts of the Indians, and the cries of the + wounded. Over them all hovered smoke and dust, and the air was heavy, too, + with the odor of burnt gunpowder. The division of old men and very young + boys stood next, and the Indians were upon them, tomahawk in hand, but in + the face of terrible odds all bore themselves with a valor worthy of the + best of soldiers. Three fourths of them died that day, before they were + driven back on the fort. + </p> + <p> + The Wyoming force was pushed away from the edge of the swamp, which had + been some protection to the left, and they were now assailed from all + sides except that of the river. “Indian” Butler raged at the head of his + men, who had been driven back at first, and who had been saved by the + Indians. Timmendiquas, in the absence of Brant, who was not seen upon this + field, became by valor and power of intellect the leader of all the + Indians for this moment. The Iroquois, although their own fierce chiefs, + I-Tiokatoo, Sangerachte, and the others fought with them, unconsciously + obeyed him. Nor did the fierce woman, Queen Esther, shirk the battle. + Waving her great tomahawk, she was continually among the warriors, singing + her song of war and death. + </p> + <p> + They were driven steadily back toward the fort, and the little band + crumbled away beneath the deadly fire. Soon none would be left unless they + ran for their lives. The five drew away toward the forest. They saw that + the fort itself could not hold out against such a numerous and victorious + foe, and they had no mind to be trapped. But their retreat was slow, and + as they went they sent bullet after bullet into the Indian flank. Only a + small percentage of the Wyoming force was left, and it now broke. Colonel + Butler and Colonel Dennison, who were mounted, reached the fort. Some of + the men jumped into the river, swam to the other shore and escaped. Some + swam to a little island called Monocacy, and hid, but the Tories and + Indians hunted them out and slew them. One Tory found his brother there, + and killed him with his own hand, a deed of unspeakable horror that is yet + mentioned by the people of that region. A few fled into the forest and + entered the fort at night. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0010" id="link2HCH0010"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER X. THE BLOODY ROCK + </h2> + <p> + Seeing that all was lost, the five drew farther away into the woods. They + were not wounded, yet their faces were white despite the tan. They had + never before looked upon so terrible a scene. The Indians, wild with the + excitement of a great triumph and thirsting for blood, were running over + the field scalping the dead, killing some of the wounded, and saving + others for the worst of tortures. Nor were their white allies one whit + behind them. They bore a full part in the merciless war upon the + conquered. Timmendiquas, the great Wyandot, was the only one to show + nobility. Several of the wounded he saved from immediate death, and he + tried to hold back the frenzied swarm of old squaws who rushed forward and + began to practice cruelties at which even the most veteran warrior might + shudder. But Queen Esther urged them on, and “Indian” Butler himself and + the chiefs were afraid of her. + </p> + <p> + Henry, despite himself, despite all his experience and powers of + self-control, shuddered from head to foot at the cries that came from the + lost field, and he was sure that the others were doing the same. The sun + was setting, but its dying light, brilliant and intense, tinged the field + as if with blood, showing all the yelling horde as the warriors rushed + about for scalps, or danced in triumph, whirling their hideous trophies + about their heads. Others were firing at men who were escaping to the far + bank of the Susquehanna, and others were already seeking the fugitives in + their vain hiding places on the little islet. + </p> + <p> + The five moved farther into the forest, retreating slowly, and sending in + a shot now and then to protect the retreat of some fugitive who was + seeking the shelter of the woods. The retreat had become a rout and then a + massacre. The savages raged up and down in the greatest killing they had + known since Braddock's defeat. The lodges of the Iroquois would be full of + the scalps of white men. + </p> + <p> + All the five felt the full horror of the scene, but it made its deepest + impress, perhaps, upon Paul. He had taken part in border battles before, + but this was the first great defeat. He was not blind to the valor and + good qualities of the Indian and his claim upon the wilderness, but he saw + the incredible cruelties that he could commit, and he felt a horror of + those who used him as an ally, a horror that he could never dismiss from + his mind as long as he lived. + </p> + <p> + “Look!” he exclaimed, “look at that!” + </p> + <p> + A man of seventy and a boy of fourteen were running for the forest. They + might have been grandfather and grandson. Undoubtedly they had fought in + the Battalion of the Very Old and the Very Young, and now, when everything + else was lost, they were seeking to save their lives in the friendly + shelter of the woods. But they were pursued by two groups of Iroquois, + four warriors in one, and three in the other, and the Indians were gaining + fast. + </p> + <p> + “I reckon we ought to save them,” said Shif'less Sol. + </p> + <p> + “No doubt of it,” said Henry. “Paul, you and Sol move off to the right a + little, and take the three, while the rest of us will look out for the + four.” + </p> + <p> + The little band separated according to the directions, Paul and Sol having + the lighter task, as the others were to meet the group of four Indians at + closer range. Paul and Sol were behind some trees, and, turning at an + angle, they ran forward to intercept the three Indians. It would have + seemed to anyone who was not aware of the presence of friends in the + forest that the old man and the boy would surely be overtaken and be + tomahawked, but three rifles suddenly flashed among the foliage. Two of + the warriors in the group of four fell, and a third uttered a yell of + pain. Paul and Shif'less Sol fired at the same time at the group of three. + One fell before the deadly rifle of Shif'less Sol, but Paul only grazed + his man. Nevertheless, the whole pursuit stopped, and the boy and the old + man escaped to the forest, and subsequently to safety at the Moravian + towns. + </p> + <p> + Paul, watching the happy effect of the shots, was about to say something + to Shif'less Sol, when an immense force was hurled upon him, and he was + thrown to the ground. His comrade was served in the same way, but the + shiftless one was uncommonly strong and agile. He managed to writhe half + way to his knees, and he shouted in a tremendous voice: + </p> + <p> + “Run, Henry, run! You can't do anything for us now!” + </p> + <p> + Braxton Wyatt struck him fiercely across the mouth. The blood came, but + the shiftless one merely spat it out, and looked curiously at the + renegade. + </p> + <p> + “I've often wondered about you, Braxton,” he said calmly. “I used to think + that anybody, no matter how bad, had some good in him, but I reckon you + ain't got none.” + </p> + <p> + Wyatt did not answer, but rushed forward in search of the others. But + Henry, Silent Tom, and Long Jim had vanished. A powerful party of warriors + had stolen upon Shif'less Sol and Paul, while they were absorbed in the + chase of the old man and the boy, and now they were prisoners, bound + securely. Braxton Wyatt came back from the fruitless search for the three, + but his face was full of savage joy as he looked down at the captured two. + </p> + <p> + “We could have killed you just as easily,” he said, “but we didn't want to + do that. Our friends here are going to have their fun with you first.” + </p> + <p> + Paul's cheeks whitened a little at the horrible suggestion, but Shif'less + Sol faced them boldly. Several white men in uniform had come up, and among + them was an elderly one, short and squat, and with a great flame colored + handkerchief tied around his bead. + </p> + <p> + “You may burn us alive, or you may do other things jest ez bad to us, all + under the English flag,” said Shif'less Sol, “but I'm thinkin' that a lot + o' people in England will be ashamed uv it when they hear the news.” + </p> + <p> + “Indian” Butler and his uniformed soldiers turned away, leaving Shif'less + Sol and Paul in the hands of the renegade and the Iroquois. The two + prisoners were jerked to their feet and told to march. + </p> + <p> + “Come on, Paul,” said Shif'less Sol. “'Tain't wuth while fur us to resist. + But don't you quit hopin', Paul. We've escaped from many a tight corner, + an' mebbe we're goin' to do it ag'in.” + </p> + <p> + “Shut up!” said Braxton Wyatt savagely. “If you say another word I'll gag + you in a way that will make you squirm.” + </p> + <p> + Shif'less Sol looked him squarely in the eye. Solomon Hyde, who was not + shiftless at all, had a dauntless soul, and he was not afraid now in the + face of death preceded by long torture. + </p> + <p> + “I had a dog once, Braxton Wyatt,” he said, “an' I reckon he wuz the + meanest, ornierest cur that ever lived. He liked to live on dirt, the + dirtier the place he could find the better; he'd rather steal his food + than get it honestly; he wuz sech a coward that he wuz afeard o' a rabbit, + but ef your back wuz turned to him he'd nip you in the ankle. But bad ez + that dog wuz, Braxton, he wuz a gentleman 'longside o' you.” + </p> + <p> + Some of the Indians understood English, and Wyatt knew it. He snatched a + pistol from his belt, and was about to strike Sol with the butt of it, but + a tall figure suddenly appeared before him, and made a commanding gesture. + The gesture said plainly: “Do not strike; put that pistol back!” Braxton + Wyatt, whose soul was afraid within him, did not strike, and he put the + pistol back. + </p> + <p> + It was Timmendiquas, the great White Lightning of the Wyandots, who with + his little detachment had proved that day how mighty the Wyandot warriors + were, full equals of Thayendanegea's Mohawks, the Keepers of the Western + Gate. He was bare to the waist. One shoulder was streaked with blood from + a slight wound, but his countenance was not on fire with passion for + torture and slaughter like those of the others. + </p> + <p> + “There is no need to strike prisoners,” he said in English. “Their fate + will be decided later.” + </p> + <p> + Paul thought that he caught a look of pity from the eyes of the great + Wyandot, and Shif'less Sol said: + </p> + <p> + “I'm sorry, Timmendiquas, since I had to be captured, that you didn't + capture me yourself. I'm glad to say that you're a great warrior.” + </p> + <p> + Wyatt growled under his breath, but he was still afraid to speak out, + although he knew that Timmendiquas was merely a distant and casual ally, + and had little authority in that army. Yet he was overawed, and so were + the Indians with him. + </p> + <p> + “We were merely taking the prisoners to Colonel Butler,” he said. “That is + all.” + </p> + <p> + Timmendiquas stared at him, and the renegade's face fell. But he and the + Indians went on with the prisoners, and Timmendiquas looked after them + until they were out of sight. + </p> + <p> + “I believe White Lightning was sorry that we'd been captured,” whispered + Shif'less Sol. + </p> + <p> + “I think so, too,” Paul whispered back. + </p> + <p> + They had no chance for further conversation, as they were driven rapidly + now to that point of the battlefield which lay nearest to the fort, and + here they were thrust into the midst of a gloomy company, fellow captives, + all bound tightly, and many wounded. No help, no treatment of any kind was + offered for hurts. The Indians and renegades stood about and yelled with + delight when the agony of some man's wound wrung from him a groan. The + scene was hideous in every respect. The setting sun shone blood red over + forest, field, and river. Far off burning houses still smoked like + torches. But the mountain wall in the east, was growing dusky with the + coming twilight. From the island, where they were massacring the fugitives + in their vain hiding places, came the sound of shots and cries, but + elsewhere the firing had ceased. All who could escape had done so already, + and of the others, those who were dead were fortunate. + </p> + <p> + The sun sank like a red ball behind the mountains, and darkness swept down + over the earth. Fires began to blaze up here and there, some for terrible + purpose. The victorious Iroquois; stripped to the waist and painted in + glaring colors, joined in a savage dance that would remain forever + photographed on the eye of Paul Cotter. As they jumped to and fro, + hundreds of them, waving aloft tomahawks and scalping knives, both of + which dripped red, they sang their wild chant of war and triumph. White + men, too, as savage as they, joined them. Paul shuddered again and again + from head to foot at this sight of an orgy such as the mass of mankind + escapes, even in dreams. + </p> + <p> + The darkness thickened, the dance grew wilder. It was like a carnival of + demons, but it was to be incited to a yet wilder pitch. A singular figure, + one of extraordinary ferocity, was suddenly projected into the midst of + the whirling crowd, and a chant, shriller and fiercer, rose above all the + others. The figure was that of Queen Esther, like some monstrous creature + out of a dim past, her great tomahawk stained with blood, her eyes + bloodshot, and stains upon her shoulders. Paul would have covered his eyes + had his hands not been tied instead, he turned his head away. He could not + bear to see more. But the horrible chant came to his ears, nevertheless, + and it was reinforced presently by other sounds still more terrible. Fires + sprang up in the forest, and cries came from these fires. The victorious + army of “Indian” Butler was beginning to burn the prisoners alive. But at + this point we must stop. The details of what happened around those fires + that night are not for the ordinary reader. It suffices to say that the + darkest deed ever done on the soil of what is now the United States was + being enacted. + </p> + <p> + Shif'less Sol himself, iron of body and soul, was shaken. He could not + close his ears, if he would, to the cries that came from the fires, but he + shut his eyes to keep out the demon dance. Nevertheless, he opened them + again in a moment. The horrible fascination was too great. He saw Queen + Esther still shaking her tomahawk, but as he looked she suddenly darted + through the circle, warriors willingly giving way before her, and + disappeared in the darkness. The scalp dance went on, but it had lost some + of its fire and vigor. + </p> + <p> + Shif'less Sol felt relieved. + </p> + <p> + “She's gone,” he whispered to Paul, and the boy, too, then opened his + eyes. The rest of it, the mad whirlings and jumpings of the warriors, was + becoming a blur before him, confused and without meaning. + </p> + <p> + Neither he nor Shif'less Sol knew how long they had been sitting there on + the ground, although it had grown yet darker, when Braxton Wyatt thrust a + violent foot against the shiftless one and cried: + </p> + <p> + “Get up! You're wanted!” + </p> + <p> + A half dozen Seneca warriors were with him, and there was no chance of + resistance. The two rose slowly to their feet, and walked where Braxton + Wyatt led. The Senecas came on either side, and close behind them, + tomahawks in their hands. Paul, the sensitive, who so often felt the + impression of coming events from the conditions around him, was sure that + they were marching to their fate. Death he did not fear so greatly, + although he did not want to die, but when a shriek came to him from one of + the fires that convulsive shudder shook him again from head to foot. + Unconsciously he strained at his bound arms, not for freedom, but that he + might thrust his fingers in his ears and shut out the awful sounds. + Shif'less Sol, because he could not use his hands, touched his shoulder + gently against Paul's. + </p> + <p> + “Paul,” he whispered, “I ain't sure that we're goin' to die, leastways, I + still have hope; but ef we do, remember that we don't have to die but + oncet.” + </p> + <p> + “I'll remember, Sol,” Paul whispered back. + </p> + <p> + “Silence, there!” exclaimed Braxton Wyatt. But the two had said all they + wanted to say, and fortunately their senses were somewhat dulled. They had + passed through so much that they were like those who are under the + influence of opiates. The path was now dark, although both torches and + fires burned in the distance. Presently they heard that chant with which + they had become familiar, the dreadful notes of the hyena woman, and they + knew that they were being taken into her presence, for what purpose they + could not tell, although they were sure that it was a bitter one. As they + approached, the woman's chant rose to an uncommon pitch of frenzy, and + Paul felt the blood slowly chilling within him. + </p> + <p> + “Get up there!” exclaimed Braxton Wyatt, and the Senecas gave them both a + push. Other warriors who were standing at the edge of an open space seized + them and threw them forward with much violence. When they struggled into a + sitting position, they saw Queen Esther standing upon a broad flat rock + and whirling in a ghastly dance that had in it something Oriental. She + still swung the great war hatchet that seemed always to be in her hand. + Her long black hair flew wildly about her head, and her red dress gleamed + in the dusk. Surely no more terrible image ever appeared in the American + wilderness! In front of her, lying upon the ground, were twenty bound + Americans, and back of them were Iroquois in dozens, with a sprinkling of + their white allies. + </p> + <p> + What it all meant, what was about to come to pass, nether Paul nor + Shif'less Sol could guess, but Queen Esther sang: + </p> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + We have found them, the Yengees + Who built their houses in the valley, + They came forth to meet us in battle, + Our rifles and tomahawks cut them down, + As the Yengees lay low the forest. + Victory and glory Aieroski gives to his children, + The Mighty Six Nations, greatest of men. + + There will be feasting in the lodges of the Iroquois, + And scalps will hang on the high ridge pole, + But wolves will roam where the Yengees dwelt + And will gnaw the bones of them all, + Of the man, the woman, and the child. + Victory and glory Aieroski gives to his children, + The Mighty Six Nations, greatest of men. +</pre> + <p> + Such it sounded to Shif'less Sol, who knew the tongue of the Iroquois, and + so it went on, verse after verse, and at the end of each verse came the + refrain, in which the warriors joined: + </p> + <p> + “Victory and glory Aieroski gives to his children. The mighty Six Nations, + greatest of men.” + </p> + <p> + “What under the sun is she about?” whispered Shif'less Sol. + </p> + <p> + “It is a fearful face,” was Paul's only reply. + </p> + <p> + Suddenly the woman, without stopping her chant, made a gesture to the + warriors. Two powerful Senecas seized one of the bound prisoners, dragged + him to his feet, and held him up before her. She uttered a shout, whirled + the great tomahawk about her head, its blade glittering in the moonlight, + and struck with all her might. The skull of the prisoner was cleft to the + chin, and without a cry he fell at the feet of the woman who had killed + him. Paul uttered a shout of horror, but it was lost in the joyful yells + of the Iroquois, who, at the command of the woman, offered a second + victim. Again the tomahawk descended, and again a man fell dead without a + sound. + </p> + <p> + Shif'less Sol and Paul wrenched at their thongs, but they could not move + them. Braxton Wyatt laughed aloud. It was strange to see how fast one with + a bad nature could fall when the opportunities were spread before him. Now + he was as cruel as the Indians themselves. Wilder and shriller grew the + chant of the savage queen. She was intoxicated with blood. She saw it + everywhere. Her tomahawk clove a third skull, a fourth, a fifth, a sixth, + a seventh, and eighth. As fast as they fell the warriors at her command + brought up new victims for her weapon. Paul shut his eyes, but he knew by + the sounds what was passing. Suddenly a stern voice cried: + </p> + <p> + “Hold, woman! Enough of this! Will your tomahawk never be satisfied?” + </p> + <p> + Paul understood it, the meaning, but not the words. He opened his eyes and + saw the great figure of Timmendiquas striding forward, his hand upraised + in protest. + </p> + <p> + The woman turned her fierce gaze upon the young chief. “Timmendiquas,” she + said, “we are the Iroquois, and we are the masters. You are far from your + own land, a guest in our lodges, and you cannot tell those who have won + the victory how they shall use it. Stand back!” + </p> + <p> + A loud laugh came from the Iroquois. The fierce old chiefs, Hiokatoo and + Sangerachte, and a dozen warriors thrust themselves before Timmendiquas. + The woman resumed her chant, and a hundred throats pealed out with her the + chorus: + </p> + <p> + Victory and glory Aieroski gives to his children The mighty Six Nations, + greatest of men. + </p> + <p> + She gave the signal anew. The ninth victim stood before her, and then + fell, cloven to the chin; then the tenth, and the eleventh, and the + twelfth, and the thirteenth, and the fourteenth, and the fifteenth, and + the sixteenth-sixteen bound men killed by one woman in less than fifteen + minutes. The four in that group who were left had all the while been + straining fearfully at their bonds. Now they had slipped or broken them, + and, springing to their feet, driven on by the mightiest of human + impulses, they dashed through the ring of Iroquois and into the forest. + Two were hunted down by the warriors and killed, but the other two, Joseph + Elliott and Lebbeus Hammond, escaped and lived to be old men, feeling that + life could never again hold for them anything so dreadful as that scene at + “The Bloody Rock.” + </p> + <p> + A great turmoil and confusion arose as the prisoners fled and the Indians + pursued. Paul and Shif'less Sol; full of sympathy and pity for the + fugitives and having felt all the time that their turn, too, would come + under that dreadful tomahawk, struggled to their feet. They did not see a + form slip noiselessly behind them, but a sharp knife descended once, then + twice, and the bands of both fell free. + </p> + <p> + “Run! run!” exclaimed the voice of Timmendiquas, low but penetrating. “I + would save you from this!” + </p> + <p> + Amid the darkness and confusion the act of the great Wyandot was not seen + by the other Indians and the renegades. Paul flashed him one look of + gratitude, and then he and Shif'less Sol darted away, choosing a course + that led them from the crowd in pursuit of the other flying fugitives. + </p> + <p> + At such a time they might have secured a long lead without being noticed, + had it not been for the fierce swarm of old squaws who were first in + cruelty that night. A shrill wild howl arose, and the pointing fingers of + the old women showed to the warriors the two in flight. At the same time + several of the squaws darted forward to intercept the fugitives. + </p> + <p> + “I hate to hit a woman,” breathed Shif'less Sol to Paul, “but I'm goin' to + do it now.” + </p> + <p> + A hideous figure sprang before them. Sol struck her face with his open + hand, and with a shriek she went down. He leaped over her, although she + clawed at his feet as he passed, and ran on, with Paul at his side. Shots + were now fired at him, but they went wild, but Paul, casting a look + backward out of the corner of his eye, saw that a real pursuit, silent and + deadly, had begun. Five Mohawk warriors, running swiftly, were only a few + hundred yards away. They carried rifle, tomahawk, and knife, and Paul and + Shif'less Sol were unarmed. Moreover, they were coming fast, spreading out + slightly, and the shiftless one, able even at such a time to weigh the + case coolly, saw that the odds were against them. Yet he would not + despair. Anything might happen. It was night. There was little + organization in the army of the Indians and of their white allies, which + was giving itself up to the enjoyment of scalps and torture. Moreover, he + and Paul were, animated by the love of life, which is always stronger than + the desire to give death. + </p> + <p> + Their flight led them in a diagonal line toward the mountains. Only once + did the pursuers give tongue. Paul tripped over a root, and a triumphant + yell came from the Mohawks. But it merely gave him new life. He recovered + himself in an instant and ran faster. But it was terribly hard work. He + could hear Shif'less Sol's sobbing breath by his side, and he was sure + that his own must have the same sound for his comrade. + </p> + <p> + “At any rate one uv 'em is beat,” gasped Shif'less Sol. “Only four are + ban-in' on now.” + </p> + <p> + The ground rose a little and became rougher. The lights from the Indian + fires had sunk almost out of sight behind them, and a dense thicket lay + before them. Something stirred in the thicket, and the eyes of Shif'less + Sol caught a glimpse of a human shoulder. His heart sank like a plummet in + a pool. The Indians were ahead of them. They would be caught, and would be + carried back to become the victims of the terrible tomahawk. + </p> + <p> + The figure in the bushes rose a little higher, the muzzle of a rifle was + projected, and flame leaped from the steel tube. + </p> + <p> + But it was neither Shif'less Sol nor Paul who fell. They heard a cry + behind them, and when Shif'less Sol took a hasty glance backward he saw + one of the Mohawks fall. The three who were left hesitated and stopped. + When a second shot was fired from the bushes and another Mohawk went down, + the remaining two fled. + </p> + <p> + Shif'less Sol understood now, and he rushed into the bushes, dragging Paul + after him. Henry, Tom, and Long Jim rose up to receive them. + </p> + <p> + “So you wuz watchin' over us!” exclaimed the shiftless one joyously. “It + wuz you that clipped off the first Mohawk, an' we didn't even notice the + shot.” + </p> + <p> + “Thank God, you were here!” exclaimed Paul. “You don't know what Sol and I + have seen!” + </p> + <p> + Overwrought, he fell forward, but his comrades caught him. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0011" id="link2HCH0011"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XI. THE MELANCHOLY FLIGHT + </h2> + <p> + Paul revived in a few minutes. They were still lying in the bushes, and + when he was able to stand up again, they moved at an angle several hundred + yards before they stopped. One pistol was thrust into Paul's hand and + another into that of Shif'less Sol. + </p> + <p> + “Keep those until we can get rifles for you,” said Henry. “You may need + 'em to-night.” + </p> + <p> + They crouched down in the thicket and looked back toward the Indian camp. + The warriors whom they had repulsed were not returning with help, and, for + the moment, they seemed to have no enemy to fear, yet they could still see + through the woods the faint lights of the Indian camps, and to Paul, at + least, came the echoes of distant cries that told of things not to be + written. + </p> + <p> + “We saw you captured, and we heard Sol's warning cry,” said Henry. “There + was nothing to do but run. Then we hid and waited a chance for rescue.” + </p> + <p> + “It would never have come if it had not been for Timmendiquas,” said Paul. + </p> + <p> + “Timmendiquas!” exclaimed Henry. + </p> + <p> + “Yes, Timmendiquas,” said Paul, and then he told the story of “The Bloody + Rock,” and how, in the turmoil and excitement attending the flight of the + last four, Timmendiquas had cut the bonds of Shif'less Sol and himself. + </p> + <p> + “I think the mind o' White Lightnin', Injun ez he is,” said Shif'less Sol, + “jest naterally turned aginst so much slaughter an' torture o' prisoners.” + </p> + <p> + “I'm sure you're right,” said Henry. + </p> + <p> + “'Pears strange to me,” said Long Jim Hart, “that Timmendiquas was made an + Injun. He's jest the kind uv man who ought to be white, an' he'd be + pow'ful useful, too. I don't jest eggzactly understan' it.” + </p> + <p> + “He has certainly saved the lives of at least three of us,” said Henry. “I + hope we will get a chance to pay him back in full.” + </p> + <p> + “But he's the only one,” said Shif'less Sol, thinking of all that he had + seen that night. “The Iroquois an' the white men that's allied with 'em + won't ever get any mercy from me, ef any uv 'em happen to come under my + thumb. I don't think the like o' this day an' night wuz ever done on this + continent afore. I'm for revenge, I am, like that place where the Bible + says, 'an eye for an eye, an' a tooth for a tooth,' an' I'm goin' to stay + in this part o' the country till we git it!” + </p> + <p> + It was seldom that Shif'less Sol spoke with so much passion and energy. + </p> + <p> + “We're all going to stay with you, Sol,” said Henry. “We're needed here. I + think we ought to circle about the fort, slip in if we can, and fight with + the defense.” + </p> + <p> + “Yes, we'll do that,” said Shif'less Sol, “but the Wyoming fort can't ever + hold out. Thar ain't a hundred men left in it fit to fight, an' thar are + more than than a thousand howlin' devils outside ready to attack it. Thar + may be worse to come than anything we've yet seen.” + </p> + <p> + “Still, we'll go in an' help,” said Henry. “Sol, when you an' Paul have + rested a little longer we'll make a big loop around in the woods, and come + up to the fort on the other side.” + </p> + <p> + They were in full accord, and after an hour in the bushes, where they lay + completely hidden, recovering their vitality and energy, they undertook to + reach the fort and cabins inclosed by the palisades. Paul was still weak + from shock, but Shif'less Sol had fully recovered. Neither bad weapons, + but they were sure that the want could be supplied soon. They curved + around toward the west, intending to approach the fort from the other + side, but they did not wholly lose sight of the fires, and they heard now + and then the triumphant war whoop. The victors were still engaged in the + pleasant task of burning the prisoners to death. Little did the five, + seeing and feeling only their part of it there in the dark woods, dream + that the deeds of this day and night would soon shock the whole civilized + world, and remain, for generations, a crowning act of infamy. But they + certainly felt it deeply enough, and in each heart burned a fierce desire + for revenge upon the Iroquois. + </p> + <p> + It was almost midnight when they secured entrance into the fort, which was + filled with grief and wailing. That afternoon more than one hundred and + fifty women within those walls had been made widows, and six hundred + children had been made orphans. But few men fit to bear arms were left for + its defense, and it was certain that the allied British and Indian army + would easily take it on the morrow. A demand for its surrender in the name + of King George III of England had already been made, and, sitting at a + little rough table in the cabin of Thomas Bennett, the room lighted only + by a single tallow wick, Colonel Butler and Colonel Dennison were writing + an agreement that the fort be surrendered the next day, with what it + should contain. But Colonel Butler put his wife on a horse and escaped + with her over the mountains. + </p> + <p> + Stragglers, evading the tomahawk in the darkness, were coming in, only to + be surrendered the next day; others were pouring forth in a stream, + seeking the shelter of the mountains and the forest, preferring any + dangers that might be found there to the mercies of the victors. + </p> + <p> + When Shif'less Sol learned that the fort was to be given up, he said: + </p> + <p> + “It looks ez ef we had escaped from the Iroquois jest in time to beg 'em + to take us back.” + </p> + <p> + “I reckon I ain't goin' to stay 'roun' here while things are bein' + surrendered,” said Long Jim Hart. + </p> + <p> + “I'll do my surrenderin' to Iroquois when they've got my hands an' feet + tied, an' six or seven uv 'em are settin' on my back,” said Tom Ross. + </p> + <p> + “We'll leave as soon as we can get arms for Sol and Paul,” said Henry. “Of + course it would be foolish of us to stay here and be captured again. + Besides, we'll be needed badly enough by the women and children that are + going.” + </p> + <p> + Good weapons were easily obtained in the fort. It was far better to let + Sol and Paul have them than to leave them for the Indians. They were able + to select two fine rifles of the Kentucky pattern, long and slender + barreled, a tomahawk and knife for each, and also excellent + double-barreled pistols. The other three now had double-barreled pistols, + too. In addition they resupplied themselves with as much ammunition as + scouts and hunters could conveniently carry, and toward morning left the + fort. + </p> + <p> + Sunrise found them some distance from the palisades, and upon the flank of + a frightened crowd of fugitives. It was composed of one hundred women and + children and a single man, James Carpenter, who was doing his best to + guide and protect them. They were intending to flee through the wilderness + to the Delaware and Lehigh settlements, chiefly Fort Penn, built by Jacob + Stroud, where Stroudsburg now is. + </p> + <p> + When the five, darkened by weather and looking almost like Indians + themselves, approached, Carpenter stepped forward and raised his rifle. A + cry of dismay rose from the melancholy line, a cry so intensely bitter + that it cut Henry to the very heart. He threw up his hand, and exclaimed + in a loud voice: + </p> + <p> + “We are friends, not Indians or Tories! We fought with you yesterday, and + we are ready to fight for you now!” + </p> + <p> + Carpenter dropped the muzzle of the rifle. He had fought in the battle, + too, and he recognized the great youth and his comrades who had been there + with him. + </p> + <p> + “What do you want of us?” asked he. + </p> + <p> + “Nothing,” replied Henry, “except to help you.” + </p> + <p> + Carpenter looked at them with a kind of sad pathos. + </p> + <p> + “You don't belong here in Wyoming,” he said, “and there's nothing to make + you stick to us. What are you meaning to do?” + </p> + <p> + “We will go with you wherever you intend to go,” replied Henry; “do + fighting for you if you need it, and hunt game for you, which you are + certain to need.” + </p> + <p> + The weather-beaten face of the farmer worked. + </p> + <p> + “I thought God had clean deserted us,” he said, “but I'm ready to take it + back. I reckon that he has sent you five to help me with all these women + and little ones.” + </p> + <p> + It occurred to Henry that perhaps God, indeed, had sent them for this very + purpose, but he replied simply: + </p> + <p> + “You lead on, and we'll stay in the rear and on the sides to watch for the + Indians. Draw into the woods, where we'll be hidden.” + </p> + <p> + Carpenter, obscure hero, shouldered his rifle again, and led on toward the + woods. The long line of women and children followed. Some of the women + carried in their arms children too small to walk. Yet they were more + hopeful now when they saw that the five were friends. These lithe, active + frontiersmen, so quick, so skillful, and so helpful, raised their courage. + Yet it was a most doleful flight. Most of these women had been made widows + the day before, some of them had been made widows and childless at the + same time, and wondered why they should seek to live longer. But the very + mental stupor of many of them was an aid. They ceased to cry out, and some + even ceased to be afraid. + </p> + <p> + Henry, Shif'less Sol, and Tom dropped to the rear. Paul and Long Jim were + on either flank, while Carpenter led slowly on toward the mountains. + </p> + <p> + “'Pears to me,” said Tom, “that the thing fur us to do is to hurry 'em up + ez much ez possible.” + </p> + <p> + “So the Indians won't see 'em crossing the plain,” said Henry. “We + couldn't defend them against a large force, and it would merely be a + massacre. We must persuade them to walk faster.” + </p> + <p> + Shif'less Sol was invaluable in this crisis. He could talk forever in + his-placid way, and, with his gentle encouragement, mild sarcasm, and + anecdotes of great feminine walkers that he had known, he soon had them + moving faster. + </p> + <p> + Henry and Tom dropped farther to the rear. They could see ahead of them + the long dark line, coiling farther into the woods, but they could also + see to right and left towers of smoke rising in the clear morning + sunlight. These, they knew, came from burning houses, and they knew, also, + that the valley would be ravaged from end to end and from side to side. + After the surrender of the fort the Indians would divide into small bands, + going everywhere, and nothing could escape them. + </p> + <p> + The sun rose higher, gilding the earth with glowing light, as if the black + tragedy had never happened, but the frontiersmen recognized their greatest + danger in this brilliant morning. Objects could be seen at a great + distance, and they could be seen vividly. + </p> + <p> + Keen of sight and trained to know what it was they saw, Henry, Sol, and + Tom searched the country with their eyes, on all sides. They caught a + distant glimpse of the Susquehanna, a silver spot among some trees, and + they saw the sunlight glancing off the opposite mountains, but for the + present they saw nothing that seemed hostile. + </p> + <p> + They allowed the distance between them and the retreating file to grow + until it was five or six hundred yards, and they might have let it grow + farther, but Henry made a signal, and the three lay down in the grass. + </p> + <p> + “You see 'em, don't you!” the youth whispered to his comrade. + </p> + <p> + “Yes, down thar at the foot o' that hillock,” replied Shif'less Sol; “two + o' em, an' Senecas, I take it.” + </p> + <p> + “They've seen that crowd of women and children,” said Henry. + </p> + <p> + It was obvious that the flying column was discovered. The two Indians + stepped upon the hillock and gazed under their hands. It was too far away + for the three to see their faces, but they knew the joy that would be + shown there. The two could return with a few warriors and massacre them + all. + </p> + <p> + “They must never get back to the other Indians with their news,” whispered + Henry. “I hate to shoot men from ambush, but it's got to be done. Wait, + they're coming a little closer.” + </p> + <p> + The two Senecas advanced about thirty yards, and stopped again. + </p> + <p> + “S'pose you fire at the one on the right, Henry,” said Tom, “an' me an' + Sol will take the one to the left.” + </p> + <p> + “All right,” said Henry. “Fire!” + </p> + <p> + They wasted no time, but pulled trigger. The one at whom Henry had aimed + fell, but the other, uttering a cry, made off, wounded, but evidently with + plenty of strength left. + </p> + <p> + “We mustn't let him escape! We mustn't let him carry a warning!” cried + Henry. + </p> + <p> + But Shif'less Sol and Tom Ross were already in pursuit, covering the + ground with long strides, and reloading as they ran. Under ordinary + circumstances no one of the three would have fired at a man running for + his life, but here the necessity was vital. If he lived, carrying the tale + that he had to tell, a hundred innocent ones might perish. Henry followed + his comrades, reloading his own rifle, also, but he stayed behind. The + Indian had a good lead, and he was gaining, as the others were compelled + to check speed somewhat as they put the powder and bullets in their + rifles. But Henry was near enough to Shif'less Sol and Silent Tom to hear + them exchange a few words. + </p> + <p> + “How far away is that savage?” asked Shif'less Sol. + </p> + <p> + “Hundred and eighty yards,” said Tom Ross. + </p> + <p> + “Well, you take him in the head, and I'll take him in the body.” + </p> + <p> + Henry saw the two rifle barrels go up and two flashes of flame leap from + the muzzles. The Indian fell forward and lay still. They went up to him, + and found that he was shot through the head and also through the body. + </p> + <p> + “We may miss once, but we don't twice,” said Tom Ross. + </p> + <p> + The human mind can be influenced so powerfully by events that the three + felt no compunction at all at the shooting of this fleeing Indian. It was + but a trifle compared with what they had seen the day and night before. + </p> + <p> + “We'd better take the weapons an' ammunition o' both uv 'em,” said Sol. + “They may be needed, an' some o' the women in that crowd kin shoot.” + </p> + <p> + They gathered up the arms, powder, and ball, and waited a little to see + whether the shots had been heard by any other Indians, but there was no + indication of the presence of more warriors, and the rejoined the + fugitives. Long Jim had dropped back to the end of the line, and when he + saw that his comrades carried two extra rifles, he understood. + </p> + <p> + “They didn't give no alarm, did they?” he asked in a tone so low that none + of the fugitives could hear. + </p> + <p> + “They didn't have any chance,” replied Henry. “We've brought away all + their weapons and ammunition, but just say to the women that we found them + in an abandoned house.” + </p> + <p> + The rifles and the other arms were given to the boldest and most stalwart + of the women, and they promised to use them if the need came. Meanwhile + the flight went on, and the farther it went the sadder it became. Children + became exhausted, and had to be carried by people so tired that they could + scarcely walk themselves. There was nobody in the line who had not lost + some beloved one on that fatal river bank, killed in battle, or tortured + to death. As they slowly ascended the green slope of the mountain that + inclosed a side of the valley, they looked back upon ruin and desolation. + The whole black tragedy was being consummated. They could see the houses + in flames, and they knew that the Indian war parties were killing and + scalping everywhere. They knew, too, that other bodies of fugitives, as + stricken as their own, were fleeing into the mountains, they scarcely knew + whither. + </p> + <p> + As they paused a few moments and looked back, a great cry burst from the + weakest of the women and children. Then it became a sad and terrible wail, + and it was a long time before it ceased. It was an awful sound, so + compounded of despair and woe and of longing for what they had lost that + Henry choked, and the tears stood in Paul's eyes. But neither the five nor + Carpenter made any attempt to check the wailing. They thought it best for + them to weep it out, but they hurried the column as much as they could, + often carrying some of the smaller children themselves. Paul and Long Jim + were the best as comforters. The two knew how, each in his own way, to + soothe and encourage. Carpenter, who knew the way to Fort Penn, led + doggedly on, scarcely saying a word. Henry, Shif'less Sol, and Tom were + the rear guard, which was, in this case, the one of greatest danger and + responsibility. + </p> + <p> + Henry was thankful that it was only early summer the Fourth of July, the + second anniversary of the Declaration of Independence-and that the foliage + was heavy and green on the slopes of the mountain. In this mass of + greenery the desolate column was now completely hidden from any observer + in the valley, and he believed that other crowds of fugitives would be + hidden in the same manner. He felt sure that no living human being would + be left in the valley, that it would be ravaged from end to end and then + left to desolation, until new people, protected by American bayonets, + should come in and settle it again. + </p> + <p> + At last they passed the crest of the ridge, and the fires in the valley, + those emblems of destruction, were hidden. Between them and Fort Penn, + sixty miles away, stretched a wilderness of mountain, forest, and swamp. + But the five welcomed the forest. A foe might lie there in ambush, but + they could not see the fugitives at a distance. What the latter needed now + was obscurity, the green blanket of the forest to hide them. Carpenter led + on over a narrow trail; the others followed almost in single file now, + while the five scouted in the woods on either flank and at the rear. Henry + and Shif'less Sol generally kept together, and they fully realized the + overwhelming danger should an Indian band, even as small as ten or a dozen + warriors, appear. Should the latter scatter, it would be impossible to + protect all the women and children from their tomahawks. + </p> + <p> + The day was warm, but the forest gave them coolness as well as shelter. + Henry and Sol were seldom so far back that they could not see the end of + the melancholy line, now moving slowly, overborne by weariness. The + shiftless one shook his head sadly. + </p> + <p> + “No matter what happens, some uv 'em will never get out o' these woods.” + </p> + <p> + His words came true all too soon. Before the afternoon closed, two women, + ill before the flight, died of terror and exhaustion, and were buried in + shallow graves under the trees. Before dark a halt was made at the + suggestion of Henry, and all except Carpenter and the scouts sat in a + close, drooping group. Many of the children cried, though the women had + all ceased to weep. They had some food with them, taken in the hurried + flight, and now the men asked them to eat. Few could do it, and others + insisted on saving what little they had for the children. Long Jim found a + spring near by, and all drank at it. + </p> + <p> + The six men decided that, although night had not yet come, it would be + best to remain there until the morning. Evidently the fugitives were in no + condition, either mental or physical, to go farther that day, and the rest + was worth more than the risk. + </p> + <p> + When this decision was announced to them, most of the women took it + apathetically. Soon they lay down upon a blanket, if one was to be had; + otherwise, on leaves and branches. Again Henry thanked God that it was + summer, and that these were people of the frontier, who could sleep in the + open. No fire was needed, and, outside of human enemies, only rain was to + be dreaded. + </p> + <p> + And yet this band, desperate though its case, was more fortunate than some + of the others that fled from the Wyoming Valley. It had now to protect it + six men Henry and Paul, though boys in years, were men in strength and + ability—five of whom were the equals of any frontiersmen on the + whole border. Another crowd of women was escorted by a single man + throughout its entire flight. + </p> + <p> + Henry and his comrades distributed themselves in a circle about the group. + At times they helped gather whortleberries as food for the others, but + they looked for Indians or game, intending to shoot in either case. When + Paul and Henry were together they once heard a light sound in a thicket, + which at first they were afraid was made by an Indian scout, but it was a + deer, and it bounded away too soon for either to get a shot. They could + not find other game of any kind, and they came back toward the camp-if a + mere stop in the woods, without shelter of any kind, could be called a + camp. + </p> + <p> + The sun was now setting, blood red. It tinged the forest with a fiery + mist, reminding the unhappy group of all that they had seen. But the mist + was gone in a few moments, and then the blackness of night came with a + weird moaning wind that told of desolation. Most of the children, having + passed through every phase of exhaustion and terror, had fallen asleep. + Some of the women slept, also, and others wept. But the terrible wailing + note, which the nerves of no man could stand, was heard no longer. + </p> + <p> + The five gathered again at a point near by, and Carpenter came to them. + </p> + <p> + “Men,” he said simply, “don't know much about you, though I know you + fought well in the battle that we lost, but for what you're doin' now + nobody can ever repay you. I knew that I never could get across the + mountains with all these weak ones.” + </p> + <p> + The five merely said that any man who was a man would help at such a time. + Then they resumed their march in a perpetual circle about the camp. + </p> + <p> + Some women did not sleep at all that night. It is not easy to conceive + what the frontier women of America endured so many thousands of times. + They had seen their husbands, brothers, and sons killed in the battle, and + they knew that the worst of torture had been practiced in the Indian camp. + Many of them really did not want to live any longer. They merely struggled + automatically for life. The darkness settled down thicker and thicker; the + blackness in the forest was intense, and they could see the faces of one + another only at a little distance. The desolate moan of the wind came + through the leaves, and, although it was July, the night grew cold. The + women crept closer together, trying to cover up and protect the children. + The wind, with its inexpressibly mournful note, was exactly fitted to + their feelings. Many of them wondered why a Supreme Being had permitted + such things. But they ceased to talk. No sound at all came from the group, + and any one fifty yards away, not forewarned, could not have told that + they were there. + </p> + <p> + Henry and Paul met again about midnight, and sat a long time on a little + hillock. Theirs had been the most dangerous of lives on the most dangerous + of frontiers, but they had never been stirred as they were tonight. Even + Paul, the mildest of the five, felt something burning within him, a fire + that only one thing could quench. + </p> + <p> + “Henry,” said he, “we're trying to get these people to Fort Penn, and we + may get some of them there, but I don't think our work will be ended them. + I don't think I could ever be happy again if we went straight from Fort + Penn to Kentucky.” + </p> + <p> + Henry understood him perfectly. + </p> + <p> + “No, Paul,” he said, “I don't want to go, either, and I know the others + don't. Maybe you are not willing to tell why we want to stay, but it is + vengeance. I know it's Christian to forgive your enemies, but I can't see + what I have seen, and hear what I have heard, and do it.” + </p> + <p> + “When the news of these things spreads,” said Paul, “they'll send an army + from the east. Sooner or later they'll just have to do it to punish the + Iroquois and their white allies, and we've got to be here to join that + army.” + </p> + <p> + “I feel that way, too, Paul,” said Henry. + </p> + <p> + They were joined later by the other three, who stayed a little while, and + they were in accord with Henry and Paul. + </p> + <p> + Then they began their circles about the camp again, always looking and + always listening. About two o'clock in the morning they heard a scream, + but it was only the cry of a panther. Before day there were clouds, a low + rumble of distant thunder, and faint far flashes of lightning. Henry was + in dread of rain, but the lightning and thunder ceased, and the clouds + went away. Then dawn came, rosy and bright, and all but three rose from + the earth. The three-one woman and two children-had died in silence in the + night, and they were buried, like the others, in shallow graves in the + woods. But there was little weeping or external mourning over them. All + were now heavy and apathetic, capable of but little more emotion. + </p> + <p> + Carpenter resumed his position at the head of the column, which now moved + slowly over the mountain through a thick forest matted with vines and + bushes and without a path. The march was now so painful and difficult that + they did not make more than two miles an hour. The stronger of them helped + the men to gather more whortleberries, as it was easy to see that the food + they had with them would never last until they reached Fort Penn, should + they ever reach it. + </p> + <p> + The condition of the country into which they had entered steadily grew + worse. They were well into the mountains, a region exceedingly wild and + rough, but little known to the settlers, who had gone around it to build + homes in the fertile and beautiful valley of Wyoming. The heavy forest was + made all the more difficult by the presence everywhere of almost + impassable undergrowth. Now and then a woman lay down under the bushes, + and in two cases they died there because the power to live was no longer + in them. They grew weaker and weaker. The food that they had brought from + the Wyoming fort was almost exhausted, and the wild whortleberries were + far from sustaining. Fortunately there was plenty of water flowing tinder + the dark woods and along the mountainside. But they were compelled to stop + at intervals of an hour or two to rest, and the more timid continually + expected Indian ambush. + </p> + <p> + The five met shortly after noon and took another reckoning of the + situation. They still realized to the full the dangers of Indian pursuit, + which in this case might be a mere matter of accident. Anybody could + follow the broad trail left by the fugitives, but the Iroquois, busy with + destruction in the valley, might not follow, even if they saw it. No one + could tell. The danger of starvation or of death from exhaustion was more + imminent, more pressing, and the five resolved to let scouting alone for + the rest of the day and seek game. + </p> + <p> + “There's bound to be a lot of it in these woods,” said Shif'less Sol, + “though it's frightened out of the path by our big crowd, but we ought to + find it.” + </p> + <p> + Henry and Shif'less Sol went in one direction, and Paul, Tom, and Long Jim + in another. But with all their hunting they succeeded in finding only one + little deer, which fell to the rifle of Silent Tom. It made small enough + portions for the supper and breakfast of nearly a hundred people, but it + helped wonderfully, and so did the fires which Henry and his comrades + would now have built, even had they not been needed for the cooking. They + saw that light and warmth, the light and warmth of glowing coals, would + alone rouse life in this desolate band. + </p> + <p> + They slept the second night on the ground among the trees, and the next + morning they entered that gloomy region of terrible memory, the Great + Dismal Swamp of the North, known sometimes, to this day, as “The Shades of + Death.” + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0012" id="link2HCH0012"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XII. THE SHADES OF DEATH + </h2> + <p> + “The Shades of Death” is a marsh on a mountain top, the great, wet, and + soggy plain of the Pocono and Broad mountains. When the fugitives from + Wyoming entered it, it was covered with a dense growth of pines, growing + mostly out of dark, murky water, which in its turn was thick with a growth + of moss and aquatic plants. Snakes and all kinds of creeping things + swarmed in the ooze. Bear and panther were numerous. + </p> + <p> + Carpenter did not know any way around this terrible region, and they were + compelled to enter it. Henry was again devoutly thankful that it was + summer. In such a situation with winter on top of it only the hardiest of + men could survive. + </p> + <p> + But they entered the swamp, Carpenter silent and dogged, still leading. + Henry and his comrades kept close to the crowd. One could not scout in + such a morass, and it proved to be worse than they had feared. The day + turned gray, and it was dark among the trees. The whole place was filled + with gloomy shadows. It was often impossible to judge whether fairly solid + soil or oozy murk lay before them. Often they went down to their waists. + Sometimes the children fell and were dragged up again by the stronger. Now + and then rattle snakes coiled and hissed, and the women killed them with + sticks. Other serpents slipped away in the slime. Everybody was plastered + with mud, and they became mere images of human beings. + </p> + <p> + In the afternoon they reached a sort of oasis in the terrible swamp, and + there they buried two more of their number who had perished from + exhaustion. The rest, save a few, lay upon the ground as if dead. On all + sides of them stretched the pines and the soft black earth. It looked to + the fugitives like a region into which no human beings had ever come, or + ever would come again, and, alas! to most of them like a region from which + no human being would ever emerge. + </p> + <p> + Henry sat upon a piece of fallen brushwood near the edge of the morass, + and looked at the fugitives, and his heart sank within him. They were + hardly in the likeness of his own kind, and they seemed practically + lifeless now. Everything was dull, heavy, and dead. The note of the wind + among the leaves was somber. A long black snake slipped from the marshy + grass near his feet and disappeared soundlessly in the water. He was sick, + sick to death at the sight of so much suffering, and the desire for + vengeance, slow, cold, and far more lasting than any hot outburst, grew + within him. A slight noise, and Shif'less Sol stood beside him. + </p> + <p> + “Did you hear?” asked the shiftless one, in a significant tone. + </p> + <p> + “Hear what?” asked Henry, who had been deep in thought. + </p> + <p> + “The wolf howl, just a very little cry, very far away an' under the + horizon, but thar all the same. Listen, thar she goes ag'in!” + </p> + <p> + Henry bent his ear and distinctly heard the faint, whining note, and then + it came a third time. + </p> + <p> + He looked tip at Shif'less Sol, and his face grew white—but not for + himself. + </p> + <p> + “Yes,” said Shif'less Sol. He understood the look. “We are pursued. Them + wolves howlin' are the Iroquois. What do you reckon we're goin' to do, + Henry?” + </p> + <p> + “Fight!” replied the youth, with fierce energy. “Beat 'em off!” + </p> + <p> + “How?” + </p> + <p> + Henry circled the little oasis with the eye of a general, and his plan + came. + </p> + <p> + “You'll stand here, where the earth gives a footing,” he said, “you, + Solomon Hyde, as brave a man as I ever saw, and with you will be Paul + Cotter, Tom Ross, Jim Hart, and Henry Ware, old friends of yours. + Carpenter will at once lead the women and children on ahead, and perhaps + they will not hear the battle that is going to be fought here.” + </p> + <p> + A smile of approval, slow, but deep and comprehensive, stole over the face + of Solomon Hyde, surnamed, wholly without fitness, the shiftless one. “It + seems to me,” he said, “that I've heard o' them four fellers you're + talkin' about, an' ef I wuz to hunt all over this planet an' them other + planets that Paul tells of, I couldn't find four other fellers that I'd ez + soon have with me.” + </p> + <p> + “We've got to stand here to the death,” said Henry. + </p> + <p> + “You're shorely right,” said Shif'less Sol. + </p> + <p> + The hands of the two comrades met in a grip of steel. + </p> + <p> + The other three were called and were told of the plan, which met with + their full approval. Then the news was carried to Carpenter, who quickly + agreed that their course was the wisest. He urged all the fugitives to + their feet, telling them that they must reach another dry place before + night, but they were past asking questions now, and, heavy and apathetic, + they passed on into the swamp. + </p> + <p> + Paul watched the last of them disappear among the black bushes and weeds, + and turned back to his friends on the oasis. The five lay down behind a + big fallen pine, and gave their weapons a last look. They had never been + armed better. Their rifles were good, and the fine double-barreled + pistols, formidable weapons, would be a great aid, especially at close + quarters. + </p> + <p> + “I take it,” said Tom Ross, “that the Iroquois can't get through at all + unless they come along this way, an' it's the same ez ef we wuz settin' on + solid earth, poppin' em over, while they come sloshin' up to us.” + </p> + <p> + “That's exactly it,” said Henry. “We've a natural defense which we can + hold against much greater numbers, and the longer we hold 'em off, the + nearer our people will be to Fort Penn.” + </p> + <p> + “I never felt more like fightin' in my life,” said Tom Ross. + </p> + <p> + It was a grim utterance, true of them all, although not one among them was + bloodthirsty. + </p> + <p> + “Can any of you hear anything?” asked Henry. “Nothin',” replied Shif'less + Sol, after a little wait, “nothin' from the women goin', an' nothin' from + the Iroquois comin'.” + </p> + <p> + “We'll just lie close,” said Henry. “This hard spot of ground isn't more + than thirty or forty feet each way, and nobody can get on it without our + knowing it.” + </p> + <p> + The others did not reply. All lay motionless upon their sides, with their + shoulders raised a little, in order that they might take instant aim when + the time came. Some rays of the sun penetrated the canopy of pines, and + fell across the brown, determined faces and the lean brown hands that + grasped the long, slender-barreled Kentucky rifles. Another snake slipped + from the ground into the black water and swam away. Some water animal made + a light splash as he, too, swam from the presence of these strange + intruders. Then they beard a sighing sound, as of a foot drawn from mud, + and they knew that the Iroquois were approaching, savages in war, whatever + they might be otherwise, and expecting an easy prey. Five brown thumbs + cocked their rifles, and five brown forefingers rested upon the triggers. + The eyes of woodsmen who seldom missed looked down the sights. + </p> + <p> + The sound of feet in the mud came many times. The enemy was evidently + drawing near. + </p> + <p> + “How many do you think are out thar?” whispered Shif'less Sol to Henry. + </p> + <p> + “Twenty, at least, it seems to me by the sounds.” “I s'pose the best thing + for us to do is to shoot at the first head we see.” + </p> + <p> + “Yes, but we mustn't all fire at the same man.” + </p> + <p> + It was suggested that Henry call off the turns of the marksmen, and he + agreed to do so. Shif'less Sol was to fire first. The sounds now ceased. + The Iroquois evidently had some feeling or instinct that they were + approaching an enemy who was to be feared, not weak and unarmed women and + children. + </p> + <p> + The five were absolutely motionless, finger on trigger. The American + wilderness had heroes without number. It was Horatius Cocles five times + over, ready to defend the bridge with life. Over the marsh rose the weird + cry of an owl, and some water birds called in lonely fashion. + </p> + <p> + Henry judged that the fugitives were now three quarters of a mile away, + out of the sound of rifle shot. He had urged Carpenter to marshal them on + as far as he could. But the silence endured yet a while longer. In the + dull gray light of the somber day and the waning afternoon the marsh was + increasingly dreary and mournful. It seemed that it must always be the + abode of dead or dying things. + </p> + <p> + The wet grass, forty yards away, moved a little, and between the boughs + appeared the segment of a hideous dark face, the painted brow, the savage + black eyes, and the hooked nose of the Mohawk. Only Henry saw it, but with + fierce joy-the tortures at Wyoming leaped up before him-he fired at the + painted brow. The Mohawk uttered his death cry and fell back with a splash + into the mud and water of the swamp. A half dozen bullets were instantly + fired at the base of the smoke that came from Henry's rifle, but the youth + and his comrades lay close and were unharmed. Shif'less Sol and Tom were + quick enough to catch glimpses of brown forms, at which they fired, and + the cries coming back told that they had hit. + </p> + <p> + “That's something,” said Henry. “One or two Iroquois at least will not + wear the scalp of white woman or child at their belts.” + </p> + <p> + “Wish they'd try to rush us,” said Shif'less Sol. “I never felt so full of + fight in my life before.” + </p> + <p> + “They may try it,” said Henry. “I understand that at the big battle of the + Oriskany, farther up in the North, the Iroquois would wait until a white + man behind a tree would fire, then they would rush up and tomahawk him + before he could reload.” + </p> + <p> + “They don't know how fast we kin reload,” said Long Jim, “an' they don't + know that we've got these double-barreled pistols, either.” + </p> + <p> + “No, they don't,” said Henry, “and it's a great thing for us to have them. + Suppose we spread out a little. So long as we keep them from getting a + lodging on the solid earth we hold them at a great disadvantage.” + </p> + <p> + Henry and Paul moved off a little toward the right, and the others toward + the left. They still had good cover, as fallen timber was scattered all + over the oasis, and they were quite sure that another attack would be made + soon. It came in about fifteen minutes. The Iroquois suddenly fired a + volley at the logs and brush, and when the five returned the fire, but + with more deadly effect, they leaped forward in the mud and attempted to + rush the oasis, tomahawk in hand. + </p> + <p> + But the five reloaded so quickly that they were able to send in a second + volley before the foremost of the Iroquois could touch foot on solid + earth. Then the double barreled pistols came into play. The bullets sent + from short range drove back the savages, who were amazed at such a deadly + and continued fire. Henry caught sight of a white face among these + assailants, and he knew it to be that of Braxton Wyatt. Singularly enough + he was not amazed to see it there. Wyatt, sinking deeper and deeper into + savagery and cruelty, was just the one to lead the Iroquois in such a + pursuit. He was a fit match for Walter Butler, the infamous son of the + Indian leader, who was soon to prove himself worse than the worst of the + savages, as Thayendanegea himself has written. + </p> + <p> + Henry drew a bead once on Braxton Wyatt-he had no scruples now about + shooting him-but just as he was about to pull the trigger Wyatt darted + behind a bush, and a Seneca instead received the bullet. He also saw the + renegade, Blackstaffe, but he was not able to secure a shot at him, + either. Nevertheless, the Iroquois attack was beaten back. It was a + foregone conclusion that the result would be so, unless the force was in + great numbers. It is likely, also, that the Iroquois at first had thought + only a single man was with the fugitives, not knowing that the five had + joined them later. + </p> + <p> + Two of the Iroquois were slain at the very edge of the solid ground, but + their bodies fell back in the slime, and the others, retreating fast for + their lives, could not carry them off. Paul, with a kind of fascinated + horror, watched the dead painted bodies sink deeper. Then one was entirely + gone. The hand of the other alone was left, and then it, too, was gone. + But the five had held the island, and Carpenter was leading the fugitives + on toward Fort Penn. They had not only held it, but they believed that + they could continue to hold it against anything, and their hearts became + exultant. Something, too, to balance against the long score, lay out there + in the swamp, and all the five, bitter over Wyoming, were sorry that + Braxton Wyatt was not among them. + </p> + <p> + The stillness came again. The sun did not break through the heavy gray + sky, and the somber shadows brooded over “The Shades of Death.” They heard + again the splash of water animals, and a swimming snake passed on the + murky surface. Then they heard the wolf's long cry, and the long cry of + wolf replying. + </p> + <p> + “More Iroquois coming,” said Shif'less Sol. “Well, we gave them a pretty + warm how d'ye do, an' with our rifles and double-barreled pistols I'm + thinkin' that we kin do it ag'in.” + </p> + <p> + “We can, except in one case,” said Henry, “if the new party brings their + numbers up to fifty or sixty, and they wait for night, they can surround + us in the darkness. Perhaps it would be better for us to slip away when + twilight comes. Carpenter and the train have a long lead now.” + </p> + <p> + “Yes,” said Shif'less Sol, “Now, what in tarnation is that?” + </p> + <p> + “A white flag,” said Paul. A piece of cloth that had once been white had + been hoisted on the barrel of a rifle at a point about sixty yards away. + </p> + <p> + “They want a talk with us,” said Henry. + </p> + <p> + “If it's Braxton Wyatt,” said Long Jim, “I'd like to take a shot at him, + talk or no talk, an' ef I missed, then take another.” + </p> + <p> + “We'll see what they have to say,” said Henry, and he called aloud: “What + do you want with us?” + </p> + <p> + “To talk with you,” replied a clear, full voice, not that of Braxton + Wyatt. + </p> + <p> + “Very well,” replied Henry, “show yourself and we will not fire upon you.” + </p> + <p> + A tall figure was upraised upon a grassy hummock, and the hands were held + aloft in sign of peace. It was a splendid figure, at least six feet four + inches in height. At that moment some rays of the setting sun broke + through the gray clouds and shone full upon it, lighting up the defiant + scalp lock interwoven with the brilliant red feather, the eagle face with + the curved Roman beak, and the mighty shoulders and chest of red bronze. + It was a genuine king of the wilderness, none other than the mighty + Timmendiquas himself, the great White Lightning of the Wyandots. + </p> + <p> + “Ware,” he said, “I would speak with you. Let us talk as one chief to + another.” + </p> + <p> + The five were amazed. Timmendiquas there! They were quite sure that he had + come up with the second force, and he was certain to prove a far more + formidable leader than either Braxton Wyatt or Moses Blackstaffe. But his + demand to speak with Henry Ware might mean something. + </p> + <p> + “Are you going to answer him?” said Shif'less Sol. + </p> + <p> + “Of course,” replied Henry. + </p> + <p> + “The others, especially Wyatt and Blackstaffe, might shoot.” + </p> + <p> + “Not while Timmendiquas holds the flag of truce; they would not dare.” + </p> + <p> + Henry stood up, raising himself to his full height. The same ruddy + sunlight piercing the somber gray of the clouds fell upon another splendid + figure, a boy only in years, but far beyond the average height of man, his + hair yellow, his eyes a deep, clear blue, his body clothed in buckskin, + and his whole attitude that of one without fear. The two, the white and + the red, kings of their kind, confronted each other across the marsh. + </p> + <p> + “What do you wish with me, Timmendiquas?” asked Henry. In the presence of + the great Wyandot chief the feeling of hate and revenge that had held his + heart vanished. He knew that Paul and Shif'less Sol would have sunk under + the ruthless tomahawk of Queen Esther, if it had not been for White + Lightning. He himself had owed him his life on another and more distant + occasion, and he was not ungrateful. So there was warmth in his tone when + he spoke. + </p> + <p> + “Let us meet at the edge of the solid ground,” said Timmendiquas, “I have + things to say that are important and that you will be glad to hear.” + </p> + <p> + Henry walked without hesitation to the edge of the swamp, and the young + chief, coming forward, met him. Henry held out his hand in white fashion, + and the young chief took it. There was no sound either from the swamp or + from those who lay behind the logs on the island, but some of the eyes of + those hidden in the swamps watched both with burning hatred. + </p> + <p> + “I wish to tell you, Ware,” said Timmendiquas, speaking with the dignity + becoming a great chief, “that it was not I who led the pursuit of the + white men's women and children. I, and the Wyandots who came with me, + fought as best we could in the great battle, and I will slay my enemies + when I can. We are warriors, and we are ready to face each other in + battle, but we do not seek to kill the squaw in the tepee or the papoose + in its birch-bark cradle.” + </p> + <p> + The face of the great chief seemed stirred by some deep emotion, which + impressed Henry all the more because the countenance of Timmendiquas was + usually a mask. + </p> + <p> + “I believe that you tell the truth,” said Henry gravely. + </p> + <p> + “I and my Wyandots,” continued the chief, “followed a trail through the + woods. We found that others, Senecas and Mohawks, led by Wyatt and + Blackstaffe, who are of your race, had gone before, and when we came up + there had just been a battle. The Mohawks and Senecas had been driven + back. It was then we learned that the trail was made by women and little + children, save you and your comrades who stayed to fight and protect + them.” + </p> + <p> + “You speak true words, Timmendiquas,” said Henry. + </p> + <p> + “The Wyandots have remained in the East to fight men, not to kill squaws + and papooses,” continued Timmendiquas. “So I say to you, go on with those + who flee across the mountains. Our warriors shall not pursue you any + longer. We will turn back to the valley from which we come, and those of + your race, Blackstaffe and Wyatt, shall go with us.” + </p> + <p> + The great chief spoke quietly, but there was an edge to his tone that told + that every word was meant. Henry felt a glow of admiration. The true + greatness of Timmendiquas spoke. + </p> + <p> + “And the Iroquois?” he said, “will they go back with you?” + </p> + <p> + “They will. They have killed too much. Today all the white people in the + valley are killed or driven away. Many scalps have been taken, those of + women and children, too, and men have died at the stake. I have felt shame + for their deeds, Ware, and it will bring punishment upon my brethren, the + Iroquois. It will make so great a noise in the world that many soldiers + will come, and the villages of the Iroquois will cease to be.” + </p> + <p> + “I think it is so, Timmendiquas,” said Henry. “But you will be far away + then in your own land.” + </p> + <p> + The chief drew himself up a little. + </p> + <p> + “I shall remain with the Iroquois,” he said. “I have promised to help + them, and I must do so.” + </p> + <p> + “I can't blame you for that,” said Henry, “but I am glad that you do not + seek the scalps of women and children. We are at once enemies and friends, + Timmendiquas.” + </p> + <p> + White Lightning bowed gravely. He and Henry touched hands again, and each + withdrew, the chief into the morass, while Henry walked back toward his + comrades, holding himself erect, as if no enemy were near. + </p> + <p> + The four rose up to greet him. They had heard part of what was said, and + Henry quickly told them the rest. + </p> + <p> + “He's shorely a great chief,” said Shif'less Sol. “He'll keep his word, + too. Them people on ahead ain't got anything more to fear from pursuit.” + </p> + <p> + “He's a statesman, too,” said Henry. “He sees what damage the deeds of + Wyoming Valley will do to those who have done them. He thinks our people + will now send a great army against the Iroquois, and I think so, too.” + </p> + <p> + “No nation can stand a thing like that,” said Paul, “and I didn't dream it + could happen.” + </p> + <p> + They now left the oasis, and went swiftly along the trail left by the + fugitives. All of them had confidence in the word of Timmendiquas. There + was a remote chance that some other band had entered the swamp at a + different point, but it was remote, indeed, and it did not trouble them + much. + </p> + <p> + Night was now over the great swamp. The sun no longer came through the + gray clouds, but here and there were little flashes of flame made by + fireflies. Had not the trail been so broad and deep it could easily have + been lost, but, being what it was, the skilled eyes of the frontiersmen + followed it without trouble. + </p> + <p> + “Some uv 'em are gittin' pow'ful tired,” said Tom Ross, looking at the + tracks in the mud. Then he suddenly added: “Here's whar one's quit + forever.” + </p> + <p> + A shallow grave, not an hour old, had been made under some bushes, and its + length indicated that a woman lay there. They passed it by in silence. + Henry now appreciated more fully than ever the mercy of Timmendiquas. The + five and Carpenter could not possibly have protected the miserable + fugitives against the great chief, with fifty Wyandots and Iroquois at his + back. Timmendiquas knew this, and he had done what none of the Indians or + white allies around him would have done. + </p> + <p> + In another hour they saw a man standing among some vines, but watchful, + and with his rifle in the hollow of his arm. It was Carpenter, a man whose + task was not less than that of the five. They were in the thick of it and + could see what was done, but he had to lead on and wait. He counted the + dusk figures as they approached him, one, two, three, four, five, and + perhaps no man ever felt greater relief. He advanced toward them and said + huskily: + </p> + <p> + “There was no fight! They did not attack!” + </p> + <p> + “There was a fight,” said Henry, “and we beat them back; then a second and + a larger force came up, but it was composed chiefly of Wyandots, led by + their great chief, Timmendiquas. He came forward and said that they would + not pursue women and children, and that we could go in safety.” + </p> + <p> + Carpenter looked incredulous. + </p> + <p> + “It is true,” said Henry, “every word of it.” + </p> + <p> + “It is more than Brant would have done,” said Carpenter, “and it saves us, + with your help.” + </p> + <p> + “You were first, and the first credit is yours, Mr. Carpenter,” said Henry + sincerely. + </p> + <p> + They did not tell the women and children of the fight at the oasis, but + they spread the news that there would be no more pursuit, and many + drooping spirits revived. They spent another day in the Great Dismal + Swamp, where more lives were lost. On the day after their emergence from + the marsh, Henry and his comrades killed two deer, which furnished greatly + needed food, and on the day after that, excepting those who had died by + the way, they reached Fort Penn, where they were received into shelter and + safety. + </p> + <p> + The night before the fugitives reached Fort Penn, the Iroquois began the + celebration of the Thanksgiving Dance for their great victory and the many + scalps taken at Wyoming. They could not recall another time when they had + secured so many of these hideous trophies, and they were drunk with the + joy of victory. Many of the Tories, some in their own clothes, and some + painted and dressed like Indians, took part in it. + </p> + <p> + According to their ancient and honored custom they held a grand council to + prepare for it. All the leading chiefs were present, Sangerachte, + Hiokatoo, and the others. Braxton Wyatt, Blackstaffe, and other white men + were admitted. After their deliberations a great fire was built in the + center of the camp, the squaws who had followed the army feeding it with + brushwood until it leaped and roared and formed a great red pyramid. Then + the chiefs sat down in a solemn circle at some distance, and waited. + </p> + <p> + Presently the sound of a loud chant was heard, and from the farthest point + of the camp emerged a long line of warriors, hundreds and hundreds of + them, all painted in red and black with horrible designs. They were naked + except the breechcloth and moccasins, and everyone waved aloft a tomahawk + as he sang. + </p> + <p> + Still singing and brandishing the tomahawks, which gleamed in the red + light, the long procession entered the open space, and danced and wheeled + about the great fire, the flames casting a lurid light upon faces hideous + with paint or the intoxication of triumph. The glare of their black eyes + was like those of Eastern eaters of hasheesh or opium, and they bounded to + and fro as if their muscles were springs of steel. They sang: + </p> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + We have met the Bostonians [*] in battle, + We slew them with our rifles and tomahawks. + Few there are who escaped our warriors. + Ever-victorious is the League of the Ho-de-no-sau-nee. + + [* Note: All the Americans were often called Bostonians by + the Indians as late as the Revolutionary War.] + + Mighty has been our taking of scalps, + They will fill all the lodges of the Iroquois. + We have burned the houses of the Bostonians. + Ever-victorious is the League of the Ho-de-no-sau-nee. + + The wolf will prowl in their corn-fields, + The grass will grow where their blood has soaked; + Their bones will lie for the buzzard to pick. + Ever-victorious is the League of the Ho-de-no-sau-nee. + + We came upon them by river and forest; + As we smote Wyoming we will smite the others, + We will drive the Bostonians back to the sea. + Ever-victorious is the League of the Ho-de-no-sau-nee. +</pre> + <p> + The monotonous chant with the refrain, “Ever-victorious is the League of + the Ho-de-no-sau-nee,” went on for many verses. Meanwhile the old squaws + never ceased to feed the bonfire, and the flames roared, casting a deeper + and more vivid light over the distorted faces of the dancers and those of + the chiefs, who sat gravely beyond. + </p> + <p> + Higher and higher leaped the warriors. They seemed unconscious of fatigue, + and the glare in their eyes became that of maniacs. Their whole souls were + possessed by the orgy. Beads of sweat, not of exhaustion, but of emotional + excitement, appeared upon their faces and naked bodies, and the red and + black paint streaked together horribly. + </p> + <p> + For a long time this went on, and then the warriors ceased suddenly to + sing, although they continued their dance. A moment later a cry which + thrilled every nerve came from a far point in the dark background. It was + the scalp yell, the most terrible of all Indian cries, long, high-pitched, + and quavering, having in it something of the barking howl of the wolf and + the fiendish shriek of a murderous maniac. The warriors instantly took it + up, and gave it back in a gigantic chorus. + </p> + <p> + A ghastly figure bounded into the circle of the firelight. It was that of + a woman, middle-aged, tall and powerful, naked to the waist, her body + covered with red and black paint, her long black hair hanging in a loose + cloud down her back. She held a fresh scalp, taken from a white head, + aloft in either band. It was Catharine Montour, and it was she who had + first emitted the scalp yell. After her came more warriors, all bearing + scalps. The scalp yell was supposed to be uttered for every scalp taken, + and, as they had taken more than three hundred, it did not cease for + hours, penetrating every part of the forest. All the time Catharine + Montour led the dance. None bounded higher than she. None grimaced more + horribly. + </p> + <p> + While they danced, six men, with their hands tied behind them and black + caps on their heads, were brought forth and paraded around amid hoots and + yells and brandishing of tomahawks in their faces. They were the surviving + prisoners, and the black caps meant that they were to be killed and + scalped on the morrow. Stupefied by all through which they had gone, they + were scarcely conscious now. + </p> + <p> + Midnight came. The Iroquois still danced and sang, and the calm stars + looked down upon the savage and awful scene. Now the dancers began to + weary. Many dropped unconscious, and the others danced about them where + they lay. After a while all ceased. Then the chiefs brought forth a white + dog, which Hiokatoo killed and threw on the embers of the fire. When it + was thoroughly roasted, the chiefs cut it in pieces and ate it. Thus + closed the Festival of Thanksgiving for the victory of Wyoming. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0013" id="link2HCH0013"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XIII. A FOREST PAGE + </h2> + <p> + When the survivors of the band of Wyoming fugitives that the five had + helped were behind the walls of Fort Penn, securing the food and rest they + needed so greatly, Henry Ware and his comrades felt themselves relieved of + a great responsibility. They were also aware how much they owed to + Timmendiquas, because few of the Indians and renegades would have been so + forbearing. Thayendanegea seemed to them inferior to the great Wyandot. + Often when Brant could prevent the torture of the prisoners and the + slaughter of women and children, he did not do it. The five could never + forget these things in after life, when Brant was glorified as a great + warrior and leader. Their minds always turned to Timmendiquas as the + highest and finest of Indian types. + </p> + <p> + While they were at Fort Penn two other parties came, in a fearful state of + exhaustion, and also having paid the usual toll of death on the way. Other + groups reached the Moravian towns, where they were received with all + kindness by the German settlers. The five were able to give some help to + several of these parties, but the beautiful Wyoming Valley lay utterly in + ruins. The ruthless fury of the savages and of many of the Tories, + Canadians, and Englishmen, can scarcely be told. Everything was + slaughtered or burned. As a habitation of human beings or of anything + pertaining to human beings, the valley for a time ceased to be. An entire + population was either annihilated or driven out, and finally Butler's + army, finding that nothing more was left to be destroyed, gathered in its + war parties and marched northward with a vast store of spoils, in which + scalps were conspicuous. When they repassed Tioga Point, Timmendiquas and + his Wyandots were still with them. Thayendanegea was also with them here, + and so was Walter Butler, who was destined shortly to make a reputation + equaling that of his father, “Indian” Butler. Nor had the terrible Queen + Esther ever left them. She marched at the head of the army, singing, + horrid chants of victory, and swinging the great war tomahawk, which did + not often leave her hand. + </p> + <p> + The whole force was re-embarked upon the Susquehanna, and it was still + full of the impulse of savage triumph. Wild Indian songs floated along the + stream or through the meadows, which were quiet now. They advanced at + their ease, knowing that there was nobody to attack them, but they were + watched by five woodsmen, two of whom were boys. Meanwhile the story of + Wyoming, to an extent that neither Indians nor woodsmen themselves + suspected, was spreading from town to town in the East, to invade thence + the whole civilized world, and to stir up an indignation and horror that + would make the name Wyoming long memorable. Wyoming had been a victory for + the flag under which the invaders fought, but it sadly tarnished the cause + of that flag, and the consequences were to be seen soon. + </p> + <p> + Henry Ware, Paul Cotter, Sol Hyde, Tom Ross, and Jim Hart were thinking + little of distant consequences, but they were eager for the present + punishment of these men who had committed so much cruelty. From the bushes + they could easily follow the canoes, and could recognize some of their + occupants. In one of the rear boats sat Braxton Wyatt and a young man whom + they knew to be Walter Butler, a pallid young man, animated by the most + savage ferocity against the patriots. He and Wyatt seemed to be on the + best of terms, and faint echoes of their laughter came to the five who + were watching among the bushes on the river bank. Certainly Braxton Wyatt + and he were a pair well met. + </p> + <p> + “Henry,” said Shif'less Sol longingly, “I think I could jest about reach + Braxton Wyatt with a bullet from here. I ain't over fond o' shootin' from + ambush, but I done got over all scruples so fur ez he's concerned. Jest + one bullet, one little bullet, Henry, an' ef I miss I won't ask fur a + second chance.” + </p> + <p> + “No, Sol, it won't do,” said Henry. “They'd get off to hunt us. The whole + fleet would be stopped, and we want 'em to go on as fast as possible.” + </p> + <p> + “I s'pose you're right, Henry,” said the shiftless one sadly, “but I'd + jest like to try it once. I'd give a month's good huntin' for that single + trial.” + </p> + <p> + After watching the British-Indian fleet passing up the river, they turned + back to the site of the Wyoming fort and the houses near it. Here + everything had been destroyed. It was about dusk when they approached the + battlefield, and they heard a dreadful howling, chiefly that of wolves. + </p> + <p> + “I think we'd better turn away,” said Henry. “We couldn't do anything with + so many.” + </p> + <p> + They agreed with him, and, going back, followed the Indians up the + Susquehanna. A light rain fell that night, but they slept under a little + shed, once attached to a house which had been destroyed by fire. In some + way the shed had escaped the flames, and it now came into timely use. The + five, cunning in forest practice, drew up brush on the sides, and + half-burned timber also, and, spreading their blankets on ashes which had + not long been cold, lay well sheltered from the drizzling rain, although + they did not sleep for a long time. + </p> + <p> + It was the hottest period of the year in America, but the night had come + on cool, and the rain made it cooler. The five, profiting by experience, + often carried with them two light blankets instead of one heavy one. With + one blanket beneath the body they could keep warmer in case the weather + was cold. + </p> + <p> + Now they lay in a row against the standing wall of the old outhouse, + protected by a six- or seven-foot slant of board roof. They had eaten of a + deer that they had shot in the morning, and they had a sense of comfort + and rest that none of them had known before in many days. Henry's feelings + were much like those that he had experienced when he lay in the bushes in + the little canoe, wrapped up from the storm and hidden from the Iroquois. + But here there was an important increase of pleasure, the pattering of the + rain on the board roof, a pleasant, soothing sound to which millions of + boys, many of them afterwards great men, have listened in America. + </p> + <p> + It grew very dark about them, and the pleasant patter, almost musical in + its rhythm, kept up. Not much wind was blowing, and it, too, was + melodious. Henry lay with his head on a little heap of ashes, which was + covered by his under blanket, and, for the first time since he had brought + the warning to Wyoming, he was free from all feeling of danger. The + picture itself of the battle, the defeat, the massacre, the torture, and + of the savage Queen Esther cleaving the heads of the captives, was at + times as vivid as ever, and perhaps would always return now and then in + its original true colors, but the periods between, when youth, hope, and + strength had their way, grew longer and longer. + </p> + <p> + Now Henry's eyelids sank lower and lower. Physical comfort and the + presence of his comrades caused a deep satisfaction that permeated his + whole being. The light wind mingled pleasantly with the soft summer rain. + The sound of the two grew strangely melodious, almost piercingly sweet, + and then it seemed to be human. They sang together, the wind and rain, + among the leaves, and the note that reached his heart, rather than his + ear, thrilled him with courage and hope. Once more the invisible voice + that had upborne him in the great valley of the Ohio told him, even here + in the ruined valley of Wyoming, that what was lost would be regained. The + chords ended, and the echoes, amazingly clear, floated far away in the + darkness and rain. Henry roused himself, and came from the imaginative + borderland. He stirred a little, and said in a quiet voice to Shif'less + Sol: + </p> + <p> + “Did you hear anything, Sol?” + </p> + <p> + “Nothin' but the wind an' the rain.” + </p> + <p> + Henry knew that such would be the answer. + </p> + <p> + “I guess you didn't hear anything either, Henry,” continued the shiftless + one, “'cause it looked to me that you wuz 'bout ez near sleep ez a feller + could be without bein' ackshooally so.” + </p> + <p> + “I was drifting away,” said Henry. + </p> + <p> + He was beginning to realize that he had a great power, or rather gift. + Paul was the sensitive, imaginative boy, seeing everything in brilliant + colors, a great builder of castles, not all of air, but Henry's gift went + deeper. It was the power to evoke the actual living picture of the event + that bad not yet occurred, something akin in its nature to prophecy, based + perhaps upon the wonderful power of observation, inherited doubtless, from + countless primitive ancestors. The finest product of the wilderness, he + saw in that wilderness many things that others did not see, and + unconsciously he drew his conclusions from superior knowledge. + </p> + <p> + The song had ceased a full ten minutes, and then came another note, a howl + almost plaintive, but, nevertheless, weird and full of ferocity. All knew + it at once. They had heard the cry of wolves too often in their lives, but + this had an uncommon note like the yell of the Indian in victory. Again + the cry arose, nearer, haunting, and powerful. The five, used to the + darkness, could see one another's faces, and the look that all gave was + the same, full of understanding and repulsion. + </p> + <p> + “It has been a great day for the wolf in this valley,” whispered Paul, + “and striking our trail they think they are going to find what they have + been finding in such plenty before.” + </p> + <p> + “Yes,” nodded Henry, “but do you remember that time when in the house we + took the place of the man, his wife and children, just before the Indians + came?” + </p> + <p> + “Yes,” said Paul. + </p> + <p> + “We'll treat them wolves the same way,” said Shif'less Sol. + </p> + <p> + “I'm glad of the chance,” said Long Jim. + </p> + <p> + “Me, too,” said Tom Ross. + </p> + <p> + The five rose up to sitting positions against the board wall, and everyone + held across his knees a long, slender barreled rifle, with the muzzle + pointing toward the forest. All accomplished marksmen, it would only be a + matter of a moment for the stock to leap to the shoulder, the eye to + glance down the barrel, the finger to pull the trigger, and the unerring + bullet to leap forth. + </p> + <p> + “Henry, you give the word as usual,” said Shif'less Sol. + </p> + <p> + Henry nodded. + </p> + <p> + Presently in the darkness they heard the pattering of light feet, and they + saw many gleaming eyes draw near. There must have been at least thirty of + the wolves, and the five figures that they saw reclining, silent and + motionless, against the unburned portion of the house might well have been + those of the dead and scalped, whom they had found in such numbers + everywhere. They drew near in a semicircular group, its concave front + extended toward the fire, the greatest wolves at the center. Despite many + feastings, the wolves were hungry again. Nothing had opposed them before, + but caution was instinctive. The big gray leaders did not mind the night + or the wind or the rain, which they had known all their lives, and which + they counted as nothing, but they always had involuntary suspicion of + human figures, whether living or not, and they approached slowly, + wrinkling back their noses and sniffing the wind which blew from them + instead of the five figures. But their confidence increased as they + advanced. They had found many such burned houses as this, but they had + found nothing among the ruins except what they wished. + </p> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> +The big leaders advanced more boldly, glaring straight at the human +figures, a slight froth on their lips, the lips themselves curling +back farther from the strong white teeth. The outer ends of the concave +semicircle also drew in. The whole pack was about to spring upon its +unresisting prey, and it is, no doubt, true that many a wolfish pulse +beat a little higher in anticipation. With a suddenness as startling + figures raised themselves, five long, dark tubes leaped to their +shoulders, and with a suddenness that was yet more terrifying, a gush +of flame shot from five muzzles. Five of the wolves-and they were the +biggest and the boldest, the leaders-fell dead upon the ashes of the +charred timbers, and the others, howling their terror to the dark, +skies, fled deep into the forest. +</pre> + <p> + Henry strode over and pushed the body of the largest wolf with his foot. + </p> + <p> + “I suppose we only gratified a kind of sentiment in shooting those + wolves,” he said, “but I for one am glad we did it.” + </p> + <p> + “So am I,” said Paul. + </p> + <p> + “Me, too,” said the other three together. + </p> + <p> + They went back to their positions near the wall, and one by one fell + asleep. No more wolves howled that night anywhere near them. + </p> + <p> + When the five awakened the next morning the rain had ceased, and a + splendid sun was tinting a blue sky with gold. Jim Hart built a fire among + the blackened logs, and cooked venison. They had also brought from Fort + Penn a little coffee, which Long Jim carried with a small coffee pot in + his camp kit, and everyone had a small tin cup. He made coffee for them, + an uncommon wilderness luxury, in which they could rarely indulge, and + they were heartened and strengthened by it. + </p> + <p> + Then they went again up the valley, as beautiful as ever, with its silver + river in the center, and its green mountain walls on either side. But the + beauty was for the eye only. It did not reach the hearts of those who had + seen it before. All of the five loved the wilderness, but they felt now + how tragic silence and desolation could be where human life and all the + daily ways of human life had been. + </p> + <p> + It was mid-summer, but the wilderness was already reclaiming its own. The + game knew that man was gone, and it had come back into the valley. Deer + ate what had grown in the fields and gardens, and the wolves were + everywhere. The whole black tragedy was written for miles. They were never + out of sight of some trace of it, and their anger grew again as they + advanced in the blackened path of the victorious Indians. + </p> + <p> + It was their purpose now to hang on the Indian flank as scouts and + skirmishers, until an American army was formed for a campaign against the + Iroquois, which they were sure must be conducted sooner or later. + Meanwhile they could be of great aid, gathering news of the Indian plans, + and, when that army of which they dreamed should finally march, they could + help it most of all by warning it of ambush, the Indian's deadliest + weapon. + </p> + <p> + Everyone of the five had already perceived a fact which was manifest in + all wars with the Indians along the whole border from North to South, as + it steadily shifted farther West. The practical hunter and scout was + always more than a match for the Indian, man for man, but, when the raw + levies of settlers were hastily gathered to stem invasion, they were + invariably at a great disadvantage. They were likely to be caught in + ambush by overwhelming numbers, and to be cut down, as had just happened + at Wyoming. The same fate might attend an invasion of the Iroquois + country, even by a large army of regular troops, and Henry and his + comrades resolved upon doing their utmost to prevent it. An army needed + eyes, and it could have none better than those five pairs. So they went + swiftly up the valley and northward and eastward, into the country of the + Iroquois. They had a plan of approaching the upper Mohawk village of + Canajoharie, where one account says that Thayendanegea was born, although + another credits his birthplace to the upper banks of the Ohio. + </p> + <p> + They turned now from the valley to the deep woods. The trail showed that + the great Indian force, after disembarking again, split into large + parties, everyone loaded with spoil and bound for its home village. The + five noted several of the trails, but one of them consumed the whole + attention of Silent Tom Ross. + </p> + <p> + He saw in the soft soil near a creek bank the footsteps of about eight + Indians, and, mingled with them, other footsteps, which he took to be + those of a white woman and of several children, captives, as even a tyro + would infer. The soul of Tom, the good, honest, and inarticulate + frontiersman, stirred within him. A white woman and her children being + carried off to savagery, to be lost forevermore to their kind! Tom, still + inarticulate, felt his heart pierced with sadness at the tale that the + tracks in the soft mud told so plainly. But despair was not the only + emotion in his heart. The silent and brave man meant to act. + </p> + <p> + “Henry,” he said, “see these tracks here in the soft spot by the creek.” + </p> + <p> + The young leader read the forest page, and it told him exactly the same + tale that it had told Tom Ross. + </p> + <p> + “About a day old, I think,” he said. + </p> + <p> + “Just about,” said Tom; “an' I reckon, Henry, you know what's in my mind.” + </p> + <p> + “I think I do,” said Henry, “and we ought to overtake them by to-morrow + night. You tell the others, Tom.” + </p> + <p> + Tom informed Shif'less Sol, Paul, and Long Jim in a few words, receiving + from everyone a glad assent, and then the five followed fast on the trail. + They knew that the Indians could not go very fast, as their speed must be + that of the slowest, namely, that of the children, and it seemed likely + that Henry's prediction of overtaking them on the following night would + come true. + </p> + <p> + It was an easy trail. Here and there were tiny fragments of cloth, caught + by a bush from the dress of a captive. In one place they saw a fragment of + a child's shoe that had been dropped off and abandoned. Paul picked up the + worn piece of leather and examined it. + </p> + <p> + “I think it was worn by a girl,” he said, “and, judging from its size, she + could not have been more than eight years old. Think of a child like that + being made to walk five or six hundred miles through these woods!” + </p> + <p> + “Younger ones still have had to do it,” said Shif'less Sol gravely, “an' + them that couldn't-well, the tomahawk.” + </p> + <p> + The trail was leading them toward the Seneca country, and they had no + doubt that the Indians were Senecas, who had been more numerous than any + others of the Six Nations at the Wyoming battle. They came that afternoon + to a camp fire beside which the warriors and captives had slept the night + before. + </p> + <p> + “They ate bar meat an' wild turkey,” said Long Jim, looking at some bones + on the ground. + </p> + <p> + “An' here,” said Tom Ross, “on this pile uv bushes is whar the women an' + children slept, an' on the other side uv the fire is whar the warriors lay + anywhars. You can still see how the bodies uv some uv 'cm crushed down the + grass an' little bushes.” + </p> + <p> + “An' I'm thinkin',” said Shif'less Sol, as he looked at the trail that led + away from the camp fire, “that some o' them little ones wuz gittin' + pow'ful tired. Look how these here little trails are wobblin' about.” + </p> + <p> + “Hope we kin come up afore the Injuns begin to draw thar tomahawks,” said + Tom Ross. + </p> + <p> + The others were silent, but they knew the dreadful significance of Tom's + remark, and Henry glanced at them all, one by one. + </p> + <p> + “It's the greatest danger to be feared,” he said, “and we must overtake + them in the night when they are not suspecting. If we attack by day they + will tomahawk the captives the very first thing.” + </p> + <p> + “Shorely,', said the shiftless one. + </p> + <p> + “Then,” said Henry, “we don't need to hurry. We'll go on until about + midnight, and then sleep until sunrise.” + </p> + <p> + They continued at a fair pace along a trail that frontiersmen far less + skillful than they could have followed. But a silent dread was in the + heart of every one of them. As they saw the path of the small feet + staggering more and more they feared to behold some terrible object beside + the path. + </p> + <p> + “The trail of the littlest child is gone,” suddenly announced Paul. + </p> + <p> + “Yes,” said Henry, “but the mother has picked it up and is carrying it. + See how her trail has suddenly grown more uneven.” + </p> + <p> + “Poor woman,” said Paul. “Henry, we're just bound to overtake that band.” + </p> + <p> + “We'll do it,” said Henry. + </p> + <p> + At the appointed time they sank down among the thickest bushes that they + could find, and slept until the first upshot of dawn. Then they resumed + the trail, haunted always by that fear of finding something terrible + beside it. But it was a trail that continually grew slower. The Indians + themselves were tired, or, feeling safe from pursuit, saw no need of + hurry. By and by the trail of the smallest child reappeared. + </p> + <p> + “It feels a lot better now,” said Tom Ross. “So do I.” + </p> + <p> + They came to another camp fire, at which the ashes were not yet cold. + Feathers were scattered about, indicating that the Indians had taken time + for a little side hunt, and had shot some birds. + </p> + <p> + “They can't be more than two or three hours ahead,” said Henry, “and we'll + have to go on now very cautiously.” + </p> + <p> + They were in a country of high hills, well covered with forests, a region + suited to an ambush, which they feared but little on their own account; + but, for the sake of extreme caution, they now advanced slowly. The + afternoon was long and warm, but an hour before sunset they looked over a + hill into a glade, and saw the warriors making camp for the night. + </p> + <p> + The sight they beheld made the pulses of the five throb heavily. The + Indians had already built their fire, and two of them were cooking venison + upon it. Others were lying on the grass, apparently resting, but a little + to one side sat a woman, still young and of large, strong figure, though + now apparently in the last stages of exhaustion, with her feet showing + through the fragments of shoes that she wore. Her head was bare, and her + dress was in strips. Four children lay beside her' the youngest two with + their heads in her lap. The other two, who might be eleven and thirteen + each, had pillowed their heads on their arms, and lay in the dull apathy + that comes from the finish of both strength and hope. The woman's face was + pitiful. She had more to fear than the children, and she knew it. She was + so worn that the skin hung loosely on her face, and her eyes showed + despair only. The sad spectacle was almost more than Paul could stand. + </p> + <p> + “I don't like to shoot from ambush,” he said, “but we could cut down half + of those warriors at our firs fire and rush in on the rest.” + </p> + <p> + “And those we didn't cut down at our first volley would tomahawk the woman + and children in an instant,” replied Henry. “We agreed, you know, that it + would be sure to happen. We can't do anything until night comes, and then + we've got to be mighty cautious.” + </p> + <p> + Paul could not dispute the truth of his words, and they withdrew carefully + to the crest of a hill, where they lay in the undergrowth, watching the + Indians complete their fire and their preparations for the night. It was + evident to Henry that they considered themselves perfectly safe. Certainly + they had every reason for thinking so. It was not likely that white + enemies were within a hundred miles of them, and, if so, it could only be + a wandering hunter or two, who would flee from this fierce band of Senecas + who bad taken revenge for the great losses that they' had suffered the + year before at the Oriskany. + </p> + <p> + They kept very little watch and built only a small fire, just enough for + broiling deer meat which they carried. They drank at a little spring which + ran from under a ledge near them, and gave portions of the meat to the + woman and children. After the woman had eaten, they bound her hands, and + she lay back on the grass, about twenty feet from the camp fire. Two + children lay on either side of her, and they were soon sound asleep. The + warriors, as Indians will do when they are free from danger and care, + talked a good deal, and showed all the signs of having what was to them a + luxurious time. They ate plentifully, lolled on the grass, and looked at + some hideous trophies, the scalps that they carried at their belts. The + woman could not keep from seeing these, too, but her face did not change + from its stony aspect of despair. Then the light of the fire went out, the + sun sank behind the mountains, and the five could no longer see the little + group of captives and captors. + </p> + <p> + They still waited, although eagerness and impatience were tugging at the + hearts of every one of them. But they must give the Indians time to fall + asleep if they would secure rescue, and not merely revenge. They remained + in the bushes, saying but little and eating of venison that they carried + in their knapsacks. + </p> + <p> + They let a full three hours pass, and the night remained dark, but with a + faint moon showing. Then they descended slowly into the valley, + approaching by cautious degrees the spot where they knew the Indian camp + lay. This work required at least three quarters of an hour, and they + reached a point where they could see the embers of the fire and the dark + figures lying about it. The Indians, their suspicions lulled, had put out + no sentinels, and all were asleep. But the five knew that, at the first + shot, they would be as wide awake as if they had never slept, and as + formidable as tigers. Their problem seemed as great as ever. So they lay + in the bushes and held a whispered conference. + </p> + <p> + “It's this,” said Henry. “We want to save the woman and the children from + the tomahawks, and to do so we must get them out of range of the blade + before the battle begins.” “How?” said Tom Ross. + </p> + <p> + “I've got to slip up, release the woman, arm her, tell her to run for the + woods with the children, and then you four must do the most of the rest.” + </p> + <p> + “Do you think you can do it, Henry?” asked Shif'less Sol. + </p> + <p> + “I can, as I will soon show you. I'm going to steal forward to the woman, + but the moment you four hear an alarm open with your rifles and pistols. + You can come a little nearer without being heard.” + </p> + <p> + All of them moved up close to the Indian camp, and lay hidden in the last + fringe of bushes except Henry. He lay almost flat upon the ground, + carrying his rifle parallel with his side, and in his right hand. He was + undertaking one of the severest and most dangerous tests known to a + frontiersman. He meant to crawl into the very midst of a camp of the + Iroquois, composed of the most alert woodsmen in the world, men who would + spring up at the slightest crackle in the brush. Woodmen who, warned by + some sixth sense, would awaken at the mere fact of a strange presence. + </p> + <p> + The four who remained behind in the bushes could not keep their hearts + from beating louder and faster. They knew the tremendous risk undertaken + by their comrade, but there was not one of them who would have shirked it, + had not all yielded it to the one whom they knew to be the best fitted for + the task. + </p> + <p> + Henry crept forward silently, bringing to his aid all the years of skill + that he had acquired in his life in the wilds. His body was like that of a + serpent, going forward, coil by coil. He was near enough now to see the + embers of the fire not yet quite dead, the dark figures scattered about + it, sleeping upon the grass with the long ease of custom, and then the + outline of the woman apart from the others with the children about her. + Henry now lay entirely flat, and his motions were genuinely those of a + serpent. It was by a sort of contraction and relaxation of the body that + he moved himself, and his progress was absolutely soundless. + </p> + <p> + The object of his advance was the woman. He saw by the faint light of the + moon that she was not yet asleep. Her face, worn and weather beaten, was + upturned to the skies, and the stony look of despair seemed to have + settled there forever. She lay upon some pine boughs, and her hands were + tied behind her for the night with deerskin. + </p> + <p> + Henry contorted himself on, inch by inch, for all the world like a great + snake. Now he passed the sleeping Senecas, hideous with war paint, and + came closer to the woman. She was not paying attention to anything about + her, but was merely looking up at the pale, cold stars, as if everything + in the world had ceased for her. + </p> + <p> + Henry crept a little nearer. He made a slight noise, as of a lizard + running through the grass, but the woman took no notice. He crept closer, + and there he lay flat upon the grass within six feet of her, his figure + merely a slightly darker blur against the dark blur of the earth. Then, + trusting to the woman's courage and strength of mind, he emitted a hiss + very soft and low, like the warning of a serpent, half in fear and half in + anger. + </p> + <p> + The woman moved a little, and looked toward the point from which the sound + had come. It might have been the formidable hiss of a coiling rattlesnake + that she heard, but she felt no fear. She was too much stunned, too near + exhaustion to be alarmed by anything, and she did not look a second time. + She merely settled back on the pine boughs, and again looked dully up at + the pale, cold stars that cared so little for her or hers. + </p> + <p> + Henry crept another yard nearer, and then he uttered that low noise, + sibilant and warning, which the woman, the product of the border, knew to + be made by a human being. She raised herself a little, although it was + difficult with her bound hands to sit upright, and saw a dark shadow + approaching her. That dark shadow she knew to be the figure of a man. An + Indian would not be approaching in such a manner, and she looked again, + startled into a sudden acute attention, and into a belief that the + incredible, the impossible, was about to happen. A voice came from the + figure, and its quality was that of the white voice, not the red. + </p> + <p> + “Do not move,” said that incredible voice out of the unknown. “I have come + for your rescue, and others who have come for the same purpose are near. + Turn on one side, and I will cut the bonds that hold your arms.” + </p> + <p> + The voice, the white voice, was like the touch of fire to Mary Newton. A + sudden fierce desire for life and for the lives of her four children awoke + within her just when hope had gone the call to life came. She had never + heard before a voice so full of cheer and encouragement. It penetrated her + whole being. Exhaustion and despair fled away. + </p> + <p> + “Turn a little on your side,” said the voice. + </p> + <p> + She turned obediently, and then felt the sharp edge of cold steel as it + swept between her wrists and cut the thongs that held them together. Her + arms fell apart, and strength permeated every vein of her being. + </p> + <p> + “We shall attack in a few moments,” said the voice, “but at the first + shots the Senecas will try to tomahawk you and your children. Hold out + your hands.” + </p> + <p> + She held out both hands obediently. The handle of a tomahawk was pressed + into one, and the muzzle of a double-barreled pistol into the other. + Strength flowed down each hand into her body. + </p> + <p> + “If the time comes, use them; you are strong, and you know how,” said the + voice. Then she saw the dark figure creeping away. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0014" id="link2HCH0014"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XIV. THE PURSUIT ON THE RIVER + </h2> + <p> + The story of the frontier is filled with heroines, from the far days of + Hannah Dustin down to the present, and Mary Newton, whom the unknown + figure in the dark had just aroused, is one of them. It had seemed to her + that God himself had deserted her, but at the last moment he had sent some + one. She did not doubt, she could not doubt, because the bonds had been + severed, and there she lay with a deadly weapon in either hand. The + friendly stranger who had come so silently was gone as he had come, but + she was not helpless now. Like many another frontier woman, she was + naturally lithe and powerful, and, stirred by a great hope, all her + strength had returned for the present. + </p> + <p> + Nobody who lives in the wilderness can wholly escape superstition, and + Mary Newton began to believe that some supernatural creature had + intervened in her behalf. She raised herself just a little on one elbow + and surveyed the surrounding thicket. She saw only the dead embers of the + fire, and the dark forms of the Indians lying upon the bare ground. Had it + not been for the knife and pistol in her hand, she could have believed + that the voice was only a dream. + </p> + <p> + There was a slight rustling in the thicket, and a Seneca rose quickly to + his knees, grasping his rifle in both hands. The woman's fingers clutched + the knife and pistol more tightly, and her whole gaunt figure trembled. + The Seneca listened only a moment. Then he gave a sharp cry, and all the + other warriors sprang up. But three of them rose only to fall again, as + the rifles cracked in the bushes, while two others staggered from wounds. + </p> + <p> + The triumphant shout of the frontiersmen came from the thicket, and then + they rushed upon the camp. Quick as a flash two of the Senecas started + toward the woman and children with their tomahawks, but Mary Newton was + ready. Her heart had leaped at the shots when the Senecas fell, and she + kept her courage. Now she sprang to her full height, and, with the + children screaming at her feet, fired one barrel of the pistol directly + into the face of the first warrior, and served the second in the same way + with the other barrel when he was less than four feet away. Then, tomahawk + in hand, she rushed forward. In judging Mary Newton, one must consider + time and place. + </p> + <p> + But happily there was no need for her to use her tomahawk. As the five + rushed in, four of them emptied their double-barreled pistols, while Henry + swung his clubbed rifle with terrible effect. It was too much for the + Senecas. The apparition of the armed woman, whom they had left bound, and + the deadly fire from the five figures that sprang upon them, was like a + blow from the hand of Aieroski. The unhurt and wounded fled deep into the + forest, leaving their dead behind. Mary Newton, her great deed done, + collapsed from emotion and weakness. The screams of the children sank in a + few moments to frightened whimpers. But the oldest, when they saw the + white faces, knew that rescue had come. + </p> + <p> + Paul brought water from the brook in his cap, and Mary Newton was revived; + Jim was reassuring the children, and the other three were in the thickets, + watching lest the surviving Senecas return for attack. + </p> + <p> + “I don't know who you are, but I think the good God himself must have sent + you to our rescue,” said Mary Newton reverently. + </p> + <p> + “We don't know,” said Paul, “but we are doing the best we can. Do you + think you can walk now?” + </p> + <p> + “Away from the savages? Yes!” she said passionately. She looked down at + the dead figures of the Senecas, and she did not feel a single trace of + pity for them. Again it is necessary to consider time and place. + </p> + <p> + “Some of my strength came back while I was lying here,” she said, “and + much more of it when you drove away the Indians.” + </p> + <p> + “Very well,” said Henry, who had returned to the dead camp fire with his + comrades, “we must start on the back trail at once. The surviving Senecas, + joined by other Iroquois, will certainly pursue, and we need all the start + that we can get.” + </p> + <p> + Long Jim picked up one of the two younger children and flung him over his + shoulder; Tom Ross did as much for the other, but the older two scorned + help. They were full of admiration for the great woodsmen, mighty heroes + who had suddenly appeared out of the air, as it were, and who had swept + like a tornado over the Seneca band. It did not seem possible now that + they, could be retaken. + </p> + <p> + But Mary Newton, with her strength and courage, had also recovered her + forethought. + </p> + <p> + “Maybe it will not be better to go on the back trail,” she said. “One of + the Senecas told me to-day that six or seven miles farther on was a river + flowing into the Susquehanna, and that they would cross this river on a + boat now concealed among bushes on the bank. The crossing was at a sudden + drop between high banks. Might not we go on, find the boat, and come back + in it down the river and into the Susquehanna?” + </p> + <p> + “That sounds mighty close to wisdom to me,” said Shif'less Sol. “Besides, + it's likely to have the advantage o' throwin' the Iroquois off our track. + They'll think, o' course, that we've gone straight back, an' we'll pass + 'em ez we're going forward.” + </p> + <p> + “It's certainly the best plan,” said Henry, “and it's worth our while to + try for that hidden boat of the Iroquois. Do you know the general + direction?” + </p> + <p> + “Almost due north.” + </p> + <p> + “Then we'll make a curve to the right, in order to avoid any Iroquois who + may be returning to this camp, and push for it.” + </p> + <p> + Henry led the way over hilly, rough ground, and the others followed in a + silent file, Long Jim and Tom still carrying the two smallest children, + who soon fell asleep on their shoulders. Henry did not believe that the + returning Iroquois could follow their trail on such a dark night, and the + others agreed with him. + </p> + <p> + After a while they saw the gleam of water. Henry knew that it must be very + near, or it would have been wholly invisible on such a dark night. + </p> + <p> + “I think, Mrs. Newton,” he said, “that this is the river of which you + spoke, and the cliffs seem to drop down just as you said they would.” + </p> + <p> + The woman smiled. + </p> + <p> + “Yes,” she said, “you've done well with my poor guess, and the boat must + be hidden somewhere near here.” + </p> + <p> + Then she sank down with exhaustion, and the two older children, unable to + walk farther, sank down beside her. But the two who slept soundly on the + shoulders of Long Jim and Tom Ross did not awaken. Henry motioned to Jim + and Tom to remain there, and Shif'less Sol bent upon them a quizzical and + approving look. + </p> + <p> + “Didn't think it was in you, Jim Hart, you old horny-handed galoot,” he + said, “carryin' a baby that tender. Knew Jim could sling a little black + bar 'roun' by the tail, but I didn't think you'd take to nussin' so easy.” + </p> + <p> + “I'd luv you to know, Sol Hyde,” said Jim Hart in a tone of high + condescension, “that Tom Ross an' me are civilized human bein's. In face + uv danger we are ez brave ez forty thousand lions, but with the little an' + the weak we're as easy an' kind an' soft ez human bein's are ever made to + be.” + </p> + <p> + “You're right, old hoss,” said Tom Ross. + </p> + <p> + “Well,” said the shiftless one, “I can't argify with you now, ez the + general hez called on his colonel, which is me, an' his major, which is + Paul, to find him a nice new boat like one o' them barges o' Clepatry that + Paul tells about, all solid silver, with red silk sails an' gold oars, an' + we're meanin' to do it.” + </p> + <p> + Fortune was with them, and in a quarter of an hour they discovered, deep + among bushes growing in the shallow water, a large, well-made boat with + two pairs of oars and with small supplies of parched corn and venison + hidden in it. + </p> + <p> + “Good luck an' bad luck come mixed,” said the shift-less one, “an' this is + shorely one o' our pieces o' good luck. The woman an' the children are + clean tuckered out, an' without this boat we could never hev got them + back. Now it's jest a question o' rowin' an' fightin'.” + </p> + <p> + “Paul and I will pull her out to the edge of the clear water,” said Henry, + “while you can go back and tell the others, Sol.” + </p> + <p> + “That just suits a lazy man,” said Sol, and he walked away jauntily. Under + his apparent frivolity he concealed his joy at the find, which he knew to + be of such vast importance. He approached the dusky group, and his really + tender heart was stirred with pity for the rescued captives. Long Jim and + Silent Tom held the smaller two on their shoulders, but the older ones and + the woman, also, had fallen asleep. Sol, in order to conceal his emotion, + strode up rather roughly. Mary Newton awoke. + </p> + <p> + “Did you find anything?” she asked. + </p> + <p> + “Find anything?” repeated Shif'less Sol. “Well, Long Jim an' Tom here + might never hev found anything, but Henry an' Paul an' me, three eddicated + men, scholars, I might say, wuz jest natcherally bound to find it whether + it wuz thar or not. Yes, we've unearthed what Paul would call an argosy, + the grandest craft that ever floated on this here creek, that I never saw + before, an' that I don't know the name uv. She's bein' floated out now, + an' I, the Gran' Hidalgo an' Majordomo, hev come to tell the princes and + princesses, an' the dukes and dukesses, an' all the other gran' an' mighty + passengers, that the barge o' the Dog o' Venice is in the stream, an' the + Dog, which is Henry Ware, is waitin', settin' on the Pup to welcome ye.” + </p> + <p> + “Sol,” said Long Jim, “you do talk a power uv foolishness, with your Dogs + an' Pups.” + </p> + <p> + “It ain't foolishness,” rejoined the shiftless one. “I heard Paul read it + out o' a book oncet, plain ez day. They've been ruled by Dogs at Venice + for more than a thousand years, an' on big 'casions the Dog comes down a + canal in a golden barge, settin' on the Pup. I'll admit it 'pears strange + to me, too, but who are you an' me, Jim Hart, to question the ways of + foreign countries, thousands o' miles on the other side o' the sea?” + </p> + <p> + “They've found the boat,” said Tom Ross, “an' that's enough!” + </p> + <p> + “Is it really true?” asked Mrs. Newton. + </p> + <p> + “It is,” replied Shif'less Sol, “an' Henry an' Paul are in it, waitin' fur + us. We're thinkin', Mrs. Newton, that the roughest part of your trip is + over.” + </p> + <p> + In another five minutes all were in the boat, which was a really fine one, + and they were delighted. Mary Newton for the first time broke down and + wept, and no one disturbed her. The five spread the blankets on the bottom + of the boat, where the children soon went to sleep once more, and Tom Ross + and Shif'less Sol took the oars. + </p> + <p> + “Back in a boat ag'in,” said the shiftless one exultantly. “Makes me feel + like old times. My fav'rite mode o' travelin' when Jim Hart, 'stead o' me, + is at the oars.” + </p> + <p> + “Which is most o' the time,” said Long Jim. + </p> + <p> + It was indeed a wonderful change to these people worn by the wilderness. + They lay at ease now, while two pairs of powerful arms, with scarcely an + effort, propelled the boat along the stream. The woman herself lay down on + the blankets and fell asleep with the children. Henry at the prow, Tom + Ross at the stern, and Paul amidships watched in silence, but with their + rifles across their knees. They knew that the danger was far from over. + Other Indians were likely to use this stream, unknown to them, as a + highway, and those who survived of their original captors could pick up + their trail by daylight. And the Senecas, being mad for revenge, would + surely get help and follow. Henry believed that the theory of returning + toward the Wyoming Valley was sound. That region had been so thoroughly + ravaged now that all the Indians would be going northward. If they could + float down a day or so without molestation, they would probably be safe. + The creek, or, rather, little river, broadened, flowing with a smooth, + fairly swift current. The forest on either side was dense with oak, + hickory, maple, and other splendid trees, often with a growth of + underbrush. The three riflemen never ceased to watch intently. Henry + always looked ahead. It would have been difficult for any ambushed + marksman to have escaped his notice. But nothing occurred to disturb them. + Once a deer came down to drink, and fled away at sight of the phantom boat + gliding almost without noise on the still waters. Once the far scream of a + panther came from the woods, but Mary Newton and her children, sleeping + soundly, did not hear it. The five themselves knew the nature of the + sound, and paid no attention. The boat went steadily on, the three + riflemen never changing their position, and soon the day began to come. + Little arrows of golden light pierced through the foliage of the trees, + and sparkled on the surface of the water. In the cast the red sun was + coming from his nightly trip. Henry looked down at the sleepers. They were + overpowered by exhaustion, and would not awake of their own accord for a + long time. + </p> + <p> + Shif'less Sol caught his look. + </p> + <p> + “Why not let 'em sleep on?” he said. + </p> + <p> + Then he and Jim Hart took the oars, and the shiftless one and Tom Ross + resumed their rifles. The day was coming fast, and the whole forest was + soon transfused with light. + </p> + <p> + No one of the five had slept during the night. They did not feel the need + of sleep, and they were upborne, too, by a great exaltation. They had + saved the prisoners thus far from a horrible fate, and they were firmly + resolved to reach, with them, some strong settlement and safety. They + felt, too, a sense of exultation over Brant, Sangerachte, Hiokatoo, the + Butlers, the Johnsons, Wyatt, and all the crew that had committed such + terrible devastation in the Wyoming Valley and elsewhere. + </p> + <p> + The full day clothed the earth in a light that turned from silver to gold, + and the woman and the children still slept. The five chewed some strips of + venison, and looked rather lugubriously at the pieces they were saving for + Mary Newton and the children. + </p> + <p> + “We ought to hev more'n that,” said Shif'less Sol. “Ef the worst comes to + the worst, we've got to land somewhar an' shoot a deer.” + </p> + <p> + “But not yet,” said Henry in a whisper, lest he wake the sleepers. “I + think we'll come into the Susquehanna pretty soon, and its width will be a + good thing for us. I wish we were there now. I don't like this narrow + stream. Its narrowness affords too good an ambush.” + </p> + <p> + “Anyway, the creek is broadenin' out fast,” said the shiftless one, “an' + that is a good sign. What's that you see ahead, Henry—ain't it a + river?” + </p> + <p> + “It surely is,” replied Henry, who caught sight of a broad expanse of + water, “and it's the Susquehanna. Pull hard, Sol! In five more minutes + we'll be in the river.” + </p> + <p> + It was less than five when they turned into the current of the + Susquehanna, and less than five more when they heard a shout behind them, + and saw at least a dozen canoes following. The canoes were filled with + Indians and Tories, and they had spied the fugitives. + </p> + <p> + “Keep the women and the children down, Paul,” cried Henry. + </p> + <p> + All knew that Henry and Shif'less Sol were the best shots, and, without a + word, Long Jim and Tom, both powerful and skilled watermen, swung heavily + on the oars, while Henry and Shif'less Sol sat in the rear with their + rifles ready. Mary Newton awoke with a cry at the sound of the shots, and + started to rise, but Paul pushed her down. + </p> + <p> + “We're on the Susquehanna now, Mrs. Newton,” he said, “and we are pursued. + The Indians and Tories have just seen us, but don't be afraid. The two who + are watching there are the best shots in the world.” + </p> + <p> + He looked significantly at Henry and Shif'less Sol, crouching in the stern + of the boat like great warriors from some mighty past, kings of the forest + whom no one could overcome, and her courage came back. The children, too, + had awakened with frightened cries, but she and Paul quickly soothed them, + and, obedient to commands, the four, and Mary Newton with them, lay flat + upon the bottom of the boat, which was now being sent forward rapidly by + Jim Hart and Tom. Paul took up his rifle and sat in a waiting attitude, + either to relieve one of the men at the oars or to shoot if necessary. + </p> + <p> + The clear sun made forest and river vivid in its light. The Indians, after + their first cry, made no sound, but so powerful were Long Jim and Tom that + they were gaining but little, although some of the boats contained six or + eight rowers. + </p> + <p> + As the light grew more intense Henry made out the two white faces in the + first boat. One was that of Braxton Wyatt, and the other, he was quite + sure, belonged to the infamous Walter Butler. Hot anger swept through all + his veins, and the little pulses in his temples began to beat like trip + hammers. Now the picture of Wyoming, the battle, the massacre, the + torture, and Queen Esther wielding her great tomahawk on the bound + captives, grew astonishingly vivid, and it was printed blood red on his + brain. The spirit of anger and defiance, of a desire to taunt those who + had done such things, leaped up in his heart. + </p> + <p> + “Are you there, Braxton Wyatt?” he called clearly across the intervening + water. “Yes, I see that it is you, murderer of women and children, + champion of the fire and stake, as savage as any of the savages. And it is + you, too, Walter Butler, wickeder son of a wicked father. Come a little + closer, won't you? We've messengers here for both of you!” + </p> + <p> + He tapped lightly the barrel of his own rifle and that of Shif'less Sol, + and repeated his request that they come a little closer. + </p> + <p> + They understood his words, and they understood, also, the significant + gesture when he patted the barrel of the rifles. The hearts of both Butler + and Wyatt were for the moment afraid, and their boat dropped back to third + place. Henry laughed aloud when he saw. The Viking rage was still upon + him. This was the primeval wilderness, and these were no common foes. + </p> + <p> + “I see that you don't want to receive our little messengers,” he cried. + “Why have you dropped back to third place in the line, Braxton Wyatt and + Walter Butler, when you were first only a moment ago? Are you cowards as + well as murderers of women and children?” + </p> + <p> + “That's pow'ful good talk,” said Shif'less Sol admiringly. “Henry, you're + a real orator. Give it to 'em, an' mebbe I'll get a chance at one o' them + renegades.” + </p> + <p> + It seemed that Henry's words had an effect, because the boat of the + renegades pulled up somewhat, although it did not regain first place. Thus + the chase proceeded down the Susquehanna. + </p> + <p> + The Indian fleet was gaining a little, and Shif'less Sol called Henry's + attention to it. + </p> + <p> + “Don't you think I'd better take a shot at one o' them rowers in the first + boat?” he said to Henry. “Wyatt an' Butler are a leetle too fur away.” + </p> + <p> + “I think it would give them a good hint, Sol!” said Henry. “Take that + fellow on the right who is pulling so hard.” + </p> + <p> + The shiftless one raised his rifle, lingered but a little over his aim, + and pulled the trigger. The rower whom Henry had pointed out fell back in + the boat, his hands slipping from the handles of his oars. The boat was + thrown into confusion, and dropped back in the race. Scattering shots were + fired in return, but all fell short, the water spurting up in little jets + where they struck. + </p> + <p> + Henry, who had caught something of the Indian nature in his long stay + among them in the northwest, laughed in loud irony. + </p> + <p> + “That was one of our little messengers, and it found a listener!” he + shouted. “And I see that you are afraid, Braxton Wyatt and Walter Butler, + murderers of women and children! Why don't you keep your proper places in + the front?” + </p> + <p> + “That's the way to talk to 'em,” whispered Shif'less Sol, as he reloaded. + “Keep it up, an' mebbe we kin git a chance at Braxton Wyatt hisself. Since + Wyoming I'd never think o' missin' sech a chance.” + </p> + <p> + “Nor I, either,” said Henry, and he resumed in his powerful tones: “The + place of a leader is in front, isn't it? Then why don't you come up?” + </p> + <p> + Braxton Wyatt and Walter Butler did not come up. They were not lacking in + courage, but Wyatt knew what deadly marksmen the fugitive boat contained, + and he had also told Butler. So they still hung back, although they raged + at Henry Ware's taunts, and permitted the Mohawks and Senecas to take the + lead in the chase. + </p> + <p> + “They're not going to give us a chance,” said Henry. “I'm satisfied of + that. They'll let redskins receive our bullets, though just now I'd rather + it were the two white ones. What do you think, Sol, of that leading boat? + Shouldn't we give another hint?” + </p> + <p> + “I agree with you, Henry,” said the shiftless one. “They're comin' much + too close fur people that ain't properly interduced to us. This promiskus + way o' meetin' up with strangers an' lettin' 'em talk to you jest ez ef + they'd knowed you all their lives hez got to be stopped. It's your time, + Henry, to give 'em a polite hint, an' I jest suggest that you take the big + fellow in the front o' the boat who looks like a Mohawk.” + </p> + <p> + Henry raised his rifle, fired, and the Mohawk would row no more. Again + confusion prevailed in the pursuing fleet, and there was a decline of + enthusiasm. Braxton Wyatt and Walter Butler raged and swore, but, as they + showed no great zeal for the lead themselves, the Iroquois did not gain on + the fugitive boat. They, too, were fast learning that the two who crouched + there with their rifles ready were among the deadliest marksmen in + existence. They fired a dozen shots, perhaps, but their rifles did not + have the long range of the Kentucky weapons, and again the bullets fell + short, causing little jets of water to spring up. + </p> + <p> + “They won't come any nearer, at least not for the present,” said Henry, + “but will hang back just out of rifle range, waiting for some chance to + help them.” + </p> + <p> + Shif'less Sol looked the other way, down the Susquehanna, and announced + that he could see no danger. There was probably no Indian fleet farther + down the river than the one now pursuing them, and the danger was behind + them, not before. + </p> + <p> + Throughout the firing, Silent Tom Ross and Long Jim Hart had not said a + word, but they rowed with a steadiness and power that would have carried + oarsmen of our day to many a victory. Moreover, they had the inducement + not merely of a prize, but of life itself, to row and to row hard. They + had rolled up their sleeves, and the mighty muscles on those arms of woven + steel rose and fell as they sent the boat swiftly with the silver current + of the Susquehanna. + </p> + <p> + Mary Newton still lay on the bottom of the boat. The children had cried + out in fright once or twice at the sound of the firing, but she and Paul + bad soothed them and kept them down. Somehow Mary Newton had become + possessed of a great faith. She noticed the skill, speed, and success with + which the five always worked, and, so long given up to despair, she now + went to the other extreme. With such friends as these coming suddenly out + of the void, everything must succeed. She had no doubt of it, but lay + peacefully on the bottom of the boat, not at all disturbed by the sound of + the shots. + </p> + <p> + Paul and Sol after a while relieved Long Jim and Tom at the oars. The + Iroquois thought it a chance to creep up again, but they were driven back + by a third bullet, and once more kept their distance. Shif'less Sol, while + he pulled as powerfully as Tom Ross, whose place he had taken, + nevertheless was not silent. + </p> + <p> + “I'd like to know the feelin's o' Braxton Wyatt an' that feller Butler,” + he said. “Must be powerful tantalizin' to them to see us here, almost + where they could stretch out their hands an' put 'em on us. Like reachn' + fur ripe, rich fruit, an' failin' to git it by half a finger's length.” + </p> + <p> + “They are certainly not pleased,” said Henry, “but this must end some way + or other, you know.” + </p> + <p> + “I say so, too, now that I'm a-rowin',” rejoined the shiftless one, “but + when my turn at the oars is finished I wouldn't care. Ez I've said more'n + once before, floatin' down a river with somebody else pullin' at the oars + is the life jest suited to me.” + </p> + <p> + Henry looked up. “A summer thunderstorm is coming,” he said, “and from the + look of things it's going to be pretty black. Then's when we must dodge + 'em.” + </p> + <p> + He was a good weather prophet. In a half hour the sky began to darken + rapidly. There was a great deal of thunder and lightning, but when the + rain came the air was almost as dark as night. Mary Newton and her + children were covered as much as possible with the blankets, and then they + swung the boat rapidly toward the eastern shore. They had already lost + sight of their pursuers in the darkness, and as they coasted along the + shore they found a large creek flowing into the river from the east. + </p> + <p> + They ran up the creek, and were a full mile from its mouth when the rain + ceased. Then the sun came out bright and warm, quickly drying everything. + </p> + <p> + They pulled about ten miles farther, until the creek grew too shallow for + them, when they hid the boat among bushes and took to the land. Two days + later they arrived at a strong fort and settlement, where Mary Newton and + her four children, safe and well, were welcomed by relatives who had + mourned them as dead. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0015" id="link2HCH0015"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XV. “THE ALCOVE” + </h2> + <p> + They arrived at the fort as evening was coming on, and as soon as food was + served to them the five sought sleep. The frontiersmen usually slept + soundly and for a long time after prodigious exertions, and Henry and his + comrades were too wise to make an exception. They secured a single room + inside the fort, one given to them gladly, because Mary Newton had already + spread the fame of their exploits, and, laying aside their hunting shirts + and leggins, prepared for rest. + </p> + <p> + “Jim,” said Shif'less Sol, pointing to a low piece of furniture, flat and + broad, in one corner of the room, “that's a bed. Mebbe you don't think it, + but people lay on top o' that an' sleep thar.” + </p> + <p> + Long Jim grinned. + </p> + <p> + “Mebbe you're right, Sol,” he said. “I hev seen sech things ez that, an' + mebbe I've slep' on 'em, but in all them gran' old tales Paul tells us + about I never heard uv no big heroes sleepin' in beds. I guess the ground + wuz good 'nough for A-killus, Hector, Richard-Kur-de-Leong, an' all the + rest uv that fightin' crowd, an' ez I'm that sort uv a man myself I'll + jest roll down here on the floor. Bein' as you're tender, Sol Hyde, an' + not used to hard life in the woods, you kin take that bed yourself, an' in + the mornin' your wally will be here with hot water in a silver mug an' a + razor to shave you, an' he'll dress you in a ruffled red silk shirt an' a + blue satin waistcoat, an' green satin breeches jest comin' to the knee, + where they meet yellow silk stockin's risin' out uv purple satin slippers, + an' then he'll clap on your head a big wig uv snow-white hair, fallin' all + about your shoulders an' he'll buckle a silver sword to your side, an' + he'll say: 'Gentlemen, him that hez long been known ez Shif'less Sol, an' + desarvin' the name, but who in reality is the King o' France, is now + before you. Down on your knees an' say your prayers!'” + </p> + <p> + Shif'less Sol stared in astonishment. + </p> + <p> + “You say a wally will do all that fur me, Jim? Now, what under the sun is + a wally?” + </p> + <p> + “I heard all about 'em from Paul,” replied Long Jim in a tone of intense + satisfaction. “A wally is a man what does fur you what you ought to do fur + yourself.” + </p> + <p> + “Then I want one,” said Shif'less Sol emphatically. “He'd jest suit a lazy + man like me. An' ez fur your makin' me the King o' France, mebbe you're + more'n half right about that without knowin' it. I hev all the instincts + uv a king. I like to be waited on, I like to eat when I'm hungry, I like + to drink when I'm thirsty, I like to rest when I'm tired, an' I like to + sleep when I'm sleepy. You've heard o' children changed at birth by + fairies an' sech like. Mebbe I'm the real King o' France, after all, an' + my instincts are handed down to me from a thousand royal ancestors.” + </p> + <p> + “Mebbe it's so,” rejoined Long Jim. “I've heard that thar hev been a + pow'ful lot uv foolish kings.” + </p> + <p> + With that he put his two blankets upon the floor, lay down upon them, and + was sound asleep in five minutes. But Shif'less Sol beat him to + slumberland by at least a minute, and the others were not more than two + minutes behind Sol. + </p> + <p> + Henry was the first up the next morning. A strong voice shouted in his + ear: “Henry Ware, by all that's glorious,” and a hand pressed his fingers + together in an iron grasp. Henry beheld the tall, thin figure and smiling + brown face of Adam Colfax, with whom he had made that adventurous journey + up the Mississippi and Ohio. + </p> + <p> + “And the others?” was the first question of Adam Colfax. + </p> + <p> + “They're all here asleep inside. We've been through a lot of things, but + we're as sound as ever.” + </p> + <p> + “That's always a safe prediction to make,” said Adam Colfax, smiling. “I + never saw five other human beings with such a capacity for getting out of + danger.” + </p> + <p> + “We were all at Wyoming, and we all still live.” + </p> + <p> + The face of the New Englander darkened. + </p> + <p> + “Wyoming!” he exclaimed. “I cannot hear of it without every vein growing + hot within me.” + </p> + <p> + “We saw things done there,” said Henry gravely, “the telling of which few + men can bear to hear.” + </p> + <p> + “I know! I know!” exclaimed Adam Colfax. “The news of it has spread + everywhere!” + </p> + <p> + “What we want,” said Henry, “is revenge. It is a case in which we must + strike back, and strike hard. If this thing goes on, not a white life will + be safe on the whole border from the St. Lawrence to the Mississippi.” + </p> + <p> + “It is true,” said Adam Colfax, “and we would send an army now against the + Iroquois and their allies, but, Henry, my lad, our fortunes are at their + lowest there in the East, where the big armies are fighting. That is the + reason why nobody has been sent to protect our rear guard, which has + suffered so terribly. You may be sure, too, that the Iroquois will strike + in this region again as often and as hard as they can. I make more than + half a guess that you and your comrades are here because you know this.” + </p> + <p> + He looked shrewdly at the boy. + </p> + <p> + “Yes,” said Henry, “that is so. Somehow we were drawn into it, but being + here we are glad to stay. Timmendiquas, the great chief who fought us so + fiercely on the Ohio, is with the Iroquois, with a detachment of his + Wyandots, and while he, as I know, frowns on the Wyoming massacre, he + means to help Thayendanegea to the end.” + </p> + <p> + Adam Colfax looked graver than ever. + </p> + <p> + “That is bad,” he said. “Timmendiquas is a mighty warrior and leader, but + there is also another way of looking at it. His presence here will relieve + somewhat the pressure on Kentucky. I ought to tell you, Henry, that we got + through safely with our supplies to the Continental army, and they could + not possibly have been more welcome. They arrived just in time.” + </p> + <p> + The others came forth presently and were greeted with the same warmth by + Adam Colfax. + </p> + <p> + “It is shore mighty good for the eyes to see you, Mr. Colfax,” said + Shif'less Sol, “an' it's a good sign. Our people won when you were on the + Mississippi an' the Ohio'—an' now that you're here, they're goin' to + win again.” + </p> + <p> + “I think we are going to win here and everywhere,” said Adam Colfax, “but + it is not because there is any omen in my presence. It is because our + people will not give up, and because our quarrel is just.” + </p> + <p> + The stanch New Englander left on the following day for points farther + east, planning and carrying out some new scheme to aid the patriot cause, + and the five, on the day after that, received a message written on a piece + of paper which was found fastened to a tree on the outskirts of the + settlement. It was addressed to “Henry Ware and Those with Him,” and it + read: + </p> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + “You need not think because you escaped us at Wyoming and on + the Susquehanna that you will ever get back to Kentucky. + There is amighty league now on the whole border between the + Indians and the soldiers of the king. You have seen at + Wyoming what we can do, and you will see at other places and + on a greater scale what we will do. + + “I find my own position perfect. It is true that + Timmendiquas does not like me, but he is not king here. I + am the friend of the great Brant; and Hiokatoo, Sangerachte, + Hahiron, and the other chiefs esteem me. I am thick with + Colonel John Butler, the victor of Wyoming; his son, the + valiant and worthy Walter Butler; Sir John Johnson, Colonel + Guy Johnson, Colonel Daniel Claus, and many other eminent + men and brave soldiers. + + “I write these words, Henry Ware, both to you and your + comrades, to tell you that our cause will prevail over + yours. I do not doubt that when you read this you will try + to escape to Kentucky, but when we have destroyed everything + along the eastern border, as we have at Wyoming, we shall + come to Kentucky, and not a rebel face will be left there. + + “I am sending this to tell you that there is no hole in + which you can hide where we cannot reach you. With my + respects, BRAXTON WYATT.” + </pre> + <p> + Henry regarded the letter with contempt. + </p> + <p> + “A renegade catches something of the Indian nature,” he said, “and always + likes to threaten and boast.” + </p> + <p> + But Shif'less Sol was highly indignant. + </p> + <p> + “Sometimes I think,” he said, “that the invention o' writin' wuz a + mistake. You kin send a man a letter an' call him names an' talk mighty + big when he's a hundred miles away, but when you've got to stan' up to him + face to face an' say it, wa'al, you change your tune an' sing a pow'ful + sight milder. You ain't gen'ally any roarin' lion then.” + </p> + <p> + “I think I'll keep this letter,” said Henry, “an' we five will give an + answer to it later on.” + </p> + <p> + He tapped the muzzle of his rifle, and every one of the four gravely + tapped the muzzle of his own rifle after him. It was a significant action. + Nothing more was needed. + </p> + <p> + The next morning they bade farewell to the grateful Mary Newton and her + children, and with fresh supplies of food and ammunition, chiefly + ammunition, left the fort, plunging once more into the deep forest. It was + their intention to do as much damage as they could to the Iroquois, until + some great force, capable of dealing with the whole Six Nations, was + assembled. Meanwhile, five redoubtable and determined borderers could + achieve something. + </p> + <p> + It was about the first of August, and they were in the midst of the great + heats. But it was a period favoring Indian activity, which was now at its + highest pitch. Since Wyoming, loaded with scalps, flushed with victory, + and aided by the king's men, they felt equal to anything. Only the + strongest of the border settlements could hold them back. The colonists + here were so much reduced, and so little help could be sent them from the + East, that the Iroquois were able to divide into innumerable small parties + and rake the country as with a fine tooth comb. They never missed a lone + farmhouse, and rarely was any fugitive in the woods able to evade them. + And they were constantly fed from the North with arms, ammunition, rewards + for scalps, bounties, and great promises. + </p> + <p> + But toward the close of August the Iroquois began to hear of a silent and + invisible foe, an evil spirit that struck them, and that struck hard. + There were battles of small forces in which sometimes not a single + Iroquois escaped. Captives were retaken in a half-dozen instances, and the + warriors who escaped reported that their assailants were of uncommon size + and power. They had all the cunning of the Indian and more, and they + carried rifles that slew at a range double that of those served to them at + the British posts. It was a certainty that they were guided by the evil + spirit, because every attempt to capture them failed miserably. No one + could find where they slept, unless it was those who never came back + again. + </p> + <p> + The Iroquois raged, and so did the Butlers and the Johnsons and Braxton + Wyatt. This was a flaw in their triumph, and the British and Tories saw, + also, that it was beginning to affect the superstitions of their red + allies. Braxton Wyatt made a shrewd guess as to the identity of the + raiders, but he kept quiet. It is likely, also, that Timmendiquas knew, + but be, too, said nothing. So the influence of the raiders grew. While + their acts were great, superstition exaggerated them and their powers + manifold. And it is true that their deeds were extraordinary. They were + heard of on the Susquehanna, then on the Delaware and its branches, on the + Chemung and the Chenango, as far south as Lackawaxen Creek, and as far + north as Oneida Lake. It is likely that nobody ever accomplished more for + a defense than did those five in the waning months of the summer. Late in + September the most significant of all these events occurred. A party of + eight Tories, who had borne a terrible part in the Wyoming affair, was + attacked on the shores of Otsego Lake with such deadly fierceness that + only two escaped alive to the camp of Sir John Johnson. Brant sent out six + war parties, composed of not less than twenty warriors apiece, to seek + revenge, but they found nothing. + </p> + <p> + Henry and his comrades had found a remarkable camp at the edge of one of + the beautiful small lakes in which the region abounds. The cliff at that + point was high, but a creek entered into it through a ravine. At the + entrance of the creek into the river they found a deep alcove, or, rather, + cave in the rock. It ran so far back that it afforded ample shelter from + the rain, and that was all they wanted. It was about halfway between the + top and bottom of the cliff, and was difficult of approach both from below + and above. Unless completely surprised-a very unlikely thing with them-the + five could hold it against any force as long as their provisions lasted. + They also built a boat large enough for five, which they hid among the + bushes at the lake's edge. They were thus provided with a possible means + of escape across the water in case of the last emergency. + </p> + <p> + Jim and Paul, who, as usual, filled the role of housekeepers, took great + delight in fitting up this forest home, which the fittingly called “The + Alcove.” The floor of solid stone was almost smooth, and with the aid of + other heavy stones they broke off all projections, until one could walk + over it in the dark in perfect comfort. They hung the walls with skins of + deer which they killed in the adjacent woods, and these walls furnished + many nooks and crannies for the storing of necessities. They also, with + much hard effort, brought many loads of firewood, which Long Jim was to + use for his cooking. He built his little fireplace of stones so near the + mouth of “The Alcove” that the smoke would pass out and be lost in the + thick forest all about. If the wind happened to be blowing toward the + inside of the cave, the smoke, of course, would come in on them all, but + Jim would not be cooking then. + </p> + <p> + Nor did their operations cease until they had supplied “The Alcove” + plentifully with food, chiefly jerked deer meat, although there was no way + in which they could store water, and for that they had to take their + chances. But their success, the product of skill and everlasting caution, + was really remarkable. Three times they were trapped within a few miles of + “The Alcove,” but the pursuers invariably went astray on the hard, rocky + ground, and the pursued would also take the precaution to swim down the + creek before climbing up to “The Alcove.” Nobody could follow a trail in + the face of such difficulties. + </p> + <p> + It was Henry and Shif'less Sol who were followed the second time, but they + easily shook off their pursuers as the twilight was coming, half waded, + half swam down the creek, and climbed up to “The Alcove,” where the others + were waiting for them with cooked food and clear cold water. When they had + eaten and were refreshed, Shif'less Sol sat at the mouth of “The Alcove,” + where a pleasant breeze entered, despite the foliage that hid the + entrance. The shiftless one was in an especially happy mood. + </p> + <p> + “It's a pow'ful comf'table feelin',” he said, “to set up in a nice safe + place like this, an' feel that the woods is full o' ragin' heathen, + seekin' to devour you, and wonderin' whar you've gone to. Thar's a heap in + knowin' how to pick your home. I've thought more than once 'bout that old + town, Troy, that Paul tells us 'bout, an' I've 'bout made up my mind that + it wuzn't destroyed 'cause Helen eat too many golden apples, but 'cause + old King Prime, or whoever built the place, put it down in a plain. That + wuz shore a pow'ful foolish thing. Now, ef he'd built it on a mountain, + with a steep fall-off on every side, thar wouldn't hev been enough Greeks + in all the earth to take it, considerin' the miserable weepins they used + in them times. Why, Hector could hev set tight on the walls, laughin' at + 'em, 'stead o' goin' out in the plain an' gittin' killed by A-killus, fur + which I've always been sorry.” + </p> + <p> + “It's 'cause people nowadays have more sense than they did in them ancient + times that Paul tells about,” said Long Jim. “Now, thar wuz 'Lyssus, ten + or twelve years gittin' home from Troy. Allus runnin' his ship on the + rocks, hoppin' into trouble with four-legged giants, one-eyed women, an' + sech like. Why didn't he walk home through the woods, killin' game on the + way, an' hevin' the best time he ever knowed? Then thar wuz the + keerlessness of A-killus' ma, dippin' him in that river so no arrow could + enter him, but holdin' him by the heel an' keepin' it out o' the water, + which caused his death the very first time Paris shot it off with his + little bow an' arrer. Why didn't she hev sense enough to let the heel go + under, too. She could hev dragged it out in two seconds an' no harm done + 'ceptin', perhaps, a little more yellin' on the part of A-killus.” + </p> + <p> + “I've always thought Paul hez got mixed 'bout that Paris story,” said Tom + Ross. “I used to think Paris was the name uv a town, not a man, an' I'm + beginnin' to think so ag'in, sence I've been in the East, 'cause I know + now that's whar the French come from.” + </p> + <p> + “But Paris was the name of a man,” persisted Paul. “Maybe the French named + their capital after the Paris of the Trojan wars.” + </p> + <p> + “Then they showed mighty poor jedgment,” said Shif'less Sol. “Ef I'd named + my capital after any them old fellers, I'd have called it Hector.” + </p> + <p> + “You can have danger enough when you're on the tops of hills,” said Henry, + who was sitting near the mouth of the cave. “Come here, you fellows, and + see what's passing down the lake.” + </p> + <p> + They looked out, and in the moonlight saw six large war canoes being rowed + slowly down the lake, which, though narrow, was quite long. Each canoe + held about a dozen warriors, and Henry believed that one of them contained + two white faces, evidently those of Braxton Wyatt and Walter Butler. + </p> + <p> + “Like ez not they've been lookin' fur us,” said Tom Ross. + </p> + <p> + “Quite likely,” said Henry, “and at the same time they may be engaged in + some general movement. See, they will pass within fifty feet of the base + of the cliff.” + </p> + <p> + The five lay on the cave floor, looking through the vines and foliage, and + they felt quite sure that they were in absolute security. The six long war + canoes moved slowly. The moonlight came out more brightly, and flooded all + the bronze faces of the Iroquois. Henry now saw that he was not mistaken, + and that Braxton Wyatt and Walter Butler were really in the first boat. + From the cover of the cliff he could have picked off either with a rifle + bullet, and the temptation was powerful. But he knew that it would lead to + an immediate siege, from which they might not escape, and which at least + would check their activities and plans for a long time. Similar impulses + flitted through the minds of the other four, but all kept still, although + fingers flitted noiselessly along rifle stocks until they touched + triggers. + </p> + <p> + The Iroquois war fleet moved slowly on, the two renegades never dreaming + of the danger that had threatened them. An unusually bright ray of + moonshine fell full upon Braxton Wyatt's face as he paused, and Henry's + finger played with the trigger of his rifle. It was hard, very hard, to + let such an opportunity go by, but it must be done. + </p> + <p> + The fleet moved steadily down the lake, the canoes keeping close together. + They turned into mere dots upon the water, became smaller and smaller + still, until they vanished in the darkness. + </p> + <p> + “I'm thinkin',” said Shif'less Sol, “that thar's some kind uv a movement + on foot. While they may hev been lookin' fur us, it ain't likely that + they'd send sixty warriors or so fur sech a purpose. I heard something + three or four days ago from a hunter about an attack upon the Iroquois + town of Oghwaga.” + </p> + <p> + “It's most likely true,” said Henry, “and it seems to me that it's our + business to join that expedition. What do you fellows think?” + </p> + <p> + “Just as you do,” they replied with unanimity. + </p> + <p> + “Then we leave this place and start in the morning,” said Henry. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0016" id="link2HCH0016"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XVI. THE FIRST BLOW + </h2> + <p> + Summer was now waning, the foliage was taking on its autumn hues, and + Indian war parties still surged over the hills and mountains, but the five + avoided them all. On one or two occasions they would have been willing to + stop and fight, but they had bigger work on hand. They had received from + others confirmation of the report that Long Jim had heard from the + hunters, and they were quite sure that a strong force was advancing to + strike the first blow in revenge for Wyoming. Curiously enough, this body + was commanded by a fourth Butler, Colonel William Butler, and according to + report it was large and its leaders capable. + </p> + <p> + When the avenging force lay at the Johnstown settlement on the Delaware, + it was joined by the five. They were introduced to the colonel by the + celebrated scout and hunter, Tini Murphy, whom they had met several times + in the woods, and they were received warmly. + </p> + <p> + “I've heard of you,” said Colonel Butler with much warmth, “both from + hunters and scouts, and also from Adam Colfax. Two of you were to have + been tomahawked by Queen Esther at Wyoming.” + </p> + <p> + Henry indicated the two. + </p> + <p> + “What you saw at Wyoming is not likely to decrease your zeal against the + Indians and their white allies,” continued Colonel Butler. + </p> + <p> + “Anyone who was there,” said Henry, “would feel all his life, the desire + to punish those who did it.” + </p> + <p> + “I think so, too, from all that I have heard,” continued Colonel Butler. + “It is the business of you young men to keep ahead of our column and warn + us of what lies before us. I believe you have volunteered for that duty.” + </p> + <p> + The five looked over Colonel Butler's little army, which numbered only two + hundred and fifty men, but they were all strong and brave, and it was the + best force that could yet be sent to the harassed border. It might, after + all, strike a blow for Wyoming if it marched into no ambush, and Henry and + his comrades were resolved to guard it from that greatest of all dangers. + </p> + <p> + When the little column moved from the Johnstown settlement, the five were + far ahead, passing through the woods, up the Susquehanna, toward the + Indian villages that lay on its banks, though a great distance above + Wyoming. The chief of these was Oghwaga, and, knowing that it was the + destination of the little army, they were resolved to visit it, or at + least come so near it that they could see what manner of place it was. + </p> + <p> + “If it's a big village,” said Colonel Butler, “it will be too strong to + attack, but it may be that most of the warriors are absent on + expeditions.” + </p> + <p> + They had obtained before starting very careful descriptions of the + approaches to the village, and toward the close of an October evening they + knew that they were near Oghwaga, the great base of the Iroquois supplies. + They considered it very risky and unwise to approach in the daytime, and + accordingly they lay in the woods until the dark should come. + </p> + <p> + The appearance of the wilderness had changed greatly in the three months + since Wyoming. All the green was now gone, and it was tinted red and + yellow and brown. The skies were a mellow blue, and there was a slight + haze over the forest, but the air had the wonderful crispness and + freshness of the American autumn. It inspired every one of the five with + fresh zeal and energy, because they believed the first blow was about to + be struck. + </p> + <p> + About ten o'clock at night they approached Oghwaga, and the reports of its + importance were confirmed. They had not before seen an Indian village with + so many signs of permanence. They passed two or three orchards of apple + and peach trees, and they saw other indications of cultivation like that + of the white farmer. + </p> + <p> + “It ain't a bad-lookin' town,” said Long Jim Hart. “But it'll look wuss,” + said Shif'less Sol, “onless they've laid an ambush somewhar. I don't like + to see houses an' sech like go up in fire an' smoke, but after what wuz + done at Wyomin' an' all through that valley, burnin' is a light thing.” + </p> + <p> + “We're bound to strike back with all our might,” said Paul, who had the + softest heart of them all. + </p> + <p> + “Now, I wonder who's in this here town,” said Tom Ross. “Mebbe + Timmendiquas an' Brant an' all them renegades.” + </p> + <p> + “It may be so,” said Henry. “This is their base and store of supplies. Oh, + if Colonel Butler were only here with all his men, what a rush we could + make!” + </p> + <p> + So great was their eagerness that they crept closer to the village, + passing among some thick clusters of grapevines. Henry was in the lead, + and he heard a sudden snarl. A large cur of the kind that infest Indian + villages leaped straight at him. + </p> + <p> + The very suddenness of the attack saved Henry and his comrades from the + consequences of an alarm. He dropped his rifle instinctively, and seized + the dog by the throat with both hands. A bark following the snarl had + risen to the animal's throat, but it was cut short there. The hands of the + great youth pressed tighter and tighter, and the dog was lifted from the + earth. The four stood quietly beside their comrade, knowing that no alarm + would be made now. + </p> + <p> + The dog kicked convulsively, then hung without motion or noise. Henry cast + the dead body aside, picked up his rifle, and then all five of them sank + softly down in the shelter of the grapevines. About fifteen yards away an + Indian warrior was walking cautiously along and looking among the vines. + Evidently he had heard the snarl of the dog, and was seeking the cause. + But it had been only a single sound, and he would not look far. Yet the + hearts of the five beat a little faster as he prowled among the vines, and + their nerves were tense for action should the need for it come. + </p> + <p> + The Indian, a Mohawk, came within ten yards of them, but he did not see + the five figures among the vines, blending darkly with the dark growth, + and presently, satisfied that the sound he had heard was of no importance, + he walked in another direction, and passed out of sight. + </p> + <p> + The five, not daunted at all by this living proof of risk, crept to the + very edge of the clusters of grapevines, and looked upon an open space, + beyond which stood some houses made of wood; but their attention was + centered upon a figure that stood in the open. + </p> + <p> + Although the distance was too great and the light too poor to disclose the + features, every one of the scouts recognized the figure. It could be none + other than that of Timmendiquas, the great White Lightning of the + Wyandots. He was pacing back and forth, somewhat in the fashion of the + white man, and his manner implied thought. + </p> + <p> + “I could bring him down from here with a bullet,” said Shif'less Sol, “but + I ain't ever goin' to shoot at the chief, Henry.” + </p> + <p> + “No,” said Henry, “nor will I. But look, there's another.” + </p> + <p> + A second figure came out of the dark and joined the first. It was also + that of a chief, powerful and tall, though not as tall as Timmendiquas. It + was Thayendanegea. Then three white figures appeared. One was that of + Braxton Wyatt, and the others they took to be those of “Indian” Butler and + his son, Walter Butler. After a talk of a minute or two they entered one + of the wooden houses. + </p> + <p> + “It's to be a conference of some kind,” whispered Henry. “I wish I could + look in on it.” + </p> + <p> + “And I,” said the others together. + </p> + <p> + “Well, we know this much,” continued Henry. “No great force of the + Iroquois is present, and if Colonel Butler's men come up quickly, we can + take the town.” + </p> + <p> + “It's a chance not to be lost,” said Paul. + </p> + <p> + They crept slowly away from the village, not stopping until they reached + the crest of a hill, from which they could see the roofs of two or three + of the Indian houses. + </p> + <p> + “I've a feeling in me,” said Paul, “that the place is doomed. We'll strike + the first blow for Wyoming.” + </p> + <p> + They neither slept nor rested that night, but retraced their trail with + the utmost speed toward the marching American force, going in Indian file + through the wilderness. Henry, as usual, led; Shif'less Sol followed, then + came Paul, and then Long Jim, while Silent Tom was the rear guard. They + traveled at great speed, and, some time after daylight, met the advance of + the colonial force under Captain William Gray. + </p> + <p> + William Gray was a gallant young officer, but he was startled a little + when five figures as silent as phantoms appeared. But he uttered an + exclamation of delight when he recognized the leader, Henry. + </p> + <p> + “What have you found?” he asked eagerly. + </p> + <p> + “We've been to Oghwaga,” replied the youth, “and we went all about the + town. They do not suspect our coming. At least, they did not know when we + left. We saw Brant, Timmendiquas, the Butlers, and Wyatt enter the house + for a conference.” + </p> + <p> + “And now is our chance,” said eager young William Gray. “What if we should + take the town, and with it these men, at one blow.” + </p> + <p> + “We can scarcely hope for as much as that,” said Henry, who knew that men + like Timmendiquas and Thayendanegea were not likely to allow themselves to + be seized by so small a force, “but we can hope for a good victory.” + </p> + <p> + The young captain rode quickly back to his comrades with the news, and, + led by the five, the whole force pushed forward with all possible haste. + William Gray was still sanguine of a surprise, but the young riflemen did + not expect it. Indian sentinels were sure to be in the forest between them + and Oghwaga. Yet they said nothing to dash this hope. Henry had already + seen enough to know the immense value of enthusiasm, and the little army + full of zeal would accomplish much if the chance came. Besides the young + captain, William Gray, there was a lieutenant named Taylor, who had been + in the battle at Wyoming, but who had escaped the massacre. The five had + not met him there, but the common share in so great a tragedy proved a tie + between them. Taylor's name was Robert, but all the other officers, and + some of the men for that matter, who had known him in childhood called him + Bob. He was but little older than Henry, and his earlier youth, before + removal to Wyoming, had been passed in Connecticut, a country that was to + the colonials thickly populated and containing great towns, such as + Hartford and New Haven. + </p> + <p> + A third close friend whom they soon found was a man unlike any other that + they had ever seen. His name was Cornelius Heemskerk. Holland was his + birthplace, but America was his nation. He was short and extremely fat, + but he had an agility that amazed the five when they first saw it + displayed. He talked much, and his words sounded like grumbles, but the + unctuous tone and the smile that accompanied them indicated to the + contrary. He formed for Shif'less Sol an inexhaustible and entertaining + study in character. + </p> + <p> + “I ain't quite seen his like afore,” said the shiftless one to Paul. + “First time I run acrost him I thought he would tumble down among the + first bushes he met. 'Stead o' that, he sailed right through 'em, makin' + never a trip an' no noise at all, same ez Long Jim's teeth sinkin' into a + juicy venison steak.” + </p> + <p> + “I've heard tell,” said Long Jim, who also contemplated the prodigy, “that + big, chunky, awkward-lookin' things are sometimes ez spry ez you. They say + that the Hipperpotamus kin outrun the giraffe across the sands uv Afriky, + an' I know from pussonal experience that the bigger an' clumsier a b'ar is + the faster he kin make you scoot fur your life. But he's the real Dutch, + ain't he, Paul, one uv them fellers that licked the Spanish under the Duke + uv Alivy an' Belisarry?” + </p> + <p> + “Undoubtedly,” replied Paul, who did not consider it necessary to correct + Long Jim's history, “and I'm willing to predict to you, Jim Hart, that + Heemskerk will be a mighty good man in any fight that we may have.” + </p> + <p> + Heemskerk rolled up to them. He seemed to have a sort of circular motion + like that of a revolving tube, but he kept pace with the others, + nevertheless, and he showed no signs of exertion. + </p> + <p> + “Don't you think it a funny thing that I, Cornelius Heemskerk, am here?” + he said to Paul. + </p> + <p> + “Why so, Mr. Heemskerk?” replied Paul politely. “Because I am a Dutchman. + I have the soul of an artist and the gentleness of a baby. I, Cornelius + Heemskerk, should be in the goot leetle country of Holland in a goot + leetle house, by the side of a goot leetle canal, painting beautiful blue + china, dishes, plates, cups, saucers, all most beautiful, and here I am + running through the woods of this vast America, carrying on my shoulder a + rifle that is longer than I am, hunting the red Indian and hunted by him. + Is it not most rediculous, Mynheer Paul?” + </p> + <p> + “I think you are here because you are a brave man, Mr. Heemskerk,” replied + Paul, “and wish to see punishment inflicted upon those who have committed + great crimes.” + </p> + <p> + “Not so! Not so!” replied the Dutchman with energy. “It is because I am + one big fool. I am not really a big enough man to be as big a fool as I + am, but so it is! so it is!” Shif'less Sol regarded him critically, and + then spoke gravely and with deliberation: “It ain't that, Mr. Heemskerk, + an' Paul ain't told quite all the truth, either. I've heard that the Dutch + was the most powerfullest fightin' leetle nation on the globe; that all + you had to do wuz to step on the toe uv a Dutchman's wooden shoe, an' all + the men, women, an' children in Holland would jump right on top o' you all + at once. Lookin' you up an' lookin' you down, an' sizin' you up, an' sizin + you down, all purty careful, an' examinin' the corners O' your eyes + oncommon close, an' also lookin' at the way you set your feet when you + walk, I'm concludin' that you just natcherally love a fight, an' that you + are lookin' fur one.” + </p> + <p> + But Cornelius Heemskerk sighed, and shook his head. + </p> + <p> + “It is flattery that you give me, and you are trying to make me brave when + I am not,” he said. “I only say once more that I ought to be in Holland + painting blue plates, and not here in the great woods holding on to my + scalp, first with one hand and then with the other.” + </p> + <p> + He sighed deeply, but Solomon Hyde, reader of the hearts of men, only + laughed. + </p> + <p> + Colonel Butler's force stopped about three o'clock for food and a little + rest, and the five, who had not slept since the night before, caught a few + winks. But in less than an hour they were up and away again. The five + riflemen were once more well in advance, and with them were Taylor and + Heemskerk, the Dutchman, grumbling over their speed, but revolving along, + nevertheless, with astonishing ease and without any sign of fatigue. They + discovered no indications of Indian scouts or trails, and as the village + now was not many miles away, it confirmed Henry in his belief that the + Iroquois, with their friends, the Wyandots, would not stay to give battle. + If Thayendanegea and Timmendiquas were prepared for a strong resistance, + the bullets of the skirmishers would already be whistling through the + woods. + </p> + <p> + The waning evening grew colder, twilight came, and the autumn leaves fell + fast before the rising wind. The promise of the night was dark, which was + not bad for their design, and once more the five-now the seven approached + Oghwaga. From the crest of the very same hill they looked down once more + upon the Indian houses. + </p> + <p> + “It is a great base for the Iroquois,” said Henry to Heemskerk, “and + whether the Indians have laid an ambush or not, Colonel Butler must + attack.” + </p> + <p> + “Ah,” said Heemskerk, silently moving his round body to a little higher + point for a better view, “now I feel in all its fullness the truth that I + should be back in Holland, painting blue plates.” + </p> + <p> + Nevertheless, Cornelius Heemskerk made a very accurate survey of the + Iroquois village, considering the distance and the brevity of the time, + and when the party went back to Colonel Butler to tell him the way was + open, he revolved along as swiftly as any of them. There were also many + serious thoughts in the back of his head. + </p> + <p> + At nine o'clock the little colonial force was within half a mile of + Oghwaga, and nothing had yet occurred to disclose whether the Iroquois + knew of their advance. Henry and his comrades, well in front, looked down + upon the town, but saw nothing. No light came from an Indian chimney, nor + did any dog howl. Just behind them were the troops in loose order, Colonel + Butler impatiently striking his booted leg with a switch, and William Gray + seeking to restrain his ardor, that he might set a good example to the + men. + </p> + <p> + “What do you think, Mr. Ware?” asked Colonel Butler. + </p> + <p> + “I think we ought to rush the town at once.” + </p> + <p> + “It is so!” exclaimed Heemskerk, forgetting all about painting blue + plates. + </p> + <p> + “The signal is the trumpet; you blow it, Captain Gray, and then we'll + charge.” + </p> + <p> + William Gray took the trumpet from one of the men and blew a long, + thrilling note. Before its last echo was ended, the little army rushed + upon the town. Three or four shots came from the houses, and the soldiers + fired a few at random in return, but that was all. Indian scouts had + brought warning of the white advance, and the great chiefs, gathering up + all the people who were in the village, had fled. A retreating warrior or + two had fired the shots, but when the white men entered this important + Iroquois stronghold they did not find a single human being. Timmendiquas, + the White Lightning of the Wyandots, was gone; Thayendanegea, the real + head of the Six Nations, had slipped away; and with them had vanished the + renegades. But they had gone in haste. All around them were the evidences. + The houses, built of wood, were scores in number, and many of them + contained furniture such as a prosperous white man of the border would buy + for himself. There were gardens and shade trees about these, and back of + them, barns, many of them filled with Indian corn. Farther on were + clusters of bark lodges, which had been inhabited by the less progressive + of the Iroquois. + </p> + <p> + Henry stood in the center of the town and looked at the houses misty in + the moonlight. The army had not yet made much noise, but he was beginning + to hear behind him the ominous word, “Wyoming,” repeated more than once. + Cornelius Heemskerk had stopped revolving, and, standing beside Henry, + wiped his perspiring, red face. + </p> + <p> + “Now that I am here, I think again of the blue plates of Holland, Mr. + Ware,” he said. “It is a dark and sanguinary time. The men whose brethren + were scalped or burned alive at Wyoming will not now spare the town of + those who did it. In this wilderness they give blow for blow, or perish.” + </p> + <p> + Henry knew that it was true, but he felt a certain sadness. His heart had + been inflamed against the Iroquois, he could never forget Wyoming or its + horrors; but in the destruction of an ancient town the long labor of man + perished, and it seemed waste. Doubtless a dozen generations of Iroquois + children had played here on the grass. He walked toward the northern end + of the village, and saw fields there from which recent corn had been + taken, but behind him the cry, “Wyoming!” was repeated louder and oftener + now. Then he saw men running here and there with torches, and presently + smoke and flame burst from the houses. He examined the fields and forest + for a little distance to see if any ambushed foe might still lie among + them, but all the while the flame and smoke behind him were rising higher. + </p> + <p> + Henry turned back and joined his comrades. Oghwaga was perishing. The + flames leaped from house to house, and then from lodge to lodge. There was + no need to use torches any more. The whole village was wrapped in a mass + of fire that grew and swelled until the flames rose above the forest, and + were visible in the clear night miles away. + </p> + <p> + So great was the heat that Colonel Butler and the soldiers and scouts were + compelled to withdraw to the edge of the forest. The wind rose and the + flames soared. Sparks flew in myriads, and ashes fell dustily on the dry + leaves of the trees. Bob Taylor, with his hands clenched tightly, muttered + under his breath, “Wyoming! Wyoming!” + </p> + <p> + “It is the Iroquois who suffer now,” said Heemskerk, as he revolved slowly + away from a heated point. + </p> + <p> + Crashes came presently as the houses fell in, and then the sparks would + leap higher and the flames roar louder. The barns, too, were falling down, + and the grain was destroyed. The grapevines were trampled under foot, and + the gardens were ruined. Oghwaga, a great central base of the Six Nations, + was vanishing forever. For four hundred years, ever since the days of + Hiawatha, the Iroquois had waxed in power. They had ruled over lands + larger than great empires. They had built up political and social systems + that are the wonder of students. They were invincible in war, because + every man had been trained from birth to be a warrior, and now they were + receiving their first great blow. + </p> + <p> + From a point far in the forest, miles away, Thayendanegea, Timmendiquas, + Hiokatoo, Sangerachte, “Indian” Butler, Walter Butler, Braxton Wyatt, a + low, heavybrowed Tory named Coleman, with whom Wyatt had become very + friendly, and about sixty Iroquois and twenty Tories were watching a tower + of light to the south that had just appeared above the trees. It was of an + intense, fiery color, and every Indian in that gloomy band knew that it + was Oghwaga, the great, the inviolate, the sacred, that was burning, and + that the men who were doing it were the white frontiersmen, who, his + red-coated allies had told him, would soon be swept forever from these + woods. And they were forced to stand and see it, not daring to attack so + strong and alert a force. + </p> + <p> + They sat there in the darkness among the trees, and watched the column of + fire grow and grow until it seemed to pierce the skies. Timmendiquas never + said a word. In his heart, Indian though he was, he felt that the Iroquois + had gone too far. In him was the spirit of the farseeing Hiawatha. He + could perceive that great cruelty always brought retaliation; but it was + not for him, almost an alien, to say these things to Thayendanegea, the + mighty war chief of the Mohawks and the living spirit of the Iroquois + nation. + </p> + <p> + Thayendanegea sat on the stump of a tree blown down by winter storms. His + arms were folded across his breast, and he looked steadily toward that red + threatening light off there in the south. Some such idea as that in the + mind of Timmendiquas may have been passing in his own. He was an uncommon + Indian, and he had had uncommon advantages. He had not believed that the + colonists could make head against so great a kingdom as England, aided by + the allied tribes, the Canadians, and the large body of Tories among their + own people. But he saw with his own eyes the famous Oghwaga of the + Iroquois going down under their torch. + </p> + <p> + “Tell me, Colonel John Butler,” he said bitterly, “where is your great + king now? Is his arm long enough to reach from London to save our town of + Oghwaga, which is perhaps as much to us as his great city of London is to + him?” + </p> + <p> + The thickset figure of “Indian” Butler moved, and his swart face flushed + as much as it could. + </p> + <p> + “You know as much about the king as I do, Joe Brant,” he replied. “We are + fighting here for your country as well as his, and you cannot say that + Johnson's Greens and Butler's Rangers and the British and Canadians have + not done their part.” + </p> + <p> + “It is true,” said Thayendanegea, “but it is true, also, that one must + fight with wisdom. Perhaps there was too much burning of living men at + Wyoming. The pain of the wounded bear makes him fight the harder, and it, + is because of Wyoming that Oghwaga yonder burns. Say, is it not so, + Colonel John Butler?” + </p> + <p> + “Indian” Butler made no reply, but sat, sullen and lowering. The Tory, + Coleman, whispered to Braxton Wyatt, but Timmendiquas was the only one who + spoke aloud. + </p> + <p> + “Thayendanegea,” he said, “I, and the Wyandots who are with me, have come + far. We expected to return long ago to the lands on the Ohio, but we were + with you in your village, and now, when Manitou has turned his face from + you for the time, we will not leave you. We stay and fight by your side.” + </p> + <p> + Thayendanegea stood up, and Timmendiquas stood up, also. + </p> + <p> + “You are a great chief, White Lightning of the Wyandots,” he said, “and + you and I are brothers. I shall be proud and happy to have such a mighty + leader fighting with me. We will have vengeance for this. The power of the + Iroquois is as great as ever.” + </p> + <p> + He raised himself to his full height, pointing to the fire, and the flames + of hate and resolve burned in his eyes. Old Hiokatoo, the most savage of + all the chiefs, shook his tomahawk, and a murmur passed through the group + of Indians. + </p> + <p> + Braxton Wyatt still talked in whispers to his new friend, Coleman, the + Tory, who was more to his liking than the morose and savage Walter Butler, + whom he somewhat feared. Wyatt was perhaps the least troubled of all those + present. Caring for himself only, the burning of Oghwaga caused him no + grief. He suffered neither from the misfortune of friend nor foe. He was + able to contemplate the glowing tower of light with curiosity only. + Braxton Wyatt knew that the Iroquois and their allies would attempt + revenge for the burning of Oghwaga, and he saw profit for himself in such + adventures. His horizon had broadened somewhat of late. The renegade, + Blackstaffe, had returned to rejoin Simon Girty, but he had found a new + friend in Coleman. He was coming now more into touch with the larger + forces in the East, nearer to the seat of the great war, and he hoped to + profit by it. + </p> + <p> + “This is a terrible blow to Brant,” Coleman whispered to him. “The + Iroquois have been able to ravage the whole frontier, while the rebels, + occupied with the king's troops, have not been able to send help to their + own. But they have managed to strike at last, as you see.” + </p> + <p> + “I do see,” said Wyatt, “and on the whole, Coleman, I'm not sorry. Perhaps + these chiefs won't be so haughty now, and they'll soon realize that they + need likely chaps such as you and me, eh, Coleman.” + </p> + <p> + “You're not far from the truth,” said Coleman, laughing a little, and + pleased at the penetration of his new friend. They did not talk further, + although the agreement between them was well established. Neither did the + Indian chiefs or the Tory leaders say any more. They watched the tower of + fire a long time, past midnight, until it reached its zenith and then + began to sink. They saw its crest go down behind the trees, and they saw + the luminous cloud in the south fade and go out entirely, leaving there + only the darkness that reined everywhere else. + </p> + <p> + Then the Indian and Tory leaders rose and silently marched northward. It + was nearly dawn when Henry and his comrades lay down for the rest that + they needed badly. They spread their blankets at the edge of the open, but + well back from the burned area, which was now one great mass of coals and + charred timbers, sending up little flame but much smoke. Many of the + troops were already asleep, but Henry, before lying down, begged William + Gray to keep a strict watch lest the Iroquois attack from ambush. He knew + that the rashness and confidence of the borderers, especially when drawn + together in masses, had often caused them great losses, and he was + resolved to prevent a recurrence at the present time if he could. He had + made these urgent requests of Gray, instead of Colonel Butler, because of + the latter's youth and willingness to take advice. + </p> + <p> + “I'll have the forest beat up continually all about the town,” he said. + “We must not have our triumph spoiled by any afterclap.” + </p> + <p> + Henry and his comrades, wrapped in their blankets, lay in a row almost at + the edge of the forest. The heat from the fire was still great, but it + would die down after a while, and the October air was nipping. Henry + usually fell asleep in a very few minutes, but this time, despite his long + exertions and lack of rest, he remained awake when his comrades were sound + asleep. Then he fell into a drowsy state, in which he saw the fire rising + in great black coils that united far above. It seemed to Henry, half + dreaming and forecasting the future, that the Indian spirit was passing in + the smoke. + </p> + <p> + When he fell asleep it was nearly daylight, and in three or four hours he + was up again, as the little army intended to march at once upon another + Indian town. The hours while he slept had passed in silence, and no + Indians had come near. William Gray had seen to that, and his best scout + had been one Cornelius Heemskerk, a short, stout man of Dutch birth. + </p> + <p> + “It was one long, long tramp for me, Mynheer Henry,” said Heemskerk, as he + revolved slowly up to the camp fire where Henry was eating his breakfast, + “and I am now very tired. It was like walking four or five times around + Holland, which is such a fine little country, with the canals and the + flowers along them, and no great, dark woods filled with the fierce + Iroquois.” + </p> + <p> + “Still, I've a notion, Mynheer Heemskerk, that you'd rather be here, and + perhaps before the day is over you will get some fighting hot enough to + please even you.” + </p> + <p> + Mynheer Heemskerk threw up his hands in dismay, but a half hour later he + was eagerly discussing with Henry the possibility of overtaking some large + band of retreating Iroquois. + </p> + <p> + Urged on by all the scouts and by those who had suffered at Wyoming, + Colonel Butler gathered his forces and marched swiftly that very morning + up the river against another Indian town, Cunahunta. Fortunately for him, + a band of riflemen and scouts unsurpassed in skill led the way, and saw to + it that the road was safe. In this band were the five, of course, and + after them Heemskerk, young Taylor, and several others. + </p> + <p> + “If the Iroquois do not get in our way, we'll strike Cunahunta before + night,” said Heemskerk, who knew the way. + </p> + <p> + “It seems to me that they will certainly try to save their towns,” said + Henry. “Surely Brant and the Tories will not let us strike so great a blow + without a fight.” + </p> + <p> + “Most of their warriors are elsewhere, Mynheer Henry,” said Heemskerk, “or + they would certainly give us a big battle. We've been lucky in the time of + our advance. As it is, I think we'll have something to do.” + </p> + <p> + It was now about noon, the noon of a beautiful October day of the North, + the air like life itself, the foliage burning red on the hills, the leaves + falling softly from the trees as the wind blew, but bringing with them no + hint of decay. None of the vanguard felt fatigue, but when they crossed a + low range of hills and saw before them a creek flowing down to the + Susquehanna, Henry, who was in the lead, stopped suddenly and dropped down + in the grass. The others, knowing without question the significance of the + action, also sank down. + </p> + <p> + “What is it, Henry?” asked Shif'less Sol. + </p> + <p> + “You see how thick the trees are on the other side of that bank. Look a + little to the left of a big oak, and you will see the feathers in the + headdress of an Iroquois. Farther on I think I can catch a glimpse of a + green coat, and if I am right that coat is worn by one of Johnson's Royal + Greens. It's an ambush, Sol, an ambush meant for us.” + </p> + <p> + “But it's not an ambush intended for our main force, Mynheer Henry,” said + Heemskerk, whose red face began to grow redder with the desire for action. + “I, too, see the feather of the Iroquois.” + </p> + <p> + “As good scouts and skirmishers it's our duty, then, to clear this force + out of the way, and not wait for the main body to come up, is it not?” + asked Henry, with a suggestive look at the Dutchman. + </p> + <p> + “What a goot head you have, Mynheer Henry!” exclaimed Heemskerk. “Of + course we will fight, and fight now!” + </p> + <p> + “How about them blue plates?” said Shif'less Sol softly. But Heemskerk did + not hear him. + </p> + <p> + They swiftly developed their plan of action. There could be no earthly + doubt of the fact that the Iroquois and some Tories were ambushed on the + far side of the creek. Possibly Thayendanegea himself, stung by the + burning of Oghwaga and the advance on Cunahunta, was there. But they were + sure that it was not a large band. + </p> + <p> + The party of Henry and Heemskerk numbered fourteen, but every one was a + veteran, full of courage, tenacity, and all the skill of the woods. They + had supreme confidence in their ability to beat the best of the Iroquois, + man for man, and they carried the very finest arms known to the time. + </p> + <p> + It was decided that four of the men should remain on the hill. The others, + including the five, Heemskerk, and Taylor, would make a circuit, cross the + creek a full mile above, and come down on the flank of the ambushing + party. Theirs would be the main attack, but it would be preceded by + sharpshooting from the four, intended to absorb the attention of the + Iroquois. The chosen ten slipped back down the hill, and as soon as they + were sheltered from any possible glimpse by the warriors, they rose and + ran rapidly westward. Before they had gone far they heard the crack of a + rifle shot, then another, then several from another point, as if in reply. + </p> + <p> + “It's our sharpshooters,” said Henry. “They've begun to disturb the + Iroquois, and they'll keep them busy.” + </p> + <p> + “Until we break in on their sport and keep them still busier,” exclaimed + Heemskerk, revolving swiftly through the bushes, his face blazing red. + </p> + <p> + It did not take long for such as they to go the mile or so that they + intended, and then they crossed the creek, wading in the water breast + high, but careful to keep their ammunition dry. Then they turned and + rapidly descended the stream on its northern bank. In a few minutes they + heard the sound of a rifle shot, and then of another as if replying. + </p> + <p> + “The Iroquois have been fooled,” exclaimed Heemskerk. “Our four good + riflemen have made them think that a great force is there, and they have + not dared to cross the creek themselves and make an attack.” + </p> + <p> + In a few minutes more, as they ran noiselessly through the forest, they + saw a little drifting smoke, and now and then the faint flash of rifles. + They were coming somewhere near to the Iroquois band, and they practiced + exceeding caution. Presently they caught sight of Indian faces, and now + and then one of Johnson's Greens or Butler's Rangers. They stopped and + held a council that lasted scarcely more than half a minute. They all + agreed there was but one thing to do, and that was to attack in the + Indian's own way-that is, by ambush and sharpshooting. + </p> + <p> + Henry fired the first shot, and an Iroquois, aiming at a foe on the other + side of the creek, fell. Heemskerk quickly followed with a shot as good, + and the surprised Iroquois turned to face this new foe. But they and the + Tories were a strong band, and they retreated only a little. Then they + stood firm, and the forest battle began. The Indians numbered not less + than thirty, and both Braxton Wyatt and Coleman were with them, but the + value of skill was here shown by the smaller party, the one that attacked. + The frontiersmen, trained to every trick and wile of the forest, and + marksmen such as the Indians were never able to become, continually + pressed in and drove the Iroquois from tree to tree. Once or twice the + warriors started a rush, but they were quickly driven back by + sharpshooting such as they had never faced before. They soon realized that + this was no band of border farmers, armed hastily for an emergency, but a + foe who knew everything that they knew, and more. + </p> + <p> + Braxton Wyatt and his friend Coleman fought with the Iroquois, and Wyatt + in particular was hot with rage. He suspected that the five who had + defeated him so often were among these marksmen, and there might be a + chance now to destroy them all. He crept to the side of the fierce old + Seneca chief, Hiokatoo, and suggested that a part of their band slip + around and enfold the enemy. + </p> + <p> + Old Hiokatoo, in the thick of battle now, presented his most terrifying + aspect. He was naked save the waist cloth, his great body was covered with + scars, and, as he bent a little forward, he held cocked and ready in his + hands a fine rifle that had been presented to him by his good friend, the + king. The Senecas, it may be repeated, had suffered terribly at the Battle + of the Oriskany in the preceding year, and throughout these years of + border were the most cruel of all the Iroquois. In this respect Hiokatoo + led all the Senecas, and now Braxton Wyatt used as he was to savage + scenes, was compelled to admit to himself that this was the most + terrifying human being whom he had ever beheld. He was old, but age in him + seemed merely to add to his strength and ferocity. The path of a deep cut, + healed long since, but which the paint even did not hide, lay across his + forehead. Others almost as deep adorned his right cheek, his chin, and his + neck. He was crouched much like a panther, with his rifle in his hands and + the ready tomahawk at his belt. But it was the extraordinary expression of + his eyes that made Braxton Wyatt shudder. He read there no mercy for + anything, not even for himself, Braxton Wyatt, if he should stand in the + way, and it was this last fact that brought the shudder. + </p> + <p> + Hiokatoo thought it a good plan. Twenty warriors, mostly Senecas and + Cayugas, were detailed to execute it at once, and they stole off toward + the right. Henry had suspected some such diversion, and, as he had been + joined now by the four men from the other side of the creek, he disposed + his little force to meet it. Both Shif'less Sol and Heemskerk had caught + sight of figures slipping away among the trees, and Henry craftily drew + back a little. While two or three men maintained the sharpshooting in the + front, he waited for the attack. It came in half an hour, the flanking + force making a savage and open rush, but the fire of the white riflemen + was so swift and deadly that they were driven back again. But they had + come very near, and a Tory rushed directly at young Taylor. The Tory, like + Taylor, had come from Wyoming, and he had been one of the most ruthless on + that terrible day. When they were less than a dozen feet apart they + recognized each other. Henry saw the look that passed between them, and, + although he held a loaded rifle in his hand, for some reason he did not + use it. The Tory fired a pistol at Taylor, but the bullet missed, and the + Wyoming youth, leaping forth, swung his unloaded rifle and brought the + stock down with all his force upon the head of his enemy. The man, + uttering a single sound, a sort of gasp, fell dead, and Taylor stood over + him, still trembling with rage. In an instant Henry seized him and dragged + him down, and then a Seneca bullet whistled where he had been. + </p> + <p> + “He was one of the worst at Wyoming-I saw him!” exclaimed young Taylor, + still trembling all over with passion. + </p> + <p> + “He'll never massacre anybody else. You've seen to that,” said Henry, and + in a minute or two Taylor was quiet. The sharpshooting continued, but here + as elsewhere, the Iroquois had the worst of it. Despite their numbers, + they could not pass nor flank that line of deadly marksmen who lay behind + trees almost in security, and who never missed. Another Tory and a chief, + also, were killed, and Braxton Wyatt was daunted. Nor did he feel any + better when old Hiokatoo crept to his side. + </p> + <p> + “We have failed here,” he said. “They shoot too well for us to rush them. + We have lost good men.” Hiokatoo frowned, and the scars on his face stood + out in livid red lines. + </p> + <p> + “It is so,” he said. “These who fight us now are of their best, and while + we fight, the army that destroyed Oghwaga is coming up. Come, we will go.” + </p> + <p> + The little white band soon saw that the Indians were gone from their + front. They scouted some distance, and, finding no enemy, hurried back to + Colonel Butler. The troops were pushed forward, and before night they + reached Cunahunta, which they burned also. Some farther advance was made + into the Indian country, and more destruction was done, but now the winter + was approaching, and many of the men insisted upon returning home to + protect their families. Others were to rejoin the main Revolutionary army, + and the Iroquois campaign was to stop for the time. The first blow had + been struck, and it was a hard one, but the second blow and third and + fourth and more, which the five knew were so badly needed, must wait. + </p> + <p> + Henry and his comrades were deeply disappointed. They had hoped to go far + into the Iroquois country, to break the power of the Six Nations, to hunt + down the Butlers and the Johnsons and Brant himself, but they could not + wholly blame their commander. The rear guard, or, rather, the forest guard + of the Revolution, was a slender and small force indeed. + </p> + <p> + Henry and his comrades said farewell to Colonel Butler with much personal + regret, and also to the gallant troops, some of whom were Morgan's + riflemen from Virginia. The farewells to William Gray, Bob Taylor, and + Cornelius Heemskerk were more intimate. + </p> + <p> + “I think we'll see more of one another in other campaigns,” said Gray. + </p> + <p> + “We'll be on the battle line, side by side, once more,” said Taylor, “and + we'll strike another blow for Wyoming.” + </p> + <p> + “I foresee,” said Cornelius Heemskerk, “that I, a peaceful man, who ought + to be painting blue plates in Holland, will be drawn into danger in the + great, dark wilderness again, and that you will be there with me, Mynheer + Henry, Mynheer Paul, Mynheer the Wise Solomon, Mynheer the Silent Tom, and + Mynheer the Very Long James. I see it clearly. I, a man of peace, am + always being pushed in to war.” + </p> + <p> + “We hope it will come true,” said the five together. + </p> + <p> + “Do you go back to Kentucky?” asked William Gray. + </p> + <p> + “No,” replied Henry, speaking for them all, “we have entered upon this + task here, and we are going to stay in it until it is finished.” + </p> + <p> + “It is dangerous, the most dangerous thing in the world,” said Heemskerk. + “I still have my foreknowledge that I shall stand by your side in some + great battle to come, but the first thing I shall do when I see you again, + my friends, is to look around at you, one, two, three, four, five, and see + if you have upon your heads the hair which is now so rich, thick, and + flowing.” + </p> + <p> + “Never fear, my friend,” said Henry, “we have fought with the warriors all + the way from the Susquehanna to New Orleans and not one of us has lost a + single lock of hair.” + </p> + <p> + “It is one Dutchman's hope that it will always be so,” said Heemskerk, and + then he revolved rapidly away lest they see his face express emotion. + </p> + <p> + The five received great supplies of powder and bullets from Colonel + Butler, and then they parted in the forest. Many of the soldiers looked + back and saw the five tall figures in a line, leaning upon the muzzles of + their long-barreled Kentucky rifles, and regarding them in silence. It + seemed to the soldiers that they had left behind them the true sons of the + wilderness, who, in spite of all dangers, would be there to welcome them + when they returned. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0017" id="link2HCH0017"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XVII. THE DESERTED CABIN + </h2> + <p> + When the last soldier had disappeared among the trees, Henry turned to the + others. “Well, boys,” he asked, “what are you thinking about?” + </p> + <p> + “I?” asked Paul. “I'm thinking about a certain place I know, a sort of + alcove or hole in a cliff above a lake.” + </p> + <p> + “An' me?” said Shif'less Sol. “I'm thinkin' how fur that alcove runs back, + an' how it could be fitted up with furs an' made warm fur the winter.” + </p> + <p> + “Me?” said Tom Ross. “I'm thinkin' what a snug place that alcove would be + when the snow an' hail were drivin' down the creek in front of you.” + </p> + <p> + “An' ez fur me,” said Long Jim Hart, “I wuz thinkin' I could run a sort uv + flue from the back part uv that alcove out through the front an' let the + smoke pass out. I could cook all right. It wouldn't be ez good a place fur + cookin' ez the one we hed that time we spent the winter on the island in + the lake, but 'twould serve.” + </p> + <p> + “It's strange,” said Henry, “but I've been thinking of all the things that + all four of you have been thinking about, and, since we are agreed, we are + bound to go straight to 'The Alcove' and pass the winter there.” + </p> + <p> + Without another word he led the way, and the others followed. It was + apparent to everyone that they must soon find a winter base, because the + cold had increased greatly in the last few days. The last leaves had + fallen from the trees, and a searching wind howled among the bare + branches. Better shelter than blankets would soon be needed. + </p> + <p> + On their way they passed Oghwaga, a mass of blackened ruins, among which + wolves howled, the same spectacle that Wyoming now afforded, although + Oghwaga had not been stained by blood. + </p> + <p> + It was a long journey to “The Alcove,” but they did not hurry, seeing no + need of it, although they were warned of the wisdom of their decision by + the fact that the cold was increasing. The country in which the lake was + situated lay high, and, as all of them were quite sure that the cold was + going to be great there, they thought it wise to make preparations against + it, which they discussed as they walked in, leisurely fashion through the + woods. They spoke, also, of greater things. All felt that they had been + drawn into a mightier current than any in which they had swam before. They + fully appreciated the importance to the Revolution of this great rearguard + struggle, and at present they did not have the remotest idea of returning + to Kentucky under any circumstances. + </p> + <p> + “We've got to fight it out with Braxton Wyatt and the Iroquois,” said + Henry. “I've heard that Braxton is organizing a band of Tories of his own, + and that he is likely to be as dangerous as either of the Butlers.” + </p> + <p> + “Some day we'll end him for good an' all,” said Shif'less Sol. + </p> + <p> + It was four or five days before they reached their alcove, and now all the + forest was bare and apparently lifeless. They came down the creek, and + found their boat unharmed and untouched still among the foliage at the + base of the cliff. + </p> + <p> + “That's one thing safe,” said Long Jim, “an' I guess we'll find 'The + Alcove' all right, too.” + </p> + <p> + “Unless a wild animal has taken up its abode there,” said Paul. + </p> + <p> + “'Tain't likely,” replied Long Jim. “We've left the human smell thar, an' + even after all this time it's likely to drive away any prowlin' bear or + panther that pokes his nose in.” + </p> + <p> + Long Jim was quite right. Their snug nest, like that of a squirrel in the + side of a tree, had not been disturbed. The skins which they had rolled up + tightly and placed on the higher shelves of stone were untouched, and + several days' hunting increased the supply. The hunting was singularly + easy, and, although the five did not know it, the quantity of game was + much greater in that region than it had been for years. It had been swept + of human beings by the Iroquois and Tory hordes, and deer, bear, and + panther seemed to know instinctively that the woods were once more safe + for them. + </p> + <p> + In their hunting they came upon the ruins of charred houses, and more than + once they saw something among the coals that caused them to turn away with + a shudder. At every place where man had made a little opening the + wilderness was quickly reclaiming its own again. Next year the grass and + the foliage would cover up the coals and the hideous relics that lay among + them. + </p> + <p> + They jerked great quantities of venison on the trees on the cliff side, + and stored it in “The Alcove.” They also cured some bear meat, and, having + added a further lining of skins, they felt prepared for winter. They had + also added to the comfort of the place. They had taken the precaution of + bringing with them two axes, and with the heads of these they smoothed out + more of the rough places on the floor and sides of “The Alcove.” They + thought it likely, too, that they would need the axes in other ways later + on. + </p> + <p> + Only once during these arrangements did they pass the trail of Indians, + and that was made by a party of about twenty, at least ten miles from “The + Alcove.” They seemed to be traveling north, and the five made no + investigations. Somewhat later they met a white runner in the forest, and + he told them of the terrible massacre of Cherry Valley. Walter Butler, + emulating his father's exploit at Wyoming, had come down with a mixed + horde of Iroquois, Tories, British, and Canadians. He had not been wholly + successful, but he had slaughtered half a hundred women and children, and + was now returning northward with prisoners. Some said, according to the + runner, that Thayendanegea had led the Indians on this occasion, but, as + the five learned later, he had not come up until the massacre was over. + The runner added another piece of information that interested them deeply. + Butler had been accompanied to Cherry Valley by a young Tory or renegade + named Wyatt, who had distinguished himself by cunning and cruelty. It was + said that Wyatt had built up for himself a semi-independent command, and + was becoming a great scourge. + </p> + <p> + “That's our Braxton,” said Henry. “He is rising to his opportunities. He + is likely to become fully the equal of Walter Butler.” + </p> + <p> + But they could do nothing at present to find Wyatt, and they went somewhat + sadly back to “The Alcove.” They had learned also from the runner that + Wyatt had a lieutenant, a Tory named Coleman, and this fact increased + their belief that Wyatt was undertaking to operate on a large scale. + </p> + <p> + “We may get a chance at him anyhow,” said Henry. “He and his band may go + too far away from the main body of the Indians and Tories, and in that + case we can strike a blow if we are watchful.” + </p> + <p> + Every one of the five, although none of them knew it, received an + additional impulse from this news about Braxton Wyatt. He had grown up + with them. Loyalty to the king had nothing to do with his becoming a + renegade or a Tory; he could not plead lost lands or exile for taking part + in such massacres as Wyoming or Cherry Valley, but, long since an ally of + the Indians, he was now at the head of a Tory band that murdered and + burned from sheer pleasure. + </p> + <p> + “Some day we'll get him, as shore as the sun rises an' sets,” said + Shif'less Sol, repeating Henry's prediction. + </p> + <p> + But for the present they “holed up,” and now their foresight was + justified. To such as they, used to the hardships of forest life, “The + Alcove” was a cheery nest. From its door they watched the wild fowl + streaming south, pigeons, ducks, and others outlined against the dark, + wintry skies. So numerous were these flocks that there was scarcely a time + when they did not see one passing toward the warm South. + </p> + <p> + Shif'less Sol and Paul sat together watching a great flock of wild geese, + arrow shaped, and flying at almost incredible speed. A few faint honks + came to them, and then the geese grew misty on the horizon. Shif'less Sol + followed them with serious eyes. + </p> + <p> + “Do you ever think, Paul,” he said, “that we human bein's ain't so mighty + pow'ful ez we think we are. We kin walk on the groun', an' by hard + learnin' an' hard work we kin paddle through the water a little. But jest + look at them geese flyin' a mile high, right over everything, rivers, + forests any mountains, makin' a hundred miles an hour, almost without + flappin' a wing. Then they kin come down on the water an' float fur hours + without bein' tired, an' they kin waddle along on the groun', too. Did you + ever hear of any men who had so many 'complishments? Why, Paul, s'pose you + an' me could grow wings all at once, an' go through the air a mile a + minute fur a month an' never git tired.” + </p> + <p> + “We'd certainly see some great sights,” said Paul, “but do you know, Sol, + what would be the first thing I'd do if I had the gift of tireless wings?” + </p> + <p> + “Fly off to them other continents I've heard you tell about.” + </p> + <p> + “No, I'd swoop along over the forests up here until I picked out all the + camps of the Indians and Tories. I'd pick out the Butlers and Braxton + Wyatt and Coleman, and see what mischief they were planning. Then I'd fly + away to the East and look down at all the armies, ours in buff and blue, + and the British redcoats. I'd look into the face of our great + commander-in-chief. Then I'd fly away back into the West and South, and + I'd hover over Wareville. I'd see our own people, every last little one of + them. They might take a shot at me, not knowing who I was, but I'd be so + high up in the air no bullet could reach me. Then I'd come soaring back + here to you fellows.” + </p> + <p> + “That would shorely be a grand trip, Paul,” said Shif'less Sol, “an' I + wouldn't mind takin' it in myself. But fur the present we'd better busy + our minds with the warnin's the wild fowl are givin' us, though we're well + fixed fur a house already. It's cu'rus what good homes a handy man kin + find in the wilderness.” + </p> + <p> + The predictions of the wild fowl were true. A few days later heavy clouds + rolled up in the southwest, and the five watched them, knowing what they + would bring them. They spread to the zenith and then to the other horizon, + clothing the whole circle of the earth. The great flakes began to drop + down, slowly at first, then faster. Soon all the trees were covered with + white, and everything else, too, except the dark surface of the lake, + which received the flakes into its bosom as they fell. + </p> + <p> + It snowed all that day and most of the next, until it lay about two feet + on the ground. After that it turned intensely cold, the surface of the + snow froze, and ice, nearly a foot thick, covered the lake. It was not + possible to travel under such circumstances without artificial help, and + now Tom Ross, who had once hunted in the far North, came to their help. He + showed them how to make snowshoes, and, although all learned to use them, + Henry, with his great strength and peculiar skill, became by far the most + expert. + </p> + <p> + As the snow with its frozen surface lay on the ground for weeks, Henry + took many long journeys on the snowshoes. Sometimes be hunted, but oftener + his role was that of scout. He cautioned his friends that he might be + out-three or four days at a time, and that they need take no alarm about + him unless his absence became extremely long. The winter deepened, the + snow melted, and another and greater storm came, freezing the surface, + again making the snowshoes necessary. Henry decided now to take a scout + alone to the northward, and, as the others bad long since grown into the + habit of accepting his decisions almost without question, he started at + once. He was well equipped with his rifle, double barreled pistol, + hatchet, and knife, and he carried in addition a heavy blanket and some + jerked venison. He put on his snowshoes at the foot of the cliff, waved a + farewell to the four heads thrust from “The Alcove” above, and struck out + on the smooth, icy surface of the creek. From this he presently passed + into the woods, and for a long time pursued a course almost due north. + </p> + <p> + It was no vague theory that had drawn Henry forth. In one of his + journeyings be had met a hunter who told him of a band of Tories and + Indians encamped toward the north, and he had an idea that it was the + party led by Braxton Wyatt. Now he meant to see. + </p> + <p> + His information was very indefinite, and he began to discover signs much + earlier than he had expected. Before the end of the first day he saw the + traces of other snowshoe runners on the icy snow, and once he came to a + place where a deer had been slain and dressed. Then he came to another + where the snow had been hollowed out under some pines to make a sleeping + place for several men. Clearly he was in the land of the enemy again, and + a large and hostile camp might be somewhere near. + </p> + <p> + Henry felt a thrill of joy when he saw these indications. All the + primitive instincts leaped up within him. A child of the forest and of + elemental conditions, the warlike instinct was strong within him. He was + tired of hunting wild animals, and now there was promise of a' more + dangerous foe. For the purposes that he had in view he was glad that he + was alone. The wintry forest, with its two feet of snow covered with ice, + contained no terrors for him. He moved on his snowshoes almost like a + skater, and with all the dexterity of an Indian of the far North, who is + practically born on such shoes. + </p> + <p> + As he stood upon the brow of a little hill, elevated upon his snowshoes, + he was, indeed, a wonderful figure. The added height and the white glare + from the ice made him tower like a great giant. He was clad completely in + soft, warm deerskin, his hands were gloved in the same material, and the + fur cap was drawn tightly about his head and ears. The slender-barreled + rifle lay across his shoulder, and the blanket and deer meat made a light + package on his back. Only his face was uncovered, and that was rosy with + the sharp but bracing cold. But the resolute blue eyes seemed to have + grown more resolute in the last six months, and the firm jaw was firmer + than ever. + </p> + <p> + It was a steely blue sky, clear, hard, and cold, fitted to the earth of + snow and ice that it inclosed. His eyes traveled the circle of the horizon + three times, and at the end of the third circle he made out a dim, dark + thread against that sheet of blue steel. It was the light of a camp fire, + and that camp fire must belong to an enemy. It was not likely that anybody + else would be sending forth such a signal in this wintry wilderness. + </p> + <p> + Henry judged that the fire was several miles away, and apparently in a + small valley hemmed in by hills of moderate height. He made up his mind + that the band of Braxton Wyatt was there, and he intended to make a + thorough scout about it. He advanced until the smoke line became much + thicker and broader, and then he stopped in the densest clump of bushes + that he could find. He meant to remain there until darkness came, because, + with all foliage gone from the forest, it would be impossible to examine + the hostile camp by day. The bushes, despite the lack of leaves, were so + dense that they hid him well, and, breaking through the crust of ice, he + dug a hole. Then, having taken off his snowshoes and wrapped his blanket + about his body, he thrust himself into the hole exactly like a rabbit in + its burrow. He laid his shoes on the crust of ice beside him. Of course, + if found there by a large party of warriors on snowshoes he would have no + chance to flee, but he was willing to take what seemed to him a small + risk. The dark would not be long in coming, and it was snug and warm in + the hole. As he sat, his head rose just above the surrounding ice, but his + rifle barrel rose much higher. He ate a little venison for supper, and the + weariness in the ankles that comes from long traveling on snowshoes + disappeared. + </p> + <p> + He could not see outside the bushes, but he listened with those uncommonly + keen ears of his. No sound at all came. There was not even a wind to + rustle the bare boughs. The sun hung a huge red globe in the west, and all + that side of the earth was tinged with a red glare, wintry and cold + despite its redness. Then, as the earth turned, the sun was lost behind + it, and the cold dark came. + </p> + <p> + Henry found it so comfortable in his burrow that all his muscles were + soothed, and he grew sleepy. It would have been very pleasant to doze + there, but he brought himself round with an effort of the will, and became + as wide awake as ever. He was eager to be off on his expedition, but he + knew how much depended on waiting, and he waited. One hour, two hours, + three hours, four hours, still and dark, passed in the forest before he + roused himself from his covert. Then, warm, strong, and tempered like + steel for his purpose, he put on his snowshoes, and advanced toward the + point from which the column of smoke had risen. + </p> + <p> + He had never been more cautious and wary than he was now. He was a + formidable figure in the darkness, crouched forward, and moving like some + spirit of the wilderness, half walking, half gliding. + </p> + <p> + Although the night had come out rather clear, with many cold stars + twinkling in the blue, the line of smoke was no longer visible. But Henry + did not expect it to be, nor did he need it. He had marked its base too + clearly in his mind to make any mistake, and he advanced with certainty. + He came presently into an open space, and he stopped with amazement. + Around him were the stumps of a clearing made recently, and near him were + some yards of rough rail fence. + </p> + <p> + He crouched against the fence, and saw on the far side of the clearing the + dim outlines of several buildings, from the chimneys of two of which smoke + was rising. It was his first thought that he had come upon a little + settlement still held by daring borderers, but second thought told him + that it was impossible. Another and more comprehensive look showed many + signs of ruin. He saw remains of several burned houses, but clothing all + was the atmosphere of desolation and decay that tells when a place is + abandoned. The two threads of smoke did not alter this impression. + </p> + <p> + Henry divined it all. The builders of this tiny village in the wilderness + bad been massacred or driven away. A part of the houses had been + destroyed, some were left standing, and now there were visitors. He + advanced without noise, keeping behind the rail fence, and approaching one + of the houses from the chimneys of which the smoke came. Here be crouched + a long time, looking and listening attentively; but it seemed that the + visitors had no fears. Why should they, when there was nothing that they + need fear in this frozen wilderness? + </p> + <p> + Henry stole a little nearer. It had been a snug, trim little settlement. + Perhaps twenty-five or thirty people had lived there, literally hewing a + home out of the forest. His heart throbbed with a fierce hatred and, anger + against those who had spoiled all this, and his gloved finger crept to the + hammer of his rifle. + </p> + <p> + The night was intensely cold. The mercury was far below zero, and a wind + that had begun to rise cut like the edge of a knife. Even the wariest of + Indians in such desolate weather might fail to keep a watch. But Henry did + not suffer. The fur cap was drawn farther over chin and ears, and the + buckskin gloves kept his fingers warm and flexible. Besides, his blood was + uncommonly hot in his veins. + </p> + <p> + His comprehensive eye told him that, while some of the buildings had not + been destroyed, they were so ravaged and damaged that they could never be + used again, save as a passing shelter, just as they were being used now. + He slid cautiously about the desolate place. He crossed a brook, frozen + almost solidly in its bed, and he saw two or three large mounds that had + been haystacks, now covered with snow. + </p> + <p> + Then he slid without noise back to the nearest of the houses from which + the smoke came. It was rather more pretentious than the others, built of + planks instead of logs, and with shingles for a roof. The remains of a + small portico formed the approach to the front door. Henry supposed that + the house had been set on fire and that perhaps a heavy rain had saved a + part of it. + </p> + <p> + A bar of light falling across the snow attracted his attention. He knew + that it was the glow of a fire within coming through a window. A faint + sound of voices reached his ears, and he moved forward slowly to the + window. It was an oaken shutter originally fastened with a leather strap, + but the strap was gone, and now some one had tied it, though not tightly, + with a deer tendon. The crack between shutter and wall was at least three + inches, and Henry could see within very well. + </p> + <p> + He pressed his side tightly to the wall and put his eyes to the crevice. + What he saw within did not still any of those primitive feelings that had + risen so strongly in his breast. + </p> + <p> + A great fire had been built in the log fireplace, but it was burning + somewhat low now, having reached that mellow period of least crackling and + greatest heat. The huge bed of coals threw a mass of varied and glowing + colors across the floor. Large holes had been burned in the side of the + room by the original fire, but Indian blankets had been fastened tightly + over them. + </p> + <p> + In front of the fire sat Braxton Wyatt in a Loyalist uniform, a + three-cornered hat cocked proudly on his head, and a small sword by his + side. He had grown heavier, and Henry saw that the face had increased much + in coarseness and cruelty. It had also increased in satisfaction. He was a + great man now, as he saw great men, and both face and figure radiated + gratification and pride as he lolled before the fire. At the other corner, + sitting upon the floor and also in a Loyalist uniform, was his lieutenant, + Levi Coleman, older, heavier, and with a short, uncommonly muscular + figure. His face was dark and cruel, with small eyes set close together. A + half dozen other white men and more than a dozen Indians were in the room. + All these lay upon their blankets on the floor, because all the furniture + had been destroyed. Yet they had eaten, and they lay there content in the + soothing glow of the fire, like animals that had fed well. Henry was so + near that he could hear every word anyone spoke. + </p> + <p> + “It was well that the Indians led us to this place, eh, Levi?” said Wyatt. + </p> + <p> + “I'm glad the fire spared a part of it,” said Coleman. “Looks as if it was + done just for us, to give us a shelter some cold winter night when we come + along. I guess the Iroquois Aieroski is watching over us.” + </p> + <p> + Wyatt laughed. + </p> + <p> + “You're a man that I like, Levi,” he said. “You can see to the inside of + things. It would be a good idea to use this place as a base and shelter, + and make a raid on some of the settlements east of the hills, eh, Levi?” + </p> + <p> + “It could be done,” said Coleman. “But just listen to that wind, will you! + On a night like this it must cut like a saber's edge. Even our Iroquois + are glad to be under a roof.” + </p> + <p> + Henry still gazed in at the crack with eyes that were lighted up by an + angry fire. So here was more talk of destruction and slaughter! His gaze + alighted upon an Indian who sat in a corner engaged upon a task. Henry + looked more closely, and saw that he was stretching a blonde-haired scalp + over a small hoop. A shudder shook his whole frame. Only those who lived + amid such scenes could understand the intensity of his feelings. He felt, + too, a bitter sense of injustice. The doers of these deeds were here in + warmth and comfort, while the innocent were dead or fugitives. He turned + away from the window, stepping gently upon the snowshoes. He inferred that + the remainder of Wyatt's band were quartered in the other house from which + he had seen the smoke rising. It was about twenty rods away, but he did + not examine it, because a great idea had been born suddenly in his brain. + The attempt to fulfill the idea would be accompanied by extreme danger, + but he did not hesitate a moment. He stole gently to one of the + half-fallen outhouses and went inside. Here he found what he wanted, a + large pine shelf that had been sheltered from rain and that was perfectly + dry. He scraped off a large quantity of the dry pine until it formed + almost a dust, and he did not cease until he had filled his cap with it. + Then he cut off large splinters, until he had accumulated a great number, + and after that he gathered smaller pieces of half-burned pine. + </p> + <p> + He was fully two hours doing this work, and the night advanced far, but he + never faltered. His head was bare, but he was protected from the wind by a + fragment of the outhouse wall. Every two or three minutes he stopped and + listened for the sound of a creaking, sliding footstep on the snow, but, + never hearing any, he always resumed his work with the same concentration. + All the while the wind rose and moaned through the ruins of the little + village. When Henry chanced to raise his head above the sheltering wall, + it was like the slash of a knife across his cheek. + </p> + <p> + Finally he took half of the pine dust in his cap and a lot of the + splinters under his arm, and stole back to the house from which the light + had shone. He looked again through the crevice at the window. The light + had died down much more, and both Wyatt and Coleman were asleep on the + floor. But several of the Iroquois were awake, although they sat as silent + and motionless as stones against the wall. + </p> + <p> + Henry moved from the window and selected a sheltered spot beside the plank + wall. There he put the pine dust in a little heap on the snow and covered + it over with pine splinters, on top of which he put larger pieces of pine. + Then he went back for the remainder of the pine dust, and built a similar + pyramid against a sheltered side of the second house. + </p> + <p> + The most delicate part of his task had now come, one that good fortune + only could aid him in achieving, but the brave youth, his heart aflame + with righteous anger against those inside, still pursued the work. His + heart throbbed, but hand and eye were steady. + </p> + <p> + Now came the kindly stroke of fortune for which he had hoped. The wind + rose much higher and roared harder against the house. It would prevent the + Iroquois within, keen of ear as they were, from hearing a light sound + without. Then he drew forth his flint and steel and struck them together + with a hand so strong and swift that sparks quickly leaped forth and set + fire to the pine tinder. Henry paused only long enough to see the flame + spread to the splinters, and then he ran rapidly to the other house, where + the task was repeated-he intended that his job should be thorough. + </p> + <p> + Pursuing this resolve to make his task complete, he came back to the first + house and looked at his fire. It had already spread to the larger pieces + of pine, and it could not go out now. The sound made by the flames blended + exactly with the roaring of the wind, and another minute or two might pass + before the Iroquois detected it. + </p> + <p> + Now his heart throbbed again, and exultation was mingled with his anger. + By the time the Iroquois were aroused to the danger the flames would be so + high that the wind would reach them. Then no one could put them out. + </p> + <p> + It might have been safer for him to flee deep into the forest at once, but + that lingering desire to make his task complete and, also, the wish to see + the result kept him from doing it. He merely walked across the open space + and stood behind a tree at the edge of the forest. + </p> + <p> + Braxton Wyatt and his Tories and Iroquois were very warm, very snug, in + the shelter of the old house with the great bed of coals before them. They + may even have been dreaming peaceful and beautiful dreams, when suddenly + an Iroquois sprang to his feet and uttered a cry that awoke all the rest. + </p> + <p> + “I smell smoke!” he exclaimed in his tongue, “and there is fire, too! I + hear it crackle outside!” + </p> + <p> + Braxton Wyatt ran to the window and jerked it open. Flame and smoke blew + in his face. He uttered an angry cry, and snatched at the pistol in his + belt. + </p> + <p> + “The whole side of the house is on fire!” he exclaimed. “Whose neglect has + done this?” + </p> + <p> + Coleman, shrewd and observing, was at his elbow. + </p> + <p> + “The fire was set on the outside,” he said. “It was no carelessness of our + men. Some enemy has done this!” + </p> + <p> + “It is true!” exclaimed Wyatt furiously. “Out, everybody! The house burns + fast!” + </p> + <p> + There was a rush for the door. Already ashes and cinders were falling + about their heads. Flames leaped high, were caught by the roaring winds, + and roared with them. The shell of the house would soon be gone, and when + Tories and Iroquois were outside they saw the remainder of their band + pouring forth from the other house, which was also in flames. + </p> + <p> + No means of theirs could stop so great a fire, and they stood in a sort of + stupefaction, watching it as it was fanned to greatest heights by the + wind. + </p> + <p> + All the remaining outbuildings caught, also, and in a few moments nothing + whatever would be left of the tiny village. Braxton Wyatt and his band + must lie in the icy wilderness, and they could never use this place as a + basis for attack upon settlements. + </p> + <p> + “How under the sun could it have happened?” exclaimed Wyatt. + </p> + <p> + “It didn't happen. It was done,” said Coleman. “Somebody set these houses + on fire while we slept within. Hark to that!” + </p> + <p> + An Iroquois some distance from the houses was bending over the snow where + it was not yet melted by the heat. He saw there the track of snowshoes, + and suddenly, looking toward the forest, whither they led, he saw a dark + figure flit away among the trees. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0018" id="link2HCH0018"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XVIII. HENRY'S SLIDE + </h2> + <p> + Henry Ware, lingering at the edge of the clearing, his body hidden behind + one of the great tree trunks, had been watching the scene with a + fascinated interest that would not let him go. He knew that his work there + was done already. Everything would be utterly destroyed by the flames + which, driven by the wind, leaped from one half-ruined building to + another. Braxton Wyatt and his band would have enough to do sheltering + themselves from the fierce winter, and the settlements could rest for a + while at least. Undeniably he felt exultation as he witnessed the + destructive work of his hand. The border, with its constant struggle + for-life and terrible deeds, bred fierce passions. + </p> + <p> + In truth, although he did not know it himself, he stayed there to please + his eye and heart. A new pulse beat triumphantly every time a timber, + burned through, fell in, or a crash came from a falling roof. He laughed + inwardly as the flames disclosed the dismay on the faces of the Iroquois + and Tories, and it gave him deep satisfaction to see Braxton Wyatt, his + gaudy little sword at his thigh, stalking about helpless. It was while he + was looking, absorbed in such feelings, that the warrior of the alert eye + saw him and gave the warning shout. + </p> + <p> + Henry turned in an instant, and darted away among the trees, half running, + half sliding over the smooth, icy covering of the snow. After him came + warriors and some Tories who had put on their snowshoes preparatory to the + search through the forest for shelter. Several bullets were fired, but he + was too far away for a good aim. He heard one go zip against a tree, and + another cut the surface of the ice near him, but none touched him, and he + sped easily on his snowshoes through the frozen forest. But Henry was + fully aware of one thing that constituted his greatest danger. Many of + these Iroquois had been trained all their lives to snowshoes, while he, + however powerful and agile, was comparatively a beginner. He glanced back + again and saw their dusky figures running among the trees, but they did + not seem to be gaining. If one should draw too near, there was his rifle, + and no man, white or red, in the northern or southern forests, could use + it better. But for the present it was not needed. He pressed it closely, + almost lovingly, to his side, this best friend of the scout and + frontiersman. + </p> + <p> + He had chosen his course at the first leap. It was southward, toward the + lake, and he did not make the mistake of diverging from his line, knowing + that some part of the wide half circle of his pursuers would profit by it. + </p> + <p> + Henry felt a great upward surge. He had been the victor in what he meant + to achieve, and he was sure that he would escape. The cold wind, whistling + by, whipped his blood and added new strength to his great muscles. His + ankles were not chafed or sore, and he sped forward on the snowshoes, + straight and true. Whenever he came to a hill the pursuers would gain as + he went up it, but when he went down the other side it was he who gained. + He passed brooks, creeks, and once a small river, but they were frozen + over, many inches deep, and he did not notice them. Again it was a lake a + mile wide, but the smooth surface there merely increased his speed. Always + he kept a wary look ahead for thickets through which he could not pass + easily, and once he sent back a shout of defiance, which the Iroquois + answered with a yell of anger. + </p> + <p> + He was fully aware that any accident to his snowshoes would prove fatal, + the slipping of the thongs on his ankles or the breaking of a runner would + end his flight, and in a long chase such an accident might happen. It + might happen, too, to one or more of the Iroquois, but plenty of them + would be left. Yet Henry had supreme confidence in his snowshoes. He had + made them himself, he had seen that every part was good, and every thong + had been fastened with care. + </p> + <p> + The wind which bad been roaring so loudly at the time of the fire sank to + nothing. The leafless trees stood up, the branches unmoving. The forest + was bare and deserted. All the animals, big and little, had gone into + their lairs. Nobody witnessed the great pursuit save pursuers and pursued. + Henry kept his direction clear in his mind, and allowed the Iroquois to + take no advantage of a curve save once. Then he came to a thicket so large + that he was compelled to make a considerable circle to pass it. He turned + to the right, hence the Indians on the right gained, and they sent up a + yell of delight. He replied defiantly and increased his speed. + </p> + <p> + But one of the Indians, a flying Mohawk, had come dangerously near-near + enough, in fact, to fire a bullet that did not miss the fugitive much. It + aroused Henry's anger. He took it as an indignity rather than a danger, + and he resolved to avenge it. So far as firing was concerned, he was at a + disadvantage. He must stop and turn around for his shot, while the + Iroquois, without even checking speed, could fire straight at the flying + target, ahead. + </p> + <p> + Nevertheless, he took the chance. He turned deftly on the snowshoes, fired + as quick as lightning at the swift Mohawk, saw him fall, then Whirled and + resumed his flight. He had lost ground, but he had inspired respect. A + single man could not afford to come too near to a marksman so deadly, and + the three or four who led dropped back with the main body. + </p> + <p> + Now Henry made his greatest effort. He wished to leave the foe far behind, + to shake off his pursuit entirely. He bounded over the ice and snow with + great leaps, and began to gain. Yet he felt at last the effects of so + strenuous a flight. His breath became shorter; despite the intense cold, + perspiration stood upon his face, and the straps that fastened the + snowshoes were chafing his ankles. An end must come even to such strength + as his. Another backward look, and he saw that the foe was sinking into + the darkness. If he could only increase his speed again, he might leave + the Iroquois now. He made a new call upon the will, and the body + responded. For a few minutes his speed became greater. A disappointed + shout arose behind him, and several shots were fired. But the bullets fell + a hundred yards short, and then, as he passed over a little hill and into + a wood beyond, he was hidden from the sight of his pursuers. + </p> + <p> + Henry knew that the Iroquois could trail him over the snow, but they could + not do it at full speed, and he turned sharply off at an angle. Pausing a + second or two for fresh breath, he continued on his new course, although + not so fast as before. He knew that the Iroquois would rush straight + ahead, and would not discover for two or three minutes that they were off + the trail. It would take them another two or three minutes to recover, and + he would make a gain of at least five minutes. Five minutes had saved the + life of many a man on the border. + </p> + <p> + How precious those five minutes were! He would take them all. He ran + forward some distance, stopped where the trees grew thick, and then + enjoyed the golden five, minute by minute. He had felt that he was pumping + the very lifeblood from his heart. His breath had come painfully, and the + thongs of the snowshoes were chafing his ankles terribly. But those + minutes were worth a year. Fresh air poured into his lungs, and the + muscles became elastic once more. In so brief a space he had recreated + himself. + </p> + <p> + Resuming his flight, he went at a steady pace, resolved not to do his + utmost unless the enemy came in sight. About ten minutes later he heard a + cry far behind him, and he believed it to be a signal from some Indian to + the others that the trail was found again. But with so much advantage he + felt sure that he was now quite safe. He ran, although at decreased speed, + for about two hours more, and then he sat down on the upthrust root of a + great oak. Here he depended most upon his ears. The forest was so silent + that he could hear any noise at a great distance, but there was none. + Trusting to his ears to warn him, he would remain there a long time for a + thorough rest. He even dared to take off his snowshoes that he might rub + his sore ankles, but he wrapped his heavy blanket about his body, lest he + take deep cold in cooling off in such a temperature after so long a + flight. + </p> + <p> + He sat enjoying a half hour, golden like the five minutes, and then he + saw, outlined against the bright, moonlit sky, something that told him he + must be on the alert again. It was a single ring of smoke, like that from + a cigar, only far greater. It rose steadily, untroubled by wind until it + was dissipated. It meant “attention!” and presently it was followed by a + column of such rings, one following another beautifully. The column said: + “The foe is near.” Henry read the Indian signs perfectly. The rings were + made by covering a little fire with a blanket for a moment and then + allowing the smoke to ascend. On clear days such signals could be seen a + distance of thirty miles or more, and he knew that they were full of + significance. + </p> + <p> + Evidently the Iroquois party had divided into two or more bands. One had + found his trail, and was signaling to the other. The party sending up the + smoke might be a half mile away, but the others, although his trail was + yet hidden from them, might be nearer. It was again time for flight. + </p> + <p> + He swiftly put on the snowshoes, neglecting no thong or lace, folded the + blanket on his back again, and, leaving the friendly root, started once + more. He ran forward at moderate speed for perhaps a mile, when he + suddenly heard triumphant yells on both right and left. A strong party of + Iroquois were coming up on either side, and luck had enabled them to catch + him in a trap. + </p> + <p> + They were so near that they fired upon him, and one bullet nicked his + glove, but he was hopeful that after his long rest he might again stave + them off. He sent back no defiant cry, but, settling into determined + silence, ran at his utmost speed. The forest here was of large trees, with + no undergrowth, and he noticed that the two parties did not join, but kept + on as they had come, one on the right and the other on the left. This fact + must have some significance, but he could not fathom it. Neither could he + guess whether the Indians were fresh or tired, but apparently they made no + effort to come within range of his rifle. + </p> + <p> + Presently he made a fresh spurt of speed, the forest opened out, and then + both bands uttered a yell full of ferocity and joy, the kind that savages + utter only when they see their triumph complete. + </p> + <p> + Before, and far below Henry, stretched a vast, white expanse. He had come + to the lake, but at a point where the cliff rose high like a mountain, and + steep like a wall. The surface of the lake was so far down that it was + misty white like a cloud. Now he understood the policy of the Indian bands + in not uniting. They knew that they would soon reach the lofty cliffs of + the lake, and if he turned to either right or left there was a band ready + to seize him. + </p> + <p> + Henry's heart leaped up and then sank lower than ever before in his life. + It seemed that he could not escape from so complete a trap, and Braxton + Wyatt was not one who would spare a prisoner. That was perhaps the + bitterest thing of all, to be taken and tortured by Braxton Wyatt. He was + there. He could hear his voice in one of the bands, and then the courage + that never failed him burst into fire again. + </p> + <p> + The Iroquois were coming toward him, shutting him out from retreat to + either right or left, but not yet closing in because of his deadly rifle. + He gave them a single look, put forth his voice in one great cry of + defiance, and, rushing toward the edge of the mighty cliff, sprang boldly + over. + </p> + <p> + As Henry plunged downward he heard behind him a shout of amazement and + chagrin poured forth from many Iroquois throats, and, taking a single + glance backward, he caught a glimpse of dusky faces stamped with awe. But + the bold youth had not made a leap to destruction. In the passage of a + second he had calculated rapidly and well. While the cliff at first glance + seemed perpendicular, it could not be so. There was a slope coated with + two feet of snow, and swinging far back on the heels of his snowshoes, he + shot downward like one taking a tremendous slide on a toboggan. Faster and + faster he went, but deeper and deeper he dug his shoes into the snow, + until he lay back almost flat against its surface. This checked his speed + somewhat, but it was still very great, and, preserving his self-control + perfectly, he prayed aloud to kindly Providence to save him from some + great boulder or abrupt drop. + </p> + <p> + The snow from his runners flew in a continuous shower behind him as he + descended. Yet he drew himself compactly together, and held his rifle + parallel with his body. Once or twice, as he went over a little ridge, he + shot clear of the snow, but he held his body rigid, and the snow beyond + saved him from a severe bruise. Then his speed was increased again, and + all the time the white surface of the lake below, seen dimly through the + night and his flight, seemed miles away. + </p> + <p> + He might never reach that surface alive, but of one thing lie was sure. + None of the Iroquois or Tories had dared to follow. Braxton Wyatt could + have no triumph over him. He was alone in his great flight. Once a + projection caused him to turn a little to one side. He was in momentary + danger of turning entirely, and then of rolling head over heels like a + huge snowball, but with a mighty effort he righted himself, and continued + the descent on the runners, with the heels plowing into the ice and the + snow. + </p> + <p> + Now that white expanse which had seemed so far away came miles nearer. + Presently he would be there. The impossible had become possible, the + unattainable was about to be attained. He gave another mighty dig with his + shoes, the last reach of the slope passed behind him, and he shot out on + the frozen surface of the lake, bruised and breathless, but without a + single broken bone. + </p> + <p> + The lake was covered with ice a foot thick, and over this lay frozen snow, + which stopped Henry forty or fifty yards from the cliff. There he lost his + balance at last, and fell on his side, where he lay for a few moments, + weak, panting, but triumphant. + </p> + <p> + When he stood upright again he felt his body, but he had suffered nothing + save some bruises, that would heal in their own good time. His deerskin + clothing was much torn, particularly on the back, where he had leaned upon + the ice and snow, but the folded blanket had saved him to a considerable + extent. One of his shoes was pulled loose, and presently he discovered + that his left ankle was smarting and burning at a great rate. But he did + not mind these things at all, so complete was his sense of victory. He + looked up at the mighty white wall that stretched above him fifteen + hundred feet, and he wondered at his own tremendous exploit. The wall ran + away for miles, and the Iroquois could not reach him by any easier path. + He tried to make out figures on the brink looking down at him, but it was + too far away, and he saw only a black line. + </p> + <p> + He tightened the loose shoe and struck out across the lake. He was far + away from “The Alcove,” and he did not intend to go there, lest the + Iroquois, by chance, come upon his trail and follow it to the refuge. But + as it was no more than two miles across the lake at that point, and the + Iroquois would have to make a great curve to reach the other side, he felt + perfectly safe. He walked slowly across, conscious all the time of an + increasing pain in his left ankle, which must now be badly swollen, and he + did not stop until he penetrated some distance among low bills. Here, + under an overhanging cliff with thick bushes in front, he found a partial + shelter, which he cleared out yet further. Then with infinite patience he + built a fire with splinters that he cut from dead boughs, hung his blanket + in front of it on two sticks that the flame might not be seen, took off + his snowshoes, leggins, and socks, and bared his ankles. Both were + swollen, but the left much more badly than the other. He doubted whether + he would be able to walk on the following day, but he rubbed them a long + time, both with the palms of his hands and with snow, until they felt + better. Then he replaced his clothing, leaned back against the faithful + snowshoes which had saved his life, however much they had hurt his ankles, + and gave himself up to the warmth of the fire. + </p> + <p> + It was very luxurious, this warmth and this rest, after so long and + terrible a flight, and he was conscious of a great relaxation, one which, + if he yielded to it completely, would make his muscles so stiff and + painful that he could not use them. Hence he stretched his arms and legs + many times, rubbed his ankles again, and then, remembering that he had + venison, ate several strips. + </p> + <p> + He knew that he had taken a little risk with the fire, but a fire he was + bound to have, and he fed it again until he had a great mass of glowing + coals, although there was no blaze. Then he took down the blanket, wrapped + himself in it, and was soon asleep before the fire. He slept long and + deeply, and although, when he awoke, the day had fully come, the coals + were not yet out entirely. He arose, but such a violent pain from his left + ankle shot through him that he abruptly sat down again. As he bad feared, + it had swollen badly during the night, and he could not walk. + </p> + <p> + In this emergency Henry displayed no petulance, no striving against + unchangeable circumstance. He drew up more wood, which he had stacked + against the cliff, and put it on the coals. He hung up the blanket once + more in order that it might hide the fire, stretched out his lame leg, and + calmly made a breakfast off the last of his venison. He knew he was in a + plight that might appall the bravest, but he kept himself in hand. It was + likely that the Iroquois thought him dead, crushed into a shapeless mass + by his frightful slide of fifteen hundred feet, and he had little fear of + them, but to be unable to walk and alone in an icy wilderness without food + was sufficient in itself. He calculated that it was at least a dozen miles + to “The Alcove,” and the chances were a hundred to one against any of his + comrades wandering his way. He looked once more at his swollen left ankle, + and he made a close calculation. It would be three days, more likely four, + before he could walk upon it. Could he endure hunger that long? He could. + He would! Crouched in his nest with his back to the cliff, he had defense + against any enemy in his rifle and pistol. By faithful watching he might + catch sight of some wandering animal, a target for his rifle and then food + for his stomach. His wilderness wisdom warned him that there was nothing + to do but sit quiet and wait. + </p> + <p> + He scarcely moved for hours. As long as he was still his ankle troubled + him but little. The sun came out, silver bright, but it had no warmth. The + surface of the lake was shown only by the smoothness of its expanse; the + icy covering was the same everywhere over hills and valleys. Across the + lake he saw the steep down which he had slid, looming white and lofty. In + the distance it looked perpendicular, and, whatever its terrors, it had, + beyond a doubt, saved his life. He glanced down at his swollen ankle, and, + despite his helpless situation, he was thankful that he had escaped so + well. + </p> + <p> + About noon he moved enough to throw up the snowbanks higher all around + himself in the fashion of an Eskimos house. Then he let the fire die + except some coals that gave forth no smoke, stretched the blanket over his + head in the manner of a roof, and once more resumed his quiet and + stillness. He was now like a crippled animal in its lair, but he was warm, + and his wound did not hurt him. But hunger began to trouble him. He was + young and so powerful that his frame demanded much sustenance. Now it + cried aloud its need! He ate two or three handfuls of snow, and for a few + moments it seemed to help him a little, but his hunger soon came back as + strong as ever. Then he tightened his belt and sat in grim silence, trying + to forget that there was any such thing as food. + </p> + <p> + The effort of the will was almost a success throughout the afternoon, but + before night it failed. He began to have roseate visions of Long Jim + trying venison, wild duck, bear, and buffalo steaks over the coals. He + could sniff the aroma, so powerful had his imagination become, and, in + fancy, his month watered, while its roof was really dry. They were + daylight visions, and he knew it well, but they taunted him and made his + pain fiercer. He slid forward a little to the mouth of his shelter, and + thrust out his rifle in the hope that he would see some wild creature, no + matter what; he felt that he could shoot it at any distance, and then he + would feast! + </p> + <p> + He saw nothing living, either on earth or in the air, only motionless + white, and beyond, showing but faintly now through the coming twilight, + the lofty cliff that had saved him. + </p> + <p> + He drew back into his lair, and the darkness came down. Despite his + hunger, he slept fairly well. In the night a little snow fell at times, + but his blanket roof protected him, and he remained dry and warm. The new + snow was, in a way, a satisfaction, as it completely hid his trail from + the glance of any wandering Indian. He awoke the next morning to a gray, + somber day, with piercing winds from the northwest. He did not feel the + pangs of hunger until he had been awake about a half hour, and then they + came with redoubled force. Moreover, he had become weaker in the night, + and, added to the loss of muscular strength, was a decrease in the power + of the will. Hunger was eating away his mental as well as his physical + fiber. He did not face the situation with quite the same confidence that + he felt the day before. The wilderness looked a little more threatening. + </p> + <p> + His lips felt as if he were suffering from fever, and his shoulders and + back were stiff. But he drew his belt tighter again, and then uncovered + his left ankle. The swelling had gone down a little, and he could move it + with more freedom than on the day before, but he could not yet walk. Once + more he made his grim calculation. In two days he could certainly walk and + hunt game or make a try for “The Alcove,” so far as his ankle was + concerned, but would hunger overpower him before that time? Gaining + strength in one direction, he was losing it in another. + </p> + <p> + Now he began to grow angry with himself. The light inroad that famine made + upon his will was telling. It seemed incredible that he, so powerful, so + skillful, so self reliant, so long used to the wilderness and to every + manner of hardship, should be held there in a snowbank by a bruised ankle + to die like a crippled rabbit. His comrades could not be more than ten + miles away. He could walk. He would walk! He stood upright and stepped out + into the snow, but pain, so agonizing that he could scarcely keep from + crying out, shot through his whole body, and he sank back into the + shelter, sure not to make such an experiment again for another full day. + </p> + <p> + The day passed much like its predecessor, except that he took down the + blanket cover of his snow hut and kindled up his fire again, more for the + sake of cheerfulness than for warmth, because he was not suffering from + cold. There was a certain life and light about the coals and the bright + flame, but the relief did not last long, and by and by he let it go out. + Then be devoted himself to watching the heavens and the surface of the + snow. Some winter bird, duck or goose, might be flying by, or a wandering + deer might be passing. He must not lose any such chance. He was more than + ever a fierce creature of prey, sitting at the mouth of his den, the rifle + across his knee, his tanned face so thin that the cheek bones showed high + and sharp, his eyes bright with fever and the fierce desire for prey, and + the long, lean body drawn forward as if it were about to leap. + </p> + <p> + He thought often of dragging himself down to the lake, breaking a hole in + the ice, and trying to fish, but the idea invariably came only to be + abandoned. He had neither hook nor bait. In the afternoon he chewed the + edge of his buckskin hunting shirt, but it was too thoroughly tanned and + dry. It gave back no sustenance. He abandoned the experiment and lay still + for a long time. + </p> + <p> + That night he had a slight touch of frenzy, and began to laugh at himself. + It was a huge joke! What would Timmendiquas or Thayendanegea think of him + if they knew how he came to his end? They would put him with old squaws or + little children. And how Braxton Wyatt and his lieutenant, the squat Tory, + would laugh! That was the bitterest thought of all. But the frenzy passed, + and he fell into a sleep which was only a succession of bad dreams. He was + running the gauntlet again among the Shawnees. Again, kneeling to drink at + the clear pool, he saw in the water the shadow of the triumphant warrior + holding the tomahawk above him. One after another the most critical + periods of his life were lived over again, and then he sank into a deep + torpor, from which he did not rouse himself until far into the next day. + </p> + <p> + Henry was conscious that he was very weak, but he seemed to have regained + much of his lost will. He looked once more at the fatal left ankle. It had + improved greatly. He could even stand upon it, but when he rose to his + feet he felt a singular dizziness. Again, what he had gained in one way he + had lost in another. The earth wavered. The smooth surface of the lake + seemed to rise swiftly, and then to sink as swiftly. The far slope down + which he had shot rose to the height of miles. There was a pale tinge, + too, over the world. He sank down, not because of his ankle, but because + he was afraid his dizzy head would make him fall. + </p> + <p> + The power of will slipped away again for a minute or two. He was ashamed + of such extraordinary weakness. He looked at one of his hands. It was + thin, like the band of a man wasted with fever, and the blue veins stood + out on the back of it. He could scarcely believe that the hand was his + own. But after the first spasm of weakness was over, the precious will + returned. He could walk. Strength enough to permit him to hobble along had + returned to the ankle at last, and mind must control the rest of his + nervous system, however weakened it might be. He must seek food. + </p> + <p> + He withdrew into the farthest recess of his covert, wrapped the blanket + tightly about his body, and lay still for a long time. He was preparing + both mind and body for the supreme effort. He knew that everything hung + now on the surviving remnants of his skill and courage. + </p> + <p> + Weakened by shock and several days of fasting, he had no great reserve now + except the mental, and he used that to the utmost. It was proof of his + youthful greatness that it stood the last test. As he lay there, the final + ounce of will and courage came. Strength which was of the mind rather than + of the body flowed back into his veins; he felt able to dare and to do; + the pale aspect of the world went away, and once more he was Henry Ware, + alert, skillful, and always triumphant. + </p> + <p> + Then he rose again, folded the blanket, and fastened it on his shoulders. + He looked at the snowshoes, but decided that his left ankle, despite its + great improvement, would not stand the strain. He must break his way + through the snow, which was a full three feet in depth. Fortunately the + crust had softened somewhat in the last two or three days, and he did not + have a covering of ice to meet. + </p> + <p> + He pushed his way for the first time from the lair under the cliff, his + rifle held in his ready hands, in order that he might miss no chance at + game. To an ordinary observer there would have been no such chance at all. + It was merely a grim white wilderness that might have been without + anything living from the beginning. But Henry, the forest runner, knew + better. Somewhere in the snow were lairs much like the one that he had + left, and in these lairs were wild animals. To any such wild animal, + whether panther or bear, the hunter would now have been a fearsome object, + with his hollow cheeks, his sunken fiery eyes, and his thin lips opening + now and then, and disclosing the two rows of strong white teeth. + </p> + <p> + Henry advanced about a rod, and then he stopped, breathing hard, because + it was desperate work for one in his condition to break his way through + snow so deep. But his ankle stood the strain well, and his courage + increased rather than diminished. He was no longer a cripple confined to + one spot. While he stood resting, he noticed a clump of bushes about half + a rod to his left, and a hopeful idea came to him. + </p> + <p> + He broke his way slowly to the bushes, and then he searched carefully + among them. The snow was not nearly so thick there, and under the thickest + clump, where the shelter was best, he saw a small round opening. In an + instant all his old vigorous life, all the abounding hope which was such a + strong characteristic of his nature, came back to him. Already he had + triumphed over Indians, Tories, the mighty slope, snow, ice, crippling, + and starvation. + </p> + <p> + He laid the rifle on the snow and took the ramrod in his right hand. He + thrust his left hand into the hole, and when the rabbit leaped for life + from his warm nest a smart blow of the ramrod stretched him dead at the + feet of the hunter. Henry picked up the rabbit. It was large and yet fat. + Here was food for two meals. In the race between the ankle and starvation, + the ankle had won. + </p> + <p> + He did not give way to any unseemly elation. He even felt a momentary + sorrow that a life must perish to save his own, because all these wild + things were his kindred now. He returned by the path that he had broken, + kindled his fire anew, dexterously skinned and cleaned his rabbit, then + cooked it and ate half, although he ate slowly and with intervals between + each piece. How delicious it tasted, and how his physical being longed to + leap upon it and devour it, but the power of the mind was still supreme. + He knew what was good for himself, and he did it. Everything was done in + order and with sobriety. Then he put the rest of the rabbit carefully in + his food pouch, wrapped the blanket about his body, leaned back, and + stretched his feet to the coals. + </p> + <p> + What an extraordinary change had come over the world in an hour! He had + not noticed before the great beauty of the lake, the lofty cliffs on the + farther shore, and the forest clothed in white and hanging with icicles. + </p> + <p> + The winter sunshine was molten silver, pouring down in a flood. + </p> + <p> + It was not will now, but actuality, that made him feel the strength + returning to his frame. He knew that the blood in his veins had begun to + sparkle, and that his vitality was rising fast. He could have gone to + sleep peacefully, but instead he went forth and hunted again. He knew that + where the rabbit had been, others were likely to be near, and before he + returned he had secured two more. Both of these he cleaned and cooked at + once. When this was done night had come, but he ate again, and then, + securing all his treasures about him, fell into the best sleep that he had + enjoyed since his flight. + </p> + <p> + He felt very strong the next morning, and he might have started then, but + he was prudent. There was still a chance of meeting the Iroquois, and the + ankle might not stand so severe a test. He would rest in his nest for + another day, and then he would be equal to anything. Few could lie a whole + day in one place with but little to do and with nothing passing before the + eyes, but it was a part of Henry's wilderness training, and he showed all + the patience of the forester. He knew, too, as the hours went by, that his + strength was rising all the while. To-morrow almost the last soreness + would be gone from his ankle and then he could glide swiftly over the + snow, back to his comrades. He was content. He had, in fact, a sense of + great triumph because he had overcome so much, and here was new food in + this example for future efforts of the mind, for future victories of the + will over the body. The wintry sun came to the zenith, then passed slowly + down the curve, but all the time the boy scarcely stirred. Once there was + a flight of small birds across the heavens, and he watched them vaguely, + but apparently he took no interest. Toward night he stood up in his recess + and flexed and tuned his muscles for a long time, driving out any + stiffness that might come through long lack of motion. Then he ate and lay + down, but he did not yet sleep. + </p> + <p> + The night was clear, and he looked away toward the point where he knew + “The Alcove” lay. A good moon was now shining, and stars by the score were + springing out. Suddenly at a point on that far shore a spark of red light + appeared and twinkled. Most persons would have taken it for some low star, + but Henry knew better. It was fire put there by human hand for a purpose, + doubtless a signal, and as he looked a second spark appeared by the first, + then a third, then a fourth. He uttered a great sigh of pleasure. It was + his four friends signaling to him somewhere in the vast unknown that they + were alive and well, and beckoning him to come. The lights burned for + fifteen or twenty minutes, and then all went out together. Henry turned + over on his side and fell sound asleep. In the morning he put on his + snowshoes and started. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0019" id="link2HCH0019"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XIX. THE SAFE RETURN + </h2> + <p> + The surface of the snow had frozen again in the night, and Henry found + good footing for his shoes. For a while he leaned most on the right ankle, + but, as his left developed no signs of soreness, he used them equally, and + sped forward, his spirits rising at every step. The air was cold, and + there was but little breeze, but his own motion made a wind that whipped + his face. The hollows were mostly gone from his cheeks, and his eyes no + longer had the fierce, questing look of the famishing wild animal in + search of prey. A fine red color was suffused through the brown of his + face. He had chosen his course with due precaution. The broad surface, + smooth, white, and glittering, tempted, but he put the temptation away. He + did not wish to run any chance whatever of another Iroquois pursuit, and + he kept in the forest that ran down close to the water's edge. It was + tougher traveling there, but he persisted. + </p> + <p> + But all thought of weariness and trouble was lost in his glorious freedom. + With his crippled ankle he had been really like a prisoner in his cell, + with a ball and chain to his foot. Now he flew along, while the cold wind + whipped his blood, and felt what a delight it was merely to live. He went + on thus for hours, skirting down toward the cliffs that contained “The + Alcove.” He rested a while in the afternoon and ate the last of his + rabbit, but before twilight he reached the creek, and stood at the hidden + path that led up to their home. + </p> + <p> + Henry sat down behind thick bushes and took off his snowshoes. To one who + had never come before, the whole place would have seemed absolutely + desolate, and even to one not a stranger no sign of life would have been + visible had he not possessed uncommonly keen eyes. But Henry had such + eyes. He saw the faintest wisp of smoke stealing away against the surface + of the cliff, and he felt confident that all four were there. He resolved + to surprise them. + </p> + <p> + Laying the shoes aside, he crept so carefully up the path that he + dislodged no snow and made no noise of any kind. As he gradually + approached “The Alcove” he beard the murmur of voices, and presently, as + he turned an angle in the path, he saw a beam of glorious mellow light + falling on the snow. + </p> + <p> + But the murmur of the voices sent a great thrill of delight through him. + Low and indistinct as they were, they had a familiar sound. He knew all + those tones. They were the voices of his faithful comrades, the four who + had gone with him through so many perils and hardships, the little band + who with himself were ready to die at any time, one for another. + </p> + <p> + He crept a little closer, and then a little closer still. Lying almost + flat on the steep path, and drawing himself forward, he looked into “The + Alcove.” A fire of deep, red coals glowed in one corner, and disposed + about it were the four. Paul lay on his elbow on a deerskin, and was + gazing into the coals. Tom Ross was working on a pair of moccasins, Long + Jim was making some kind of kitchen implement, and Shif'less Sol was + talking. Henry could hear the words distinctly, and they were about + himself. + </p> + <p> + “Henry will turn up all right,” he was saying. “Hasn't he always done it + afore? Then ef he's always done it afore he's shorely not goin' to break + his rule now. I tell you, boys, thar ain't enough Injuns an' Tories + between Canady an' New Orleans, an' the Mississippi an' the Atlantic, to + ketch Henry. I bet I could guess what he's doin' right at this moment.” + </p> + <p> + “What is he doing, Sol?” asked Paul. + </p> + <p> + “When I shet my eyes ez I'm doin' now I kin see him,” said the shiftless + one. “He's away off thar toward the north, skirtin' around an Injun + village, Mohawk most likely, lookin' an' listenin' an' gatherin' talk + about their plans.” + </p> + <p> + “He ain't doin' any sech thing,” broke in Long Jim. + </p> + <p> + “I've sleet my eyes, too, Sol Hyde, jest ez tight ez you've shet yours, + an' I see him, too, but he ain't doin' any uv the things that you're + talkin' about.” + </p> + <p> + “What is he doing, Jim?” asked Paul. + </p> + <p> + “Henry's away off to the south, not to the north,” replied the long one, + “an' he's in the Iroquois village that we burned. One house has been left + standin', an' he's been occupyin' it while the big snow's on the groun'. A + whole deer is hangin' from the wall, an' he's been settin' thar fur days, + eatin' so much an' hevin' such a good time that the fat's hangin' down + over his cheeks, an' his whole body is threatenin' to bust right out uv + his huntin' shirt.” + </p> + <p> + Paul moved a little on his elbow and turned the other side of his face to + the fire. Then he glanced at the silent worker with the moccasins. + </p> + <p> + “Sol and Jim don't seem to agree much in their second sight,” he said. + “Can you have any vision, too, Tom?” + </p> + <p> + “Yes,” replied Tom Ross, “I kin. I shet my eyes, but I don't see like + either Sol or Jim, 'cause both uv 'em see wrong. I see Henry, an' I see + him plain. He's had a pow'ful tough time. He ain't threatenin' to bust + with fat out uv no huntin' shirt, his cheeks ain't so full that they are + fallin' down over his jaws. It's t'other way roun'; them cheeks are sunk a + mite, he don't fill out his clothes, an' when he crawls along he drags his + left leg a leetle, though he hides it from hisself. He ain't spyin' on no + Injun village, an' he ain't in no snug camp with a dressed deer hangin' by + the side uv him. It's t'other way 'roan'. He's layin' almost flat on his + face not twenty feet from us, lookin' right in at us, an' I wuz the first + to see him.” + </p> + <p> + All the others sprang to their feet in astonishment, and Henry likewise + sprang to his feet. Three leaps, and he was in the mellow glow. + </p> + <p> + “And so you saw me, Tom,” he exclaimed, as he joyously grasped one hand + after another. “I might have known that, while I could stalk some of you, + I could not stalk all of you.” + </p> + <p> + “I caught the glimpse uv you,” said Silent Tom, “while Sol an' Jim wuz + talkin' the foolish talk that they most always talk, an' when Paul called + on me, I thought I would give 'em a dream that 'wuz true, an' worth + tellin'.” + </p> + <p> + “You're right,” said Henry. “I've not been having any easy time, and for a + while, boys, it looked as if I never would come back. Sit down, and I will + tell you all about it.” + </p> + <p> + They gave him the warmest place by the fire, brought him the tenderest + food, and he told the long and thrilling tale. + </p> + <p> + “I don't believe anybody else but you would have tried it, Henry,” said + Paul, when they heard of the fearful slide. + </p> + <p> + “Any one of you would have done it,” said Henry, modestly. + </p> + <p> + “I'm pow'ful glad that you done it for two reasons,” said Shif'less Sol. + “One, 'cause it helped you to git away, an' the other, 'cause that + scoundrel, Braxton Wyatt, didn't take you. 'Twould hurt my pride + tre-men-jeous for any uv us to be took by Braxton Wyatt.” + </p> + <p> + “You speak for us all there, Sol,” said Paul. + </p> + <p> + “What have all of you been doing?” asked Henry. + </p> + <p> + “Not much of anything,” replied Shif'less Sol. “We've been scoutin' + several times, lookin' fur you, though we knowed you'd come in some time + or other, but mostly we've been workin' 'roun' the place here, fixin' it + up warmer an' storin' away food.” + </p> + <p> + “We'll have to continue at that for some time, I'm afraid,” said Henry, + “unless this snow breaks up. Have any of you heard if any movement is yet + on foot against the Iroquois?” + </p> + <p> + “Tom ran across some scouts from the militia,” replied Paul, “and they + said nothing could be done until warm weather came. Then a real army would + march.” + </p> + <p> + “I hope so,” said Henry earnestly. + </p> + <p> + But for the present the five could achieve little. The snow lasted a long + time, but it was finally swept away by big rains. It poured for two days + and nights, and even when the rain ceased the snow continued to melt under + the warmer air. The water rushed in great torrents down the cliffs, and + would have entered “The Alcove” had not the five made provision to turn it + away. As it was, they sat snug and dry, listening to the gush of the + water, the sign of falling snow, and the talk of one another. Yet the time + dragged. + </p> + <p> + “Man wuz never made to be a caged animile,” said Shif'less Sol. “The + longer I stay shet up in one place, the weaker I become. My temper don't + improve, neither, an' I ain't happy.” + </p> + <p> + “Guess it's the same with all uv us,” said Tom Ross. + </p> + <p> + But when the earth came from beneath the snow, although it was still cold + weather, they began again to range the forest far in every direction, and + they found that the Indians, and the Tories also, were becoming active. + There were more burnings, more slaughters, and more scalpings. The whole + border was still appalled at the massacres of Wyoming and Cherry Valley, + and the savages were continually spreading over a wider area. Braxton + Wyatt at the head of his band, and with the aid of his Tory lieutenant, + Levi Coleman, had made for himself a name equal to that of Walter Butler. + As for “Indian” Butler and his men, no men were hated more thoroughly than + they. + </p> + <p> + The five continued to do the best they could, which was much, carrying + many a warning, and saving some who would otherwise have been victims. + While they devoted themselves to their strenuous task, great events in + which they were to take a part were preparing. The rear guard of the + Revolution was about to become for the time the main guard. A great eye + had been turned upon the ravaged and bleeding border, and a great mind, + which could bear misfortune-even disaster-without complaint, was preparing + to send help to those farther away. So mighty a cry of distress had risen, + that the power of the Iroquois must be destroyed. As the warm weather + came, the soldiers began to march. + </p> + <p> + Rumors that a formidable foe was about to advance reached the Iroquois and + their allies, the Tories, the English, and the Canadians. There was a + great stirring among the leaders, Thayendanegea, Hiokatoo, Sangerachte, + the Johnsons, the Butlers, Claus, and the rest. Haldimand, the king's + representative in Canada, sent forth an urgent call to all the Iroquois to + meet the enemy. The Tories were' extremely active. Promises were made to + the tribes that they should have other victories even greater than those + of Wyoming and Cherry Valley, and again the terrible Queen Esther went + among them, swinging her great war tomahawk over her head and chanting her + song of death. She, more than any other, inflamed the Iroquois, and they + were eager for the coming contest. + </p> + <p> + Timmendiquas had gone back to the Ohio country in the winter, but, + faithful to his promise to give Thayendanegea help to the last, he + returned in the spring with a hundred chosen warriors of the Wyandot + nation, a reenforcement the value of which could not be estimated too + highly. + </p> + <p> + Henry and his comrades felt the stir as they roamed through the forest, + and they thrilled at the thought that the crisis was approaching. Then + they set out for Lake Otsego, where the army was gathering for the great + campaign. They were equipped thoroughly, and they were now so well known + in the region that they knew they would be welcome. + </p> + <p> + They traveled several days, and were preparing to encamp for the last + night within about fifteen miles of the lake when Henry, scouting as usual + to see if an enemy were near, heard a footstep in the forest. He wheeled + instantly to cover behind the body of a great beech tree, and the stranger + sought to do likewise, only he had no convenient tree that was so large. + It was about the twelfth hour, but Henry could see a portion of a body + protruding beyond a slim oak, and he believed that he recognized it. As he + held the advantage he would, at any rate, hail the stranger. + </p> + <p> + “Ho, Cornelius Heemskerk, Dutchman, fat man, great scout and woodsman, + what are you doing in my wilderness? Stand forth at once and give an + account of yourself, or I will shoot off the part of your body that sticks + beyond that oak tree!” + </p> + <p> + The answer was instantaneous. A round, plump body revolved from the + partial shelter of the tree and stood upright in the open, rifle in hand + and cap thrown back from a broad ruddy brow. + </p> + <p> + “Ho, Mynheer Henry Ware,” replied Cornelius Heemskerk in a loud, clear + tone, “I am in your woods on perhaps the same errand that you are. Come + from behind that beech and let us see which has the stronger grip.” + </p> + <p> + Henry stood forth, and the two clasped hands in a grip so powerful that + both winced. Then they released hands simultaneously, and Heemskerk asked: + </p> + <p> + “And the other four mynheers? Am I wrong to say that they are near, + somewhere?” + </p> + <p> + “You are not wrong,” replied Henry. “They are alive, well and hungry, not + a mile from here. There is one man whom they would be very glad to see, + and his name is Cornelius Heemskerk, who is roaming in our woods without a + permit.” + </p> + <p> + The round, ruddy face of the Dutchman glowed. It was obvious that he felt + as much delight in seeing Henry as Henry felt in seeing him. + </p> + <p> + “My heart swells,” he said. “I feared that you might have been killed or + scalped, or, at the best, have gone back to that far land of Kentucky.” + </p> + <p> + “We have wintered well,” said Henry, “in a place of which I shall not tell + you now, and we are here to see the campaign through.” + </p> + <p> + “I come, too, for the same purpose,” said Heemskerk. “We shall be + together. It is goot.” “Meanwhile,” said Henry, “our camp fire is lighted. + Jim Hart, whom you have known of old, is cooking strips of meat over the + coals, and, although it is a mile away, the odor of them is very pleasant + in my nostrils. I wish to go back there, and it will be all the more + delightful to me, and to those who wait, if I can bring with me such a + welcome guest.” + </p> + <p> + “Lead on, mynheer,” said Cornelius Heemskerk sententiously. + </p> + <p> + He received an equally emphatic welcome from the others, and then they ate + and talked. Heemskerk was sanguine. + </p> + <p> + “Something will be done this time,” he said. “Word has come from the great + commander that the Iroquois must be crushed. The thousands who have fallen + must be avenged, and this great fire along our border must be stopped. If + it cannot be done, then we perish. We have old tales in my own country of + the cruel deeds that the Spaniards did long, long ago, but they were not + worse than have been done here.” + </p> + <p> + The five made no response, but the mind of every one of them traveled back + to Wyoming and all that they had seen there, and the scars and traces of + many more tragedies. + </p> + <p> + They reached the camp on Lake Otsego the next day, and Henry saw that all + they had heard was true. The most formidable force that they had ever seen + was gathering. There were many companies in the Continental buff and blue, + epauletted officers, bayonets and cannon. The camp was full of life, + energy, and hope, and the five at once felt the influence of it. They + found here old friends whom they had known in the march on Oghwaga, + William Gray, young Taylor, and others, and they were made very welcome. + They were presented to General James Clinton, then in charge, received + roving commissions as scouts and hunters, and with Heemskerk and the two + celebrated borderers, Timothy Murphy and David Elerson, they roamed the + forest in a great circle about the lake, bringing much valuable + information about the movements of the enemy, who in their turn were + gathering in force, while the royal authorities were dispatching both + Indians and white men from Canada to help them. + </p> + <p> + These great scouting expeditions saved the five from much impatience. It + takes a long time for an army to gather and then to equip itself for the + march, and they were so used to swift motion that it was now a part of + their nature. At last the army was ready, and it left the lake. Then it + proceeded in boats down the Tioga flooded to a sufficient depth by an + artificial dam built with immense labor, to its confluence with the larger + river. Here were more men, and the five saw a new commander, General James + Sullivan, take charge of the united force. Then the army, late in August, + began its march upon the Iroquois. + </p> + <p> + The five were now in the van, miles ahead of the main guard. They knew + that no important movement of so large a force could escape the notice of + the enemy, but they, with other scouts, made it their duty to see that the + Americans marched into no trap. + </p> + <p> + It was now the waning summer. The leaves were lightly touched with brown, + and the grass had begun to wither. Berries were ripening on the vines, and + the quantity of game had increased, the wild animals returning to the land + from which civilized man had disappeared. The desolation seemed even more + complete than in the autumn before. In the winter and spring the Iroquois + and Tories had destroyed the few remnants of houses that were left. + Braxton Wyatt and his band had been particularly active in this work, and + many tales had come of his cruelty and that of his swart Tory lieutenant, + Coleman. Henry was sure, too, that Wyatt's band, which numbered perhaps + fifty Indians and Tories, was now in front of them. + </p> + <p> + He, his comrades, Heemskerk, Elerson, Murphy, and four others, twelve + brave forest runners all told, went into camp one night about ten miles + ahead of the army. They lighted no fire, and, even had it been cold, they + would not have done so, as the region was far too dangerous for any light. + Yet the little band felt no fear. They were only twelve, it is true, but + such a twelve! No chance would either Indians or Tories have to surprise + them. + </p> + <p> + They merely lay down in the thick brushwood, three intending to keep watch + while the others slept. Henry, Shif'less Sol, and Heemskerk were the + sentinels. It was very late, nearly midnight; the sky was clear, and + presently they saw smoke rings ascending from high hills to their right, + to be answered soon by other rings of smoke to their left. The three + watched them with but little comment, and read every signal in turn. They + said: “The enemy is still advancing,” “He is too strong for us...... We + must retreat and await our brethren.” + </p> + <p> + “It means that there will be no battle to-morrow, at least,” whispered + Heemskerk. “Brant is probably ahead of us in command, and he will avoid us + until he receives the fresh forces from Canada.” + </p> + <p> + “I take it that you're right,” Henry whispered back. “Timmendiquas also is + with him, and the two great chiefs are too cunning to fight until they can + bring their last man into action.” + </p> + <p> + “An' then,” said the shiftless one, “we'll see what happens.” + </p> + <p> + “Yes,” said Henry very gravely, “we'll see what happens. The Iroquois are + a powerful confederacy. They've ruled in these woods for hundreds of + years. They're led by great chiefs, and they're helped by our white + enemies. You can't tell what would happen even to an army like ours in an + ambush.” + </p> + <p> + Shif'less Sol nodded, and they said no more until an hour later, when they + heard footsteps. They awakened the others, and the twelve, crawling to the + edge of the brushwood, lay almost flat upon their faces, with their hands + upon the triggers of their rifles. + </p> + <p> + Braxton Wyatt and his band of nearly threescore, Indians and Tories in + about equal numbers, were passing. Wyatt walked at the head. Despite his + youth, he had acquired an air of command, and he seemed a fit leader for + such a crew. He wore a faded royal uniform, and, while a small sword hung + at his side, he also carried a rifle on his shoulder. Close behind him was + the swart and squat Tory, Coleman, and then came Indians and Tories + together. + </p> + <p> + The watchful eyes of Henry saw three fresh scalps hanging from as many + belts, and the finger that lay upon the trigger of his rifle fairly ached + to press it. What an opportunity this would be if the twelve were only + forty, or even thirty! With the advantage of surprise they might hope to + annihilate this band which had won such hate for itself on the border. But + twelve were not enough and twelve such lives could not be spared at a time + when the army needed them most. + </p> + <p> + Henry pressed his teeth firmly together in order to keep down his + disappointment by a mere physical act if possible. He happened to look at + Shif'less Sol, and saw that his teeth were pressed together in the same + manner. It is probable that like feelings swayed every one of the twelve, + but they were so still in the brushwood that no Iroquois heard grass or + leaf rustle. Thus the twelve watched the sixty pass, and after they were + gone, Henry, Shif'less Sol, and Tim Murphy followed for several miles. + They saw Wyatt proceed toward the Chemung River, and as they approached + the stream they beheld signs of fortifications. It was now nearly + daylight, and, as Indians were everywhere, they turned back. But they were + convinced that the enemy meant to fight on the Chemung. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0020" id="link2HCH0020"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XX. A GLOOMY COUNCIL + </h2> + <p> + The next night after Henry Ware and his comrades lay in the brushwood and + saw Braxton Wyatt and his band pass, a number of men, famous or infamous + in their day, were gathered around a low camp fire on the crest of a small + hill. The most distinguished of them all in looks was a young Indian chief + of great height and magnificent build, with a noble and impressive + countenance. He wore nothing of civilized attire, the nearest approach to + it being the rich dark-blue blanket that was flung gracefully over his + right shoulder. It was none other than the great Wyandot chief, + Timmendiquas, saying little, and listening without expression to the words + of the others. + </p> + <p> + Near Timmendiquas sat Thayendanegea, dressed as usual in his mixture of + savage and civilized costume, and about him were other famous Indian + chiefs, The Corn Planter, Red jacket, Hiokatoo, Sangerachte, Little Beard, + a young Seneca renowned for ferocity, and others. + </p> + <p> + On the other side of the fire sat the white men: the young Sir John + Johnson, who, a prisoner to the Colonials, had broken his oath of + neutrality, the condition of his release, and then, fleeing to Canada, had + returned to wage bloody war on the settlements; his brother-in-law, + Colonel Guy Johnson; the swart and squat John Butler of Wyoming infamy; + his son, Walter Butler, of the pallid face, thin lips, and cruel heart; + the Canadian Captain MacDonald; Braxton Wyatt; his lieutenant, the dark + Tory, Coleman; and some others who had helped to ravage their former land. + </p> + <p> + Sir John Johnson, a tall man with blue eyes set close together, wore the + handsome uniform of his Royal Greens; he had committed many dark deeds or + permitted them to be done by men under his command, and he had secured the + opportunity only through his broken oath, but he had lost greatly. The + vast estates of his father, Sir William Johnson, were being torn from him, + and perhaps he saw, even then, that in return for what he had done he + would lose all and become an exile from the country in which he was born. + </p> + <p> + It was not a cheerful council. There was no exultation as after Wyoming + and Cherry Valley and the Minisink and other places. Sir John bit his lip + uneasily, and his brother-in-law, resting his hand on his knee, stared + gloomily at the fire. The two Butlers were silent, and the dark face of + Thayendanegea was overcast. + </p> + <p> + A little distance before these men was a breastwork about half a mile + long, connecting with a bend of the river in such a manner that an enemy + could attack only in front and on one flank, that flank itself being + approached only by the ascent of a steep ridge which ran parallel to the + river. The ground about the camp was covered with pine and scrub oaks. + Many others had been cut down and added to the breastwork. A deep brook + ran at the foot of the hill on which the leaders sat. About the slopes of + this hill and another, a little distance away, sat hundreds of Indian + warriors, all in their war paint, and other hundreds of their white + allies, conspicuous among them Johnson's Royal Greens and Butler's + Rangers. These men made but little noise now. They were resting and + waiting. + </p> + <p> + Thayendanegea was the first to break the silence in the group at the fire. + He turned his dark face to Sir John Johnson and said in his excellent + English: “The king promised us that if we would take up arms for him + against the Yankees, he would send a great army, many thousands, to help + us. We believed him, and we took up the hatchet for him. We fought in the + dark and the storm with Herkimer at the Oriskany, and many of our warriors + fell. But we did not sulk in our lodges. We have ravaged and driven in the + whole American border along a line of hundreds of miles. Now the Congress + sends an army to attack us, to avenge what we have done, and the great + forces of the king are not here. I have been across the sea; I have seen + the mighty city of London and its people as numerous as the blades of + grass. Why has not the king kept his promise and sent men enough to save + the Iroquois?” + </p> + <p> + Sir John Johnson and Thayendanegea were good friends, but the soul of the + great Mohawk chief was deeply stirred. His penetrating mind saw the + uplifted hand about to strike-and the target was his own people. His tone + became bitterly sarcastic as he spoke, and when he ceased he looked + directly at the baronet in a manner that showed a reply must be given. Sir + John moved uneasily, but he spoke at last. + </p> + <p> + “Much that you say is true, Thayendanegea,” he admitted, “but the king has + many things to do. The war is spread over a vast area, and he must keep + his largest armies in the East. But the Royal Greens, the Rangers, and all + others whom we can raise, even in Canada, are here to help you. In the + coming battle your fortunes are our fortunes.” + </p> + <p> + Thayendanegea nodded, but he was not yet appeased. His glance fell upon + the two Butlers, father and son, and he frowned. + </p> + <p> + “There are many in England itself,” he said, “who wish us harm, and who + perhaps have kept us from receiving some of the help that we ought to + have. They speak of Wyoming and Cherry Valley, of the torture and of the + slaughter of women and children, and they say that war must not be carried + on in such a way. But there are some among us who are more savage than the + savages themselves, as they call us. It was you, John Butler, who led at + Wyoming, and it was you, Walter Butler, who allowed the women and children + to be killed at Cherry Valley, and more would have been slain there had I + not, come up in time.” + </p> + <p> + The dark face of “Indian” Butler grew darker, and the pallid face of his + son grew more pallid. Both were angry, and at the same time a little + afraid. + </p> + <p> + “We won at Wyoming in fair battle,” said the elder Butler. + </p> + <p> + “But afterwards?” said Thayendanegea. + </p> + <p> + The man was silent. + </p> + <p> + “It is these two places that have so aroused the Bostonians against us,” + continued Thayendanegea. “It is because of them that the commander of the + Bostonians has sent a great army, and the Long House is threatened with + destruction.” + </p> + <p> + “My son and I have fought for our common cause,” said “Indian” Butler, the + blood flushing through his swarthy face. + </p> + <p> + Sir John Johnson interfered. + </p> + <p> + “We have admitted, Joseph, the danger to the Iroquois,” he said, calling + the chieftain familiarly by his first Christian name, “but I and my + brother-in-law and Colonel Butler and Captain Butler have already lost + though we may regain. And with this strong position and the aid of ambush + it is likely that we can defeat the rebels.” + </p> + <p> + The eyes of Thayendanegea brightened as he looked at the long embankment, + the trees, and the dark forms of the warriors scattered numerously here + and there. + </p> + <p> + “You may be right, Sir John,” he said; “yes, I think you are right, and by + all the gods, red and white, we shall see. I wish to fight here, because + this is the best place in which to meet the Bostonians. What say you, + Timmendiquas, sworn brother of mine, great warrior and great chief of the + Wyandots, the bravest of all the western nations?” + </p> + <p> + The eye of Timmendiquas expressed little, but his voice was sonorous, and + his words were such as Thayendanegea wished to hear. + </p> + <p> + “If we fight—and we must fight—this is the place in which to + meet the white army,” he said. “The Wyandots are here to help the + Iroquois, as the Iroquois would go to help them. The Manitou of the + Wyandots, the Aieroski of the Iroquois, alone knows the end.” + </p> + <p> + He spoke with the utmost gravity, and after his brief reply he said no + more. All regarded him with respect and admiration. Even Braxton Wyatt + felt that it was a noble deed to remain and face destruction for the sake + of tribes not his own. + </p> + <p> + Sir John Johnson turned to Braxton Wyatt, who had sat all the while in + silence. + </p> + <p> + “You have examined the evening's advance, Wyatt,” he said. “What further + information can you give us?” + </p> + <p> + “We shall certainly be attacked to-morrow,” replied Wyatt, “and the + American army is advancing cautiously. It has out strong flanking parties, + and it is preceded by the scouts, those Kentuckians whom I know and have + met often, Murphy, Elerson, Heemskerk, and the others.” + </p> + <p> + “If we could only lead them into an ambush,” said Sir John. “Any kind of + troops, even the best of regulars, will give way before an unseen foe + pouring a deadly fire upon them from the deep woods. Then they magnify the + enemy tenfold.” + </p> + <p> + “It is so,” said the fierce old Seneca chief, Hiokatoo. “When we killed + Braddock and all his men, they thought that ten warriors stood in the + moccasins of only one.” + </p> + <p> + Sir John frowned. He did not like this allusion to the time when the + Iroquois fought against the English, and inflicted on them a great defeat. + But he feared to rebuke the old chief. Hiokatoo and the Senecas were too + important. + </p> + <p> + “There ought to be a chance yet for an ambuscade,” he said. “The foliage + is still thick and heavy, and Sullivan, their general, is not used to + forest warfare. What say you to this, Wyatt?” + </p> + <p> + Wyatt shook his head. He knew the caliber of the five from Kentucky, and + he had little hope of such good fortune. + </p> + <p> + “They have learned from many lessons,” he replied, “and their scouts are + the best. Moreover, they will attempt anything.” + </p> + <p> + They relapsed into silence again, and the sharp eyes of the renegade roved + about the dark circle of trees and warriors that inclosed them. Presently + he saw something that caused him to rise and walk a little distance from + the fire. Although his eye suspected and his mind confirmed, Braxton Wyatt + could not believe that it was true. It was incredible. No one, be he ever + so daring, would dare such a thing. But the figure down there among the + trees, passing about among the warriors, many of whom did not know one + another, certainly looked familiar, despite the Indian paint and garb. + Only that of Timmendiquas could rival it in height and nobility. These + were facts that could not be hidden by any disguise. + </p> + <p> + “What is it, Wyatt?” asked Sir John. “What do you see? Why do you look so + startled?” + </p> + <p> + Wyatt sought to reply calmly. + </p> + <p> + “There is a warrior among those trees over there whom I have not seen here + before,” he replied, “he is as tall and as powerful as Timmendiquas, and + there is only one such. There is a spy among us, and it is Henry Ware.” + </p> + <p> + He snatched a pistol from his belt, ran forward, and fired at the flitting + figure, which was gone in an instant among the trees and the warriors. + </p> + <p> + “What do you say?” exclaimed Thayendanegea, as he ran forward, “a spy, and + you know him to be such!” + </p> + <p> + “Yes, he is the worst of them all,” replied Wyatt. “I know him. I could + not mistake him. But he has dared too much. He cannot get away.” + </p> + <p> + The great camp was now in an uproar. The tall figure was seen here and + there, always to vanish quickly. Twenty shots were fired at it. None hit. + Many more would have been fired, but the camp was too much crowded to take + such a risk. Every moment the tumult and confusion increased, but + Thayendanegea quickly posted warriors on the embankment and the flanks, to + prevent the escape of the fugitive in any of those directions. + </p> + <p> + But the tall figure did not appear at either embankment or flank. It was + next seen near the river, when a young warrior, striving to strike with a + tomahawk, was dashed to the earth with great force. The next instant the + figure leaped far out into the stream. The moonlight glimmered an instant + on the bare head, while bullets the next moment pattered on the water + where it had been. Then, with a few powerful strokes, the stranger + reclaimed the land, sprang upon the shore, and darted into the woods with + more vain bullets flying about him. But he sent back a shout of irony and + triumph that made the chiefs and Tories standing on the bank bite their + lips in anger. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0021" id="link2HCH0021"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XXI. BATTLE OF THE CHEMUNG + </h2> + <p> + Paul had been sleeping heavily, and the sharp, pealing notes of a trumpet + awoke him at the sunburst of a brilliant morning. Henry was standing + beside him, showing no fatigue from the night's excitement, danger, and + escape, but his face was flushed and his eyes sparkled. + </p> + <p> + “Up, Paul! Up!” he cried. “We know the enemy's position, and we will be in + battle before another sun sets.” + </p> + <p> + Paul was awake in an instant, and the second instant he was on his feet, + rifle in hand, and heart thrilling for the great attack. He, like all the + others, had slept on such a night fully dressed. Shif'less Sol, Long Jim, + Silent Tom, Heemskerk, and the rest were by the side of him, and all about + them rose the sounds of an army going into battle, commands sharp and + short, the rolling of cannon wheels, the metallic rattle of bayonets, the + clink of bullets poured into the pouches, and the hum of men talking in + half-finished sentences. + </p> + <p> + It was to all the five a vast and stirring scene. It was the first time + that they had ever beheld a large and regular army going into action, and + they were a part of it, a part by no means unimportant. It was Henry, with + his consummate skill and daring, who had uncovered the position of the + enemy, and now, without snatching a moment's sleep, he was ready to lead + where the fray might be thickest. + </p> + <p> + The brief breakfast finished, the trumpet pealed forth again, and the army + began to move through the thick forest. A light wind, crisp with the air + of early autumn, blew, and the leaves rustled. The sun, swinging upward in + the east, poured down a flood of brilliant rays that lighted up + everything, the buff and blue uniforms, the cannon, the rifles, the + bayonets, and the forest, still heavy with foliage. + </p> + <p> + “Now! now!” thought every one of the five, “we begin the vengeance for + Wyoming!” + </p> + <p> + The scouts were well in front, searching everywhere among the thickets for + the Indian sharpshooters, who could scorch so terribly. As Braxton Wyatt + had truly said, these scouts were the best in the world. Nothing could + escape the trained eyes of Henry Ware and his comrades, and those of + Murphy, Ellerson, and the others, while off on either flank of the army + heavy detachments guarded against any surprise or turning movement. They + saw no Indian sign in the woods. There was yet a deep silence in front of + them, and the sun, rising higher, poured its golden light down upon the + army in such an intense, vivid flood that rifle barrels and bayonets gave + back a metallic gleam. All around them the deep woods swayed and rustled + before the light breeze, and now and then they caught glimpses of the + river, its surface now gold, then silver, under the shining sun. + </p> + <p> + Henry's heart swelled as he advanced. He was not revengeful, but he had + seen so much of savage atrocity in the last year that he could not keep + down the desire to see punishment. It is only those in sheltered homes who + can forgive the tomahawk and the stake. Now he was the very first of the + scouts, although his comrades and a dozen others were close behind him. + </p> + <p> + The scouts went so far forward that the army was hidden from them by the + forest, although they could yet hear the clank of arms and the sound of + commands. + </p> + <p> + Henry knew the ground thoroughly. He knew where the embankment ran, and he + knew, too, that the Iroquois had dug pits, marked by timber. They were not + far ahead, and the scouts now proceeded very slowly, examining every tree + and clump of bushes to see whether a lurking enemy was hidden there. The + silence endured longer than he had thought. Nothing could be seen in front + save the waving forest. + </p> + <p> + Henry stopped suddenly. He caught a glimpse of a brown shoulder's edge + showing from behind a tree, and at his signal all the scouts sank to the + ground. + </p> + <p> + The savage fired, but the bullet, the first of the battle, whistled over + their heads. The sharp crack, sounding triply loud at such a time, came + back from the forest in many echoes, and a light puff of smoke arose. + Quick as a flash, before the brown shoulder and body exposed to take aim + could be withdrawn, Tom Ross fired, and the Mohawk fell, uttering his + death yell. The Iroquois in the woods took up the cry, pouring forth a war + whoop, fierce, long drawn, the most terrible of human sounds, and before + it died, their brethren behind the embankment repeated it in tremendous + volume from hundreds of throats. It was a shout that had often appalled + the bravest, but the little band of scouts were not afraid. When its last + echo died they sent forth a fierce, defiant note of their own, and, + crawling forward, began to send in their bullets. + </p> + <p> + The woods in front of them swarmed with the Indian skirmishers, who + replied to the scouts, and the fire ran along a long line through the + undergrowth. Flashes of flames appeared, puffs of smoke arose and, + uniting, hung over the trees. Bullets hissed. Twigs and bark fell, and now + and then a man, as they fought from tree to tree. Henry caught one glimpse + of a face that was white, that of Braxton Wyatt, and he sought a shot at + the renegade leader, but he could not get it. But the scouts pushed on, + and the Indian and Tory skirmishers dropped back. Then on the flanks they + began to hear the rattle of rifle fire. The wings of the army were in + action, but the main body still advanced without firing a shot. + </p> + <p> + The scouts could now see through the trees the embankments and rifle pits, + and they could also see the last of the Iroquois and Tory skirmishers + leaping over the earthworks and taking refuge with their army. Then they + turned back and saw the long line of their own army steadily advancing, + while the sounds of heavy firing still continued on both flanks. Henry + looked proudly at the unbroken array, the front of steel, and the cannon. + He felt prouder still when the general turned to him and said: + </p> + <p> + “You have done well, Mr. Ware; you have shown us exactly where the enemy + lies, and that will save us many men. Now bigger voices than those of the + rifles shall talk.” + </p> + <p> + The army stopped. The Indian position could be plainly seen. The crest of + the earthwork was lined with fierce, dark faces, and here and there among + the brown Iroquois were the green uniforms of the Royalists. + </p> + <p> + Henry saw both Thayendanegea and Timmendiquas, the plumes in their hair + waving aloft, and he felt sure that wherever they stood the battle would + be thickest. + </p> + <p> + The Americans were now pushing forward their cannon, six three-pounders + and two howitzers, the howitzers, firing five-and-a-half-inch shells, new + and terrifying missiles to the Indians. The guns were wheeled into + position, and the first howitzer was fired. It sent its great shell in a + curving line at and over the embankment, where it burst with a crash, + followed by a shout of mingled pain and awe. Then the second howitzer, + aimed well like the first, sent a shell almost to the same point, and a + like cry came back. + </p> + <p> + Shif'less Sol, watching the shots, jumped up and down in delight. + </p> + <p> + “That's the medicine!” he cried. “I wonder how you like that, you Butlers + an' Johnsons an' Wyatts an' Mohawks an' all the rest o' your scalp-taking + crew! Ah, thar goes another! This ain't any Wyomin'!” + </p> + <p> + The three-pounders also opened fire, and sent their balls squarely into + the rifle pits and the Indian camp. The Iroquois replied with a shower of + rifle bullets and a defiant war whoop, but the bullets fell short, and the + whoop hurt no one. + </p> + <p> + The artillery, eight pieces, was served with rapidity and precision, while + the riflemen, except on their flanks, where they were more closely + engaged, were ordered to hold their fire. The spectacle was to Henry and + his comrades panoramic in its effect. They watched the flashes of fire + from the mouths of the cannon, the flight of the great shells, and the + bank of smoke which soon began to lower like a cloud over the field. They + could picture to themselves what was going on beyond the earthwork, the + dead falling, the wounded limping away, earth and trees torn by shell and + shot. They even fancied that they could hear the voices of the great + chiefs, Thayendanegea and Timmendiquas, encouraging their men, and + striving to keep them in line against a fire not as deadly as rifle + bullets at close quarters, but more terrifying. + </p> + <p> + Presently a cloud of skirmishers issued once more from the Indian camp, + creeping among the trees and bushes, and seeking a chance to shoot down + the men at the guns. But sharp eyes were watching them. + </p> + <p> + “Come, boys,” exclaimed Henry. “Here's work for us now.” + </p> + <p> + He led the scouts and the best of the riflemen against the skirmishers, + who were soon driven in again. The artillery fire had never ceased for a + moment, the shells and balls passing over their heads. Their work done, + the sharpshooters fell back again, the gunners worked faster for a while, + and then at a command they ceased suddenly. Henry, Paul, and all the + others knew instinctively what was going to happen. They felt it in every + bone of them. The silence so sudden was full of meaning. + </p> + <p> + “Now!” Henry found himself exclaiming. Even at that moment the order was + given, and the whole army rushed forward, the smoke floating away for the + moment and the sun flashing off the bayonets. The five sprang up and + rushed on ahead. A sheet of flame burst from the embankment, and the rifle + pits sprang into fire. The five beard the bullets whizzing past them, and + the sudden cries of the wounded behind them, but they never ceased to rush + straight for the embankment. + </p> + <p> + It seemed to Henry that he ran forward through living fire. There was one + continuous flash from the earthwork, and a continuous flash replied. The + rifles were at work now, thousands of them, and they kept up an incessant + crash, while above them rose the unbroken thunder of the cannon. The + volume of smoke deepened, and it was shot through with the sharp, pungent + odor of burned gunpowder. + </p> + <p> + Henry fired his rifle and pistol, almost unconsciously reloaded, and fired + again, as he ran, and then noticed that the advance had never ceased. It + had not been checked even for a moment, and the bayonets of one of the + regiments glittered in the sun a straight line of steel. + </p> + <p> + Henry kept his gaze fixed upon a point where the earthwork was lowest. He + saw there the plumed head of Thayendanegea, and he intended to strike if + he could. He saw the Mohawk gesticulating and shouting to his men to stand + fast and drive back the charge. He believed even then, and he knew later, + that Thayendanegea and Timmendiquas were showing courage superior to that + of the Johnsons and Butters or any of their British and Canadian allies. + The two great chiefs still held their men in line, and the Iroquois did + not cease to send a stream of bullets from the earthwork. + </p> + <p> + Henry saw the brown faces and the embankment coming closer and closer. He + saw the face of Braxton Wyatt appear a moment, and he snapped his empty + pistol at it. But it was hidden the next instant behind others, and then + they were at the embankment. He saw the glowing faces of his comrades at + his side, the singular figure of Heemskerk revolving swiftly, and behind + them the line of bayonets closing in with the grimness of fate. + </p> + <p> + Henry leaped upon the earthwork. An Indian fired at him point blank, and + he swung heavily with his clubbed rifle. Then his comrades were by his + side, and they leaped down into the Indian camp. After them came the + riflemen, and then the line of bayonets. Even then the great Mohawk and + the great Wyandot shouted to their men to stand fast, although the Royal + Greens and the Rangers had begun to run, and the Johnsons, the Butlers, + McDonald, Wyatt, and the other white men were running with them. + </p> + <p> + Henry, with the memory of Wyoming and all the other dreadful things that + had come before his eyes, saw red. He was conscious of a terrible melee, + of striking again and again with his clubbed rifle, of fierce brown faces + before him, and of Timmendiquas and Thayedanegea rushing here and there, + shouting to their warriors, encouraging them, and exclaiming that the + battle was not lost. Beyond he saw the vanishing forms of the Royal Greens + and the Rangers in full flight. But the Wyandots and the best of the + Iroquois still stood fast until the pressure upon them became + overwhelming. When the line of bayonets approached their breasts they fell + back. Skilled in every detail of ambush, and a wonderful forest fighter, + the Indian could never stand the bayonet. Reluctantly Timmendiquas, + Thayendanegea and the Mohawks, Senecas, and Wyandots, who were most + strenuous in the conflict, gave ground. Yet the battlefield, with its + numerous trees, stumps, and inequalities, still favored them. They + retreated slowly, firing from every covert, sending a shower of bullets, + and now and then tittering the war whoop. + </p> + <p> + Henry heard a panting breath by his side. He looked around and saw the + face of Heemskerk, glowing red with zeal and exertion. + </p> + <p> + “The victory is won already!” said he. “Now to drive it home!” + </p> + <p> + “Come on,” cried Henry in return, “and we'll lead!” + </p> + <p> + A single glance showed him that none of his comrades had fallen. Long Jim + and Tom Ross had suffered slight wounds that they scarcely noticed, and + they and the whole group of scouts were just behind Henry. But they now + took breath, reloaded their rifles, and, throwing themselves down in + Indian fashion, opened a deadly fire upon their antagonists. Their bullets + searched all the thickets, drove out the Iroquois, and compelled them to + retreat anew. + </p> + <p> + The attack was now pressed with fresh vigor. In truth, with so much that + the bravest of the Indians at last yielded to panic. Thayendanegea and + Timmendiquas were carried away in the rush, and the white leaders of their + allies were already out of sight. On all sides the allied red and white + force was dissolving. Precipitate flight was saving the fugitives from a + greater loss in killed and wounded-it was usually Indian tactics to flee + with great speed when the battle began to go against them-but the people + of the Long House had suffered the greatest overthrow in their history, + and bitterness and despair were in the hearts of the Iroquois chiefs as + they fled. + </p> + <p> + The American army not only carried the center of the Indian camp, but the + heavy flanking parties closed in also, and the whole Indian army was + driven in at every point. The retreat was becoming a rout. A great, + confused conflict was going on. The rapid crackle of rifles mingled with + the shouts and war whoops of the combatants. Smoke floated everywhere. The + victorious army, animated by the memory of the countless cruelties that + had been practiced on the border, pushed harder and harder. The Iroquois + were driven back along the Chemung. It seemed that they might be hemmed in + against the river, but in their flight they came to a ford. Uttering their + cry of despair, “Oonali! Oonali!” a wail for a battle lost, they sprang + into the stream, many of them throwing away their rifles, tomahawks, and + blankets, and rushed for the other shore. But the Scouts and a body of + riflemen were after them. + </p> + <p> + Braxton Wyatt and his band appeared in the woods on the far shore, and + opened fire on the pursuers now in the stream. He alone among the white + men had the courage, or the desperation, to throw himself and his men in + the path of the pursuit. The riflemen in the water felt the bullets + pattering around them, and some were struck, but they did not stop. They + kept on for the bank, and their own men behind them opened a covering fire + over their heads. + </p> + <p> + Henry felt a great pulse leap in his throat at the sight of Braxton Wyatt + again. Nothing could have turned him back now. Shouting to the riflemen, + he led the charge through the water, and the bank's defenders were driven + back. Yet Wyatt, with his usual dexterity and prudence, escaped among the + thickets. + </p> + <p> + The battle now became only a series of detached combats. Little groups + seeking to make a stand here and there were soon swept away. Thayendanegea + and Timmendiquas raged and sought to gather together enough men for an + ambush, for anything that would sting the victors, but they were pushed + too hard and fast. A rally was always destroyed in the beginning, and the + chiefs themselves at last ran for their lives. The pursuit was continued + for a long time, not only by the vanguard, but the army itself moved + forward over the battlefield and deep into the forest on the trail of the + flying Iroquois. + </p> + <p> + The scouts continued the pursuit the longest, keeping a close watch, + nevertheless, against an ambush. Now and then they exchanged shots with a + band, but the Indians always fled quickly, and at last they stopped + because they could no longer find any resistance. They had been in action + or pursuit for many hours, and they were black with smoke, dust, and + sweat, but they were not yet conscious of any weariness. Heemskerk drew a + great red silk handkerchief from his pocket, and wiped his glowing face, + which was as red as the handkerchief. + </p> + <p> + “It's the best job that's been done in these parts for many a year,” he + said. “The Iroquois have always thought they were invincible, and now the + spell's been broke. If we only follow it up.” + </p> + <p> + “That's sure to be done,” said Henry. “I heard General Sullivan himself + say that his orders were to root up the whole Iroquois power.” + </p> + <p> + They returned slowly toward the main force, retracing their steps over the + path of battle. It was easy enough to follow it. They beheld a dead + warrior at every step, and at intervals were rifles, tomahawks, scalping + knives, blankets, and an occasional shot pouch or powder horn. Presently + they reached the main army, which was going into camp for the night. Many + camp fires were built, and the soldiers, happy in their victory, were + getting ready for supper. But there was no disorder. They had been told + already that they were to march again in the morning. + </p> + <p> + Henry, Paul, Tom, Jim, and Shif'less Sol went back over the field of + battle, where many of the dead still lay. Twilight was now coming, and it + was a somber sight. The earthwork, the thickets, and the trees were torn + by cannon balls. Some tents raised by the Tories lay in ruins, and the + earth was stained with many dark splotches. But the army had passed on, + and it was silent and desolate where so many men had fought. The twilight + drew swiftly on to night, and out of the forest came grewsome sounds. The + wolves, thick now in a region which the Iroquois had done so much to turn + into a wilderness, were learning welcome news, and they were telling it to + one another. By and by, as the night deepened, the five saw fiery eyes in + the thickets, and the long howls came again. + </p> + <p> + “It sounds like the dirge of the people of the Long House,” said Paul, + upon whose sensitive mind the scene made a deep impression. + </p> + <p> + The others nodded. At that moment they did not feel the flush of victory + in its full force. It was not in their nature to rejoice over a fallen + foe. Yet they knew the full value of the victory, and none of them could + wish any part of it undone. They returned slowly to the camp, and once + more they heard behind them the howl of the wolves as they invaded the + battlefield. + </p> + <p> + They were glad when they saw the cheerful lights of the camp fires + twinkling through the forest, and heard the voices of many men talking. + Heemskerk welcomed them there. + </p> + <p> + “Come, lads,” he said. “You must eat-you won't find out until you begin, + how hungry you are-and then you must sleep, because we march early + to-morrow, and we march fast.” + </p> + <p> + The Dutchman's words were true. They had not tasted food since morning; + they had never thought of it, but now, with the relaxation from battle, + they found themselves voraciously hungry. + </p> + <p> + “It's mighty good,” said Shif'less Sol, as they sat by a fire and ate + bread and meat and drank coffee, “but I'll say this for you, you old + ornery, long-legged Jim Hart, it ain't any better than the venison an' + bulffaler steaks that you've cooked fur us many a time.” + </p> + <p> + “An' that I'm likely to cook fur you many a time more,” said Long Jim + complacently. + </p> + <p> + “But it will be months before you have any chance at buffalo again, Jim,” + said Henry. “We are going on a long campaign through the Iroquois + country.” + </p> + <p> + “An' it's shore to be a dangerous one,” said Shif'less Sol. “Men like + warriors o' the Iroquois ain't goin' to give up with one fight. They'll be + hangin' on our flanks like wasps.” + </p> + <p> + “That's true,” said Henry, “but in my opinion the Iroquois are overthrown + forever. One defeat means more to them than a half dozen to us.” + </p> + <p> + They said little more, but by and by lay down to sleep before the fires. + They had toiled so long and so faithfully that the work of watching and + scouting that night could be intrusted to others. Yet Henry could not + sleep for a long time. The noises of the night interested him. He watched + the men going about, and the sentinels pacing back and forth around the + camp. The sounds died gradually as the men lay down and sank to sleep. The + fires which had formed a great core of light also sank, and the shadows + crept toward the camp. The figures of the pacing sentinels, rifle on + shoulder, gradually grew dusky. Henry's nerves, attuned so long to great + effort, slowly relaxed. Deep peace came over him, and his eyelids drooped, + the sounds in the camp sank to the lowest murmur, but just as he was + falling asleep there came from the battlefield behind then the far, faint + howl of a wolf, the dirge of the Iroquois. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0022" id="link2HCH0022"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XXII. LITTLE BEARD'S TOWN + </h2> + <p> + The trumpets called early the next morning, and the five rose, refreshed, + ready for new labors. The fires were already lighted, and breakfast was + cooking. Savory odors permeated the forest. But as soon as all had eaten, + the army marched, going northward and westward, intending to cut through + the very center of the Iroquois country. Orders had come from the great + commander that the power of the Six Nations, which had been so long such a + terrible scourge on the American frontier, must be annihilated. They must + be made strangers in their own country. Women and children were not to be + molested, but their towns must perish. + </p> + <p> + As Thayendanegea had said the night before the Battle of the Chemung, the + power beyond the seas that had urged the Iroquois to war on the border did + not save them. It could not. British and Tories alike had promised them + certain victory, and for a while it had seemed that the promises would + come true. But the tide had turned, and the Iroquois were fugitives in + their own country. + </p> + <p> + The army continued its march through the wilderness, the scouts in front + and heavy parties of riflemen on either flank. There was no chance for a + surprise. Henry and his comrades were aware that Indian bands still lurked + in the forest, and they had several narrow escapes from the bullets of + ambushed foes, but the progress of the army was irresistible. Nothing + could check it for a moment, however much the Indian and Tory chiefs might + plan. + </p> + <p> + They camped again that night in the forest, with a thorough ring of + sentinels posted against surprise, although there was little danger of the + latter, as the enemy could not, for the present at least, bring a + sufficient force into the field. But after the moon had risen, the five, + with Heemskerk, went ahead through the forest. The Iroquois town of + Kanawaholla lay just ahead, and the army would reach it on the morrow. It + was the intention of the scouts to see if it was still occupied. + </p> + <p> + It was near midnight when the little party drew near to Kanawaholla and + watched it from the shelter of the forest. Like most other Iroquois towns, + it contained wooden houses, and cultivated fields were about it. No smoke + rose from any of the chimneys, but the sharp eyes of the scouts saw loaded + figures departing through a great field of ripe and waving corn. It was + the last of the inhabitants, fleeing with what they could carry. Two or + three warriors might have been in that group of fugitives, but the scouts + made no attempt to pursue. They could not restrain a little feeling of + sympathy and pity, although a just retribution was coming. + </p> + <p> + “If the Iroquois had only stood neutral at the beginning of the war, as we + asked them,” said Heemskerk, “how much might have been spared to both + sides! Look! Those people are stopping for a moment.” + </p> + <p> + The burdened figures, perhaps a dozen, halted at the far edge of the corn + field. Henry and Paul readily imagined that they were taking a last look + at their town, and the feeling of pity and sympathy deepened, despite + Wyoming, Cherry Valley, and all the rest. But that feeling never extended + to the white allies of the Iroquois, whom Thayendanegea characterized in + word and in writing as “more savage than the savages themselves.” + </p> + <p> + The scouts waited an hour, and then entered the town. Not a soul was in + Kanawaholla. Some of the lighter things had been taken away, but that was + all. Most of the houses were in disorder, showing the signs of hasty + flight, but the town lay wholly at the mercy of the advancing army. Henry + and his comrades withdrew with the news, and the next day, when the troops + advanced, Kanawaholla was put to the torch. In an hour it was smoking + ruins, and then the crops and fruit trees were destroyed. + </p> + <p> + Leaving ruin behind, the army continued its march, treading the Iroquois + power under foot and laying waste the country. One after another the + Indian towns were destroyed, Catherinetown, Kendaia, Kanadesaga, + Shenanwaga, Skoiyase, Kanandaigua, Honeyoye, Kanaghsawa, Gathtsewarohare, + and others, forming a long roll, bearing the sounding Iroquois names. + Villages around Cayuga and other lakes were burned by detachments. The + smoke of perishing towns arose everywhere in the Iroquois country, while + the Iroquois themselves fled before the advancing army. They sent appeal + after appeal for help from those to whom they had given so much help, but + none came. + </p> + <p> + It was now deep autumn, and the nights grew cold. The forests blazed with + brilliant colors. The winds blew, leaves rustled and fell. The winter + would soon be at hand, and the Iroquois, so proud of what they had + achieved, would have to find what shelter they could in the forests or at + the British posts on the Canadian frontier. Thayendanegea was destined to + come again with bands of red men and white and inflict great loss, but the + power of the Six Nations was overthrown forever, after four centuries of + victory and glory. Henry, Paul, and the rest were all the time in the + thick of it. The army, as the autumn advanced, marched into the Genesee + Valley, destroying everything. Henry and Paul, as they lay on their + blankets one night, counted fires in three different directions, and every + one of the three marked a perishing Indian village. It was not a work in + which they took any delight; on the contrary, it often saddened them, but + they felt that it had to be done, and they could not shirk the task. + </p> + <p> + In October, Henry, despite his youth, took command of a body of scouts and + riflemen which beat up the ways, and skirmished in advance of the army. It + was a democratic little band, everyone saying what he pleased, but + yielding in the end to the authority of the leader. They were now far up + the Genesee toward the Great Lakes, and Henry formed the plan of advancing + ahead of the army on the great Seneca village known variously as the + Seneca Castle and Little Beard's Town, after its chief, a full match in + cruelty for the older Seneca chief, Hiokatoo. Several causes led to this + decision. It was reported that Thayendanegea, Timmendiquas, all the + Butlers and Johnsons, and Braxton Wyatt were there. While not likely to be + true about all, it was probably true about some of them, and a bold stroke + might effect much. + </p> + <p> + It is probable that Henry had Braxton Wyatt most in mind. The renegade was + in his element among the Indians and Tories, and he had developed great + abilities as a partisan, being skillfully seconded by the squat Tory, + Coleman. His reputation now was equal at least to that of Walter Butler, + and he had skirmished more than once with the vanguard of the army. + Growing in Henry's heart was a strong desire to match forces with him, and + it was quite probable that a swift advance might find him at the Seneca + Castle. + </p> + <p> + The riflemen took up their march on a brisk morning in late autumn. The + night had been clear and cold, with a touch of winter in it, and the + brilliant colors of the foliage had now turned to a solid brown. Whenever + the wind blew, the leaves fell in showers. The sky was a fleecy blue, but + over hills, valley, and forest hung a fine misty veil that is the mark of + Indian summer. The land was nowhere inhabited. They saw the cabin of + neither white man nor Indian. A desolation and a silence, brought by the + great struggle, hung over everything. Many discerning eyes among the + riflemen noted the beauty and fertility of the country, with its noble + forests and rich meadows. At times they caught glimpses of the river, a + clear stream sparkling under the sun. + </p> + <p> + “Makes me think o' some o' the country 'way down thar in Kentucky,” said + Shif'less Sol, “an' it seems to me I like one about ez well ez t'other. + Say, Henry, do you think we'll ever go back home? 'Pears to me that we're + always goin' farther an' farther away.” + </p> + <p> + Henry laughed. + </p> + <p> + “It's because circumstances have taken us by the hand and led us away, + Sol,” he replied. + </p> + <p> + “Then,” said the shiftless one with a resigned air, “I hope them same + circumstances will take me by both hands, an' lead me gently, but + strongly, back to a place whar thar is peace an' rest fur a lazy an' tired + man like me.” + </p> + <p> + “I think you'll have to endure a lot, until next spring at least,” said + Henry. + </p> + <p> + The shiftless one heaved a deep sigh, but his next words were wholly + irrelevant. + </p> + <p> + “S'pose we'll light on that thar Seneca Castle by tomorrow night?” he + asked. + </p> + <p> + “It seems to me that for a lazy and tired man you're extremely anxious for + a fight,” Henry replied. + </p> + <p> + “I try to be resigned,” said Shif'less Sol. But his eyes were sparkling + with the light of battle. + </p> + <p> + They went into camp that night in a dense forest, with the Seneca Castle + about ten miles ahead. Henry was quite sure that the Senecas to whom it + belonged had not yet abandoned it, and with the aid of the other tribes + might make a stand there. It was more than likely, too, that the Senecas + had sharpshooters and sentinels well to the south of their town, and it + behooved the riflemen to be extremely careful lest they run into a + hornet's nest. Hence they lighted no fires, despite a cold night wind that + searched them through until they wrapped themselves in their blankets. + </p> + <p> + The night settled down thick and dark, and the band lay close in the + thickets. Shif'less Sol was within a yard of Henry. He had observed his + young leader's face closely that day, and he had a mind of uncommon + penetration. + </p> + <p> + “Henry,” he whispered, “you're hopin' that you'll find Braxton Wyatt an' + his band at Little Beard's town?” + </p> + <p> + “That among other things,” replied Henry in a similar whisper. + </p> + <p> + “That first, and the others afterwards,” persisted the shiftless one. + </p> + <p> + “It may be so,” admitted Henry. + </p> + <p> + “I feel the same way you do,” said Shif'less Sol. “You see, we've knowed + Braxton Wyatt a long time, an' it seems strange that one who started out a + boy with you an' Paul could turn so black. An' think uv all the cruel + things that he's done an' helped to do. I ain't hidin' my feelin's. I'm + jest itchin' to git at him.” + </p> + <p> + “Yes,” said Henry, “I'd like for our band to have it out with his.” + </p> + <p> + Henry and Shif'less Sol, and in fact all of the five, slept that night, + because Henry wished to be strong and vigorous for the following night, in + view of an enterprise that he had in mind. The rosy Dutchman, Heemskerk, + was in command of the guard, and he revolved continually about the camp + with amazing ease, and with a footstep so light that it made no sound + whatever. Now and then he came back in the thicket and looked down at the + faces of the sleeping five from Kentucky. “Goot boys,” he murmured to + himself. “Brave boys, to stay here and help. May they go through all our + battles and take no harm. The goot and great God often watches over the + brave.” + </p> + <p> + Mynheer Cornelius Heemskerk, native of Holland, but devoted to the new + nation of which he had made himself a part, was a devout man, despite a + life of danger and hardship. The people of the woods do not lose faith, + and he looked up at the dark skies as if he found encouragement there. + Then he resumed his circle about the camp. He heard various noises-the + hoot of an owl, the long whine of a wolf, and twice the footsteps of deer + going down to the river to drink. But the sounds were all natural, made by + the animals to which they belonged, and Heemskerk knew it. Once or twice + he went farther into the forest, but he found nothing to indicate the + presence of a foe, and while he watched thus, and beat up the woods, the + night passed, eventless, away. + </p> + <p> + They went the next day much nearer to the Seneca Castle, and saw sure + indications that it was still inhabited, as the Iroquois evidently were + not aware of the swift advance of the riflemen. Henry had learned that + this was one of the largest and strongest of all the Iroquois towns, + containing between a hundred and two hundred wooden houses, and with a + population likely to be swollen greatly by fugitives from the Iroquois + towns already destroyed. The need of caution—great caution—was + borne in upon him, and he paid good heed. + </p> + <p> + The riflemen sought another covert in the deep forest, now about three + miles from Little Beard's Town, and lay there, while Henry, according to + his plan, went forth at night with Shif'less Sol and Tom Ross. He was + resolved to find out more about this important town, and his enterprise + was in full accord with his duties, chief among which was to save the + vanguard of the army from ambush. + </p> + <p> + When the complete darkness of night had come, the three left the covert, + and, after traveling a short distance through the forest, turned in toward + the river. As the town lay on or near the river, Henry thought they might + see some signs of Indian life on the stream, and from this they could + proceed to discoveries. + </p> + <p> + But when they first saw the river it was desolate. Not a canoe was moving + on its surface, and the three, keeping well in the undergrowth, followed + the bank toward the town. But the forest soon ceased, and they came upon a + great field, where the Senecas had raised corn, and where stalks, stripped + of their ears and browned by the autumn cold, were still standing. But all + the work of planting, tending, and reaping this great field, like all the + other work in all the Iroquois fields, had been done by the Iroquois + women, not by the warriors. + </p> + <p> + Beyond the field they saw fruit trees, and beyond these, faint lines of + smoke, indicating the position of the great Seneca Castle. The dry + cornstalks rustled mournfully as the wind blew across the field. + </p> + <p> + “The stalks will make a little shelter,” said Henry, “and we must cross + the field. We want to keep near the river.” + </p> + <p> + “Lead on,” said Shif'less Sol. + </p> + <p> + They took a diagonal course, walking swiftly among the stalks and bearing + back toward the river. They crossed the field without being observed, and + came into a thick fringe of trees and undergrowth along the river. They + moved cautiously in this shelter for a rod or two, and then the three, + without word from any one of them, stopped simultaneously. They heard in + the water the unmistakable ripple made by a paddle, and then the sound of + several more. They crept to the edge of the bank and crouched down among + the bushes. Then they saw a singular procession. + </p> + <p> + A half-dozen Iroquois canoes were moving slowly up the stream. They were + in single file, and the first canoe was the largest. But the aspect of the + little fleet was wholly different from that of an ordinary group of + Iroquois war canoes. It was dark, somber, and funereal, and in every + canoe, between the feet of the paddlers, lay a figure, stiff and + impassive, the body of a chief slain in battle. It had all the appearance + of a funeral procession, but the eyes of the three, as they roved over it, + fastened on a figure in the first canoe, and, used as they were to the + strange and curious, every one of them gave a start. + </p> + <p> + The figure was that of a woman, a wild and terrible creature, who half + sat, half crouched in the canoe, looking steadily downward. Her long black + hair fell in disordered masses from her uncovered head. She wore a + brilliant red dress with savage adornments, but it was stained and torn. + The woman's whole attitude expressed grief, anger, and despair. + </p> + <p> + “Queen Esther!” whispered Henry. The other two nodded. + </p> + <p> + So horrifying had been the impression made upon him by this woman at + Wyoming that he could not feel any pity for her now. The picture of the + great war tomahawk cleaving the heads of bound prisoners was still too + vivid. She had several sons, one or two of whom were slain in battle with + the colonists, and the body that lay in the boat may have been one of + them. Henry always believed that it was-but he still felt no pity. + </p> + <p> + As the file came nearer they heard her chanting a low song, and now she + raised her face and tore at her black hair. + </p> + <p> + “They're goin' to land,” whispered Shif'less Sol. + </p> + <p> + The head of the file was turned toward the shore, and, as it approached, a + group of warriors, led by Little Beard, the Seneca chief, appeared among + the trees, coming forward to meet them. The three in their covert crouched + closer, interested so intensely that they were prepared to brave the + danger in order to remain. But the absorption of the Iroquois in what they + were about to do favored the three scouts. + </p> + <p> + As the canoes touched the bank, Catharine Montour rose from her crouching + position and uttered a long, piercing wail, so full of grief, rage, and + despair that the three in the bushes shuddered. It was fiercer than the + cry of a wolf, and it came back from the dark forest in terrifying echoes. + </p> + <p> + “It's not a woman, but a fiend,” whispered Henry; and, as before, his + comrades nodded in assent. + </p> + <p> + The woman stood erect, a tall and stalwart figure, but the beauty that had + once caused her to be received in colonial capitals was long since gone. + Her white half of blood had been submerged years ago in her Indian half, + and there was nothing now about her to remind one of civilization or of + the French Governor General of Canada who was said to have been her + father. + </p> + <p> + The Iroquois stood respectfully before her. It was evident that she had + lost none of her power among the Six Nations, a power proceeding partly + from her force and partly from superstition. As the bodies were brought + ashore, one by one, and laid upon the ground, she uttered the long wailing + cry again and again, and the others repeated it in a sort of chorus. + </p> + <p> + When the bodies-and Henry was sure that they must all be those of + chiefs-were laid out, she tore her hair, sank down upon the ground, and + began a chant, which Tom Ross was afterwards able to interpret roughly to + the others. She sang: + </p> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + The white men have come with the cannon and bayonet, + Numerous as forest leaves the army has come. + Our warriors are driven like deer by the hunter, + Fallen is the League of the Ho-de-no-sau-nee! + + Our towns are burned and our fields uprooted, + Our people flee through the forest for their lives, + The king who promised to help us comes not. + Fallen is the League of the Ho-de-no-sau-nee! + + The great chiefs are slain and their bodies lie here. + No longer will they lead the warriors in battle; + No more will they drive the foe from the thicket. + Fallen is the League of the Ho-de-no-sau-nee! + + Scalps we have taken from all who hated us; + None, but feared us in the days of our glory. + But the cannon and bayonet have taken our country; + Fallen is the League of the Ho-de-no-sau-nee! +</pre> + <p> + She chanted many verses, but these were all that Tom Ross could ever + remember or translate. But every verse ended with the melancholy refrain: + “Fallen is the League of the Ho-de-no-sau-nee!” which the others also + repeated in chorus. Then the warriors lifted up the bodies, and they moved + in procession toward the town. The three watched them, but they did not + rise until the funeral train had reached the fruit trees. Then they stood + up, looked at one another, and breathed sighs of relief. + </p> + <p> + “I don't care ef I never see that woman ag'in,” said Shif'less Sol. “She + gives me the creeps. She must be a witch huntin' for blood. She is shore + to stir up the Iroquois in this town.” + </p> + <p> + “That's true,” said Henry, “but I mean to go nearer.” + </p> + <p> + “Wa'al,” said Tom Ross, “I reckon that if you mean it we mean it, too.” + </p> + <p> + “There are certainly Tories in the town,” said Henry, “and if we are seen + we can probably pass for them. I'm bound to find out what's here.” + </p> + <p> + “Still huntin' fur Braxton Wyatt,” said Shif'less Sol. + </p> + <p> + “I mean to know if he's here,” said Henry. + </p> + <p> + “Lead on,” said the shiftless one. + </p> + <p> + They followed in the path of the procession, which was now out of sight, + and entered the orchard. From that point they saw the houses and great + numbers of Indians, including squaws and children, gathered in the open + spaces, where the funeral train was passing. Queen Esther still stalked at + its head, but her chant was now taken up by many scores of voices, and the + volume of sound penetrated far in the night. Henry yet relied upon the + absorption of the Iroquois in this ceremonial to give him a chance for a + good look through the town, and he and his comrades advanced with + boldness. + </p> + <p> + They passed by many of the houses, all empty, as their occupants had gone + to join in the funeral lament, but they soon saw white men-a few of the + Royal Greens, and some of the Rangers, and other Tories, who were dressed + much like Henry and his comrades. One of them spoke to Shif'less Sol, who + nodded carelessly and passed by. The Tory seemed satisfied and went his + way. + </p> + <p> + “Takes us fur some o' the crowd that's come runnin' in here ahead o' the + army,” said the shiftless one. + </p> + <p> + Henry was noting with a careful eye the condition of the town. He saw that + no preparations for defense had been made, and there was no evidence that + any would be made. All was confusion and despair. Already some of the + squaws were fleeing, carrying heavy burdens. The three coupled caution + with boldness. If they met a Tory they merely exchanged a word or two, and + passed swiftly on. Henry, although he had seen enough to know that the + army could advance without hesitation, still pursued the quest. Shif'less + Sol was right. At the bottom of Henry's heart was a desire to know whether + Braxton Wyatt was in Little Beard's Town, a desire soon satisfied, as they + reached the great Council House, turned a corner of it, and met the + renegade face to face. + </p> + <p> + Wyatt was with his lieutenant, the squat Tory, Coleman, and he uttered a + cry when he saw the tall figure of the great youth. There was no light but + that of the moon, but he knew his foe in an instant. + </p> + <p> + “Henry Ware!” he cried, and snatched his pistol from his belt. + </p> + <p> + They were so close together that Henry did not have time to use a weapon. + Instinctively he struck out with his fist, catching Wyatt on the jaw, and + sending him down as if he had been shot. Shif'less Sol and Tom Ross ran + bodily over Coleman, hurling him down, and leaping across his prostrate + figure. Then they ran their utmost, knowing that their lives depended on + speed and skill. + </p> + <p> + They quickly put the Council House between them and their pursuers, and + darted away among the houses. Braxton Wyatt was stunned, but he speedily + regained his wits and his feet. + </p> + <p> + “It was the fellow Ware, spying among us again!” he cried to his + lieutenant, who, half dazed, was also struggling up. “Come, men! After + them! After them!” + </p> + <p> + A dozen men came at his call, and, led by the renegade, they began a + search among the houses. But it was hard to find the fugitives. The light + was not good, many flitting figures were about, and the frantic search + developed confusion. Other Tories were often mistaken for the three + scouts, and were overhauled, much to their disgust and that of the + overhaulers. Iroquois, drawn from the funeral ceremony, began to join in + the hunt, but Wyatt could give them little information. He had merely seen + an enemy, and then the enemy had gone. It was quite certain that this + enemy, or, rather, three of them, was still in the town. + </p> + <p> + Henry and his comrades were crafty. Trained by ambush and escape, flight + and pursuit, they practiced many wiles to deceive their pursuers. When + Wyatt and Coleman were hurled down they ran around the Council House, a + large and solid structure, and, finding a door on the opposite side and no + one there or in sight from that point, they entered it, closing the door + behind them. + </p> + <p> + They stood in almost complete darkness, although at length they made out + the log wall of the great, single room which constituted the Council + House. After that, with more accustomed eyes, they saw on the wall arms, + pipes, wampum, and hideous trophies, some with long hair and some with + short. The hair was usually blonde, and most of the scalps had been + stretched tight over little hoops. Henry clenched his fist in the + darkness. + </p> + <p> + “Mebbe we're walkin' into a trap here,” said Shif'less Sol. + </p> + <p> + “I don't think so,” said Henry. “At any rate they'd find us if we were + rushing about the village. Here we at least have a chance.” + </p> + <p> + At the far end of the Council House hung mats, woven of rushes, and the + three sat down behind them in the very heart of the Iroquois sanctuary. + Should anyone casually enter the Council House they would still be hidden. + They sat in Turkish fashion on the floor, close together and with their + rifles lying across their knees. A thin light filtered through a window + and threw pallid streaks on the floor, which they could see when they + peeped around the edge of the mats. But outside they heard very clearly + the clamor of the hunt as it swung to and fro in the village. Shif'less + Sol chuckled. It was very low, but it was a chuckle, nevertheless, and the + others heard. + </p> + <p> + “It's sorter takin' an advantage uv 'em,” said the shiftless one, “layin' + here in thar own church, so to speak, while they're ragin' an' tearin' up + the earth everywhar else lookin' fur us. Gives me a mighty snug feelin', + though, like the one you have when you're safe in a big log house, an' the + wind an' the hail an' the snow are beatin' outside.” + </p> + <p> + “You're shorely right, Sol,” said Tom Ross. + </p> + <p> + “Seems to me,” continued the irrepressible Sol, “that you did git in a + good lick at Braxton Wyatt, after all. Ain't he unhappy now, bitin' his + fingers an' pawin' the earth an' findin' nothin'? I feel real sorry, I do, + fur Braxton. It's hard fur a nice young feller to have to suffer sech + disappointments.” + </p> + <p> + Shif'less Sol chuckled again, and Henry was forced to smile in the + darkness. Shif'less Sol was not wholly wrong. It would be a bitter blow to + Braxton Wyatt. Moreover, it was pleasant where they sat. A hard floor was + soft to them, and as they leaned against the wall they could relax and + rest. + </p> + <p> + “What will our fellows out thar in the woods think?” asked Tom Ross. + </p> + <p> + “They won't have to think,” replied Henry. “They'll sit quiet as we're + doing and wait.” + </p> + <p> + The noise of the hunt went on for a long time outside. War whoops came + from different points of the village. There were shrill cries of women and + children, and the sound of many running feet. After a while it began to + sink, and soon after that they heard no more noises than those of people + preparing for flight. Henry felt sure that the town would be abandoned on + the morrow, but his desire to come to close quarters with Braxton Wyatt + was as strong as ever. It was certain that the army could not overtake + Wyatt's band, but he might match his own against it. He was thinking of + making the attempt to steal from the place when, to their great amazement, + they heard the door of the Council House open and shut, and then footsteps + inside. + </p> + <p> + Henry looked under the edge of the hanging mat and saw two dusky figures + near the window. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0023" id="link2HCH0023"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XXIII. THE FINAL FIGHT + </h2> + <p> + Shif'less Sol and Tom Ross were also looking under the mats, and the three + would have recognized those figures anywhere. The taller was Timmendiquas, + the other Thayendanegea. The thin light from the window fell upon their + faces, and Henry saw that both were sad. Haughty and proud they were + still, but each bore the look that comes only from continued defeat and + great disappointment. It is truth to say that the concealed three watched + them with a curiosity so intense that all thought of their own risk was + forgotten. To Henry, as well as his comrades, these two were the greatest + of all Indian chiefs. + </p> + <p> + The White Lightning of the Wyandots and the Joseph Brant of the Mohawks + stood for a space side by side, gazing out of the window, taking a last + look at the great Seneca Castle. It was Thayendanegea who spoke first, + using Wyandot, which Henry understood. + </p> + <p> + “Farewell, my brother, great chief of the Wyandots,” he said. “You have + come far with your warriors, and you have been by our side in battle. The + Six Nations owe you much. You have helped us in victory, and you have not + deserted us in defeat. You are the greatest of warriors, the boldest in + battle, and the most skillful.” + </p> + <p> + Timmendiquas made a deprecatory gesture, but Thayendanegea went on: + </p> + <p> + “I speak but the truth, great chief of the Wyandots. We owe you much, and + some day we may repay. Here the Bostonians crowd us hard, and the Mohawks + may yet fight by your side to save your own hunting grounds.” + </p> + <p> + “It is true,” said Timmendiquas. “There, too, we' must fight the + Americans.” + </p> + <p> + “Victory was long with us here,” said Thayendanegea, “but the rebels have + at last brought an army against us, and the king who persuaded us to make + war upon the Americans adds nothing to the help that he has given us + already. Our white allies were the first to run at the Chemung, and now + the Iroquois country, so large and so beautiful, is at the mercy of the + invader. We perish. In all the valleys our towns lie in ashes. The + American army will come to-morrow, and this, the great Seneca Castle, the + last of our strongholds, will also sink under the flames. I know not how + our people will live through the Winter that is yet to come. Aieroski has + turned his face from us.” + </p> + <p> + But Timmendiquas spoke words of courage and hope. + </p> + <p> + “The Six Nations will regain their country,” he said. “The great League of + the Ho-de-no-sau-nee, which has been victorious for so many generations, + cannot be destroyed. All the tribes from here to the Mississippi will + help, and will press down upon the settlements. I will return to stir them + anew, and the British posts will give us arms and ammunition.” + </p> + <p> + The light of defiance shone once more in the eyes of Thayendanegea. + </p> + <p> + “You raise my spirits again,” he said. “We flee now, but we shall come + back again. The Ho-de-no-saunee can never submit. We will ravage all their + settlements, and burn and destroy. We will make a wilderness where they + have been. The king and his men will yet give us more help.” + </p> + <p> + Part of his words came true, and the name of the raiding Thayendanegea was + long a terror, but the Iroquois, who had refused the requested neutrality, + had lost their Country forever, save such portions as the victor in the + end chose to offer to them. + </p> + <p> + “And now, as you and your Wyandots depart within the half hour, I give you + a last farewell,” said Thayendanegea. + </p> + <p> + The hands of the two great chiefs met in a clasp like that of the white + man, and then Timmendiquas abruptly left the Council House, shutting the + door behind him. Thayendanegea lingered a while at the window, and the + look of sadness returned to his face. Henry could read many of the + thoughts that were passing through the Mohawk's proud mind. + </p> + <p> + Thayendanegea was thinking of his great journey to London, of the power + and magnificence that he had seen, of the pride and glory of the Iroquois, + of the strong and numerous Tory faction led by Sir John Johnson, the half + brother of the children of Molly Brant, Thayendanegea's own sister, of the + Butlers and all the others who had said that the rebels would be easy to + conquer. He knew better now, he had long known better, ever since that + dreadful battle in the dark defile of the Oriskany, when the Palatine + Germans, with old Herkimer at their head, beat the Tories, the English, + and the Iroquois, and made the taking of Burgoyne possible. The Indian + chieftain was a statesman, and it may be that from this moment he saw that + the cause of both the Iroquois and their white allies was doomed. + Presently Thayendanegea left the window, walking slowly toward the door. + He paused there a moment or two, and then went out, closing it behind him, + as Timmendiquas had done. The three did not speak until several minutes + after he had gone. + </p> + <p> + “I don't believe,” said Henry, “that either of them thinks, despite their + brave words, that the Iroquois can ever win back again.” + </p> + <p> + “Serves 'em right,” said Tom Ross. “I remember what I saw at Wyoming.” + </p> + <p> + “Whether they kin do it or not,” said the practical Sol, “it's time for us + to git out o' here, an' go back to our men.” + </p> + <p> + “True words, Sol,” said Henry, “and we'll go.” + </p> + <p> + Examining first at the window and then through the door, opened slightly, + they saw that the Iroquois village bad become quiet. The preparations for + departure had probably ceased until morning. Forth stole the three, + passing swiftly among the houses, going, with silent foot toward the + orchard. An old squaw, carrying a bundle from a house, saw them, looked + sharply into their faces, and knew them to be white. She threw down her + bundle with a fierce, shrill scream, and ran, repeating the scream as she + ran. + </p> + <p> + Indians rushed out, and with them Braxton Wyatt and his band. Wyatt caught + a glimpse of a tall figure, with two others, one on each side, running + toward the orchard, and he knew it. Hate and the hope to capture or kill + swelled afresh. He put a whistle to his lip and blew shrilly. It was a + signal to his band, and they came from every point, leading the pursuit. + </p> + <p> + Henry heard the whistle, and he was quite sure that it was Wyatt who had + made the sound. A single glance backward confirmed him. He knew Wyatt's + figure as well as Wyatt knew his, and the dark mass with him was certainly + composed of his own men. The other Indians and Tories, in all likelihood, + would turn back soon, and that fact would give him the chance he wished. + </p> + <p> + They were clear of the town now, running lightly through the orchard, and + Shif'less Sol suggested that they enter the woods at once. + </p> + <p> + “We can soon dodge 'em thar in the dark,” he said. + </p> + <p> + “We don't want to dodge 'em,” said Henry. + </p> + <p> + The shiftless one was surprised, but when he glanced at Henry's face he + understood. + </p> + <p> + “You want to lead 'em on an' to a fight?” he said. + </p> + <p> + Henry nodded. + </p> + <p> + “Glad you thought uv it,” said Shif'less Sol. + </p> + <p> + They crossed the very corn field through which they had come, Braxton + Wyatt and his band in full cry after them. Several shots were fired, but + the three kept too far ahead for any sort of marksmanship, and they were + not touched. When they finally entered the woods they curved a little, and + then, keeping just far enough ahead to be within sight, but not close + enough for the bullets, Henry led them straight toward the camp of the + riflemen. As he approached, he fired his own rifle, and uttered the long + shout of the forest runner. He shouted a second time, and now Shif'less + Sol and Tom Ross joined in the chorus, their great cry penetrating far + through the woods. + </p> + <p> + Whether Braxton Wyatt or any of his mixed band of Indians and Tories + suspected the meaning of those great shouts Henry never knew, but the + pursuit came on with undiminished speed. There was a good silver moon now, + shedding much light, and he saw Wyatt still in the van, with his Tory + lieutenant close behind, and after them red men and white, spreading out + like a fan to inclose the fugitives in a trap. The blood leaped in his + veins. It was a tide of fierce joy. He had achieved both of the purposes + for which he had come. He had thoroughly scouted the Seneca Castle, and he + was about to come to close quarters with Braxton Wyatt and the band which + he had made such a terror through the valleys. + </p> + <p> + Shif'less Sol saw the face of his young comrade, and he was startled. He + had never before beheld it so stern, so resolute, and so pitiless. He + seemed to remember as one single, fearful picture all the ruthless and + terrible scenes of the last year. Henry uttered again that cry which was + at once a defiance and a signal, and from the forest ahead of him it was + answered, signal for signal. The riflemen were coming, Paul, Long Jim, and + Heemskerk at their head. They uttered a mighty cheer as they saw the + flying three, and their ranks opened to receive them. From the Indians and + Tories came the long whoop of challenge, and every one in either band knew + that the issue was now about to be settled by battle, and by battle alone. + They used all the tactics of the forest. Both sides instantly dropped down + among the trees and undergrowth, three or four hundred yards apart, and + for a few moments there was no sound save heavy breathing, heard only by + those who lay close by. Not a single human being would have been visible + to an ordinary eye there in the moonlight, which tipped boughs and bushes + with ghostly silver. Yet no area so small ever held a greater store of + resolution and deadly animosity. On one side were the riflemen, nearly + every one of whom had slaughtered kin to mourn, often wives and little + children, and on the other the Tories and Iroquois, about to lose their + country, and swayed by the utmost passions of hate and revenge. + </p> + <p> + “Spread out,” whispered Henry. “Don't give them a chance to flank us. You, + Sol, take ten men and go to the right, and you, Heemskerk, take ten and go + to the left.” + </p> + <p> + “It is well,” whispered Heemskerk. “You have a great head, Mynheer Henry.” + </p> + <p> + Each promptly obeyed, but the larger number of the riflemen remained in + the center, where Henry knelt, with Paul and Long Jim on one side of him, + and Silent Tom on the other. When he thought that the two flanking parties + had reached the right position, he uttered a low whistle, and back came + two low whistles, signals that all was ready. Then the line began its slow + advance, creeping forward from tree to tree and from bush to bush. Henry + raised himself up a little, but he could not yet see anything where the + hostile force lay hidden. They went a little farther, and then all lay + down again to look. + </p> + <p> + Tom Ross had not spoken a word, but none was more eager than he. He was + almost flat upon the ground, and he had been pulling himself along by a + sort of muscular action of his whole body. Now he was so still that he did + not seem to breathe. Yet his eyes, uncommonly eager now, were searching + the thickets ahead. They rested at last on a spot of brown showing through + some bushes, and, raising his rifle, he fired with sure aim. The Iroquois + uttered his death cry, sprang up convulsively, and then fell back prone. + Shots were fired in return, and a dozen riflemen replied to them. The + battle was joined. + </p> + <p> + They heard Braxton Wyatt's whistle, the challenging war cry of the + Iroquois, and then they fought in silence, save for the crack of the + rifles. The riflemen continued to advance in slow, creeping fashion, + always pressing the enemy. Every time they caught sight of a hostile face + or body they sent a bullet at it, and Wyatt's men did the same. The two + lines came closer, and all along each there were many sharp little jets of + fire and smoke. Some of the riflemen were wounded, and two were slain, + dying quietly and without interrupting their comrades, who continued to + press the combat, Henry always leading in the center, and Shif'less Sol + and Heemskerk on the flanks. + </p> + <p> + This battle so strange, in which faces were seen only for a moment, and + which was now without the sound of voices, continued without a moment's + cessation in the dark forest. The fury of the combatants increased as the + time went on, and neither side was yet victorious. Closer and closer came + the lines. Meanwhile dark clouds were piling in a bank in the southwest. + Slow thunder rumbled far away, and the sky was cut at intervals by + lightning. But the combatants did not notice the heralds of storm. Their + attention was only for each other. + </p> + <p> + It seemed to Henry that emotions and impulses in him had culminated. + Before him were the worst of all their foes, and his pitiless resolve was + not relaxed a particle. The thunder and the lightning, although he did not + notice them, seemed to act upon him as an incitement, and with low words + he continually urged those about him to push the battle. + </p> + <p> + Drops of rain fell, showing in the moonshine like beads of silver on + boughs and twigs, but by and by the smoke from the rifle fire, pressed + down by the heavy atmosphere, gathered among the trees, and the moon was + partly hidden. But file combat did not relax because of the obscurity. + Wandering Indians, hearing the firing, came to Wyatt's relief, but, + despite their aid, he was compelled to give ground. His were the most + desperate and hardened men, red and white, in all the allied forces, but + they were faced by sharpshooters better than themselves. Many of them were + already killed, others were wounded, and, although Wyatt and Coleman raged + and strove to hold them, they began to give back, and so hard pressed were + they that the Iroquois could not perform the sacred duty of carrying off + their dead. No one sought to carry away the Tories, who lay with the rain, + that had now begun to fall, beating upon them. + </p> + <p> + So much had the riflemen advanced that they came to the point where bodies + of their enemies lay. Again that fierce joy surged up in Henry's heart. + His friends and he were winning. But he wished to do more than win. This + band, if left alone, would merely flee from the Seneca Castle before the + advance of the army, and would still exist to ravage and slay elsewhere. + </p> + <p> + “Keep on, Tom! Keep on!” he cried to Ross and the others. “Never let them + rest!” + </p> + <p> + “We won't! We ain't dreamin' o' doin' sech a thing,” replied the + redoubtable one as he loaded and fired. “Thar, I got another!” + </p> + <p> + The Iroquois, yielding slowly at first, began now to give way faster. Some + sought to dart away to right or left, and bury themselves in the forest, + but they were caught by the flanking parties of Shif'less Sol and + Heemskerk, and driven back on the center. They could not retreat except + straight on the town, and the riflemen followed them step for step. The + moan of the distant thunder went on, and the soft rain fell, but the + deadly crackle of the rifles formed a sharper, insistent note that claimed + the whole attention of both combatants. + </p> + <p> + It was now the turn of the riflemen to receive help. Twenty or more scouts + and others abroad in the forest were called by the rifle fire, and went at + once into the battle. Then Wyatt was helped a second time by a band of + Senecas and Mohawks, but, despite all the aid, they could not withstand + the riflemen. Wyatt, black with fury and despair, shouted to them and + sometimes cursed or even struck at them, but the retreat could not be + stopped. Men fell fast. Every one of the riflemen was a sharpshooter, and + few bullets missed. + </p> + <p> + Wyatt was driven out of the forest and into the very corn field through + which Henry had passed. Here the retreat became faster, and, with shouts + of triumph, the riflemen followed after. Wyatt lost some men in the flight + through the field, but when he came to the orchard, having the advantage + of cover, he made another desperate stand. + </p> + <p> + But Shif'less Sol and Heemskerk took the band on the flanks, pouring in a + destructive fire, and Wyatt, Coleman, and a fourth of his band, all that + survived, broke into a run for the town. + </p> + <p> + The riflemen uttered shout after shout of triumph, and it was impossible + to restrain their pursuit. Henry would have stopped here, knowing the + danger of following into the town, especially when the army was near at + band with an irresistible force, but he could not stay them. He decided + then that if they would charge it must be done with the utmost fire and + spirit. + </p> + <p> + “On, men! On!” he cried. “Give them no chance to take cover.” + </p> + <p> + Shif'less Sol and Heemskerk wheeled in with the flanking parties, and the + riflemen, a solid mass now, increased the speed of pursuit. Wyatt and his + men had no chance to turn and fire, or even to reload. Bullets beat upon + them as they fled, and here perished nearly all of that savage band. + Wyatt, Coleman, and only a half dozen made good the town, where a portion + of the Iroquois who had not yet fled received them. But the exultant + riflemen did not stop even there. They were hot on the heels of Wyatt and + the fugitives, and attacked at once the Iroquois who came to their relief. + So fierce was their rush that these new forces were driven back at once. + Braxton Wyatt, Coleman, and a dozen more, seeing no other escape, fled to + a large log house used as a granary, threw themselves into it, barred the + doors heavily, and began to fire from the upper windows, small openings + usually closed with boards. Other Indians from the covert of house, tepee, + or tree, fired upon the assailants, and a fresh battle began in the town. + </p> + <p> + The riflemen, directed by their leaders, met the new situation promptly. + Fired upon from all sides, at least twenty rushed into a house some forty + yards from that of Braxton Wyatt. Others seized another house, while the + rest remained outside, sheltered by little outhouses, trees, or + inequalities of the earth, and maintained rapid sharpshooting in reply to + the Iroquois in the town or to Braxton Wyatt's men in the house. Now the + combat became fiercer than ever. The warriors uttered yells, and Wyatt's + men in the house sent forth defiant shouts. From another part of the town + came shrill cries of old squaws, urging on their fighting men. + </p> + <p> + It was now about four o'clock in the morning. The thunder and lightning + had ceased, but the soft rain was still falling. The Indians had lighted + fires some distance away. Several carried torches. Helped by these, and, + used so long to the night, the combatants saw distinctly. The five lay + behind a low embankment, and they paid their whole attention to the big + house that sheltered Wyatt and his men. On the sides and behind they were + protected by Heemskerk and others, who faced a coming swarm. + </p> + <p> + “Keep low, Paul,” said Henry, restraining his eager comrade. “Those + fellows in the house can shoot, and we don't want to lose you. There, + didn't I tell you!” + </p> + <p> + A bullet fired from the window passed through the top of Paul's cap, but + clipped only his hair. Before the flash from the window passed, Long Jim + fired in return, and something fell back inside. Bullets came from other + windows. Shif'less Sol fired, and a Seneca fell forward banging half out + of the window, his naked body a glistening brown in the firelight. But he + hung only a few seconds. Then he fell to the ground and lay still. The + five crouched low again, waiting a new opportunity. Behind them, and on + either side, they heard the crash of the new battle and challenging cries. + </p> + <p> + Braxton Wyatt, Coleman, four more Tories, and six Indians were still alive + in the strong log house. Two or three were wounded, but they scarcely + noticed it in the passion of conflict. The house was a veritable fortress, + and the renegade's hopes rose high as he heard the rifle fire from + different parts of the town. His own band had been annihilated by the + riflemen, led by Henry Ware, but he had a sanguine hope now that his + enemies had rushed into a trap. The Iroquois would turn back and destroy + them. + </p> + <p> + Wyatt and his comrades presented a repellent sight as they crouched in the + room and fired from the two little windows. His clothes and those of the + white men had been torn by bushes and briars in their flight, and their + faces had been raked, too, until they bled, but they had paid no attention + to such wounds, and the blood was mingled with sweat and powder smoke. The + Indians, naked to the waist, daubed with vermilion, and streaked, too, + with blood, crouched upon the floor, with the muz'zles of their rifles at + the windows, seeking something human to kill. One and all, red and white, + they were now raging savages, There was not one among them who did not + have some foul murder of woman or child to his credit. + </p> + <p> + Wyatt himself was mad for revenge. Every evil passion in him was up and + leaping. His eyes, more like those of a wild animal than a human being, + blazed out of a face, a mottled red and black. By the side of him the dark + Tory, Coleman, was driven by impulses fully as fierce. + </p> + <p> + “To think of it!” exclaimed Wyatt. “He led us directly into a trap, that + Ware! And here our band is destroyed! All the good men that we gathered + together, except these few, are killed!” + </p> + <p> + “But we may pay them back,” said Coleman. “We were in their trap, but now + they are in ours! Listen to that firing and the war whoop! There are + enough Iroquois yet in the town to kill every one of those rebels!” + </p> + <p> + “I hope so! I believe so!” exclaimed Wyatt. “Look out, Coleman! Ah, he's + pinked you! That's the one they call Shif'less Sol, and he's the best + sharpshooter of them all except Ware!” + </p> + <p> + Coleman had leaned forward a little in his anxiety to secure a good aim at + something. He had disclosed only a little of his face, but in an instant a + bullet had seared his forehead like the flaming stroke of a sword, passing + on and burying itself in the wall. Fresh blood dripped down over his face. + He tore a strip from the inside of his coat, bound it about his head, and + went on with the defense. + </p> + <p> + A Mohawk, frightfully painted, fired from the other window. Like a flash + came the return shot, and the Indian fell back in the room, stone dead, + with a bullet through his bead. + </p> + <p> + “That was Ware himself,” said Wyatt. “I told you he was the best shot of + them all. I give him that credit. But they're all good. Look out! There + goes another of our men! It was Ross who did that! I tell you, be careful! + Be careful!” + </p> + <p> + It was an Onondaga who fell this time, and he lay with his head on the + window sill until another Indian pulled him inside. A minute later a Tory, + who peeped guardedly for a shot, received a bullet through his head, and + sank down on the floor. A sort of terror spread among the others. What + could they do in the face of such terrible sharpshooting? It was uncanny, + almost superhuman, and they looked stupidly at one another. Smoke from + their own firing had gathered in the room, and it formed a ghastly veil + about their faces. They heard the crash of the rifles outside from every + point, but no help came to them. + </p> + <p> + “We're bound to do something!” exclaimed Wyatt. “Here you, Jones, stick up + the edge of your cap, and when they fire at it I'll put a bullet in the + man who pulls the trigger.” + </p> + <p> + Jones thrust up his cap, but they knew too much out there to be taken in + by an old trick. The cap remained unhurt, but when Jones in his eagerness + thrust it higher until he exposed his arm, his wrist was smashed in an + instant by a bullet, and he fell back with a howl of pain. Wyatt swore and + bit his lips savagely. He and all of them began to fear that they were in + another and tighter trap, one from which there was no escape unless the + Iroquois outside drove off the riflemen, and of that they could as yet see + no sign. The sharpshooters held their place behind the embankment and the + little outhouse, and so little as a finger, even, at the windows became a + sure mark for their terrible bullets. A Seneca, seeking a new trial for a + shot, received a bullet through the shoulder, and a Tory who followed him + in the effort was slain outright. + </p> + <p> + The light hitherto had been from the fires, but now the dawn was coming. + Pale gray beams fell over the town, and then deepened into red and yellow. + The beams reached the room where the beleaguered remains of Wyatt's band + fought, but, mingling with the smoke, they gave a new and more ghastly + tint to the desperate faces. + </p> + <p> + “We've got to fight!” exclaimed Wyatt. “We can't sit here and be taken + like beasts in a trap! Suppose we unbar the doors below and make a rush + for it?” + </p> + <p> + Coleman shook his head. “Every one of us would be killed within twenty + yards,” he said. + </p> + <p> + “Then the Iroquois must come back,” cried Wyatt. “Where is Joe Brant? + Where is Timmendiquas, and where is that coward, Sir John Johnson? Will + they come?” + </p> + <p> + “They won't come,” said Coleman. + </p> + <p> + They lay still awhile, listening to the firing in the town, which swayed + hither and thither. The smoke in the room thinned somewhat, and the + daylight broadened and deepened. As a desperate resort they resumed fire + from the windows, but three more of their number were slain, and, bitter + with chagrin, they crouched once more on the floor out of range. Wyatt + looked at the figures of the living and the dead. Savage despair tore at + his heart again, and his hatred of those who bad done this increased. It + was being served out to him and his band as they had served it out to many + a defenseless family in the beautiful valleys of the border. Despite the + sharpshooters, he took another look at the window, but kept so far back + that there was no chance for a shot. + </p> + <p> + “Two of them are slipping away,” he exclaimed. “They are Ross and the one + they call Long Jim! I wish I dared a shot! Now they're gone!” + </p> + <p> + They lay again in silence for a time. There was still firing in the town, + and now and then they heard shouts. Wyatt looked at his lieutenant, and + his lieutenant looked at him. + </p> + <p> + “Yours is the ugliest face I ever saw,” said Wyatt. + </p> + <p> + “I can say the same of yours-as I can't see mine,” said Coleman. + </p> + <p> + The two gazed once more at the hideous, streaked, and grimed faces of each + other, and then laughed wildly. A wounded Seneca sitting with his back + against the wall began to chant a low, wailing death song. + </p> + <p> + “Shut up! Stop that infernal noise!” exclaimed Wyatt savagely. + </p> + <p> + The Seneca stared at him with fixed, glassy eyes and continued his chant. + Wyatt turned away, but that song was upon his nerves. He knew that + everything was lost. The main force of the Iroquois would not come back to + his help, and Henry Ware would triumph. He sat down on the floor, and + muttered fierce words under his breath. + </p> + <p> + “Hark!” suddenly exclaimed Coleman. “What is that?” + </p> + <p> + A low crackling sound came to their ears, and both recognized it + instantly. It was the sound of flames eating rapidly into wood, and of + that wood was built the house they now held. Even as they listened they + could hear the flames leap and roar into new and larger life. + </p> + <p> + “This is, what those two, Ross and Hart, were up to!” exclaimed Wyatt. + “We're not only trapped, but we're to be burned alive in our trap!” + </p> + <p> + “Not I,” said Coleman, “I'm goin' to make a rush for it.” + </p> + <p> + “It's the only thing to be done,” said Wyatt. “Come, all of you that are + left!” + </p> + <p> + The scanty survivors gathered around him, all but the wounded Seneca, who + sat unmoved against the wall and continued to chant his death chant. Wyatt + glanced at him, but said nothing. Then he and the others rushed down the + stairs. + </p> + <p> + The lower room was filled with smoke, and outside the flames were roaring. + They unbarred the door and sprang into the open air. A shower of bullets + met them. The Tory, Coleman, uttered a choking cry, threw up his arms, and + fell back in the doorway. Braxton Wyatt seized one of the smaller men, + and, holding him a moment or two before him to receive the fire of his + foe, dashed for the corner of the blazing building. The man whom he held + was slain, and his own shoulder was grazed twice, but he made the corner. + In an instant he put the burning building between him and his pursuers, + and ran as he had never run before in all his life, deadly fear putting + wings on his heels. As he ran he heard the dull boom of a cannon, and he + knew that the American army was entering the Seneca Castle. Ahead of him + he saw the last of the Indians fleeing for the woods, and behind him the + burning house crashed and fell in amid leaping flames and sparks in + myriads. He alone had escaped from the house. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0024" id="link2HCH0024"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XXIV. DOWN THE OHIO + </h2> + <p> + “We didn't get Wyatt,” said Henry, “but we did pretty well, nevertheless.” + </p> + <p> + “That's so,” said Shif'less Sol. “Thar's nothin' left o' his band but + hisself, an' I ain't feelin' any sorrow 'cause I helped to do it. I guess + we've saved the lives of a good many innocent people with this morning's + work.” + </p> + <p> + “Never a doubt of it,” said Henry, “and here's the army now finishing up + the task.” + </p> + <p> + The soldiers were setting fire to the town in many places, and in two + hours the great Seneca Castle was wholly destroyed. The five took no part + in this, but rested after their battles and labors. One or two had been + grazed by bullets, but the wounds were too trifling to be noticed. As they + rested, they watched the fire, which was an immense one, fed by so much + material. The blaze could be seen for many miles, and the ashes drifted + over all the forest beyond the fields. + </p> + <p> + All the while the Iroquois were fleeing through the wilderness to the + British posts and the country beyond the lakes, whence their allies had + already preceded them. The coals of Little Beard's Town smoldered for two + or three days, and then the army turned back, retracing its steps down the + Genesee. + </p> + <p> + Henry and his comrades felt that their work in the East was finished. + Kentucky was calling to them. They had no doubt that Braxton Wyatt, now + that his band was destroyed, would return there, and he would surely be + plotting more danger. It was their part to meet and defeat him. They + wished, too, to see again the valley, the river, and the village in which + their people had made their home, and they wished yet more to look upon + the faces of these people. + </p> + <p> + They left the army, went southward with Heemskerk and some others of the + riflemen, but at the Susquehanna parted with the gallant Dutchman and his + comrades. + </p> + <p> + “It is good to me to have known you, my brave friends,” said Heemskerk, + “and I say good-by with sorrow to you, Mynheer Henry; to you, Mynheer + Paul; to you, Mynheer Sol; to you, Mynheer Tom; and to you, Mynheer Jim.” + </p> + <p> + He wrung their hands one by one, and then revolved swiftly away to hide + his emotion. + </p> + <p> + The five, rifles on their shoulders, started through the forest. When they + looked back they saw Cornelius Heemskerk waving his hand to them. They + waved in return, and then disappeared in the forest. It was a long journey + to Pittsburgh, but they found it a pleasant one. It was yet deep autumn on + the Pennsylvania hills, and the forest was glowing with scarlet and gold. + The air was the very wine of life, and when they needed game it was there + to be shot. As the cold weather hung off, they did not hurry, and they + enjoyed the peace of the forest. They realized now that after their vast + labors, hardships, and dangers, they needed a great rest, and they took + it. It was singular, and perhaps not so singular, how their minds turned + from battle, pursuit, and escape, to gentle things. A little brook or + fountain pleased them. They admired the magnificent colors of the foliage, + and lingered over the views from the low mountains. Doe and fawn fled from + them, but without cause. At night they built splendid fires, and sat + before them, while everyone in his turn told tales according to his nature + or experience. + </p> + <p> + They bought at Pittsburgh a strong boat partly covered, and at the point + where the Allegheny and the Monongahela unite they set sail down the Ohio. + It was winter now, but in their stout caravel they did not care. They had + ample supplies of all kinds, including ammunition, and their hearts were + light when they swung into the middle of the Ohio and moved with its + current. + </p> + <p> + “Now for a great voyage,” said Paul, looking at the clear stream with + sparkling eyes. + </p> + <p> + “I wonder what it will bring to us,” said Shif'less Sol. + </p> + <p> + “We shall see,” said Henry. + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> + </p> + <div>*** END OF THE PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK 1078 ***</div> +</body> +</html> |