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+The Project Gutenberg EBook of Osceola the Seminole, by Mayne Reid
+
+This eBook is for the use of anyone anywhere at no cost and with
+almost no restrictions whatsoever.  You may copy it, give it away or
+re-use it under the terms of the Project Gutenberg License included
+with this eBook or online at www.gutenberg.org
+
+
+Title: Osceola the Seminole
+       The Red Fawn of the Flower Land
+
+Author: Mayne Reid
+
+Illustrator: N. Orr, (Engraver)
+
+Release Date: March 20, 2011 [EBook #35620]
+
+Language: English
+
+Character set encoding: ASCII
+
+*** START OF THIS PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK OSCEOLA THE SEMINOLE ***
+
+
+
+
+Produced by Nick Hodson of London, England
+
+
+
+
+Osceola the Seminole
+The Red Fawn of the Flower Land
+By Captain Mayne Reid
+Published by Robert M. De Witt, New York.
+This edition dated 1868.
+
+Osceola the Seminole, by Captain Mayne Reid.
+
+________________________________________________________________________
+
+________________________________________________________________________
+OSCEOLA THE SEMINOLE, BY CAPTAIN MAYNE REID.
+
+
+
+PREFACE.
+
+The Historical Novel has ever maintained a high rank--perhaps the
+highest--among works of fiction, for the reason that while it enchants
+the senses, it improves the mind, conveying, under a most pleasing form,
+much information which, perhaps, the reader would never have sought for
+amid the dry records of the purely historic narrative.
+
+This fact being conceded, it needs but little argument to prove that
+those works are most interesting which treat of the facts and incidents
+pertaining to our own history, and of a date which is yet fresh in the
+memory of the reader.
+
+To this class of books pre-eminently belongs the volume which is here
+submitted to the American reader, from the pen of a writer who has
+proved himself unsurpassed in the field which he has, by his various
+works, made peculiarly his own.
+
+The brief but heroic struggle of the celebrated Chief, Osceola, forms
+the groundwork of a narrative which is equal, if not superior, to any of
+Mr Reid's former productions; and while the reader's patriotism cannot
+fail to be gratified at the result, his sympathy is, at the same time,
+awakened for the manly struggles and untimely fate of the gallant
+spirit, who fought so nobly for the freedom of his red brethren and the
+preservation of their cherished hunting-grounds.
+
+
+
+CHAPTER ONE.
+
+THE FLOWERY LAND.
+
+Linda Florida! fair land of flowers!
+
+Thus hailed thee the bold Spanish adventurer, as standing upon the prow
+of his caravel, he first caught sight of thy shores.
+
+It was upon the Sunday of Palms--the festival of the flowers--and the
+devout Castilian beheld in thee a fit emblem of the day.  Under the
+influence of a pious thought, he gave thee its name, and well deservedst
+thou the proud appellation.
+
+That was three hundred years ago.  Three full cycles have rolled past,
+since the hour of thy baptismal ceremony; but the title becomes thee as
+ever.  Thy floral bloom is as bright at this hour as when Leon landed
+upon thy shores--ay, bright as when the breath of God first called thee
+into being.
+
+Thy forests are still virgin and inviolate; verdant thy savannas; thy
+groves as fragrant as ever--those perfumed groves of aniseed and orange,
+of myrtle and magnolia.  Still sparkles upon thy plains the cerulean
+ixia; still gleam in thy waters the golden nymphae; above thy swamps yet
+tower the colossal cypress, the gigantic cedar, the gum, and the
+bay-tree; still over thy gentle slopes of silvery sand wave long-leaved
+pines, mingling their acetalous foliage with the frondage of the palm.
+Strange anomaly of vegetation; the tree of the north, and the tree of
+the south--the types of the frigid and torrid--in this thy mild mid
+region, standing side by side, and blending their branches together!
+
+Linda Florida! who can behold thee without peculiar emotion? without
+conviction that thou art a favoured land?  Gazing upon thee, one ceases
+to wonder at the faith--the wild faith of the early adventurers--that
+from thy bosom gushed forth the fountain of youth, the waters of eternal
+life!
+
+No wonder the sweet fancy found favour and credence; no wonder so
+delightful an idea had its crowds of devotees.  Thousands came from
+afar, to find rejuvenescence by bathing in thy crystal streams--
+thousands sought it, with far more eagerness than the white metal of
+Mexico, or the yellow gold of Peru; in the search thousands grew older
+instead of younger, or perished in pursuit of the vain illusion; but who
+could wonder?
+
+Even at this hour, one can scarcely think it an illusion; and in that
+age of romance, it was still easier of belief.  A new world had been
+discovered, why not a new theory of life?  Men looked upon a land where
+the leaves never fell, and the flowers never faded.  The bloom was
+eternal--eternal the music of the birds.  There was no winter--no signs
+of death or decay.  Natural, then, the fancy, and easy the faith, that
+in such fair land man too might be immortal.
+
+The delusion has long since died away, but not the beauty that gave
+birth to it.  Thou, Florida, art still the same--still art thou
+emphatically the land of flowers.  Thy groves are as green, thy skies as
+bright, thy waters as diaphanous as ever.  There is no change in the
+loveliness of thy aspect.
+
+And yet I observe a change.  The scene is the same, but not the
+characters!  Where are they of that red race who were born of thee, and
+nurtured on thy bosom?  I see them not.  In thy fields, I behold white
+and black, but not red--European and African, but not Indian--not one of
+that ancient people who were once thine own.  Where are they?
+
+Gone! all gone!  No longer tread they thy flowery paths--no longer are
+thy crystal streams cleft by the keels of their canoes--no more upon thy
+spicy gale is borne the sound of their voices--the twang of their
+bowstrings is heard no more amid the trees of thy forest: they have
+parted from thee far and for ever.
+
+But not willing went they away--for who could leave thee with a willing
+heart?  No, fair Florida; thy red children were true to thee, and parted
+only in sore unwillingness.  Long did they cling to the loved scenes of
+their youth; long continued they the conflict of despair, that has made
+them famous for ever.  Whole armies, and many a hard straggle, it cost
+the pale-face to dispossess them; and then they went not willingly--they
+were torn from thy bosom like wolf-cubs from their dam, and forced to a
+far western land.  Sad their hearts, and slow their steps, as they faced
+toward the setting sun.  Silent or weeping, they moved onward.  In all
+that band, there was not one voluntary exile.
+
+No wonder they disliked to leave thee.  I can well comprehend the
+poignancy of their grief.  I too have enjoyed the sweets of thy flowery
+land, and parted from thee with like reluctance.  I have walked under
+the shadows of thy majestic forests, and bathed my body in thy limpid
+streams--not with the hope of rejuvenescence, but the certainty of
+health and joy.  Oft have I made my couch under the canopy of thy
+spreading palms and magnolias, or stretched myself along the greensward
+of thy savannas; and, with eyes bent upon the blue ether of thy heavens,
+have listened to my heart repeating the words of the eastern poet:
+
+  "Oh! if there can be an Elysium on earth,
+  It is this--it is this!"
+
+
+
+CHAPTER TWO.
+
+THE INDIGO PLANTATION.
+
+My father was an indigo planter; his name was Randolph.  I bear his name
+in full--George Randolph.
+
+There is Indian blood in my veins.  My father was of the Randolphs of
+Roanoke--hence descended from the Princess Pocahontas.  He was proud of
+his Indian ancestry--almost vain of it.
+
+It may sound paradoxical, especially to European ears; but it is true,
+that white men in America, who have Indian blood in them, are proud of
+the taint.  Even to be a "half-breed" is no badge of shame--particularly
+where the _sang mele_ has been gifted with fortune.  Not all the volumes
+that have been written bear such strong testimony to the grandeur of the
+Indian character as this one fact--we are not ashamed to acknowledge
+them as ancestry!
+
+Hundreds of white families lay claim to descent from the Virginian
+princess.  If their claims be just, then must the fair Pocahontas have
+been a blessing to her lord.
+
+I think my father _was_ of the true lineage; at all events, he belonged
+to a proud family in the "Old Dominion;" and during his early life had
+been surrounded by sable slaves in hundreds.  But his rich patrimonial
+lands became at length worn-out--profuse hospitality well-nigh ruined
+him; and not brooking an inferior station, he gathered up the fragments
+of his fortune, and "moved" southward--there to begin the world anew.
+
+I was born before this removal, and am therefore a native of Virginia;
+but my earliest impressions of a home were formed upon the banks of the
+beautiful Suwanee in Florida.  That was the scene of my boyhood's life--
+the spot consecrated to me by the joys of youth and the charms of early
+love.
+
+I would paint the picture of my boyhood's home.  Well do I remember it:
+so fair a scene is not easily effaced from the memory.
+
+A handsome "frame"-house, coloured white, with green Venetians over the
+windows, and a wide verandah extending all round.  Carved wooden
+porticoes support the roof of this verandah, and a low balustrade with
+light railing separates it from the adjoining grounds--from the flower
+parterre in front, the orangery on the right flank and a large garden on
+the left.  From the outer edge of the parterre, a smooth lawn slopes
+gently to the bank of the river--here expanding to the dimensions of a
+noble lake, with distant wooded shores, islets that seem suspended in
+the air, wild-fowl upon the wing, and wild-fowl in the water.
+
+Upon the lawn, behold tall tapering palms, with pinnatifid leaves--a
+species of _oreodoxia_--others with broad fan-shaped fronds--the
+_palmettoes_ of the south; behold magnolias, clumps of the fragrant
+illicium, and radiating crowns of the _yucca gloriosa_--all indigenous
+to the soil.  Another native presents itself to the eye--a huge live-oak
+extending its long horizontal boughs, covered thickly with evergreen
+coriaceous leaves, and broadly shadowing the grass beneath.  Under its
+shade behold a beautiful girl, in light summer robes--her hair loosely
+coifed with a white kerchief, from the folds of which have escaped long
+tresses glittering with the hues of gold.  That is my sister Virginia,
+my only sister, still younger than myself.  Her golden hair bespeaks not
+her Indian descent, but in that she takes after our mother.  She is
+playing with her pets, the doe of the fallow deer, and its pretty
+spotted fawn.  She is feeding them with the pulp of the sweet orange, of
+which they are immoderately fond.  Another favourite is by her side, led
+by its tiny chain.  It is the black fox-squirrel, with glossy coat and
+quivering tail.  Its eccentric gambols frighten the fawn, causing the
+timid creature to start over the ground, and press closer to its mother,
+and sometimes to my sister, for protection.
+
+The scene has its accompaniment of music.  The golden oriole, whose nest
+is among the orange-trees, gives out its liquid song; the mock-bird,
+caged in the verandah, repeats the strain with variations.  The gay
+mimic echoes the red cardinal and the blue jay, both fluttering among
+the flowers of the magnolia; it mocks the chatter of the green
+paroquets, that are busy with the berries of the tall cypresses down by
+the water's edge; at intervals it repeats the wild scream of the Spanish
+curlews that wave their silver wings overhead, or the cry of the
+tantalus heard from the far islets of the lake.  The bark of the dog,
+the mewing of the cat, the hinny of mules, the neighing of horses, even
+the tones of the human voice, are all imitated by this versatile and
+incomparable songster.
+
+The rear of the dwelling presents a different aspect--perhaps not so
+bright, though not less cheerful.  Here is exhibited a scene of active
+life--a picture of the industry of an indigo plantation.
+
+A spacious enclosure, with its "post-and-rail" fence, adjoins the house.
+Near the centre of this stands the _piece de resistance_--a grand shed
+that covers half an acre of ground, supported upon strong pillars of
+wood.  Underneath are seen huge oblong vats, hewn from the great trunks
+of the cypress.  They are ranged in threes, one above the other, and
+communicate by means of spigots placed in their ends.  In these the
+precious plant is macerated, and its cerulean colour extracted.
+
+Beyond are rows of pretty little cottages, uniform in size and shape,
+each embowered in its grove of orange-trees, whose ripening fruit and
+white wax-like flowers fill the air with perfume.  These are the
+negro-cabins.  Here and there, towering above their roofs in upright
+attitude, or bending gently over, is the same noble palm-tree that
+ornaments the lawn in front.  Other houses appear within the enclosure,
+rude structures of hewn logs, with "clap-board" roofs: they are the
+stable, the corn-crib, the kitchen--this last communicating with the
+main dwelling by a long open gallery, with shingle roof, supported upon
+posts of the fragrant red cedar.
+
+Beyond the enclosure stretch wild fields, backed by a dark belt of
+cypress forest that shuts out the view of the horizon.  These fields
+exhibit the staple of cultivation, the precious dye-plant, though other
+vegetation appears upon them.  There are maize-plants and sweet potatoes
+(_Convolvulus batatas_) some rice, and sugar-cane.  These are not
+intended for commerce, but to provision the establishment.
+
+The indigo is sown in straight rows, with intervals between.  The plants
+are of different ages, some just bursting through the glebe with leaves
+like young trefoil; others full-grown, above two feet in height,
+resemble ferns, and exhibit the light-green pinnated leaves which
+distinguish most of the _leguminosa_--for the indigo belongs to this
+tribe.  Some shew their papilionaceous flowers just on the eve of
+bursting; but rarely are they permitted to exhibit their full bloom.
+Another destiny awaits them; and the hand of the reaper rudely checks
+their purple inflorescence.
+
+In the inclosure, and over the indigo-fields, a hundred human forms are
+moving; with one or two exceptions, they are all of the African race--
+all slaves.  They are not all of black skin--scarcely the majority of
+them are negroes.  There are mulattoes, samboes, and quadroons.  Even
+some who are of pure African blood are not black, only bronze-coloured;
+but with the exception of the "overseer" and the owner of the
+plantation, all are slaves.  Some are hideously ugly, with thick lips,
+low retreating foreheads, flat noses, and ill-formed bodies! others are
+well proportioned; and among them are some that might be accounted
+good-looking.  There are women nearly white--quadroons.  Of the latter
+are several that are more than good-looking--some even beautiful.
+
+The men are in their work-dresses: loose cotton trousers, with coarse
+coloured shirts, and hats of palmetto-leaf.  A few display dandyism in
+their attire.  Some are naked from the waist upwards, their black skins
+glistening under the sun like ebony.  The women are more gaily arrayed
+in striped prints, and heads "toqued" with Madras kerchiefs of brilliant
+check.  The dresses of some are tasteful and pretty.  The turban-like
+coiffure renders them picturesque.
+
+Both men and women are alike employed in the business of the
+plantation--the manufacture of the indigo.  Some cut down the plants
+with reaping-hooks, and tie them in bundles; others carry the bundles in
+from the fields to the great shed; a few are employed in throwing them
+into the upper trough, the "steeper;" while another few are drawing off
+and "beating."  Some shovel the sediment into the draining-bags, while
+others superintend the drying and cutting out.  All have their
+respective tasks, and all seem alike cheerful in the performance of
+them.  They laugh, and chatter, and sing; they give back jest for jest;
+and scarcely a moment passes that merry voices are not ringing upon the
+ear.
+
+And yet these are all slaves--the slaves of my father.  He treats them
+well; seldom is the lash uplifted: hence the happy mood and cheerful
+aspect.
+
+Such pleasant pictures are graven on my memory, sweetly and deeply
+impressed.  They formed the _mise-en-scene_ of my early life.
+
+
+
+CHAPTER THREE.
+
+THE TWO JAKES.
+
+Every plantation has its "bad fellow"--often more than one, but always
+one who holds pre-eminence in evil.  "Yellow Jake" was the fiend of
+ours.
+
+He was a young mulatto, in person not ill-looking, but of sullen habit
+and morose disposition.  On occasions he had shewn himself capable of
+fierce resentment and cruelty.
+
+Instances of such character are more common among mulattoes than
+negroes.  Pride of colour on the part of the yellow man--confidence in a
+higher organism, both intellectual and physical, and consequently a
+keener sense of the injustice of his degraded position, explain this
+psychological difference.
+
+As for the pure negro, he rarely enacts the unfeeling savage.  In the
+drama of human life, he is the victim, not the villain.  No matter where
+lies the scene--in his own land, or elsewhere--he has been used to play
+the _role_ of the sufferer; yet his soul is still free from resentment
+or ferocity.  In all the world, there is no kinder heart than that which
+beats within the bosom of the African black.
+
+Yellow Jake was wicked without provocation.  Cruelty was innate in his
+disposition--no doubt inherited.  He was a Spanish mulatto; that is,
+paternally of Spanish blood--maternally, negro.  His father had sold him
+to mine!
+
+A slave-mother, a slave-son.  The father's freedom affects not the
+offspring.  Among the black and red races of America, the child fellows
+the fortunes of the mother.  Only she of Caucasian race can be the
+mother of white men.
+
+There was another "Jacob" upon the plantation--hence the distinctive
+sobriquet of "Yellow Jake."  This other was "Black Jake;" and only in
+age and size was there any similarity between the two.  In disposition
+they differed even more than in complexion.  If Yellow Jake had the
+brighter skin, Black Jake had the lighter heart.  Their countenances
+exhibited a complete contrast--the contrast between a sullen frown and a
+cheerful smile.  The white teeth of the latter were ever set in smiles:
+the former smiled only when under the influence of some malicious
+prompting.
+
+Black Jake was a Virginian.  He was one of those belonging to the old
+plantation--had "moved" along with his master; and felt those ties of
+attachment which in many cases exist strongly between master and slave.
+He regarded himself as one of our family, and gloried in bearing our
+name.  Like all negroes born in the "Old Dominion," he was proud of his
+nativity.  In caste, a "Vaginny nigger" takes precedence of all others.
+
+Apart from his complexion, Black Jake was not ill-looking.  His features
+were as good as those of the mulatto.  He had neither the thick lips,
+flat nose, nor retreating forehead of his race--for these
+characteristics are not universal.  I have known negroes of pure African
+blood with features perfectly regular, and such a one was Black Jake.
+In form, he might have passed for the Ethiopian Apollo.
+
+There was one who thought him handsome--handsomer than his yellow
+namesake.  This was the quadroon Viola, the belle of the plantation.
+For Viola's hand, the two Jakes had long time been rival suitors.  Both
+had assiduously courted her smiles--somewhat capricious they were, for
+Viola was not without coquetry--but she had at length exhibited a marked
+preference for the black.  I need not add that there was jealousy
+between the negro and mulatto--on the part of the latter, rank hatred of
+his rival--which Viola's preference had kindled into fierce resentment.
+
+More than once had the two measured their strength, and on each occasion
+had the black been victorious.  Perhaps to this cause, more than to his
+personal appearance, was he indebted for the smiles of Viola.
+Throughout all the world, throughout all time, beauty has bowed down
+before courage and strength.
+
+Yellow Jake was our woodman; Black Jake, the curator of the horses, the
+driver of "white massa's" barouche.
+
+The story of the two Jakes--their loves and their jealousies--is but a
+common affair in the _petite politique_ of plantation-life.  I have
+singled it out, not from any separate interest it may possess, but as
+leading to a series of events that exercised an important influence on
+my own subsequent history.
+
+The first of these events was as follows; Yellow Jake, burning with
+jealousy at the success of his rival, had grown spiteful with Viola.
+Meeting her by some chance in the woods, and far from the house, he had
+offered her a dire insult.  Resentment had rendered him reckless.  The
+opportune arrival of my sister had prevented him from using violence,
+but the intent could not be overlooked; and chiefly through my sister's
+influence, the mulatto was brought to punishment.
+
+It was the first time that Yellow Jake had received chastisement, though
+not the first time he had deserved it.  My father had been indulgent
+with him; too indulgent, all said.  He had often pardoned him when
+guilty of faults--of crimes.  My father was of an easy temper, and had
+an exceeding dislike to proceed to the extremity of the lash; but in
+this case my sister had urged, with some spirit, the necessity of the
+punishment.  Viola was her maid; and the wicked conduct of the mulatto
+could not be overlooked.
+
+The castigation did not cure him of his propensity to evil.  An event
+occurred shortly after, that proved he was vindictive.  My sister's
+pretty fawn was found dead by the shore of the lake.  It could not have
+died from any natural cause--for it was seen alive, and skipping over
+the lawn but the hour before.  No alligator could have done it, nor yet
+a wolf.  There was neither scratch nor tear upon it; no signs of blood!
+It must have been strangled.
+
+It _was_ strangled, as proved in the sequel.  Yellow Jake had done it,
+and Black Jake had seen him.  From the orange grove, where the latter
+chanced to be at work, he had been witness of the tragic scene; and his
+testimony procured a second flogging for the mulatto.
+
+A third event followed close upon the heels of this--a quarrel between
+negro and mulatto, that came to blows.  It had been sought by the latter
+to revenge himself, at once upon his rival in love, and the witness of
+his late crime.
+
+The conflict did not end in mere blows.  Yellow Jake, with an instinct
+derived from his Spanish paternity, drew his knife, and inflicted a
+severe wound upon his unarmed antagonist.
+
+This time his punishment was more severe.  I was myself enraged, for
+Black Jake was my "body guard" and favourite.  Though his skin was
+black, and his intellect but little cultivated, his cheerful disposition
+rendered him a pleasant companion; he was, in fact, the chosen associate
+of my boyish days--my comrade upon the water, and in the woods.
+
+Justice required satisfaction, and Yellow Jake caught it in earnest.
+
+The punishment proved of no avail.  He was incorrigible.  The demon
+spirit was too strong within him: it was part of his nature.
+
+
+
+CHAPTER FOUR.
+
+THE HOMMOCK.
+
+Just outside the orangery was one of those singular formations--
+peculiar, I believe, to Florida.
+
+A circular basin, like a vast sugar-pan, opens into the earth, to the
+depth of many feet, and having a diameter of forty yards or more.  In
+the bottom of this, several cavities are seen, about the size and of the
+appearance of dug wells, regularly cylindrical--except where their sides
+have fallen in, or the rocky partition between them has given way, in
+which case they resemble a vast honeycomb with broken cells.
+
+The wells are sometimes found dry; but more commonly there is water in
+the bottom, and often filling the great tank itself.
+
+Such natural reservoirs, although occurring in the midst of level
+plains, are always partially surrounded by eminences--knolls, and
+detached masses of testaceous rocks; all of which are covered by an
+evergreen thicket of native trees, as _magnolia grandiflora_, red bay,
+_zanthoxylon_, live-oak, mulberry, and several species of fan-palms
+(palmettoes).  Sometimes these shadowy coverts are found among the trees
+of the pine-forests, and sometimes they appear in the midst of green
+savannas, like islets in the ocean.
+
+They constitute the "hommocks" of Florida--famed in the story of its
+Indian wars.
+
+One of these, then, was situated just outside the orangery; with groups
+of testaceous rocks forming a half-circle around its edge; and draped
+with the dark foliage of evergreen trees, of the species already
+mentioned.  The water contained in the basin was sweet and limpid; and
+far down in its crystal depths might be seen gold and red fish, with
+yellow bream, spotted bass, and many other beautiful varieties of the
+finny tribe, disporting themselves all day long.  The tank was in
+reality a natural fishpond; and, moreover, it was used as the family
+bathing-place--for, under the hot sun of Florida, the bath is a
+necessity as well as a luxury.
+
+From the house, it was approached by a sanded walk that led across the
+orangery, and some large stone-flags enabled the bather to descend
+conveniently into the water.  Of course, only the white members of the
+family were allowed the freedom of this charming sanctuary.
+
+Outside the hommock extended the fields under cultivation, until bounded
+in the distance by tall forests of cypress and white cedar--a sort of
+impenetrable morass that covered the country for miles beyond.
+
+On one side of the plantation-fields was a wide plain, covered with
+grassy turf, and without enclosure of any kind.  This was the _savanna_,
+a natural meadow where the horses and cattle of the plantation were
+freely pastured.  Deer often appeared upon this plain, and flocks of the
+wild turkey.
+
+I was just of that age to be enamoured of the chase.  Like most youth of
+the southern states who have little else to do, hunting was my chief
+occupation; and I was passionately fond of it.  My father had procured
+for me a brace of splendid greyhounds; and it was a favourite pastime
+with me to conceal myself in the hommock, wait for the deer and turkeys
+as they approached, and then course them across the savanna.  In this
+manner I made many a capture of both species of game; for the wild
+turkey can easily be run down with fleet dogs.
+
+The hour at which I was accustomed to enjoy this amusement was early in
+the morning, before any of the family were astir.  That was the best
+time to find the game upon the savanna.
+
+One morning, as usual, I repaired to my stand in the covert.  I climbed
+upon a rock, whose flat top afforded footing both to myself and my dogs.
+From this elevated position I had the whole plain under view, and could
+observe any object that might be moving upon it, while I was myself
+secure from observation.  The broad leaves of the magnolia formed a
+bower around me, leaving a break in the foliage, through which I could
+make my reconnoissance.
+
+On this particular morning I had arrived before sunrise.  The horses
+were still in their stables, and the cattle in the enclosure.  Even by
+the deer, the savanna was untenanted, as I could perceive at the first
+glance.  Over all its wide extent not an antler was to be seen.
+
+I was somewhat disappointed on observing this.  My mother expected a
+party upon that day.  She had expressed a wish to have venison at
+dinner: I had promised her she should have it; and on seeing the savanna
+empty, I felt disappointment.
+
+I was a little surprised, too; the sight was unusual.  Almost every
+morning, there were deer upon this wide pasture, at one point or
+another.
+
+Had some early stalker been before me?  Probable enough.  Perhaps young
+Ringgold from the next plantation; or maybe one of the Indian hunters,
+who seemed never to sleep?  Certainly, some one had been over the
+ground, and frightened off the game?
+
+The savanna was a free range, and all who chose might hunt or pasture
+upon it.  It was a tract of common ground, belonging to no one of the
+plantations--government land not yet purchased.
+
+Certainly Ringgold had been there? or old Hickman, the alligator-hunter,
+who lived upon the skirt of our plantation? or it might be an Indian
+from the other side of the swamp?
+
+With such conjectures did I account for the absence of the game.
+
+I felt chagrin.  I should not be able to keep my promise; there would be
+no venison for dinner.  A turkey I might obtain; the hour for chasing
+them had not yet arrived.  I could hear them calling from the tall
+tree-tops--their loud "gobbling" borne far and clear upon the still air
+of the morning.  I did not care for these--the larder was already
+stocked with them; I had killed a brace on the preceding day.  I did not
+want more--I wanted venison.
+
+To procure it, I must needs try some other mode than coursing.  I had my
+rifle with me; I could try a "still-hunt" in the woods.  Better still, I
+would go in the direction of old Hickman's cabin; he might help me in my
+dilemma.  Perhaps he had been out already? if so, he would be sure to
+bring home venison.  I could procure a supply from him, and keep my
+promise.--The sun was just shewing his disc above the horizon; his rays
+were tingeing the tops of the distant cypresses, whose light-green
+leaves shone with the lines of gold.
+
+I gave one more glance over the savanna, before descending from my
+elevated position; in that glance I saw what caused me to change my
+resolution, and remain upon the rock.
+
+A herd of deer was trooping out from the edge of the cypress woods--at
+that corner where the rail-fence separated the savanna from the
+cultivated fields.
+
+"Ha!" thought I, "they have been poaching upon the young maize-plants."
+
+I bent my eyes towards the point whence, as I supposed, they had issued
+from the fields.  I knew there was a gap near the corner, with movable
+bars.  I could see it from where I stood, but I now perceived that the
+bars were in their places!  The deer could not have been in the fields
+then?  It was not likely they had leaped either the bars or the fence.
+It was a high rail-fence, with "stakes and riders."  The bars were as
+high as the fence.  The deer must have come out of the woods?
+
+This observation was instantly followed by another.  The animals were
+running rapidly, as if alarmed by the presence of some enemy.
+
+A hunter is behind them?  Old Hickman?  Ringgold?  Who?
+
+I gazed eagerly, sweeping my eyes along the edge of the timber, but for
+a while saw no one.
+
+"A lynx or a bear may have startled them?  If so, they will not go far;
+I shall have a chance with my greyhounds yet.  Perhaps--"
+
+My reflections were brought to a sudden termination, on perceiving what
+had caused the stampede of the deer.  It was neither bear nor lynx, but
+a human being.
+
+A man was just emerging from out the dark shadow of the cypresses.  The
+sun as yet only touched the tops of the trees; but there was light
+enough below to enable me to make out the figure of a man--still more,
+to recognise the individual.  It was neither Ringgold nor Hickman, nor
+yet an Indian.  The dress I knew well--the blue cottonade trousers, the
+striped shirt, and palmetto hat.  The dress was that worn by our
+woodman.  The man was Yellow Jake.
+
+
+
+CHAPTER FIVE.
+
+YELLOW JAKE.
+
+Not without some surprise did I make this discovery.  What was the
+mulatto doing in the woods at such an hour?  It was not his habit to be
+so thrifty; on the contrary, it was difficult to rouse him to his daily
+work.  He was not a hunter--had no taste for it.  I never saw him go
+after game--though, from being always in the woods, he was well
+acquainted with the haunts and habits of every animal that dwelt there.
+What was he doing abroad on this particular morning?
+
+I remained on my perch to watch him, at the same time keeping an eye
+upon the deer.
+
+It soon became evident that the mulatto was not after these; for, on
+coming out of the timber, he turned along its edge, in a direction
+opposite to that in which the deer had gone.  He went straight towards
+the gap that fed into the maize-field.
+
+I noticed that he moved slowly and in a crouching attitude.  I thought
+there was some object near his feet: it appeared to be a dog, but a very
+small one.  Perhaps an opossum, thought I.  It was of whitish colour, as
+these creatures are; but in the distance I could not distinguish between
+an opossum and a puppy.  I fancied, however, that it was the pouched
+animal; that he had caught it in the woods, and was leading it along in
+a string.
+
+There was nothing remarkable or improbable in all this behaviour.  The
+mulatto may have discovered an opossum-cave the day before, and set a
+trap for the animal.  It may have been caught in the night, and he was
+now on his way home with it.  The only point that surprised me was, that
+the fellow had turned hunter; but I explained this upon another
+hypothesis.  I remembered how fond the negroes are of the flesh of the
+opossum, and Yellow Jake was no exception to the rule.  Perhaps he had
+seen, the day before, that this one could be easily obtained, and had
+resolved upon having a roast?
+
+But why was he not carrying it in a proper manner?  He appeared to be
+leading, or dragging it rather--for I knew the creature would not be
+led--and every now and then I observed him stoop towards it, as if
+caressing it.
+
+I was puzzled; it could not be an opossum.
+
+I watched the man narrowly till he arrived opposite the gap in the
+fence.  I expected to see him step over the bars--since through the
+maize-field was the nearest way to the house.  Certainly he entered the
+field; but, to my astonishment, instead of climbing over in the usual
+manner, I saw him take out bar after bar, down to the very lowest.  I
+observed, moreover, that he flung the bars to one side, leaving the gap
+quite open!
+
+He then passed through, and entering among the corn, in the same
+crouching attitude, disappeared behind the broad blades of the young
+maize-plants--
+
+For a while I saw no more of him, or the white object that he "toated"
+along with him in such a singular fashion.
+
+I turned my attention to the deer: they had got over their alarm, and
+had halted near the middle of the savanna, where they were now quietly
+browsing.
+
+But I could not help pondering upon the eccentric manoeuvres I had just
+been witness of; and once more I bent my eyes toward the place, where I
+had last seen the mulatto.
+
+He was still among the maize-plants.  I could see nothing of him; but at
+that moment my eyes rested upon an object that filled me with fresh
+surprise.
+
+Just at the point where Yellow Jake had emerged from the woods,
+something else appeared in motion--also coming out into the open
+savanna.  It was a dark object, and from its prostrate attitude,
+resembled a man crawling forward upon his hands, and dragging his limbs
+after him.
+
+For a moment or two, I believed it to be a man--not a white man--but a
+negro or an Indian.  The tactics were Indian, but we were at peace with
+these people, and why should one of them be thus trailing the mulatto?
+I say "trailing" for the attitude and motions, of whatever creature I
+saw, plainly indicated that it was following upon the track which Yellow
+Jake had just passed over.
+
+Was it Black Jake who was after him?
+
+This idea came suddenly into my mind: I remembered the _vendetta_ that
+existed between them; I remembered the conflict in which Yellow Jake had
+used his knife.  True, he had been punished, but not by Black Jake
+himself.  Was the latter now seeking to revenge himself in person?
+
+This might have appeared the easiest explanation of the scene that was
+mystifying me; had it not been for the improbability of the black acting
+in such a manner.  I could not think that the noble fellow would seek
+any mean mode of retaliation, however revengeful he might feel against
+one who had so basely attacked him.  It was not in keeping with his
+character.  No.  It could not be he who was crawling out of the bushes.
+
+Nor he, nor any one.
+
+At that moment, the golden sun flashed over the savanna.  His beams
+glanced along the greensward, lighting the trees to their bases.  The
+dark form emerged from out of the shadow, and turned head towards the
+maize-field.  The long prostrate body glittered under the sun with a
+sheen like scaled armour.  It was easily recognised.  It was not negro--
+not Indian--not human: it was the hideous form of an alligator!
+
+
+
+CHAPTER SIX.
+
+THE ALLIGATOR.
+
+To one brought up--born, I might almost say--upon the banks of a
+Floridian river, there is nothing remarkable in the sight of an
+alligator.  Nothing very terrible either; for ugly as is the great
+saurian--certainly the most repulsive form in the animal kingdom--it is
+least dreaded by those who know it best.  For all that, it is seldom
+approached without some feeling of fear.  The stranger to its haunts and
+habits, abhors and flees from it; and even the native--be he red, white,
+or black--whose home borders the swamp and the lagoon, approaches this
+gigantic lizard with caution.
+
+Some closet naturalists have asserted that the alligator will not attack
+man, and yet they admit that it will destroy horses and horned cattle.
+A like allegation is made of the jaguar and vampire bat.  Strange
+assertions, in the teeth of a thousand testimonies to the contrary.
+
+It is true the alligator does not always attack man when an opportunity
+offers--nor does the lion, nor yet the tiger--but even the false Buffon
+would scarcely be bold enough to declare that the alligator is
+innocuous.  If a list could be furnished of human beings who have fallen
+victims to the voracity of this creature, since the days of Columbus, it
+would be found to be something enormous--quite equal to the havoc made
+in the same period of time by the Indian tiger or the African lion.
+Humboldt, during his short stay in South America, was well informed of
+many instances; and for my part, I know of more than one case of actual
+death, and many of lacerated limbs, received at the jaws of the American
+alligator.
+
+There are many species, both of the caiman or alligator, and of the true
+crocodile, in the waters of tropical America.  They are more or less
+fierce, and hence the difference of "travellers' tales" in relation to
+them.  Even the same species in two different rivers is not always of
+like disposition.  The individuals are affected by outward
+circumstances, as other animals are.  Size, climate, colonisation, all
+produce their effect; and, what may appear still more singular, their
+disposition is influenced by the character of the race of men that
+chances to dwell near them!
+
+On some of the South-American rivers--whose banks are the home of the
+ill-armed apathetic Indian--the caimans are exceedingly bold, and
+dangerous to approach.  Just so were their congeners, the alligators of
+the north, till the stalwart backwoodsman, with his axe in one hand, and
+his rifle in the other, taught them to fear the upright form--a proof
+that these crawling creatures possess the powers of reason.  Even to
+this hour, in many of the swamps and streams of Florida, full-grown
+alligators cannot be approached without peril; this is especially the
+case daring the season of the sexes, and still more where these reptiles
+are encountered remote from the habitations of man.  In Florida are
+rivers and lagoons where a swimmer would have no more chance of life,
+than if he had plunged into a sea of sharks.
+
+Notwithstanding all this, use brings one to look lightly even upon real
+danger--particularly when that danger is almost continuous; and the
+denizen of the _cypriere_ and the _white cedar_ swamp is accustomed to
+regard without much emotion the menace of the ugly alligator.  To the
+native of Florida, its presence is no novelty, and its going or coming
+excites but little interest--except perhaps in the bosom of the black
+man who feeds upon its tail; or the alligator-hunter, who makes a living
+out of its leather.
+
+The appearance of one on the edge of the savanna would not have caused
+me a second thought, had it not been for its peculiar movements, as well
+as those I had just observed on the part of the mulatto.  I could not
+help fancying that there was _some connexion between them_; at all
+events it appeared certain, that the reptile was following the man!
+
+Whether it had him in view, or whether trailing him by the scent, I
+could not tell.  The latter I fancied to be the case; for the mulatto
+had entered under cover of the maize-plants, before the other appeared
+outside the timber; and it could hardly have seen him as it turned
+towards the gap.  It might, but I fancied not.  More like, it was
+trailing him by the scent; but whether the creature was capable of doing
+so, I did not stay to inquire.
+
+On it crawled over the sward--crossing the corner of the meadow, and
+directly upon the track which the man had taken.  At intervals, it
+paused, flattened its breast against the earth, and remained for some
+seconds in this attitude, as if resting itself.  Then it would raise its
+body to nearly a yard in height, and move forward with apparent
+eagerness--as if in obedience to some attractive power in advance of it?
+The alligator progresses but slowly upon dry ground--not faster than a
+duck or goose.  The water is its true element, where it makes way almost
+with the rapidity of a fish.
+
+At length it approached the gap; and, after another pause, it drew its
+long dark body within the enclosure.  I saw it enter among the
+maize-plants, at the exact point where the mulatto had disappeared!  Of
+course, it was now also hidden from my view.
+
+I no longer doubted that the monster was following the man; and equally
+certain was I that the latter _knew_ that he was followed!  How could I
+doubt either of these facts?  To the former, I was an eye-witness; of
+the latter, I had circumstantial proofs.  The singular attitudes and
+actions of the mulatto; his taking out the bars and leaving the gap
+free; his occasional glances backward--which I had observed as he was
+crossing the open ground--these were my proofs that he knew what was
+coming behind him--undoubtedly he knew.
+
+But my conviction upon these two points in nowise helped to elucidate
+the mystery--for a mystery it had become.  Beyond a doubt, the reptile
+was drawn after by some attraction, which it appeared unable to resist--
+its eagerness in advancing was evidence of this, and proved that the man
+was exercising some influence over it that lured it forward.
+
+What influence?  Was he beguiling it by some charm of Obeah?
+
+A superstitious shudder came over me, as I asked myself the question.  I
+really had such fancies at the moment.  Brought up, as I had been, among
+Africans, dandled in the arms--perhaps nourished from the bosom--of many
+a sable nurse, it is not to be wondered at that my young mind was
+tainted with the superstitions of Bonny and Benin.  I knew there were
+alligators in the cypress swamp--in its more remote recesses, some of
+enormous size--but how Yellow Jake had contrived to lure one out, and
+cause it to follow him over the dry cultivated ground, was a puzzle I
+could not explain to myself.  I could think of no natural cause; I was
+therefore forced into the regions of the weird and supernatural.
+
+I stood for a long while watching and wondering.  The deer had passed
+out of my mind.  They fed unnoticed: I was too much absorbed in the
+mysterious movements of the half-breed and his amphibious follower.
+
+
+
+CHAPTER SEVEN.
+
+THE TURTLE-CRAWL.
+
+So long as they remained in the maize-field, I saw nothing of either.
+The direction of my view was slightly oblique to the rows of the plants.
+The corn was at full growth, and its tall culms and broad lanceolate
+leaves would have overtopped the head of a man on horseback.  A thicket
+of evergreen trees would not have been more impenetrable to the eye.
+
+By going a little to the right, I should have become aligned with the
+rows, and could have seen far down the avenues between them; but this
+would have carried me out of the cover, and the mulatto might then have
+seen _me_.  For certain reasons, I did not desire he should; and I
+remained where I had hitherto been standing.
+
+I was satisfied that the man was still making his way up the field, and
+would in due time discover himself in the open ground.
+
+An indigo flat lay between the hommock and the maize.  To approach the
+house, it would be necessary for him to pass through the indigo; and, as
+the plants were but a little over two feet in height, I could not fail
+to observe him as he came through.  I waited, therefore, with a feeling
+of curious anticipation--my thoughts still wearing a tinge of the weird!
+
+He came on slowly--very slowly; but I knew that he was advancing.  I
+could trace his progress by an occasional movement which I observed
+among the leaves and tassels of the maize.  The morning was still--not a
+breath of air stirred; and consequently the motion must have been caused
+by some one passing among the plants--of course by the mulatto himself.
+The oscillation observed farther off, told that the alligator was still
+following.
+
+Again and again I observed this movement among the maize-blades.  It was
+evident the man was not following the direction of the rows, but
+crossing diagonally through them!  For what purpose?  I could not guess.
+Any one of the intervals would have conducted him in a direct line
+towards the house--whither I supposed him to be moving.  Why, then,
+should he adopt a more difficult course, by crossing them?  It was not
+till afterwards that I discovered his object in this zigzag movement.
+
+He had now advanced almost to the nether edge of the cornfield.  The
+indigo flat was of no great breadth, and he was already so near, that I
+could hear the rustling of the cornstalks as they switched against each
+other.
+
+Another sound I could now hear; it resembled the howling of a dog.  I
+heard it again, and, after an interval, again.  It was not the voice of
+a full-grown dog, but rather the weak whimper of a puppy.
+
+At first, I fancied that the sounds came from the alligator: for these
+reptiles make exactly such a noise--but only when young.  The one
+following the mulatto was full-grown; the cries could not proceed from
+it.  Moreover, the sounds came from a point nearer me--from the place
+where the man himself was moving.
+
+I now remembered the white object I had observed as the man was crossing
+the corner of the savanna.  It was not an opossum, then, but a young
+dog.
+
+Yes.  I heard the cry again: it was the whining of a whelp--nothing
+else.
+
+If I could have doubted the evidence of my ears, my eyes would soon have
+convinced me; for, just then, I saw the man emerge from out the maize
+with a dog by his side--a small white cur, and apparently a young one.
+He was leading the creature upon a string, half-dragging it after him.
+I had now a full view of the individual, and saw to a certainty that he
+was our woodman, Yellow Jake.
+
+Before coming out from the cover of the corn, he halted for a moment--as
+if to reconnoitre the ground before him.  He was upon his feet, and in
+an erect attitude.  Whatever motive he had for concealment, he needed
+not to crouch amid the tall plants of maize; but the indigo did not
+promise so good a shelter, and he was evidently considering how to
+advance through it without being perceived.  Plainly, he had a motive
+for concealing himself--his every movement proved this--but with what
+object I could not divine.
+
+The indigo was of the kind known as the "false Guatemala."  There were
+several species cultivated upon the plantation; but this grew tallest;
+and some of the plants, now in their full purple bloom, stood nearly
+three feet from the surface of the soil.  A man passing through them in
+an erect attitude, could, of coarse, have been seen from any part of the
+field; but it was possible for one to crouch down, and move, between the
+rows unobserved.  This possibility seemed to occur to the woodman; for,
+after a short pause, he dropped to his hands and knees, and commenced
+crawling forward among the indigo.
+
+There was no fence for him to cross--the cultivated ground was all under
+one enclosure--and an open ridge alone formed the dividing-line between
+the two kinds of crop.
+
+Had I been upon the same level with the field, the skulker would have
+been now hidden from my sight; but my elevated position enabled me to
+command a view of the intervals between the rows, and I could note every
+movement he was making.
+
+Every now and then he paused, caught up the cur, and held it for a few
+seconds in his hands--during which the animal continued to howl as if in
+pain!
+
+As he drew nearer, and repeated this operation, I saw that he was
+_pinching its ears_!
+
+Fifty paces in his rear, the great lizard appeared coming out of the
+corn.  It scarcely made pause in the open ground, but still following
+the track, entered among the indigo.
+
+At this moment, a light broke upon me; I no longer speculated on the
+power of Obeah.  The mystery was dissolved: the alligator was lured
+forward by the cries of the dog!
+
+I might have thought of the thing before, for I had heard of it before.
+I had heard from good authority--the alligator-hunter himself, who had
+often captured them by such a decoy--that these reptiles will follow a
+howling dog for miles through the forest, and that the old males
+especially are addicted to this habit.  Hickman's belief was that they
+mistake the voice of the dog for that of their own offspring, which
+these unnatural parents eagerly devour.
+
+But, independently of this monstrous propensity, it is well-known that
+dogs are the favourite prey of the alligator; and the unfortunate beagle
+that, in the heat of the chase, ventures across creek or lagoon, is
+certain to be attacked by these ugly amphibia.
+
+The huge reptile, then, was being lured forward by the voice of the
+puppy; and this accounted for the grand overland journey he was making.
+
+There was no longer a mystery--at least, about the mode in which the
+alligator was attracted onward; the only thing that remained for
+explanation was, what motive had the mulatto in carrying out this
+singular manoeuvre?
+
+When I saw him take to his hands and knees, I had been under the
+impression that he did so to approach the house, without being observed.
+But as I continued to watch him, I changed my mind.  I noticed that he
+looked oftener, and with more anxiety _behind_ him, as if he was only
+desirous of being concealed from the eyes of the alligator.  I observed,
+too, that he changed frequently from place to place, as if he aimed at
+keeping a screen of the plants between himself and his follower.  This
+would also account for his having crossed the rows of the maize-plants,
+as already noticed.
+
+After all, it was only some freak that had entered the fellow's brain.
+He had learned this curious mode of coaxing the alligator from its
+haunts--perhaps old Hickman had shown him how--or he may have gathered
+it from his own observation, while wood-chopping in the swamps.  He was
+taking the reptile to the house from some eccentric motive?--to make
+exhibition of it among his fellows?--to have a "lark" with it? or a
+combat between it and the house-dogs? or for some like purpose?
+
+I could not divine his intention, and would have thought no more of it,
+had it not been that one or two little circumstances had made an
+impression upon me.  I was struck by the peculiar pains which the fellow
+was taking to accomplish his purpose with success.  He was sparing
+neither trouble nor time.  True, it was not to be a work-day upon the
+plantation; it was a holiday, and the time was his own; but it was not
+the habit of Yellow Jake to be abroad at so early an hour, and the
+trouble he was taking was not in consonance with his character of
+habitual _insouciance_ and idleness.  Some strong motive, then, must
+have been urging him to the act.  What motive?
+
+I pondered upon it, but could not make it out.
+
+And yet I felt uneasiness, as I watched him.  It was an undefined
+feeling, and I could assign no reason for it--beyond the fact that the
+mulatto was a bad fellow, and I knew him to be capable of almost any
+wickedness.  But if his design was a wicked one, what evil could he
+effect with the alligator?  No one would fear the reptile upon dry
+ground?--it could hurt no one?
+
+Thus I reflected, and still did I feel some indefinite apprehensions.
+
+But for this feeling I should have given over observing his movements,
+and turned my attention to the herd of deer--which I now perceived
+approaching up the savanna, and coming close to my place of concealment.
+
+I resisted the temptation, and continued to watch the mulatto a little
+longer.
+
+I was not kept much longer in suspense.  He had now arrived upon the
+outer edge of the hommock, which he did not enter.  I saw him turn round
+the thicket, and keep on towards the orangery.  There was a wicket at
+this corner which he passed through, leaving the gate open behind him.
+At short intervals, he still caused the dog to utter its involuntary
+howlings.
+
+It no longer needed to cry loudly, for the alligator was now close in
+the rear.
+
+I obtained a full view of the monster as it passed under my position.
+It was not one of the largest, though it was several yards in length.
+There are some that measure more than a statute pole.  This one was full
+twelve feet, from its snout to the extremity of its tail.  It clutched
+the ground with its broad webbed feet as it crawled forward.  Its
+corrugated skin of bluish brown colour was coated with slippery mucus,
+that glittered under the sun as it moved; and large masses of the
+swamp-slime rested in the concavities between its rhomboid scales.  It
+seemed greatly excited; and whenever it heard the voice of the dog,
+exhibited fresh symptoms of rage.  It would erect itself upon its
+muscular arms, raise its head aloft--as if to get a view of the prey--
+lash its plaited tail into the air, and swell its body almost to double
+its natural dimensions.  At the same time, it emitted loud noises from
+its throat and nostrils, that resembled the rumbling of distant thunder,
+and its musky smell filled the air with a sickening effluvium.  A more
+monstrous creature it would be impossible to conceive.  Even the fabled
+dragon could not have been more horrible to behold.
+
+Without stopping, it dragged its long body through the gate, still
+following the direction of the noise.  The leaves of the evergreens
+intervened, and hid the hideous reptile from my sight.
+
+I turned my face in the opposite direction--towards the house--to watch
+the further movements of the mulatto.  From my position, I commanded a
+view of the tank, and could see nearly all around it.  The inner side
+was especially under my view, as it lay opposite, and could only be
+approached through the orangery.
+
+Between the grove and the edge of the great basin, was an open space.
+Here there was an artificial pond only a few yards in width, and with a
+little water at the bottom, which was supplied by means of a pump, from
+the main reservoir.  This pond, or rather enclosure, was the
+"turtle-crawl," a place in which turtle were fed and kept, to be ready
+at all times for the table.  My father still continued his habits of
+Virginian hospitality; and in Florida these aldermanic delicacies are
+easily obtained.
+
+The embankment of this turtle-crawl formed the direct path to the
+water-basin; and as I turned, I saw Yellow Jake upon it, and just
+approaching the pond.  He still carried the cur in his arms; I saw that
+he was causing it to utter a continuous howling.
+
+On reaching the steps, that led down, he paused a moment, and looked
+back.  I noticed that he looked back in both ways--first towards the
+house, and then, with a satisfied air, in the direction whence he had
+come.  No doubt he saw the alligator close at hand; for, without further
+hesitation, he flung the puppy far out into the water; and then,
+retreating along the embankment of the turtle-crawl, he entered among
+the orange-trees, and was out of sight.
+
+The whelp, thus suddenly plunged into the cool tank, kept up a constant
+howling, at the same time beating the water violently with its feet, in
+the endeavour to keep itself afloat.
+
+Its struggles were of short duration.  The alligator, now guided by the
+well-known noise of moving water, as well as the cries of the dog,
+advanced rapidly to the edge; and without hesitating a moment, sprang
+forward into the pond.  With the rapidity of an arrow, it darted out to
+the centre; and, seizing the victim between its bony jaws, dived
+instantaneously under the surface.
+
+I could for some time trace its monstrous form far down in the
+diaphanous water; but guided by instinct, it soon entered one of the
+deep wells, amidst the darkness of which it sank out of sight.
+
+
+
+CHAPTER EIGHT.
+
+THE KING VULTURES.
+
+"So, then, my yellow friend, that is the intention!--a bit of revenge
+after all.  I'll make you pay for it, you spiteful ruffian!  You little
+thought you were observed.  Ha! you shall rue this cunning deviltry
+before night."
+
+Some such soliloquy escaped my lips, as soon as I comprehended the
+design of the mulatto's manoeuvre--for I now understood it--at least I
+thought so.  The tank was full of beautiful fish.  There were gold fish
+and silver fish, hyodons, and red trout.  They were my sister's especial
+pets.  She was very fond of them.  It was her custom to visit them
+daily, give them food, and watch their gambols.  Many an aquatic
+_cotillon_ had she superintended.  They knew her person, would follow
+her around the tank, and take food out of her fingers.  She delighted in
+thus serving them.
+
+The revenge lay in this.  The mulatto well knew that the alligator lives
+upon fish--they are his natural food; and that those in the tank, pent
+up as they were, would soon become his prey.  So strong a tyrant would
+soon ravage the preserve, killing the helpless creatures by scores--of
+course to the chagrin and grief of their fond mistress, and the joy of
+Yellow Jake.
+
+I knew that the fellow disliked my little sister.  The spirited part she
+had played, in having him punished for the affair with Viola, had
+kindled his resentment against her; but since then, there had been other
+little incidents to increase it.  She had favoured the suit of his rival
+with the quadroon, and had forbidden the woodman to approach Viola in
+her presence.  These circumstances had certainly rendered the fellow
+hostile to her; and although there was no outward show of this feeling--
+there dared not be--I was nevertheless aware of the fact.  His killing
+the fawn had proved it, and the present was a fresh instance of the
+implacable spirit of the man.
+
+He calculated upon the alligator soon making havoc among the fish.  Of
+course he knew it would in time be discovered and killed; but likely not
+before many of the finest should be destroyed.
+
+No one would ever dream that the creature had been _brought_ there--for
+on more than one occasion, alligators had found their way into the
+tank--having strayed from the river, or the neighbouring lagoons--or
+rather having been guided thither by an unexplained instinct, which
+enables these creatures to travel straight in the direction of water.
+
+Such, thought I, were the designs and conjectures of Yellow Jake.
+
+It proved afterwards that I had fathomed but half his plan.  I was too
+young, too innocent of wickedness, even to guess at the intense malice
+of which the human heart is capable.
+
+My first impulse was to follow the mulatto to the house--make known what
+he had done--have him punished; and then return with a party to destroy
+the alligator, before he could do any damage among the fish.
+
+At this crisis, the deer claimed my attention.  The herd--an antlered
+buck with several does--had browsed close up to the hommock.  They were
+within two hundred yards of where I stood.  The sight was too tempting.
+I remembered the promise to my mother; it must be kept; venison must be
+obtained at all hazards!
+
+But there was no hazard.  The alligator had already eaten his breakfast.
+With a whole dog in his maw, it was not likely he would disturb the
+finny denizens of the tank for some hours to come; and as for Yellow
+Jake, I saw he had proceeded on to the house; he could be found at any
+moment; his chastisement could stand over till my return.
+
+With these reflections passing through my mind, I abandoned my first
+design, and turned my attention exclusively to the game.
+
+They were too distant for the range of my rifle; and I waited a while in
+the hope that they would move nearer.
+
+But I waited in vain.  The deer is shy of the hommock.  It regards the
+evergreen islet as dangerous ground, and habitually keeps aloof from it.
+Natural enough, since there the creature is oft saluted by the twang of
+the Indian bow, or the whip-like crack of the hunter's rifle.  Thence
+often reaches it the deadly missile.
+
+Perceiving that the game was getting no nearer, but the contrary, I
+resolved to course them; and, gliding down from the rock, I descended
+through the copsewood to the edge of plain.
+
+On reaching the open ground, I rushed forward--at the same time
+unleashing the dogs, and crying the "view hilloo."
+
+It was a splendid chase--led on by the old buck--the dogs following
+tail-on-end.  I thought I never saw deer run so fleetly; it appeared as
+if scarcely a score of seconds had transpired while they were crossing
+the savanna--more than a mile in width.  I had a full and perfect view
+of the whole; there was no obstruction either to run of the animals or
+the eye of the observer; the grass had been browsed short by the cattle,
+and not a bush grew upon the green plain; so that it was a trial of pure
+speed between dogs and deer.  So swiftly ran the deer, I began to feel
+apprehensive about the venison.
+
+My apprehensions were speedily at an end.  Just on the farther edge of
+the savanna, the chase ended--so far at least as the dogs were
+concerned, and one of the deer.  I saw that they had flung a doe, and
+were standing over her, one of them holding her by the throat.
+
+I hurried forward.  Ten minutes brought me to the spot; and after a
+short struggle, the quarry was killed, and bled.
+
+I was satisfied with my dogs, with the sport, with my own exploits.  I
+was happy at the prospect of being able to redeem my promise; and with
+the carcass across my shoulders, I turned triumphantly homeward.
+
+As I faced round, I saw the shadow of wings moving over the sunlit
+savanna.  I looked upward.  Two large birds were above me in the air;
+they were at no great height, nor were they endeavouring to mount
+higher.  On the contrary, they were wheeling in spiral rings, that
+seemed to incline downward at each successive circuit they made around
+me.
+
+At first glance, the sun's beams were in my eyes, and I could not tell
+what birds were flapping above me.  On facing round, I had the sun in my
+favour; and his rays, glancing full upon the soft cream-coloured
+plumage, enabled me to recognise the species--they were _king
+vultures_--the most beautiful birds of their tribe, I am almost tempted
+to say the most beautiful birds in creation; certainly they take rank,
+among those most distinguished in the world of ornithology.
+
+These birds are natives of the flowery land, but stray no farther north.
+Their haunt is on the green "everglades" and wide savannas of Florida,
+on the llanos of the Orinoco, and the plains of the Apure.  In Florida
+they are rare, though not in all parts of it; but their appearance in
+the neighbourhood of the plantations excites an interest similar to that
+which is occasioned by the flight of an eagle.  Not so with the other
+vultures--_Cathartes aura_ and _atratus_--both of which are as common as
+crows.
+
+In proof that the king vultures are rare, I may state that my sister had
+never seen one--except at a great distance off; yet this young lady was
+twelve years of age, and a native of the land.  True, she had not gone
+much abroad--seldom beyond the bounds of the plantation.  I remembered
+her expressing an ardent desire to view more closely one of these
+beautiful birds.  I remembered it that moment; and at once formed the
+design of gratifying her wish.
+
+The birds were near enough--so near that I could distinguish the deep
+yellow colour of their throats, the coral red upon their crowns, and the
+orange lappets that drooped along their beaks.  They were near enough--
+within half reach of my rifle--but moving about as they were, it would
+have required a better marksman than I to have brought one of them down
+with a bullet.
+
+I did not think of trying it in that way.  Another idea was in my mind;
+and without farther pause, I proceeded to carry it out.
+
+I saw that the vultures had espied the body of the doe, where it lay
+across my shoulders.  That was why they were hovering above me.  My plan
+was simple enough.  I laid the carcass upon the earth; and, taking my
+rifle, walked away towards the timber.
+
+Trees grew at fifty yards' distance from where I had placed the doe; and
+behind the nearest of these I took my stand.
+
+I had not long to wait.  The unconscious birds wheeled lower and lower,
+and at length one alighted on the earth.  Its companion had not time to
+join it before the rifle cracked, and laid the beautiful creature
+lifeless upon the grass.
+
+The other, frighted by the sound, rose higher and higher, and then flew
+away over the tops of the cypresses.
+
+Again I shouldered my venison; and carrying the bird in my hand started
+homeward.
+
+My heart was full of exultation.  I anticipated a double pleasure--from
+the double pleasure I was to create.  I should make happy the two beings
+that, of all on earth, were dearest to me--my fond mother, my beautiful
+sister.
+
+I soon recrossed the savanna, and entered the orangery.  I did not stay
+to go round by the wicket, but climbed over the fence at its lower end.
+So happy was I that my load felt light as a feather.  Exultingly I
+strode forward, dashing the loaded boughs from my path.  I sent their
+golden globes rolling hither and thither.  What mattered a bushel of
+oranges?
+
+I reached the parterre.  My mother was in the verandah; she saw me as I
+approached, and uttered an exclamation of joy.  I flung the spoils of
+the chase at her feet.  I had kept my promise.
+
+"What is that?--a bird?"
+
+"Yes the king vulture--a present for Virgine.  Where is she?  Not up
+yet?  Ha! the little sluggard--I shall soon arouse her.  Still abed and
+on such a beautiful morning!"
+
+"You wrong her, George; she has been up on hour or more.  She has been
+playing; and has just this moment left off."
+
+"But where is she now?  In the drawing-room?"
+
+"No; she has gone to the bath."
+
+"To _the bath_!"
+
+"Yes, she and Viola.  What--"
+
+"O mother--mother--"
+
+"Tell me, George--"
+
+"O heavens--_the alligator_!"
+
+
+
+CHAPTER NINE.
+
+THE BATH.
+
+"Yellow Jake! the alligator!"
+
+They were all the words I could utter.  My mother entreated an
+explanation; I could not stay to give it.  Frantic with apprehension, I
+tore myself away, leaving her in a state of terror that rivalled my own.
+
+I ran towards the hommock--the bath.  I wait not to follow the devious
+route of the walk, but keep straight on, leaping over such obstacles as
+present themselves.  I spring across the paling, and rush through the
+orangery, causing the branches to crackle and the fruit to fall.  My
+ears are keenly bent to catch every sound.
+
+Behind are sounds enough: I hear my mother's voice uttered in accents of
+terror.  Already have her cries alarmed the house, and are echoed and
+answered by the domestics, both females and men.  Dogs, startled by the
+sudden excitement, are baying within the enclosure, and fowls and caged
+birds screech in concert.
+
+From behind come all these noises.  It is not for them my ears are bent;
+I am listening _before_ me.
+
+In this direction I now hear sounds.  The plashing of water is in my
+ears, and mingling with the tones of a clear silvery voice--it is the
+voice of my sister!  "Ha, ha, ha!"  The ring of laughter!  Thank Heaven,
+she is safe!
+
+I stay my step under the influence of a delicate thought; I call aloud:
+
+"Virgine!  Virgine!"
+
+Impatiently I wait the reply.  None reaches me; the noise of the water
+has drowned my voice!
+
+I call again, and louder: "Virgine! sister!  Virgine!"
+
+I am heard, and hear:
+
+"Who calls?  You, Georgy?"
+
+"Yes; it is I, Virgine."
+
+"And pray, what want you, brother?"
+
+"O sister! come out of the bath."
+
+"For what reason should I?  Our friends come?  They are early: let them
+wait, my Georgy.  Go you and entertain them.  I mean to enjoy myself
+this most beautiful of mornings; the water's just right--delightful!
+Isn't it, Viola?  Ho!  I shall have a swim round the pond: here goes?"
+
+And then there was a fresh plashing in the water, mingled with a
+cheerful abandon of laughter in the voices of my sister and her maid.
+
+I shouted at the top of my voice:
+
+"Hear me, Virgine, dear sister!  For Heaven's sake, come out! come--"
+
+There was a sudden cessation of the merry tones; then came a short sharp
+ejaculation, followed almost instantaneously by a wild scream.  I
+perceived that neither was a reply to my appeal.  I had called out in a
+tone of entreaty sufficient to have raised apprehension; but the voices
+that now reached me were uttered in accents of terror.  In my sister's
+voice I heard the words:
+
+"See, Viola!  O mercy--the monster!  Ha! he is coming this way!  O
+mercy!  Help, George, help!  Save--save me!"
+
+Well knew I the meaning of the summons; too well could I comprehend the
+half-coherent words, and the continued screaming that succeeded them.
+
+"Sister, I come, I come!"
+
+Quick as thought, I dashed forward, breaking through the boughs that
+still intercepted my view.
+
+"Oh, perhaps I shall be too late!  She screams in agony; she is already
+in the grasp of the alligator?"
+
+A dozen bounds carried me clear of the grove; and, gliding along the
+embankment of the turtle-crawl, I stood by the edge of the tank.  A
+fearful tableau was before me.
+
+My sister was near the centre of the basin, swimming towards the edge.
+There stood the quadroon--knee deep--screeching and flinging her arms
+frantically in the air.  Beyond, appeared the gigantic lizard; his whole
+body, arms, hands, and claws clearly traceable in the pellucid water,
+above the surface of which rose the scaly serrature of his back and
+shoulders.  His snout and tail projected still higher; and with the
+latter he was lashing the water into white froth, that already mottled
+the surface of the pond.  He was not ten feet from his intended victim.
+His gaunt jaws almost touched the green baize skirt that floated
+train-like behind her.  At any moment, he might have darted forward and
+seized her.
+
+My sister was swimming with all her might.  She was a capital swimmer;
+but what could it avail?  Her bathing-dress was impeding her; but what
+mattered that?  The alligator might have seized her at any moment; with
+a single effort, could have caught her, and yet he had not made it.
+
+I wondered why he had not; I wondered that he still held back.  I wonder
+to this hour, for it is not yet explained.  I can account for it only on
+one supposition: that he felt that his victim was perfectly within his
+power; and as the cat cajoles with the mouse, so was he indulging in the
+plenitude of his tyrant strength.
+
+These observations were made in a single second of time--while I was
+cocking my rifle.
+
+I aimed, and fired.  There were but two places where the shot could have
+proved fatal--the eye or behind the forearm.  I aimed for the eye.  I
+hit the shoulder; but from that hard corrugated skin, my bullet glinted
+as from a granite rock.  Among the rhomboid protuberances it made a
+whitish score, and that was all.
+
+The play of the monster was brought to a termination.  The shot appeared
+to have given him pain.  At all events, it roused him to more earnest
+action, and perhaps impelled him to the final spring.  He made it the
+instant after.
+
+Lashing the water with his broad tail--as if to gain impetus--he darted
+forward; his huge jaw hinged vertically upward, till the red throat
+showed wide agape; and the next moment the floating skirt--and oh! the
+limbs of my sister, were in his horrid gripe!
+
+I plunged in, and swam towards them.  The gun I still carried in my
+grasp.  It hindered me.  I dropped it to the bottom, and swam on.
+
+I caught Virgine in my arms.  I was just in time, for the alligator was
+dragging her below.
+
+With all my strength, I held her up.  It needed all to keep us above the
+surface.  I had no weapon; and if I had been armed, I could not have
+spared a hand to strike.
+
+I shouted with all my voice, in the hope of intimidating the assailant,
+and causing him to let go his hold.  It was to no purpose: he still held
+on.
+
+O Heavens! we shall both be dragged under--drowned--devoured--
+
+A plunge, as of one leaping from a high elevation into the pond--a
+quick, bold swimmer from the shore--a dark-skinned face, with long black
+hair that floats behind it on the water--a breast gleaming with bright
+spangles--a body clad in bead-embroidered garments--a man? a boy!
+
+Who is this strange youth that rushes to our rescue?
+
+He is already by our side--by the side of our terrible antagonist.  With
+all the earnest energy of his look, he utters not a word.  He rests one
+hand upon the shoulder of the huge lizard, and with a sudden spring
+places himself upon its back.  A rider could not have leaped more
+adroitly to the saddle.
+
+A knife gleams in his uplifted hand.  It descends--its blade is buried
+in the eye of the alligator!
+
+The roar of the saurian betokens its pain.  The earth vibrates with the
+sound; the froth flies up under the lashings of its tail, and a cloud of
+spray is flung over us.  But the monster has now relaxed its gripe, and
+I am swimming with my sister to the shore.
+
+A glance backward reveals to me a strange sight--I see the alligator
+diving to the bottom with the bold rider upon its back!  He is lost--he
+is lost!
+
+With painful thoughts, I swim on.  I climb out, and place my fainting
+sister upon the bank.  I again look back.
+
+Joy, joy! the strange youth is once more above the surface, and swimming
+freely to the shore.  Upon the further side of the pond, the hideous
+form is also above water, struggling by the edge--frantic and furious
+with the agony of its wounds.
+
+Joy, joy! my sister is unharmed.  The floating skirt has saved her;
+scarcely a scratch shows upon her delicate limbs; and now in tender
+arms, amidst sweet words and looks of kind sympathy, she is borne away
+from the scene of her peril.
+
+
+
+CHAPTER TEN.
+
+THE "HALF-BLOOD."
+
+The alligator was soon clubbed to death, and dragged to the shore--a
+work of delight to the blacks of the plantation.
+
+No one suspected how the reptile had got to the pond--for I had not said
+a word to any one.  The belief was that it had wandered there from the
+river, or the lagoons--as others had done before; and Yellow Jake, the
+most active of all in its destruction, was heard several times repeating
+this hypothesis!  Little did the villain suspect that his secret was
+known.  I thought that besides himself I was the only one privy to it;
+in this, however, I was mistaken.
+
+The domestics had gone back to the house, "toating" the huge carcass
+with ropes, and uttering shouts of triumph.  I was alone with our
+gallant preserver.  I stayed behind purposely to thank him.
+
+Mother, father, all had given expression to their gratitude; all had
+signified their admiration of his gallant conduct: even my sister, who
+had recovered consciousness before being carried away, had thanked him
+with kind words.
+
+He made no reply, further than to acknowledge the compliments paid him;
+and this he did either by a smile or a simple inclination of the head.
+With the years of a boy, he seemed to possess the gravity of a man.
+
+He appeared about my own age and size.  His figure was perfectly
+proportioned, and his face handsome.  The complexion was not that of a
+pure Indian, though the style of his dress was so.  His skin was nearer
+brunette than bronze: he was evidently a "half-blood."
+
+His nose was slightly aquiline, which gave him that fine eagle-look
+peculiar to some of the North American tribes; and his eye, though mild
+in common mood, was easily lighted up.  Under excitement, as I had just
+witnessed, it shone with the brilliancy of fire.
+
+The admixture of Caucasian blood had tamed down the prominence of Indian
+features to a perfect regularity, without robbing them of their heroic
+grandeur of expression; and the black hair was finer than that of the
+pure native, though equally shining and luxuriant.  In short, the _tout
+ensemble_ of this strange youth was that of a noble and handsome boy
+that another brace of summers would develop into a splendid-looking man.
+Even as a boy, there was an individuality about him, that, when once
+seen, was not to be forgotten.
+
+I have said that his costume was Indian.  So was it--purely Indian--not
+made up altogether of the spoils of the chase, for the buckskin has
+long, ceased to be the wear of the aborigines of Florida.  His moccasins
+alone were of dressed deer's hide; his leggings were of scarlet cloth;
+and his tunic of figured cotton stuff--all three elaborately beaded and
+embroidered.  With these he wore a wampum belt, and a fillet encircled
+his head, above which rose erect three plumes from the tail of the king
+vulture--which among Indians is an _eagle_.  Around his neck were
+strings of party-coloured beads, and upon his breast three demi-lunes of
+silver, suspended one above the other.
+
+Thus was the youth attired, and, despite the soaking which his garments
+had received, he presented an aspect as once noble and picturesque.
+
+"You are sure you have received no injury?"  I inquired for the second
+time.
+
+"Quite sure--not the slightest injury."
+
+"But you are wet through and through; let me offer you a change of
+clothes: mine, I think, would about fit you."
+
+"Thank you.  I should not know how to wear them.  The sun is strong: my
+own will soon be dry again."
+
+"You will come up to the house, and eat something?"
+
+"I have eaten but a short while ago.  I thank you.  I am not in need."
+
+"Some wine?"
+
+"Again I thank you--water is my only drink."
+
+I scarcely knew what to say to my new acquaintance.  He refused all my
+offers of hospitality, and yet he remained by me.  He would not
+accompany me to the house; and still he showed no signs of taking his
+departure.
+
+Was he expecting something else?  A reward for his services?  Something
+more substantial than complimentary phrases?
+
+The thought was not unnatural.  Handsome as was the youth, he was but an
+Indian.  Of compliments he had had enough.  Indians care little for idle
+words.  It might be that he waited for something more; it was but
+natural for one in his condition to do so, and equally natural for one
+in mine to think so.
+
+In an instant my purse was out; in the next it was in his hands--and in
+the next it was at the bottom of the pond!
+
+"I did not ask you for money," said he, as he flung the dollars
+indignantly into the water.
+
+I felt pique and shame; the latter predominated.  I plunged into the
+pond, and dived under the surface.  It was not after my purse, but my
+rifle, which I saw lying upon the rocks at the bottom.  I gained the
+piece, and, carrying it ashore, handed it to him.
+
+The peculiar smile with which he received it, told me that I had well
+corrected my error, and subdued the capricious pride of the singular
+youth.
+
+"It is my turn to make reparation," said he.  "Permit me to restore you
+your purse, and to ask pardon for my rudeness."
+
+Before I could interpose, he sprang into the water, and dived below the
+surface.  He soon recovered the shining object, and returning to the
+bank, placed it in my hands.
+
+"This is a splendid gift," he said, handling the rifle, and examining
+it--"a splendid gift; and I must return home before I can offer you
+aught in return.  We Indians have not much that the white man values--
+only _our lands_, I have been told,"--he uttered this phrase with
+peculiar emphasis.  "Our rude manufactures," continued he, "are
+worthless things when put in comparison with those of your people--they
+are but curiosities to you at best.  But stay--you are a hunter?  Will
+you accept a pair of moccasins and a bullet-pouch?  Maumee makes them
+well--"
+
+"Maumee?"
+
+"My sister.  You will find the moccasin better for hunting than those
+heavy shoes you wear: the tread is more silent."
+
+"Above all things, I should like to have a pair of your moccasins."
+
+"I am rejoiced that it will gratify you.  Maumee shall make them, and
+the pouch too."
+
+"Maumee!"  I mentally echoed.  "Strange, sweet name!  Can it be she?"
+
+I was thinking of a bright being that had crossed my path--a dream--a
+heavenly vision--for it seemed too lovely to be of the earth.
+
+While wandering in the woods, amid perfumed groves, had this vision
+appeared to me in the form of an Indian maiden.  In a flowery glade, I
+saw her--one of those spots in the southern forest which nature adorns
+so profusely.  She appeared to form part of the picture.
+
+One glance had I, and she was gone.  I pursued, but to no purpose.  Like
+a spirit she glided through the daedalian aisles of the grove, and I saw
+her no more.  But though gone from my sight, she passed not out of my
+memory; ever since had I been dreaming of that lovely apparition.  "Was
+it Maumee?"
+
+"Your name?"  I inquired, as I saw the youth was about to depart.
+
+"I am called Powell by the whites: my father's name--he was white--he is
+dead.  My mother still lives; I need not say she is an Indian."
+
+"I must be gone, sir," continued he after a pause.  "Before I leave you,
+permit me to put a question.  It may appear impertinent, but I have good
+reason for asking it.  Have you among your slaves one who is very bad,
+one who is hostile to your family?"
+
+"There is such a one.  I have reason to believe it."
+
+"Would you know his tracks?"
+
+"I should."
+
+"Then follow me!"
+
+"It is not necessary.  I can guess where you would lead me.  I know all:
+he lured the alligator hither to destroy my sister."
+
+"Ugh!" exclaimed the young Indian, in some surprise.  "How learned you
+this, sir?"
+
+"From yonder rock, I was a witness of the whole transaction.  But how
+did _you_ come to know of it?"  I asked in turn.
+
+"Only by following the trail--the man--the dog--the alligator.  I was
+hunting by the swamp.  I saw the tracks.  I suspected something, and
+crossed the fields.  I had reached the thicket when I heard cries.  I
+was just in time.  Ugh!"
+
+"You were in good time, else the villain would have succeeded in his
+intent.  Fear not, friend, he shall be punished."
+
+"Good--he should be punished.  I hope you and I may meet again."
+
+A few words more were exchanged between us, and then we shook hands, and
+parted.
+
+
+
+CHAPTER ELEVEN.
+
+THE CHASE.
+
+About the guilt of the mulatto, I had no longer any doubt.  The mere
+destruction of the fish could not have been his design; he would never
+have taken such pains to accomplish so trifling a purpose.  No; his
+intent was far more horrid; it comprehended a deeper scheme of cruelty
+and vengeance; its aim was my sister's life!--Viola's!--perhaps both?
+
+Awful as was such a belief, there was no room left to doubt it; every
+circumstance confirmed it.  Even the young Indian had formed the opinion
+that such was the design.  At this season, my sister was in the habit of
+bathing almost every day; and that this was her custom was known to all
+upon the plantation.  _I_ had not thought of it when I went in pursuit
+of the deer, else I should in all probability have acted in a different
+manner.  But who could have suspected such dire villainy?
+
+The cunning of the act quite equalled its malice.  By the merest
+accident, there were witnesses; but had there been none, it is probable
+the event would have answered the intention, and my sister's life been
+sacrificed.
+
+Who could have told the author of the crime?  The reptile would have
+been alone responsible.  Even suspicion would not have rested upon the
+mulatto--how could it?  The yellow villain had shown a fiendish craft in
+his calculation.
+
+I was burning with indignation.  My poor innocent sister!  Little did
+she know the foul means that had been made use of to put her in such
+peril.  She was aware that the mulatto liked her not, but never dreamed
+she that she was the object of such a demoniac spite as this.
+
+The very thoughts of it fired me as I dwelt upon them.  I could restrain
+myself no longer.  The criminal must be brought to punishment, and at
+once.  Some severe castigation must be inflicted upon him--something
+that would place it beyond his power to repeat such dangerous attempts.
+
+How he would be dealt with, I could not tell--that must be left to my
+elders to determine.  The lash had proved of no avail; perhaps the
+chain-gang would cure him--at all events, he must be banished the
+plantation.
+
+In my own mind, I had not doomed him to death, though truly he deserved
+it.  Indignant as I felt, I did not contemplate this ultimate punishment
+of crime; used to my father's mild rule, I did not.  The lash--the
+county prison--the chain-gang at Saint Marks or San Augustine: some of
+these would likely be his reward.
+
+I knew it would not be left to the lenient disposition of my father to
+decide.  The whole community of planters was interested in a matter of
+this kind.  An improvised jury would soon assemble.  No doubt harsher
+judges than his own master would deal with the guilty man.
+
+I stayed not longer to reflect; I was determined his trial should be
+immediate.  I ran towards the house with the intention of declaring his
+guilt.
+
+In my haste, as before, I did not follow the usual path, which was
+somewhat circumambient: I made direct through the grove.
+
+I had advanced only a few paces, when I heard a rustling of the leaves
+near me.  I could see no one, but felt sure that the noise was caused by
+some person skulking among the trees.  Perhaps one of the field-hands,
+taking advantage of the confusion of the hour, and helping himself to a
+few oranges.
+
+Compared with my purpose, such slight dereliction was a matter of no
+importance, and I did not think worth while to stay and hinder it.  I
+only shouted out; but no one made answer, and I kept on.
+
+On arriving at the rear of the house, I found my father in the enclosure
+by the grand shed--the overseer too.  Old Hickman, the alligator-hunter,
+was there, and one or two other white men, who had casually come upon
+business.
+
+In the presence of all, I made the disclosure; and, with as much
+minuteness as the time would permit, described the strange transaction I
+had witnessed in the morning.
+
+All were thunderstruck.  Hickman at once declared the probability of
+such a manoeuvre, though no one doubted my words.  The only doubt was as
+to the mulatto's intent.  Could it have been human lives he designed to
+sacrifice?  It seemed too great a wickedness to be believed.  It was too
+horrible even to be imagined!
+
+At that moment all doubts were set at rest.  Another testimony was added
+to mine, which supplied the link of proof that was wanting.  Black Jake
+had a tale to tell, and told it.
+
+That morning--but half an hour before--he had seen Yellow Jake climb up
+into a live-oak that stood in one corner of the enclosure.  The top of
+this commanded a view of the pond.  It was just at the time that "white
+missa" and Viola went to the bath.  He was quite sure that about that
+time they must have been going into the water, and that Yellow Jake
+_must have seen them_.
+
+Indignant at his indecorous conduct, the black had shouted to the
+mulatto to come down from the tree, and threatened to complain upon him.
+The latter made answer that he was only gathering acorns--the acorns of
+the live-oak are sweet food, and much sought after by the
+plantation-people.  Black Jake, however, was positive that this could
+not be Yellow Jake's purpose; for the former still continuing to
+threaten, the latter at length came down, and Black Jake saw no acorns--
+not one!
+
+"Twan't acorn he war arter, Massa Randoff: daat yaller loafa wan't arter
+no good--daat he wan't sure sartin."
+
+So concluded the testimony of the groom.
+
+The tale produced conviction in the minds of all.  It was no longer
+possible to doubt of the mulatto's intention, horrible as it was.  He
+had ascended the tree to be witness of the foul deed; he had seen them
+enter the basin; he knew the danger that was lurking in its waters; and
+yet he had made no movement to give the alarm.  On the contrary, he was
+among the last who had hastened towards the pond, when the screaming of
+the girls was summoning all the household to their assistance.  This was
+shown by the evidence of others.  The case was clear against him.
+
+The tale produced a wild excitement.  White men and black men, masters
+and slaves, were equally indignant at the horrid crime; and the cry went
+round the yard for "Yellow Jake!"
+
+Some ran one way, some another, in search of him--black, white, and
+yellow ran together--all eager in the pursuit--all desirous that such a
+monster should be brought to punishment.
+
+Where was he?  His name was called aloud, over and over again, with
+commands, with threats; but no answer came back.  Where was he?
+
+The stables were searched, the shed, the kitchen, the cabins--even the
+corn-crib was ransacked--but to no purpose.  Where had he gone?
+
+He had been observed but the moment before--he had assisted in dragging
+the alligator.  The men had brought it into the enclosure, and thrown it
+to the hogs to be devoured.  Yellow Jake had been with them, active as
+any at the work.  It was but the moment before he had gone away; but
+where?  No one could tell!
+
+At this moment, I remembered the rustling among the orange-trees.  It
+might have been he!  If so, he may have overheard the conversation
+between the young Indian and myself--or the last part of it--and if so,
+he would now be far away.
+
+I led the pursuit through the orangery: its recesses were searched; he
+was not there.
+
+The hommock thickets were next entered, and beaten from one end to the
+other; still no signs of the missing mulatto.
+
+It occurred to me to climb up to the rock, my former place of
+observation.  I ascended at once to its summit, and was rewarded for my
+trouble.  At the first glance over the fields, I saw the fugitive.  He
+was down between the rows of the indigo plants, crawling upon hands and
+knees, evidently making for the maize.
+
+I did not stay to observe further, but springing back to the ground, I
+ran after him.  My father, Hickman, and others followed me.
+
+The chase was not conducted in silence--no stratagem was used, and by
+our shouts the mulatto soon learned that he was seen and pursued.
+Concealment was no longer possible; and rising to his feet, he ran
+forward with all his speed.  He soon entered the maize-field, with the
+hue and cry close upon his heels.
+
+Though still but a boy, I was the fastest runner of the party.  I knew
+that I could run faster than Yellow Jake, and if I could only keep him
+in sight, I should soon overtake him.  His hopes were to get into the
+swamp, under cover of the palmetto thickets; once there, he might easily
+escape by hiding--at all events, he might get off for the time.
+
+To prevent this, I ran at my utmost speed, and with success; for just
+upon the edge of the woods, I came up with the runaway, and caught hold
+of the loose flap of his jacket.
+
+It was altogether a foolish attempt upon my part.  I had not reflected
+upon anything beyond getting up with him.  I had never thought of
+resistance, though I might have expected it from a desperate man.
+Accustomed to be obeyed, I was under the hallucination that, as soon as
+I should come up, the fellow would yield to me; but I was mistaken.
+
+He at once jerked himself free of my hold, and easily enough.  My breath
+was gone, my strength exhausted--I could not have held a cat.
+
+I expected him to run on as before; but instead of doing so, he stopped
+in his tracks, turned fiercely upon me, and drawing his knife, he
+plunged it through my arm.  It was my heart he had aimed at; but by
+suddenly throwing up my arm, I had warded off the fatal thrust.
+
+A second time his knife was upraised--and I should have had a second
+stab from it--but, just then, another face showed itself in the fray;
+and before the dangerous blade could descend, the strong arms of Black
+Jake were around my antagonist.
+
+The fiend struggled fiercely to free himself; but the muscular grasp of
+his old rival never became relaxed until Hickman and others arrived upon
+the ground; and then a fast binding of thongs rendered him at once
+harmless and secure.
+
+
+
+CHAPTER TWELVE.
+
+A SEVERE SENTENCE.
+
+Such a series of violent incidents of course created excitement beyond
+our own boundaries.  There was a group of plantations upon the river
+lying side by side, and all having a frontage upon the water; they
+formed the "settlement."  Through these ran the report, spreading like
+wildfire; and within the hour, white men could be seen coming from every
+direction.  Some were on foot--poor hunters who dwelt on the skirts of
+the large plantations; others--the planters themselves, or their
+overseers--on horseback.  All carried weapons--rifles and pistols.  A
+stranger might have supposed it the rendezvous of a militia "muster,"
+but the serious looks of those who assembled gave it a different aspect:
+it more resembled the gathering of the frontier men upon the report of
+some Indian invasion.
+
+In one hour, more than fifty white men were upon the ground--nearly all
+who belonged to the settlement.
+
+A jury was quickly formed, and Yellow Jake put upon his trial.  There
+was no law in the proceedings, though legal formality was followed in a
+certain rude way.  These jurors were themselves sovereign--they were the
+lords of the land, and, in cases like this, could easily _improvise_ a
+judge.  They soon found one in planter Ringgold, our adjoining
+neighbour.  My father declined to take part in the proceedings.
+
+The trial was rapidly gone through with.  The facts were fresh and
+clear; I was before their eyes with my arm in a sling, badly cut.  The
+other circumstances which led to this result were all detailed.  The
+chain of guilt was complete.  The mulatto had attempted the lives of
+white people.  Of course, death was the decree.
+
+What mode of death?  Some voted for hanging; but by most of these men,
+hanging was deemed too mild.  _Burning_ met the approbation of the
+majority.  The judge himself cast his vote for the severer sentence.
+
+My father plead mercy--at least so far as to spare the torture--but the
+stern jurors would not listen to him.  They had all lost slaves of
+late--many runaways had been reported--the proximity of the Indians gave
+encouragement to defection.  They charged my father with too much
+leniency--the settlement needed an example--they would make one of
+Yellow Jake, that would deter all who were disposed to imitate him.  His
+sentence was, that he should be _burnt alive_!
+
+Thus did they reason, and thus did they pronounce.
+
+It is a grand error to suppose that the Indians of North America have
+been peculiar in the habit of torturing their captive foes.  In most
+well-authenticated cases, where cruelty has been practised by them,
+there has been a provocative deed of anterior date--some grievous
+wrong--and the torture was but a retaliation.  Human nature has yielded
+to the temptings of revenge in all ages--and ferocity can be charged
+with as much justice against white skin as against red skin.  Had the
+Indians written the story of border warfare, the world might have
+modified its belief in their so called cruelty.
+
+It is doubtful if, in all their history, instances of ferocity can be
+found that will parallel those often perpetrated by white men upon
+blacks--many of whom have suffered mutilation--torture--death--for the
+mere offence of a word! certainly often for a blow, since such is a
+written law!
+
+Where the Indians have practised cruelty, it has almost always been in
+retaliation; but civilised tyrants have put men to the torture without
+even the palliating apology of vengeance.  If there was revenge, it was
+not of that natural kind to which the human heart gives way, when it
+conceives deep wrong has been done; but rather a mean spite, such as is
+often exhibited by the dastard despot towards some weak individual
+within his power.
+
+No doubt, Yellow Jake deserved death.  His crimes were capital ones; but
+to _torture_ him was the will of his judges.
+
+My father opposed it, and a few others.  They were outvoted and
+overruled.  The awful sentence was passed; and they who had decreed it
+at once set about carrying it into execution.
+
+It was not a fit scene to be enacted upon a gentleman's premises; and a
+spot was selected at some distance from the house, further down the
+lake-edge.  To this place the criminal was conducted--the crowd of
+course following.
+
+Some two hundred yards from the bank, a tree was chosen as the place of
+execution.  To this tree the condemned was to be bound, and a log-fire
+kindled around him.
+
+My father would not witness the execution; I alone of oor family
+followed to the scene.  The mulatto saw me, and accosted me with words
+of rage.  He even taunted me about the wound he had given, glorying in
+the deed.  He was no doubt under the belief that I was one of his
+greatest foes.  I had certainly been the innocent witness of his crime,
+and chiefly through my testimony, he had been condemned; but I was not
+revengeful.  I would have spared him the terrible fate he was about to
+undergo--at least its tortures.
+
+We arrived upon the ground.  Men were already before us, collecting the
+logs, and piling them up around the trunk of the tree; others were
+striking a fire.  Some joked and laughed; a few were heard giving
+utterance to expressions of hate for the whole coloured race.
+
+Young Ringgold was especially active.  This was a wild youth--on the eve
+of manhood, of somewhat fierce, harsh temper--a family characteristic.
+
+I knew that the young fellow affected my sister Virginia; I had often
+noticed his partiality for her; and he could scarcely conceal his
+jealousy of others who came near her.  His father was the richest
+planter in the settlement; and the son, proud of this superiority,
+believed himself welcome everywhere.  I did not think he was very
+welcome with Virgine, though I could not tell.  It was too delicate a
+point upon which to question her, for the little dame already esteemed
+herself a woman.
+
+Ringgold was neither handsome nor graceful.  He was sufficiently
+intelligent, but overbearing to those beneath him in station--not an
+uncommon fault among the sons of rich men.  He had already gained the
+character of being resentful.  In addition to all, he was dissipated--
+too often found with low company in the forest cock-pit.
+
+For my part, I did not like him.  I never cared to be with him as a
+companion; he was older than myself, but it was not that--I did not like
+his disposition.  Not so my father and mother.  By both was he
+encouraged to frequent our house.  Both probably desired him for a
+future son-in-law.  They saw no faults in him.  The glitter of gold has
+a blinding influence upon the moral eye.
+
+This young man, then, was one of the most eager for the punishment of
+the mulatto, and active in the preparations.  His activity arose partly
+from a natural disposition to be cruel.  Both he and his father were
+noted as hard task-masters, and to be "sold to Mass' Ringgold" was a
+fate dreaded by every slave in the settlement.
+
+But young Ringgold had another motive for his conspicuous behaviour: he
+fancied he was playing the knight-errant, by this show of friendship for
+our family--for Virginia.  He was mistaken.  Such unnecessary cruelty to
+the criminal met the approbation of none of us.  It was not likely to
+purchase a smile from my good sister.
+
+The young half-blood, Powell, was also present.  On hearing the hue and
+cry, he had returned, and now stood in the crowd looking on, but taking
+no part in the proceedings.
+
+Just then the eye of Ringgold rested upon the Indian boy, and I could
+perceive that it was instantly lit up by a strange expression.  He was
+already in possession of all the details.  He saw in the dark-skinned
+youth, the gallant preserver of Virginia's life, but it was not with
+gratitude that he viewed him.  Another feeling was working in his
+breast, as could plainly be perceived by the scornful curl that played
+upon his lips.
+
+More plainly still by the rude speech that followed:
+
+"Hilloa! redskin!" he cried out, addressing himself to the young Indian,
+"you're sure _you_ had no hand in this business? eh, redskin?"
+
+"Redskin!" exclaimed the half-blood in a tone of indignation, at the
+same time fronting proudly to his insulter--"Redskin you call me?  My
+skin is of better colour than yours, you white-livered lout!"
+
+Ringgold was rather of a sallow complexion.  The blow hit home.  Not
+quicker is the flash of powder than was its effect; but his astonishment
+at being thus accosted by an Indian, combined with his rage, hindered
+him for some moments from making reply.
+
+Others were before him and cried out:
+
+"O Lordy! such talk from an Injun!"
+
+"Say that again!" cried Ringgold, as soon as he had recovered himself.
+
+"Again if you wish--white-livered lout!" cried the half-blood, giving
+full emphasis to the phrase.
+
+The words were scarcely out before Ringgold's pistol cracked; but the
+bullet missed its aim; and next moment the two clinched, seizing each
+other by the throats.
+
+Both came to the ground, but the half-blood had the advantage.  He was
+uppermost, and no doubt would quickly have despatched his white
+antagonist--for the ready blade was gleaming in his grasp--but the knife
+was struck out of his hand; and a crowd of men rushing to the spot,
+pulled the combatants apart.
+
+Some were loud against the Indian lad, and called for his life; but
+there were others with finer ideas of fair play, who had witnessed the
+provocation, and despite the power of the Ringgolds, would not suffer
+him to be sacrificed.  I had resolved to protect him as far as I was
+able.
+
+What would have been the result, it is difficult to guess; but, at that
+crisis, a sudden diversion was produced by the cry--that _Yellow Jake
+had escaped_!
+
+
+
+CHAPTER THIRTEEN.
+
+THE CHASE.
+
+I looked around.  Sure enough the mulatto was making off.
+
+The rencontre between Ringgold and the Indian monopolised attention, and
+the criminal was for the moment forgotten.  The knife knocked out of
+Powell's hand had fallen at the feet of Yellow Jake.  Unobserved in the
+confusion he had snatched it up, cut the fastenings from his limbs, and
+glided off before any one could intercept him.  Several clutched at him
+as he passed through the straggled groups; but, being naked, he was able
+to glide out of their grasp, and in a dozen bounds he had cleared the
+crowd, and was running towards the shore of the lake.
+
+It seemed a mad attempt--he would be shot down or overtaken.  Even so;
+it was not madness to fly from certain death--and such a death.
+
+Shots were ringing; at first they were the reports of pistols.  The guns
+had been laid aside, and were leaning against trees and the adjacent
+fence.
+
+Their owners now ran to seize them.  One after another was levelled; and
+then followed a sharp rapid cracking, like file-firing from a corps of
+riflemen.
+
+There may have been good marksmen among the party--there were some of
+the best--but a man running for his life, and bounding from side to
+side, to avoid the stumps and bushes, offers but a very uncertain mark;
+and the best shot may miss.
+
+So it appeared on this occasion.  After the last rifle rang, the runaway
+was still seen keeping his onward course, apparently unscathed.
+
+The moment after, he plunged into the water, and swam boldly out from
+the shore.
+
+Some set to reloading their guns; others, despairing of the time, flung
+them away; and hastily pulling off hats, coats, boots, rushed down to
+the lake, and plunged in after the fugitive.
+
+In less than three minutes from the time that the mulatto started off, a
+new tableau was formed.  The spot that was to have been the scene of
+execution was completely deserted.  One half the crowd was down by the
+shore, shouting and gesticulating; the other half--full twenty in all--
+had taken to the water, and were swimming in perfect silence--their
+heads alone showing above the surface.  Away beyond--full fifty paces in
+advance of the foremost--appeared that solitary swimmer--the object of
+pursuit; his head of black tangled curls conspicuous above the water,
+and now and then the yellow neck and shoulder, as he forged forward in
+the desperate struggle for life.
+
+Strange tableau it was; and bore strong resemblance to a deer-hunt--when
+the stag, close-pressed, takes to the water; and the hounds, in full
+cry, plunge boldly after--but in this chase were the elements of a still
+grander excitement--both the quarry and the pack were human.
+
+Not all human--there were dogs as well--hounds and mastiffs mingled
+among the men--side by side with their masters in the eager purpose of
+pursuit.  A strange tableau indeed!
+
+Stray shots were still fired from the shore.  Rifles had been reloaded
+by those who remained; and now and then the plash of the tiny pellet
+could be seen, where it struck the water far short of the distant
+swimmer.  He needed no longer have a dread of danger from that source;
+he was beyond the range of the rifles.
+
+The whole scene had the semblance of a dream.  So sudden had been the
+change of events, I could scarcely give credit to my senses, and believe
+it a reality.  But the moment before, the criminal lay bound and
+helpless, beside him the pile upon which he was to be burnt--now was he
+swimming far and free, his executioners a hopeless distance behind him.
+Rapid had been the transformation--it hardly appeared real.
+Nevertheless, it _was_ real--it was before the eyes.
+
+A long time, too, before our eyes.  A chase in the water is a very
+different affair from a pursuit on dry land; and, notwithstanding there
+was life and death on the issue, slow was the progress both of pursuers
+and pursued.  For nearly half an hour we who remained upon the shore
+continued spectators of this singular contest.
+
+The frenzy of the first moments had passed away; but there was
+sufficient interest to sustain a strong excitement to the last; and some
+continued to shout and gesticulate, though neither their cries nor
+actions could in anywise influence the result.  No words of
+encouragement could have increased the speed of the pursuers; no threats
+were needed to urge forward the fugitive.
+
+We who remained inactive had time enough to reflect; and upon
+reflection, it became apparent why the runaway had taken to the water.
+Had he attempted to escape by the fields, he would have been pulled down
+by the dogs, or else overtaken by swift runners, for there were many
+swifter than he.  There were few better swimmers, however, and he knew
+it.  For this reason, then, had he preferred the water to the woods, and
+certainly his chances of escape seemed better.
+
+After all, he could _not_ escape.  The island for which he was making
+was about half a mile from the shore; but beyond was a stretch of clear
+water of more than a mile in width.  He would arrive at the island
+before any of his pursuers; but what then?  Did he purpose to remain
+there, in hopes of concealing himself among the bushes?  Its surface of
+several acres was covered with a thick growth of large trees.  Some
+stood close by the shore, their branches draped with silvery tillandsia,
+overhanging the water.  But what of this?  There might have been cover
+enough to have given shelter to a bear or a hunted wolf, but not to a
+hunted man--not to a slave who had drawn the knife upon his master.  No,
+no.  Every inch of the thicket would be searched: to escape by
+concealing himself he might not.
+
+Perhaps he only meant to use the island as a resting-place; and, after
+breathing himself, take once more to the water, and swim for the
+opposite shore.  It was possible for a strong swimmer to reach it; but
+it would not be possible for _him_.  There were skiffs and _pirogues_
+upon the river, both up and down.  Men had already gone after them; and,
+long before he could work his way across that wide reach, half-a-dozen
+keels would be cutting after him.  No, no--he could not escape: either
+upon the island, or in the water beyond, he would be captured.
+
+Thus reasoned the spectators, as they stood watching the pursuit.
+
+The excitement rose higher as the swimmers neared the island.  It is
+always so at the approach of a crisis; and a crisis was near, though not
+such a one as the spectators anticipated.  They looked to see the
+runaway reach the island, mount up the bank, and disappear among the
+trees.  They looked to see his pursuers climb out close upon his heels,
+and perhaps hear of his capture before he could cross through the
+timber, and take to the water on the other side.
+
+Some such crisis were they expecting; and it could not be distant, for
+the mulatto was now close into the edge of the island; a few strokes
+would bring him to the shore; he was swimming under the black shadows of
+the trees--it seemed as if the branches were over his head--as if he
+might have thrown up his hands and clutched them.
+
+The main body of his pursuers was still fifty yards in his rear; but
+some, who had forged ahead of the rest, were within half that distance.
+From where we viewed them, they seemed far nearer; in fact, it was easy
+to fancy that they were swimming alongside, and could have laid hands on
+him at any moment.
+
+The crisis was approaching, but not that which was looked for.  The
+pursuit was destined to a far different ending from that anticipated
+either by spectators or pursuers.  The pursued himself little dreamed of
+the doom that was so near--a doom awfully appropriate.
+
+The swimmer was cleaving his way across the belt of black shadow; we
+expected next moment to see him enter among the trees, when all at once
+he was seen to turn side towards us, and direct his course along the
+edge of the island!
+
+We observed this manoeuvre with some astonishment--we could not account
+for it; it was clearly to the advantage of his pursuers, who now swam in
+a diagonal line to intercept him.
+
+What could be his motive?  Had he failed to find a landing-place?  Even
+so, he might have clutched the branches, and by that means drawn himself
+ashore.
+
+Ha! our conjectures are answered; yonder is the answer; yonder brown log
+that floats on the black water is _not_ the trunk of a dead tree.  It is
+not dead; it has life and motion.  See! it assumes a form--the form of
+the great saurian--the hideous alligator!
+
+Its gaunt jaws are thrown up, its scolloped tail is erect, its breast
+alone rests upon the water.  On this as a pivot it spins round and
+round, brandishing its tail in the air, and at intervals lashing the
+spray aloft.  Its bellowing is echoed back from the distant shores; the
+lake vibrates under the hoarse baritone, the wood-birds flutter and cry,
+and the white crane mounts screaming into the air.
+
+The spectators stand aghast; the pursuers have poised themselves in the
+water, and advance no farther.  One solitary swimmer is seen struggling
+on; it is he who swims for his life.
+
+It is upon him the eyes of the alligator are fixed.  Why upon him more
+than the others!  They are all equally near.  Is it the hand of God who
+takes vengeance?
+
+Another revolution, another sweep of its strong tail, and the huge
+reptile rushes upon its victim.
+
+I have forgotten his crimes--I almost sympathise with him.  Is there no
+hope of his escape?
+
+See! he has grasped the branch of a live-oak; he is endeavouring to lift
+himself up--above the water--above the danger.  Heaven strengthen his
+arms!
+
+Ah! he will be too late; already the jaws--That crash?
+
+The branch has broken!
+
+He sinks back to the surface--below it.  He is out of sight--he has gone
+to the bottom! and after him, open-mouthed and eager, darts the gigantic
+lizard.  Both have disappeared from our view.
+
+The froth floats like a blanket upon the waves, clouting the leaves on
+the broken branch.
+
+We watch with eager eyes.  Not a ripple escapes unnoted; but no new
+movement stirs the surface, no motion is observed, no form comes up; and
+the waves soon flatten over the spot.
+
+Beyond a doubt the reptile has finished its work.
+
+Whose work?  Was it the hand of God who took vengeance?
+
+So they are saying round me.
+
+The pursuers have faced back, and are swimming towards us.  None cares
+to trust himself under the black shadows of those island oaks.  They
+will have a long swim before they can reach the shore, and some of them
+will scarcely accomplish it.  They are in danger; but no--yonder come
+the skiffs and pirogues that will soon pick them up.
+
+They have seen the boats, and swim slowly, or float upon the water,
+waiting their approach.
+
+They are taken in, one after another; and all--both dogs and men--are
+now carried to the island.
+
+They go to continue the search--for there is still some doubt as to the
+fate of the runaway.
+
+They land--the dogs are sent through the bushes, while the men glide
+round the edge to the scene of the struggle.  They find no track or
+trace upon the shore.
+
+But there is one upon the water.  Some froth still floats--there is a
+tinge of carmine upon it--beyond a doubt it is the blood of the mulatto.
+
+"All right, boys!" cries a rough fellow; "that's blueskin's blood, I'll
+sartify.  He's gone under an' no mistake.  Darn the varmint! it's clean
+spoilt our sport."
+
+The jest is received with shouts of boisterous laughter.
+
+In such a spirit talked the man-hunters, as they returned from the
+chase.
+
+
+
+CHAPTER FOURTEEN.
+
+RINGGOLD'S REVENGE.
+
+Only the ruder spirits indulged in this ill-timed levity; others of more
+refined nature regarded the incident with due solemnity--some even with
+a feeling of awe.
+
+Certainly it seemed as if the hand of God had interposed, so appropriate
+had been the punishment--almost as if the criminal had perished by his
+own contrivance.
+
+It was an awful death, but far less hard to endure than that which had
+been decreed by man.  The Almighty had been more merciful: and in thus
+mitigating the punishment of the guilty wretch, had rebuked his human
+judges.
+
+I looked around for the young Indian: I was gratified to find he was no
+longer among the crowd.  His quarrel with Ringgold had been broken off
+abruptly.  I had fears that it was not yet ended.  His words had
+irritated some of the white men, and it was through his being there, the
+criminal had found the opportunity to get off.  No doubt, had the latter
+finally escaped, there would have been more of it: and even as matters
+stood, I was not without apprehensions about the safety of the bold
+half-blood.  He was not upon his own ground--the other side of the river
+was the Indian territory; and, therefore, he might be deemed an
+intruder.  True, we were at peace with the Indians; but for all that,
+there was enough of hostile feeling between the two races.  Old wounds
+received in the war of 1818 still rankled.
+
+I knew Ringgold's resentful character--he had been humiliated in the
+eyes of his companions; for, during the short scuffle, the half-blood
+had the best of it.  Ringgold would not be content to let it drop--he
+would seek revenge.
+
+I was glad, therefore, on perceiving that the Indian had gone away from
+the ground.  Perhaps he had himself become apprehensive of danger, and
+recrossed the river.  There he would be safe from pursuit.  Even
+Ringgold dare not follow him to the other side, for the treaty laws
+could not have been outraged with impunity.  The most reckless of the
+squatters knew this.  An Indian war would have been provoked, and the
+supreme government, though not over scrupulous, had other views at the
+time.
+
+I was turning to proceed homeward, when it occurred to me that I would
+accost Ringgold, and signify to him my disapproval of his conduct.  I
+was indignant at the manner in which he had acted--just angry enough to
+speak my mind.  Ringgold was older than myself, and bigger; but I was
+not afraid of him.  On the contrary, I knew that he was rather afraid of
+_me_.  The insult he had offered to one who, but the hour before, had
+risked his life for us, had sufficiently roused my blood, and I was
+determined to reproach him for it.  With this intention, I turned back
+to look for him.  He was not there.
+
+"Have you seen Arens Ringgold?"  I inquired of old Hickman.
+
+"Yes--jest gone," was the reply.
+
+"In what direction?"
+
+"Up-river.  See 'im gallop off wi' Bill Williams an' Ned Spence--desprit
+keen upon somethin' they 'peered."
+
+A painful suspicion flashed across my mind.
+
+"Hickman," I asked, "will you lend me your horse for an hour?"
+
+"My old critter?  Sartin sure will I: a day, if you wants him.  But,
+Geordy, boy, you can't ride wi' your arm that way?"
+
+"O yes; only help me into the saddle."
+
+The old hunter did as desired; and after exchanging another word or two,
+I rode off in the up-river direction.
+
+Up the river was a ferry; and at its landing it was most likely the
+young Indian had left his canoe.  In that direction, therefore, he
+should go to get back to his home, and in that direction Ringgold should
+_not_ go to return to his, for the path to the Ringgold plantation led
+in a course altogether opposite.  Hence the suspicion that occurred to
+me on hearing that the latter had gone up the river.  At such a time it
+did not look well, and in such company, still worse; for I recognised in
+the names that Hickman had mentioned, two of the most worthless boys in
+the settlement.  I knew them to be associates, or rather creatures, of
+Ringgold.
+
+My suspicion was that they had gone after the Indian, and of course with
+an ill intent.  It was hardly a conjecture; I was almost sure of it; and
+as I advanced along the river road, I became confirmed in the belief.  I
+saw the tracks of their horses along the path that led to the ferry, and
+now and again I could make out the print of the Indian moccasin where it
+left its wet mark in the dust.  I knew that his dress had not yet dried
+upon him, and the moccasins would still be saturated with water.
+
+I put the old horse to his speed.  As I approached the landing, I could
+see no one, for there were trees all around it; but the conflict of
+angry voices proved that I had conjectured aright.
+
+I did not stop to listen; but urging my horse afresh, I rode on.  At a
+bend of the road, I saw three horses tied to the trees.  I knew they
+were those of Ringgold and his companions, but I could not tell why they
+had left them.
+
+I stayed not to speculate, but galloped forward upon the ground.  Just
+as I had anticipated, the three were there--the half-blood was in their
+hands!
+
+They had crept upon him unawares--that was why their horses had been
+left behind--and caught him just as he was about stepping into his
+canoe.  He was unarmed--for the rifle I had given him was still wet, and
+the mulatto had made away with his knife--he could offer no resistance,
+and was therefore secured at once.
+
+They had been quick about it, for they had already stripped off his
+hunting-shirt, and tied him to a tree.  They were just about to vent
+their spite on him--by flogging him on the bare back with cowhides which
+they carried in their hands.  No doubt they would have laid them on
+heavily, had I not arrived in time.
+
+"Shame, Arens Ringgold! shame!"  I cried as I rode up.  "This is
+cowardly, and I shall report it to the whole settlement."
+
+Ringgold stammered out some excuse, but was evidently staggered at my
+sudden appearance.
+
+"The darned Injun desarves it," growled Williams.
+
+"For what, Master Williams?"  I inquired.
+
+"For waggin his jaw so imperent to white men."
+
+"He's got no business over here," chimed in Spence; "he has got no right
+to come this side of the river."
+
+"And you have no right to flog him, whether on this side or the other--
+no more than you have to flog me."
+
+"Ho, ho!  That might be done, too," said Spence, in a sneering tone,
+that set my blood in a boil.
+
+"Not so easily," I cried, leaping from the old horse, and running
+forward upon the ground.
+
+My right arm was still sound.  Apprehensive of an awkward affair, I had
+borrowed old Hickman's pistol, and I held it in my hand.
+
+"Now, gentlemen," said I, taking my stand beside the captive, "go on
+with the flogging; but take my word for it, I shall send a bullet
+through the first who strikes!"
+
+Though they were but boys, all three were armed with knife and pistol,
+as was the custom of the time.  Of the three, Spence seemed most
+inclined to carry out his threat; but he and Williams saw that Ringgold,
+their leader, had already backed out, for the latter had something to
+lose, which his companions had not.  Besides, he had other thoughts, as
+well as fears for his personal safety.
+
+The result was, that all three, after remonstrating with me for my
+uncalled-for interference _in a quarrel that did not concern me_, made
+an angry and somewhat awkward exit from the scene.
+
+The young Indian was soon released from his unpleasant situation.  He
+uttered few words, but his looks amply expressed his gratitude.  As he
+pressed my hand at parting, he said:
+
+"Come to the other side to hunt whenever you please--no Indian will harm
+you--in the land of the red men _you_ will be welcome."
+
+
+
+CHAPTER FIFTEEN.
+
+MAUMEE.
+
+An acquaintance thus acquired could not be lightly dropped.  Should it
+end otherwise than in friendship?  This half-blood was a noble youth,
+the germ of a gentleman.  I resolved to accept his invitation, and visit
+him in his forest home.
+
+His mother's _cabin_, he said, was on the other side of the lake, not
+far off.  I should find it on the bank of a little stream that emptied
+into the main river, above where the latter expands itself.
+
+I felt a secret gratification as I listened to these directions.  I knew
+the stream of which he was speaking; lately, I had sailed up it in my
+skiff.  It was upon its banks I had seen that fair vision--the
+wood-nymph whose beauty haunted my imagination.  Was it Maumee?
+
+I longed to be satisfied.  I waited only for the healing of my wound--
+till my arm should be strong enough for the oar.  I chafed at the delay;
+but time passed, and I was well.
+
+I chose a beautiful morning for the promised visit, and was prepared to
+start forth.  I had no companion--only my dogs and gun.
+
+I had reached my skiff, and was about stepping in, when a voice accosted
+me; on turning, I beheld my sister.
+
+Poor little Virgine! she had lost somewhat of her habitual gaiety, and
+appeared much changed of late.  She was not yet over the terrible
+fright--its consequences were apparent in her more thoughtful demeanour.
+
+"Whither goest thou, Georgy?" she inquired as she came near.
+
+"Must I tell, Virgine?"
+
+"Either that or take me with you."
+
+"What! to the woods?"
+
+"And why not?  I long for a ramble in the woods.  Wicked brother! you
+never indulge me."
+
+"Why, sister, you never asked me before."
+
+"Even so, you might know that I desired it.  Who would not wish to go
+wandering in the woods?  Oh!  I wish I were a wild bird, or a butterfly,
+or some other creature with wings; I should wander all over those
+beautiful woods, without asking you to guide me, selfish brother."
+
+"Any other day, Virgine, but to-day--"
+
+"Why, but?  Why not this very day?  Surely it is fine--it is lovely!"
+
+"The truth, then, sister--I am not exactly bound for the woods to-day."
+
+"And whither bound? whither bound, Georgy?--that's what they say in
+ships."
+
+"I am going to visit young Powell at his mother's cabin.  I promised him
+I should."
+
+"Ha!" exclaimed my sister, suddenly changing colour, and remaining for a
+moment in a reflective attitude.
+
+The name had recalled that horrid scene.  I was sorry I had mentioned
+it.
+
+"Now, brother," continued she, after a pause; "there is nothing I more
+desire to see than an Indian cabin--you know I have never seen one.
+Good Georgy! good Georgy! pray take me along with you!"
+
+There was an earnestness in the appeal I could not resist, though I
+would rather have gone alone.  I had a secret that I would not have
+trusted even to my fond sister.  I had an indefinite feeling, besides,
+that I ought not to take her with me, so far from home, into a part of
+the country with which I was so little acquainted.
+
+She appealed a second time.
+
+"If mother will give her consent--"
+
+"Nonsense, Georgy--mamma will not be angry.  Why return to the house?
+You see I am prepared; I have my sun-bonnet.  We can be back before we
+are missed--you've told me it was not far."
+
+"Step in, sis!  Sit down in the stern.  There--yo ho! we are off!"
+
+There was not much strength in the current, and half an hour's rowing
+brought the skiff to the mouth of the creek.  We entered it, and
+continued upward.  It was a narrow stream, but sufficiently deep to
+float either skiff or canoe.  The sun was hot, but his beams could not
+reach us; they were intercepted by the tupelo trees that grew upon the
+banks--their leafy branches almost meeting across the water.
+
+Half a mile from the mouth of the creek, we approached a clearing.  We
+saw fields under cultivation.  We noticed crops of maize, and sweet
+potatoes, with capsicums, melons, and calabashes.  There was a
+dwelling-house of considerable size near the bank, surrounded by an
+enclosure, with smaller houses in the rear.  It was a log structure--
+somewhat antique in its appearance, with a portico, the pillars of which
+exhibited a rude carving.  There were slaves at work in the field--that
+is, there were black men, and some red men too--Indians!
+
+It could not be the plantation of a white man--there were none on that
+side the river.  Some wealthy Indian, we conjectured, who is the owner
+of land and slaves.  We were not surprised at this--we knew there were
+many such.
+
+But where was the cabin of our friend?  He had told me it stood upon the
+bank of the stream not more than half a mile from its mouth.  Had we
+passed without seeing it? or was it still higher up?
+
+"Shall we stop, and inquire, Virgine?"
+
+"Who is it standing in the porch?"
+
+"Ha! your eyes are better than mine, sis--it is the young Indian
+himself.  Surely he does not live _there_?  That is not a cabin.
+Perhaps he is on a visit?  But see! he is coming this way."
+
+As I spoke, the Indian stepped out from the house, and walked rapidly
+towards us.  In a few seconds, he stood upon the bank, and beckoned us
+to a landing.  As when seen before, he was gaily dressed, with plumed
+"toque" upon his head, and garments richly embroidered.  As he stood
+upon the bank above us, his fine form outlined against the sky, he
+presented the appearance of a miniature warrior.  Though but a boy, he
+looked splendid and picturesque.  I almost envied him his wild attire.
+
+My sister seemed to look on him with admiration, though I thought I
+could trace some terror in her glance.  From the manner in which her
+colour came and went, I fancied that his presence recalled that scene,
+and again I regretted that she had accompanied me.
+
+He appeared unembarrassed by our arrival.  I have known it otherwise
+among whites; and those, too, making pretensions to _haut ton_.  This
+young Indian was as cool and collected as though he had been expecting
+us, which he was not.  He could not have expected both.
+
+There was no show of coldness in our reception.  As soon as we
+approached near enough, he caught the stem of the skiff, drew her close
+up to the landing, and with the politeness of an accomplished gentleman,
+assisted us to debark.
+
+"You are welcome," said he--"welcome!" and then turning to Virginia with
+an inquiring look, he added:
+
+"I hope the health of the senorita is quite restored.  As for yours,
+sir, I need not inquire: that you have rowed your skiff so far against
+the current, is a proof you have got over your mishap."
+
+The word "senorita" betrayed a trace of the Spaniards--a remnant of
+those relations that had erewhile existed between the Seminole Indians
+and the Iberian race.  Even in the costume of our new acquaintance could
+be observed objects of Andalusian origin--the silver cross hanging from
+his neck, the sash of scarlet silk around his waist, and the bright
+triangular blade that was sheathed behind it.  The scene, too, had
+Spanish touches.  There were exotic plants, the China orange, the
+splendid papaya, the capsicums (chiles), and love-apples (tomatoes);
+almost characteristics of the home of the Spanish colonist.  The house
+itself exhibited traces of Castilian workmanship.  The carving was not
+Indian.
+
+"Is this your home?"  I inquired with a little embarrassment.
+
+He had bid us welcome, but I saw no cabin; I might be wrong.
+
+His answer set me at rest.  It was his home--his mother's house--his
+father was long since dead--there were but the three--his mother, his
+sister, himself.
+
+"And these?"  I inquired, pointing to the labourers.
+
+"Our slaves," he replied, with a smile.  "You perceive we Indians are
+getting into the customs of civilisation."
+
+"But these are not all negroes?  There are red men; are _they_ slaves?"
+
+"Slaves like the others.  I see you are astonished.  They are not of our
+tribe--they are _Yamassees_.  Our people conquered them long ago; and
+many of them still remain slaves."
+
+We had arrived at the house.  His mother met us by the door--a woman of
+pure Indian race--who had evidently once possessed beauty.  She was
+still agreeable to look upon--well-dressed, though in Indian costume--
+maternal--intelligent.
+
+We entered--furniture--trophies of the chase--horse accoutrements in the
+Spanish style--a guitar--ha! books!
+
+My sister and I were not a little surprised to find, under an Indian
+roof, these symbols of civilisation.
+
+"Ah!" cried the youth, as if suddenly recollecting himself, "I am glad
+you are come.  Your moccasins are finished.  Where are they, mother?
+Where is she?  Where is Maumee?"
+
+He had given words to my thoughts--their very echo.
+
+"Who is Maumee?" whispered Virgine.
+
+"An Indian girl--his sister, I believe."
+
+"Yonder--she comes!"
+
+A foot scarce a span in length; an ankle that, from the broidered flap
+of the moccasin, exhibits two lines widely diverging upward; a waist of
+that pleasing flexure that sweeps abruptly inward and out again; a bosom
+whose prominence could be detected under the coarsest draping; a face of
+rich golden brown; skin diaphanous; cheeks coral red; lips of like hue;
+dark eyes and brows; long crescent lashes; hair of deepest black, in
+wantonness of profusion!
+
+Fancy such a form--fancy it robed in all the picturesque finery that
+Indian ingenuity can devise--fancy it approaching you with a step that
+rivals the steed of Arabia, and you may fancy--no, you may not fancy
+Maumee.
+
+My poor heart--it was she, my wood-nymph!
+
+------------------------------------------------------------------------
+
+I could have tarried long under the roof of that hospitable home; but my
+sister seemed ill at ease--as if there came always recurring to her the
+memory of that unhappy adventure.
+
+We stayed but an hour; it seemed not half so long--but short as was the
+time, it transformed me into a man.  As I rowed back home, I felt that
+my boy's heart had been left behind me.
+
+
+
+CHAPTER SIXTEEN.
+
+THE ISLAND.
+
+I longed to revisit the Indian home; and was not slow to gratify my
+wish.  There was no restraint upon my actions.  Neither father nor
+mother interfered with my daily wanderings: I came and went at will; and
+was rarely questioned as to the direction I had taken.  Hunting was
+supposed to be the purpose of my absence.  My dogs and gun, which I
+always took with me, and the game I usually brought back, answered all
+curiosity.
+
+My hunting excursions were always in one direction--I need hardly have
+said so--always across the river.  Again and again did the keel of my
+skiff cleave the waters of the creek--again and again, till I knew every
+tree upon its banks.
+
+My acquaintance with young Powell soon ripened into a firm friendship.
+Almost daily were we together--either upon the lake or in the woods,
+companions in the chase; and many a deer and wild turkey did we
+slaughter in concert.  The Indian boy was already a skilled hunter; and
+I learned many a secret of woodcraft in his company.
+
+I well remember that hunting less delighted me than before.  I preferred
+that hour when the chase was over, and I halted at the Indian house on
+my way home--when I drank the honey-sweetened _conti_ out of the carved
+calabash--far sweeter from the hands out of which I received the cup--
+far sweeter from the smiles of her who gave it--Maumee.
+
+For weeks--short weeks they seemed--I revelled in this young dream of
+love.  Ah! it is true there is no joy in afterlife that equals this.
+Glory and power are but gratifications--love alone is bliss--purest and
+sweetest in its virgin bloom.
+
+Often was Virginia my companion in these wild wood excursions.  She had
+grown fond of the forest--she said so--and willingly went along.  There
+were times when I should have preferred going alone; but I could not
+gainsay her.  She had become attached to Maumee.  I did not wonder.
+
+Maumee, too, liked my sister--not from any resemblance of character.
+Physically, they were unlike as two young girls could well be.  Virginia
+was all blonde and gold; Maumee, damask and dark.  Intellectually they
+approached no nearer.  The former was timid as the dove; the latter
+possessed a spirit bold as the falcon.  Perhaps the contrast drew closer
+the ties of friendship that had sprung up between them.  It is not an
+anomaly.
+
+Far more like an anomaly was my feeling in relation to the two.  I loved
+my sister for the very softness of her nature.  I loved Maumee for the
+opposite; but, true, these loves were very distinct in kind--unlike as
+the objects that called them forth.
+
+While young Powell and I hunted, our sisters stayed at home.  They
+strolled about the fields, the groves, the garden.  They played and sang
+and _read_, for Maumee--despite her costume--was no savage.  She had
+books, a guitar, or rather a bandolin--a Spanish relic--and had been
+instructed in both.  So far as mental cultivation went, she was fit
+society even for the daughter of a proud Randolph.  Young Powell, too;
+was as well, or better educated than myself.  Their father had not
+neglected his duty.
+
+Neither Virginia nor I ever dreamed of an inequality.  The association
+was by us desired and sought.  We were both too young to know aught of
+_caste_.  In our friendships we followed only the prompting of innocent
+nature; and it never occurred to us that we were going astray.
+
+The girls frequently accompanied us into the forest; and to this we, the
+hunters, made no objection.  We did not always go in quest of the
+wide-ranging stag.  Squirrels and other small game were oftener the
+objects of our pursuit; and in following these we needed not to stray
+far from our delicate companions.
+
+As for Maumee, she was a huntress--a bold equestrian, and could have
+ridden in the "drive."  As yet, my sister had scarcely been on
+horseback.
+
+I grew to like the squirrel-shooting the best; my dogs were often left
+behind; and it became a rare thing for me to bring home venison.
+
+Our excursions were not confined to the woods.  The water-fowl upon the
+lake, the ibises, egrets, and white cranes, were often the victims of
+our hunting ardour.
+
+In the lake, there was a beautiful island--not that which had been the
+scene of the tragedy, but one higher up--near the widening of the river.
+Its surface was of large extent, and rose to a summit in the centre.
+For the most part, it was clad with timber, nearly all evergreen--as the
+live-oak, magnolia, illicium, and the wild orage--indigenous to Florida.
+There was zanthoxylon trees, with their conspicuous yellow blossoms;
+the perfumed flowering dogwood, and sweet-scented plants and shrubs--the
+princely palm towering high over all, and forming, with its wide-spread
+umbels, a double canopy of verdure.
+
+The timber, though standing thickly, did not form a thicket.  Here and
+there, the path was tangled with epiphytes or parasites--with enormous
+gnarled vines of the fox-grape--with bignonias--with china and
+sarsaparilla briers--with bromilias and sweet-scented orchids; but the
+larger trees stood well apart; and at intervals there were openings--
+pretty glades, carpeted with grass, and enamelled with flowers.
+
+The fair island lay about half-way between the two homes; and often
+young Powell and I met upon it, and made it the scene of our sport.
+There were squirrels among the trees, and turkeys--sometimes deer were
+found in the glades--and from its covered shores we could do execution
+among the water-fowl that sported upon the lake.
+
+Several times had we met on this neutral ground, and always accompanied
+by our sisters.  Both delighted in the lovely spot.  They used to ascend
+the slope, and seat themselves under the shade of some tall palms that
+grew on the summit; while we, the hunters, remained in the
+game-frequented ground below, causing the woods to ring with the reports
+of our rifles.  Then it was our custom, when satiated with the sport,
+also to ascend the hill, and deliver up our spoils, particularly when we
+had been fortunate enough to procure some rare and richly plumed bird--
+an object of curiosity or admiration.
+
+For my part, whether successful or not, I always left off sooner than my
+companion.  I was not so keen a hunter as he; I far more delighted to
+recline along the grass where the two maidens were seated: far sweeter
+than the sound of the rifle was it to listen to the tones of Maumee's
+voice; far fairer than the sight of game was it to gaze into the eyes of
+Maumee.
+
+And beyond this, beyond listening and looking, my love had never gone.
+No love-words had ever passed between us; I even knew not whether I was
+beloved.
+
+My hours were not all blissful; the sky was not always of rose colour.
+The doubts that my youthful passion was returned were its clouds; and
+these often arose to trouble me.
+
+About this time, I became unhappy from another cause.  I perceived, or
+fancied, that Virginia took a deep interest in the brother of Maumee,
+and that this was reciprocated.  The thought gave me surprise and pain.
+Yet why I should have experienced either, I could not tell.  I have said
+that my sister and I were too young to know ought of the prejudices of
+rank or caste; but this was not strictly true.  I must have had some
+instinct, that in this free association with our dark-skinned neighbours
+we were doing wrong, else how could it have made me unhappy?  I fancied
+that Virginia shared this feeling with me.  We were both ill at ease,
+and yet we were not confidants of each other.  I dreaded to make known
+my thoughts even to my sister, and she no doubt felt a like reluctance
+to the disclosing of her secret.
+
+What would be the result of these young loves if left to themselves?
+Would they in due time die out?  Would there arrive an hour of satiety
+and change? or, without interruption would they become perpetual?  Who
+knows what might be their fate, if permitted to advance to perfect
+development.  But it is never so--they are always interrupted.
+
+So were ours--the crisis came--and the sweet companionship in which we
+had been indulging was brought to a sudden close.  We had never
+disclosed it to our father or mother, though we had used no craft to
+conceal it.  We had not been questioned, else should we certainly have
+avowed it; for we had been taught strictly to regard truth.  But no
+questions had been asked--no surprise had been expressed at our frequent
+absences.  Mine, as a hunter, were but natural; the only wonderment was
+that Virginia had grown so found of the forest, and so often bore me
+company; but this slight surprise on the part of my mother soon wore
+off, and we went freely forth, and as freely returned, without challenge
+of our motives.
+
+I have said that we used no art to conceal who were our associates in
+these wild wanderings.  That again is not strictly true.  Our very
+silence was craft.  We must both have had some secret perception that we
+were acting wrongly--that our conduct would not meet the approval of our
+parents--else why should we have cared for concealment.
+
+It was destined that this repose should not be of long continuance.  It
+ended abruptly--somewhat harshly.
+
+One day we were upon the island, all four as usual.  The hunt was over,
+and Powell and I had rejoined our sisters upon the hill.  We had
+stretched ourselves under the shade, and were indulging in trivial
+conversation, but I far more in the mute language of love.  My eyes
+rested upon the object of my thoughts, too happy that my glances were
+returned.  I saw little besides: I did not notice that there was a
+similar exchange of ardent looks between the young Indian and my sister.
+At that moment I cared not; I was indifferent to everything but the
+smiles of Maumee.
+
+There were those who did observe the exchange of glances, who saw all
+that was passing.  Anxious eyes were bent upon the tableau formed by the
+four of us, and our words, looks, and gestures were noted.
+
+The dogs rose with a growl, and ran outward among the trees.  The
+rustling branches, and garments shining through the foliage, warned us
+that there were people there.  The dogs had ceased to give tongue, and
+were wagging their tails.  They were friends, then, who were near.
+
+The leaves sheltered them no longer from our view: behold my father--my
+mother!
+
+Virginia and I were startled by their appearance.  We felt some
+apprehension of evil--arising no doubt, from our own convictions that we
+had not been acting aright.  We observed that the brows of both were
+clouded.  They appeared vexed and angry.
+
+My mother approached first.  There was scorn upon her lips.  She was
+proud of her ancestry, even more than the descendant of the Randolphs.
+
+"What!" exclaimed she--"what, my children, these your companions?
+Indians?"
+
+Young Powell rose to his feet, but said nothing in reply.  His looks
+betrayed what he felt; and that he perfectly understood the slight.
+
+With a haughty glance towards my father and mother, he beckoned to his
+sister to follow him, and walked proudly away.
+
+Virginia and I were alarmed and speechless.  We dared not say adieu.
+
+We were hurried from the spot; and homeward Virginia went with my father
+and mother.  There were others in the boat that had brought them to the
+island.  There were blacks who rowed; but I saw white men there too.
+The Ringgolds--both father and son--were of the party.
+
+I returned alone in the skiff.  While crossing the lake, I looked up.
+The canoe was just entering the creek.  I could see that the faces of
+the half-blood and his sister were turned towards us.  I was watched,
+and dared not wave an adieu, although there was a sad feeling upon my
+heart--a presentiment that we were parting for long--perhaps for ever!
+
+Alas! the presentiment proved a just one.  In three days from that time
+I was on my way to the far north, where I was entered as a cadet in the
+military academy of West Point.  My sister, too, was sent to one of
+those seminaries, in which the cities of the Puritan people abound.  It
+was long, long before either of us again set eyes upon the flowery land.
+
+
+
+CHAPTER SEVENTEEN.
+
+WEST POINT.
+
+The military college of West Point is the finest school in the world.
+Princes and priests have there no power; true knowledge is taught, and
+must be learned, under penalty of banishment from the place.  The
+graduate comes forth a scholar, not, as from Oxford and Cambridge, the
+pert parrot of a dead language, smooth prosodian, mechanic rhymster of
+Idyllic verse; but a linguist of living tongues--one who has studied
+science, and not neglected art--a botanist, draughtsman, geologist,
+astronomer, engineer, soldier--all; in short, a man fitted for the
+higher duties of social life--capable of supervision and command--
+equally so of obedience and execution.
+
+Had I been ever so much disinclined to books, in this institution I
+could not have indulged in idleness.  There is no "dunce" in West Point.
+There is no favour to family and fortune: the son of the President
+would be ejected, if not able to dress up with the rank; and under the
+dread of disgrace, I became, perforce, a diligent student--in time a
+creditable scholar.
+
+The details of a cadet's experience possess but little interest--a
+routine of monotonous duties--only at West Point a little harder than
+elsewhere--at times but slightly differing from the slave-life of a
+common soldier.  I bore them bravely--not that I was inspired by any
+great military ambition, but simply from a feeling of rivalry: I scorned
+to be the laggard of my class.
+
+There were times, however, when I felt weariness from so much restraint.
+It contrasted unfavourably with the free life I had been accustomed to;
+and often did I feel a longing for home--for the forest and the
+savanna--and far more, for the associates I had left behind.
+
+Long lingered in my heart the love of Maumee--long time unaffected by
+absence.  I thought the void caused by that sad parting would never be
+filled up.  No other object could replace in my mind, or banish from my
+memory the sweet souvenirs of my youthful love.  Morning, noon, and
+night, was that image of picturesque beauty outlined upon the retina of
+my mental eye--by day in thoughts, by night in dreams.
+
+Thus was it for a long while--I thought it would never be otherwise!  No
+other could ever interest me, as she had done.  No new joy could win me
+to wander--no Lethe could bring oblivion.  Had I been told so by an
+angel, I would not, I could not, have believed it.
+
+Ah! it was a misconception of human nature.  I was but sharing it in
+common with others, for most mortals have, at some period of life,
+laboured under a similar mistake.  Alas! it is too true--love _is_
+affected by time and absence.  It will not live upon memory alone.  The
+capricious soul, however delighting in the ideal, prefers the real and
+positive.  Though there are but few _lovely_ women in the world, there
+is no one lovelier than all the rest--no man handsomer than all his
+fellows.  Of two pictures equally beautiful, that is the more beautiful
+upon which the eye is gazing.  It is not without reason that lovers
+dread the parting hour.
+
+Was it books that spoke of lines and angles, of bastions and
+embrasures--was it drill, drill, drill by day, or the hard couch and
+harder guard _tour_ by night--was it any or all of these that began to
+infringe upon the exclusivism of that one idea, and at intervals drive
+it from my thoughts?  Or was it the pretty faces that now and then made
+their appearance at the "Point"--the excursionary belles from Saratoga
+and Ballston, who came to visit us--or the blonde daughters of the
+patroons, our nearer neighbours--who came more frequently, and who saw
+in each coarse-clad cadet the chrysalis of a hero--the embryo of a
+general?
+
+Which of all these was driving Maumee out of my mind?
+
+It imports little what cause--such was the effect.  The impression of my
+young love became less vivid on the page of memory.  Each day it grew
+fainter and fainter, until it was attenuated to a slim retrospect.
+
+Ah!  Maumee! in truth it was long before this came to pass.  Those
+bright smiling faces danced long before my eyes ere thine became
+eclipsed.  Long while withstood I the flattery of those siren tongues;
+but my nature was human, and my heart yielded too easily to the
+seduction of sweet blandishments.
+
+It would not be true to say that my first love was altogether gone: it
+was cold, but not dead.  Despite the fashionable flirtations of the
+hour, it had its seasons of remembrance and return.  Oft upon the still
+night's guard, home-scenes came flitting before me; and then the
+brightest object in the vision-picture was Maumee.  My love for her was
+cold, not dead.  Her presence would have re-kindled it--I am sure it
+would.  Even to have heard from her--of her--would have produced a
+certain effect.  To have heard that she had forgotten me, and given her
+heart to another, would have restored my boyish passion in its full
+vigour and entirety; I am sure it would.
+
+I could not have been indifferent then?  I must still have been in love
+with Maumee.
+
+One key pushes out the other; but the fair daughters of the north had
+not yet obliterated from my heart this dark-skinned damsel of the south.
+
+During all my cadetship, I never saw her--never even heard of her.  For
+five years I was an exile from home--and so was my sister.  At intervals
+during that time we were visited by our father and mother, who made an
+annual trip to the fashionable resorts of the north--Ballston Spa,
+Saratoga, and Newport.  There, during our holidays, we joined them; and
+though I longed to spend a vacation at home--I believe so did Virginia--
+the "mother was steel and the father was stone," and our desires were
+not gratified.
+
+I suspected the cause of this stern denial.  Our proud parents dreaded
+the danger of a _mesalliance_.  They had not forgotten the tableau on
+the island.
+
+The Ringgolds met us at the watering-places; and Arens was still
+assiduous in his attentions to Virginia.  He had become a fashionable
+exquisite, and spent his gold freely--not to be outdone by the
+_ci-devant_ tailors and stock-brokers, who constitute the "upper ten" of
+New York.  I liked him no better than ever, though my mother was still
+his backer.
+
+How he sped with Virginia, I could not tell.  My sister was now quite a
+woman--a fashionable dame, a belle--and had learnt much of the world,
+among other things, how to conceal her emotions--one of the
+distinguished accomplishments of the day.  She was at times merry to an
+extreme degree; though her mirth appeared to me a little artificial, and
+often ended abruptly.  Sometimes she was thoughtful--not unfrequently
+cold and disdainful.  I fancied that in gaining so many graces, she had
+lost much of what was in my eyes more valuable than all, her gentleness
+of heart.  Perhaps I was wronging her.
+
+There were many questions I would have asked her, but our childish
+confidence was at an end, and delicacy forbade me to probe her heart.
+Of the past we never spoke: I mean of _that_ past--those wild wanderings
+in the woods, the sailings over the lake, the scenes in the palm-shaded
+island.
+
+I often wondered whether she had cause to remember them, whether her
+souvenirs bore any resemblance to mine!
+
+On these points, I had never felt a definite conviction.  Though
+suspicious, at one time even apprehensive--I had been but a blind
+watcher, a too careless guardian.
+
+Surely my conjectures had been just, else why was she now silent upon
+themes and scenes that had so delighted us both? was her tongue tied by
+the after-knowledge that we had been doing wrong--only known to us by
+the disapproval of our parents?  Or, was it that in her present sphere
+of fashion, she disdained to remember the humble associates of earlier
+days?
+
+Often did I conjecture whether there had ever existed such a sentiment
+in her bosom; and, if so, whether it still lingered there?  These were
+points about which I might never be satisfied.  The time for such
+confidences had gone past.
+
+"It is not likely," reasoned I; "or, if there ever was a feeling of
+tender regard for the young Indian, it is now forgotten--obliterated
+from her heart, perhaps from her memory.  It is not likely it should
+survive in the midst of her present associations--in the midst of that
+_entourage_ of perfumed beaux who are hourly pouring into her ears the
+incense of flattery.  Far less probable _she_ would remember than I; and
+have not I forgotten?"
+
+Strange, that of the four hearts I knew only my own.  Whether young
+Powell had ever looked upon my sister with admiring eyes, or she on him,
+I was still ignorant, or rather unconvinced.  All I knew was by mere
+conjecture--suspicion--apprehension.  What may appear stranger, I never
+knew the sentiment of that other heart, the one which interested me more
+than all.  It is true, I had chosen to fancy it in my own favour.
+Trusting to glances, to gestures, to slight actions, never to words, I
+had hoped fondly; but often too had I been the victim of doubt.
+Perhaps, after all, Maumee had never loved me!
+
+Many a sore heart had I suffered from this reflection.  I could now bear
+it with more complacency; and yet, singular to say, it was this very
+reflection that awakened the memory of Maumee; and, whenever I dwelt
+upon it, produced the strongest revulsions of my own spasmodic love!
+
+Wounded vanity! powerful as passion itself! thy throes are as strong as
+love.  Under their influence, the chandeliers grow dim, and the fair
+forms flitting beneath lose half their brilliant beauty.  My thoughts go
+back to the flowery land--to the lake--to the island--to Maumee.
+
+Five years soon flitted past, and the period of my cadetship was
+fulfilled.  With some credit, I went through the ordeal of the final
+examination.  A high number rewarded my application, and gave me the
+choice of whatever arm of the service was most to my liking.  I had a
+penchant for the rifles, though I might have pitched higher into the
+artillery, the cavalry, or engineers.  I chose the first, however, and
+was gazetted brevet-lieutenant, and appointed to a rifle regiment, with
+leave of absence to revisit my native home.
+
+At this time, my sister had also "graduated" at the Ladies' Academy, and
+carried off her "diploma" with credit; and together we journeyed home.
+
+There was no father to greet us on our return: a weeping and widowed
+mother alone spoke the melancholy welcome.
+
+
+
+CHAPTER EIGHTEEN.
+
+THE SEMINOLES.
+
+On my return to Florida, I found that the cloud of war was gathering
+over my native land.  It would soon burst, and my first essay in
+military life would be made in the defence of hearth and home.  I was
+not unprepared for the news.  War is always _the_ theme of interest
+within the walls of a military college; and in no place are its
+probabilities and prospects so folly discussed or with so much
+earnestness.
+
+For a period of ten years had the United States been at peace with all
+the world.  The iron hand of "Old Hickory" had awed the savage foe of
+the frontiers.  For more than ten years had the latter desisted from his
+chronic system of retaliation, and remained silent and still.  But the
+pacific _status quo_ came to an end.  Once more the red man rose to
+assert his rights, and in a quarter most unexpected.  Not on the
+frontier of the "far west," but in the heart of the flowery land.  Yes,
+Florida was to be the theatre of operations--the stage on which this new
+drama was to be enacted.
+
+A word historical of Florida, for this writing is, in truth, a history.
+
+In 1821, the Spanish flag disappeared from the ramparts of San Augustine
+and Saint Marks, and Spain yielded up possession of this fair province--
+one of her last footholds upon the continent of America.  Literally, it
+was but a foothold the Spaniards held in Florida--a mere nominal
+possession.  Long before the cession, the Indians had driven them from
+the field into the fortress.  Their haciendas lay in ruins--their horses
+and cattle ran wild upon the savannas; and rank weeds usurped the sites
+of their once prosperous plantations.  During the century of dominion,
+they had made many a fair settlement, and the ruins of buildings--far
+more massive than aught yet attempted by their Saxon successors--attest
+the former glory and power of the Spanish nation.
+
+It was not destined that the Indians should long hold the country they
+had thus conquered.  Another race of white men--their equals in courage
+and strength--were moving down from the north; and it was easy prophecy
+to say that the red conquerors must in turn yield possession.
+
+Once already had they met in conflict with the pale-faced usurpers, led
+on by that stern soldier who now sat in the chair of the president.
+They were defeated, and forced further south, into the heart of the
+land--the centre of the peninsula.  There, however, they were secured by
+treaty.  A covenant solemnly made, and solemnly sworn to, guaranteed
+their right to the soil, and the Seminole was satisfied.
+
+Alas! the covenants between the strong and the weak are things of
+convenience, to be broken whenever the former wills it--in this case,
+shamefully broken.
+
+White adventurers settled along the Indian border; they wandered over
+Indian ground--not wandered, but went; they looked upon the land; they
+saw that it was good--it would grow rice and cotton, and cane and
+indigo, the olive and orange; they desired to possess it, more than
+desired--they resolved it should be theirs.
+
+There was a treaty, but what cared they for treaties?  Adventurers--
+ruined planters from Georgia and the Carolinas, "negro traders" from all
+parts of the south; what were covenants in their eyes, especially when
+made with redskins?  The treaty must be got rid of.
+
+The "Great Father," scarcely more scrupulous than they, approved their
+plan.
+
+"Yes," said he, "it is good--the Seminoles must be dispossessed; they
+must remove to another land; we shall find them a home in the west, on
+the great plains; there they will have wide hunting-grounds, their own
+for ever."
+
+"No," responded the Seminoles; "we do not wish to move; we are contented
+here: we love our native land; we do not wish to leave it; we shall
+stay."
+
+"Then you will not go willingly?  Be it so.  We are strong, you are
+weak; we shall force you."
+
+Though not the letter, this is the very spirit of the reply which
+Jackson made to the Seminoles!
+
+The world has an eye, and that eye requires to be satisfied.  Even
+tyrants dislike the open breach of treaties.  In this case, political
+party was more thought of than the world, and a show of justice became
+necessary.
+
+The Indians remained obstinate--they liked their own land, they were
+reluctant to leave it--no wonder.
+
+Some pretext must be found to dispossess them.  The old excuse, that
+they were mere idle hunters, and made no profitable use of the soil,
+would scarcely avail.  It was not true.  The Seminole was not
+exclusively a hunter; he was a husbandman as well, and tilled the land--
+rudely, it may be, but was this a reason for dispossessing him?
+
+Without this, others were easily found.  That cunning commissioner which
+their "Great Father" sent them could soon invent pretexts.  He was one
+who well knew the art of muddying the stream upwards, and well did he
+practise it.
+
+The country was soon filled with rumours of Indians--of horses and
+cattle stolen, of plantations plundered, of white travellers robbed and
+murdered--all the work of those savage Seminoles.
+
+A vile frontier press, ever ready to give tongue to the popular furor,
+did not fail in its duty of exaggeration.
+
+But who was to gazette the provocations, the retaliations, the wrongs
+and cruelties inflicted by the other side?  All these were carefully
+concealed.
+
+A sentiment was soon created throughout the country--a sentiment of
+bitter hostility towards the Seminole.
+
+"Kill the savage!  Hunt him down!  Drive him out!  Away with him to the
+west!"  Thus was the sentiment expressed.  These became the popular
+cries.
+
+When the people of the United States have a wish, it is likely soon to
+seek gratification, particularly when that wish coincides with the views
+of its government; in this case, it did so, the government itself having
+created it.
+
+It would be easy, all supposed, to accomplish the popular will, to
+dispossess the savage, hunt him, drive him out.  Still there was a
+treaty.  The world had an eye, and there was a thinking minority not to
+be despised who opposed this clamorous desire.  The treaty could not be
+broken under the light of day; how then, was this obstructive covenant
+to be got rid of?
+
+Call the head men together, cajole them out of it; the chiefs are human,
+they are poor, some of them drunkards--bribes will go far, fire-water
+still farther; make a new treaty with a double construction--the
+ignorant savages will not understand it; obtain their signatures--the
+thing is done!
+
+Crafty commissioner! yours is the very plan, and you the man to execute
+it.
+
+It _was_ done.  On the 9th of May, 1832, on the banks of the Oclawaha,
+the chiefs of the Seminole nation in full council assembled bartered
+away the land of their fathers!
+
+Such was the report given to the world.
+
+It was _not_ true.
+
+It was not a full council of chiefs; it was an assembly of traitors
+bribed and suborned, of weak men flattered and intimidated.  No wonder
+the nation refused to accede to this surreptitious covenant; no wonder
+they heeded not its terms; but had to be summoned to still another
+council, for a freer and fuller signification of their consent.
+
+It soon became evident that the great body of the Seminole nation
+repudiated the treaty.  Many of the chiefs denied having signed it.  The
+head chief, Onopa, denied it.  Some confessed the act, but declared they
+had been drawn into it by the influence and advice of others.  It was
+only the more powerful leaders of clans--as the brothers Omatla, Black
+Clay, and Big Warrior--who openly acknowledged the signing.
+
+These last became objects of jealousy throughout the tribes; they were
+regarded as traitors, and justly so.  Their lives were in danger; even
+their own retainers disapproved of what they had done.
+
+To understand the position, it is necessary to say a word of the
+political _status_ of the Seminoles.  Their government was purely
+republican--a thorough democracy.  Perhaps in no other community in the
+world did there exist so perfect a condition of freedom; I might add
+happiness, for the latter is but the natural offspring of the former.
+Their state has been compared to that of the clans of Highland Scotland.
+The parallel is true only in one respect.  Like the Gael, the Seminoles
+were without any common organisation.  They lived in "tribes" far apart,
+each politically independent of the other; and although in friendly
+relationship, there was no power of coercion between them.  There was a
+"head chief"--king he could not be called--for "Mico," his Indian title,
+has not that signification.  The proud spirit of the Seminole had never
+sold itself to so absurd a condition; they had not yet surrendered up
+the natural rights of man.  It is only after the state of nature has
+been perverted and abased, that the "kingly" element becomes strong
+among a people.
+
+The head "mico" of the Seminoles was only a head in name.  His authority
+was purely personal: he had no power over life or property.  Though
+occasionally the wealthiest, he was often one of the poorest of his
+people.  He was more open than any of the others to the calls of
+philanthropy, and ever ready to disburse with free hand, what was in
+reality, not his people's, but his own.  Hence he rarely grew rich.
+
+He was surrounded by no retinue, girt in by no barbarian pomp or
+splendour, flattered by no flunkey courtiers, like the rajahs of the
+east, or, on a still more costly scale, the crowned monarchs of the
+west.  On the contrary, his dress was scarcely conspicuous, often meaner
+than those around him.  Many a common warrior was far more _gaillard_
+than he.
+
+As with the head chief, so with the chieftains of tribes; they possessed
+no power over life or property; they could not decree punishment.  A
+jury alone can do this; and I make bold to affirm, that the punishments
+among these people were in juster proportion to the crimes than those
+decreed in the highest courts of civilisation.
+
+It was a system of the purest republican freedom, without one idea of
+the levelling principle; for merit produced distinction and authority.
+Property was _not_ in common, though labour was partially so; but this
+community of toil was a mutual arrangement, agreeable to all.  The ties
+of family were as sacred and strong as ever existed on earth.
+
+And these were _savages_ forsooth--red savages, to be dispossessed of
+their rights--to be driven from hearth and home--to be banished from
+their beautiful land to a desert wild--to be shot down and hunted like
+beasts of the field!  The last in its most literal sense, for dogs were
+to be employed in the pursuit!
+
+
+
+CHAPTER NINETEEN.
+
+AN INDIAN HERO.
+
+There were several reasons why the treaty of the Oclawaha could not be
+considered binding on the Seminole nation.  First, it was not signed by
+a majority of the chiefs.  Sixteen chiefs and sub-chiefs appended their
+names to it.  There were five times this number in the nation.
+
+Second, it was, after all, no treaty, but a mere conditional contract--
+the conditions being that a deputation of Seminoles should first proceed
+to the lands allotted in the west (upon White River), examine these
+lands, and bring back a report to their people.  The very nature of this
+condition proves that no contract for removal could have been completed,
+until the exploration had been first accomplished.
+
+The examination was made.  Seven chiefs, accompanied by an agent,
+journeyed to the far west, and made a survey of the lands.
+
+Now, mark the craft of the commissioner!  These seven chiefs are nearly
+all taken from those friendly to the removal.  We find among them both
+the Omatlas, and Black Clay.  True, there is Hoitle-mattee (jumper), a
+patriot, but this brave warrior is stricken with the Indian curse--he
+loves the fire-water; and his propensity is well-known to Phagan, the
+agent, who accompanies them.
+
+A _ruse_ is contemplated, and is put in practice.  The deputation is
+hospitably entertained at Fort Gibson, on the Arkansas.  Hoitle-mattee
+is made merry--the contract for removal is spread before the seven
+chiefs--they all sign it: and the juggle is complete.
+
+But even this was no fulfilment of the terms of the Oclawaha covenant.
+The deputation was to return with their report, and ask the will of the
+nation.  That was yet to be given; and, in order to obtain it, a new
+council of all the chiefs and warriors must be summoned.
+
+It was to be a mere formality.  It was well-known that the nation as a
+body disapproved of the facile conduct of the seven chiefs, and would
+not endorse it.  They were not going to "move."
+
+This was the more evident, since other conditions of the treaty were
+daily broken.  One of these was the restoration of runaway slaves, which
+the signers of the Oclawaha treaty had promised to send back to their
+owner.  No blacks were sent back; on the contrary, they now found refuge
+among the Indians more secure than ever.
+
+The commissioner knew all this.  He was calling the new council out of
+mere formality.  Perhaps he might persuade them to sign--if not, he
+intended to awe them into the measure, or force them at the point of the
+bayonet.  He had said as much.  Troops were concentrating at the
+agency--Fort King--and others were daily arriving at Tampa Bay.  The
+government had taken its measures; and coercion was resolved upon.
+
+I was not ignorant of what was going on, nor of all that had happened
+during my long years of absence.  My comrades, the cadets, were well
+versed in Indian affairs, and took a lively interest in them--especially
+those who expected soon to escape from the college walls.  "Black Hawk's
+war," just terminated in the west, had already given some a chance of
+service and distinction, and young ambition was now bending its eyes
+upon Florida.
+
+The idea, however, of obtaining glory in such a war was ridiculed by
+all.  "It would be too easy a war--the foe was not worth considering.  A
+mere handful of savages," asserted they; "scarcely enough of them to
+stand before a single company.  They would be either killed or captured
+in the first skirmish, one and all of them--there was not the slightest
+chance of their making any protracted resistance--_unfortunately_, there
+was not."
+
+Such was the belief of my college companions; and, indeed, the common
+belief of the whole country, at that time.  The army, too, shared it.
+One officer was heard to boast that he could march through the whole
+Indian territory with only a corporal's guard at his back; and another,
+with like bravado, wished that the government would give him a charter
+of the war, on his own account.  He would finish it for 10,000 dollars!
+
+These only expressed the sentiments of the day.  No one believed that
+the Indians would or could sustain a conflict with us for any length of
+time; indeed, there were few who could be brought to think that they
+would resist at all: they were only holding out for better terms, and
+would yield before coming to blows.
+
+For my part, I thought otherwise.  I knew the Seminoles better than most
+of those who talked--I knew their country better; and, notwithstanding
+the odds against them--the apparent hopelessness of the struggle--I had
+my belief that they would neither yield to disgraceful terms, nor yet be
+so easily conquered.  Still, it was but a conjecture; and I might be
+wrong.  I might be deserving the ridicule which my opposition to the
+belief of my comrades often brought upon me.
+
+The newspapers made us acquainted with every circumstance.  Letters,
+too, were constantly received at the "Point" from old graduates now
+serving in Florida.  Every detail reached us, and we had become
+acquainted with the names of many of the Indian chieftains, as well as
+the internal _politique_ of the tribe.  It appeared they were not
+united.  There was a party in favour of yielding to the demands of our
+government, headed by one _Omatla_.  This was the traitor party, and a
+minority.  The patriots were more numerous, including the head "mico"
+himself, and the powerful chiefs Holata, _Coa hajo_, and the negro
+Abram.
+
+Among the patriots there was one name that, upon the wings of rumour,
+began to take precedence of all others.  It appeared frequently in the
+daily prints, and in the letters of our friends.  It was that of a young
+warrior, or sub-chief, as he was styled, who by some means or other had
+gained a remarkable ascendency in the tribe.  He was one of the most
+violent opponents of the "removal;" in fact, the leading spirit that
+opposed it; and chiefs much older and more powerful were swayed by his
+counsel.
+
+We cadets much admired this young man.  He was described as possessing
+all the attributes of a hero--of noble aspect, bold, handsome,
+intelligent.  Both his physical and intellectual qualities were spoken
+of in terms of praise--almost approaching to hyperbole.  His form was
+that of an Apollo, his features Adonis or Endymion.  He was first in
+everything--the best shot in his nation, the most expert swimmer and
+rider--the swiftest runner, and most successful hunter--alike eminent in
+peace or war--in short, a Cyrus.
+
+There were Xenophons enough to record his fame.  The people of the
+United States had been long at peace with the red men.  The romantic
+savage was far away from their borders.  It was rare to see an Indian
+within the settlements, or hear aught of them.  There had been no late
+deputations from the tribes to gratify the eyes of gazing citizens; and
+a real curiosity had grown up in regard to these children of the forest.
+An Indian hero was wanted, and this young chief appeared to be the man.
+
+His name was Osceola.
+
+
+
+CHAPTER TWENTY.
+
+FRONTIER JUSTICE.
+
+I was not allowed long to enjoy the sweets of home.  A few days after my
+arrival, I received an order to repair to Fort King, the Seminole
+agency, and head-quarters of the army of Florida.  General Clinch there
+commanded.  I was summoned upon his staff.
+
+Not without chagrin, I prepared to obey the order.  It was hard to part
+so soon from those who dearly loved me, and from whom I had been so long
+separated.  Both mother and sister were overwhelmed with grief at my
+going.  Indeed they urged me to resign my commission, and remain at
+home.
+
+Not unwillingly did I listen to their counsel: I had no heart in the
+cause in which I was called forth; but at such a crisis I dared not
+follow their advice: I should have been branded as a traitor--a coward.
+My country had commissioned me to carry a sword.  I must wield it,
+whether the cause be just or unjust--whether to my liking or not.  This
+is called _patriotism_!
+
+There was yet another reason for my reluctance to part from home.  I
+need hardly declare it.  Since my return, my eyes had often wandered
+over the lake--often rested on that fair island.  Oh, I had not
+forgotten her!
+
+I can scarcely analyse my feelings.  They were mingled emotions.  Young
+love triumphant over older passions--ready to burst forth from the ashes
+that had long shrouded it--young love penitent and remorseful--doubt,
+jealousy, apprehension.  All these were active within me.
+
+Since my arrival, I had not dared to go forth.  I observed that my
+mother was still distrustful.  I had not dared even to question those
+who might have satisfied me.  I passed those few days in doubt, and at
+intervals under a painful presentiment that all was not well.
+
+Did Maumee still live?  Was she true?  True!  Had she reason?  Had she
+ever loved me?
+
+There were those near who could have answered the first question; but I
+feared to breathe her name, even to the most intimate.
+
+Bidding adieu to my mother and sister, I took the route.  These were not
+left alone: my maternal uncle--their guardian--resided upon the
+plantation.  The parting moments were less bitter, from the belief that
+I should soon return.  Even if the anticipated campaign should last for
+any considerable length of time, the scene of my duties would lie near,
+and I should find frequent opportunities of revisiting them.
+
+My uncle scouted the idea of a campaign, as so did every one.  "The
+Indians," he said, "would yield to the demands of the commissioner.
+Fools, if they didn't!"
+
+Fort King was not distant; it stood upon Indian ground--fourteen miles
+within the border, though further than that from our plantation.  A
+day's journey would bring me to it; and in company of my cheerful
+"squire," Black Jake, the road would not seem long.  We bestrode a pair
+of the best steeds the stables afforded, and were both armed
+_cap-a-pie_.
+
+We crossed the ferry at the upper landing, and rode within the "reserve"
+[Note 1].  The path--it was only a path--ran parallel to the creek,
+though not near its banks.  It passed through the woods, some distance
+to the rear of Madame Powell's plantation.
+
+When opposite to the clearing, my eyes fell upon the diverging track.  I
+knew it well: I had oft trodden it with swelling heart.
+
+I hesitated--halted.  Strange thoughts careered through my bosom;
+resolves half-made, and suddenly abandoned.  The rein grew slack, and
+then tightened.  The spur threatened the ribs of my horse, but failed to
+strike.
+
+"Shall I go?  Once more behold her.  Once more renew those sweet joys of
+tender love?  Once more--Ha, perhaps it is too late!  I might be no
+longer welcome--if my reception should be hostile?  Perhaps--"
+
+"Wha' you doin' dar, Massr George?  Daat's not tha' road to tha fort."
+
+"I know that, Jake; I was thinking of making a call at Madame Powell's
+plantation."
+
+"Mar'm Powell plantayshun!  Gollys!  Massr George--daat all you knows
+'bout it?"
+
+"About what?"  I inquired with anxious heart.
+
+"Dar's no Mar'm Powell da no more; nor hain't a been, since better'n two
+year--all gone clar 'way."
+
+"Gone away?  Where?"
+
+"Daat dis chile know nuffin 'bout.  S'pose da gone some other lokayshun
+in da rezav; made new clarin somewha else."
+
+"And who lives here now?"
+
+"Dar ain't neery one lib tha now: tha ole house am desarted."
+
+"But why did Madame Powell leave it?"
+
+"Ah--daat am a quaw story.  Gollys! you nebber hear um, Massr George?"
+
+"No--never."
+
+"Den I tell um.  But s'pose, massr, we ride on.  I am a gettin' a little
+lateish, an' 'twont do nohow to be cotch arter night in tha woods."
+
+I turned my horse's head and advanced along the main road, Jake riding
+by my side.  With aching heart, I listened to his narrative.
+
+"You see, Massr George, 'twar all o' Massr Ringgol--tha ole boss [Note
+2] daat am--an' I blieve tha young 'un had 'im hand in dat pie, all
+same, like tha ole 'un.  Waal, you see Mar'm Pow'll she loss some niggas
+dat war ha slaves.  Dey war stole from ha, an' wuss dan stole.  Dey war
+tuk, an' by white men, massr.  Tha be folks who say dat Mass' Ringgol--
+he know'd more 'n anybody else 'bout tha whole bizness.  But da rubb'ry
+war blamed on Ned Spence an' Bill William.  Waal, Mar'm, Powell she go
+to da law wi' dis yar Ned an' Bill; an' she 'ploy Massr Grubb tha big
+lawyer dat lib down tha ribba.  Now Massr Grubb, he great friend o'
+Massr Ringgol, an' folks _do_ say dat boaf de two put tha heads together
+to cheat dat ar Indyen 'ooman."
+
+"How?"
+
+"Dis chile don't say for troof, Massr George; he hear um only from da
+black folks: tha white folks say diffrent.  But I hear um from Mass'
+Ringgol's own nigga woodman--Pomp, you know Massr, George? an' he say
+that them ar two bosses _did_ put tha heads together to cheat dat poor
+Indyen 'ooman."
+
+"In what way, Jake?"  I asked impatiently.
+
+"Waal, you see, Massr George, da lawya he want da Indyen sign ha name to
+some paper--power ob 'turney, tha call am, I believe.  She sign; she no
+read tha writin.  Whuch! daat paper war no power ob 'turney: it war what
+tha lawyas call a `bill ob sale'."
+
+"Ha!"
+
+"Yes, Massr George, dat's what um war; an' by dat same bill ob sale all
+Mar'm Pow'll's niggas an' all ha plantation-clarin war made ober to
+Massr Grubb."
+
+"Atrocious scoundrel?"
+
+"Massr Grubb he swar he bought 'em all, an' paid for 'em in cash dollar.
+Mar'm Pow'll she swar de berry contr'y.  Da judge he decide for Massr
+Grubb, 'kase great Massr Ringgoh he witness; an' folks _do_ say Massr
+Ringgol now got dat paper in um own safe keeping an' war at tha bottom
+ob tha whole bizness."
+
+"Atrocious scoundrels! oh, villains!  But tell me, Jake, what became of
+Madame Powell?"
+
+"Shortly arter, tha all gone 'way--nob'dy know wha.  Da mar'm haself an'
+dat fine young fellur you know, an' da young Indyen gal dat ebbery body
+say war so good-lookin'--yes, Massr George, tha all gone 'way."
+
+At that moment an opening in the woods enabled me to catch a glimpse of
+the old house.  There it stood in all its grey grandeur, still embowered
+in the midst of beautiful groves of orange and olive.  But the broken
+fence--the tall weeds standing up against the walls--the shingles here
+and there missing from the roof--all told the tale of ruin.
+
+There was ruin in my heart, as I turned sorrowing away.
+
+------------------------------------------------------------------------
+
+Note 1.  That portion of Florida _reserved_ for the Seminoles by the
+treaty of Moultrie Creek made in 1823.  It was a large tract, and
+occupied the central part of the peninsula.
+
+Note 2.  Master or proprietor; universally in use throughout the
+Southern States.  From the Dutch "baas."
+
+
+
+CHAPTER TWENTY ONE.
+
+INDIAN SLAVES.
+
+It never occurred to me to question the genuineness of Jake's story.
+What the "black folks" said was true; I had no doubt of it.  The whole
+transaction was redolent of the Ringgolds and lawyer Grubbs--the latter
+a half planter, half legal practitioner of indifferent reputation.
+
+Jake further informed me that Spence and Williams had disappeared during
+the progress of the trial.  Both afterwards returned to the settlement,
+but no ulterior steps were taken against them, as there was no one to
+prosecute!
+
+As for the stolen negroes, they were never seen again in that part of
+the country.  The robbers had no doubt carried them to the slave-markets
+of Mobile or New Orleans, where a sufficient price would be obtained to
+remunerate Grubbs for his professional services, as also Williams and
+Spence for theirs.  The land would become Ringgold's, as soon as the
+Indians could be got out of the country--and this was the object of the
+"bill of sale."
+
+A transaction of like nature between white man and white man would have
+been regarded as a grave swindle, an atrocious crime.  The whites
+affected not to believe it; but there were some who knew it to be true,
+and viewed it only in the light of a clever _ruse_!
+
+That it was true, I could not doubt.  Jake gave me reasons that left no
+room for doubt; in fact it was only in keeping with the general conduct
+of the border adventures towards the unfortunate natives with whom they
+came in contact.
+
+Border adventures did I say?  Government agents, members of the Florida
+legislature, generals, planters, rich as Ringgold, all took part in
+similar speculations.  I could give names.  I am writing truth, and do
+not fear contradiction.
+
+It was easy enough, therefore, to credit the tale.  It was only one of
+twenty similar cases of which I had heard.  The acts of Colonel Gad
+Humphreys, the Indian agent--of Major Phagan, another Indian agent--of
+Dexter, the notorious negro-stealer--of Floyd--of Douglass--of Robinson
+and Millburn, are all historic--all telling of outrages committed upon
+the suffering Seminole.  A volume might be filled detailing such
+swindles as that of Grubbs and Ringgold.  In the mutual relations
+between white man and red man, it requires no skillful advocate to shew
+on which side must lie the wrongs unrepaired and unavenged.  Beyond all
+doubt, the Indian has ever been the victim.
+
+It is needless to add that there were retaliations: how could it be
+otherwise?
+
+One remarkable fact discloses itself in these episodes of Floridian
+life.  It is well-known that slaves thus stolen from the Indians _always
+returned to their owners whenever they could_!  To secure them from
+finding their way back, the Dexters and Douglasses were under the
+necessity of taking them to some distant market, to the far "coasts" of
+the Mississippi--to Natchez or New Orleans.
+
+There is but one explanation of this social phenomenon; and that is,
+that the slaves of the Seminole were _not_ slaves.  In truth they were
+treated with an indulgence to which the helot of other lands is a
+stranger.  They were the agriculturists of the country, and their Indian
+master was content if they raised him a little corn--just sufficient for
+his need--with such other vegetable products as his simple _cuisine_
+required.  They lived far apart from the dwellings of their owners.
+Their hours of labour were few, and scarcely compulsory.  Surplus
+product was their own; and in most cases they became rich--far richer
+than their own masters, who were less skilled in economy.  Emancipation
+was easily purchased, and the majority were actually free--though from
+such claims it was scarcely worth while to escape.  If slavery it could
+be called, it was the mildest form ever known upon earth--far differing
+from the abject bondage of Ham under either Shem or Japheth.
+
+It may be asked how the Seminoles became possessed of these black
+slaves?  Were they "runaways" from the States--from Georgia and the
+Carolinas, Alabama, and the plantations of Florida?  Doubtless a few
+were from this source; but most of the runaways were not claimed as
+property; and, arriving among the Indians, became free.  There was a
+time when by the stern conditions of the Camp Moultrie Covenant these
+"absconding" slaves were given up to their white owners; but it is no
+discredit to the Seminoles, that they were always _remiss_ in the
+observance of this disgraceful stipulation.  In fact, it was not always
+possible to surrender back the fugitive negro.  Black communities had
+concentrated themselves in different parts of the Reserve, who under
+their own leaders were socially free, and strong enough for
+self-defence.  It was with these that the runaways usually found refuge
+and welcome.  Such a community was that of "Harry" amidst the morasses
+of Pease Creek--of "Abram" at Micosauky--of "Charles" and the "mulatto
+king."
+
+No; the negro slaves of the Seminoles were _not_ runaways from the
+plantations; though the whites would wish to make it appear so.  Very
+few were of this class.  The greater number was the "genuine property"
+of their Indian owners, so far as a slave can be called _property_.  At
+all events, they were _legally_ obtained--some of them from the
+Spaniards, the original settlers, and some by fair purchase from the
+American planters themselves.
+
+How purchased? you will ask.  What could a tribe of savages give in
+exchange for such a costly commodity?  The answer is easy.  Horses and
+horned cattle.  Of both of these the Seminoles possessed vast herds.  On
+the evacuation by the Spaniards the savannas swarmed with cattle, of
+Andalusian race--half-wild.  The Indians caught and reclaimed them--
+became their owners.
+
+This, then, was the _quid pro quo_--quadrupeds in exchange for bipeds!
+
+The chief of the crimes charged against the Indians was the _stealing of
+cattle_--for the white men had their herds as well.  The Seminoles did
+not deny that there were bad men amongst them--lawless fellows difficult
+to restrain.  Where is the community without scamps?
+
+One thing was very certain.  The Indian chiefs, when fairly appealed to,
+have always evinced an earnest desire to make restoration: and exhibited
+an energy in the cause of justice, entirely unknown upon the opposite
+side of their border.
+
+It differed little how they acted, so far as regarded their character
+among their white neighbours.  These had made up their mind that the dog
+should be hanged; and it was necessary to give him a bad name.  Every
+robbery, committed upon the frontier was of course the act of an Indian.
+White burglars had but to give their faces a coat of Spanish brown, and
+justice could not see through the paint.
+
+
+
+CHAPTER TWENTY TWO.
+
+A CIRCUITOUS TRANSACTION.
+
+Such were my reflections as I journeyed on--suggested by the sad tale to
+which I had been listening.
+
+As if to confirm their correctness, an incident at that moment occurred
+exactly to the point.
+
+We had not ridden far along the path, when we came upon the tracks of
+cattle.  Some twenty head must have passed over the ground going in the
+same direction as ourselves--_towards_ the Indian "Reserve."
+
+The tracks were fresh--almost quite fresh.  I was tracker enough to know
+that they must have passed within the hour.  Though cloistered so long
+within college walls, I had not forgotten all the forest craft taught me
+by young Powell.
+
+The circumstance of thus coming upon a cattle-trail, fresh or old, would
+have made no impression upon me.  There was nothing remarkable about it.
+Some Indian herdsmen had been driving home their flock; and that the
+drivers _were_ Indians, I could perceive by the moccasin prints in the
+mud.  It is true, some frontiersmen wear the moccasin; but these were
+not the foot-prints of white men.  The turned-in toes, [Note 1] the high
+instep, other trifling signs which, from early training, I knew how to
+translate, proved that the tracks were Indian.
+
+So were they agreed my groom, and Jake was no "slouch" in the ways of
+the woods.  He had all his life been a keen 'coon-hunter--a trapper of
+the swamp-hare, the "possum," and the "gobbler."  Moreover, he had been
+my companion upon many a deer-hunt--many a chase after the grey fox, and
+the rufous "cat."  During my absence he had added greatly to his
+experiences.  He had succeeded his former rival in the post of woodman,
+which brought him daily in contact with the denizens of the forest, and
+constant observation of their habits had increased his skill.
+
+It is a mistake to suppose that the negro brain is incapable of that
+acute reasoning which constitutes a cunning hunter.  I have known black
+men who could read "sign" and lift a trail with as much intuitive
+quickness as either red or white.  Black Jake could have done it.
+
+I soon found that in this kind of knowledge he was now my master; and
+almost on the instant I had cause to be astonished at his acuteness.
+
+I have said that the sight of the cattle-tracks created no surprise in
+either of us.  At _first_ it did not; but we had not ridden twenty paces
+further, when I saw my companion suddenly rein up, at the same instant
+giving utterance to one of those ejaculations peculiar to the negro
+thorax, and closely resembling the "wugh" of a startled hog.
+
+I looked in his face.  I saw by its expression that he had some
+revelation to make.
+
+"What is it, Jake?"
+
+"Golly!  Massr George, d'you see daat?"
+
+"What?"
+
+"Daat down dar."
+
+"I see a ruck of cow-tracks--nothing more."
+
+"Doant you see dat big 'un?"
+
+"Yes--there is one larger than the rest."
+
+"By Gosh! it am de big ox Ballface--I know um track anywha--many's tha
+load o' cypress log dat ar ox hab toated for ole massr."
+
+"What?  I remember Baldface.  You think the cattle are ours?"
+
+"No, Massr George--I 'spect tha be da lawya Grubb's cattle.  Ole massr
+sell Ballface to Massr Grubb more'n a year 'go.  Daat am Bally's track
+for sartin."
+
+"But why should Mr Grubb's cattle be here in Indian ground, and so far
+from his plantation?--and with Indian drivers, too?"
+
+"Dat ere's just what dis chile can't clarly make out, Massr George."
+
+There was a singularity in the circumstance that induced reflection.
+The cattle could not have strayed so far of themselves.  The voluntary
+swimming of the river was against such a supposition.  But they were not
+_straying_.  They were evidently _concluded_--and by Indians.  Was it a
+_raid_?--were the beeves being stolen?
+
+It had the look of a bit of thievery, and yet it was not crafty enough.
+The animals had been driven along a frequented path, certain to be taken
+by those in quest of them; and the robbers--if they were such--had used
+no precaution to conceal their tracks.
+
+It looked like a theft, and it did not; and it was just this dubious
+aspect that stimulated the curiosity of my companion and myself--so much
+so that we made up our minds to follow the trail, and if possible
+ascertain the truth.
+
+For a mile or more the trail coincided with our own route; and then
+turning abruptly to the left, it struck off towards a track of "hommock"
+woods.
+
+We were determined not to give up our intention lightly.  The tracks
+were so fresh, that we knew the herd must have passed within the hour--
+within the quarter--they could not be distant.  We could gallop back to
+the main road, through some thin pine timber we saw stretching away to
+the right; and with these reflections, we turned head along the
+cattle-trail.
+
+Shortly after entering the dense forest, we heard voices of men in
+conversation, and at intervals the routing of oxen.
+
+We alit, tied our horses to a tree, and moved forward afoot.
+
+We walked stealthily and in silence, guiding ourselves by the sounds of
+the voices, that kept up an almost continual clatter.  Beyond a doubt,
+the cattle whose bellowing we heard were those whose tracks we had been
+tracing; but equally certain was it, that the voices we now listened to
+were _not_ the voices of those who had driven them!
+
+It is easy to distinguish between the intonation of an Indian and a
+white man.  The men whose conversation reached our ears were whites--
+their language was our own, with all its coarse embellishments.  My
+companion's discernment went beyond this--he recognised the individuals.
+
+"Golly!  Massr George, it ar tha two dam ruffins--Spence and Bill
+William!"
+
+Jake's conjecture proved correct.  We drew closer to the spot.  The
+evergreen trees concealed us perfectly.  We got up to the edge of an
+opening; and there saw the herd of beeves, the two Indians who had
+driven them, and the brace of worthies already named.
+
+We stood under cover watching and listening; and in a very short while,
+with the help of a few hints from my companion, I comprehended the whole
+affair.
+
+Each of the Indians--worthless outcasts of their tribe--was presented
+with a bottle of whisky and a few trifling trinkets.  This was in
+payment for their night's work--the plunder of lawyer Grubb's pastures.
+
+Their share of the business was now over; and they were just in the act
+of delivering up their charge as we arrived upon the ground.  Their
+employers, whose droving bout was here to begin, had just handed over
+their rewards.  The Indians might go home and get drunk: they were no
+longer needed.  The cattle would be taken to some distant part of the
+country--where a market would be readily found--or, what was of equal
+probability, they would find their way back to lawyer Grubb's own
+plantation, having been rescued by the gallant fellows Spence and
+Williams from a band of Indian rievers!  This would be a fine tale for
+the plantation fireside--a rare chance for a representation to the
+police and the powers.
+
+Oh, those savage Seminole robbers! they must be got rid of--they must be
+"moved" out.
+
+As the cattle chanced to belong to lawyer Grubbs, I did not choose to
+interfere.  I could tell my tale elsewhere; and, without making our
+presence known, my companion and I turned silently upon our heels,
+regained our horses, and went our way reflecting.
+
+I entertained no doubt about the justness of our surmise--no doubt that
+Williams and Spence had employed the drunken Indians--no more that
+lawyer Grubbs had employed Williams and Spence, in this circuitous
+transaction.
+
+The stream must be muddied upward--the poor Indian must be driven to
+desperation.
+
+------------------------------------------------------------------------
+
+Note 1.  It is art, not nature, that causes this peculiarity; it is done
+in the cradle.
+
+
+
+CHAPTER TWENTY THREE.
+
+REFLECTIONS BY THE WAY.
+
+At college, as elsewhere, I had been jeered for taking the Indian side
+of the question.  Not unfrequently was I "twitted" with the blood of
+poor old Powhatan, which, after two hundred years of "whitening," must
+have circulated very sparsely in my veins.  It was said I was not
+_patriotic_, since I did not join in the vulgar clamour, so congenial to
+nations when they talk of an enemy.
+
+Nations are like individuals.  To please them, you must be as wicked as
+they--feel the same sentiment, or speak it--which will serve as well--
+affect like loves and hates; in short, yield up independence of thought,
+and cry "crucify" with the majority.
+
+This is the world's man--the patriot of the times.
+
+He who draws his deductions from the fountain of truth, and would try to
+stem the senseless current of a people's prejudgments, will never be
+popular during life.  Posthumously he may, but not this side the grave.
+Such need not seek the "living Fame" for which yearned the conqueror of
+Peru: he will not find it.  If the true patriot desire the reward of
+glory, he must look for it only from posterity--long after his
+"mouldering bones" have rattled in the tomb.
+
+Happily there is another reward.  The _mens conscia recti_ is not an
+idle phrase.  There are those who esteem it--who have experienced both
+sustenance and comfort from its sweet whisperings.
+
+Though sadly pained at the conclusions to which I was compelled--not
+only by the incident I had witnessed, but by a host of others lately
+heard of--I congratulated myself on the course I had pursued.  Neither
+by word nor act, had I thrown one feather into the scale of injustice.
+I had no cause for self-accusation.  My conscience cleared me of all
+ill-will towards the unfortunate people, who were soon to stand before
+me in the attitude of enemies.
+
+My thoughts dwelt not long on the general question--scarcely a moment.
+That was driven out of my mind by reflections of a more painful nature--
+by the sympathies of friendship, of love.  I thought only of the ruined
+widow, of her children, of Maumee.  It were but truth to confess that I
+thought only of the last; but this thought comprehended all that
+belonged to her.  All of hers were endeared, though she was the centre
+of the endearment.
+
+And for all I now felt sympathy, sorrow--ay, a far more poignant
+bitterness than grief--the ruin of sweet hopes.  I scarcely hoped ever
+to see them again.
+
+Where were they now?  Whither had they gone?  Conjectures,
+apprehensions, fears, floated upon my fancy.  I could not avoid giving
+way to dark imaginings.  The men who had committed that crime were
+capable of any other, even the highest known to the calendar of justice.
+What had become of these friends of my youth?
+
+My companion could throw no light on their history after that day of
+wrong.  He "'sposed tha had move off to some oder clarin in da Indyen
+rezav, for folks nebba heern o' um nebber no more arterward."
+
+Even this was a conjecture.  A little relief to the heaviness of my
+thoughts was imparted by the changing scene.
+
+Hitherto we had been travelling through a pine forest.  About noon we
+passed from it into a large tract of hommock, that stretched right and
+left of our course.  The road or path we followed ran directly across
+it.
+
+The scene became suddenly changed as if by a magic transformation.  The
+soil under our feet was different, as also the foliage over our heads.
+The pines were no longer around us.  Our view was interrupted on all
+sides by a thick frondage of evergreen trees--some with broad shining
+coriaceous leaves, as the magnolia, that here grew to its full stature.
+Alongside it stood the live-oak, the red mulberry, the Bourbon laurel,
+iron-wood, _Halesia_ and _Callicarpa_, while towering above all rose the
+cabbage-palm, proudly waving its plumed crest in the breeze, as if
+saluting with supercilious nod its humbler companions beneath.
+
+For a long while we travelled under deep shadow--not formed by the trees
+alone, but by their parasites as well--the large grape-vine loaded with
+leaves--the coiling creepers of _smilax_ and _hedera_--the silvery tufts
+of _tillandsia_ shrouded the sky from our sight.  The path was winding
+and intricate.  Prostrate trunks often carried it in a circuitous
+course, and often was it obstructed by the matted trellis of the
+muscadine, whose gnarled limbs stretched from tree to tree like the
+great stay-cables of a ship.
+
+The scene was somewhat gloomy, yet grand and impressive.  It chimed with
+my feelings at the moment; and soothed me even more than the airy open
+of the pine-woods.
+
+Having crossed this belt of dark forest, near its opposite edge we came
+upon one of these singular ponds already described--a circular basin
+surrounded by hillocks and rocks of testaceous formation--an extinct
+water volcano.  In the barbarous jargon of the Saxon settler, these are
+termed sinks, though most inappropriately, for where they contain water,
+it is always of crystalline brightness and purity.
+
+The one at which we had arrived was nearly full of the clear liquid.
+Our horses wanted drink--so did we.  It was the hottest hour of the day.
+The woods beyond looked thinner and less shady.  It was just the time
+and place to make a halt; and, dismounting, we prepared to rest and
+refresh ourselves.
+
+Jake carried a capacious haversack, whose distended sides--with the
+necks of a couple of bottles protruding from the pouch--gave proof of
+the tender solicitude we had left behind us.
+
+The ride had given me an appetite, the heat had caused thirst; but the
+contents of the haversack soon satisfied the one, and a cup of claret,
+mingled with water from the cool calcareous fountain, gave luxurious
+relief to the other.
+
+A cigar was the natural finish to this _al fresco_ repast; and, having
+lighted one, I lay down upon my back, canopied by the spreading branches
+of an umbrageous magnolia.
+
+I watched the blue smoke as it curled upward among the shining leaves,
+causing the tiny insects to flutter away from their perch.
+
+My emotions grew still--thought became lull within my bosom--the
+powerful odour from the coral cones and large wax-like blossoms added
+its narcotic influences; and I fell asleep.
+
+
+
+CHAPTER TWENTY FOUR.
+
+A STRANGE APPARITION.
+
+I had been but a few minutes in this state of unconsciousness, when I
+was awakened by a plunge, as of some one leaping into the pond.  I was
+not startled sufficiently to look around, or even to open my eyes.
+
+"Jake is having a dip," thought I; "an excellent idea--I shall take one
+myself presently."
+
+It was a wrong conjecture.  The black had not leaped into the water, but
+was still upon the bank near me, where he also had been asleep.  Like
+myself, awakened by the noise, he had started to his feet; and I heard
+his voice, crying out:
+
+"Lor, Massr George! lookee dar!--ain't he a big un?  Whugh!"
+
+I raised my head and looked towards the pond.  It was not Jake who was
+causing the commotion in the water--it was a large alligator.
+
+It had approached close to the bank where we were lying; and, balanced
+upon its broad breast, with muscular arms and webbed feet spread to
+their full extent, it was resting upon the water, and eyeing us with
+evident curiosity.  With head erect above the surface, and tail stiffly
+"cocked" upward, it presented a comic, yet hideous aspect.
+
+"Bring me my rifle, Jake!"  I said, in a half whisper.  "Tread gently,
+and don't alarm it!"
+
+Jake stole off to fetch the gun; but the reptile appeared to comprehend
+our intentions--for, before I could lay hands upon the weapon, it
+revolved suddenly on the water, shot off with the velocity of an arrow,
+and dived into the dark recesses of the pool.
+
+Rifle in hand, I waited for some time for its re-appearance; but it did
+not again come to the surface.  Likely enough, it had been shot at
+before, or otherwise attacked; and now recognised in the upright form a
+dangerous enemy.  The proximity of the pond to a frequented road
+rendered probable the supposition.
+
+Neither my companion nor I would have thought more about it, but for the
+similarity of the scene to one well-known to us.  In truth, the
+resemblance was remarkable--the pond, the rocks, the trees that grew
+around, all bore a likeness to those with which our eyes were familiar.
+Even the reptile we had just seen--in form, in size, in fierce ugly
+aspect--appeared the exact counterpart to that one whose story was now a
+legend of the plantation.
+
+The wild scenes of that day were recalled; the details starting fresh
+into our recollection, as if they had been things of yesterday--the
+luring of the amphibious monster--the perilous encounter in the tank--
+the chase--the capture--the trial and fiery sentence--the escape--the
+long lingering pursuit across the lake, and the abrupt awful ending--all
+were remembered at the moment with vivid distinctness.  I could almost
+fancy I heard that cry of agony--that half-drowned ejaculation, uttered
+by the victim as he sank below the surface of the water.  They were not
+pleasant memories either to my companion or myself, and we soon ceased
+to discourse of them.
+
+As if to bring more agreeable reflections, the cheerful "gobble" of a
+wild turkey at that moment sounded in our ears; and Jake asked my
+permission to go in search of the game.  No objection being made, he
+took up the rifle, and left me.
+
+I re-lit my "havanna"--stretched myself as before along the soft sward,
+watched the circling eddies of the purple smoke, inhaled the narcotic
+fragrance of the flowers, and once more fell asleep.
+
+This time I dreamed, and my dreams appeared to be only the continuation
+of the thoughts that had been so recently in my mind.  They were visions
+of that eventful day; and once more its events passed in review before
+me, just as they had occurred.
+
+In one thing, however, my dream differed from the reality.  I dreamt
+that I saw the mulatto rising back to the surface of the water, and
+climbing out upon the shore of the island.  I dreamt that he had escaped
+unscathed, unhurt--that he had returned to revenge himself--that by some
+means he had got me in his power, and was about to kill me!
+
+At this crisis in my dream, I was again suddenly awakened--this time not
+by the plashing of water, but by the sharp "spang" of a rifle that had
+been fired near.
+
+"Jake has found the turkeys," thought I.  "I hope he has taken good aim.
+I should like to carry one to the fort.  It might be welcome at the
+mess-table, since I hear that the larder is not overstocked.  Jake is a
+good shot, and not likely to miss.  If--"
+
+My reflections were suddenly interrupted by a second report, which, from
+its sharp detonation, I knew to be also that of a rifle.
+
+"My God! what can it mean?  Jake has but one gun, and but one barrel--he
+cannot have reloaded since? he has not had time.  Was the first only a
+fancy of my dream?  Surely I heard a report? surely it was that which
+awoke me?  There were two shots--I could not be mistaken."
+
+In surprise, I sprang to my feet.  I was alarmed as well.  I was alarmed
+for the safety of my companion.  Certainly I had heard two reports.  Two
+rifles must have been fired, and by two men.  Jake may have been one,
+but who was the other?  We were upon dangerous ground.  Was it an enemy?
+
+I shouted out, calling the black by name.
+
+I was relieved on hearing his voice.  I heard it at some distance off in
+the woods; but I drew fresh alarm from it as I listened.  It was
+uttered, not in reply to my call, but in accents of terror.
+
+Mystified, as well as alarmed, I seized my pistols, and ran forward to
+meet him.  I could tell that he was coming towards me, and was near; but
+under the dark shadow of the trees his black body was not yet visible.
+He still continued to cry out, and I could now distinguish what he was
+saying.
+
+"Gorramighty! gorramighty!" he exclaimed in a tone of extreme terror.
+"Lor!  Massa George, are you hurt?"
+
+"Hurt! what the deuce should hurt me?"
+
+But for the two reports, I should have fancied that he had fired the
+rifle in my direction, and was under the impression he might have hit
+me.
+
+"You are not shot?  Gorramighty be thank you are not shot, Massr
+George."
+
+"Why, Jake, what does it all mean?"
+
+At this moment he emerged from the heavy timber, and in the open ground
+I had a clear view of him.
+
+His aspect did not relieve me from the apprehension that something
+strange had occurred.
+
+He was the very picture of terror, as exhibited in a negro.  His eyes
+were rolling in their sockets--the whites oftener visible than either
+pupil or iris.  His lips were white and bloodless; the black skin upon
+his face was blanched to an ashy paleness; and his teeth chattered as he
+spoke.  His attitudes and gestures confirmed my belief that he was in a
+state of extreme terror.
+
+As soon as he saw me, he ran hurriedly up, and grasped me by the arm--at
+the same time casting fearful glances in the direction whence he had
+come, as if some dread danger was behind him!
+
+I knew that under ordinary circumstances Jake was no coward--Quite the
+contrary.  There must have been peril then--what was it?
+
+I looked back; but in the dark depths of the forest shade, I could
+distinguish no other object than the brown trunks of the trees.
+
+I again appealed to him for an explanation.
+
+"O Lor! it wa-wa-war _him_; I'se sure it war _him_."
+
+"Him? who?"
+
+"O Massr George; you--you--you shure you not hurt.  He fire at you.  I
+see him t-t-t-take aim; I fire at _him_--I fire after; I mi-mi-miss; he
+run away--way--way."
+
+"Who fired? who ran away?"
+
+"O Gor! it wa-wa-war him; him or him go-go-ghost."
+
+"For heaven's sake, explain! what him? what ghost?  Was it the devil you
+have seen?"
+
+"Troof, Massr George; dat am the troof.  It wa-wa-war de debbel I see;
+it war _Yell' Jake_!"
+
+"Yellow Jake?"
+
+
+
+CHAPTER TWENTY FIVE.
+
+WHO FIRED THE SHOT?
+
+"Yellow Jake?"  I repeated in the usual style of involuntary
+interrogative--of course without the slightest faith in my companion's
+statement.  "Saw Yellow Jake, you say?"
+
+"Yes, Massr George," replied the groom, getting a little over his
+fright: "sure as the sun, I see 'im--eytha 'im or 'im ghost."
+
+"Oh, nonsense! there are no ghosts: your eyes deceived you under the
+shadow of a tree.  It must have been an illusion."
+
+"By Gor!  Massr George," rejoined the black with emphatic earnestness,
+"I swar I see 'im--'twant no daloosyun, I see--'twar eytha Yell' Jake or
+'im ghost."
+
+"Impossible!"
+
+"Den, massr, ef't be impossible, it am de troof.  Sure as da gospel, I
+see Yell' Jake; he fire at you from ahind tha gum tree.  Den I fire at
+'im.  Sure, Massr George, you hear boaf de two shot?"
+
+"True; I heard two shots, or fancied I did."
+
+"Gollys! massr, da wa'nt no fancy 'bout 'em.  Whugh! no--da dam raskel
+he fire, sure.  Lookee da, Massr George!  What I say?  Lookee da!"
+
+We had been advancing towards the pond, and were now close to the
+magnolia under whose shade I had slept.  I observed Jake in a stooping
+attitude under the tree, and pointing to its trunk.  I looked in the
+direction indicated.  Low down, on the smooth bark, I saw the score of a
+bullet.  It had creased the tree, and passed onward.  The wound was
+green and fresh, the sap still flowing.  Beyond doubt, I had been fired
+at by some one, and missed only by an inch.  The leaden missile must
+have passed close to my head where it rested upon the valise--close to
+my ears, too, for I now remembered that almost simultaneously with the
+first report, I had heard the "wheep" of a bullet.
+
+"Now, you b'lieve um, Massr George?" interposed the black, with an air
+of confident interrogation.  "Now you b'lieve dat dis chile see no
+daloosyun?"
+
+"Certainly I believe that I have been shot at by some one--"
+
+"Yell' Jake, Massr George!  Yell' Jake, by Gor!" earnestly asseverated
+my companion.  "I seed da yaller raskel plain's I see dat log afore me."
+
+"Yellow skin or red skin, we can't shift our quarters too soon.  Give me
+the rifle: I shall keep watch while you are saddling.  Haste, and let us
+be gone!"
+
+I speedily reloaded the piece; and placing myself behind the trunk of a
+tree, turned my eyes in that direction whence the shot must have come.
+The black brought the horses to the rear of my position, and proceeded
+with all despatch to saddle them, and buckle on our _impedimenta_.
+
+I need not say that I watched with anxiety--with fear.  Such a deadly
+attempt proved that a deadly enemy was near, whoever he might be.  The
+supposition that it was Yellow Jake was too preposterous, I of course,
+ridiculed the idea.  I had been an eye-witness of his certain and awful
+doom; and it would have required stronger testimony than even the solemn
+declaration of my companion, to have given me faith either in a ghost or
+a resurrection.  I had been fired at--that fact could not be
+questioned--and by some one, whom my follower--under the uncertain light
+of the gloomy forest, and blinded by his fears--had taken for Yellow
+Jake.  Of course this was a fancy--a mistake as to the personal identity
+of our unknown enemy.  There could be no other explanation.
+
+Ha! why was I at that moment dreaming of him--of the mulatto?  And why
+such a dream?  If I were to believe the statement of the black, it was
+the very realisation of that unpleasant vision that had just passed
+before me in my sleep.
+
+A cold shuddering came over me--my blood grew chill within my veins--my
+flesh crawled, as I thought over this most singular coincidence.  There
+was something awful in it--something so damnably probable, that I began
+to think there was truth in the solemn allegation of the black; and the
+more I pondered upon it, the less power felt I to impeach his veracity.
+
+Why should an Indian, thus unprovoked, have singled _me_ out for his
+deadly aim?  True, there was hostility between red and white, but not
+war.  Surely it had not yet come to this?  The council of chiefs had not
+met--the meeting was fixed for the following day; and, until its result
+should be known, it was not likely that hostilities would be practised
+on either side.  Such would materially influence the determinations of
+the projected assembly.  The Indians were as much interested in keeping
+the peace as their white adversaries--ay, far more indeed--and they
+could not help knowing that an ill-timed demonstration of this kind
+would be to their disadvantage--just the very pretext which the
+"removal" party would have wished for.
+
+Could it, then, have been an Indian who aimed at my life?  And if not,
+who in the world besides had a motive for killing _me_?  I could think
+of no one whom I had offended--at least no one that I had provoked to
+such deadly retribution.
+
+The drunken drovers came into my mind.  Little would they care for
+treaties or the result of the council.  A horse, a saddle, a gun, a
+trinket, would weigh more in their eyes than the safety of their whole
+tribe.  Both were evidently true bandits--for there are robbers among
+red skins as well as white ones.
+
+But no; it could not have been they?  They had not seen us as we passed,
+or, even if they had, they could hardly have been upon the ground so
+soon?  We had ridden briskly, after leaving them; and they were afoot.
+
+Spence and Williams were mounted; and from what Jake had told me as we
+rode along in regard to the past history of these two "rowdies," I could
+believe them capable of anything--even of that.
+
+But it was scarcely probable either; they had not seen us: and besides
+they had their hands full.
+
+Ha!  I guessed it.  At last; at all events I had hit upon the most
+probable conjecture.  The villain was some runaway from the settlements,
+some absconding slave--perhaps ill-treated--who had sworn eternal
+hostility to the whites; and who was thus wreaking his vengeance on the
+first who had crossed his path.  A mulatto, no doubt; and maybe bearing
+some resemblance to Yellow Jake--for there is a general similarity among
+men of yellow complexion, as among blacks.
+
+This would explain the delusion under which my companion was labouring!
+at all events, it rendered his mistake more natural; and with this
+supposition, whether true or false, I was forced to content myself.
+
+Jake had now got everything in readiness; and, without staying to seek
+any further solution of the mystery we leaped to our saddles, and
+galloped away from the ground.
+
+We rode for some time with the "beard on the shoulder;" and, as our path
+now lay through thin woods, we could see for a long distance behind us.
+
+No enemy, white or black, red or yellow, made his appearance, either on
+our front, flank, or rear.  We encountered not a living creature till we
+rode up to the stockade of Fort King [Note]; which we entered just as
+the sun was sinking behind the dark line of the forest horizon.
+
+------------------------------------------------------------------------
+
+Note.  Called after a distinguished officer in the American army.  Such
+is the fashion in naming the frontier posts.
+
+
+
+CHAPTER TWENTY SIX.
+
+A FRONTIER FORT.
+
+The word "fort" calls up before the mind a massive structure, with
+angles and embrasures, bastions and battlements, curtains, casemates,
+and glacis--a place of great strength, for this is its essential
+signification.  Such structures have the Spaniards raised in Florida as
+elsewhere--some of which [Note 1] are still standing, while others, even
+in their ruins, bear witness to the grandeur and glory that enveloped
+them at that time, when the leopard flag waved proudly above their
+walls.
+
+There is a remarkable dissimilarity between the colonial architecture of
+Spain and that of other European nations.  In America the Spaniards
+built without regard to pains or expense, as if they believed that their
+tenure would be eternal.  Even in Florida, they could have no idea their
+lease would be so short--no forecast of so early an ejectment.
+
+After all, these great fortresses served them a purpose.  But for their
+protection, the dark Yamassee, and, after him, the conquering Seminole,
+would have driven them from the flowery peninsula long before the period
+of their actual rendition.
+
+The United States has its great stone fortresses; but far different from
+these are the "forts" of frontier phraseology, which figure in the story
+of border wars, and which, at this hour, gird the territory of the
+United States as with a gigantic chain.  In these are no grand
+battlements of cut rock, no costly casemates, no idle ornaments of
+engineering.  They are rude erections of hewn logs, of temporary intent,
+put up at little expense, to be abandoned with as little loss--ready to
+follow the ever-flitting frontier in its rapid recession.
+
+Such structures are admirably adapted to the purpose which they are
+required to serve.  They are types of the utilitarian spirit of a
+republican government, not permitted to squander national wealth on such
+costly toys as Thames Tunnels and Britannia Bridges, at the expense of
+an overtaxed people.  To fortify against an Indian enemy, proceed as
+follows:
+
+Obtain a few hundred trees; cut them into lengths of eighteen feet;
+split them up the middle; set them in a quadrangle, side by side, flat
+faces inward; batten them together; point them at the tops; loophole
+eight feet from the ground; place a staging under the loopholes; dig a
+ditch outside; build a pair of bastions at alternate corners, in which
+plant your cannon; hang a strong gate and you have a "frontier fort."
+
+It may be a triangle, a quadrangle, or any other polygon best suited to
+the ground.
+
+You need quarters for your troops and stores.  Build strong blockhouses
+within the enclosure--some at the angles, if you please; loophole them
+also--against the contingency of the stockade being carried; and, this
+done, your fort is finished.
+
+Pine trees serve well.  Their tall, branchless stems are readily cut and
+split to the proper lengths; but in Florida is found a timber still
+better for the purpose--in the trunk of the "cabbage-palm" [_Chamaerops
+palmetto_].  These, from the peculiarity of their endogenous texture,
+are less liable to be shattered by shot, and the bullet buries itself
+harmlessly in the wood.  Of such materials was Fort King.
+
+Fancy, then, such a stockade fort.  People it with a few hundred
+soldiers--some in jacket uniforms of faded sky-colour, with white
+facings, sadly dimmed with dirt (the infantry); some in darker blue,
+bestriped with red (artillery); a few adorned with the more showy yellow
+(the dragoons); and still another few in the sombre green of the rifles.
+Fancy these men lounging about or standing in groups, in slouched
+attitudes, and slouchingly attired--a few of tidier aspect, with
+pipe-clayed belts and bayonets by their sides, on sentry, or forming the
+daily guard--some half-score of slattern women, their laundress-wives,
+mingling with a like number of brown-skinned squaws--a sprinkling of
+squalling brats--here and there an officer hurrying along, distinguished
+by his dark-blue undress frock [Note 2]--half-a-dozen gentlemen in
+civilian garb--visitors, or non-military _attaches_ of the fort--a score
+less gentle-looking--sutlers, beef-contractors, drovers, butchers,
+guides, hunters, gamblers, and idlers--some negro servants and friendly
+Indians--perhaps the pompous commissioner himself--fancy all these
+before you, with the star-spangled flag waving above your head, and you
+have the _coup d'oeil_ that presented itself as I rode into the gateway
+of Fort King.
+
+Of late not much used to the saddle, the ride had fatigued me.  I heard
+the _reveille_, but not yet being ordered on duty, I disregarded the
+call, and kept my bed till a later hour.
+
+The notes of a bugle bursting through the open window, and the quick
+rolling of drums, once more awoke me.  I recognised the parade music,
+and sprang from my couch.  Jake at this moment entered to assist me in
+my toilet.
+
+"Golly, Massr George!" he exclaimed, pointing out by the window; "lookee
+dar! darts tha whole Indyen ob tha Seminole nayshun--ebbery red skin dar
+be in ole Floridy.  Whugh!"
+
+I looked forth.  The scene was picturesque and impressive.  Inside the
+stockade, soldiers were hurrying to and fro--the different companies
+forming for parade.  They were no longer, as on the evening before,
+slouched and loosely attired; but, with jackets close buttoned, caps
+jauntily cocked, belts pipe-clayed to a snowy whiteness, guns, bayonets,
+and buttons gleaming under the sunlight, they presented a fine military
+aspect.  Officers were moving among them, distinguished by their more
+splendid uniforms and shining epaulets; and a little apart stood the
+general himself, surrounded by his staff, conspicuous under large black
+chapeaus with nodding plumes of cock's feathers, white and scarlet.
+Alongside the general was the commissioner--himself a general--in full
+government uniform.
+
+This grand display was intended for effect on the minds of the Indians.
+
+There were several well-dressed civilians within the enclosure, planters
+from the neighbourhood, among whom I recognised the Ringgolds.
+
+So far the impressive.  The picturesque lay beyond the stockade.
+
+On the level plain that stretched to a distance of several hundred yards
+in front, were groups of tall Indian warriors, attired in their savage
+finery--turbaned, painted, and plumed.  No two were dressed exactly
+alike, and yet there was a similarity in the style of all.  Some wore
+hunting-shirts of buckskin, with leggings and moccasins of like
+material--all profusely fringed, beaded, and tasselled; others were clad
+in tunics of printed cotton stuff, checked or flowered, with leggings of
+cloth, blue, green, or scarlet, reaching from hip to ankle, and girt
+below the knee with bead-embroidered gaiters, whose tagged and tasselled
+ends hung down the outside of the leg.  The gorgeous wampum belt
+encircled their waists, behind which were stuck their long knives,
+tomahawks, and, in some instances, pistols, glittering with a rich inlay
+of silver--relics left them by the Spaniards.  Some, instead of the
+Indian wampum, encircled their waists with the Spanish scarf of scarlet
+silk, its fringed extremities hanging square with the skirt of the
+tunic, adding gracefulness to the garment.  A picturesque head-dress was
+not wanting to complete the striking costume; and in this the variety
+was still greater.  Some wore the beautiful coronet of plumes--the
+feathers stained to a variety of brilliant hues; some the "toque" of
+checked "bandanna;" while others wore shako-like caps of fur--of the
+black squirrel, the bay lynx, or raccoon--the face of the animal often
+fantastically set to the front.  The heads of many were covered with
+broad fillets of embroidered wampum, out of which stood the wing plumes
+of the king vulture, or the gossamer feathers of the sand-hill crane.  A
+few were still further distinguished by the nodding plumes of the great
+bird of Afric.
+
+All carried guns--the long rifle of the backwoods hunter, with horns and
+pouches slung from their shoulders.  Neither bow nor arrow was to be
+seen, except in the hands of the youth--many of whom were upon the
+ground, mingling with the warriors.
+
+Further off, I could see tents, where the Indians had pitched their
+camp.  They were not together, but scattered along the edge of the wood,
+here and there, in clusters, with banners floating in front--denoting
+the different clans or sub-tribes to which each belonged.
+
+Women in their long frocks could be seen moving among the tents, and
+little dark-skinned "papooses" were playing over the grassy sward in
+front of them.
+
+When I first saw them, the warriors were assembling in front of the
+stockade.  Some had already arrived, and stood in little crowds,
+conversing, while others strode over the ground, passing from group to
+group, as if bearing words of council from one to the other.
+
+I could not help observing the upright carriage of these magnificent
+men.  I could not help admiring their full, free port, and contrasting
+it with the gingerly step of the drilled soldier!  No eye could have
+looked upon them without acknowledging this superiority of the _savage_.
+
+As I glanced along the line of Saxon and Celtic soldiery--starched and
+stiff as they stood, shoulder to shoulder, and heel to heel--and then
+looked upon the plumed warriors without, as they proudly strode over the
+sward of their native soil, I could not help the reflection, that to
+conquer these men we must needs _outnumber_ them!
+
+I should have been laughed at had I given expression to the thought.  It
+was contrary to all experience--contrary to the burden of many a
+boasting legend of the borders.  The Indian had always succumbed; but
+was it to the superior strength and courage of his white antagonist?
+No: the inequality lay in numbers--oftener in arms.  This was the secret
+of our superiority.  What could avail the wet bowstring and ill-aimed
+shaft against the death-dealing bullet of the rifle?
+
+There was no inequality now.  Those hunter warriors carried the
+fire-weapon, and could handle it as skillfully as we.
+
+The Indians now formed into a half-circle in front of the fort.  The
+chiefs, having aligned themselves so as to form the concave side of the
+curve, sat down upon the grass.  Behind them the sub-chiefs and more
+noted warriors took their places, and still further back, in rank after
+rank, stood the common men of the tribes.  Even the women and boys drew
+near, clustering thickly behind, and regarding the movements of the men
+with quiet but eager interest.
+
+Contrary to their usual habits, they were grave and silent.  It is not
+their character to be so; for the Seminole is as free of speech and
+laughter as the clown of the circus ring; even the light-hearted negro
+scarcely equals him in jovialty.
+
+It was not so now, but the very reverse.  Chiefs, warriors and women--
+even the boys who had just forsaken their play--all wore an aspect of
+solemnity.
+
+No wonder.  That was no ordinary assemblage--no meeting upon a trivial
+matter--but a council at which was to be decided one of the dearest
+interests of their lives--a council whose decree might part them forever
+from their native land.  No wonder they did not exhibit their habitual
+gaiety.
+
+It is not correct to say that all looked grave.  In that semi-circle of
+chiefs were men of opposite views.  There were those who wished for the
+removal--who had private reasons to desire it--men bribed, suborned, or
+tampered with--traitors to their tribe and nation.
+
+These were neither weak nor few.  Some of the most powerful chiefs had
+been bought over, and had agreed to sell the rights of their people.
+Their treason was known or suspected, and this it was that was causing
+the anxiety of the others.  Had it been otherwise--had there been no
+division in the ranks--the patriot party might easily have obtained a
+triumphant decision; but they feared the defection of traitors.
+
+The band had struck up a march--the troops were in motion, and filing
+through the gate.
+
+Hurrying on my uniform, I hastened out; and took my place among the
+staff of the general.
+
+A few minutes after we were on the ground, face to face with the
+assembled chiefs.
+
+The troops formed in line, the general taking his stand in front of the
+colours, with the commissioner by his side.  Behind these were grouped
+the officers of the staff with clerks, interpreters, and some civilians
+of note--the Ringgolds, and others--who by courtesy were to take part in
+the proceedings.
+
+Hands were shaken between the officers and chiefs; the friendly calumet
+was passed round; and the council at length inaugurated.
+
+------------------------------------------------------------------------
+
+Note 1.  Forts Piscolata on the Saint Johns, Fort San Augustine, and
+others, at Pensacola, Saint Marks, and elsewhere.
+
+Note 2.  An American officer is rarely to be seen in full uniform--still
+more rarely when on campaigning service, as in Florida.
+
+
+
+CHAPTER TWENTY SEVEN.
+
+THE COUNCIL.
+
+First came the speech of the commissioner.
+
+It is too voluminous to be given in detail.  Its chief points were, an
+appeal to the Indians to conform peaceably to the terms of the Oclawaha
+treaty--to yield up their lands in Florida--to move to the west--to the
+country assigned them upon the White River of Arkansas--in short, to
+accept all the terms which the government had commissioned him to
+require.
+
+He took pains to specify the advantages which would accrue from the
+removal.  He painted the new home as a perfect paradise--prairies
+covered with game, elk, antelopes, and buffalo--rivers teeming with
+fish--crystal waters and unclouded skies.  Could he have found credence
+for his words, the Seminole might have fancied that the happy
+hunting-grounds of his fancied heaven existed in reality upon the earth.
+
+On the other hand, he pointed out to the Indians the consequences of
+their non-compliance.  White men would be settling thickly along their
+borders.  Bad white men would enter upon their lands; there would be
+strife and the spilling of blood; the red man would be tried in the
+court of the white man, where, according to law, his oath would be of no
+avail; and _therefore he must suffer injustice_!
+
+Such were in reality the sentiments of Mr Commissioner Wiley Thompson
+[historically true], uttered in the council of Fort King, in April,
+1835.  I shall give them in his own words; they are worthy of record, as
+a specimen of _fair dealing_ between white and red.  Thus spoke he:
+
+"Suppose--what is, however impossible--that you could be permitted to
+remain here for a few years longer, what would be your condition?  This
+land will soon be surveyed, sold to, and settled by the whites.  _There
+is now a surveyor in the country_.  The jurisdiction of the government
+will soon be extended over you.  Your laws will be set aside--your
+chiefs will cease to be chiefs.  Claims for debt and for your negroes
+would be set up against you by bad white men; or you would perhaps be
+charged with crimes affecting life.  You would be haled before the white
+man's court.  The claims and charges would be decided by the white man's
+law.  White men would be witnesses against you.  Indians would not be
+permitted to give evidence.  Your condition in a few years would be
+hopeless wretchedness.  You would be reduced to abject poverty, and when
+urged by hunger to ask--perhaps from the man who had thus ruined you--
+for a crust of bread, you might be called an Indian dog, and spurned
+from his presence.  For this reason it is that your `Great Father' (!)
+wishes to remove you to the west--to save you from all these evils."
+
+And this language in the face of a former treaty--that of Camp
+Moultrie--which guaranteed to the Seminoles their right to remain in
+Florida, and the third article of which runs thus:
+
+"The United States will take the Florida Indians under their care and
+patronage; _and will afford them protection against all persons
+whatsoever_."
+
+_O tempora, O mores_!
+
+The speech was a mixture of sophistry and implied menace--now uttered in
+the tones of a petitioner, anon assuming the bold air of the bully.  It
+was by no means clever--both characters being overdone.
+
+The commissioner felt no positive hostility towards the Seminoles.  He
+was indignant only with those chiefs who had already raised opposition
+to his designs, and one, in particular, he _hated_; but the principal
+_animus_ by which he was inspired, was a desire to do the work for which
+he had been delegated--an ambition to carry out the wish of his
+government and nation and thus gain for himself credit and glory.  At
+this shrine he was ready--as most officials are--to sacrifice his
+personal independence of thought, with every principle of morality and
+honour.  What matters the cause so long as it is the king's?  Make it
+"congress" instead of "king's" and you have the motto of our Indian
+agent.
+
+Shallow as was the speech, it was not without its effects.  The weak and
+wavering were influenced by it.  The flattering sketch of their new
+home, with the contrasted awful picture of what might be their future
+condition, affected the minds of many.  During that spring the Seminoles
+had planted but little corn.  The summons of war had been sounding in
+their ears; and they had neglected seed time: there would be no
+harvest--no maize, nor rice, nor yams.  Already were they suffering from
+their improvidence.  Even then were they collecting the roots of the
+China briar [Note 1], and the acorns of the live-oak.  How much worse
+would be their condition in the winter?
+
+It is not to be wondered at that they gave way to apprehension; and I
+noticed many whose countenances bore an expression of awe.  Even the
+patriot chiefs appeared to evince some apprehension for the result.
+
+They were not dismayed, however.  After a short interval, Hoitle-mattee,
+one of the strongest opponents of the removal, rose to reply.  There is
+no order of precedence in such matters.  The tribes have their
+acknowledged orators, who are usually permitted to express the
+sentiments of the rest.  The head chief was present, seated in the
+middle of the ring, with a British crown upon his head--a relic of the
+American Revolution.  But "Onopa" was no orator, and waived his right to
+reply in favour of Hoitle-mattee--his son-in-law.
+
+The latter had the double reputation of being a wise councillor and
+brave warrior; he was, furthermore, one of the most eloquent speakers in
+the nation.  He was the "prime-minister" of Onopa, and, to carry the
+comparison into classic times, he might be styled the Ulysses of his
+people.  He was a tall, spare man, of dark complexion, sharp aquiline
+features, and somewhat sinister aspect.  He was not of the Seminole
+race, but, as he stated himself, a descendant of one of the ancient
+tribes who peopled Florida in the days of the early Spaniards.  Perhaps
+he was a Yamassee, and his dark skin would favour this supposition.
+
+His powers of oratory may be gathered from his speech:
+
+"At the treaty of Moultrie, it was engaged that we should rest in peace
+upon the land allotted to us for twenty years.  All difficulties were
+buried, and we were assured that if we died, it should not be by the
+violence of the white man, but in the course of nature.  The lightning
+should not rive and blast the tree, but the cold of old age should dry
+up the sap, and the leaves should wither and fall, and the branches
+drop, and the trunk decay and die.
+
+"The deputation stipulated at the talk on the Oclawaha to be sent on the
+part of the nation, was only authorised to _examine_ the country to
+which it was proposed to remove us, and bring back its report to the
+nation.  We went according to agreement, and saw the land.  It is no
+doubt good land, and the fruit of the soil may smell sweet, and taste
+well, and be healthy, but it is surrounded with bad and hostile
+neighbours, and the fruit of bad neighbourhood is blood that spoils the
+land, and fire that dries up the brook.  Even of the horses we carried
+with us, some were stolen by the Pawnees, and the riders obliged to
+carry their packs on their backs.  You would send us among bad Indians,
+with whom we could never be at rest.
+
+"When we saw the land, we said nothing; but the agents of the United
+States made us sign our hands to a paper which _you_ say signified our
+consent to remove, but _we considered_ we did no more than say we liked
+the land, and when we returned, the _nation would decide_.  We had no
+authority to do more.
+
+"Your talk is a good one, but my people cannot say they will go.  The
+people differ in their opinions, and must be indulged with time to
+reflect.  They cannot consent now; they are not willing to go.  If their
+tongues say yes, their hearts cry no, and call them liars.  We are not
+hungry for other lands--why should we go and hunt for them?  We like our
+own land, we are happy here.  If suddenly we tear our hearts from the
+homes round which they are twined, our heart-strings will snap.  We
+cannot consent to go--_we will not go_!"
+
+A chief of the removal party spoke next.  He was "Omatla," one of the
+most powerful of the tribe, and suspected of an "alliance" with the
+agent.  His speech was of a pacific character, recommending his
+red-brothers not to make any difficulty, but act as honourable men, and
+comply with the treaty of the Oclawaha.
+
+It was evident this chief spoke under restraint.  He feared to show too
+openly his partiality for the plans of the commissioner, dreading the
+vengeance of the patriot warriors.  These frowned upon him as he stood
+up, and he was frequently interrupted by Arpiucki, Coa Hajo, and others.
+
+A bolder speech, expressing similar views, was delivered by Lusta Hajo
+(the Black Clay).  He added little to the argument; but by his superior
+daring, restored the confidence of the traitorous party and the
+equanimity of the commissioner, who was beginning to exhibit signs of
+impatience and excitement.
+
+"Holata Mico" next rose on the opposite side--a mild and gentlemanly
+Indian, and one of the most regarded of the chiefs.  He was in ill
+health, as his appearance indicated; and in consequence of this, his
+speech was of a more pacific character than it might otherwise have
+been; for he was well-known to be a firm opponent of the removal.
+
+"We come to deliver our talk to-day.  We are all made by the same Great
+Father; and are all alike his children.  We all came from the same
+mother; and were suckled at the same breast.  Therefore, we are
+brothers; and, as brothers, should not quarrel, and let our blood rise
+up against each other.  If the blood of one of us, by each other's blow,
+should fall upon the earth, it would stain it, and cry aloud for
+vengeance from the land wherever it had sunk, and call down the frown
+and the thunder of the Great Spirit.  I am not well.  Let others who are
+stronger speak, and declare their minds."
+
+Several chiefs rose successively and delivered their opinions.  Those
+for removal followed the strain of Omatla and the Black Clay.  They were
+"Obala" (the big warrior), the brothers Itolasse and Charles Omatla, and
+a few others of less note.
+
+In opposition to those, spoke the patriots "Acola," "Yaha Hajo" (mad
+wolf), "Echa Matta" (the water-serpent), "Poshalla" (the dwarf), and the
+negro "Abram."  The last was an old "refugee," from Pensacola; but now
+chief of the blacks living with the Micosauc tribe [Note 2], and one of
+the counsellors of Onopa, over whom he held supreme influence.  He spoke
+English fluently; and at the council--as also that of the Oclawaha--he
+was the principal interpreter on the part of the Indians.  He was a pure
+negro, with the thick lips, prominent cheek-bones, and other physical
+peculiarities of his race.  He was brave, cool, and sagacious; and
+though only an adopted chief, he proved to the last the true friend of
+the people who had honoured him by their confidence.  His speech was
+brief and moderate; nevertheless it evinced a firm determination to
+resist the will of the agent.
+
+As yet, the "king" had not declared himself, and to him the commissioner
+now appealed.  Onopa was a large, stout man, of somewhat dull aspect,
+but not without a considerable expression of dignity.  He was not a man
+of great intellect, nor yet an orator; and although the head "mico" of
+the nation, his influence with the warriors was not equal to that of
+several chiefs of inferior rank.  His decision, therefore, would by no
+means be regarded as definitive, or binding upon the others; but being
+nominally "mico-mico," or chief-chief, and actually head of the largest
+clan--the Micosaucs--his vote would be likely to turn the scale, one way
+or the other.  If he declared for the removal, the patriots might
+despair.
+
+There was an interval of breathless silence.  The eyes of the whole
+assemblage, of both red men and white men, rested upon the king.  There
+were only a few who were in the secret of his sentiments; and how he
+would decide, was to most of those present a matter of uncertainty.
+Hence the anxiety with which they awaited his words.
+
+At this crisis, a movement was observed among the people who stood
+behind the king.  They were making way for some one who was passing
+through their midst.  It was evidently one of authority, for the crowd
+readily yielded him passage.
+
+The moment after, he appeared in front--a young warrior, proudly
+caparisoned, and of noble aspect.  He wore the insignia of a chief; but
+it needed not this to tell that he was one; there was that in his look
+and bearing which at once pronounced him a leader of men.
+
+His dress was rich, without being frivolous or gay.  His tunic, embraced
+by the bright wampum sash, hung well and gracefully; and the
+close-fitting leggings of scarlet cloth displayed the perfect sweep of
+his limbs.  His form was a model of strength--terse, well-knit,
+symmetrical.  His head was turbaned with a shawl of brilliant hues; and
+from the front rose three black ostrich-plumes, that drooped backward
+over the crown till their tips almost touched his shoulders.  Various
+ornaments were suspended from his neck; but one upon his breast was
+conspicuous.  It was a circular plate of gold, with lines radiating from
+a common centre.  It was a representation of the Rising Sun.
+
+His face was stained of a uniform vermilion red: but despite the
+levelling effect of the dye, the lineaments of noble features could be
+traced.  A well-formed mouth and chin, thin lips, a jawbone expressive
+of firmness, a nose slightly aquiline, a high, broad forehead, with eyes
+that, like the eagle's, seemed strong enough to gaze against the sun.
+
+The appearance of this remarkable man produced an electric effect upon
+all present.  It was similar to that exhibited by the audience in a
+theatre on the _entree_ of the great tragedian for whom they have been
+waiting.
+
+Not from the behaviour of the young chief himself--withal right modest--
+but from the action of the others, I perceived that he was in reality
+the hero of the hour.  The _dramatis personae_, who had already
+performed their parts, were evidently but secondary characters; and this
+was the man for whom all had been waiting.
+
+There followed a movement--a murmur of voices--an excited tremor among
+the crowd--and then, simultaneously, as if from one throat, was shouted
+the name, "Osceola!"
+
+------------------------------------------------------------------------
+
+Note 1.  _Smilax pseudo-China_.  From its roots the Seminoles make the
+_conti_, a species of jelly--a sweet and nourishing food.
+
+Note 2.  The Micosauc (Micosaukee) or tribe of the "redstick," was the
+largest and most warlike of the nation.  It was under the immediate
+government of the head chief Onopa--usually called "Miconopa."
+
+
+
+CHAPTER TWENTY EIGHT.
+
+THE RISING SUN.
+
+Yes, it was Osceola, "the Rising Sun" [Note 1]--he whose fame had
+already reached to the farthest corner of the land--whose name had
+excited such an interest among the cadets at college--outside the
+college--in the streets--in the fashionable drawing-room--everywhere; he
+it was who had thus unexpectedly shown himself in the circle of chiefs.
+
+A word about this extraordinary young man.
+
+Suddenly emerging from the condition of a common warrior--a sub-chief,
+with scarcely any following--he had gained at once, and as if by magic,
+the confidence of the nation.  He was at this moment the hope of the
+patriot party--the spirit that was animating them to resistance, and
+every day saw his influence increasing.  Scarcely more appropriate could
+have been his native appellation.
+
+One might have fancied him less indebted to accident than design for the
+name, had it not been that which he had always borne among his own
+people.  There was a sort of prophetic or typical adaptation in it, for
+at this time he was in reality the Rising Sun of the Seminoles.  He was
+so regarded by them.
+
+I noticed that his arrival produced a marked effect upon the warriors.
+He may have been present upon the ground all the day, but up to that
+moment he had not shown himself in the front circle of the chiefs.  The
+timid and wavering became reassured by his appearance, and the
+traitorous chiefs evidently cowered under his glance.  I noticed that
+the Omatlas, and even the fierce Lusta Hajo regarded him with uneasy
+looks.
+
+There were others besides the red men who were affected by his sudden
+advent.  From the position in which I stood, I had a view of the
+commissioner's face; I noticed that his countenance suddenly paled, and
+there passed over it a marked expression of chagrin.  It was clear that
+with him the "Rising Sun" was anything but welcome.  His hurried words
+to Clinch reached my ears--for I stood close to the general, and could
+not help overhearing them.
+
+"How unfortunate!" he muttered in a tone of vexation.  "But for him, we
+should have succeeded.  I was in hopes of nailing them before he should
+arrive.  I told him a wrong hour, but it seems to no purpose.  Deuce
+take the fellow! he will undo all.  See! he is earwigging Onopa, and the
+old fool listens to him like a child.  Bah!--he will obey him like a
+great baby, as he is.  It's all up, general; we must come to blows."
+
+On hearing this half-whispered harangue, I turned my eyes once more upon
+him who was the subject of it, and regarded him more attentively.  He
+was still standing behind the king, but in a stooping attitude, and
+whispering in the ear of the latter--scarcely whispering, but speaking
+audibly in their native language.  Only the interpreters could have
+understood what he was saying, and they were too distant to make it out.
+His earnest tone, however--his firm yet somewhat excited manner--the
+defiant flash of his eye, as he glanced toward the commissioner--all
+told that he himself had no intention to yield; and that he was
+counselling his superior to like bold opposition and resistance.
+
+For some moments there was silence, broken only by the whisperings of
+the commissioner on one side, and the muttered words passing between
+Osceola and the mico on the other.  After a while even these sounds were
+hushed, and a breathless stillness succeeded.
+
+It was a moment of intense expectation, and one of peculiar interest.
+On the words which Onopa was about to utter, hung events of high
+import--important to almost every one upon the ground.  Peace or war,
+and therefore life or death, was suspended over the heads of all
+present.  Even the soldiers in the lines were observed with outstretched
+necks in the attitude of listening; and upon the other side, the Indian
+boys, and the women with babes in their arms, clustered behind the
+circle of warriors, their anxious looks betraying the interest they felt
+in the issue.
+
+The commissioner grew impatient; his face reddened again.  I saw that he
+was excited and angry--at the same time he was doing his utmost to
+appear calm.  As yet he had taken no notice of the presence of Osceola,
+but was making pretence to ignore it, although it was evident that
+Osceola was at that moment the main subject of his thoughts.  He only
+looked at the young chief by side-glances, now and again turning to
+resume his conversation with the general.
+
+This by-play was of short duration.  Thompson could endure the suspense
+no longer.
+
+"Tell Onopa," said he to the interpreter, "that the council awaits his
+answer."
+
+The interpreter did as commanded.
+
+"I have but one answer to make," replied the taciturn king, without
+deigning to rise from his seat; "I am content with my present home; I am
+not going to leave it."
+
+A burst of applause from the patriots followed this declaration.
+Perhaps these were the most popular words that old Onopa had ever
+uttered.  From that moment he was possessed of real kingly power, and
+might command in his nation.
+
+I looked round the circle of the chiefs.  A smile lit up the gentlemanly
+features of Holata Mico; the grim face of Hoitle-mattee gleamed with
+joy: the "Alligator," "Cloud," and Arpiucki exhibited more frantic signs
+of their delight; and even the thick lips of Abram were drawn flat over
+his gums, displaying his double tier of ivories in a grin of triumphant
+satisfaction.
+
+On the other hand, the Omatlas and their party wore black looks.  Their
+gloomy glances betokened their discontent; and from their gestures and
+attitudes, it was evident that one and all of them were suffering under
+serious apprehension.
+
+They had cause.  They were no longer suspected, no longer traitors only
+attainted; their treason was now patent--it had been declared.
+
+It was fortunate for them that Fort King was so near--well that they
+stood in the presence of that embattled line.  They might need its
+bayonets to protect them.
+
+The commissioner had by this time lost command of his temper.  Even
+official dignity gave way, and he now descended to angry exclamations,
+threats, and bitter invective.
+
+In the last he was personal, calling the chiefs by name, and charging
+them with faithlessness and falsehood.  He accused Onopa of having
+already signed the treaty of the Oclawaha; and when the latter denied
+having done so, the commissioner told him he _lied_.  [Again
+historically true--the very word used!]  Even the savage did not
+reciprocate the vulgar accusation, but treated it with silent disdain.
+
+After spending a portion of his spleen upon various chiefs of the
+council, he turned towards the front and in a loud, angry tone cried
+out: "It is _you_ who have done this--_you_, Powell!"
+
+I started at the word.  I looked to see who was addressed--who it was
+that bore that well-known name.
+
+The commissioner guided my glance both by look and gesture.  He was
+standing with arm outstretched, and finger pointed in menace.  His eye
+was bent upon the young war-chief--upon Osceola!
+
+All at once a light broke upon me.  Already strange memories had been
+playing with my fancy; I thought that through the vermilion paint I saw
+features I had seen before.
+
+Now I recognised them.  In the young Indian hero, I beheld the friend of
+my boyhood--the preserver of my life--the brother of Maumee.
+
+------------------------------------------------------------------------
+
+Note 1.  Osceola--written Oceola, Asseola, Assula, Hasseola, and in a
+dozen other forms of orthography--in the Seminole language, signifies
+the Rising Sun.
+
+
+
+CHAPTER TWENTY NINE.
+
+THE ULTIMATUM.
+
+Yes--Powell and Osceola were one; the boy, as I had predicted, now
+developed into the splendid man--a hero.
+
+Under the impulsive influences of former friendship and present
+admiration, I could have rushed forward and flung my arms around him;
+but it was neither time nor place for the display of such childish
+enthusiasm.  Etiquette--duty forbade it; I kept my ground, and, as well
+as I could, the composure of my countenance, though I was unable to
+withdraw my eyes from what had now become doubly an object of
+admiration.
+
+There was little time for reflection.  The pause created by the rude
+speech of the commissioner had passed; the silence was again broken--
+this time by Osceola himself.
+
+The young chief, perceiving that it was he who had been singled out,
+stepped forth a pace or two, and stood confronting the commissioner, his
+eye fixed upon him, in a glance, mild, yet firm and searching.
+
+"Are you addressing me?" he inquired in a tone that evinced not the
+slightest anger or excitement.
+
+"Who else than you?" replied the commissioner abruptly.  "I called you
+by name--Powell."
+
+"My name is _not_ Powell."
+
+"Not Powell?"
+
+"No!" answered the Indian, raising his voice to its loudest pitch, and
+looking with proud defiance at the commissioner.  "You may call me
+Powell, if you please, _you, General Wiley Thompson_,"--slowly and with
+a sarcastic sneer, he pronounced the full titles of the agent; "but
+know, sir, that I scorn the white man's baptism.  I am an Indian; I am
+the child of my mother [Note 1]; my name is Osceola."
+
+The commissioner struggled to control his passion.  The sneer at his
+plebeian cognomen stung him to the quick, for Powell understood enough
+of English nomenclature to know that "Thompson" was not an aristocratic
+appellation; and the sarcasm cut keenly.
+
+He was angry enough to have ordered the instant execution of Osceola,
+had it been in his power; but it was not.  Three hundred warriors trod
+the ground, each grasping his ready rifle, quite a match for the troops
+at the post; besides the commissioner knew that such rash indulgence of
+spleen might not be relished by his government.  Even the Ringgolds--his
+dear friends and ready advisers--with all the wicked interest they might
+have in the downfall of the Rising Sun, were wiser than to counsel a
+proceeding like that.
+
+Instead of replying, therefore to the taunt of the young chief, the
+commissioner addressed himself once more to the council.
+
+"I want no more talking," said he with the air of a man speaking to
+inferiors; "we have had enough already.  Your talk has been that of
+children, of men without wisdom or faith: I will no longer listen to it.
+
+"Hear, then, what your Great Father says, and what he has sent me to say
+to you.  He has told me to place before you this paper."  The speaker
+produced a fold of parchment, opening it as he proceeded: "It is the
+treaty of Oclawaha.  Most of you have already signed it.  I ask you now
+to step forward and confirm your signatures."
+
+"I have not signed it," said Onopa, urged to the declaration by Osceola,
+who stood by behind him.  "I shall not sign it now.  Others may act as
+they please; I shall not go from my home.  I shall not leave Florida."
+
+"Nor I," added Hoitle-mattee, in a determined tone.  "I have fifty kegs
+of powder: so long as a grain of it remains unburned, I shall not be
+parted from my native land."
+
+"His sentiments are mine," added Holata.
+
+"And mine!" exclaimed Arpiucki.
+
+"And mine?" echoed Poshalla (the dwarf), Coa Hajo, Cloud, and the negro
+Abram.
+
+The patriots alone spoke; the traitors said not a word.  The signing was
+a test too severe for them.  They had all signed it before at the
+Oclawaha; but now, in the presence of the nation, they dared not confirm
+it.  They feared even to advocate what they had done.  They remained
+silent.
+
+"Enough!" said Osceola, who had not yet publicly expressed his opinion,
+but who was now expected to speak, and was attentively regarded by all.
+"The chiefs have declared themselves; they refuse to sign.  It is the
+voice of the nation that speaks through its chiefs, and the people will
+stand by their word.  The agent has called us children and fools; it is
+easy to give names.  We know that there are fools among us, and children
+too, and worse than both--_traitors_.  But there are men, and some as
+true and brave as the agent himself.  He wants no more talk with us--be
+it so; we have no more for _him_--he has our answer.  He may stay or go.
+
+"Brothers!" continued the speaker, facing to the chiefs and warriors,
+and as if disregarding the presence of the whites, "you have done right;
+you have spoken the will of the nation, and the people applaud.  It is
+false that we wish to leave our homes and go west.  They who say so are
+deceivers, and do not speak our mind.  We have no desire for this _fine
+land_ to which they would send us.  It is not as fair as our own.  It is
+a wild desert, where in summer the springs dry up and water is hard to
+find.  From thirst the hunter often dies by the way.  In winter, the
+leaves fall from the trees, snow covers the ground, frost stiffens the
+clay, and chills the bodies of men, till they shiver in pain--the whole
+country looks as though the earth were dead.  Brothers! we want no cold
+country like that; we like our own land better.  If it be too hot, we
+have the shade of the live-oak, the big laurel [Note 2], and the noble
+palm-tree.  Shall we forsake the land of the palm?  No!  Under its
+shadow have we lived: under its shadow let us die!"
+
+Up to this point the interest had been increasing.  Indeed, ever since
+the appearance of Osceola, the scene had been deeply impressive--never
+to be effaced from the memory, though difficult to be described in
+words.  A painter, and he alone, might have done justice to such a
+picture.
+
+It was full of points, thoroughly and thrillingly dramatic; the excited
+agent on one side, the calm chiefs on the other; the contrast of
+emotions; the very women who had left their unclad little ones to gambol
+on the grass and dally with the flowers, while they themselves, with the
+warriors pressed closely around the council, under the most intense, yet
+subdued, interest; catching every look as it gleamed from the
+countenance, and hanging on every word as it fell from the lips of
+Osceola.  The latter--his eye calm, serious, fixed--his attitude manly,
+graceful, erect--his thin, close-pressed lip, indicative of the "mind
+made up"--his firm, yet restrained, tread, free from all stride or
+swagger--his dignified and composed bearing--his perfect and solemn
+silence, except during his sententious talk--the head thrown backward,
+the arms firmly folded on the protruding chest--all, all instantaneously
+changing, as if by an electric shock, whenever the commissioner stated a
+proposition that he knew to be false or sophistic.  At such times the
+fire-flash of his indignant eye--the withering scorn upon his upcurled
+lip--the violent and oft repeated stamping of his foot--his clenched
+hand, and the rapid gesticulation of his uplifted arm--the short, quick
+breathing and heaving of his agitated bosom, like the rushing wind and
+swelling wave of the tempest-tossed ocean, and these again subsiding
+into the stillness of melancholy, and presenting only that aspect and
+attitude of repose wherewith the ancient statuary loved to invest the
+gods and heroes of Greece.
+
+The speech of Osceola brought matters to a crisis.  The commissioner's
+patience was exhausted.  The time was ripe to deliver the dire threat--
+the ultimatum--with which the president had armed him; and, not bating
+one jot of his rude manner, he pronounced the infamous menace:
+
+"You will not sign?--you will not consent to go?  I say, then you
+_must_.  War will be declared against you--troops will enter your land--
+you will be forced from it at the point of the bayonet."
+
+"Indeed!" exclaimed Osceola, with a derisive laugh.  "Then be it so!" he
+continued.  "Let war be declared!  Though we love peace, we fear not
+war.  We know your strength: your people outnumber us by millions; but
+were there as many more of them, they will not compel us to submit to
+injustice.  We have made up our minds to endure death before dishonour.
+Let war be declared!  Send your troops into our land; perhaps they will
+not force us from it so easily as you imagine.  To your muskets we will
+oppose our rifles, to your bayonets, our tomahawks; and your starched
+soldiers will be met, face to face, by the warriors of the Seminole.
+Let war be declared!  We are ready for its tempest.  The hail may
+rattle, and the flowers be crushed; but the strong oak of the forest
+will lift its head to the sky and the storm, towering and unscathed."
+
+A yell of defiance burst from the Indian warriors at the conclusion of
+this stirring speech; and the disturbed council threatened a disruption.
+Several of the chiefs, excited by the appeal, had risen to their feet,
+and stood with lowering looks, and arms stretched forth in firm, angry
+menace.
+
+The officers of the line had glided to their places, and in an undertone
+ordered the troops into an attitude of readiness; while the artillerists
+on the bastions of the fort were seen by their guns, while the tiny
+wreath of blue smoke told that the fuse had been kindled.
+
+For all this, there was no danger of an outbreak.  Neither party was
+prepared for a collision at that moment.  The Indians had come to the
+council with no hostile designs, else they would have left their wives
+and children at home.  With them by their sides, they would not dream of
+making an attack; and their white adversaries dared not, without better
+pretext.  The demonstration was only the result of a momentary
+excitement, and soon subsided to a calm.
+
+The commissioner had stretched his influence to its utmost.  His threats
+were now disregarded as had been his wheedling appeal; and he saw that
+he had no longer the power to effect his cherished purpose.
+
+But there was still hope in time.  There were wiser heads than his upon
+the ground, who saw this: the sagacious veteran Clinch and the crafty
+Ringgolds saw it.
+
+These now gathered around the agent, and counselled him to the adoption
+of a different course.
+
+"Give them time to consider," suggested they.  "Appoint to-morrow for
+another meeting.  Let the chiefs discuss the matter among themselves in
+private council, and not as now, in presence of the people.  On calmer
+reflection, and when not intimidated by the crowd of warriors, they may
+decide differently, particularly now that they know the alternative; and
+perhaps," added Arens Ringgold--who, to other bad qualities, added that
+of a crafty diplomatist--"perhaps the more hostile of them will not stay
+for the council of to-morrow: you do not want _all_ their signatures."
+
+"Right," replied the commissioner, catching at the idea.  "Right--it
+shall be done;" and with this laconic promise, he faced once more to the
+council of chiefs.
+
+"Brothers!" he said, resuming the tone in which he had first addressed
+them, "for, as the brave chief Holata has said, we are all brothers.
+Why, then, should we separate in anger?  Your Great Father would be sad
+to hear that we had so parted from one another.  I do not wish you
+hastily to decide upon this important matter.  Return to your tents--
+hold your own councils--discuss the matter freely and fairly among
+yourselves, and let us meet again to-morrow; the loss of a day will not
+signify to either of us.  To-morrow will be time enough to give your
+decision; till then, let us be friends and brothers."
+
+To this harangue, several of the chiefs replied.  They said it was "good
+talk," and they would agree to it; and then all arose to depart from the
+ground.
+
+I noticed that there was some confusion in the replies.  The chiefs were
+not unanimous in their assent.  Those who agreed were principally of the
+Omatla party; but I could hear some of the hostile warriors, as they
+strode away from the ground, declare aloud their intention to return no
+more.
+
+------------------------------------------------------------------------
+
+Note 1.  The child follows the fortunes of the mother.  The usage is not
+Seminole only, but the same with all the Indians of America.
+
+Note 2.  _Magnolia grandiflora_.  So styled in the language of the
+Indians.
+
+
+
+CHAPTER THIRTY.
+
+TALK OVER THE TABLE.
+
+Over the mess-table I gathered much knowledge.  Men talk freely while
+the wine is flowing, and under the influence of champagne, the wisest
+grow voluble.
+
+The commissioner made little secret either of his own designs or the
+views of the President, but most already guessed them.
+
+He was somewhat gloomed at the manner in which the day's proceedings had
+ended, and by the reflection that his diplomatic fame would suffer--a
+fame ardently aspired to by all agents of the United States government.
+Personal slights, too, had he received from Osceola and others--for the
+calm cold Indian holds in scorn the man of hasty temper; and this
+weakness had he displayed to their derision throughout the day.  He felt
+defeated, humiliated, resentful against the men of red skin.  On the
+morrow, he flattered himself that he would make them feel the power of
+his resentment--teach them that, if passionate, he was also firm and
+daring.
+
+As the wine warmed him, he said as much in a half boasting way; he
+became more reckless and jovial.
+
+As for the military officers, they cared little for the _civil_ points
+of the case, and took not much part in the discussion of its merits.
+Their speculations ran upon the probability of strife--war, or no war?
+That was the question of absorbing interest to the men of the sword.  I
+heard much boasting of _our_ superiority, and decrying of the strength
+and the courage of the prospective enemy.  But to this, there were
+dissentient opinions expressed by a few old "Indian fighters" who were
+of the mess.
+
+It is needless to say that Oceola's character was commented upon; and
+about the young chief, opinions were as different as vice from virtue.
+With some, he was the "noble savage" he seemed; but I was astonished to
+find the majority dissent from this view.  "Drunken savage," "cattle
+thief," "impostor," and such-like appellations were freely bestowed upon
+him.
+
+I grew irate; I could not credit these accusations.  I observed that
+most of those who made them were comparative strangers--new comers--to
+the country, who could not know much of the past life of him with whose
+name they were making so free.
+
+The Ringgolds joined in the calumny, and they must have known him well;
+but I comprehended _their_ motives.
+
+I felt that I owed the subject of the conversation a word of defence;
+for two reasons: he was absent--he had saved my life.  Despite the
+grandeur of the company, I could not restrain my tongue.
+
+"Gentlemen," I said, speaking loud enough to call the attention of the
+talkers, "can any of you prove these accusations against Osceola?"
+
+The challenge produced an awkward silence.  No one could exactly prove
+either the drunkenness, the cattle-stealing, or the imposture.
+
+"Ha?" at length ejaculated Arens Ringgold, in his shrill squeaky voice,
+"you are his defender, are you, Lieutenant Randolph?"
+
+"Until I hear better evidence than mere assertion, that he is not worthy
+of defence."
+
+"Oh! that may be easily obtained," cried one; "everybody knows what the
+fellow is, and has been--a regular cow-stealer for years."
+
+"You are mistaken there," I replied to this confident speaker; "I do not
+know it--do you, sir?"
+
+"Not from personal experience, I admit," said the accuser, somewhat
+taken aback by the sudden interrogation.
+
+"Since you are upon the subject of cattle-stealing, gentlemen, I may
+inform you that I met with a rare incident only yesterday, connected
+with the matter.  If you will permit me, I shall relate it."
+
+"Oh! certainly--by all means, let us have it."
+
+Being a stranger, I was indulged with a patient hearing.  I related the
+episode of lawyer Grubb's cattle, omitting names.  It created some
+sensation.  I saw that the commander-in-chief was impressed with it,
+while the commissioner looked vexed, as if he would rather I had held my
+tongue.  But the strongest effect was produced upon the Ringgolds--
+father and son.  Both appeared pale and uneasy; perhaps no one noticed
+this except myself, but I observed it with sufficient distinctness to be
+left under the full impression, that both knew more of the matter than I
+myself!
+
+The conversation next turned upon "runaways"--upon the number of negroes
+there might be among the tribes--upon the influence they would exert
+against us in case of a conflict.
+
+These were topics of serious importance.  It was well-known there were
+large numbers of black and yellow men "located," in the reserve: some as
+agriculturists--some graziers--not a few wandering through the savannas
+and forests, rifle in hand--having adopted the true style of Indian
+hunter-life.
+
+The speakers estimated their numbers variously: the lowest put them at
+500, while some raised their figure to a 1000.
+
+_All these would be against us to a man_.  There was no dissent to that
+proposition.
+
+Some alleged they would fight badly; others, bravely; and these spoke
+with more reason.  All agreed that they would greatly aid the enemy, and
+give us trouble, and a few went so far as to say, that we had more to
+fear from the "black runaways" than the "red runaways."  In this
+expression, there was a latent jest.
+
+[The Seminoles were originally of the great tribe of Muscogees (Creeks).
+Seceding from these, for reasons not known, the Seminoles passed
+southward into Florida; and obtained from their former kindred the name
+they now bear, which in their own tongue has the signification of
+"runaway."]
+
+There could be no doubt that the negroes would take up arms in the
+pending struggle; and no more, that they would act with efficiency
+against us.  Their knowledge of the white man's "ways" would enable them
+to do so.  Besides, the negro is no coward; their courage has been
+ofttimes proved.  Place him in front of a _natural_ enemy--a thing of
+flesh, bone, and blood, armed with gun and bayonet--and the negro is not
+the man to flinch.  It is otherwise if the foe be not physical, but
+belonging to the world of Obeah.  In the soul of the unenlightened child
+of Afric, superstition is strong indeed; he lives in a world of ghosts,
+ghouls, and goblins, and his dread of these supernatural spirits is real
+cowardice.
+
+As the conversation continued on the subject of the blacks, I could not
+help noticing the strong animus that actuated the speakers--especially
+the planters in the civilian garb.  Some waxed indignant--even wroth to
+vulgarity--threatening all sorts of punishment to such runaways as might
+be captured.  They gloated over the prospect of restoration, but as much
+at the idea of a not distant revenge.  Shooting, hanging, burning,
+_barbecuing_, were all spoken of, besides a variety of other tortures
+peculiar to this southern land.  Rare punishments--no lack of them--were
+promised in a breath to the unfortunate absconder who should chance to
+get caught.
+
+You who live far away from such sentiments can but ill comprehend the
+moral relations of caste and colour.  Under ordinary circumstances,
+there exists between white and black no feeling of hostility--quite the
+contrary.  The white man is rather kindly disposed towards his coloured
+_brother_; but only so long as the latter opposes not his will.  Let the
+black but offer resistance--even in the slightest degree--and then
+hostility is quickly kindled, justice and mercy are alike disregarded--
+vengeance is only felt.
+
+This is a general truth; it will apply to every one who owns a slave.
+
+Exceptionally, the relation is worse.  There are white my in the
+southern States who hold the life of a black at but slight value--just
+the value of his market price.  An incident in the history of young
+Ringgold helps me to an illustration.  But the day before, my "squire,"
+Black Jake had given me the story.
+
+This youth, with some other boys of his acquaintance, and of like
+dissolute character, was hunting in the forest.  The hounds had passed
+beyond hearing, and no one could tell the direction they had taken.  It
+was useless riding further, and the party halted, leaped from their
+saddles, and tied their horses to the trees.
+
+For a long time the baying of the beagles was not heard, and the time
+hung heavily on the hands of the hunters.  How were they to pass it?
+
+A negro boy chanced to be near "chopping" wood.  They knew the boy well
+enough--one of the slaves on a neighbouring plantation.
+
+"Let's us have some sport with the darkie," suggested one.
+
+"What sport?"
+
+"Let us hang him for sport."
+
+The proposal of course produced a general laugh.
+
+"Joking apart," said the first speaker, "I should really like to try how
+much hanging a nigger _could_ bear without being killed outright."
+
+"So should I," rejoined a second.
+
+"And so I, too," added a third.
+
+The idea took; the experiment promised to amuse them.
+
+"Well, then, let us make trial; that's the best way to settle the
+point."
+
+The trial _was_ made--I am relating a _fact_--the unfortunate boy was
+seized upon, a noose was adjusted round his neck, and he was triced up
+to the branch of a tree.
+
+Just at that instant, a stag broke past with the hounds in full cry.
+The hunters ran to their horses, and in the excitement, forgot to cut
+down the victim of their deviltry.  One left the duty to another, and
+all neglected it!
+
+When the chase was ended, they returned to the spot; the negro was still
+hanging from the branch--he was dead!
+
+There was a trial--the mere mockery of a trial.  Both judge and jury
+were the relatives of the criminals; and the sentence was, that the
+negro _should be paid for_!  The owner of the slave was contented with
+the price; justice was satisfied, or supposed to be; and Jake had heard
+hundreds of white Christians, _who knew the tale to be true_, laughing
+at it as a capital joke.  As such, Arens Ringgold was often in the habit
+of detailing it!
+
+You on the other side of the Atlantic hold up your hands and cry
+"Horror!"  You live in the fancy you have no slaves--no cruelties like
+this.  You are sadly in error.  I have detailed an exceptional case--an
+individual victim.  Land of the workhouse and the jail! your victims are
+legion.
+
+Smiling Christian! you parade your compassion, but you have made the
+misery that calls it forth.  You abet with easy concurrence the _system_
+that begets all this suffering; and although you may soothe your spirit
+by assigning crime and poverty to _natural causes_, nature will not be
+impugned with impunity.  In vain may you endeavour to shirk your
+individual responsibility.  For every cry and canker, you will be held
+responsible in the sight of God.
+
+------------------------------------------------------------------------
+
+The conversation about runaways naturally guided my thoughts to the
+other and more mysterious adventure of yesterday; having dropped a hint
+about this incident, I was called upon to relate it in detail.  I did
+so--of course scouting the idea that my intended assassin could have
+been Yellow Jake.  A good many of those present knew the story of the
+mulatto, and the circumstances connected with his death.
+
+Why was it, when I mentioned his name, coupled with the solemn
+declaration of my sable groom--why was it that Arens Ringgold started,
+turned pale, and whispered some words in the ear of his father?
+
+
+
+CHAPTER THIRTY ONE.
+
+THE TRAITOR CHIEFS.
+
+Soon after, I retired from the mess-table, and strolled out into the
+stockade.
+
+It was now after sunset.  Orders had been issued for no one to leave the
+fort; but translating these as only applicable to the common soldier, I
+resolved to sally forth.
+
+I was guided by an impulse of the heart.  In the Indian camp were the
+wives of the chiefs and warriors--their sisters and children--why not
+she among the rest?
+
+I had a belief that she was there--although, during all that day, my
+eyes had been wandering in vain search.  She was not among those who had
+crowded around the council: not a face had escaped my scrutiny.
+
+I resolved to seek the Seminole camp--to go among the tents of the
+Micosaucs--there, in all likelihood, I should find Powell--there I
+should meet with Maumee.
+
+There would be no danger in entering the Indian camp--even the hostile
+chiefs were yet in relations of friendship with us; and surely Powell
+was still _my_ friend?  He could protect me from peril or insults.
+
+I felt a longing to grasp the hand of the young warrior, that of itself
+would have influenced me to seek the interview.  I yearned to renew the
+friendly confidence of the past--to talk over those pleasant times--to
+recall those scenes of halcyon brightness.  Surely the sterner duties of
+the chief and war-leader had not yet indurated a heart, once mild and
+amiable?  No doubt the spirit of my former friend was embittered by the
+white man's injustice; no doubt I should find him rancorous against our
+race; he had reason--still I had no fears that I myself was not an
+exception to this wholesale resentment.
+
+Whatever the result, I resolved to seek him, and once more extend to him
+the hand of friendship.
+
+I was on the eve of setting forth, when a summons from the
+commander-in-chief called me to his quarters.  With some chagrin, I
+obeyed the order.
+
+I found the commissioner there, with the officers of higher rank--the
+Ringgolds and several other civilians of distinction.
+
+On entering, I perceived that they were in "caucus," and had just ended
+the discussion of some plan of procedure.
+
+"The design is excellent," observed General Clinch, addressing himself
+to the others; "but how are Omatla and `Black Dirt' [Note 1] to be met?
+If we summon them hither, it may create suspicion; they could not enter
+the fort without being observed."
+
+"General Clinch," said the elder Ringgold--the most cunning diplomatist
+of the party--"if you and General Thompson were to meet the friendly
+chiefs outside?"
+
+"Exactly so," interrupted the commissioner.  "I have been thinking of
+that.  I have sent a messenger to Omatla, to inquire if he can give us a
+secret meeting.  It will be best to see them outside.  The man has
+returned--I hear him."
+
+At this moment, a person entered the room, whom I recognised as one of
+the interpreters who had officiated at the council.  He whispered
+something to the commissioner, and then withdrew.
+
+"All right, gentlemen!" exclaimed the latter, as the interpreter went
+out; "Omatla will meet us within the hour.  Black Dirt will be with him.
+They have named the `Sink' as the place.  It lies to the north of the
+fort.  We can reach it without passing the camp, and there will be no
+risk of our being observed.  Shall we go, General?"
+
+"I am ready," replied Clinch, taking up his cloak, and throwing it over
+his shoulders; "but, General Thompson," said he, turning to the
+commissioner, "how about your interpreters?  Can they be intrusted with
+a secret of so much importance?"
+
+The commissioner appeared to hesitate.  "It might be imprudent," he
+replied at length, in a half soliloquy.
+
+"Never mind, then--never mind," said Clinch; "I think we can do without
+them.  Lieutenant Randolph," continued he, turning to me, "you speak the
+Seminole tongue fluently?"
+
+"Not fluently, General; I speak it, however."
+
+"You could interpret it fairly."
+
+"Yes, General; I believe so."
+
+"Very well, then; that will do.  Come with us!"
+
+Smothering my vexation, at being thus diverted from my design, I
+followed in silence--the commissioner leading the way, while the
+General, disguised in cloak and plain forage cap, walked by his side.
+
+We passed out of the gate, and turned northward around the stockade.
+The tents of the Indians were upon the southwest, placed irregularly
+along the edge of a broad belt of "hommocky" woods that extended in that
+direction.  Another tract of hommock lay to the north, separated from
+the larger one by savannas and open forests of pine timber.  Here was
+the "Sink."  It was nearly half a mile distant from the stockade; but in
+the darkness we could easily reach it without being observed from any
+part of the Seminole camp.
+
+We soon arrived upon the ground.  The chiefs were before us.  We found
+them standing under the shadows of the trees by the edge of the pond.
+
+My duty now began.  I had little anticipation that it was to have been
+so disagreeable.
+
+"Ask Omatla what is the number of his people--also those of Black Dirt,
+and the other chiefs who are for us."
+
+I put the question as commanded.
+
+"One-third of the whole Seminole nation," was the ready reply.
+
+"Tell them that ten thousand dollars shall be given to the friendly
+chiefs, on their arrival in the west, to be shared among them as they
+deem best--that this sum is independent of the appropriation to the
+whole tribe."
+
+"It is good," simultaneously grunted the chiefs, when the proposition
+was explained to them.
+
+"Does Omatla and his friends think that all the chiefs will be present
+to-morrow?"
+
+"No--not all."
+
+"Which of them are likely to be absent?"
+
+"The mico-mico will not be there."
+
+"Ha!  Is Omatla sure of that?"
+
+"Sure.  Onopa's tents are struck: he has already left the ground."
+
+"Whither has he gone?"
+
+"Back to his town."
+
+"And his people?"
+
+"Most of them gone with him."
+
+For some moments the two generals communicated together in a half
+whisper.  They were apart from me: I did not not hear what they said.
+The information just acquired was of great importance, and seemed not to
+discontent them.
+
+"Any other chief likely to be absent to-morrow?" they asked, after a
+pause.
+
+"Only those of the tribe of `redsticks.'"  [Note 2.]
+
+"Hoitle-mattee?"
+
+"No--he is here--he will remain."
+
+"Ask them if they think _Osceola_ will be at the council to-morrow."
+
+From the eagerness with which the answer was expected, I could perceive
+that this was the most interesting question of all.  I put it directly.
+
+"What!" exclaimed the chiefs, as if astonished at the interrogatory.
+"The Rising Sun!  He is sure to be present: he will _see it out_!"
+
+"Good!" involuntarily ejaculated the commissioner, and then turning to
+the General, he once more addressed him in a low tone.  This time, I
+overheard what passed between them.
+
+"It seems, General, as if Providence was playing into our hands.  My
+plan is almost sure to succeed.  A word will provoke the impudent rascal
+to some rudeness--perhaps worse--at all events, I shall easily fix a
+pretext for shutting him up.  Now that Onopa has drawn off his
+following, we will be strong enough for any contingency.  The hostiles
+will scarcely outnumber the friendly, so that there will no chance of
+the rascals making resistance."
+
+"Oh! that we need not fear."
+
+"Well--with _him_ once in our power the opposition will be crushed--the
+rest will yield easily--for, beyond doubt, it is he that now intimidates
+and hinders them from signing."
+
+"True," replied Clinch in a reflective tone; "but how about the
+government, eh?  Will it endorse the act, think you?"
+
+"It will--it must--my latest dispatch from the President almost suggests
+as much.  If you agree to act, I shall take the risk."
+
+"Oh, I place myself under your orders," replied the commander-in-chief,
+evidently inclined to the commissioner's views, but still not willing to
+share the responsibility.  "It is but my duty to carry out the will of
+the executive.  I am ready to cooperate with you."
+
+"Enough then--it shall be done as we have designed it.  Ask the chiefs,"
+continued the speaker, addressing himself to me, "ask them, if they have
+any fear of signing to-morrow."
+
+"No--not of the signing, but _afterwards_."
+
+"And what afterwards?"
+
+"They dread an attack from the hostile party--their lives will be in
+danger."
+
+"What would they have us do?"
+
+"Omatla says, if you will permit him and the other head chiefs to go on
+a visit to their friends at Tallahassee, it will keep them out of
+danger.  They can stay there till the removal is about to take place.
+They give their promise that they will meet you at Tampa, or elsewhere,
+whenever you summon them."
+
+The two generals consulted together--once more in whispers.  This
+unexpected proposal required consideration.
+
+Omatla added:
+
+"If we are not allowed to go to Tallahassee, we cannot, we dare not,
+stay at home; we must come under the protection of the fort."
+
+"About your going to Tallahassee," replied the commissioner, "we shall
+consider it, and give you an answer to-morrow.  Meanwhile, you need not
+be under any apprehension.  This is the war-chief of the whites; he will
+protect you."
+
+"Yes," said Clinch, drawing himself proudly up.  "My warriors are
+numerous and strong.  There are many in the fort, and many more on the
+way.  You have nothing to fear."
+
+"It is good!" rejoined the chiefs.  "If troubles arise, we shall seek
+your protection; you have promised it--it is good."
+
+"Ask the chiefs," said the commissioner, to whom a new question had
+suggested itself--"ask them if they know whether Holata Mico will remain
+for the council of to-morrow."
+
+"We cannot tell now.  Holata Mico has not declared his intention.  We
+shall soon know it.  If he designs to stay his tents will stand till the
+rising of the sun; if not, they will be struck before the moon goes
+down.  The moon is sinking--we shall soon know whether Holata Mico will
+go or stay."
+
+"The tents of this chief are not within sight of the fort?"
+
+"No--they are back among the trees."
+
+"Can you send word to us?"
+
+"Yes, but only to this place; our messenger would be seen entering the
+fort.  We can come back here ourselves, and meet one from you."
+
+"True--it is better so," replied the commissioner, apparently pleased
+with the arrangement.
+
+A few minutes passed, during which the two generals communicated with
+each other in while whispers, the chiefs stood apart, silent and
+immobile as a pair of statues.
+
+The commander-in-chief at length broke the silence:
+
+"Lieutenant! you will remain upon the ground till the chiefs return.
+Get their report, and bring it direct to my quarters."
+
+Salutations were exchanged; the two generals walked off on the path that
+led to the fort, while the chiefs glided silently away in the opposite
+direction.  I was left alone.
+
+------------------------------------------------------------------------
+
+Note 1.  So Lusta Hajo was called by the Americans.  His full name was
+Fuchta-Lusta-Hajo, which signifies "Black Crazy Clay."
+
+Note 2.  A name given to the Micosaucs, from their custom of setting up
+red poles in front of their houses when going to war.  A similar custom
+exists among other tribes; hence the name "Baton Rouge," applied by the
+French colonists.
+
+
+
+CHAPTER THIRTY TWO.
+
+SHADOWS IN THE WATER.
+
+Alone with my thoughts, and these tainted with considerable acerbity.
+More than one cause contributed to their bitterness.  My pleasant
+purpose thwarted--my heart aching for knowledge--for a renewal of tender
+ties--distracted with doubts--wearied with protracted suspense.
+
+In addition to these, my mind was harassed by other emotions I
+experienced disgust at the part I had been playing.  I had been made the
+mouth-piece of chicanery and wrong; aiding conspiracy had been the first
+act of my warlike career; and although it was not the act of my own
+will, I felt the disagreeableness of the duty--a sheer disgust in its
+performance.
+
+Even the loveliness of the night failed to soothe me.  Its effect was
+contrary; a storm would have been more congenial to my spirit.
+
+And it was a lovely night.  Both the earth and the air were at peace.
+
+Here and there the sky was fleeced with white cirrhi, but so thinly,
+that the moon's disk, passing behind them, appeared to move under a
+transparent gauze-work of silver, without losing one ray of her
+effulgence.  Her light was resplendent in the extreme; and, glancing
+from the glabrous leaves of the great laurels, caused the forests to
+sparkle, as though beset with a million of mirrors.  To add to the
+effect, fire-flies swarmed under the shadows of the trees, their bodies
+lighting up the dark aisles with a mingled coruscation of red, blue and
+gold--now flitting in a direct line, now curving, or waving upward and
+downward, as though moving through the mazes of some intricate
+_cotillon_.
+
+In the midst of all this glittering array, lay the little tarn, shining,
+too, but with the gleam of plated glass--a mirror in its framework of
+fretted gild.
+
+The atmosphere was redolent of the most agreeable perfumes.  The night
+was cool enough for human comfort, but not chill.  Many of the flowers
+refused to close their corollas--for not all of them were brides of the
+sun.  The moon had its share of the sweets.  The sassafras and bay-trees
+were in blossom, and dispensed their odours around, that, mingling with
+the aroma of the aniseed and the orange, created a delicious fragrance
+in the air.
+
+There was a stillness in the atmosphere, but not silence.  It is never
+silent in the southern forests by night.  Tree-frogs and cicadas utter
+their shrillest notes after the sun has gone out of sight, and there is
+a bird that makes choice melody during the moonlight hours--the famed
+mimic of the American woods.  One, perched upon a tall tree that grew
+over the edge of the pond, appeared trying to soothe my chafed spirit
+with his sweet notes.
+
+I heard other sounds--the hum of the soldiery in the fort, mingling with
+the more distant noises from the Indian camp, now and then some voice
+louder than the rest, in oath, exclamation, or laughter, broke forth to
+interrupt the monotonous murmur.
+
+How long should I have to wait the return of the chiefs?  It might be an
+hour, or two hours, or more?  I had a partial guide in the moon.  They
+said that Holata would depart before the shining orb went down, or not
+at all.  About two hours, then, would decide the point, and set me free.
+
+I had been standing for half the day.  I cared not to keep my feet any
+longer; and choosing a fragment of rock near the water's edge, I sat
+down upon it:
+
+My eyes wandered over the pond.  Half of its surface lay in shadow; the
+other half was silvered by the moonbeams, that, penetrating the pellucid
+water, rendered visible the white shells and shining pebbles at the
+bottom.  Along the line where the light and darkness met, were outlined
+several noble palms, whose tall stems and crested crowns appeared
+stretching towards the nadir of the earth--as though they belonged to
+another and a brighter firmament beneath my feet.  The trees, of which
+these were but the illusory images, grew upon the summit of a ridge,
+which, trending along the western side of the pond, intercepted the rays
+of the moon.
+
+I sat for some time gazing into this counterpart of heaven's canopy,
+with my eyes mechanically tracing the great fan-like fronds.
+
+All at once, I was startled at perceiving a new image upon the aqueous
+reflector.  A form, or rather the shadow of one, suddenly appeared among
+the trunks of the palms.  It was upright, and evidently human, though of
+magnified proportions--beyond a doubt, a human figure, yet not that of a
+man.
+
+The small head, apparently uncovered, the gentle rounding of the
+shoulders, the soft undulation of the waist, and the long, loose draping
+which reached nearly to the ground, convinced me that the shadow was
+that of a woman.
+
+When I first observed it, it was moving among the stems of the
+palm-trees; presently it stopped, and for some seconds remained in a
+fixed attitude.  It was then I noted the peculiarities that distinguish
+the sex.
+
+My first impulse was to turn round, and, if possible, get a sight of the
+figure that cast this interesting shadow.  I was myself on the western
+edge of the pond, and the ridge was behind me.  Facing round I could not
+see the summit nor yet the palms.  Rising to my feet, I still could not
+see them: a large live-oak, under which I had seated myself,
+intercepting my view.
+
+I stepped hastily to one side, and then both the outline of the ridge
+and the palm-trees were before my eyes; but I could see no figure,
+neither of man nor woman.
+
+I scanned the summit carefully, but no living thing was there; some
+fronds of the saw-palmetta, standing along the crest, were the only
+forms I could perceive.
+
+I returned to where I had been seated; and, placing myself as before,
+again looked upon the water.  The palm shadows were there, just as I had
+left them; but the image was gone.
+
+There was nothing to be astonished at.  I did not for a moment believe
+myself under any delusion.  Some one had been upon the ridge--a woman, I
+supposed--and had passed down under the cover of the trees.  This was
+the natural explanation of what I had seen, and of course contented me.
+
+At the same time, the silent apparition could not fail to arouse my
+curiosity; and instead of remaining seated, and giving way to dreamy
+reflections, I rose to my feet, and stood looking and listening with
+eager expectation.
+
+Who could the woman be?  An Indian, of course.  It was not probable that
+a white woman should be in such a place, and at such an hour.  Even the
+peculiar outlines of the shadow were not those that would have been cast
+by one habited in a garb of civilisation: beyond a doubt, the woman was
+an Indian.
+
+What was she doing in that solitary place, and alone?
+
+These questions were not so easily answered; and yet there was nothing
+so remarkable about her presence upon the spot.  To the children of the
+forest, time is not as with us.  The hours of the night are as those of
+the day--often the hours of action or enjoyment.  She might have many a
+purpose in being there.  She might be on her way to the pond for water--
+to take a bath; or it might be some impassioned maiden, who, under the
+secret shadows of this secluded grove, was keeping assignation with her
+lover.
+
+A pang, like a poisoned arrow, passed through my heart: "_might it be
+Maumee_?"
+
+The unpleasantness which this conjecture caused me is indescribable.  I
+had been all day the victim of dire suspicions, arising from some
+half-dozen words, casually dropped from the lips of a young officer, and
+which I had chanced to overhear.  They had reference to a beautiful girl
+among the Indians, apparently well-known at the fort; and I noticed that
+the tone of the young fellow was that of one either triumphant or
+boasting.  I listened attentively to every word, and watched not only
+the countenance of the speaker, but those of his auditory--to make out
+in which of the two categories I should place him.  His vanity appeared
+to have had some sacrifice made to it--at least by his own statement;
+and his listeners, or most of them, agreed to concede to him the
+happiness of a _bonne fortune_.  There was no name given--no hint that
+would enable me to connect the subject of the conversation with that of
+my own thoughts; but that the girl was an Indian, and a "beauty," were
+points, that my jealous heart almost accepted as sufficient for
+identification.
+
+I might easily have become satisfied.  A word, a simple question, would
+have procured me the knowledge I longed for; and yet I dared not say
+that word.  I preferred passing long hours--a whole day--upon the rack
+of uncertainty and suspicion.
+
+Thus, then, was I prepared for the painful conjectures that sprang into
+my thoughts on beholding that mirrored form.
+
+The pain was of short duration; almost instantaneous was the relief.  A
+shadowy figure was seen gliding around the edge of the pond; it emerged
+into the open moonlight, not six paces from where I stood.  I had a full
+and distinct view of it.  It was a woman--an Indian woman.  It was _not_
+Maumee.
+
+
+
+CHAPTER THIRTY THREE.
+
+HAJ-EWA.
+
+I saw before me a woman of middle age--somewhere between thirty and
+forty--a large woman, who once possessed beauty--beauty that had been
+abused.  She was the wreck of a grand loveliness, whose outlines could
+not be effaced--like the statue of some Grecian goddess, broken by
+Vandal hands, but whose very fragments are things of priceless value.
+
+Not that her charms had departed.  There are men who affect to admire
+this ripe maturity; to them, she would have been a thing of peerless
+splendour.  Time had made no inroad upon those large rounded arms, none
+upon the elliptical outlines of that noble bust.  I could judge of
+this--for it was before my eyes, in the bright moonlight, nude, from
+neck to waist, as in the hour of infancy.  Alone the black hair, hanging
+in wild dishevelment over the shoulders, formed a partial shrouding.
+Nor had time laid a finger upon this: amidst all that profusion of rich
+raven clusters, not a strand of silver could be detected.
+
+Time could not affect, nor had it, that fine facial outline.  The
+moulding of the chin; the oval of those lips; the aquiline nose, with
+its delicate spirally curved nostril; the high, smooth front; the eye--
+the eye--what is it? why that unearthly flash? that wild unmeaning
+glance?  Ha! that eye--Merciful heavens! _the woman is mad_!
+
+Alas! it was true--she was mad.  Her glance would have satisfied even a
+casual observer, that reason was no longer upon its throne.  But I
+needed not to look at her eye; I knew the story of her misfortunes, of
+her wrongs.  It was not the first time I had looked upon that womanly
+form--more than once I had stood face to face with Haj-Ewa [Note 1], the
+mad queen of the Micosaucs.
+
+Beautiful as she was, I might have felt fear at her presence--still
+worse than fear, I might have been terrified or awed--the more so on
+perceiving that her necklace was a green serpent; that the girdle around
+her waist, that glittered so conspicuously in the light of the moon, was
+the body of an enormous rattlesnake, living and writhing!
+
+Yes, both were alive--the smaller serpent wound about her neck, with its
+head resting upon her bosom; the more dangerous reptile knotted around
+her waist, its vertebrated tail hanging by her side, while its head,
+held in her hand, protruding through her fingers, exhibited a pair of
+eyes that scintillated like diamonds.
+
+On the head of Haj-Ewa was no other covering than that which nature had
+provided for it; but those thick black clusters afforded ample
+protection against sun and storm.  On her feet she wore moccasins, but
+those were hidden by the long "hunna," that reached to the ground.  This
+was the only garment she wore.  It was profusely adorned with beads and
+embroidery--with the bright plumage of the green parroquet--the skin of
+the summer-duck, and the for of various wild animals.  It was fastened
+round her waist, though not by the girdle already described.
+
+Truly, I might have felt terror, had this singular appearance been new
+to me.  But I had seen all before--the green snake, and the crotalus,
+the long hanging tresses, the wild flash of that maniac eye--all before,
+all harmless, all innocuous--at least to me.  I knew it, and had no
+fear.
+
+"Haj-Ewa!"  I called out, as she advanced to where I was standing.
+
+"I-e-ela!"  [an expression of astonishment, usually lengthened out into
+a sort of drawl] exclaimed she with a show of surprise.
+
+"Young Randolph! war-chief among the pale-faces!  You have not then
+forgotten poor Haj-Ewa?"
+
+"No, Ewa, I have not.  What seek you here?"
+
+"Yourself, little mico."
+
+"Seek _me_?"
+
+"No--I have found you."
+
+"And what want you with me?"
+
+"Only to save your life, your young of life, pretty mico--your fair
+life--your precious life--ah! precious to her, poor bird of the forest!
+Ah! there was one precious to me--long, long ago.  Ho, ho, ho!
+
+  "O why did I trust in a pale-faced lover?
+          Ho, ho, ho!  [Literally, Yes, yes, yes!]
+  Why did I meet him in the wild woods' cover?
+          Ho, ho, ho!
+  Why did I list to his lying tongue,
+  That poisoned my heart when my life was young?
+          Ho, ho, ho!
+
+"Down, _chitta mico_!"  [Note 1] she cried, interrupting the strain, and
+addressing herself to the rattlesnake, that at my presence had protruded
+his head, and was making demonstrations of rage--"down, great king of
+the serpents! 'tis a friend, though in the garb of an enemy--quiet, or I
+crush your head!"
+
+"I-e-ela!" she exclaimed again, as if struck by some new thought; "I
+waste time with my old songs; he is gone, he is gone! they cannot bring
+him back.  Now, young mico, what came I for? what came I for?"
+
+As she uttered these interrogatives, she raised her hand to her head, as
+if to assist her memory.
+
+"Oh! now I remember.  _Hulwak_ [it is bad].  I lose time.  You may be
+killed, young mico--you may be killed, and then--Go! begone, begone,
+begone! back to the topekee [fort].  Shut yourself up; keep among your
+people: do not stray from your blue soldiers; do not wander in the
+woods!  Your life is in danger."
+
+All this was spoken in a tone of earnestness that astonished me.  More
+than astonished, I began to feel some slight alarm, since I had not
+forgotten the attempted assassination of yesterday.  Moreover, I knew
+that there were periods when this singular woman was not positively
+insane.  She had her lucid intervals, during which she both talked and
+acted rationally, and often with extraordinary intelligence.  This might
+be one of those intervals.  She might be privy to some scheme against my
+life, and had come, as she alleged, to defeat it.
+
+But who was my enemy or enemies? and how could she have known of their
+design?
+
+In order to ascertain this, I said to her:
+
+"I have no enemy, Ewa; why should my life be in danger?"
+
+"I tell you, pretty mico, it is--you have enemies.  I-e-ela! you do not
+know it?"
+
+"I never wronged a red man in my life."
+
+"Red--did I say red man?  _Cooree_ [boy], pretty Randolph, there is not
+a red man in all the land of the Seminoles that would pluck a hair from
+your head.  Oh! if they did, what would say the Rising Sun?  He would
+consume them like a forest fire.  Fear not the red men--your enemies are
+not of that colour."
+
+"Ha! not red men?  What, then?"
+
+"Some white--some yellow."
+
+"Nonsense, Ewa!  I have never given a white man cause to be my enemy."
+
+"_Chepawnee_ [fawn] you are but a young fawn, whose mother has not told
+it of the savage beasts that roam the forest.  There are wicked men who
+are enemies without a cause.  There are some who seek your life, though
+you never did them wrong."
+
+"But who are they?  And for what reason?"
+
+"Do not ask, chepawnee!  There is not time.  Enough if I tell you, you
+are owner of a rich plantation, where black men make the blue dye.  You
+have a fair sister--very fair.  Is she not like a beam from yonder moon?
+And I was fair once--so he said.  Ah! it is bad to be beautiful Ho, ho,
+ho!
+
+  "Why did I trust in a pale-faced lover?
+  Ho, ho, ho!  Why did I meet him--
+
+"_Hulwak_!" she exclaimed, again suddenly breaking off the strain: "I am
+mad; but I remember.  Go! begone!  I tell you, go: you are but an
+_echochee_ [fawn], and the hunters are upon your trail.  Back to the
+topekee--go! go!"
+
+"I cannot, Ewa; I am here for a purpose; I must remain till some one
+comes."
+
+"Till some one comes! _hulwak_! _they_ will come soon."
+
+"Who?"
+
+"Your enemies--they who would kill you; and then the pretty doe will
+bleed--her poor heart will bleed: she will go mad--she will be like
+Haj-Ewa."
+
+"Whom do you speak of?"
+
+"Of--Hush! hush! hush!  It is too late--they come--they come! see their
+shadows upon the water!"
+
+I looked, as Haj-Ewa pointed.  Sure enough there were shadows upon the
+pond, just where I had seen hers.  They were the figures of men--four of
+them.  They were moving among the palm-trees, and along the ridge.
+
+In a few seconds the shadows disappeared.  They who had been causing
+them had descended the slope, and entered among the timber.
+
+"It is too late now," whispered the maniac, evidently at that moment in
+full possession of her intellect.  "You dare not go out into the open
+woods.  They would see you--you must stay in the thicket.  There!"
+continued she, grasping me by the wrist, and, with a powerful jerk,
+bringing me close to the trunk of the live-oak: "this is your only
+chance.  Quick--ascend!  Conceal yourself among the moss.  Be silent--
+stir not till I return.  _Hinklas_!"  [It is good--it is well.]
+
+And so saying, my strange counsellor stepped back under the shadow of
+the tree; and, gliding into the umbrageous covert of the grove,
+disappeared from my sight.
+
+I had followed her directions, and was now ensconced upon one of the
+great limbs of the live-oak--perfectly hidden from the eyes of any one
+below by festoons of the silvery _tillandsia_.  These, hanging from
+branches still higher up, draped around me like a set of gauze curtains,
+and completely enveloped my whole body; while I myself had a view of the
+pond--at least, that side of it on which the moon was shining--by means
+of a small opening between the leaves.
+
+At first I fancied I was playing a very ridiculous _role_.  The story
+about enemies, and my life being in danger, might, after all, be nothing
+more than some crazy fancy of the poor maniac's brain.  The men, whose
+shadows I had seen, might be the chiefs on their return.  They would
+reach the ground where I had appointed to meet them, and not finding me
+there, would go back.  What kind of report should I carry to
+head-quarters?  The thing was ridiculous enough--and for me, the result
+might be worse than ridiculous.
+
+Under these reflections, I felt strongly inclined to descend, and meet
+the men--whoever they might be--face to face.
+
+Other reflections, however, hindered me.  The chiefs were only _two_--
+there were _four_ shadows.  True, the chiefs might be accompanied by
+some of their followers--for better security to themselves on such a
+traitorous mission--but I had noticed, as the shadows were passing over
+the pond--and notwithstanding the rapidity with which they moved--that
+the figures were not _those of Indians_.  I observed no hanging drapery,
+nor plumes.  On the contrary, I fancied there were _hats_ upon their
+heads, such as are worn only by white men.  It was the observation of
+this peculiarity that made me so ready to yield obedience to the
+solicitations of Haj-ewa.
+
+Other circumstances had not failed to impress me: the strange assertions
+made by the Indian woman--her knowledge of events, and the odd allusions
+to well-known persons--the affair of yesterday: all these, commingling
+in my mind, had the effect of determining me to remain upon my perch, at
+least for some minutes longer.  I might be relieved from my unpleasant
+position sooner than I expected.
+
+Without motion, almost without breathing, I kept my seat, my eyes
+carefully watching, and ears keenly bent to catch every sound.
+
+My suspense was brief.  The acuteness of my eyes was rewarded by a
+sight, and my ears by a tale, that caused my flesh to creep, and the
+blood to run cold in my veins.  In five minutes' time, I was inducted
+into a belief in the wickedness of the human heart, exceeding in
+enormity all that I had ever read or heard of.
+
+Four demons filed before me--demons, beyond a doubt: their looks, which
+I noted well--their words, which I heard--their gestures, which I saw--
+their designs, with which I in that hour became acquainted--fully
+entitled them to the appellation.
+
+They were passing around the pond.  I saw their faces, one after
+another, as they emerged into the moonlight.
+
+Foremost appeared the pale, thin visage of Arens Ringgold; next, the
+sinister aquiline features of Spence; and, after him, the broad brutal
+face of the bully Williams.
+
+There were _four_--who was the fourth?
+
+"Am I dreaming?--Do my eyes deceive me?  Is it real?  Is it an illusion?
+Are my senses gone astray--or is it only a resemblance, a counterpart?
+No--no--no!  It is no counterpart, but the man himself!--that black
+curling hair, that tawny skin, the form, the gait--all, all are his.  _O
+God! it is Yellow Jake_!"
+
+------------------------------------------------------------------------
+
+Note 1.  Literally, "crazy wife," from _Haja_, crazy, and _Ewa_ or
+_Awa_, wife.  Philologists have remarked the resemblance of this
+Muscogee word to the Hebraic name of the mother of mankind.
+
+Note 2.  "Chief of the snakes"--the rattlesnake is so styled by the
+Seminoles, being the most remarkable serpent in their country.  They
+have a superstitions dread of this reptile.
+
+
+
+CHAPTER THIRTY FOUR.
+
+A PRETTY PLOT.
+
+To dispute the identity was to doubt the evidence of my senses.  The
+mulatto was before me--just as I remembered him--though with changed
+apparel, and perhaps grown a little bigger in body.  But the features
+were the same--that _tout ensemble_ the same as that presented by Yellow
+Jake, the _ci-devant_ woodman of our plantation.
+
+And yet how could it _possibly_ be he?  And in the company of Arens
+Ringgold too, one of the most active of his intended executioners?  No,
+no, no! altogether improbable--utterly impossible!  Then must I be
+deluded--my eyes deceiving me--for as certain as I looked upon man, I
+was looking upon Jake the mulatto!  He was not twenty feet from where I
+lay hidden; his face was full towards me; the moon was shining upon it
+with a brilliancy scarcely inferior to the light of day.  I could note
+the old expression of evil in his eyes, and mark the play of his
+features.  It _was_ Yellow Jake.
+
+To confirm the impression, I remembered that, notwithstanding all
+remonstrance and ridicule, the black pertinaciously adhered to his
+story.  He would listen to no compromise, no hypothesis founded upon
+resemblance.  He had seen Yellow Jake, or his ghost.  This was his firm
+belief, and I had been unable to shake it.
+
+Another circumstance I now remember: the strange behaviour of the
+Ringgolds during the postprandial conversation--the action of Arens when
+I mentioned the mulatto's name.  It had attracted my attention at the
+time, but what was I to think now?  Here was a man supposed to be dead,
+in company of three others who had been active in assisting at his
+death--one of them the very keenest of his executioners, and all four
+now apparently as thick as thieves!  How was I to explain, in one
+moment, this wonderful resurrection and reconciliation?
+
+I could not explain it--it was too complicated a mystery to be
+unravelled by a moment's reflection; and I should have failed, had not
+the parties themselves soon after aided me to an elucidation.
+
+I had arrived at the only natural conclusion, and this was, that the
+mulatto, notwithstanding the perfect resemblance, _could not be_ Yellow
+Jake.  This, of course, would account for everything, after a manner;
+and had the four men gone away without parley, I should have contented
+myself with this hypothesis.
+
+But they went not, until after affording me an opportunity of
+overhearing a conversation, which gave me to know, that, not only was
+Yellow Jake _still in the land of the living_, but that Haj-Ewa had
+spoken the truth, when she told me _my life was in danger_.
+
+"Damn! he's not here, and yet where can he have gone?"
+
+The ejaculation and interrogative were in the voice of Arens Ringgold,
+uttered in a tone of peevish surprise.  Some one was sought for by the
+party who could not be found.  Who that was, the next speaker made
+manifest.
+
+There was a pause, and then reached my ears the voice of Bill Williams--
+which I easily recognised, from having heard it but the day before.
+
+"You are sartint, Master Arens, he didn't sneak back to the fort 'long
+wi' the ginral?"
+
+"Sure of it," replied Master Arens; "I was by the gate as they came in.
+There were only the two--the general and the commissioner.  But the
+question is, did he leave the hommock along with them?  There's where we
+played devil's fool with the business--in not getting here in time, and
+watching them as they left.  But who'd have thought he was going to stay
+behind them; if I had only known that--You say," he continued, turning
+to the mulatto--"you say, _Jake_, you came direct from the Indian camp?
+He couldn't have passed you on the path."
+
+"_Carajo_!  _Senor_ Aren!  No?"
+
+The voice, the old Spanish expression of profanity, just as I had heard
+them in my youth.  If there had been doubt of the identity, it was gone.
+The testimony of my ears confirmed that of my eyes.  The speaker was
+Yellow Jake.
+
+"Straight from Seminole come.  Cat no pass me on the road; I see her.
+Two chiefs me meet.  I hide under the palmettoes; they no me see.
+_Carrambo_! no."
+
+"Deuce take it! where can he have gone!  There's no signs of him here.
+I know he _might have a reason_ for paying a visit to the Indians--that
+I know; but how has he got round there without Jake seeing him!"
+
+"What's to hinder him to hev goed round the tother road?"
+
+"By the open plain?"
+
+"Yes--that away."
+
+"No--he would not be likely.  There's only one way I can explain it: he
+must have come as far as the gate along with the general, and then kept
+down the stockade, and past the sutler's house--that's likely enough."
+
+This was said by Ringgold in a sort of half soliloquy.
+
+"Devils?" he exclaimed in an impatient tone, "we'll not get such a
+chance soon again."
+
+"Ne'er a fear, Master Arens," said Williams--"ne'er a fear.  Plenty o'
+chances, I kalkerlate--gobs o' chances sech times as these."
+
+"We'll make chances," pithily added Spence, who now spoke for the first
+time in my hearing.
+
+"Ay, but here was a chance for _Jake--he_ must do it, boys; neither of
+you must have a hand in it.  It _might leak out_; and then we'd all be
+in a pretty pickle.  Jake can do it, and not harm himself, for _he's
+dead_, you know, and the law can't reach him!  Isn't it so, my yellow
+boy?"
+
+"_Carrambo! si, senor_.  No fear have, Don Aren Ringgol; 'for long, I
+opportunity find.  Jake you get rid of enemy--never hear more of him;
+soon Yellow Jake good chance have.  Yesterday miss.  She bad gun, Don
+Aren--not worth shuck gun."
+
+"He has not yet returned inside the fort," remarked Ringgold, again
+speaking in a half soliloquy.  "I think he has not.  If no, then he
+should be at the camp.  He must go back to-night.  It may be after the
+moon goes down.  He must cross the open ground in the darkness.  You
+hear, Jake, what I am saying?"
+
+"Si, senor; Jake hear all."
+
+"And you know how to profit by the hint, eh?"
+
+"_Carrambo_! si, senor.  Jake know."
+
+"Well, then, we must return.  Hear me, Jake--if--"
+
+Here the voice of the speaker fell into a half whisper, and I could not
+hear what was said.  Occasionally there were phrases muttered so loudly
+that I could catch their sound, and from what had already transpired,
+was enabled to apprehend something of their signification.  I heard
+frequently pronounced the names of Viola the quadroon, and that of my
+own sister; the phrases--"only one that stands in our way,"--"mother
+easily consent,"--"when I am master of the plantation,"--"pay you two
+hundred dollars."
+
+These, with others of like import, satisfied me that between the two
+fiends some contract for the taking of my life had already been formed;
+and that this muttered dialogue was only a repetition of the terms of
+the hideous bargain!
+
+No wonder that the cold sweat was oozing from my temples, and standing
+in bead-like drops upon my brow.  No wonder that I sat upon my perch
+shaking like an aspen--far less with fear than with horror at the
+contemplated crime--absolute horror.  I might have trembled in a greater
+degree, but that my nerves were to some extent stayed by the terrible
+indignation that was swelling up within my bosom.
+
+I had sufficient command of my temper to remain silent; it was prudent I
+did so; had I discovered myself at that moment, I should never have left
+the ground alive.  I felt certain of this, and took care to make no
+noise that might betray my presence.
+
+And yet it was hard to hear four men coolly conspiring against one's
+life--plotting and bargaining it away like a piece of merchandise--each
+expecting some profit from the speculation!
+
+My wrath was as powerful as my fears--almost too strong for prudence.
+There were four of them, all armed.  I had sword and pistols; but this
+would not have made me a match for four desperadoes such as they.  Had
+there been only two of them--only Ringgold and the mulatto--so desperate
+was my indignation, at that moment, I should have leaped from the tree
+and risked the encounter _coute qui coute_.
+
+But I disobeyed the promptings of passion, and remained silent till they
+had moved away.
+
+I observed that Ringgold and his brace of bullies went towards the fort,
+while the mulatto took the direction of the Indian camp.
+
+
+
+CHAPTER THIRTY FIVE.
+
+LIGHT AFTER DARKNESS.
+
+I stirred not till they were gone--till long after.  In fact, my mind
+was in a state of bewilderment, that for some moments hindered me either
+from acting or thinking; and I sat as if glued to the branch.
+Reflection came at length, and I began to speculate upon what I had just
+heard and seen.
+
+Was it a farce to frighten me?  No, no--they were not the characters of
+a farce--not one of the four; and the re-appearance of Yellow Jake,
+partaking as it did of the wild and supernatural, was too dramatic, too
+serious to form an episode in comedy.
+
+On the contrary, I had just listened to the prologue of an intended
+tragedy, of which I was myself to be the victim.  Beyond doubt, these
+men had a design upon my life!
+
+Four men, too, not one of whom could charge me with ever having done him
+a serious injury.  I knew that all four disliked me, and ever had--
+though Spence and Williams could have no other cause of offence than
+what might spring from boyish grudge--long-forgotten by me; but
+doubtless their motive was Ringgold's.  As for the mulatto, I could
+understand his hostility; though mistaken, it was of the deadliest kind.
+
+But what was I to think of Arens Ringgold, the leader in this designed
+assassination?  A man of some education--my equal in social rank--a
+gentleman!
+
+O Arens Ringgold--Arens Ringgold!  How was I to explain it?  How account
+for conduct so atrocious, so fiendish?
+
+I knew that this young man liked me but little--of late less than ever.
+I knew the cause too.  I stood in the way of his relations with my
+sister--at least so thought he.  And he had reason; for, since my
+father's death, I had spoken more freely of family affairs.  I had
+openly declared that, with my consent, he should never be my brother;
+and this declaration had reached him.  I could easily believe,
+therefore, that he was angry with me; but anger that would impel a man
+to such demoniac purpose, I could not comprehend.
+
+And what meant those half-heard phrases--"one that stands in our way,"
+"mother easily consent," "master of the plantation," coupled with the
+names of Viola and my sister?  What meant they?
+
+I could give them but one, and that a terrible interpretation--too
+fearful to dwell upon.
+
+I could scarcely credit my senses, scarcely believe that I was not
+labouring under some horrid hallucination, some confusion of the brain
+produced by my having been _en rapport_ with the maniac!
+
+But no; the moon had been over them--my eyes open upon them--my ears
+open, and could not have deceived me.  I saw what they did--I heard what
+they said.  They designed to kill me!
+
+"Ho, ho, young mico, you may come down.  The _honowaw-hulwa_ [bad men]
+are gone.  _Hinklas_!  Come down, pretty mico--down, down, down!"
+
+I hastened to obey, and stood once more in the presence of the mad
+queen.
+
+"Now you believe Haj-Ewa?  Have an enemy, young mico?  Ho--four enemies.
+Your life in danger?  Ho? ho?"
+
+"Ewa, you have saved my life; how am I to thank you for the service you
+have done me?"
+
+"Be true to _her_--true--true--true."
+
+"To whom?"
+
+"Great Spirit! he has forgotten her!  False young mico! false pale-face!
+Why did I save him?  Why did I not let his blood fall to the ground?"
+
+"Ewa!"
+
+"_Hulwak, hulwak_!  Poor forest-bird! the beauty-bird of all; her heart
+will sicken and die, her head will go mad."
+
+"Ewa, explain."
+
+"_Hulwak_! better he should die than desert her.  Ho, ho! false
+pale-face, would that he had died before he broke poor Ewa's heart; then
+Ewa would have lost only her heart; but her head--her head, that is
+worse.  Ho, ho, ho!
+
+  "Why did I trust in a pale-faced lover?
+          Ho, ho, ho!
+  Why did I meet him--"
+
+"Ewa," I exclaimed with an earnestness that caused the woman to leave
+off her wild song, "tell me! of whom do you speak?"
+
+"Great Spirit, hear what he asks!  Of whom?--of whom? there is more than
+one.  Ho, ho! there is more than one, and the true one forgotten.
+_Hulwak, hulwak_! what shall Ewa say?  What tale can Ewa tell?  Poor
+bird! her heart will bleed, and her brain be crushed.  Ho, ho!  There
+will be two Haj-Ewas--two mad queens of the Micosaucs."
+
+"For Heaven's sake! keep me not in suspense.  Tell me, Ewa, good Ewa, of
+whom are you speaking?  Is it--"
+
+The name trembled upon my tongue; I hesitated to pronounce it.
+Notwithstanding that my heart was full of delightful hope, from the
+confidence I felt of receiving an affirmative answer, I dreaded to put
+the question.
+
+Not a great while did I hesitate; I had gone too far to recede.  I had
+long waited to satisfy the wish of a yearning heart; I could wait no
+longer.  Ewa might give me the satisfaction.  I pronounced the words:
+
+"Is it--Maumee?"
+
+The maniac gazed upon me for some moments without speaking.  The
+expression of her eye I could not read; for the last few minutes, it had
+been one of reproach and scorn.  As I uttered the name, it changed to a
+look of bewilderment; and then her glance became fixed upon me, as if
+searching my thoughts.
+
+"If it be Maumee," I continued, without awaiting her reply--for I was
+now carried away by the ardour of my resuscitated passion--"if it be
+she, know, Ewa, that her I love--Maumee I love."
+
+"You love Maumee?  You still love Maumee?" interrogated the maniac with
+startling quickness.
+
+"Ay, Ewa--by my life--by my--"
+
+"_Cooree, cooree_! swear not--_his_ very oath.  _Hulwak_! and he was
+false.  Speak again, young mico? say you love Maumee--say you are true,
+but do not swear."
+
+"True--true?"
+
+"Hinklas!" cried the woman in a loud and apparently joyful
+tone--"_Hinklas_! the mico is true--the pretty pale-faced mico is true,
+and the _haintclitz_ [the pretty one] will be happy."
+
+          Ho, ho!
+  Now for the love, the sweet young love
+      Under the tala tree [Palm, _Chamaerops palmetto_].
+  Who would not be like yonder dove--
+          The wild little dove--
+          The soft little dove--
+  Sitting close by his mate in the shade of the grove--
+  Co-cooing to his mate in the shade of the grove,
+      With none to hear or see?
+
+"Down, _chitta mico_!" she exclaimed, once more addressing the
+rattlesnake; "and you, _ocola chitta_!  [Green snake.]  Be quiet both.
+It is _not_ an enemy.  Quiet, or I crush your heads!"
+
+"Good Ewa--"
+
+"Ho! you call me good Ewa.  Some day, you may call me bad Ewa.  Hear
+me!" she continued, raising her voice, and speaking with increased
+earnestness--"hear me, George Randolph!  If ever you are bad--false like
+_him_, like _him_, then Haj-Ewa will be your enemy; _chitta mico_ will
+destroy you.  You will, my king of serpents? you will?  Ho, ho, ho!"
+
+As she spoke the reptile appeared to comprehend her, for its head was
+suddenly raised aloft, its bright basilisk eyes gleamed as though
+emitting sparks of fire--its forked, glittering tongue was protruded
+from its mouth, and the "skirr-rr" of the rattles could be heard for
+some moments sounding continuously.
+
+"Quiet! now quiet!" said she, with a motion of her fingers, causing the
+serpent to resume its attitude of repose.  "Not he, _chitta_! not he,
+thou king of the crawlers!  Quiet, I say!"
+
+"Why do you threaten me, Ewa?  You have no cause."
+
+"_Hinklas_!  I believe it, fair mico, gallant mico; true, I believe it."
+
+"But, good Ewa, explain to me--tell me of--"
+
+"_Cooree, cooree_! not now, not to-night.  There is no time,
+_chepawnee_!  See! look yonder to the west!  _Netle-hasse_ [the night
+sun--the moon] is going to bed.  You must be gone.  You dare not walk in
+the darkness.  You must get back to the _topekee_ before the moon is
+hid--go, go, go!"
+
+"But I told you, Ewa, I had business here.  I dare not leave till it is
+done."
+
+"_Hulwak_! there is danger then.  What business, mico!  Ah!  I guess.
+See! they come for whom you wait?"
+
+"True--it is they, I believe."
+
+I said this, as I perceived the tall shadows of the two chiefs flitting
+along the further edge of the pond.
+
+"Be quick, then: do what you must, but waste not time.  In the darkness
+you will meet danger.  Haj-Ewa must be gone.  Good night, young mico:
+good night."
+
+I returned the salutation; and facing round to await the arrival of the
+chiefs, lost sight of my strange companion.
+
+The Indians soon came upon the ground, and briefly delivered their
+report.
+
+Holata Mico had struck his tents, and was moving away from the
+encampment.
+
+I was too much disgusted with these traitorous men to spend a moment in
+their company; and, as soon as I had gained the required information, I
+hurried away from their presence.
+
+Warned by Haj-Ewa, as well as by the words of Arens Ringgold, I lost no
+time in returning to the fort.  The moon was still above the horizon;
+and I had the advantage of her light to protect me from being surprised
+by any sudden onset.
+
+I walked hastily, taking the precaution to keep in the open ground, and
+giving a wide berth to any covert that might shelter an assassin.
+
+I saw no one on the way, nor around the back of the stockade.  On
+arriving opposite the gate of the fort, however, I perceived the figure
+of a man--not far from the sutler's store--apparently skulking behind
+some logs.  I fancied I knew the man; I fancied he was the mulatto.
+
+I would have gone after him, and satisfied myself; but I had already
+hailed the sentinel, and given the countersign; and I did not desire to
+cause a flurry among the guard--particularly as I had received
+injunctions to pass in as privately as possible.
+
+Another time, I should likely encounter this Jacob _redivivus_; when I
+should be less embarrassed, and perhaps have a better opportunity of
+calling him and his diabolical associates to an account.  With this
+reflection, I passed through the gate, and carried my report to the
+quarters of the commander-in-chief.
+
+
+
+CHAPTER THIRTY SIX.
+
+IN NEED OF A FRIEND.
+
+To pass the night under the same roof with a man who intends to murder
+you is anything but pleasant, and repose under the circumstance, is next
+to impossible.  I slept but little, and the little sleep I did obtain
+was not tranquil.
+
+Before retiring for the night, I had seen nothing of the Ringgolds,
+neither father nor son; but I knew they were still in the fort, where
+they were to remain as guests a day or two longer.  They had either gone
+to bed before my return, or were entertained in the quarters of some
+friendly officer.  At all events, they did not appear to me during the
+remainder of the night.
+
+Neither saw I aught of Spence and Williams.  These worthies, if in the
+fort, would find a lodgment among the soldiers, but I did not seek them.
+
+Most of the night I lay awake, pondering on the strange incidents of the
+day, or rather upon that one episode that had made me acquainted with
+such deadly enemies.
+
+I was in a state of sad perplexity as to what course I should pursue--
+uncertain all night long; and when daylight shone through the shutters,
+still uncertain.
+
+My first impulse had been to disclose the whole affair at head-quarters,
+and demand an investigation--a punishment.
+
+On reflection, this course would not do.  What proofs could I offer of
+so grave an accusation?  Only my own assertions, unbacked by any other
+evidence--unsustained even by probability--for who would have given
+credence to crime so unparalleled in atrocity?
+
+Though certain the assassins referred to me, I could not assert that
+they had even mentioned my name.  My story would be treated with
+ridicule, myself perhaps with something worse.  The Ringgolds were
+mighty men--personal friends both of the general and commissioner--and
+though known to be a little scoundrelly and unscrupulous in worldly
+affairs, still holding the rank of gentlemen.  It would need better
+evidence than I could offer to prove Arens Ringgold a would-be murderer.
+
+I saw the difficulty, and kept my secret.
+
+Another plan appeared more feasible--to accuse Arens Ringgold openly
+before all, and challenge him to mortal combat.  This, at least, would
+prove that I was sincere in my allegations.
+
+But duelling was against the laws of the service.  It would require some
+management to keep clear of an arrest--which of course would frustrate
+the scheme before satisfaction could be obtained.  I had my own thoughts
+about Master Arens Ringgold.  I knew his courage was but slippery.  He
+would be likely enough to play the poltroon; but whether so or not, the
+charge and challenge would go some way towards exposing him.
+
+I had almost decided on adopting this course, though it was morning
+before I had come to any determination.
+
+I stood sadly in need of a friend; not merely a second--for this I could
+easily procure--but a companion in whom I could confide, and who might
+aid me by his counsel.  As ill luck would have it, every officer in the
+fort was a perfect stranger to me.  With the Ringgolds alone had I any
+previous acquaintance.
+
+In my dilemma, I thought of one whose advice might stand me in good
+stead, and I determined to seek it.  Black Jake was the man--he should
+be my counsellor.
+
+Shortly after daylight the brave fellow was by my side.  I told him all.
+He appeared very little surprised.  Some suspicion of such a plot had
+already taken possession of his mind, and it was his intention to have
+revealed it to me that very morning.  Least of all did he express
+surprise about Yellow Jake.  That was but the confirmation of a belief,
+which he entertained already, without the shadow of a doubt.  He knew
+positively that the mulatto was living--still more, he had ascertained
+the mode by which the latter had made his almost miraculous escape.
+
+And yet it was simple enough.  The alligator had seized him, as was
+supposed; but the fellow had the adroitness to "job" its eyes with the
+knife, and thus cause it to let go its hold.  He had followed the
+example of the young Indian, using the same weapon!
+
+This occurred under water, for the mulatto was a good diver.  His limbs
+were lacerated--hence the blood--but the wounds did not signify, nor did
+they hinder him from making further efforts to escape.
+
+He took care not to rise to the surface until after swimming under the
+bank; there, concealed by the drooping branches, he had glided out, and
+climbed up into a live-oak--where the moss sheltered him from the eyes
+of his vengeful pursuers.  Being entirely naked, there was no sign left
+by dripping garments, to betray him; besides, the blood upon the water
+had proved his friend.  On seeing that, the hunters were under the full
+belief that he had "gone under," and therefore took but little pains to
+search further.
+
+Such was Black Jake's account of this affair.  He had obtained it the
+evening before from one of the friendly Indians at the fort, who
+professed to have the narration from the mulatto's own lips.
+
+There was nothing improbable in the story, but the contrary.  In all
+likelihood, it was strictly true; and it at once dispersed the
+half-dozen mysteries that had gathered in my mind.
+
+The black had received other information.  The runaway had taken refuge
+with one of the half-negro tribes established amid the swamps that
+envelop the head-waters of the Amazura.  He had found favour among his
+new associates, had risen to be a chief, and now passed under the
+cognomen of the "Mulatto-mica."
+
+There was still a little mystery: how came he and Arens Ringgold in
+"cahoot?"
+
+After all, there was not much puzzle in the matter.  The planter had no
+particular cause for hating the runaway.  His activity during the scene
+of the baffled execution was all a sham.  The mulatto had more reason
+for resentment; but the loves or hates of such men are easily set
+aside--where self-interest interferes--and can, at any time, be commuted
+for gold.
+
+No doubt, the white villain had found the yellow one of service in some
+base undertaking, and _vice versa_.  At all events, it was evident that
+the "hatchet had been buried" between them, and their present relations
+were upon the most friendly footing.
+
+"Jake!" said I, coming to the point on which I desired to hear his
+opinion, "what about Arens Ringgold--shall I call him out?"
+
+"Golly, Massr George, he am out long 'go--I see um 'bout, dis two hour
+an' more--dat ar bossy doant sleep berry sound--he hant got de good
+conscience, I reck'n."
+
+"Oh! that is not what I mean, my man."
+
+"Wha--what massr mean?"
+
+"To call him out--challenge him to fight me."
+
+"Whaugh! massr, d'you mean to say a dewel ob sword an' pistol?"
+
+"Swords, pistols, or rifles--I care not which weapon he may choose."
+
+"Gorramity!  Massr George, don't talk ob such a thing.  O Lordy! no--you
+hab moder--you hab sister.  'Spose you get kill--who know--tha bullock
+he sometime kill tha butcha--den, Massr George, no one lef--who lef take
+care on ya moder?--who be guardium ob ya sister Vagin? who 'tect Viola--
+who 'tect all ob us from dese bad bad men?  Gorramity! massr, let um
+lone--doant call 'im out!"
+
+At that moment, I was myself called out.  The earnest appeal was
+interrupted by the braying of bugles and the rolling of drums,
+announcing the assembling of the council; and without waiting to reply
+to the disinterested remonstrance of my companion, I hastened to the
+scene of my duties.
+
+
+
+CHAPTER THIRTY SEVEN.
+
+THE FINAL ASSEMBLY.
+
+The spectacle of yesterday was repeated: the troops in serried lines of
+blue and steel--the officers in full uniform with shining epaulettes--in
+the centre the staff grouped around the general, close buttoned and of
+brilliant sheen; fronting these the half-circle of chiefs, backed by
+concentric lines of warriors, plumed, painted, and picturesque--horses
+standing near, some neighing under ready saddles, some picketed and
+quietly browsing--Indian women in their long _hunnas_, hurrying to and
+fro--boys and babes at play upon the grass--flags waring above the
+soldiers--banners and pennons floating over the heads of the red
+warriors--drums beating--bugles braying; such was the array.
+
+Again the spectacle was imposing, yet scarcely so much as that of the
+preceding day.  The eye at once detected a deficiency in the circle of
+the chiefs, and nearly half of the warriors were wanting.  The
+assemblage no longer impressed you with the idea of a multitude--it was
+only a respectable crowd, with room enough for all to gather close
+around the council.
+
+The absence of many chiefs was at once perceived.  King Onopa was not
+there.  The coronet of British brass--lacquered symbol of royalty,
+yesterday conspicuous in the centre--was no longer to be seen.  Holato
+Mico was missing, with other leaders of less note; and the thinness in
+the ranks of the common warriors showed that these chiefs had taken
+their followers along with them.  Most of the Indians on the ground
+appeared to be of the clans of Omatla, "Black Dirt," and Ohala.
+
+Notwithstanding the fewness of their following, I saw that
+Hoitle-mattee, Arpiucki, negro Abram, and the dwarf were present.
+Surely these stayed not to sign?
+
+I looked for Osceola.  It was not difficult to discover one so
+conspicuous, both in figure and feature.  He formed the last link in the
+now contracted curve of the chiefs.  He was lowest in rank, but this did
+not signify, as regarded his position.  Perhaps he had placed himself
+there from a feeling of modesty--a well-known characteristic of the man.
+He was in truth the very youngest of the chiefs, and by birthright
+entitled to a smaller command than any present; but, viewing him as he
+stood--even at the bottom of the rank--one could not help fancying that
+he was the head of all.
+
+As upon the preceding day, there was no appearance of bravado about him.
+His attitude, though stately and statuesque, was one of perfect ease.
+His arms were folded over his full chest--his weight resting on one
+limb, the other slightly retired--his features in repose, or now and
+then lit up by an expression rather of gentleness.  He seemed the
+impersonation of an Apollo--or, to speak less mythologically, a
+well-behaved gentleman waiting for some ceremony, of which he was to be
+a simple spectator.  As yet, nothing had transpired to excite him; no
+words had been uttered to rouse a spirit that only _seemed_ to slumber.
+
+Ere long, that attitude of repose would pass away--that soft smile would
+change to the harsh frown of passion.
+
+Gazing upon his face, one could hardly fancy such a transformation
+possible, and yet a close observer might.  It was like the placid sky
+that precedes the storm--the calm ocean that in a moment may be
+convulsed by the squall--the couchant lion that on the slightest
+provocation may be roused to ungovernable rage.
+
+During the moments that preceded the inauguration of the council, I kept
+my eyes upon the young chief.  Other eyes were regarding him as well; he
+was the cynosure of many, but mine was a gaze of peculiar interest.
+
+I looked for some token of recognition, but received none--neither nod
+nor glance.  Once or twice, his eye fell upon me, but passed on to some
+one else, as though I was but one among the crowd of his pale-faced
+adversaries.  He appeared not to remember me.  Was this really so? or
+was it, that his mind, preoccupied with great thoughts, hindered him
+from taking notice?
+
+I did not fail to cast my eyes abroad--over the plain--to the tents--
+towards the groups of loitering women.  I scanned their forms, one after
+another.
+
+I fancied I saw the mad queen in their midst--a centre of interest.  I
+had hopes that her _protegee_ might be near, but no.  None of the
+figures satisfied my eye: they were all too _squaw-like_--too short or
+too tall--too corpulent or too _maigre_.  She was not there.  Even under
+the loose _hunna_ I should have recognised her splendid form--_if still
+unchanged_.
+
+If--the hypothesis excites your surprise.  Why changed, you ask?
+Growth?--development?--maturity?  Rapid in this southern clime is the
+passage from maiden's form to that of matron.
+
+No; not that, not that.  Though still so young, the undulating outlines
+had already shown themselves.  When I last looked upon her, her stature
+had reached its limits; her form exhibited the bold curve of Hogarth, so
+characteristic of womanhood complete.  Not that did I fear.
+
+And what then?  The contrary?  Change from attenuation--from illness or
+grief?  Nor this.
+
+I cannot explain the suspicions that racked me--sprung from a stray
+speech.  That jay bird, that yestreen chattered so gaily, had poured
+poison into my heart.  But no; it could not be Maumee?  She was too
+innocent.  Ah! why do I rave?  There is no guilt in love.  If true--if
+she--hers was not crime; he alone was the guilty one.
+
+I have ill described the torture I experienced, consequent upon my
+unlucky "eaves-dropping."  During the whole of the preceding days it had
+been a source of real suffering.  I was in the predicament of one who
+had, heard too much, and to little.
+
+You will scarcely wonder that the words of Haj-Ewa cheered me; they
+drove the unworthy suspicion out of my mind, and inspired me with fresh
+hopes.  True, she had mentioned no name till I myself had pronounced it;
+but to whom could her speech refer?  "Poor bird of the forest--her heart
+will bleed and break."  She spoke of the "Rising Sun:" that was Osceola,
+who could the "haintclitz" be? who but Maumee?
+
+It might be but a tale of bygone days--a glimpse of the past deeply
+impressed upon the brain of the maniac, and still living in her memory.
+This was possible.  Haj-Ewa had known us in these days, had often met us
+in our wild wood rambles, had even been with us upon the island--for the
+mad queen could paddle her canoe with skill, could ride her wild steed,
+could go anywhere, went everywhere.
+
+It might only be a souvenir of these happy days that caused her to speak
+as she had done--in the chaos of her intellect, mistaking the past for
+the present.  Heaven forbid!
+
+The thought troubled me, but not long; for I did not long entertain it.
+I clung to the pleasanter belief.  Her words were sweet as honey, and
+formed a pleasing counterpoise to the fear I might otherwise have felt,
+on discovering the plot against my life.  With the knowledge that Maumee
+once loved--still loved me--I could brave dangers a hundred-fold greater
+than that.  It is but a weak heart that would not be gallant under the
+influence of love.  Encouraged by the smiles of a beautiful mistress,
+even cowards can be brave.  Arens Ringgold was standing by my side.
+Entrained in the crowd, our garments touched; we conversed together!
+
+He was even more polite to me than was his wont--more _friendly_!  His
+speech scarcely betrayed the habitual cynicism of his nature; though,
+whenever I looked him in the face, his eye quailed, and his glance
+sought the ground.
+
+For all that, he had no suspicion--not the slightest--that I knew I was
+side by side with the man who designed to murder me.
+
+
+
+CHAPTER THIRTY EIGHT.
+
+CASHIERING THE CHIEFS.
+
+To-day the commissioner showed a bolder front.  A bold part had he
+resolved to play, but he felt sure of success; and consequently there
+was an air of triumph in his looks.  He regarded the chiefs with the
+imperious glance of one determined to command them; confident they would
+yield obedience to his wishes.
+
+At intervals his eye rested upon Osceola with a look of peculiar
+significance, at once sinister and triumphant.  I was in the secret of
+that glance: I guessed its import; I knew that it boded no good to the
+young Seminole chief.  Could I have approached him at that moment, I
+should have held duty but lightly, and whimpered in his ear a word of
+warning.
+
+I was angry with myself that I had not thought of this before.  Haj-Ewa
+could have borne a message on the previous night; why did I not send it?
+My mind had been too full.  Occupied with my own thoughts, I had not
+thought of the danger that threatened my friend--for in this light I
+still regarded Powell.
+
+I had no exact knowledge of what was meant; though, from the
+conversation I had overheard, I more than half divined the
+commissioner's purpose.  Upon some plea, _Osceola was to be arrested_.
+
+A plea was needed; the outrage could not be perpetrated without one.
+Even the reckless agent might not venture upon such a stretch of power
+without plausible pretext; and how was this pretext to be obtained?
+
+The withdrawal of Onopa and the "hostiles," while Omatla with the
+"friendlies" remained, had given the agent the opportunity.  _Osceola
+himself was to furnish the plea_.
+
+Would that I could have whispered in his ear one word of caution!
+
+It was too late: the toils had been laid--the trap set; and the noble
+game was about to enter it.  It was too late for me to warn him.  I must
+stand idly by--spectator to an act of injustice--a gross violation of
+right.
+
+A table was placed in front of the ground occupied by the general and
+staff; the commissioner stood immediately behind it.  Upon this table
+was an inkstand with pens; while a broad parchment, exhibiting the
+creases of many folds, was spread out till it occupied nearly the whole
+surface.  This parchment was the treaty of the Oclawaha.
+
+"Yesterday," began the commissioner, without further preamble, "we did
+nothing but talk--to-day we are met to act.  This," said he, pointing to
+the parchment, "is the treaty of Payne's Landing.  I hope you have all
+considered what I said yesterday, and are ready to sign it?"
+
+"We have considered," replied Omatla for himself and those of his party.
+"We are ready to sign."
+
+"Onopa is head chief," suggested the commissioner; "let him sign first.
+Where is Miconopa?" he added, looking around the circle with feigned
+surprise.
+
+"The mico-mico is not here."
+
+"And why not here?  He should have been here.  Why is he absent?"
+
+"He is sick--he is not able to attend the council."
+
+"That is a _lie_, Jumper.  Miconopa is shamming--you know he is."
+
+The dark brow of Hoitle-mattee grew darker at the insult, while his body
+quivered with rage.  A grunt of disdain was all the reply he made, and
+folding his arms, he drew back into his former attitude.
+
+"Abram! you are Miconopa's private counsellor--you know his intentions.
+Why has he absented himself?"
+
+"O Massr Ginral!" replied the black in broken English, and speaking
+without much show of respect for his interrogator, "how shed ole Abe
+know the 'tention of King Nopy?  The mico no tell me ebberting--he go he
+please--he come he please--he great chief; he no tell nobody his
+'tention."
+
+"Does he intend to sign?  Say yes or no."
+
+"No, den!" responded the interpreter, in a firm voice, as if forced to
+the answer.  "That much ob his mind Abe _do_ know.  He no 'tend to sign
+that ar dockament.  He say no, no."
+
+"Enough!" cried the commissioner in a loud voice--"enough!  Now hear me,
+chiefs and warriors of the Seminole nation!  I appear before you armed
+with a power from your Great Father the President--he who is chief of us
+all.  That power enables me to punish for disloyalty and disobedience;
+and I now exercise that right upon Miconopa.  _He is no longer king of
+the Seminoles_!"
+
+This unexpected announcement produced an effect upon the audience
+similar to that of an electric shock.  It started the chiefs and
+warriors into new attitudes, and all stood looking eagerly at the
+speaker.  But the expression upon their faces was not of like import--it
+varied much.  Some showed signs of anger as well as surprise.  A few
+appeared pleased, while the majority evidently received the announcement
+with incredulity.
+
+Surely the commissioner was jesting?  How could _he_ make or unmake a
+king of the Seminoles?  How could the Great Father himself do this?  The
+Seminoles were a free nation; they were not even tributary to the
+whites--under no political connection whatever.  They themselves could
+alone elect their king--they only could depose him.  Surely the
+commissioner was jesting?
+
+Not at all.  In another moment, they perceived he was in earnest.
+Foolish as was the project of deposing King Onopa, he entertained it
+seriously.  He had resolved to carry it into execution; and as far as
+decrees went, he did so without further delay.
+
+"Omatla! you have been faithful to your word and your honour; you are
+worthy to head a brave nation.  From this time forth, _you_ are King of
+the Seminoles.  Our Great Father, and the people of the United States,
+hail you as such; they will acknowledge no other.  Now--let the signing
+proceed."
+
+At a gesture from the commissioner, Omatla stepped forward to the table,
+and taking the pen in his hand, wrote his name upon the parchment.
+
+The act was done in perfect silence.  But one voice broke the deep
+stillness--one word only was heard uttered with angry aspirate; it was
+the word "traitor."
+
+I looked round to discover who had pronounced it; the hiss was still
+quivering upon the lips of Osceola; while his eye was fixed on Omatla
+with a glance of ineffable scorn.
+
+"Black Crazy Clay" next took the pen, and affixed his signature, which
+was done by simply making his "mark."
+
+After him follower Ohala, Itolasse Omatla, and about a dozen--all of
+whom were known as the chiefs that favoured the scheme of removal.
+
+The hostile chiefs--whether by accident or design I know not--stood
+together, forming the left wing of the semi-circle.  It was now their
+turn to declare themselves.
+
+Hoitle-mattee was the first about whose signing the commissioner
+entertained any doubt.  There was a pause, significant of apprehension.
+
+"It is your turn, Jumper," said the latter at length, addressing the
+chief by his English name.
+
+"You may _jump_ me, then," replied the eloquent and witty chief, making
+a jest of what he meant for earnest as well.
+
+"How? you refuse to sign?"
+
+"Hoitle-mattee does not write."
+
+"It is not necessary; your name is already written; you have only to
+place your finger upon it."
+
+"I might put my finger on the wrong place."
+
+"You can sign by making a cross," continued the agent, still in hopes
+that the chief would consent.
+
+"We Seminoles have but little liking for the cross; we had enough of it
+in the days of the Spaniards.  _Hulwak_!"
+
+"Then you positively refuse to sign?"
+
+"Ho!  Mister Commissioner does it surprise you?"
+
+"Be it so, then.  Now hear what I have to say to you."
+
+"Hoitle-mattee's ears are as open as the commissioner's mouth," was the
+sneering rejoinder.
+
+"I depose Hoitle-mattee from the chieftainship of his clan.  The Great
+Father will no longer recognise him as chief of the Seminoles."
+
+"Ha, ha, ha!" came the scornful laugh in reply.  "Indeed--indeed!  And
+tell me," he asked, still continuing to laugh, and treating with
+derision the solemn enunciation of the commissioner, "of whom am I to be
+chief, General Thompson."
+
+"I have pronounced," said the agent, evidently confused and nettled by
+the ironical manner of the Indian; "you are no more a chief--we will not
+acknowledge you as one."
+
+"But my people?--what of them?" asked the other in a fine tone of irony;
+"have they nothing to say in this matter?"
+
+"Your people will act with reason.  They will listen to their Great
+Father's advice.  They will no longer obey a leader who has acted
+without faith."
+
+"You say truly, agent," replied the chief, now speaking seriously.  "My
+people will act with reason, but they will also act with patriotism and
+fidelity.  Do not flatter yourself on the potency of our Great Father's
+advice.  If it be given as a father's counsel, they will listen to it;
+if not, they will shut their ears against it.  As to your disposal of
+myself, I only laugh at the absurdity of the act.  I treat both act and
+agent with scorn.  I have no dread of your power.  I have no fear of the
+loyalty of my people.  Sow dissension among them as you please; you have
+been successful elsewhere in making traitors,"--here the speaker glared
+towards Omatla and his warriors--"but I disregard your machinations.
+There is not a man in my tribe that will turn his back upon
+Hoitle-mattee--not one."
+
+The orator ceased speaking, and, folding his arms, fell back into an
+attitude of silent defiance.  He saw that the commissioner had done with
+him, for the latter was now appealing to Abram for his signature.
+
+The black's first answer was a decided negative--simply "No."  When
+urged to repeat his refusal, he added:
+
+"No--by Jovah!  I nebber sign the damned paper--nebber.  Dat's enuf--
+aint it, Bossy Thompson?"
+
+Of course, this put an end to the appeal, and Abram was "scratched" from
+the list of chiefs.
+
+Arpiucki followed next, and "Cloud" and the "Alligator," and then the
+dwarf Poshalla.  All these refused their signatures, and were in turn
+formally deposed from their dignities.  So, likewise, were Holata Mico
+and others who were absent.
+
+Most of the chiefs only laughed as they listened to the wholesale
+cashiering.  It was ludicrous enough to hear this puny office holder of
+an hour pronounce edicts with all the easy freedom of an emperor!  [Note
+1.]
+
+Poshala, the last who had been disgraced, laughed like the others; but
+the dwarf had a bitter tongue, and could not refrain from a rejoinder.
+
+"Tell the fat agent," cried he to the interpreter--"tell him that I
+shall be chief of the Seminoles when the rank weeds are growing over his
+great carcass--ha, ha!"
+
+The rough speech was not carried to the ears of the commissioner.  He
+did not even hear the scornful cachinnation that followed it, for his
+attention was now entirely occupied with one individual--the youngest of
+the chiefs--the last in the line--Osceola.
+
+------------------------------------------------------------------------
+
+Note 1.  The United States government afterwards disapproved of this
+absurd dethronement of the chiefs; but there is no doubt that Thompson
+acted under secret instructions from the President.
+
+
+
+CHAPTER THIRTY NINE.
+
+THE SIGNATURE OF OSCEOLA.
+
+Up to this moment the young chief had scarcely spoken; only when Charles
+Omatla took hold of the pen he had hissed out the word traitor.
+
+He had not remained all the time in the same attitude, neither had his
+countenance shown him indifferent to what was passing.  There was no
+constraint either in his gestures or looks--no air of affected
+stoicism--for this was not his character.  He had laughed at the wit of
+Jumper, and applauded the patriotism of Abram and the others, as
+heartily as he had frowned disapproval of the conduct of the traitors.
+
+It was now his turn to declare himself, and he stood, with modest mien,
+in the expectation of being asked.  All the others had been appealed to
+by name--for the names of all were well-known to the agent and his
+interpreters.
+
+I need hardly state that at this crisis silence was on tiptoe.
+Throughout the ranks of the soldiery--throughout the crowd of warriors--
+everywhere--there was a moment of breathless expectancy, as if every
+individual upon the ground was imbued with the presentiment of a scene.
+
+For my part I felt satisfied that an explosion was about to take place;
+and, like the rest, I stood spell-bound with expectation.
+
+The commissioner broke the silence with the words:
+
+"At last we have come to you, _Powell_.  Before proceeding further, let
+me ask--Are you acknowledged as a _chief_?"
+
+There was insult in the tone, the manner, the words.  It was direct and
+intended, as the countenance of the speaker clearly showed.  There was
+malice in his eye--malice mingled with the confidence of prospective
+triumph.
+
+The interrogation was irrelevant, superfluous.  Thompson knew well that
+Powell was a chief--a sub-chief, it is true, but still a chief--a
+war-chief of the Redsticks, the most warlike tribe of the nation.  The
+question was put for mere provocation.  The agent tempted an outburst of
+that temper that all knew to be none of the gentlest.
+
+Strange to say, the insult failed in its effect, or it seemed so.  They
+who expected an angry answer were doomed to disappointment.  Osceola
+made no reply.  Only a peculiar smile was observed upon his features.
+It was not of anger, nor yet of scorn: it was rather a smile of silent,
+lordly contempt--the look which a gentleman would bestow upon a
+blackguard who is abusing him.  Those who witnessed it were left under
+the impression that the young chief regarded his insulter as beneath the
+dignity of a reply, and the insult too gross, as it really was, to be
+answered.  Such impression had I, in common with others around me.
+
+Osceola's look, might have silenced the commissioner, or, at least, have
+caused him to have changed his tactics, had he been at all sensitive to
+derision.  But no--the vulgar soul of the plebeian official was closed
+against shame, as against justice; and without regarding the repulse, he
+pressed on with his plan.
+
+"I ask, are you a chief?" continued he, repeating the interrogatory in a
+still more insulting tone.  "Have you the right to sign?"
+
+This time his questions were answered, and by a dozen voices at once.
+Chieftains in the ring, and warriors who stood behind it; shouted in
+reply:
+
+"The Rising Sun?--a chief!  He _is_ a chief.  He has the right to sign."
+
+"Why call his right in question?" inquired Jumper, with a sneering
+laugh.  "Time enough when he wishes to exercise it.  He is not likely to
+do that now."
+
+"But I am," said Osceola, addressing himself to the orator, and speaking
+with marked emphasis.  "I have the right to sign--_I shall sign_."
+
+It is difficult to describe the effect produced by this unexpected
+avowal.  The entire audience--white men as well as red men--was taken by
+surprise; and for some moments there was a vibratory movement throughout
+the assembly, accompanied by a confused murmur of voices.  Exclamations
+were heard on all sides--cries of varied import, according to the
+political bias of those who uttered them.  All, however, betokened
+astonishment; with some, in tones of joy; with others, in the accents of
+chagrin or anger.  Was it Osceola who had spoken?  Had they heard
+aright?  Was the "Rising Sun" so soon to sink behind the clouds?  After
+all that had transpired--after all he had promised--was _he_ going to
+turn traitor?
+
+Such questions passed rapidly among the hostile chiefs and warriors;
+while those of the opposite party could scarcely conceal their delight.
+All knew that the signing of Osceola would end the affair; and the
+removal become a matter of coarse.  The Omatlas would have nothing more
+to fear; the hostile warriors, who had sworn it might still resist; but
+there was no leader among them who could bind the patriots together as
+Osceola had done.  With this defection the spirit of resistance would
+become a feeble thing; the patriots might despair.
+
+Jumper, Cloud, Coa Hajo, and Abram, Arpiucki and the dwarf, seemed all
+equally stricken with astonishment.  Osceola--he on whom they had
+reposed their fullest confidence--the bold designer of the opposition--
+the open foe to all who had hitherto advocated the removal--he, the pure
+patriot in whom all had believed--whom all had trusted, was now going to
+desert them--now, in the eleventh hour, when his defection would be
+fatal to their cause.
+
+"He has been bribed," said they.  "His patriotism has been all a sham:
+his resistance a cheat.  He has been bought by the agent!  He has been
+acting for him all along.  _Holy-waugus!  Iste-hulwa-stchay_.  [bad
+man--villain].  'Tis a treason blacker than Omatla's!"
+
+Thus muttered the chiefs to one another, at the same time eyeing Osceola
+with the fierce look of tigers.
+
+With regard to Powell's defection, I did not myself know what to make of
+it.  He had declared his resolution to sign the treaty; what more was
+needed?  That he was ready to do so was evident from his attitude; he
+seemed only to wait for the agent to invite him.
+
+As to the commissioner being a party to this intention, I knew he was
+nothing of the kind.  Any one who looked in his face, at that moment,
+would have acquitted him of all privity to the act.  He was evidently as
+much astonished by Osceola's declaration as any one upon the ground, or
+even more so; in fact, he seemed bewildered by the unexpected avowal; so
+much so, that it was some time before he could make rejoinder.
+
+He at length stammered out:
+
+"Very well, Osceola!  Step forward here, and sign then."
+
+Thompson's tone was changed; he spoke soothingly.  A new prospect was
+before him.  Osceola would sign, and thus agree to the removal.  The
+business upon which the supreme government had deputed him would thus be
+accomplished, and with a dexterity that would redound to his own credit.
+"Old Hickory" would be satisfied; and then what next? what next?  Not a
+mission to a mere tribe of savages, but an embassy to some high court of
+civilisation.  He might yet be ambassador? perhaps to Spain?
+
+Ah!  Wiley Thompson! thy castles in the air (_chateaux en Espagne_) were
+soon dissipated.  They fell as suddenly as they had been built; they
+broke down like a house of cards.
+
+Osceola stepped forward to the table, and bent over it, as if to scan
+the words of the document.  His eyes ran rapidly across the parchment;
+he seemed to be searching for some particular place.
+
+He found it--it was a name--he read it aloud: "Charles Omatla."
+
+Raising himself erect, he faced the commissioner; and, in a tone of
+irony, asked the latter if he still desired him to sign.
+
+"You have promised, Osceola."
+
+"Then will I keep my promise."
+
+As he spoke the words, he drew his long Spanish knife from its sheath,
+and raising it aloft, struck the blade through the parchment till its
+point was deep buried in the wood.
+
+"That is my signature!" cried he, as he drew forth the steel.  "See,
+Omatla! it is through _your_ name.  Beware, traitor!  Undo what you have
+done, or its blade may yet pass through your heart!"
+
+"Oh! that is what he meant," cried the commissioner, rising in rage.
+"Good.  I was prepared for this insolence--this outrage.  General
+Clinch!--I appeal to you--your soldiers--seize upon him--arrest him!"
+
+These broken speeches I heard amidst the confusion of voices.  I heard
+Clinch issue some hurried orders to an officer who stood near.  I saw
+half a dozen files separate from the ranks, and rush forward; I saw them
+cluster around Osceola--who the next moment was in their grasp.
+
+Not till several of the blue-coated soldiers were sent sprawling over
+the ground; not till guns had been thrown aside, and a dozen strong men
+had fixed their gripe upon him, did the young chief give over his
+desperate struggles to escape; and then apparently yielding, he stood
+rigid and immobile, as if his frame had been iron.
+
+It was an unexpected _denouement_--alike unlooked for by either white
+men or Indians.  It was a violent proceeding, and altogether
+unjustifiable.  This was no court whose judge had the right to arrest
+for contempt.  It was a council, and even the insolence of an individual
+could not be punished without the concurrence of both parties.  General
+Thompson had exceeded his duty--he had exercised a power arbitrary as
+illegal.
+
+The scene that followed was so confused as to defy description.  The air
+was rent with loud ejaculations; the shouts of men, the screams of the
+women, the cries of children, the yells of the Indian warriors, fell
+simultaneously upon the ear.  There was no attempt at rescue--that would
+have been impossible in the presence of so many troops--so many
+traitors; but the patriot chiefs, as they hurried away from the ground,
+gave out their wild `Yo-ho-ehee'--the gathering war-word of the Seminole
+nation--that in every utterance promised retaliation and revenge.
+
+The soldiers commenced dragging Osceola inside the fort.
+
+"Tyrant!" cried he, fixing his eye upon the commissioner, "you have
+triumphed by treachery; but fancy not that this is the end of it.  You
+may imprison Osceola--hang him, if you will--but think not that his
+spirit will die.  No; it will live, and cry aloud for vengeance.  It
+speaks!  Hear ye yonder sounds?  Know ye the `war-cry' of the Redsticks?
+Mark it well; for it is not the last time it will ring in your ears.
+_Ho--yo-ho-ehee! yo-ho-ehee_!  Listen to it, tyrant! it is your
+death-knell--it is your death-knell!"
+
+While giving utterance to these wild threats, the young chief was drawn
+through the gate, and hurried off to the guard-house within the
+stockade.
+
+As I followed amid the crowd, some one touched me on the arm, as if to
+draw my attention.  Turning, I beheld Haj-Ewa.
+
+"To-night, by the we-wa," [spring, pond, water] said she, speaking so as
+not to be heard by those around.  "There will be shadows--more shadows
+upon the water.  Perhaps--"
+
+I did not hear more; the crowd pressed us apart; and when I looked
+again, the mad queen had moved away from the spot.
+
+
+
+CHAPTER FORTY.
+
+"FIGHTING GALLAGHER."
+
+The prisoner was confined in a strong, windowless blockhouse.  Access to
+him would be easy enough, especially to those who wore epaulets.  It was
+my design to visit him; but, for certain reasons, I forbore putting it
+in execution, so long as daylight lasted.  I was desirous that my
+interview should be as private as possible and therefore waited for the
+night.
+
+I was influenced by other reasons; my hands were full of business; I had
+not yet done with Arens Ringgold.
+
+I had a difficulty in deciding how to act.  My mind was a chaos of
+emotions; hatred for the conspirators--indignation at the unjust
+behaviour of the agent towards Osceola--love for Maumee--now fond and
+trusting--anon doubting and jealous.  Amid such confusion, how could I
+think with clearness?
+
+Withal, one of these emotions had precedence--anger against the villain
+who intended to take my life was at that moment the strongest passion in
+my breast.
+
+Hostility so heartless, so causeless, so deadly, had not failed to imbue
+me with a keen desire for vengeance; and I resolved to punish my enemy
+at all hazards.
+
+He only, whose life has been aimed at by an assassin, can understand the
+deadly antipathy I felt towards Arens Ringgold.  An open enemy, who acts
+under the impulse of anger, jealousy, or fancied wrong, you may respect.
+Even the two white wretches, and the yellow runaway, I regarded only
+with contempt, as tools pliant for any purpose; but the arch-conspirator
+himself I now both hated and despised.  So acute was my sense of injury,
+that I could not permit it to pass without some act of retaliation, some
+effort to punish my wronger.
+
+But how?  Therein lay the uncertainty!  How?  A duel?
+
+I could think of no other way.  The criminal was still inside the law.
+I could not reach him, otherwise than by my own arm.
+
+I well weighed the words of my sable counsellor; but the faithful fellow
+had spoken in vain, and I resolved to act contrary to his advice, let
+the hazard fall as it might.  I made up my mind to the challenge.
+
+One consideration still caused me to hesitate: _I must give Ringgold my
+reasons_.
+
+He should have been welcome to them as a dying souvenir; but if I
+succeeded in only _half-killing_ him, or he in half-killing me, how
+about the future?  I should be showing my hand to him, by which he would
+profit; whereas, unknown to him, I now knew his, and might easily foil
+his designs.
+
+Such calculations ran rapidly through my mind, though I considered them
+with a coolness that in after-thought surprises me.  The incidents that
+I had lately encountered--combined with angry hatred of this plausible
+villain--had made me fierce, cold and cruel.  I was no longer myself;
+and, wicked as it may appear, I could not control my longings for
+vengeance.
+
+I needed a friend to advise me.  Who could I make the confidant of my
+terrible secret?
+
+Surely my ears were not deceiving me?  No; it was the voice of my old
+school-fellow, Charley Gallagher.  I heard it outside, and recognised
+the ring of his merry laugh.  A detachment of rifles had just entered
+the fort with Charley at their head.  In another instant we had
+"embraced."
+
+What could have been more opportune?  Charley had been my "chum" at
+college--my bosom companion.  He deserved my confidence, and almost upon
+the instant, I made known to him the situation of affairs.
+
+It required much explanation to remove his incredulity; he was disposed
+to treat the whole thing as a joke--that is, the conspiracy against my
+life.  But the rifle shot was real, and Black Jake was by to confirm my
+account of it: so that my friend was at length induced to take a serious
+view of the matter.
+
+"Bad luck to me!" said he, in Irish accent: "it's the quarest case that
+ever came accrast your humble frind's experience.  Mother o' Moses! the
+fellow must be the divil incarnate.  Geordie, my boy, have ye looked
+under his instip?"
+
+Despite the name and "brogue," Charley was not a Hibernian--only the son
+of one.  He was a New-Yorker by birth, and could speak good English when
+he pleased; but from some freak of eccentricity or affectation, he had
+taken to the brogue, and used it habitually, when among friends, with
+all the rich garniture of a true Milesian, fresh from the "sod."
+
+He was altogether an odd fellow, but with a soul of honour, and a heart
+true as steel.  He was no dunce either, and the man above all others
+upon whose coat tail it would not have been safe to "trid."  He was
+already notorious for having been engaged in two or three "affairs," in
+which he had played both principal and second, and had earned the
+bellicose appellation of "Fighting Gallagher."  I knew what _his_ advice
+would be before asking it--"Call the schoundrel out by all manes."
+
+I stated the difficulty as to my reasons for challenging Ringgold.
+
+"Thrue, _ma bohill_!  You're right there; but there need be no throuble
+about the matther."
+
+"How?"
+
+"Make the spalpeen challenge you.  That's betther--besides, it gives you
+the choice of waypons."
+
+"In what way can I do this?"
+
+"Och! my innocent gossoon!  Shure that's as asy as tumblin' from a
+haycock.  Call him a liar; an' if that's not sufficiently disagraable,
+twake his nose, or squirt your tobacco in his ugly countenance.  That'll
+fetch him out, I'll be bail for ye.
+
+"Come along, my boy!" continued my ready counsellor, moving towards the
+door.  "Where is this Mister Ringgowld to be sarched for?  Find me the
+gint, and I'll shew you how to scratch his buttons.  Come along wid ye!"
+
+Not much liking the plan of procedure, but without the moral strength to
+resist, I followed this impetuous son of a Celt through the doorway.
+
+
+
+CHAPTER FORTY ONE.
+
+PROVOKING A DUEL.
+
+We were scarcely outside before we saw him for whom we were searching.
+He was standing at a short distance from the porch, conversing with a
+group of officers, among whom was the dandy already alluded to, and who
+passed under the appropriate appellation of "Beau Scott."  The latter
+was aide-de-camp to the commander-in-chief, of whom he was also a
+relative.
+
+I pointed Ringgold out to my companion.
+
+"He in the civilian dress," I said.
+
+"Och! man, ye needn't be so purticular in your idintification.  That
+sarpint-look spakes for itself.  Be my sowl! it's an unwholesome look
+altogither.  That fellow needn't fear wather--the say'll niver drown
+_him_.  Now, look here, Geordy, boy," continued Gallagher, facing
+towards me and speaking in a more earnest tone: "Follow my advice to the
+letther!  First trid upon his toes, an' see how he takes it.  The
+fellow's got corns; don't ye see, he wears a tight boot?  Give him a
+good scrouge; make him sing out.  Ov course, he'll ask you to
+apologise--he must--you won't.  Shurely that'll do the bizness without
+farther ceremony?  If it don't, then, by Jabus! hit him a kick in the
+latter end."
+
+"No, Gallagher," said I, disliking the programme, "it will never do."
+
+"Bad luck to it, an' why not?  You're not going to back out, are ye?
+Think man! a villain who would murdher you! an' maybe will some day, if
+you let him escape."
+
+"True--but--"
+
+"Bah! no buts.  Move up, an' let's see what they're talking about,
+anyhow.  I'll find ye a chance, or my name's not Gallagher."
+
+Undetermined how to act, I walked after my companion, and joined the
+group of officers.
+
+Of course, I had no thoughts of following Gallagher's advice.  I was in
+hopes that some turn in the conversation might give me the opportunity I
+desired, without proceeding to such rude extremes.
+
+My hopes did not deceive me.  Arens Ringgold seemed to tempt his fate,
+for I had scarcely entered among the crowd, before I found cause
+sufficient for my purpose.
+
+"Talking of Indian beauties," said he, "no one has been so successful
+among them as Scott here.  He has been playing Don Giovanni ever since
+he came to the fort."
+
+"Oh," exclaimed one of the newly arrived officers, "that does not
+surprise us.  He has been a lady-killer ever since I knew him.  The man
+who is irresistible among the belles of Saratoga, will surely find
+little difficulty in carrying the heart of an Indian maiden."
+
+"Don't be so confident about that, Captain Roberts.  Sometimes these
+forest damsels are very shy of us pale-faced lovers.  Lieutenant Scott's
+present sweetheart cost him a long siege before he could conquer her.
+Is it not so, lieutenant?"
+
+"Nonsense," replied the dandy with a conceited smirk.
+
+"But she yielded at last?" said Roberts, turning interrogatively towards
+Scott.
+
+The dandy made no reply, but his simpering smile was evidently intended
+to be taken in the affirmative.
+
+"Oh yes," rejoined Ringgold, "she yielded at last: and is now the
+`favourite,' it is said."
+
+"Her name--her name?"
+
+"Powell--Miss Powell."
+
+"What!  That name is not Indian?"
+
+"No, gentlemen; the lady is no savage, I assure you; she can play and
+sing, and read and write too--such pretty _billets-doux_.  Is it not so,
+lieutenant?"
+
+Before the latter could make reply, another spoke:
+
+"Is not that the name of the young chief who has just been arrested?"
+
+"True," answered Ringgold; "it is the fellow's name.  I had forgotten to
+say that she is his sister."
+
+"What! the sister of Osceola?"
+
+"Neither more nor less--half-blood like him too.  Among the whites they
+are known by the name of Powell, since that was the cognomen of the
+worthy old gentleman who begot them.  Osceola, which signifies `the
+Rising Sun,' is the name by which he is known among the Seminoles; and
+_her_ native appellation--ah, that is a very pretty name indeed."
+
+"What is it?  Let us hear it; let us judge for ourselves."
+
+"Maumee."
+
+"Very pretty indeed!"
+
+"Beautiful!  If the damsel be only as sweet as her name, then Scott is a
+fortunate fellow."
+
+"Oh, she is a very wonder of beauty; eyes liquid and full of fiery
+love--long lashes: lips luscious as honeycombs; figure tall; bust full
+and firm; limbs like those of the Cyprian goddess; feet like
+Cinderella's--in short, perfection."
+
+"Wonderful.  Why, Scott, you are the luckiest mortal alive.  But say,
+Ringgold! are you speaking in seriousness.  Has he really conquered this
+Indian divinity?  Honour bright--_has he succeeded_?  You understand
+what I mean?"
+
+"_Most certainly_," was the prompt reply.
+
+Up to this moment I had not interfered.  The first words of the
+conversation had bound me like a spell, and I stood as if glued to the
+ground.  My brain was giddy, and my heart felt as if the blood passing
+through it was molten lead.  The bold enunciations had so staggered me,
+that it was some time before I could draw my breath; and more than one
+of the bystanders noticed the effect which the dialogue was producing on
+me.
+
+After a little, I grew calmer, or rather more resolute.  The very
+despair that had passed into my bosom had the effect of steeling my
+nerves; and just as Ringgold uttered the flippant affirmative, I was
+ready for him.
+
+"Liar!"  I exclaimed; and before the red could mount into his cheek, I
+gave it a slap with the back of my hand, that no doubt helped to
+heighten the colour.
+
+"Nately done!" cried Gallagher; "there can be no mistake about the
+maynin of that."
+
+Nor was there.  My antagonist accepted the act for what it was meant--a
+deadly insult.  In such company, he could not do otherwise; and,
+muttering some indistinct threats, he walked away from the ground,
+attended by his especial friend, the lady-killer, and two or three
+others.
+
+The incident, instead of gathering a crowd, had the contrary effect; it
+scattered the little group who had witnessed it; the officers retiring
+in-doors to discuss the motives, and speculate as as to when and where
+"the affair would come off."
+
+Gallagher and I also left the ground; and, closeted in my quarters,
+commenced preparing for the event.
+
+
+
+CHAPTER FORTY TWO.
+
+THE CHALLENGE.
+
+At the time of which I write duelling was not uncommon in the United
+States army.  In _war-time_, it is not uncommon yet, as I can testify
+from late experience.  It is contrary to the regulations of the American
+service--as I believe it is of every other in the civilised world.
+Notwithstanding, an infringement of the _code militaire_ in this regard,
+is usually looked upon with leniency--more often "winked at" than
+punished.  This much I can affirm--that any officer in the American army
+who has received the "lie direct," will find more honour in the breach
+of this military rule than in its observance.
+
+After all that has been said and written about duelling, the outcry
+against it is a sad sham, at least in the United States of America--
+nothing less than a piece of superb hypocrisy.  Universal as has been
+this condemnation, I should not like to take shelter under it.  I well
+know that it would not protect me from being called by that ugly
+appellation, "poltroon."  I have noticed over and over again, that the
+newspapers loudest in their declamations against duelling, are the first
+to fling "coward" in the teeth of him who refuses to fight.
+
+It is even so.  In America, moral courage, though much be-praised, does
+not find ready credence.  A refusal to meet the man who may challenge
+you is not thus explained.  It is called "backing out," "shewing the
+white feather;" and he who does this, need look no more upon his
+ladye-love; she would "flog him with her garters."
+
+More than once have I heard this threat, spoken by pretty lips, and in
+the centre of a brilliant circle.  His moral courage must be great who
+would provoke such chastisement.  With such a sentiment over the land,
+then, I had nailed Arens Ringgold for a meeting; and I joyed to think I
+had done so without compromising my secret.
+
+But ah! it was a painful provocation he had given me; and if he had been
+the greatest coward in the world, he could not have been more wretched
+than I, as I returned to my quarters.
+
+My jovial companion could no longer cheer me, though it was not fear for
+the coming fight that clouded my spirits.  Far from it--far otherwise.
+I scarcely thought of that.  My thoughts were of Maumee--of what I had
+just heard.  She was false--false--betraying, herself betrayed--lost--
+lost forever!
+
+In truth was I wretched.  One thing alone could have rendered me more
+so--an obstacle to the anticipated meeting--anything to hinder my
+revenge.  On the duel now rested my hopes.  It might enable me to
+disembarrass my heart of the hot blood that was burning it.  Not all--
+unless he too stood before me--he, the seducer who had made this misery.
+Would I could find pretext for challenging him.  I should do so yet.
+Why had I not?  Why did I not strike him for that smile?  I could have
+fought them both at the same time, one after the other.
+
+Thus I raved, with Gallagher by my side.  My friend knew not all my
+secret.  He asked what I had got "aginst the aide-de-cong."
+
+"Say the word, Geordie, boy, an' we'll make a four-handed game ov it.
+Be Saint Pathrick!  I'd like mightily to take the shine out of that
+purty paycock!"
+
+"No, Gallagher, no.  It's not your affair; you could not give _me_
+satisfaction for that.  Let us wait till we know more.  I cannot believe
+it--I cannot believe it."
+
+"Believe what?"
+
+"Not now, my friend.  When it is over I shall explain."
+
+"All right, my boy!  Charley Gallagher's not the man to disturb your
+saycrets.  Now let's look to the bull-dogs, an' make shure they're in
+barking condition.  I hope the scamps won't blab at head-quarters, an'
+disappoint us after all."
+
+It was my only fear.  I knew that arrest was possible--probable--
+certain, if my adversary wished it.  Arrest would put an end to the
+affair; and I should be left in a worse position than ever.  Ringgold's
+father was gone--I had ascertained this favourable circumstance; but no
+matter.  The commander-in-chief was the friend of the family--a word in
+his ear would be sufficient.  I feared that the aide-de-camp Scott,
+instructed by Arens, might whisper that word.
+
+"After all, he daren't," said Gallagher; "you driv the nail home, an'
+clinched it.  He daren't do the dhirty thing--not a bit of it; it might
+get wind, an' thin he'd have the kettle to his tail; besides, _ma
+bohill_, he wants to kill you anyhow; so he ought to be glad of the fine
+handy chance you've given him.  He's not a bad shot, they say.  Never
+fear, Geordie, boy! he won't back out this time; he must fight--he will
+fight.  Ha!  I told you so.  See, yonder comes Apollo Belvidare!  Holy
+Moses! how Phoebus shines!"
+
+A knock--"Come in,"--the door was opened, and the aide-de-camp appeared
+in full uniform.
+
+"To arrest me," thought I, and my heart fell.
+
+But no; the freshly written note spoke a different purpose, and I was
+relieved.  It was the challenge.
+
+"Lieutenant Randolph, I believe," said the gentleman, advancing towards
+me.
+
+I pointed to Gallagher, but made no reply.
+
+"I am to understand that Captain Gallagher is your friend."
+
+I nodded assent.
+
+The two faced each other, and the next instant were _en rapport_;
+talking the matter over as cool as cucumbers and sweet as sugar-plums.
+
+From observation, I hazard this remark--that the politeness exhibited
+between the seconds in a duel cannot be surpassed by that of the most
+accomplished courtiers in the world.
+
+The time occupied in the business was brief.  Gallagher well knew the
+routine, and I saw that the other was not entirely unacquainted with it.
+In five minutes, everything was arranged--place, weapons, and distance.
+
+I nodded; Gallagher made a sweeping salaam; the aide-de-camp bowed
+stiffly and withdrew.
+
+------------------------------------------------------------------------
+
+I shall not trouble you with my reflections previous to the duel, nor
+yet with many details of the affair itself.  Accounts of these deadly
+encounters are common enough in books, and their sameness will serve as
+my excuse for not describing one.
+
+Ours differed only from the ordinary kind in the weapon used.  We fought
+with _rifles_, instead of swords or pistols.  It was my choice--as the
+challenged party, I had the right--but it was equally agreeable to my
+adversary, who was as well skilled in the use of the rifle as I.  I
+chose this weapon because it was the _deadliest_.
+
+The time arranged was an hour before sunset.  I had urged this early
+meeting in fear of interruption; the place, a spot of level ground near
+the edge of the little pond where I had met Haj-Ewa; the distance, ten
+paces.
+
+We met--took our places, back to back--waited for the ominous signal,
+"one, two, three,"--received it--faced rapidly round--and fired at each
+other.
+
+I heard the "hist" of the leaden pellet as it passed my ear, but felt no
+stroke.
+
+The smoke puffed upward.  I saw my antagonist upon the ground: he was
+not dead; he was writhing and groaning.
+
+The seconds, and several spectators who were present, ran up to him, but
+I kept my ground.
+
+"Well, Gallagher?"  I asked, as my friend came back to me.
+
+"Winged, by japers!  You've spoilt the use ov his dexter arm--bone broke
+above the ilbow-joint."
+
+"That all?"
+
+"Arrah, sowl! aren't it enough?  Hear how the hound whimpers!"
+
+I felt as the tiger is said to feel after tasting blood, though I cannot
+now account for my ferocity.  The man had sought my life--I thirsted for
+his.  This combined with the other thought had nigh driven me mad.
+
+I was not satisfied, and would make no apology; but my antagonist had
+had enough; he was eager to be taken from the ground on any terms, and
+thus the affair ended.
+
+It was my first duel, but not my last.
+
+
+
+CHAPTER FORTY THREE.
+
+THE ASSIGNATION.
+
+Our opponents passed silently away--the spectators along with them--
+leaving my second and myself upon the ground.
+
+It was my intention to stay by the pond.  I remembered the invitation of
+Haj-Ewa.  By remaining, I should avoid the double journey.  Better to
+await her coming.
+
+A glance to the western horizon shewed me that the sun had already sunk
+below the tree-tops.  The twilight would be short.  The young moon was
+already in the heavens.  It might be only a few minutes before Haj-Ewa
+should come.  I resolved to stay.
+
+I desired not that Gallagher should be with me; and I expressed the wish
+to be left alone.
+
+My companion was a little surprised and puzzled at the request; but he
+was too well bred not to yield instant compliance.
+
+"Why, Geordie, boy!" said he, about to retire, "shurely there's
+something the matther wid ye?  It isn't this thrifling spurt we've been
+engaged in?  Didn't it ind intirely to your satisfaction?  Arrah, man!
+are ye sorry you didn't kill him dead?  Be my trath, you look as
+milancholic and down-hearted as if he had killed _you_!"
+
+"Dear friend, leave me alone.  On my return to quarters, you shall know
+the cause of my melancholy, and why I now desire to part from your
+pleasant company."
+
+"Oh, that part I can guess," rejoined he with a significant laugh;
+"always a petticoat where there's shots exchanged.  Niver mind, my boy,
+no saycrets for Charley Gallagher; I'm bad at keepin' them.  Ov coorse,
+you're going to meet betther company than mine; but laste you might fall
+in with worse--an' by my sowl! from what ye've towld me, that same isn't
+beyond the bounds of probability--take this little cheeper.  I'm a great
+dog-braker, you know."  Here the speaker handed me a silver call, which
+he had plucked from his button.  "If any thing inconvenient or
+disagraable should turn up, put that between your lips, an' Charley
+Gallagher will be at your side in the mention of Jack Robison's name.
+Cupid spade ye with your lady-love.  I'll go an' kill time over a
+tumbler ov nagus till ye come."
+
+So saying, my warm-hearted friend left me to myself.
+
+I ceased to think of him ere he was gone out of sight--even the bloody
+strife, in which I had been so recently engaged, glided out of my mind.
+Maumee--her falsehood and her fall--alone occupied my thoughts.
+
+For a long while, I made no doubt of what I had heard.  How could I,
+with proofs so circumstantial?--the testimony of those cognisant of the
+scandal--of the chief actor in it, whose silent smile spoke stronger
+than words.  That smile of insolent triumph--why had I permitted it to
+pass without challenge, without rebuke?  It was not too late--I should
+call upon him to speak plainly and point blank--yes or no.  If yes, then
+for a second duel more deadly than the first.
+
+Notwithstanding these resolves to make my rival declare himself, I
+doubted not the damning truth; I endeavoured to resign myself to its
+torture.
+
+For a long while was my soul upon the rack--more than an hour.  Then, as
+my blood grew more cool, reflections of a calmer nature entered my mind;
+and at intervals, I experienced the soothing influence of hope; this
+especially when I recalled the words of Haj-Ewa, spoken on the preceding
+night.  Surely the maniac had not been mocking me?  Surely it was not a
+dream of her delirious brain? a distorted _mirage_ of memory--the memory
+of some far-away, long-forgotten scene, by her only remembered?  No, no;
+her tale was not distorted--her thoughts were not delirious--her words
+were not mockeries!
+
+How sweet it was to think so!
+
+Yes--I began to experience intervals of placid thought: more than
+placid--pleasant.
+
+Alas! they were evanescent.  The memory of those bold meretricious
+phrases, those smiling innuendoes, dissipated or darkened them, as
+cumuli darken the sun.  "He _had_ succeeded."  She was now his
+favourite.  "Most certainly"--words worse than death.  Withal it was a
+foul testimony on which to build a faith.
+
+I longed for light, that true light--the evidence of the senses--that
+leaves nought uncertain.  I should seek it with rash directness,
+reckless of the result, till it illumined her whole history, proving the
+past a disgrace, the future a chaos of utter despair.  I longed for
+light; I longed for the coming of Haj-Ewa.
+
+I knew not what the maniac wanted--something, I supposed, concerning the
+captive.  Since noon, I had little thought of him.  The mad queen went
+everywhere, knew every one; she must know all, understand all--ay, well
+understand; she, too, had been betrayed.
+
+I repaired to our place of meeting on the preceding night; there I might
+expect her.  I crossed the little ridge among the stems of the
+palmettoes; it was the direct route to the shadowy side of the tank.  I
+descended the slope, and stood as before under the spreading arms of the
+live-oak.
+
+Haj-Ewa was before me.  A single moonbeam slanting athwart the leaves,
+shone upon her majestic figure.  Under its light the two serpents
+glittered with a metallic lustre, as though her neck and waist were
+encircled with precious gems.
+
+"_Hinklas_! pretty mico! you are come.  Gallant mico! where was thine
+eye and thine arm that thou didst not kill the _Iste-hulwa_?"
+[Literally bad man--villain.]
+
+  "Ah! the hunter of the deer--
+  He was stricken so with fear
+  When he stood before the wolf,
+  The gaunt wicked wolf,
+  When he saw the snarling wolf,
+  He trembled so with fear,
+  That unharmed the fierce wolf ran away.
+
+"Ha, ha, ha! was it not so, brave mico?"
+
+"It was not fear that hindered me, Ewa.  Besides, the wolf did not go
+unscathed."
+
+"Ho! the wolf has a wounded leg--he will lick himself well again; he
+will soon be strong as ever.  _Hulwak_! you should have killed him, fair
+mico, ere he bring the pack upon you."
+
+"I could not help my ill luck.  I am unfortunate every way."
+
+"_Cooree, cooree_--no.  You shall be happy, young mico; you _shall_ be
+happy, friend of the red Seminole.  Wait till you see--"
+
+"See what?"
+
+"Patience, _chepawnee_!  To-night under this very tree, you will see
+what is fair--you will hear what is sweet--and perchance Haj-Ewa will be
+revenged."
+
+This last phrase was spoken with an earnest emphasis, and in a tone that
+shewed a strong feeling of resentment against some one unknown.  I could
+not comprehend the nature of the expected vengeance.
+
+"His son--yes," continued the maniac, now in soliloquy, "it must be--it
+must: his eyes, his hair, his form, his gait, his _name_; _his_ son and
+_hers_.  Oh, Haj-Ewa will have revenge."
+
+Was I myself the object of this menace?  Such a thought entered my mind.
+
+"Good Ewa! of whom are you speaking?"
+
+Roused by my voice, she looked upon me with a bewildered stare, and then
+broke out into her habitual chant:
+
+  "Why did I trust to a pale-faced lover?
+  Ho, ho, ho!" etc.
+
+Suddenly stopping, she seemed once more to remember herself, and essayed
+a reply to my question.
+
+"Whom, young mico?  Of him the fair one--the wicked one--the _Wykome
+hulwa_ [the spirit of evil].  See! he comes, he comes!  Behold him in
+the water.  Ho, ho! it is he.  Up, young mico! up into thy leafy bower;
+stay till Ewa comes!  Hear what you may hear--see what you may see; but,
+for your life, stir not till I give you the signal.  Up, up, up!"
+
+Just as on the preceding night, half lifting me into the live-oak, the
+maniac glided away amidst the shadows.
+
+I lost no time in getting into my former position, where I sat silent
+and expecting.
+
+The shadow had grown shorter, but there was still enough to shew me that
+it was the form of a man.  In another moment, it vanished.
+
+Scarcely an instant had elapsed, ere a second was flung upon the water,
+advancing over the ridge, and as if following the track of the former
+one, though the two persons did not appear to be in company.
+
+That which followed I could trace in full outline.  It was the figure of
+a woman, one whose upright bearing and free port proved her to be young.
+
+Even the shadow exhibited a certain symmetry of form and gracefulness of
+motion, incompatible with age.  Was it still Haj-Ewa?  Had she gone
+round through the thicket, and was now following the footsteps of the
+man?
+
+For a moment I fancied so; but I soon perceived that my fancy was
+astray.
+
+The man advanced under the tree.  The same moonbeam, that but a moment
+before had shone upon Haj-Ewa, now fell upon him, and I saw him with
+sufficient distinctness; he was the aide-de-camp.
+
+He stopped, took out his watch, held it up to the light, and appeared to
+be inquiring the hour.
+
+But I heeded him no further.  Another face appeared under that silvery
+ray--false and shining as itself: it was the face that to me seemed the
+loveliest in the world--the face of Maumee.
+
+
+
+CHAPTER FORTY FOUR.
+
+AN ECLAIRCISSEMENT.
+
+These were the shadows upon the water promised by Haj-Ewa--black shadows
+upon my heart.
+
+Mad queen of the Micosaucs! what have I done to deserve this torture?
+Thou too my enemy!  Had I been thy deadliest foe, thou couldst scarcely
+have contrived a keener sting for thy vengeance.
+
+Face to face stood Maumee and her lover--seduced and seducer.  I had no
+doubt as to the identity of either.  The moonbeam fell upon both--no
+longer with soft silvery light, but gleaming rude and red, like the
+chandeliers of a bagnio.  It may have been but a seeming--the reflection
+of an inflamed imagination that influenced me from within; but my belief
+in her innocence was gone--hopelessly gone; the very air seemed tainted
+with her guilt--the world appeared a chaos of debauchery and ruin.
+
+I had no other thought than that I was present at a scene of
+assignation.  How could I think otherwise?  No signs of surprise were
+exhibited by either, as they came together.  They met as those who have
+promised to come--who have often met before.
+
+Evidently each expected the other.  Though other emotions declared
+themselves, there was not the slightest sign of novelty in the
+encounter.
+
+For me, it was a terrible crisis.  The anguish of a whole life
+compressed into the space of a single moment could not have been more
+unendurable.  The blood seemed to scald my heart as it gushed through.
+So acute was the pang, I could scarcely restrain myself from crying
+aloud.
+
+An effort--a stern determined effort--and the throe was over.  Firmly
+bracing my nerves--firmly grasping the branches--I clung to my seat,
+resolved to know more.
+
+That was a fortunate resolution.  Had I at that moment given way to the
+wild impulse of passion, and sought a reckless revenge, I should in all
+likelihood have carved out for myself a long lifetime of sorrow.
+Patience proved my guardian angel, and the end was otherwise.
+
+Not a word--not a motion--not a breath.  What will they say?--what do?
+
+My situation was like his of the suspended sword.  On second thoughts,
+the simile is both trite and untrue: the sword had already fallen; it
+could wound me no more.  I was as one paralysed both in body and soul--
+impervious to further pain.
+
+Not a word--not a motion--not a breath.  What will they say?--what do?
+
+The light is full upon Maumee; I can see her from head to foot.  How
+large she has grown--a woman in all her outlines, perfect, entire.  And
+her loveliness has kept pace with her growth.  Larger, she is lovelier
+than ever.  Demon of jealousy! art thou not content with what thou hast
+already done?  Have I not suffered enough?  Why hast thou presented her
+in such witching guise?  O that she were scarred, hideous, hag-like--as
+she shall yet become!  Even thus to see her, would be some
+satisfaction--an anodyne to my chafed soul.
+
+But it is not so.  Her face is sweetly beautiful--never so beautiful
+before.  Soft and innocent as ever--not a line of guilt can be traced on
+those placid features--not a gleam of evil in that round, rolling eye!
+The angels of heaven are beautiful; but they are good.  Oh, who could
+believe in crime concealed under such loveliness as hers?
+
+I expected a more meretricious mien.  There was a scintillation of cheer
+in the disappointment.
+
+Do not suppose that these reflections occupied time.  In a few seconds
+they passed through my mind, for thought is quicker than the magnetic
+shock.  They passed while I was waiting to hear the first words that, to
+my surprise, were for some moments unspoken.  To my surprise; _I_ could
+not have met her in such fashion.  My heart would have been upon my
+tongue, and lips--
+
+I see it now.  The hot burst of passion is past--the springs tide of
+love has subsided--such an interview is no longer a novelty--perhaps he
+grows tired of her, foul libertine that he is!  See! they meet with some
+shyness.  Coldness has risen between them--a love quarrel--fool is he as
+villain--fool not to rush into those arms, and at once reconcile it.
+Would that his opportunities were mine!--not all the world could
+restrain me from seeking that sweet embrace.
+
+Bitter as were my thoughts, they were less bitter on observing this
+attitude of the lovers.  I fancied it was half-hostile.
+
+Not a word--not a motion--not a breath.  What will they say;--what do.
+
+My suspense came to an end.  The aide-de-camp at length found his
+tongue.
+
+"Lovely Maumee, you have kept your promise."
+
+"But you, sir, have not yours?  No--I read it in your looks.  You have
+yet done nothing for us?"
+
+"Be assured, Maumee, I have not had an opportunity.  The general has
+been so busy, I have had no chance to press the matter upon him.  But do
+not be impatient.  I shall be certain to persuade him; and your property
+shall be restored to you in due time.  Tell your mother not to feel
+uneasy: for _your_ sake, beautiful Maumee, I shall spare no exertion.
+Believe me, I am as anxious as yourself; but you must know the stern
+disposition of my uncle; and, moreover, that he is on the 'most friendly
+terms with the Ringgold family.  In this will lie the main difficulty,
+but I fear not that I shall be able to surmount it."
+
+"O sir, your words are fine, but they have little worth with us now.  We
+have waited long upon your promise to befriend us.  We only wished for
+an investigation; and you might easily have obtained it ere this.  We no
+longer care for our lands, for greater wrongs make us forget the less.
+I should not have been here to-night, had we not been in sad grief at
+the misfortune--I should rather say outrage--that has fallen upon my
+poor brother.  You have professed friendship to our family.  I come to
+seek it now, for now may you give proof of it.  Obtain my brother's
+freedom, and we shall then believe in the fair words you have so often
+spoken.  Do not say it is impossible; it cannot even be difficult for
+you who hold so much authority among the white chiefs.  My brother may
+have been rude; but he has committed no crime that should entail severe
+punishment.  A word to the great war-chief, and he would be set free.
+Go, then, and speak that word."
+
+"Lovely Maumee! you do not know the nature of the errand upon which you
+send me.  Your brother is a prisoner by orders of the agent, and by the
+act of the commander-in-chief.  It is not with us as among your people.
+I am only a subordinate in rank, and were I to offer the counsel you
+propose, I should be rebuked--perhaps punished."
+
+"Oh, you fear rebuke for doing an act of justice?--to say naught of your
+much offered friendship?  Good, sir!  I have no more to say, except
+this--we believe you no longer.  You need come to our humble dwelling no
+more."
+
+She was turning away with a scornful smile.  How beautiful seemed that
+scorn!
+
+"Stay, Maumee!--fair Maumee, do not part from me thus--doubt not that I
+will do all in my power--"
+
+"Do what I have asked you.  Set my brother free--let him return to his
+home."
+
+"And if I should--"
+
+"Well, sir."
+
+"Know, Maumee, that for me to do so would be to risk everything.  I
+might be degraded from my rank--reduced to the condition of a common
+soldier--disgraced in the eyes of my country--ay, punished, perhaps, by
+imprisonment worse than that which your brother is likely to endure.
+All this would I risk by the act."
+
+The girl paused in her step, but made no reply.  "And yet all these
+chances shall I undergo--ay, the danger of death itself--if you, fair
+Maumee,"--here the speaker waxed passionate and insinuating--"if you
+will only consent."
+
+"Consent--to what, sir?"
+
+"Lovely Maumee, need I tell you?  Surely you understand my meaning.  You
+cannot be blind to the love--to the passion--to the deep devotion with
+which your beauty has inspired me--"
+
+"Consent to what, sir?" demanded she, repeating her former words, and in
+a soft tone, that seemed to promise compliance.  "Only to love me, fair
+Maumee--_to become my mistress_."  For some moments, there was no reply.
+The grand woman seemed immobile as a statue.  She did not even start on
+hearing the foul proposal, but, on the contrary, stood as if turned to
+stone.
+
+Her silence had an encouraging effect upon the ardent lover; he appeared
+to take it for assent.  He could not have looked into her eye, or he
+would there have read an expression that would have hindered him from
+pressing his suit farther.  No--he could not have observed that glance,
+or he would hardly have made such a mistake.
+
+"Only promise it, fair Maumee; your brother shall be free before the
+morning, and you shall have everything--"
+
+"Villain, villain, villain!  Ha, ha! ha, ha!  Ha, ha! ha, ha, ha!"
+
+In all my life, I never heard aught so delightful as that laugh.  It was
+the sweetest sound that ever fell upon my ears.  Not all the
+wedding-bells that ever rang--not all the lutes that ever played--not
+all the harps and hautboys--the clarions and trumpets--in the world,
+could have produced such melodious music for me.
+
+The moon seemed to pour silver from the sky--the stars had grown bigger
+and brighter--the breeze became filled with delicious odours, as if a
+perfumed censer had been spilled from heaven, and the whole scene
+appeared suddenly transformed into an Elysium.
+
+
+
+CHAPTER FORTY FIVE.
+
+TWO DUELS IN ONE DAY.
+
+The crisis might have been my cue to come down; but I was overpowered
+with a sense of delightful happiness, and could not stir from my seat.
+The arrow had been drawn out of my breast, leaving not a taint of its
+poison--the blood coursed pleasantly through my veins--my pulse throbbed
+firm and free--my soul was triumphant.  I could have cried out for very
+joy.
+
+With an effort, I held my peace, and waited for the _denouement_--for I
+saw that the scene was not yet at an end.
+
+"Mistress, indeed!" exclaimed the bold beauty in scornful accent.  "And
+this is the motive of your proffered friendship.  Vile wretch! for what
+do you mistake me? a camp-wench, or a facile squaw of the Yamassee?
+Know, sir, that I am your equal in blood and race; and though your
+pale-faced friends have robbed me of my inheritance, there is that which
+neither they nor you can take from me--the honour of my name.  Mistress,
+indeed!  Silly fellow!  No--not even your _wife_.  Sooner than sell
+myself to such base love as yours, I should wander naked through the
+wild woods, and live upon the acorns of the oak.  Rather than redeem him
+at such a price, my brave brother would spend his lifetime in your
+chains.  Oh, that he were here!  Oh, that he were witness of this foul
+insult!  Wretch! he would smite thee like a reed to the earth."
+
+The eye, the attitude, the foot firmly planted, the fearless determined
+bearing--all reminded me of Osceola while delivering himself before the
+council.  Maumee was undoubtedly his sister.
+
+The _soi-disant_ lover quailed before the withering reproach, and for
+some time stood shrinking and abashed.
+
+He had more than one cause for abasement.  He might feel regret at
+having made a proposal so ill received; but far more at the
+disappointment of his hopes, and the utter discomfiture of his designs.
+
+Perhaps, the moment before, he would have smothered his chagrin, and
+permitted the girl to depart without molestation; but the scornful
+apostrophe had roused him to a sort of frenzied recklessness; and
+probably it was only at that moment that he formed the resolve to carry
+his rudeness still further, and effect his purpose by force.
+
+I could not think that he had held such design, anterior to his coming
+on the ground.  Professed libertine though he was, he was not the man
+for such perilous emprise.  He was but a speck of vain conceit, and
+lacked the reckless daring of the ravisher.  It was only when stung by
+the reproaches of the Indian maiden, that he resolved upon proceeding to
+extremes.
+
+She had turned her back upon him, and was moving away.
+
+"Not so fast!" cried he, rushing after, and grasping her by the wrist;
+"not so fast, my brown-skinned charmer!  Do you think you can cast me
+off so lightly?  I have followed you for months, and, by the god of
+Phoebus, I shall make you pay for the false smiles you have treated me
+to.  You needn't struggle; we are alone here; and ere we part, I
+shall--"
+
+I heard no more of this hurried speech--I had risen from my perch, and
+was hurrying down to the rescue; but before I could reach the spot,
+another was before me.
+
+Haj-Ewa--her eyes glaring fiercely--with a wild maniac laugh upon her
+lips--was rushing forward.  She held the body of the rattlesnake in her
+extended hands, its head projected in front, while its long neck was
+oscillating from side to side, showing that the reptile was angry, and
+eager to make an attack.  Its hiss, and the harsh "skirr-rr" of its
+rattles could be heard sounding at intervals as it was carried forward.
+
+In another instant, the maniac was face to face with the would-be
+ravisher--who, startled by her approach, had released his hold of the
+girl, and falling back a pace, stood gazing with amazement at this
+singular intruder.
+
+"_Ho, ho_!" screamed the maniac, as she glided up to the spot.  "His
+son, his son!  _Ho_!  I am sure of it, just like his false father--just
+as he on the day he wronged the trusting Ewa.  _Hulwak_!  It is the
+hour--the very hour--the moon in the same quarter, horned and wicked--
+smiling upon the guilt.  _Ho, ho_! the hour of the deed--the hour of
+vengeance!  The father's crime shall be atoned by the son.  Great
+Spirit! give me revenge!  _Chitta mico_! give me revenge!"
+
+As she uttered these apostrophic appeals, she sprang forward, holding
+the snake far outstretched--as if to give it the opportunity of striking
+the now terrified man.
+
+The latter mechanically drew his sword, and then, as if inspired by the
+necessity of defending himself, cried out:
+
+"Hellish sorceress! if you come a step nearer, I shall run you through
+the body.  Back, now!  Keep off, or, by--I shall do it!"
+
+The resolution expressed by his tone proved that the speaker was in
+earnest; but the appeal was unheeded.  The maniac continued to advance
+despite the shining blade that menaced her, and within reach of whose
+point she had already arrived.
+
+I was now close to the spot; I had drawn my own blade, and was hurrying
+forward to ward off the fatal blow which I expected every moment would
+be struck.  It was my design to save Haj-Ewa, who seemed recklessly
+rushing upon her destruction.
+
+In all probability, I should have been too late, had the thrust been
+given; but it was not.
+
+Whether from terror at the wild unearthly aspect of his assailants, or,
+what is more likely, fearing that she was about to fling the snake upon
+him, the man appeared struck with a sudden panic, and retreated
+backward.
+
+A step or two brought him to the edge of the water.  There were loose
+stones strewed thickly along the shore; among these his feet became
+entangled; and, balancing backward, he fell with a plash upon the pond!
+
+The water deepened abruptly, and he sank out of sight.  Perhaps the
+sudden immersion was the means of saving his life; but the moment after,
+he rose above the surface, and clambered hastily up on the bank.
+
+He was now furious, and with his drawn sword, which he had managed to
+retain hold of, he rushed towards the spot where Haj-Ewa still stood.
+His angry oaths told his determination to slay her.
+
+It was not the soft, yielding body of a woman, nor yet of a reptile,
+that his blade was to encounter.  It struck against steel, hard and
+shining as his own.
+
+I had thrown myself between him and his victims, and had succeeded in
+restraining Haj-Ewa from carrying out her vengeful design.  As the
+assailant approached, his rage, but more, the water half-blinding him,
+hindered him from seeing me; and it was not till our blades had rasped
+together, that he seemed aware of my presence.
+
+There was a momentary pause, accompanied by silence.
+
+"You, Randolph!" at length he exclaimed in a tone of surprise.
+
+"Ay, Lieutenant Scott--Randolph it is.  Pardon my intrusion, but your
+pretty love-scene changing so suddenly to a quarrel, I deemed it my duty
+to interfere."
+
+"You have been listening?--you have heard?--and pray, sir, what business
+have you either to play the spy on my actions, or interfere in my
+affairs?"
+
+"Business--right--duty--the duty which all men have to protect weak
+innocence from the designs of such a terrible Blue Beard as you appear
+to be."
+
+"By --, you shall rue this."
+
+"Now?--or when?"
+
+"Whenever you please."
+
+"No time like the present.  Come on."
+
+Not another word was spoken between us; but, the instant after, our
+blades were clinking in the fierce game of thrust and parry.
+
+The affair was short.  At the third or fourth lunge, I ran my antagonist
+through the right shoulder, disabling his arm.  His sword fell jingling
+among the pebbles.
+
+"You have wounded me!" cried he; "I am disarmed," he added, pointing to
+the fallen blade.  "Enough, sir; I am satisfied."
+
+"But not I--not till you have knelt upon these stones, and asked pardon
+from her whom you have so grossly insulted."
+
+"Never!" cried he; "never!"--and as he uttered these words, giving, as I
+presumed, a proof of determined courage, he turned suddenly; and, to my
+utter astonishment, commenced running away from the ground!
+
+I ran after, and soon overtook him.  I could have thrust him in the
+back, had I been sanguinarily inclined; but instead, I contented myself
+with giving him a foot-salute, in what Gallagher would have termed his
+"postayriors," and with no other adieu, left him to continue his
+shameful flight.
+
+
+
+CHAPTER FORTY SIX.
+
+A SILENT DECLARATION.
+
+  "Now for the love, the sweet young love,
+  Under the _tala_ tree," etc.
+
+It was the voice of Haj-Ewa, chanting one of her favourite melodies.
+Far sweeter the tones of another voice pronouncing my own name:
+
+"George Randolph!"
+
+"Maumee!"
+
+"_Ho, ho_! you both remember?--still remember?  _Hinklas_!  The island--
+that fair island--fair to you, but dark in the memory of Haj-Ewa.
+_Hulwak_!  I'll think of't no more--no, no, no!
+
+  "Now for the love, the sweet young love,
+  Under--
+
+"It was once mine--it is now yours, mico! yours, _haintclitz_!  Pretty
+creatures! enjoy it alone; you wish not the mad queen for a companion?
+Ha, ha!  _Cooree, cooree_!  I go; fear not the rustling wind, fear not
+the whispering trees; none can approach while Haj-Ewa watches.  She will
+be your guardian.  _Chitta mico_, too.  Ho, _chitta mico_!
+
+"Now for the love, the sweet young love."
+
+And again renewing her chant, the strange woman glided from the spot,
+leaving me alone with Maumee.
+
+The moment was not without embarrassment to me--perhaps to both of us.
+No profession had ever passed between us, no assurance, not a word of
+love.  Although I loved Maumee with all my heart's strength, although I
+now felt certain that she loved me, there had been no mutual declaration
+of our passion.  The situation was a peculiar one, and the tongue felt
+restraint.
+
+But words would have been superfluous in that hour.  There was an
+electricity passing between us--our souls were _en rapport_, our hearts
+in happy communion, and each understood the thoughts of the other.  Not
+all the words in the world could have given me surer satisfaction that
+the heart of Maumee was mine.
+
+It was scarcely possible that _she_ could misconceive.  With but slight
+variation, my thoughts were hers.  In all likelihood, Haj-Ewa had
+carried to her ears my earnest declaration.  Her look was joyful--
+assured.  She did not doubt me.
+
+I extended my arms, opening them widely.  Nature prompted me, or perhaps
+passion--all the same.  The silent signal was instantly understood, and
+the moment after, the head of my beloved was nestling upon my bosom.
+
+Not a word was spoken.  A low fond cry alone escaped her lips as she
+fell upon my breast, and twined her arms in rapturous compression around
+me.
+
+For some moments we exchanged not speech; our hearts alone held
+converse.
+
+Soon the embarrassment vanished, as a light cloud before the summer sun:
+not a trace of shyness remained; and we conversed in the confidence of
+mutual love.
+
+I am spared the writing of our love-speeches.  You have yourself heard
+or uttered them.  If too common-place to be repeated, so also are they
+too sacred.  I forbear to detail them.
+
+We had other thoughts to occupy us.  After a while, the transport of our
+mutual joys, though still sweet, assumed a more sober tinge; and,
+half-forgetting the present, we talked of the past and the future.
+
+I questioned Maumee much.  Without guile, she gave me the history of
+that long interval of absence.  She confessed, or rather declared--for
+there was no coquettish hesitation in her manner--that she had loved me
+from the first--even from that hour when I first saw and loved her:
+through the long silent years, by night as by day, had the one thought
+held possession of her bosom.  In her simplicity, she wondered I had not
+known of it!
+
+I reminded her that her love had never been declared.  It was true, she
+said; but she had never dreamt of concealing it.  She thought I might
+have perceived it.  Her instincts were keener: she had been _conscious
+of mine_!
+
+So declared she, with a freedom that put me off my guard.
+
+If not stronger, her passion was nobler than my own.
+
+She had never doubted me during the years of separation.  Only of late;
+but the cause of this doubt was explained: the pseudo-lover had poured
+poison into her ears.  Hence the errand of Haj-Ewa.
+
+Alas! my story was not so guileless.  Only part of the truth could I
+reveal; and my conscience smote me as I passed over many an episode that
+would have given pain.
+
+But the past was past, and could not be re-enacted.  A more righteous
+future was opening before me; and silently in my heart did I register
+vows of atonement.  Never more should I have cause to reproach myself--
+never would my love--never could it wander away from the beautiful being
+I held in my embrace.
+
+Proudly my bosom swelled as I listened to the ingenuous confession of
+her love, but sadly when other themes became the subject of our
+converse.  The story of family trials, of wrongs endured, of insults put
+upon them--and more especially by their white neighbours, the
+Ringgolds--caused my blood to boil afresh.
+
+The tale corresponded generally with what I had already learned; but
+there were other circumstances unknown to public rumour.  He, too--the
+wretched hypocrite--had _made love to her_.  He had of late desisted
+from his importunities, through fear of her brother, and dared no longer
+come near.
+
+The other, Scott, had made his approaches under the guise of friendship.
+He had learned, what was known to many, the position of affairs with
+regard to the Indian widow's plantation.  From his relationship in high
+quarters, he possessed influence, and had promised to exert it in
+obtaining restitution.  It was a mere pretence--a promise made without
+any intention of being kept; but, backed by fair words, it had deceived
+the generous, trusting heart of Osceola.  Hence the admission of this
+heartless cur into the confidence of a family intimacy.
+
+For months had the correspondence existed, though the opportunities were
+but occasional.  During all this time had the _soi-disant_ seducer been
+pressing his suit--though not very boldly, since he too dreaded the
+frown of that terrible brother--neither successfully: he had _not_
+succeeded.
+
+Ringgold well knew this when he affirmed the contrary.  His declaration
+had but one design--to sting _me_.  For such purpose, it could not have
+been made in better time.
+
+There was one thing I longed to know.  Surely Maumee, with her keen
+quick perception, from the girlish confidence that had existed between
+them--surely she could inform me.  I longed to know the relations that
+had existed between my sister and her brother.
+
+Much as I desired the information, I refrained from asking it.
+
+And yet we talked of both--of Virginia especially, for Maumee remembered
+my sister with affection, and made many inquiries in relation to her.
+Virginia was more beautiful than ever, she had heard, and accomplished
+beyond all others.  She wondered if my sister would remember those walks
+and girlish amusements--those happy hours upon the island.
+
+"Perhaps," thought I, "_too well_."
+
+It was a theme that gave me pain.
+
+The future claimed our attention; the past was now bright as heaven, but
+there were clouds in the sky of the future.
+
+We talked of that nearest and darkest--the imprisonment of Osceola.  How
+long would it last?  What could be done to render it as brief as
+possible?
+
+I promised to do everything in my power; and I purposed as I promised.
+It was my firm resolve to leave no stone unturned to effect the
+liberation of the captive chief.  If right should not prevail, I was
+determined to try stratagem.  Even with the sacrifice of my commission--
+even though personal disgrace should await me--the risk of life itself--
+I resolved he should be free.
+
+I needed not to add to my declaration the emphasis of an oath; I was
+believed without that.  A flood of gratitude was beaming from those
+liquid orbs; and the silent pressure of love-burning lips was sweeter
+thanks than words could have uttered.
+
+It was time for parting; the moon told the hour of midnight.
+
+On the crest of the hill, like a bronze statue outlined against the pale
+sky, stood the mad queen.  A signal brought her to our side; and after
+another embrace, one more fervid pressure of sweet lips, Maumee and I
+parted.
+
+Her strange but faithful guardian led her away by some secret path, and
+I was left alone.
+
+I could scarcely take myself away from that consecrated ground; and I
+remained for some minutes longer, giving full play to triumphant and
+rapturous reflections.
+
+The declining moon again warned me; and, crossing the crest of the hill,
+I hastened back to the Fort.
+
+
+
+CHAPTER FORTY SEVEN.
+
+THE CAPTIVE.
+
+Late as was the hour, I determined to visit the captive before going to
+rest.  My design would not admit of delay; besides, I had a suspicion
+that, before another day passed, my own liberty might be curtailed.  Two
+duels in one day--two antagonists wounded, and both friends to the
+commander-in-chief--myself comparatively friendless--it was hardly
+probable I should escape "scot free."  Arrest I expected as certain--
+perhaps a trial by court-martial, with a fair chance of being cashiered
+the service.
+
+Despite my lukewarmness in the cause in which we had become engaged, I
+could not contemplate this result without uneasiness.  Little did I care
+for my commission: I could live without it; but whether right or wrong,
+few men are indifferent to the censure of their fellows, and no man
+likes to bear the brand of official disgrace.  Reckless as one may be of
+self, kindred and family have a concern in the matter not to be lightly
+ignored.
+
+Gallagher's views were different.
+
+"Let them arrist and cashear, an' be hanged!  What need you care?  Divil
+a bit, my boy.  Sowl, man, if I were in your boots, with a fine
+plantation and a whole regiment of black nagers, I'd snap my fingers at
+the sarvice, and go to raisin' shugar and tobaccay.  Be Saint Pathrick!
+that's what I'd do."
+
+My friend's consolatory speech failed to cheer me; and, in no very
+joyous mood, I walked towards the quarters of the captive, to add still
+further to my chances of "cashierment."
+
+Like an eagle freshly caught and caged--like a panther in a pentrap--
+furious, restless, at intervals uttering words of wild menace, I found
+the young chief of the _Baton Rouge_.
+
+The apartment was quite dark; there was no window to admit even the grey
+lustre of the night; and the corporal who guided me in carried neither
+torch nor candle.  He went back to the guard-house to procure one,
+leaving me in darkness.
+
+I heard the footfall of a man.  It was the sound of a moccasined foot,
+and soft as the tread of a tiger; but mingling with this was the sharp
+clanking of a chain.  I heard the breathing of one evidently in a state
+of excitement, and now and then an exclamation of fierce anger.  Without
+light, I could perceive that the prisoner was pacing the apartment in
+rapid, irregular strides.  At least his limbs were free.
+
+I had entered silently, and stood near the door, I had already
+ascertained that the prisoner was alone; but waited for the light before
+addressing him.  Preoccupied as he appeared to be, I fancied that he was
+not conscious of my presence.
+
+My fancy was at fault.  I heard him stop suddenly in his tracks--as if
+turning towards me--and the next moment his voice fell upon my ear.  To
+my surprise, it pronounced my name.  He must have seen through the
+darkness.
+
+"You, Randolph!" he said, in a tone that expressed reproach; "you, too,
+in the ranks of our enemies?  Armed--uniformed--equipped--ready to aid
+in driving us from our homes!"
+
+"Powell!"
+
+"Not Powell, sir; my name is Osceola."
+
+"To me, still Edward Powell--the friend of my youth, the preserver of my
+life.  By that name alone do I remember you."
+
+There was a momentary pause.  The speech had evidently produced a
+conciliating effect; perhaps memories of the past had come over him.
+
+He replied:
+
+"Your errand?  Come you as a friend? or only like others, to torment me
+with idle words?  I have had visitors already; gay, gibbering fools,
+with forked tongues, who would counsel me to dishonour.  Have _you_ been
+sent upon a like mission?"
+
+From this speech I concluded that Scott--the pseudo-friend--had already
+been with the captive--likely on some errand from the agent.
+
+"I come of my own accord--as a friend."
+
+"George Randolph, I believe you.  As a boy, you possessed a soul of
+honour.  The straight sapling rarely grows to a crooked tree.  I will
+not believe that you are changed, though enemies have spoken against
+you.  No--no; your hand, Randolph--your hand! forgive me for doubting
+you."
+
+I reached through the darkness to accept the proffered salute.  Instead
+of one, I grasped both hands of the prisoner.  I felt that they were
+manacled together: for all that, the pressure was firm and true; nor did
+I return it with less warmth.
+
+Enemies had spoken against me.  I needed not to ask who these were: that
+had been already told me; but I felt it necessary to give the captive
+assurance of my friendship.  I needed his full confidence to insure the
+success of the plan which I had conceived for his liberation; and to
+secure this, I detailed to him what had transpired by the pond--only a
+portion of what had passed.  There was a portion of it I could not
+intrust even to the ears of a brother.
+
+I anticipated a fresh paroxysm of fury, but was agreeably disappointed.
+The young chief had been accustomed to harsh developments, and could
+outwardly control himself; but I saw that my tale produced an impression
+that told deeply, if not loudly, upon him.  In the darkness, I could not
+see his face; but the grinding teeth and hissing ejaculations were
+expressive of the strong passions stirring within.
+
+"Fool!" he exclaimed at length--"blind fool that I have been!  And yet I
+suspected this smooth-tongued villain from the first.  Thanks, noble
+Randolph!  I can never repay this act of chivalric friendship;
+henceforth you may command Osceola!"
+
+"Say no more, Powell; you have nothing to repay; it was I who was the
+debtor.  But come, we lose time.  My purpose in coming here is to
+counsel you to a plan for procuring your release from this awkward
+confinement.  We must be brief, else my intentions may be suspected."
+
+"What plan, Randolph?"
+
+"You must sign the treaty of the Oclawaha."
+
+
+
+CHAPTER FORTY EIGHT.
+
+THE WAR-CRY.
+
+A single "Ugh!" expressive of contemptuous surprise, was all the reply;
+and then a deep silence succeeded.
+
+I broke the silence by repeating my demand.
+
+"You must sign it."
+
+"Never!" came the response, in a tone of emphatic determination.
+"Never!  Sooner than do that, I will linger among these logs till decay
+has worn the flesh from my bones, and dried up the blood in my veins.
+Sooner than turn traitor to my tribe, I will rush against the bayonets
+of my jailers, and perish upon the spot.  Never!"
+
+"Patience, Powell, patience!  You do not understand me--you, in common
+with other chiefs, appear to misconceive the terms of this treaty.
+Remember, it binds you to a mere conditional promise--to surrender your
+lands and move west, only in case a _majority of your nation agree to
+it_.  Now, to-day a majority has _not_ agreed, nor will the addition of
+your name make the number a majority."
+
+"True, true," interrupted the chief, beginning to comprehend my meaning.
+
+"Well, then, you may sign, and not feel bound by your signature, since
+the most essential condition still remains unfulfilled.  And why should
+you not adopt this ruse?  Ill-used as you certainly have been, no one
+could pronounce it dishonourable in you.  For my part, I believe you
+would be justified in any expedient that would free you from so wrongful
+an imprisonment."
+
+Perhaps my principles were scarcely according to the rules of moral
+rectitude; but at that moment they took their tone from strong emotions;
+and to the eyes of friendship and love the wrong was not apparent.
+
+Osceola was silent.  I observed that he was meditating on what I had
+urged.
+
+"Why, Randolph," said he, after a pause, "you must have dwelt in
+Philadelphia, that famed city of lawyers.  I never took this view
+before.  You are right; signing would _not_ bind me--it is true.  But
+think you that the agent would be satisfied with my signature?  He hates
+me; I know it, and his reasons.  I hate _him_, for many reasons; for
+this is not the first outrage I have suffered at his hands.  Will he be
+satisfied if I sign?"
+
+"I am almost certain of it.  Simulate submission, _if you can_.  Write
+your name to the treaty, and you will be at once set free."
+
+I had no doubt of this.  From what I had learned since Osceola's arrest,
+I had reason to believe that Thompson repented his conduct.  It was the
+opinion of others that he had acted rashly, and that his act was likely
+to provoke evil consequences.  Whispers of this nature had reached him;
+and from what the captive told me of the visit of the aide-de-camp, I
+could perceive that it was nothing else than a mission from the agent
+himself.  Beyond doubt, the latter was tired of his prisoner, and would
+release him on the easiest terms.
+
+"Friend!  I shall act as you advise.  I shall sign.  You may inform the
+commissioner of my intention."
+
+"I shall do so at the earliest hour I can see him.  It is late: shall I
+say good night?"
+
+"Ah, Randolph! it is hard to part with a friend--the only one with a
+white skin now left me.  I could have wished to talk over other days,
+but, alas! this is neither the place nor the time."
+
+The haughty mien of the proud chief was thrown aside, and his voice had
+assumed the melting tenderness of early years.
+
+"Yes," he continued, "the only white friend left--the only one I have
+any regard for--one other whom I--"
+
+He stopped suddenly, and with an embarrassed air, as if he had found
+himself on the eve of disclosing some secret, which on reflection he
+deemed it imprudent to reveal.
+
+I awaited the disclosure with some uneasiness, but it came not.  When he
+spoke again, his tone and manner were completely changed.
+
+"The whites have done us much wrong," he continued, once more rousing
+himself into an angry attitude--"wrongs too numerous to be told; but, by
+the Great Spirit!  I shall seek revenge.  Never till now have I sworn
+it; but the deeds of this day have turned my blood into fire.  Ere you
+came, I had vowed to take the lives of two, who have been our especial
+enemies.  You have not changed my resolution, only strengthened it; you
+have added a third to the list of my deadly foes: and once more I
+swear--by Wykome, I swear--that I shall take no rest till the blood of
+these three men has reddened the leaves of the forest--three white
+villains, and one red traitor.  Ay, Omatla! triumph in your treason--it
+will not be for long--soon shalt thou feel the Vengeance of a patriot--
+soon shalt thou shrink under the steel of Osceola!"
+
+I made no reply, but waited in silence till this outburst of passion had
+passed.
+
+In a few moments the young chief became calm, and again addressed me in
+the language of friendship.
+
+"One word," said he, "before we part.  Circumstances may hinder us--it
+may be long ere we meet again.  Alas! our next meeting may be as foes in
+the field of fight--for I will not attempt to conceal from you that I
+have no intention to make peace.  No--never!  I wish to make a request;
+I know, Randolph, you will accede to it without asking an explanation.
+Accept this token, and if you esteem the friendship of the giver, and
+would honour him, wear it conspicuously upon your breast.  That is all."
+
+As he spoke, he took from around his neck a chain, upon which was
+suspended the image of the Rising Sun--already alluded to.  He passed
+the chain over my head, until the glistening symbol hung down upon my
+breast.
+
+I made no resistance to this offering of friendship, but promising to
+comply with his request, presented my watch in return, and, after
+another cordial pressure of hands, we parted.
+
+------------------------------------------------------------------------
+
+As I had anticipated, there was but little difficulty in obtaining the
+release of the Seminole chief.  Though the commissioner entertained a
+personal hatred against Osceola--for causes to me unknown--he dared not
+indulge his private spite in an official capacity.  He had placed
+himself in a serious dilemma by what he had already done; and as I
+communicated the purposed submission of the prisoner, I saw that
+Thompson was but too eager to adopt a solution of his difficulty, easy
+as unexpected.  He therefore lost no time in seeking an interview with
+the captive chief.
+
+The latter played his part with admirable tact; the fierce, angry
+attitude of yesterday had given place to one of mild resignation.  A
+night in the guard-house, hungered and manacled, had tamed down his
+proud spirit, and he was now ready to accept any conditions that would
+restore him to liberty.  So fancied the commissioner.
+
+The treaty was produced.  Osceola signed it without saying a word.  His
+chains were taken off--his prison-door thrown open--and he was permitted
+to depart without further molestation.  Thompson had triumphed, or
+fancied so.
+
+It was but fancy.  Had he noticed, as I did, the fine satirical smile
+that played upon the lips of Osceola as he stepped forth from the gate,
+he would scarcely have felt confidence in his triumph.
+
+He was not allowed to exult long in the pleasant hallucination.
+
+Followed by the eyes of all, the young chief walked off with a proud
+step towards the woods.
+
+On arriving near the edge of the timber, he faced round to the fort,
+drew the shining blade from his belt, waved it above his head, and in
+defiant tones shouted back the war-cry, "Yo-ho-ehee!"
+
+Three times the wild signal pealed upon our ears; and at the third
+repetition, he who had uttered it turned again, sprang forward into the
+timber, and was instantly lost to our view.
+
+There was no mistaking the intent of that demonstration; even the
+self-glorifying commissioner was convinced that it meant "war to the
+knife," and men were hurriedly ordered in pursuit.
+
+An armed crowd rushed forth from the gate, and flung themselves on the
+path that had been taken by the _ci-devant_ captive.
+
+The chase proved bootless and fruitless; and after more than an hour
+spent in vein search, the soldiers came straggling back to the fort.
+
+------------------------------------------------------------------------
+
+Gallagher and I had stayed all the morning in my quarters, expecting the
+order that would confine me there.  To our astonishment it came not:
+there was no arrest.
+
+In time, we obtained the explanation.  Of my two duelling antagonists,
+the first had not returned to the fort after his defeat, but had been
+carried to the house of a friend--several miles distant.  This partially
+covered the scandal of that affair.  The other appeared with his arm in
+a sling; but it was the impression, as Gallagher learned outside, that
+his horse had carried him against a tree.  For manifest reasons the
+interesting invalid had not disclosed the true cause of his being
+"crippled," and I applauded his silence.  Except to my friend, I made no
+disclosure of what had occurred, and it was long before the affair got
+wind.
+
+Upon duty, the aide-de-camp and I often met afterwards, and were
+frequently compelled to exchange speech; but it was always of an
+official character, and, I need not add, was spoken in the severest
+reserve.
+
+It was not long before circumstances arose to separate us; and I was
+glad to part company with a man for whom I felt a profound contempt.
+
+
+
+CHAPTER FORTY NINE.
+
+WAR TO THE KNIFE.
+
+For some weeks following the council at Fort King, there appeared to be
+tranquillity over the land.  The hour of negotiation had passed--that
+for action was nigh; and among the white settlers the leading topic of
+conversation was how the Indians would act?  Would they fight, or give
+in?  The majority believed they would submit.
+
+Some time was granted them to prepare for the removal--runners were sent
+to all the tribes, appointing a day for them to bring in their horses
+and cattle to the fort.  These were to be sold by auction, under the
+superintendence of the agent; and their owners were to receive a fair
+value for them on their arrival at their new home in the west.  Their
+plantations or "improvements" were to be disposed of in a similar
+manner.
+
+The day of auction came round; but, to the chagrin of the commissioner,
+the expected flocks did not make their appearance, and the sale had to
+be postponed.
+
+The failure on the part of the Indians to bring in their cattle was a
+hint of what might be expected; though others, of a still more palpable
+nature, were soon afforded.
+
+The tranquillity that had reigned for some weeks was but the ominous
+silence that precedes the storm.  Like the low mutterings of the distant
+thunder, events now began to occur, the sure harbingers of an
+approaching conflict.
+
+As usual, the white man was the aggressor.  Three Indians were found
+hunting outside the boundary of the "reserve."  They were made captives
+by a party of white men, and, fast bound with raw-hide ropes, were
+confined in a log-stable belonging to one of the party.  In this
+situation they were kept three days and nights, until a band of their
+own tribe hearing of their confinement, hastened to their rescue.  There
+was a skirmish, in which some Indians were wounded; but the white men
+fled, and the captives were released.
+
+"On bringing them forth to the light, their friends beheld a most
+pitiable sight,"--I am quoting from a faithful history--"the rope with
+which these poor fellows were tied had worn through the flesh: they had
+temporarily lost the use of their limbs, being unable to stand or walk.
+They had bled profusely, and had received no food during their
+confinement; so it may readily be imagined that they presented a
+horrible picture of suffering."
+
+Again: "Six Indians were at their camp near Kanapaha Pond, when a party
+of whites came upon them, took their guns from them, examined their
+packs, and commenced whipping them.  While in the act, two other Indians
+approached, and seeing what was going on, fired upon the whites.  The
+latter returned the fire, killed one of the Indians, and severely
+wounded the other."
+
+Exasperation was natural--retaliation certain.  On the other side, read:
+
+"On the 11th of August, Dalton, the mail-carrier between Fort King and
+Fort Brooke, was met within six miles of the latter place by a party of
+Indians, who seized the reins of his horse, and dragging him from the
+saddle, shot him dead.  The mangled body was discovered some days
+afterwards concealed in the woods."
+
+"A party of fourteen mounted men proceeded on a scout towards
+Wacahonta--the plantation of Captain Gabriel Priest--and when within one
+mile of the place, they came upon a small hommock, through which some of
+the party declined passing.  Four of them, however, dashed into it, when
+the Indians suddenly arose from ambush, and fired upon them.  The two in
+advance were wounded.  A Mr Foulke received a bullet in his neck, but
+was picked up by those in his rear, and borne off.  The other, a son of
+Captain Priest, had his arm broken, and his horse shot dead under him.
+He fled, and sinking his body in a swamp, succeeded in eluding the
+search of the pursuers."
+
+"About the same time, a party of Indians attacked a number of men who
+were employed cutting live-oak timber on an island in Lake George.  The
+men escaped by taking to their boats, though two of their number were
+wounded."
+
+"At New River, on the south-east side of the peninsula, the Indians
+attacked the house of a Mr Cooley--murdered his wife, children, and a
+tutor engaged in the family.  They carried off twelve barrels of
+provisions, thirty hogs, three horses, one keg of powder, over two
+hundred pounds of lead, seven hundred dollars in silver, and two
+negroes.  Mr Cooley was absent at the time.  On his return, he found
+his wife shot through the heart with her infant child in her arms, and
+his two oldest children also shot in the same place.  The girl still
+held her book in her hands, and the boy's lay by his side.  The house
+was in flames."
+
+"At Spring Garden, on the Saint Johns, the extensive plantation of
+Colonel Rees was laid waste, and his buildings burnt to the ground.
+Sugar-cane, sufficient to manufacture ninety hogsheads, was destroyed;
+besides thirty hogsheads of sugar, and _one hundred and sixty-two
+negroes were carried off_.  The mules and horses were also taken.  The
+same Indians destroyed the buildings of M. Depeyster, with _whose
+negroes they formed a league_; and being supplied with a boat, they
+crossed the river and fired the establishment of Captain Dummett.  Major
+Heriot's plantation was laid waste, and _eighty of his negroes moved off
+with the Indians_.  Then on towards San Augustine, where the extensive
+plantations of General Hernandez were reduced to a ruin; next, Bulow's,
+Dupont's of Buen Retiro, Dunham's, McRae's of Tomoka Creek, the
+plantations of Bayas, General Herring, and Bartalone Solano, with nearly
+every other from San Augustine southward."
+
+Simple historic facts.  I quote them as illustrating the events that
+ushered in the Seminole war.  Barbarous though they be, they were but
+acts of retaliation--the wild outburst of a vengeance long pent up--a
+return for wrongs and insults patiently endured.
+
+As yet, no general engagement had taken place; but marauding parties
+sprang up simultaneously in different places.  Many of those who had
+inflicted outrage upon the Indians were forthwith repaid; and many
+barely escaped with their lives.  Conflagration succeeded conflagration,
+until the whole country was on fire.  Those who lived in the interior,
+or upon the borders of the Indian reserve, were compelled to abandon
+their crops, their stock, their implements of husbandly, their
+furniture, and indeed every article of value, and seek shelter within
+the forts, or concentrate themselves in the neighbouring villages,
+around which stockades were erected for their better security.
+
+The friendly chiefs--the Omatlas and others--with about four hundred
+followers, abandoned their towns, and fled to Fort Brooke for
+protection.
+
+The strife was no longer hypothetical, no longer doubtful; it was
+declared in the wild _Yo-ho-ehee_! that night and day was heard ringing
+in the woods.
+
+
+
+CHAPTER FIFTY.
+
+TRACING A STRANGE HORSEMAN.
+
+As yet but few troops had reached Florida, though detachments were on
+the way from New Orleans, Fort Moultrie, Savannah, Mobile, and other
+depots, where the soldiers of the United States are usually stationed.
+Corps of volunteers, however, were being hastily levied in the larger
+towns of Georgia, Carolina, and Florida itself; and every settlement was
+mustering its quota to enter upon the campaign.
+
+It was deemed advisable to raise a force in the settlements of the
+Suwanee--my native district--and on this duty my friend Gallagher was
+dispatched, with myself to act as his lieutenant.
+
+Right gladly did I receive this order.  I should escape from the
+monotonous duties of the fort garrison, of which I had grown weary
+enough; but what was a still more pleasant prospect, I should have many
+days at home--for which I was not without longing.
+
+Gallagher was as overjoyed as myself.  He was a keen sportsman; though,
+having spent most of his life within the walls of cities, or in forts
+along the Atlantic seaboard, he had found only rare opportunities of
+enjoying either the "fox-chase" or "deer-drive."  I had promised him
+both to his heart's content, for both the game and the "vermin" were
+plenteous in the woods of the Suwanee.
+
+Not unwillingly, therefore, did we accept our recruiting commission;
+and, bidding adieu to our companions at the fort, set out with light
+hearts and pleasant anticipations.  Equally joyous was Black Jake to get
+back once more to the "ole plantayshun."
+
+In the quarter of the Suwanee settlements, the Indian marauders had not
+yet shown themselves.  It lay remote from the towns of most of the
+hostile tribes, though not too distant for a determined foray.  In a
+sort of lethargic security, the inhabitants still remained at their
+houses--though a volunteer force had already been mustered--and patrols
+were kept in constant motion.
+
+I had frequent letters from my mother and Virginia; neither appeared to
+feel any alarm: my sister especially declared her confidence that the
+Indians would not molest them.
+
+Withal, I was not without apprehension; and with so much the greater
+alacrity did I obey the order to proceed to the settlements.
+
+Well mounted, we soon galloped over the forest road, and approached the
+scenes of my early life.  This time, I encountered no ambuscade, though
+I did not travel without caution.  But the order had been given us
+within the hour; and having almost immediately set forth, my
+assassin-enemies could have had no warning of my movements.  With the
+brave Gallagher by my side, and my stout henchman at my back, I dreaded
+no open attack from white men.
+
+My only fear was, that we might fall in with some straggling party of
+red men--now our declared enemies.  In this there was a real danger; and
+we took every precaution to avoid such an encounter.
+
+At several places we saw traces of the Indians nearly fresh.  There were
+moccasin prints, in the mud, and the tracks of horses that had been
+mounted.  At one place we observed the debris of a fire still
+smouldering, and around it were signs of the red men.  A party had there
+bivouacked.
+
+But we saw no man, red or white, until we had passed the deserted
+plantation upon the creek, and were approaching the banks of the river.
+Then for the first time during our journey a man was in sight.
+
+He was a horseman, and at a glance we pronounced him an Indian.  He was
+at too great a distance for us to note either his complexion or
+features; but the style of dress, his attitude in the saddle, the red
+sash and leggings, and above all, the ostrich-plumes waving over his
+head, told us he was a Seminole.  He was mounted upon a large black
+horse; and had just emerged from the wood into the opening, upon which
+we had ourselves entered.  He appeared to see us at the same time we
+caught sight of him, and was evidently desirous of avoiding us.
+
+After scanning us a moment, he wheeled his steed, and dashed back into
+the timber.
+
+Imprudently enough, Gallagher put spurs to his horse and galloped after.
+I should have counselled a contrary course; but that the belief was in
+my mind that the horseman was Osceola.  In that case, there could be no
+danger; and from motives of friendship, I was desirous of coming up with
+the young chief, and exchanging a word with him.  With this view I
+followed my friend at a gallop--Jake coming on in the rear.
+
+I was almost sure the strange horseman was Osceola.  I fancied I
+recognised the ostrich-plumes; and Jake had told me that the young chief
+rode a fine black horse.  In all likelihood, then it was he; and in
+order to hail, and bring him to a halt, I spurred ahead of Gallagher--
+being better mounted.
+
+We soon entered the timber, where the horseman had disappeared.  I saw
+the fresh tracks, but nothing more.  I shouted aloud, calling the young
+chief by name, and pronouncing my own; but there was no reply, save the
+echo of my voice.
+
+I followed the trail for a short distance, continuing to repeat my
+cries; but no heed was given to them.  The horseman did not wish to
+answer my hail, or else had ridden too far away to understand its
+intent.
+
+Of course, unless he made a voluntary halt, it was vain to follow.  We
+might ride on his trail for a week without coming up with him.
+Gallagher saw this as well as myself; and abandoning the pursuit, we
+turned once more towards the road, with the prospect of soon ending our
+journey.
+
+A cross-path, which I remembered, would bring us by a shorter route to
+the landing; and for this we now headed.
+
+We had not ridden far, when we again struck upon the tracks of a horse--
+evidently those made by the horseman we had just pursued, but previously
+to our having seen him.  They led in a direct line from the river,
+towards which we were steering.
+
+Some slight thought prompted me to an examination of the hoof-prints.  I
+perceived that they were _wet_--water was oozing into them from the
+edges; there was a slight sprinkling of water upon the dead leaves that
+lay along the trail.  The horseman had been swimming--he had been across
+the river!
+
+This discovery led me into a train of reflection.  What could he--an
+Indian--want on the other side?  If Osceola, as I still believed, what
+could _he_ be doing there?  In the excited state of the country, it
+would have been risking his life for an Indian to have approached the
+settlement--and to have been discovered and captured would have been
+certain death.  This Indian, then, whoever he was, must have some
+powerful-motive for seeking the other side.  What motive?  If Osceola,
+what motive?
+
+I was puzzled--and reflected; I could think of no motive, unless that
+the young chief had been playing the spy--no dishonourable act on the
+part of an Indian.
+
+The supposition was not improbable, but the contrary; and yet I could
+not bring myself to believe it true.  A cloud had swept suddenly over my
+soul, a presentiment scarcely defined or definable was in my thoughts, a
+demon seemed to whisper in my ears: _It is not that_.
+
+Certainly had the horseman been across the river?  Let us see!
+
+We rode rapidly along the trail, tracing it backwards.
+
+In a few minutes it guided us to the bank, where the tracks led out from
+the water's edge.  No corresponding trail entered near.  Yes, he had
+been across.
+
+I plied the spur, and plunging in, swam for the opposite shore.  My
+companion followed without asking any questions.
+
+Once more out of the river, I rode up the bank.  I soon discovered the
+hoof-marks of the black horse where he had sprung off into the stream.
+
+Without pausing, I continued to trace them backwards, still followed by
+Gallagher and Jake.
+
+The former wondered at my eagerness, and put some questions, which I
+scarcely answered coherently.  My presentiment was each moment growing
+darker--my heart throbbed in my bosom with a strange indescribable pain.
+
+The trail brought us to a small opening in the heart of a magnolia
+grove.  It went no further.  We had arrived at its end.
+
+My eyes rested upon the ground with a sort of mechanical gaze.  I sat in
+the saddle in a kind of stupor.  The dark presentiment was gone, but a
+far darker thought occupied its place.
+
+The ground was covered with hoof-tracks, as if horses had been halted
+there.  Most of the tracks were those of the black horse; but there were
+others of not half their dimensions.  There was the tiny shoe-mark of a
+small pony.
+
+"Golly!  Mass'r George," muttered Jake, coming forward in advance of the
+other, and bending his eyes upon the ground; "lookee dar--dat am tha
+track ob de leetle White Fox.  Missa Vaginny's been hya for sartin."
+
+
+
+CHAPTER FIFTY ONE.
+
+WHO WAS THE RIDER?
+
+I felt faint enough to have reeled from the saddle; but the necessity of
+concealing the thoughts that were passing within me, kept me firm.
+There are suspicions that even a bosom friend may not share; and mine
+were of this character, if suspicions they could be called.  Unhappily,
+they approached the nature of convictions.
+
+I saw that Gallagher was mystified; not, as I supposed, by the tracks
+upon the ground, but by my behaviour in regard to them.  He had observed
+my excited manner on taking up the trail, and while following it; he
+could not have failed to do so; and now, on reaching the glade, he
+looked upon a pallid face, and lips quivering with emotions to him
+unintelligible.
+
+"What is it, Geordie, my boy?  Do you think the ridskin has been after
+some dhirty game?  Playing the spy on your plantation, eh?"
+
+The question aided me in my dilemma.  It suggested a reply which I did
+not believe to be the truth.
+
+"Likely enough," I answered, without displaying any embarrassment; "an
+Indian spy, I have no doubt of it; and evidently in communication with
+some of the negroes, since this is the track of a pony that belongs to
+the plantation.  Some of them have ridden thus far to meet him; though
+for what purpose it is difficult to guess."
+
+"Massa George," spoke out my black follower, "dar's no one ebber ride da
+White Fox, 'ceptin'--"
+
+"Jake!"  I shouted, sharply interrupting him, "gallop forward to the
+house, and tell them we are coming.  Quick, my man!"
+
+My command was too positive to be obeyed with hesitation; and, without
+finishing his speech, the black put spurs to his cob, and rode rapidly
+past us.
+
+It was a manoeuvre of mere precaution.  But the moment before, I had no
+thought of dispatching an _avant courier_ to announce us.  I knew what
+the simple fellow was about to say: "No one ebber ride da White Fox,
+'ceptin' Missa Vaginny;" and I had adopted this ruse to stifle his
+speech.
+
+I glanced towards my companion, after Jake had passed out of sight.  He
+was a man of open heart and free of tongue, with not one particle of the
+secretive principle in his nature.  His fine florid face was seldom
+marked by a line of suspicion; but I observed that it now wore a puzzled
+expression, and I felt uneasy.  No remark, however, was made by either
+of us; and turning into the path which Jake had taken, we rode forward.
+
+The path was a cattle-track--too narrow to admit of our riding abreast;
+and Gallagher permitting me to act as pilot, drew his horse into the
+rear.  In this way we moved silently onward.
+
+I had no need to direct my horse.  It was an old road to him: he knew
+where he was going.  I took no heed of him, but left him to stride
+forward at his will.
+
+I scarcely looked at the path--once or twice only--and then I saw the
+tracks of the pony--backward and forward; but I heeded them no more; I
+knew whence and whither they led.
+
+I was too much occupied with thoughts within, to notice aught without or
+around me.
+
+Could it have been any other than Virginia?  Who else?  It was true what
+Jake had intended to say--that no one except my sister ever rode "White
+Fox"--no one upon the plantation being permitted to mount this favourite
+miniature of a steed.
+
+Yes--there was an exception.  I had seen Viola upon him.  Perhaps Jake
+would have added this exception, had I allowed him to finish his speech.
+Might it have been Viola?
+
+But what could be her purpose in meeting the Seminole chief? for that
+the person who rode the pony had held an interview with the latter,
+there could not be the shadow of a doubt; the tracks told that clearly
+enough.
+
+What motive could have moved the quadroon to such a meeting?  Surely
+none.  Not surely, either; how could _I_ say so?  I had been long
+absent; many strange events had transpired in my absence--many changes.
+How could I tell but that Viola had grown "tired" of her sable
+sweetheart, and looked kindly upon the dashing chieftain?  No doubt
+there had been many opportunities for her seeing the latter; for, after
+my departure for the north, several years had elapsed before the
+expulsion of the Powells from their plantation.  And now, that I thought
+of it, I remembered something--a trifling circumstance that had occurred
+on that very day when young Powell first appeared among us: Viola had
+expressed admiration of the handsome youth.  I remembered that this had
+made Black Jake very angry; that my sister, too, had been angry, and
+scolded Viola, as I thought at the time, for mortifying her faithful
+lover.  Viola was a beauty, and like most beauties, a coquette.  My
+conjecture might be right.  It was pleasant to think so; but, alas, poor
+Jake!
+
+Another slight circumstance tended to confirm this view.  I had observed
+of late a change in my henchman; he was certainly not as cheerful as of
+yore; he appeared more reflective--serious--dull.
+
+God grant that this might be the explanation!
+
+There was another conjecture that offered me a hope; one that, if true,
+would have satisfied me still better, for I had a strong feeling of
+friendship for Black Jake.
+
+The other hypothesis was simply what Gallagher had already suggested--
+although White Fox was not allowed to be ridden, some of the people
+might have _stolen him for a ride_.  It was possible, and not without
+probability.  There might be disaffected slaves on our plantation--there
+were on almost every other--who were in communication with hostile
+Indians.  The place was more than a mile from the house.  Riding would
+be pleasanter than walking; and taking the pony from its pastures might
+be easily accomplished, without fear of observation.  A great black
+negro may have been the rider after all.  God grant that _this_ might be
+the true explanation!
+
+The mental prayer had scarcely passed my thoughts, when an object came
+under my eyes, that swept my theories to the wind, sending a fresh pang
+through my heart.
+
+A locust tree grew by the side of the path, with its branches extending
+partially across.  A strip of ribbon had caught on one of the spines,
+and was waving in the breeze.  It was silk, and of fine texture--a bit
+of the trimming of a lady's dress torn off by the thorn.
+
+To me it was a sad token.  My fabric of hopeful fancies fell into ruin
+at the sight.  No negro--not even Viola--could have left such evidence
+as that; and I shuddered as I spurred past the fluttering relic.
+
+I was in hopes my companion would not observe it; but he did.  It was
+too conspicuous to be passed without notice.  As I glanced back over my
+shoulder, I saw him reach out his arm, snatch the fragment from the
+branch, and gaze upon it with a puzzled and inquiring look.
+
+Fearing he might ride up and question me, I spurred my horse into a
+rapid gallop, at the same time calling to him to follow.
+
+Ten minutes after, we entered the lawn and pulled up in front of the
+house.  My mother and sister had come out into the verandah to receive
+us; and we were greeted with words of welcome.
+
+But I heard, or heeded them not; my gaze was riveted on Virginia--upon
+her dress.  It was a _riding-habit_: the plumed chapeau was still upon
+her head!
+
+My beautiful sister--never seemed she more beautiful than at that
+moment; her cheeks were crimsoned with the wind, her golden tresses
+hanging over them.  But it joyed me not to see her so fair: in my eyes,
+she appeared a fallen angel.
+
+I glanced at Gallagher as I tottered out of my saddle: I saw that he
+comprehended all.  Nay, more--his countenance wore an expression
+indicative of great mental suffering, apparently as acute as my own.  My
+friend he was--tried and true; he had observed my anguish--he now
+guessed the cause; and his look betokened the deep sympathy with which
+my misfortune inspired him.
+
+
+
+CHAPTER FIFTY TWO.
+
+COLD COURTESY.
+
+I received my mother's embrace with filial warmth; my sister's in
+silence--almost with coldness.  My mother noticed this, and wondered.
+Gallagher also shewed reserve in his greeting of Virginia; and neither
+did this pass unobserved.
+
+Of the four, my sister was the least embarrassed; she was not
+embarrassed at all.  On the contrary, her lips moved freely, and her
+eyes sparkled with a cheerful expression, as if really joyed by our
+arrival.
+
+"You have been on horseback, sister?"  I said, in a tone that affected
+indifference as to the reply.
+
+"Say, rather, pony-back.  My little Foxey scarcely deserves the proud
+title of horse.  Yes, I have been out for an airing."
+
+"Alone?"
+
+"Quite alone--_solus bolus_, as the black people have it."
+
+"Is it prudent, sister?"
+
+"Why not?  I often do it.  What have I to fear?  The wolves and panthers
+are hunted out, and White Fox is too swift either for a bear or an
+alligator."
+
+"There are creatures to be encountered in the woods more dangerous than
+wild beasts."
+
+I watched her countenance as I made the remark, but I saw not the
+slightest change.
+
+"What creatures, George?" she asked in a drawling tone, imitating that
+in which I had spoken.
+
+"Redskins--Indians," I answered abruptly.
+
+"Nonsense, brother; there are no Indians in this neighbourhood--at
+least," added she with marked hesitation, "none that _we_ need fear.
+Did I not write to tell you so?  You are fresh from the hostile ground,
+where I suppose there is an Indian in every bush; but remember, Geordy,
+you have travelled a long way, and unless you have brought the savages
+with you, you will find none here.  So, gentlemen, you may go to sleep
+to-night without fear of being awakened by the _Yo-ho-ehee_."
+
+"Is that so certain, Miss Randolph?" inquired Gallagher, now joining in
+the conversation, and no longer "broguing" it.  "Your brother and I have
+reason to believe that some, who have already raised the war-cry, are
+not so far off from the settlements of the Suwanee."
+
+"_Miss_ Randolph!  Ha, ha, ha!  Why _Mister_ Gallagher, where did you
+learn that respectful appellative?  It is so distant you must have
+fetched it a long way.  _It_ used to be Virginia, and Virgine, and
+Virginny, and simple 'Gin--for which last I could have spitted you,
+_Mister_ Gallagher, and would, had you not given up calling me so.
+What's the matter?  It is just three months since we--that is, you and
+I, Mister Gallagher--met last; and scarcely two since Geordy and I
+parted; and now you are both here--one talking as solemnly as Solon, the
+other as soberly as Socrates!  George, I presume, after another spell of
+absence, will be styling me _Miss_ Randolph--I suppose that's the
+fashion at the fort.  Come, fellows," she added, striking the balustrade
+with her whip, "your minds and your mouths, and give me the reason of
+this wonderful `transmogrification,' for by my word, you shall not eat
+till you do!"
+
+The relation in which Gallagher stood to my sister requires a little
+explanation.  He was not new either to her or my mother.  During their
+sojourn in the north, he had met them both; but the former often.  As my
+almost constant companion, he had ample opportunity of becoming
+acquainted with Virginia; and he had, in reality, grown well acquainted
+with her.  They met on the most familiar terms--even to using the
+diminutives of each other's names; and I could understand why my sister
+regarded "Miss Randolph" as a rather distant mode of address; but I
+understood, also, why he had thus addressed her.
+
+There was a period when I believed my friend in love with Virginia; that
+was shortly after their introduction to each other.  But as time wore
+on, I ceased to have this belief.  Their behaviour was not that of
+lovers--at least, according to my notion.  They were too _friendly_ to
+be in love.  They used to romp together, and read comic books, and
+laugh, and chatter by the hour about trivial things, and call each other
+jack-names, and the like.  In fact, it was a rare thing to hear them
+either talk or act soberly when in each other's company.  All this was
+so different from my ideas of how two lovers _would_ act--so different
+from the way in which _I_ should have acted--that I gave up the fancy I
+had held, and afterwards regarded them as two beings whose characters
+had a certain correspondence, and whose hearts were in unison for
+friendship, but not for love.
+
+One other circumstance confirmed me in this belief: I observed that my
+sister, during Gallagher's absence, had little relish for gaiety, which
+had been rather a characteristic of her girlish days; but the moment the
+latter would make his appearance, a sadden change would come over her,
+and she would enter with _abandon_ into all the idle bagatelle of the
+hour.
+
+Love, thought I, does not so exhibit itself.  If there was one in whom
+she felt a heart-interest, it was not he who was present.  No--Gallagher
+was not the man; and the play that passed between them was but the fond
+familiarity of two persons who esteemed each other, without a spark of
+love being mixed up in the affection.
+
+The dark suspicion that now rested upon his mind, as upon my own, had
+evidently saddened him--not from any feeling of jealousy, but out of
+pure friendly sympathy for me--perhaps, too, for her.  His bearing
+towards her, though within the rules of the most perfect politeness,
+_was_ changed--much changed; no wonder she took notice of it--no wonder
+she called for an explanation.
+
+"Quick!" cried she, cutting the vine-leaves with her whip.  "Is it a
+travesty, or are you in earnest?  Unbosom yourselves both, or I keep my
+vow--you shall have no dinner.  I shall myself go to the kitchen, and
+countermand it."
+
+Despite the gloomy thoughts passing within, her manner and the odd
+menace compelled Gallagher to break into laughter--though his laugh was
+far short of the hearty cachinnation she had been accustomed to hear
+from him.
+
+I was myself forced to smile; and, seeing the necessity of smothering my
+emotions, I stammered forth what might pass for an explanation.  It was
+not the time for the true one.
+
+"Verily, sister," said I, "we are too tired for mirth, and too hungry as
+well.  Consider how far we have ridden, and under a broiling sun!
+Neither of us has tasted a morsel since leaving the fort, and our
+breakfast there was none of the most sumptuous--corncakes and weak
+coffee, with pickled pork.  How I long for some of Aunt Sheba's Virginia
+biscuits and `chicken fixings.'  Pray, let us have our dinner, and then
+you shall see a change in us!  We shall both be as merry as sand-boys
+after it."
+
+Satisfied with this explanation, or affecting to be so--for her response
+was a promise to let us have our dinner--accompanied by a cheerful
+laugh--my sister retired to make the necessary change in her costume,
+while my friend and I were shown to our separate apartments.
+
+------------------------------------------------------------------------
+
+At dinner, and afterwards, I did my utmost to counterfeit ease--to
+appear happy and cheerful.  I noticed that Gallagher was enacting a
+similar _metier_.
+
+Perhaps this seeming may have deceived my mother, but not Virginia.  Ere
+many hours had passed, I observed signs of suspicion--directed equally
+against Gallagher as myself.  She suspected that all was not right, and
+began to show pique--almost spitefulness--in her conversation with us
+both.
+
+
+
+CHAPTER FIFTY THREE.
+
+MY SISTER'S SPIRIT.
+
+For the remainder of that day and throughout the next, this
+unsatisfactory state of things continued, during which time the three of
+us--my friend, my sister, and myself--acted under a polite reserve.  It
+was triangular, for I had not made Gallagher my confidant, but left him
+entirely to his conjectures.  He was a true gentleman; and never even
+hinted at what he must have well-known was engrossing the whole of my
+thoughts.  It was my intention to unbosom myself to him, and seek his
+friendly advice, but not until a little time had elapsed--not till I had
+obtained a full _eclaircissement_ from Virginia.
+
+I waited for an opportunity to effect this.  Not but that many a one
+offered--many a time might I have found her alone; but, on each
+occasion, my resolution forsook me.  I actually dreaded to bring her to
+a confession.
+
+And yet I felt that it was my duty.  As her brother--the nearest male
+relative, it was mine to guard her honour--to preserve the family
+escutcheon pure and untarnished.
+
+For days was I restrained from this fraternal duty--partly through a
+natural feeling of delicacy--partly from a fear of the disclosure I
+might draw forth.  I dreaded to know the truth.  That a correspondence
+had passed between my sister and the Indian chief--that it was in all
+probability still going on--that a clandestine meeting had taken place--
+more than one, mayhap--all this I knew well enough.  But to what length
+had these proceedings been carried?  How far had my poor sister
+compromised herself?  These were the interrogatories to which I dreaded
+the answer.
+
+I believed she would tell me the truth--that is, if entreated; if
+commanded, _no_.
+
+Of the last, I felt satisfied.  I knew her proud spirit--prouder of
+late.  When roused to hostility, she could be capable of the most
+obstinate resistance--firm and unyielding.  There was much of my
+mother's nature in her, and little of my father's.  Personally, as
+already stated, she resembled her mother; intellectually, there was also
+a similitude.  She was one of those women--for she now deserved the
+title--who have never known the restraint of a severe discipline, and
+who grow up in the belief that they have no superior, no master upon
+earth.  Hence the full development of a feeling of perfect independence,
+which, among American women, is common enough, but, in other lands, can
+only exist among those of the privileged classes.  Uncontrolled by
+parent, guardian, or teacher--for this last had not been allowed to
+"rule by the rod"--my sister had grown to the age of womanhood, and she
+felt herself as masterless as a queen upon her throne.
+
+She was independent in another sense--one which exerts a large influence
+over the freedom of the spirit--her fortune was her own.
+
+In the States of America, the law of entail is not allowed; it is even
+provided against by statute.  Those statesmen presidents who in long
+line succeeded the Father of the Republic, were wise legislators.  They
+saw lurking under this wicked law--which, at most, appears only to
+affect the family relations--the strong arm of the political tyrant;
+and, therefore, took measures to guard against its introduction to the
+land.  Wisely did they act, as time will show, or, indeed, has shown
+already; for had the congress of Washington's day but sanctioned the law
+of entail, the great American republic would long since have passed into
+an oligarchy.
+
+Untrammelled by any such unnatural statute, my father had acted as all
+men of proper feeling are likely to do; he had followed the dictates of
+the heart, and divided his property in equal shares between his
+children.  So far as independence of fortune went, my sister was my
+equal.
+
+Of course, our mother had not been left unprovided for, but the bulk of
+the patrimonial estate now belonged to Virginia and myself.
+
+My sister, then, was an heiress--quite independent of either mother or
+brother--bound by no authority to either, except that which exists in
+the ties of the heart--in filial and sororal affection.
+
+I have been minute with these circumstances, in order to explain the
+delicate duty I had to perform, in calling my sister to an account.
+
+Strange that I reflected not on my own anomalous position.  At that
+hour, it never entered my thoughts.  Here was I affianced to the sister
+of this very man, with the sincere intention of making her my wife.
+
+I could perceive nothing unnatural, nothing disgraceful in the
+alliance--neither would society.  Such, in earlier times, had done
+honour to Rolfe, who had mated with a maiden of darker skin, less
+beauty, and far slighter accomplishments than Maumee.  In later days,
+hundreds of others had followed his example, without the loss either of
+_caste_ or character; and why should not I?  In truth, the question had
+never occurred to me, for it never entered my thoughts that my purpose
+in regard to _my_ Indian _fiancee_ was otherwise than perfectly _en
+regle_.
+
+It would have been different had there been a taint of _African blood_
+in the veins of my intended.  Then, indeed, might I have dreaded the
+frowns of society--for in America it is not the colour of the skin that
+condemns, but the blood--the blood.  The white gentleman may marry an
+Indian wife; she may enter society without protest--if beautiful, become
+a belle.
+
+All this I knew, while, at the same time, I was slave to a belief in the
+monstrous anomaly that where the blood is mingled from the other side--
+where the woman is white and the man red--the union becomes a
+_mesalliance_, a disgrace.  By the friends of the former, such a union
+is regarded as a misfortune--a fall; and when the woman chances to be a
+_lady_--ah! then, indeed--
+
+Little regard as I had for many of my country's prejudices, regarding
+race and colour, I was not free from the influence of this social maxim.
+To believe my sister in love with an Indian, would be to regard her as
+lost--fallen!  No matter how high in rank among his own people--no
+matter how brave--how accomplished he might be--no matter if it were
+Osceola himself!
+
+
+
+CHAPTER FIFTY FOUR.
+
+ASKING AN EXPLANATION.
+
+Suspense was preying upon me; I could endure it no longer.  I at length
+resolved upon demanding an explanation from my sister, as soon as I
+should find her alone.
+
+The opportunity soon offered.  I chanced to see her in the lawn, down
+near the edge of the lake.  I saw that she was in a mood unusually
+cheerful.
+
+"Alas!" thought I, as I approached full of my resolutions--"these
+smiles!  I shall soon change them to tears.  Sister."
+
+She was talking to her pets, and did not hear me, or pretended she did
+not.
+
+"Sister!"  I repeated, in a louder voice.
+
+"Well, what is it?" she inquired, drily, without looking up.
+
+"Pray, Virginia, leave off your play, and talk to me."
+
+"Certainly, that is an inducement.  I have had so little of your tongue
+of late, that I ought to feel gratified by your proposal.  Why don't you
+bring your friend, and let him try a little in that line too.  You have
+been playing double dummy long enough to get tired of it, I should
+think.  But go on with the game, if it please you; it don't trouble me,
+I assure you.
+
+  "A Yankee ship and a Yankee crew,
+  Tally high ho, you know!
+  Won't strike to the foe while the sky it is blue,
+  And a tar's aloft or alow.
+
+"Come now, little Fan!  Fan! don't go too near the bank, or you may get
+a ducking, do you hear?"
+
+"Pray, sister Virginia, give over this badinage: I have something of
+importance to say to you."
+
+"Importance!  What! are you going to get married?  No, that can't be
+it--your face is too portentous and lugubrious; you look more like one
+on the road to be hanged--ha, ha, ha!"
+
+"I tell you, sister, I am in earnest."
+
+"Who said you wasn't?  In earnest?  I believe you, my boy."
+
+"Listen to me, Virginia.  I have something important--very important to
+talk about.  I have been desirous of breaking the subject to you ever
+since my return."
+
+"Well, why did you not? you have had opportunities enough.  Have I been
+hid from you?"
+
+"No--but--the fact is--"
+
+"Go on, brother; you have an opportunity now.  If it be a petition, as
+your looks appear to say, present it; I am ready to receive it."
+
+"Nay, Virginia; it is not that.  The subject upon which I wish to
+speak--"
+
+"What subject, man?  Out with it!"
+
+I was weary with so much circumlocution, and a little piqued as well; I
+resolved to bring it to an end.  A word, thought I, will tame down her
+tone, and render her as serious as myself, I answered:
+
+"Osceola."
+
+I looked to see her start, to see her cheek turn alternately red and
+pale; but to my astonishment no such symptoms displayed themselves; not
+the slightest indication of any extraordinary emotion betrayed itself
+either in her look or manner.
+
+She replied almost directly and without hesitation:
+
+"What! the young chief of the Seminoles? our old playfellow, Powell?  He
+is to be the subject of our discourse?  You could not have chosen one
+more interesting to _me_.  I could talk all day long about this brave
+fellow!"
+
+I was struck dumb by her reply, and scarcely knew in what way to
+proceed.
+
+"But what of him, brother George?" continued my sister, looking me more
+soberly in the face.  "I hope no harm has befallen him?"
+
+"None that I know of: the harm has fallen upon those nearer and dearer."
+
+"I do not understand you, my mysterious brother."
+
+"But you shall.  I am about to put a question to you--answer me, and
+answer me truly, as you value my love and friendship."
+
+"Your question, sir, without these insinuations.  I can speak the truth,
+I fancy, without being scared by threats."
+
+"Then speak it, Virginia.  Tell me, is Powell--is Osceola--your lover?"
+
+"Ha, ha, ha, ha, ha, ha!"
+
+"Nay, Virginia, this is no laughing matter."
+
+"By my faith, I think it is--a very capital joke--ha, ha, ha!"
+
+"I want no trifling, Virginia; an answer."
+
+"You shall get no answer to such an absurd question."
+
+"It is not absurd.  I have good reasons for putting it."
+
+"Reasons--state them, pray!"
+
+"You cannot deny that something has passed between you?  You cannot deny
+that you have given him a meeting, and in the forest too?  Beware how
+you make answer, for I have the proofs.  We encountered the chief on his
+return.  We saw him at a distance.  He shunned us--no wonder.  We
+followed his trail--we saw the tracks of the pony--oh! you met: it was
+all clear enough."
+
+"Ha, ha, ha!  What a pair of keen trackers--you and your friend--astute
+fellows!  You will be invaluable on the warpath.  You will be promoted
+to be chief spies to the army.  Ha, ha, ha!  And so, this is the grand
+secret, is it? this accounts for the demure looks, and the odd-fashioned
+airs that have been puzzling me.  My honour, eh? that was the care that
+was cankering you.  By Diana!  I have reason to be thankful for being
+blessed with such a chivalric brace of guardians.
+
+  "In England, the garden of beauty is kept
+  By the dragon of prudery, placed within call;
+  But so oft this unamiable dragon has slept,
+  That the garden was carelessly watched after all.
+
+"And so if, I have not the dragon prudery to guard me, I am to find a
+brace of dragons in my brother and his friend.  Ha, ha, ha!"
+
+"Virginia, you madden me--this is no answer.  Did you meet Osceola?"
+
+"I'll answer that directly: after such sharp espionage, denial would not
+avail me.  I _did_ meet him."
+
+"And for what purpose?  Did you meet as lovers?"
+
+"That question is impertinent; I won't answer _it_."
+
+"Virginia!  I implore you--"
+
+"And cannot two people encounter each other in the woods, without being
+charged with love-making?  Might we not have come together by chance? or
+might I not have had other business with the Seminole chief?  You do not
+know all my secrets, nor do I intend you shall either."
+
+"Oh, it was no chance encounter--it was an appointment--a love-meeting:
+you could have had no other affair with _him_."
+
+"It is natural for you to think so--very natural, since I hear you
+practise such _duettos_ yourself.  How long, may I ask, since you held
+your last _tete-a-tete_ with your own fair charmer--the lovely Maumee?
+Eh! brother?"
+
+I started as if stung.  How could my sister have gained intelligence of
+this?  Was she only guessing? and had chanced upon the truth?
+
+For some moments I could not make reply, nor did I make any to her last
+interrogatory.  I paid no heed to it, but, becoming excited, pressed my
+former inquiries with vehemence.
+
+"Sister!  I must have an explanation; I insist upon it--I demand it!"
+
+"Demand!  Ho! that is your tone, is it?  That will scarcely serve you.
+A moment ago, when you put yourself in the imploring attitude, I had
+well-nigh taken pity on you, and told you all.  But, _demand_, indeed!
+I answer no demands; and to show you that I do not, I shall now go and
+shut myself in my room.  So, my good fellow, you shall see no more of me
+for this day, nor to-morrow either, unless you come to your senses.
+Good-by, Geordy--and _au revoir_, only on condition you behave yourself
+like a gentleman.
+
+"A Yankee ship and a Yankee crew, Tally high ho, you know!  Won't strike
+to the foe, etc, etc."
+
+And with this catch pealing from her lips, she passed across the
+parterre, entered the verandah, and disappeared within the doorway.
+
+Disappointed, mortified, sad, I stood riveted to the spot, scarcely
+knowing in what direction to turn myself.
+
+
+
+CHAPTER FIFTY FIVE.
+
+THE VOLUNTEERS.
+
+My sister kept her word.  I saw no more of her for that day, nor until
+noon of the next.  Then she came forth from her chamber in full riding
+costume, ordered White Fox to be saddled, and mounting, rode off alone.
+
+I felt that I had no power over this capricious spirit.  It was idle to
+attempt controlling it.  She was beyond the dictation of fraternal
+authority--her own mistress--and evidently determined upon having her
+will and her way.
+
+After the conversation of yesterday, I felt no inclination to interfere
+again.  She was acquainted with my secret; and knowing this, any counsel
+from me would come with an ill grace, and be as ill received.  I
+resolved, therefore, to withhold it, till some crisis should arrive that
+would render it more impressive.
+
+For several days this coolness continued between us--at which my mother
+often wondered, but of which she received no explanation.  Indeed, I
+fancied that even _her_ affection towards me was not so tender as it
+used to be.  Perhaps I was wronging her.  She was a little angry with me
+about the duel with Ringgold, the first intelligence of which had
+gravely affected her.  On my return I had received her reproaches, for
+it was believed that I alone was to blame in bringing the affair about.
+"Why had I acted so rudely towards Arens Ringgold?  And all about
+nothing?  A trumpery Indian belle?  What mattered it to me what may have
+been said about the girl?  Likely what was said was nothing more than
+the truth.  I should have behaved with more prudence."
+
+I perceived that my mother had been informed upon most of the material
+points connected with the affair.  Of one, however, she was ignorant:
+she knew not who the "trumpery Indian belle" was--she had not heard the
+name of Maumee.  Knowing her to be ignorant of this, I listened with
+more calmness to the aspersive remarks.
+
+For all that, I was somewhat excited by her reproaches, and several
+times upon the point of declaring to her the true cause why I had called
+Ringgold to an account.  For certain reasons I forbore.  My mother would
+not have believed me.
+
+As for Ringgold himself, I ascertained that a great change in his
+fortunes had lately taken place.  His father was dead--had died in a fit
+of passion, whilst in the act of chastising one of his slaves.  A
+blood-vessel had burst, and he had fallen, as if by a judgment of God.
+
+Arens, the only son, was now master of his vast, ill-gotten wealth--a
+plantation with some three hundred slaves upon it; and it was said that
+this had only made him more avaricious than ever.
+
+His aim was--as it had been that of the older Ringgold--to become owner
+of everybody and everything around him--a grand money-despot.  The son
+was a fit successor to the father.
+
+He had played the invalid for a while--carrying his arm in a sling--and,
+as people said, not a little vain of having been engaged in a duel.
+Those who understood how that affair had terminated, thought he had
+little reason to be proud of it.
+
+It seemed the hostility between him and myself had brought about no
+change in his relations with our family.  I learned that he had been a
+constant visitor at the house; and the world still believed him the
+accepted suitor of Virginia.  Moreover, since his late accession to
+wealth and power, he had grown more than ever a favourite with my
+ambitious mother.  I learned all this with regret.
+
+The old home appeared to have undergone a change.  There was not the
+same warmth of affection as of yore.  I missed my kind, noble father.
+My mother at times appeared cold and distant, as if she believed me
+undutiful.  My uncle was her brother, and like her in everything; even
+my fond sister seemed for the moment estranged.
+
+I began to feel as a stranger in my own house, and, feeling so, stayed
+but little at home.  Most of the day was I abroad, with Gallagher as my
+companion.  Of course, my friend remained our guest during our stay on
+the Suwanee.
+
+Our time was occupied partly with the duties upon which we had been
+commanded, and partly in following the amusement of the chase.  Of
+deer-hunting and fox running we had an abundance; but I did not enjoy it
+as formerly; neither did my companion--ardent sportsman though he was--
+seem to take the delight in it which he had anticipated.
+
+Our military duties were by no means of an arduous nature, and were
+usually over before noon.  Our orders had been, not so much to recruit
+volunteers as to superintend the organisation of those already raised;
+and "muster them into service."  A corps had already advanced some
+length towards formation, having elected its own officers and enrolled
+most of its rank and file.  Our part was to inspect, instruct, and
+govern them.
+
+The little church, near the centre of the settlement, was the
+head-quarters of the corps; and there the drill was daily carried on.
+
+The men were mostly of the poorer class of white settlers--small renting
+planters--and squatters who dwelt along the swamp-edges, and who managed
+to eke out a precarious subsistence partly by the use of their axes, and
+partly from the product of their rifles.  The old hunter Hickman was
+among the number; and what did not much surprise me, I found the
+worthies Spence and Williams enrolled in the corps.  Upon these scamps I
+was determined to keep a watchful eye, and hold them at a wary distance.
+
+Many of the privates were men of a higher class--for the common danger
+had called all kinds into the field.
+
+The officers were usually planters of wealth and influence; though there
+were some who, from the democratic influence of elections, were but ill
+qualified to wear epaulettes.
+
+Many of these gentlemen bore far higher official titles than either
+Gallagher or myself.  Colonels and majors appeared to be almost as
+numerous as privates.  But for all this, they did not demur to our
+exercising authority over them.  In actual war-time, it is not uncommon
+for a lieutenant of the "line," or the lowest subaltern of the regular
+army, to be placed in command of a full colonel of militia or
+volunteers!
+
+Here and there was an odd character, who, perhaps, in earlier life had
+"broken down" at West Point, or had gone through a month of campaigning
+service in the Greek wars, under "Old Hickory."  These, fancying
+themselves _au fait_ in the military art, were not so pleasant to deal
+with; and at times it required all Gallagher's determined firmness to
+convince them that _he_ was commander-in-chief upon the Suwanee.
+
+My friend's reputation as a "fire eater," which had preceded him, had as
+much weight in confirming his authority as the commission which he
+brought with him from "head-quarters."
+
+Upon the whole, we got along smoothly enough with these gentlemen--most
+of whom seemed desirous of learning their duty, and submitted to our
+instructions with cheerfulness.
+
+There was no lack of champagne, brandy, and cigars.  The neighbouring
+planters were hospitable; and had my friend or myself been inclined
+towards dissipation, we could not have been established in better
+quarters for indulging the propensity.
+
+To this, however, neither of us gave way; and our moderation no doubt
+caused us to be held in higher esteem, even among the hard drinkers by
+whom we were surrounded.
+
+Our new life was by no means disagreeable; and but for the
+unpleasantness that had arisen at home, I could have felt for the time
+contented and happy.
+
+At home--at home--there was the canker: it appeared no longer a home.
+
+
+
+CHAPTER FIFTY SIX.
+
+MYSTERIOUS CHANGES.
+
+Not many days had elapsed before I observed a sudden change in the
+conduct of Gallagher; not towards myself or my mother, but in his manner
+towards Virginia.
+
+It was the day after I had held the conversation with her, that I first
+noticed this.  I noticed at the same time that her manner towards him
+was equally altered.
+
+The somewhat frosty politeness that had hitherto been observed between
+them, appeared to have suddenly thawed, and their old genial friendship
+to become reestablished on its former footing.
+
+They now played, and sang, and laughed together, and read, and chattered
+nonsense, as they had been used to do in times past.
+
+"Ah!" thought I, "it is easy for him to forget; he is but a friend, and,
+of course, cannot have the feelings of a brother.  Little matters it to
+him what may be her secret relations, or with whom.  What need he care
+about her improprieties?  She is good company, and her winning way has
+beguiled him from dwelling upon that suspicion, which he must have
+entertained as well as myself.  He has either forgotten, forgiven, or
+else found some explanation of her conduct that seems to satisfy him.
+At all events, _I_ appear to have lost his sympathy, while _she_ has
+regained his confidence and friendship."
+
+I was at first astonished at this new phase in the relations of our
+family circle--afterwards puzzled by it.
+
+I was too proud and piqued to ask Gallagher for an explanation; and, as
+he did not volunteer to give one, I was compelled to abide in ignorance.
+
+I perceived that my mother also regarded this altered behaviour with
+surprise, and also with a feeling of a somewhat different kind--
+suspicion.
+
+I could guess the reason of this.  She fancied that they were growing
+too fond of each other--that, notwithstanding he had no fortune but his
+pay-roll, Virginia might fancy the dashing soldier for a husband.
+
+Of course my mother, having already formed designs as to the disposal of
+her daughter, could not calmly contemplate such a destiny as this.  It
+was natural enough, then, she should look with a jealous eye upon the
+gay confidence that had been established between them.
+
+I should have been glad if I could have shared my mother's suspicions;
+happy if my sister had but fixed her affections there.  My friend would
+have been welcome to call me brother.  Fortuneless though he might be, I
+should have made no opposition to that alliance.
+
+But it never entered my thoughts that there was aught between the two
+but the old rollicking friendship; and love acts not in that style.  So
+far as Captain Gallagher was concerned, I could have given my mother
+assurance that would have quieted her fears.
+
+And yet to a stranger they might have appeared as lovers--almost to any
+one except myself.  They were together half the day and half the night:
+they rode together into the woods, and were sometimes absent for hours
+at a time.  I perceived that my comrade began to care little for _my_
+company, and daily less.  Stranger still, the chase no longer delighted
+him!  As for duty, this he sadly neglected, and had not the "lieutenant"
+been on the ground, I fear the "corps" would have stood little chance of
+instruction.
+
+As days passed on, I fancied that Gallagher began to relapse into a more
+sober method.  He certainly seemed more thoughtful.  This was when my
+sister was out of sight.  It was not the air he had worn after our
+arrival--but very different.
+
+It certainly resembled the bearing of a man in love.  He would start on
+hearing my sister's voice from without--his ear was quick to catch every
+word from her, and his eyes expressed delight whenever she came into the
+room.  Once or twice, I saw him gazing at her with an expression upon
+his countenance that betokened more than friendship.
+
+My old suspicions began to return to me.  After all, he _might_ be in
+love with Virginia?
+
+Certainly, she was fair enough to impress the heart even of this
+adamantine soldier.  Gallagher was no lady's man--had never been known
+to seek conquests over the sex--in fact, felt some awkwardness in their
+company.  My sister seemed the only one before whom he could converse
+with fluency or freedom.
+
+Notwithstanding, and after all, he _might_ be in love!
+
+I should have been pleased to know it, could I only have insured him a
+reciprocity of his passion; but alas! that was not in my power.
+
+I wondered whether _she_ ever thought of him as a lover; but no--she
+could not--not if she was thinking of--
+
+And yet her behaviour towards him was at times of such a character, that
+a stranger to her eccentricities would have fancied she loved him.  Even
+I was mystified by her actions.  She either had some feeling for him,
+beyond that of mere friendship, or made show of it.  If he loved her,
+and she knew it, then her conduct was cruel in the extreme.
+
+I indulged in such speculations, though, only when I could not restrain
+myself from dwelling upon them.  They were unpleasant; at times, even
+painful.
+
+I lived in a maze of doubt, puzzled and perplexed at what was passing
+around me; but at this time there turned up a new chapter in our family
+history, that, in point of mystery, eclipsed all others.  A piece of
+information reached me, that, if true, must sweep all these new-sprung
+theories out my mind.
+
+I learned that my sister was _in love with Arens Ringgold_--in other
+words, that she was "listening to his addresses!"
+
+
+
+CHAPTER FIFTY SEVEN.
+
+MY INFORMANT.
+
+This I had upon the authority of my faithful servant, Black Jake.  Upon
+almost any other testimony, I should have been incredulous; but his was
+unimpeachable.  Negro as he was, his perceptions were keen enough; while
+his earnestness proved that he believed what he said.  He had reasons,
+and he gave them.
+
+I received the strange intelligence in this wise:
+
+I was seated by the bathing-pond, alone, busied with a book, when I
+heard Jake's familiar voice pronouncing my name: "Massr George."
+
+"Well, Jake?"  I responded, without withdrawing my eyes from the page.
+
+"Ise wanted all da mornin to git you 'lone by yarself; Ise want to hab a
+leetle bit ob a convasayshun, Massr George."
+
+The solemn tone, so unusual in the voice of Jake, awoke my attention.
+Mechanically closing the book, I looked up in his face: it was solemn as
+his speech.
+
+"A conversation with me, Jake?"
+
+"Ye, massr--dat am if you isn't ingage?"
+
+"Oh, by no means, Jake.  Go on: let me hear what you have to say."
+
+"Poor fellow!" thought I--"he has his sorrows too.  Some complaint about
+Viola.  The wicked coquette is torturing him with jealousy; but what can
+I do?  I cannot _make_ her love him--no.  `One man may lead a horse to
+the water, but forty can't make him drink.'  No; the little jade will
+act as she pleases in spite of any remonstrance on my part.  Well,
+Jake?"
+
+"Wa, Massr George, I doant meself like to intafere in tha 'fairs ob da
+family--daat I doant; but ye see, massr, things am a gwine all wrong--
+all wrong, by golly!"
+
+"In what respect?"
+
+"Ah, massr, dat young lady--dat young lady."
+
+Polite of Jake to call Viola a young lady.
+
+"You think she is deceiving you?"
+
+"More dan me, Massr George--more dan me."
+
+"What a wicked girl!  But perhaps, Jake, you only fancy these things?
+Have you had any proofs of her being unfaithful?  Is there any one in
+particular who is now paying her attentions?"
+
+"Yes, massr; berry partickler--nebber so partickler before--nebber."
+
+"A white man?"
+
+"Gorramighty, Massr George!" exclaimed Jake in a tone of surprise; "you
+do talk kewrious: ob coorse it am a white man.  No odder dan a white man
+dar shew 'tention to tha young lady."
+
+I could not help smiling.  Considering Jake's own complexion, he
+appeared to hold very exalted views of the unapproachableness of his
+charmer by those of her own race.  I had once heard him boast that he
+was the "only man ob colour dat could shine _thar_."  It was a white
+man, then, who was making his misery.
+
+"Who is he, Jake?"  I inquired.
+
+"Ah, massr, he am dat ar villain debbil, Arens Ringgol!"
+
+"What!  Arens Ringgold?--he making love to Viola!"
+
+"Viola!  Gorramighty, Massr George!" exclaimed the black, staring till
+his eyes shewed only the whites--"Viola!  Gorramighty, I nebber say
+Viola!--nebber!"
+
+"Of whom, then, are you speaking?"
+
+"O massr, did I not say da young lady? dat am tha young Missa--Missa
+Vaginny."
+
+"Oh! my sister you mean.  Poh, poh!  Jake.  That is an old story.  Arens
+Ringgold has been paying his addresses to my sister for many years; but
+with no chance of success.  You needn't trouble yourself about that, my
+faithful friend; there is no danger of their getting married.  She
+doesn't like him, Jake--I wonder who does or could--and even if she did,
+I would not permit it.  But there's no fear, so you may make your mind
+easy on that score."
+
+My harangue seemed not to satisfy the black.  He stood scratching his
+head, as if he had something more to communicate.  I waited for him to
+speak.
+
+"'Scoose me, Massr George, for da freedom, but dar you make mighty big
+mistake.  It am true dar war a time when Missa Vaginny she no care for
+dat ar snake in da grass.  But de times am change: him father--da ole
+thief--he am gone to tha udda world? tha young un he now rich--he big
+planter--tha biggest on da ribber: ole missa she 'courage him come see
+Missa Vaginny--'cause he rich, he good spec."
+
+"I know all that, Jake: my mother always wished it; but that signifies
+nothing--my sister is a little self-willed, and will be certain to have
+her own way.  There is no fear of her giving her consent to marry, Arens
+Ringgold."
+
+"'Scoose me, Massr George, scoose me 'gain--I tell you, massr, you make
+mistake: she a'most consent now."
+
+"Why, what has put this notion into your head, my good fellow?"
+
+"Viola, massr.  Dat ere quadroon tell me all."
+
+"So, you are friends with Viola again?"
+
+"Ye, Massr George, we good friend as ebber.  'Twar only my s'picion--I
+wor wrong.  She good gal--she true as de rifle.  No more s'picion o'
+her, on de part ob Jake--no."
+
+"I am glad of that.  But pray, what has she told you about Arens
+Ringgold and my sister?"
+
+"She tell me all: she see somethin' ebbery day."
+
+"Every day!  Why, it is many days since Arens Ringgold has visited
+here?"
+
+"No, massr; dar you am mistake 'gain: Mass Arens he come to da house
+ebbery day--a'most ebbery day."
+
+"Nonsense; I never saw him here.  I never heard of his having been,
+since my return from the fort."
+
+"But him hab been, for all dat, massr; I see him meseff.  He come when
+you gone out.  He be here when we goes a huntin'.  I see um come
+yest'day, when you any Mass Garger wor away to tha volunteers--dat he
+war sat'n."
+
+"You astonish me."
+
+"Dat's not all, massr.  Viola she say dat Missa Vaginny she 'have
+different from what she used to: he talk love; she not angry no more;
+she listen to him talk.  Oh, Massr George, Viola think she give her
+consent to marry him: dat would be dreadful thing--berry, berry
+dreadful."
+
+"Jake," said I, "listen to me.  You will stay by the house when I am
+absent.  You will take note of every one who comes and goes; and
+whenever Arens Ringgold makes his appearance on a visit to the family,
+you will come for me as fast as horse can carry you."
+
+"Gollys! dat I will, Massr George: you nebber fear, I come fass enuff--
+like a streak ob de greased lightnin'."
+
+And with this promise the black left me.
+
+------------------------------------------------------------------------
+
+With all my disposition to be incredulous, I could not disregard the
+information thus imparted to me.  Beyond doubt, there was truth in it.
+The black was too faithful to think of deceiving me, and too astute to
+be himself deceived.  Viola had rare opportunities for observing all
+that passed within our family circle; and what motive could she have for
+inventing a tale like this?
+
+Besides Jake had himself seen Ringgold on visits--of which _I_ had never
+been informed.  This confirmed the other--confirmed all.
+
+What was I to make of it?  Three who appear as lovers--the chief,
+Gallagher, Arens Ringgold!  Has she grown wicked, abandoned, and is
+coquetting with all the world?
+
+Can she have a thought of Ringgold?  No--it is not possible.  I could
+understand her having an affection for the soldier--a romantic passion
+for the brave and certainly handsome chief; but for Arens Ringgold--a
+squeaking conceited snob, with nought but riches to recommend him--this
+appeared utterly improbable.
+
+Of course, the influence was my mother's; but never before had I
+entertained a thought that Virginia would yield.  If Viola spoke the
+truth, she had yielded, or was yielding.
+
+"Ah, mother, mother! little knowest thou the fiend you would introduce
+to your home, and cherish as your child."
+
+
+
+CHAPTER FIFTY EIGHT.
+
+OLD HICKMAN.
+
+The morning after, I went as usual to the recruiting quarters.
+Gallagher was along with me, as upon this day the volunteers were to be
+"mustered into service," [Note 1] and our presence was necessary at the
+administering of the oath.
+
+A goodly company was collected, forming a troop more respectable in
+numbers than appearance.  They were "mounted volunteers;" but as each
+individual had been his own quartermaster, no two were either armed or
+mounted alike.  Nearly all carried rifles, though there were a few who
+shouldered the old family musket--a relic of revolutionary times--and
+were simply armed with single or double barrelled shot-guns.  These,
+however, loaded with heavy buck-shot, would be no contemptible weapons
+in a skirmish with Indians.  There were pistols of many sorts--from the
+huge brass-butted holsters to small pocket-pistols--single and double
+barrelled--but no revolvers, for as yet the celebrated "Colt" [Note 2]
+had not made its appearance in frontier warfare.  Every volunteer
+carried his knife--some, dagger-shaped with ornamented hafts; while the
+greater number were long, keen blades, similar to those in use among
+butchers.  In the belts of many were stuck small hatchets, an imitation
+of the Indian tomahawk.  These were to serve the double purpose of
+cutting a way through the brushwood, or breaking in the skull of a
+savage, as opportunity might offer.
+
+The equipments consisted of powder-horns, bullet-pouches, and
+shot-belts--in short, the ordinary sporting gear of the frontiersman or
+amateur hunter when out upon the "still-hunt," of the fallow deer.
+
+The "mount" of the troop was as varied as the arms and accoutrements:
+horses from thirteen hands to seventeen; the tall, raw-boned steed; the
+plump, cob-shaped roadster; the tight, wiry native of the soil, of
+Andalusian race [Note 3]; the lean, worn-out "critter," that carried on
+his back the half-ragged squatter, side by side with the splendid
+Arabian charger, the fancy of some dashing young planter who bestrode
+him, with no slight conceit in the grace and grandeur of his display.
+Not a few were mounted upon mules, both of American and Spanish origin;
+and these, when well trained to the saddle, though they may not equal
+the horse in the charge, are quite equal to him in a campaign against an
+Indian foe.  Amid thickets--through forests of heavy timber, where the
+ground is a marsh, or strewn with logs, fallen branches, and matted with
+protrate parasites, the hybrid will make way safely, when the horse will
+sink or stumble.  Some of the most experienced backwoods hunters, while
+following the chase, prefer a mule to the high-mettled steed of Arabia.
+
+Motley were the dresses of the troop.  There were uniforms, or
+half-uniforms, worn by some of the officers; but among the men no two
+were dressed in like fashion.  Blanket-coats of red, blue, and green;
+linsey woolseys of coarse texture, grey or copper-coloured; red flannel
+shirts; jackets of brown linen, or white--some of yellow nankin cotton--
+a native fabric; some of sky-blue cottonade; hunting-shirts of dressed
+deer-skin, with moccasins and leggins; boots of horse or alligator hide,
+high-lows, brogans--in short, every variety of _chaussure_ known
+throughout the States.
+
+The head-gear was equally varied and fantastic.  No stiff shakos were to
+be seen there; but caps of skin, and hats of wool and felt, and straw
+and palmetto-leaf, broad-brimmed, scuffed, and slouching.  A few had
+forage-caps of blue cloth, that gave somewhat of a military character to
+the wearers.
+
+In one respect, the troop had a certain uniformity; they were all eager
+for the fray--burning for a fight with the hated savages, who were
+committing such depredations throughout the land.  When were they to be
+led against them?  This was the inquiry constantly passing through the
+ranks of the volunteer array.
+
+Old Hickman was among the most active.  His age and experience had
+procured him the rank of sergeant by free election; and I had many
+opportunities of conversing with him.  The alligator-hunter was still my
+true friend, and devoted to the interests of our family.  On this very
+day I chanced to be with him alone, when he gave proof of his attachment
+by volunteering a conversation I little expected from him.  Thus he
+began:
+
+"May a Injun sculp me, lootenant, if I can bar the thought o' that puke
+a marrin' yur sister."
+
+"Marrying my sister--who?"  I inquired in some surprise.  Was it
+Gallagher he meant?
+
+"Why, in coorse the fellar as everybody sez is a goin' to--that cussed
+polecat o' a critter, Ary Ringgold."
+
+"Oh! him you mean?  Everybody says so, do they?"
+
+"In coorse--it's the hul talk o' the country.  Durn me, George Randolph,
+if I'd let him.  Yur sister--the putty critter--she ur the finest an'
+the hansomest gurl in these parts; an' for a durned skunk like thet,
+not'ithstandin' all his dollars, to git her, I can't a bear to hear o't.
+Why, George, I tell you, he'll make her mis'able for the hul term o'
+her nat'ral life--that ere's whet he'll be sartint to do--durnation to
+him!"
+
+"You are kind to counsel me, Hickman; but I think the event you dread is
+not likely ever to come to pass."
+
+"Why do people keep talkin' o't, then?  Everybody says it's a goin' to
+be.  If it wan't thet I'm an old friend o' yur father, George, I wudn't
+ha' tuk sich a liberty; but I war his friend, an' I'm _yur_ friend; an'
+thurfor it be I hev spoke on the matter.  We may talk o' Injuns; but
+thur ain't ne'er a Injun in all Floridy is as big a thief as them
+Ringgolds--father an' son, an' the hul kit o' them.  The old un' he's
+clurred out from hyar, an' whar he's gone to 'tain't hard to tell.  Ole
+Scratch hez got hold o' him, an' I reck'n he'll be catchin' it by this
+time for the deviltries he carried on while about hyar.  He'll git paid
+up slick for the way he treated them poor half-breeds on tother side the
+crik."
+
+"The Powells?"
+
+"Ye-es--that wur the durndest piece o' unjustice I ever know'd o' in all
+my time.  By --, it wur!"
+
+"You know what happened them, then?"
+
+"Sartinly I do; every trick in the hul game.  Twur a leetle o' the
+meanest transackshun I ever know'd a white--an' a white that called
+himself a gentleman--to have a hand in.  By --, it wur!"
+
+Hickman now proceeded, at my request, to detail with more minuteness
+than I had yet heard them, the facts connected with the robbery of the
+unfortunate family.
+
+It appeared by his account that the Powells had not voluntarily gone
+away from the plantation; that, on the contrary, their removal had been
+to the friendless widow the most painful thing of all.  Not only was the
+land of great value--the best in the whole district--but it had been to
+her the scene of a happy life--a home endeared by early love, by the
+memory of a kind husband, by every tie of the heart's affection; and she
+had only parted from it when driven out by the strong arm of the law--by
+the staff of the sheriff's officer.
+
+Hickman had been present at the parting scene, and described it in rough
+but feeling terms.  He told me of the sad unwillingness which the family
+exhibited at parting; of the indignant reproaches of the son--of the
+tears and entreaties of mother and daughter--how the persecuted widow
+had offered everything left her--her personal property--even the
+trinkets and jewels--souvenirs given her by her departed husband--if the
+ruffians would only allow her to remain in possession of the house--the
+old homestead, consecrated to her by long happy years spent under its
+roof.
+
+Her appeals were in vain.  The heartless persecutor was without
+compassion, and she was driven forth.
+
+Of all these things, the old hunter spoke freely and feelingly; for
+although a man of somewhat vulgar speech and rough exterior, he was one
+whose heart beat with humanity, and who hated injustice.  He had no
+friendship for mere wrong-doers, and he heartily detested the whole
+tribe of the Ringgolds.  His narration re-kindled within me the
+indignant emotions I had experienced on first hearing of this monstrous
+act of cruelty; and my sympathy for Osceola--interrupted by late
+suspicions--was almost restored, as I stood listening to the story of
+his wrongs.
+
+------------------------------------------------------------------------
+
+Note 1.  In the United States, a volunteer corps or regiment "raises
+itself."  When the numbers are complete, and the officers are elected,
+if the government accept its services, both officers and men are then
+"mustered in"--In other words, sworn to serve for a fixed period, under
+exactly the same regulations as the regular troops, with like pay,
+rations, etc.
+
+Note 2.  The military corps first armed with Colt's pistols was the
+regiment of Texan Rangers.  Its first trial in actual warfare occurred
+in the war between the United States and Mexico in a skirmish with the
+guerilla band of Padre Jaranta. 125 guerrilleros were put _hors de
+combat_ in less than fifteen minutes by this effective weapon.
+
+Note 3.  The horse was introduced into Florida by the Spaniards; hence
+the breed.
+
+
+
+CHAPTER FIFTY NINE.
+
+A HASTY MESSENGER.
+
+In the company of Hickman, I had walked off to some distance from the
+crowd, in order that our conversation should be unrestrained.
+
+As the moments passed, the old hunter warmed into greater freedom of
+speech, and from his manner I fancied he had still other developments to
+make.  I had firm faith in his devotion to our family--as well as in his
+personal friendship for myself--and once or twice I was on the eve of
+revealing to him the thoughts that rendered me unhappy.  In experience,
+he was a sage, and although a rude one, he might be the best counsellor
+I could find.  I knew no other who possessed half his knowledge of the
+world--for Hickman had not always lived among the alligators; on the
+contrary, he had passed through various phases of life.  I could safely
+trust to his devotedness: with equal safety I might confide in the
+resources of his judgment.
+
+Under this belief, I should have unburdened myself of the heavy secrets
+weighing upon my mind--of some of them at least--had it not been that I
+fancied he already knew some of them.  With the re-appearance of Yellow
+Jake I knew him to be acquainted: he alleged that he had never felt sure
+about the mulatto's death, and had heard long ago that he was alive; but
+it was not of him I was thinking, but of the designs of Arens Ringgold.
+Perhaps Hickman knew something of these.  I noticed that when his name
+was mentioned in connection with those of Spence and Williams, he
+glanced towards me a look of strange significance, as if he had
+something to say of these wretches.
+
+I was waiting for him to make a disclosure, when the footfall of a
+fast-going horse fell upon my ear.  On looking up, I perceived a
+horseman coming down the bank of the river, and galloping as earnestly
+as if riding a "quarter-race."
+
+The horse was white, and the rider black; I recognised both at a glance;
+Jake was the horseman.
+
+I stepped out from among the trees, in order that he should see me, and
+not pass on to the church that stood a little beyond.  I hailed him as
+he advanced.
+
+He both saw and heard me; and abruptly turning his horse, came galloping
+up to the spot where the old hunter and I were standing.
+
+He was evidently upon an errand; but the presence of Hickman prevented
+him from declaring it aloud.  It would not keep, however, and throwing
+himself from the saddle, he drew near me, and whispered it into my ear.
+It was just what I was expecting to hear--Arens Ringgold was at the
+house.
+
+"That dam nigga am thar, Massr George."
+
+Such was literally Jake's muttered announcement.
+
+I received the communication with as much show of tranquillity as I
+could assume; I did not desire that Hickman should have any knowledge of
+its nature, nor even a suspicion that there was anything extraordinary
+upon the _tapis_; so dismissing the black messenger with a word, I
+turned away with the hunter; and walking back to the church enclosure,
+contrived to lose him in the crowd of his comrades.
+
+Soon after, I released my horse from his fastening; and, without saying
+a word to any one--not even to Gallagher--I mounted, and moved quietly
+off.
+
+I did not take the direct road that led to our plantation, but made a
+short circuit through some woods that skirted close to the church.  I
+did this to mislead old Hickman or any other who might have noticed the
+rapid arrival of the messenger; and who, had I gone directly back with
+him, might have held guesses that all was not right at home.  To prevent
+this, I appeared to curious eyes, to have gone in an opposite direction
+to the right one.
+
+A little rough riding through the bushes brought me out into the main
+up-river road; and then, sinking the spur, I galloped as if life or
+death were staked upon the issue.  My object in making such haste was
+simply to get to the house in time, before the clandestine visitor--
+welcome guest of mother and sister--should make his adieus.
+
+Strong reasons as I had for hating this man, I had no sanguinary
+purpose; it was not my design to kill Arens Ringgold--though such might
+have been the most proper mode to dispose of a reptile so vile and
+dangerous as he.  Knowing him as I did, freshly spurred to angry passion
+by Hickman's narrative of his atrocious behaviour, I could at that
+moment have taken his life without fear of remorse.
+
+But although I felt fierce indignation, I was yet neither mad nor
+reckless.  Prudential motives--the ordinary instinct of self-safety--
+still had their influence over me; and I had no intention to imitate the
+last act in the tragedy of Samson's life.
+
+The programme I had sketched out for myself was of a more rational
+character.
+
+My design was to approach the house--if possible, unobserved--the
+drawing-room as well--where of course the visitor would be found--an
+abrupt _entree_ upon the scene--both guest and hosts taken by surprise--
+the demand of an explanation from all three--a complete clearing-up of
+this mysterious _imbroglio_ of our family relations, that was so
+painfully perplexing me.  Face to face, I should confront the triad--
+mother, sister, wooer--and force all three to confession.
+
+"Yes!" soliloquised I, with the eagerness of my intention driving the
+spur into the flanks of my horse--"Yes--confess they shall--they must--
+one and all, or--"
+
+With the first two I could not define the alternative; though some dark
+design, based upon the slight of filial and fraternal love, was lurking
+within my bosom.
+
+For Ringgold, should he refuse to give the truth, my resolve was first
+to "cowhide" him, then kick him out of doors, and finally command him
+never again to enter the house--the house, of which henceforth I was
+determined to be master.
+
+As for etiquette, that was out of the question; at that hour, my soul
+was ill attuned to the observance of delicate ceremony.  No rudeness
+could be amiss, in dealing with the man who had tried to murder me.
+
+
+
+CHAPTER SIXTY.
+
+A LOVER'S GIFT.
+
+As I have said, it was my design to make an entrance unobserved;
+consequently, it was necessary to observe caution in approaching the
+house.  To this end, as I drew near the plantation, I turned off the
+main road into a path that led circuitously by the rear.  This path
+would conduct me by the hommock, the bathing-pond, and the
+orange-groves, without much danger of my approach being noticed by any
+one.  The slaves at work within the enclosures could see me as I rode
+through the grounds; but these were the "field-hands."  Unless seen by
+some of the domestics, engaged in household affairs, I had no fear of
+being announced.
+
+My messenger had not gone directly back; I had ordered him to await me
+in an appointed place, and there I found him.
+
+Directing him to follow me, I kept on; and having passed through the
+fields, we rode into the thick underwood of the hommock, where halting,
+we dismounted from our horses.  From this point I proceeded alone.
+
+As the hunter steals upon the unexpecting game, or the savage upon his
+sleeping foe, did I approach the house--my home, my father's home, the
+home of mother and sister.  Strange conduct in a son and a brother--a
+singular situation.
+
+My limbs trembled under me as I advanced, my knees knocked together, my
+breast was agitated by a tumult of wild emotions.  Once I hesitated and
+halted.  The prospect of the unpleasant scene I was about to produce
+stayed me.  My resolution was growing weak and undecided.
+
+Perhaps I might have gone back--perhaps I might have waited another
+opportunity, when I might effect my purpose by a less violent
+development--but just then voices fell upon my ear, the effect of which
+was to strengthen my wavering resolves.  My sister's voice was ringing
+in laughter, that sounded light and gay.  There was another--only one.
+I easily recognised the squeaking treble of her despicable suitor.  The
+voices remaddened me--the tones stung me, as if they had been designedly
+uttered in mockery of myself.  How could she behave thus? how riot in
+joy, while I was drooping under dark suspicions of her misbehaviour?
+
+Piqued as well as pained, I surrendered all thought of honourable
+action; I resolved to carry through my design, but first--to play the
+listener.
+
+I drew nearer, and heard clearer.  The speakers were not in the house,
+but outside, by the edge of the orange grove.  Softly treading, gently
+parting the boughs, now crouching beneath them, now gliding erect, I
+arrived unobserved within six paces of where they stood--near enough to
+perceive their dresses glistening through the leaves--to hear every word
+that passed between them.
+
+Not many had been spoken, before I perceived that I had arrived at a
+peculiar moment--a crisis.  The lover had just offered himself for a
+husband--had, perhaps for the first time, seriously made his
+declaration.  In all probability it was this had been eliciting my
+sister's laughter.
+
+"And really, Mr Ringgold, you wish to make me your wife?  You are in
+earnest in what you have said?"
+
+"Nay, Miss Randolph, do not mock me; you know for how many years I have
+been devoted to you."
+
+"Indeed, I do not.  How could I know that?"
+
+"By my words.  Have I not told you so a hundred times?"
+
+"Words!  I hold words of little value in a matter of this kind.  Dozens
+have talked to me as you, who, I suppose, cared very little about me.
+The tongue is a great trifler, Mr Arens."
+
+"But my actions prove my sincerity.  I have offered you my hand and my
+fortune; is not that a sufficient proof of devotion?"
+
+"No, silly fellow; nothing of the sort.  Were I to become your wife, the
+fortune would still remain your own.  Besides, I have some little
+fortune myself, and that would come under your control.  So you see the
+advantage would be decidedly in your favour.  Ha, ha, ha!"
+
+"Nay, Miss Randolph; I should not think of controlling yours; and if you
+will accept my hand--"
+
+"Your hand, sir?  If you would win a woman, you should offer your
+_heart_--hearts, not hands, for me."
+
+"You know that is yours already; and has been for long years: all the
+world knows it."
+
+"You must have told the world, then; and I don't like it a bit."
+
+"Really, you are too harsh with me: you have had many proofs of how long
+and devotedly I have admired you.  I would have declared myself long
+since, and asked you to become my wife--"
+
+"And why did you not?"
+
+Ringgold hesitated.
+
+"The truth is, I was not my own master--I was under the control of my
+father."
+
+"Indeed?"
+
+"That exists no longer.  I can now act as I please; and, dearest Miss
+Randolph, if you will but accept my hand--"
+
+"Your hand again!  Let me tell you, sir, that this hand of yours has not
+the reputation of being the most open one.  Should I accept it, it might
+prove sparing of pin-money.  Ha, ha, ha!"
+
+"I am aspersed by enemies.  I swear to you, that in that sense you
+should have no cause to complain of my liberality."
+
+"I am not so sure of that, notwithstanding the oath you would take.
+Promises made before marriage are too often broken after.  I would not
+trust you, my man--not I, i' faith."
+
+"But you can trust me, I assure you."
+
+"You cannot assure me; besides, _I_ have had no proofs of your
+liberality in the past.  Why, Mr Ringgold, you never made me a present
+in your life.  Ha, ha, ha!"
+
+"Had I known you would have accepted one--it would gratify me--Miss
+Randolph, I would give you anything I possess."
+
+"Good!  Now, I shall put you to the test: you shall make me a gift."
+
+"Name it--it shall be yours."
+
+"Oh, you fancy I am going to ask you for some trifling affair--a horse,
+a poodle, or some bit of glittering _bijouterie_.  Nothing of the sort,
+I assure you."
+
+"I care not what.  I have offered you my whole fortune, and therefore
+will not hesitate to give you a part of it.  Only specify what you may
+desire, and I shall freely give it."
+
+"That sounds liberal indeed.  Very well, then, you have something I
+desire to possess--and very much desire it--in truth, I have taken a
+fancy to be its owner, and had some designs of making offers to you for
+the purchase of it."
+
+"What can you mean, Miss Randolph?"
+
+"A plantation."
+
+"A plantation!"
+
+"Exactly so.  Not your own, but one of which you are the proprietor."
+
+"Ah!"
+
+"I mean that which formerly belonged to a family of half-bloods upon
+Tupelo Creek.  Your father _purchased_ it from them, I believe!"
+
+I noted the emphasis upon the word "purchased."  I noted hesitation and
+some confusion in the reply.
+
+"Yes--yes," said he; "it was so.  But you astonish me, Miss Randolph.
+Why care you for this, when you shall be mistress of all I possess?"
+
+"That is my affair.  I _do_ care for it.  I may have many reasons.  That
+piece of ground is a favourite spot with me; it is a lovely place--I
+often go there.  Remember, my brother is owner here--he is not likely to
+remain a bachelor all his life--and my mother may desire to have a home
+of her own.  But no; I shall give you no reasons; make the gift or not,
+as you please."
+
+"And if I do, you will--"
+
+"Name conditions, and I will not accept it--not if you ask me on your
+knees.  Ha, ha, ha!"
+
+"I shall make none, then: if you will accept it, it is yours."
+
+"Ah, that is not all, Master Arens.  You might take it back just as
+easily as you have given it.  How am I to be sure that you would not?  I
+must have the _deeds_."
+
+"You shall have them."
+
+"And when?"
+
+"Whenever you please--within the hour, if you desire it."
+
+"I do, then.  Go, get them!  But remember, sir, _I make no conditions--
+remember that_?"
+
+"Oh," exclaimed the overjoyed lover, "I make none.  I have no fears: I
+leave all to you.  In an hour, you shall have them.  Adieu!"
+
+And so saying, he made a hurried departure.
+
+I was so astonished by the nature of this dialogue--so taken by surprise
+at its odd ending--that for a time I could not stir from the spot.  Not
+until Ringgold had proceeded to some distance did I recover
+self-possession; and then I hesitated what course to pursue--whether to
+follow him, or permit him to depart unmolested.
+
+Virginia had gone away from the ground, having glided silently back into
+the house.  I was even angrier with her than with him; and, obedient to
+this impulse, I left Ringgold to go free, and went straight for an
+explanation with my sister.
+
+It proved a somewhat stormy scene.  I found her in the drawing-room in
+company with my mother.  I stayed for no circumlocution; I listened to
+no denial or appeal, but openly announced to both the character of the
+man who had just left the house--openly declared him my intended
+murderer.
+
+"Now, Virginia! sister! will you marry this man?"  "Never, George--
+never!  I never intended it--Never!" she repeated emphatically, as she
+sank upon the sofa, burying her face in her hands.
+
+My mother was incredulous--even yet incredulous!
+
+I was proceeding to the proofs of the astounding declaration I had made,
+when I heard my name loudly pronounced outside the window: some one was
+calling me in haste.
+
+I ran out upon the verandah to inquire what was wanted.
+
+In front was a man on horseback, in blue uniform, with yellow facings--a
+dragoon.  He was an orderly, a messenger from the fort.  He was covered
+with dust, his horse was in a lather of sweat and foam.  The condition
+of both horse and man showed that they had been going for hours at
+top-speed.
+
+The man handed me a piece of paper--a dispatch hastily scrawled.  It was
+addressed to Gallagher and myself.  I opened and read:
+
+"Bring on your men to Fort King as fast as their horses can carry them.
+The enemy is around us in numbers; every rifle is wanted--lose not a
+moment.  Clinch."
+
+
+
+CHAPTER SIXTY ONE.
+
+THE ROUTE.
+
+The dispatch called for instant obedience.  Fortunately my horse was
+still under the saddle, and in less than five minutes I was upon his
+back, and galloping for the volunteer camp.
+
+Among these eager warriors, the news produced a joyous excitement,
+expressed in a wild _hurrah_.  Enthusiasm supplied the place of
+discipline; and, in less than half an hour, the corps was accoutred and
+ready for the road.
+
+There was nothing to cause delay.  The command to march was given; the
+bugle sounded the "forward," and the troop filing "by twos," into a long
+somewhat irregular line, took the route for Fort King.
+
+I galloped home to say adieu.  It was a hurried leave-taking--less happy
+than my last--but I rode away with more contentment, under the knowledge
+that my sister was now warned, and there was no longer any danger of an
+alliance with Arens Ringgold.
+
+The orderly who brought the dispatch rode back with the troop.  As we
+marched along, he communicated the camp-news, and rumours in circulation
+at the fort.  Many events had occurred, of which we had not heard.  The
+Indians had forsaken their towns, taking with them their wives,
+children, cattle, and chattels.  Some of their villages they had
+themselves fired, leaving nothing for their pale-faced enemies to
+destroy.  This proved a determination to engage in a general war, had
+other proofs of this disposition been wanting.  Whither they had gone,
+even our spies had been unable to find out.  It was supposed by some
+that they had moved farther south, to a more distant part of the
+peninsula.  Others alleged that they had betaken themselves to the great
+swamp that stretches for many leagues around the head-waters of the
+Amazura river, and known as the "Cove of the Ouithlacoochee."
+
+This last conjecture was the more likely, though so secretly and
+adroitly had they managed their migration, that not a trace of the
+movement could be detected.  The spies of the friendly Indians--the
+keenest that could be employed--were unable to discover their retreat.
+It was supposed that they intended to act only on the defensive--that
+is, to make plundering forays on whatever quarter was left unguarded by
+troops, and then retire with their booty to the fastnesses of the swamp.
+Their conduct up to this time had rendered the supposition probable
+enough.  In such case, the war might not be so easily brought to a
+termination! in other words, there might be no war at all, but a
+succession of fruitless marches and pursuits; for it was well enough
+understood that if the Indians did not choose to stand before us in
+action, we should have but little chance of overhauling them in their
+retreat.
+
+The fear of the troops was, that their adversaries would "take to the
+cover," where it would be difficult, if not altogether impossible, to
+find them.
+
+However, this state of things could not be perpetual; the Indians could
+not always subsist upon plunder, where the booty must be every day
+growing less.  They were too numerous for a mere band of robbers, though
+there existed among the whites a very imperfect idea of their numbers.
+Estimates placed them at from one to five thousand souls--runaway
+negroes included--and even the best informed frontiersmen could give
+only rude guesses on this point.  For my part, I believed that there
+were more than a thousand warriors, even after the defection of the
+traitor clans; and this was the opinion of one who knew them well--old
+Hickman the hunter.
+
+How, then, were so many to find subsistence in the middle of a morass?
+Had they been provident, and there accumulated a grand commissariat?
+No: this question could at once be answered in the negative.  It was
+well-known that the contrary was the case--for in this year the
+Seminoles were without even their usual supply.  Their removal had been
+urged in the spring; and, in consequence of the doubtful prospect before
+them, many had planted little--some not at all.  The crop, therefore,
+was less than in ordinary years; and previous to the final council at
+Fort King, numbers of them had been both buying and begging food from
+the frontier citizens.
+
+What likelihood, then, of finding subsistence throughout a long
+campaign?  They would be starved out of their fortresses--they must come
+out, and either stand fight, or sue for peace.  So people believed.
+
+This topic was discoursed as we rode along.  It was one of primary
+interest to all young warriors thirsting for fame--inasmuch as, should
+the enemy determine to pursue so inglorious a system of warfare, where
+were the laurels to be plucked?  A campaign in the miasmatic and
+pestilential climate of the swamps was more likely to yield a luxuriant
+crop of cypresses.
+
+Most hoped, and hence believed, that the Indians would soon grow hungry,
+and shew themselves in a fair field of fight.
+
+There were different opinions as to the possibility of their subsisting
+themselves for a lengthened period of time.  Some--and these were men
+best acquainted with the nature of the country--expressed their belief
+that they could.  The old alligator-hunter was of this way of thinking.
+
+"Thuv got," said he, "that ere durned brier wi' the big roots they calls
+`coonty' [_Smilax pseudo-china_]; it grows putty nigh all over the
+swamp, an' in some places as thick as a cane-brake.  It ur the best o'
+eatin', an' drinkin' too, for they make a drink o' it.  An' then thar's
+the acorns o' the live-oak--them ain't such bad eatin', when well
+roasted i' the ashes.  They may gather thousands of bushels, I reckon.
+An' nixt thar's the cabbidge in the head o' the big palmetter; thet
+ere'll gi' them greens.  As to their meat, thar's deer, an' thar's bar--
+a good grist o' them in the swamp--an' thares allaygatur, a tol'ably
+goodish wheen o' them varmint, I reckon--to say nothin o' turtle, an'
+turkey, an' squirrels an' snakes, an' sandrats, for, durn a red skin! he
+kin eat anythin' that crawls--from a punkin to a polecat.  Don't you
+b'lieve it, fellars.  Them ere Injuns aint a gwine to starve, s'easy as
+you think for.  Thu'll hold out by thar teeth an' toe-nails, jest so
+long as thar's a eatable thing in the darnationed swamp--that's what
+thu'll do."
+
+This sage reasoning produced conviction in the minds of those who heard
+it.  After all, the dispersed enemy might not be so helpless as was
+generally imagined.
+
+The march of the volunteers was not conducted in a strict military
+style.  It was so commenced; but the officers soon found it impossible
+to carry out the "tactics."  The men, especially the younger ones, could
+not be restrained from occasionally falling out of the lines--to help
+themselves to a pull out of some odd-looking flask; and at intervals one
+would gallop off into the woods, in hopes of getting a shot at a deer or
+a turkey he had caught a glimpse of through the trees.
+
+Reasoning with these fellows, on the part of their officers, proved
+rather a fruitless affair; and getting angry with them was only to
+elicit a sulky rejoinder.
+
+Sergeant Hickman was extremely wroth with some of the offenders.
+
+"Greenhorns!" he exclaimed; "darnationed greenhorns! let 'em go on at
+it.  May a allaygatur eet me, if they don't behave diff'rent by-'m-by.
+I'll stake my critter agin any hoss in the crowd, that some o' them ere
+fellars'll get sculped afore sundown; durned if they don't."
+
+No one offered to take the old hunter's bet, and fortunately for them,
+as his words proved prophetic.
+
+A young planter, fancying himself as safe as if riding through his own
+sugar-canes, had galloped off from the line of march.  A deer, seen
+browsing in the savanna, offered an attraction too strong to be
+resisted.
+
+He had not been gone five minutes--had scarcely passed out of sight of
+his comrades--when two shots were heard in quick succession; and the
+next moment, his riderless horse came galloping back to the troop.
+
+The line was halted, and faced in the direction whence the shots had
+been heard.  An advance party moved forward to the ground.  No enemy was
+discovered, nor the traces of any, except those exhibited in the dead
+body of the young planter, that lay perforated with a brace of bullets
+just as it had fallen out of the saddle.
+
+It was a lesson--though an unpleasant one to his comrades--and after
+this, there were no more attempts at deer-stalking.  The man was buried
+on the spot where he lay, and with the troop more regularly and
+compactly formed--now an easier duty for its officers--we continued the
+march unmolested, and before sunset were within the stockade of the
+fort.
+
+
+
+CHAPTER SIXTY TWO.
+
+A KNOCK ON THE HEAD.
+
+Excepting the memory of one short hour, Fort King had for me no pleasant
+reminiscences.  There had been some new arrivals in my absence, but none
+of them worthy of companionship.  They only rendered quarters more
+crowded, and accommodation more difficult to obtain.  The sutlers and
+the blacklegs were rapidly making their fortunes; and these, with the
+quartermaster, the commissary [Note 1], and the "beef-contractor,"
+appeared to be the only prosperous men about the place.
+
+The "beau" was still chief aide-de-camp, gaily caparisoned as ever; but
+of him I had almost ceased to think.
+
+It was not long before I was ordered upon duty--almost the moment after
+my arrival--and that, as usual, of a disagreeable kind.  Before I had
+time to obtain a moment's rest after the long ride--even before I could
+wash the road-dust from my skin--I was summoned to the head-quarters of
+the commander-in-chief.
+
+What could he want with me, in such hot haste?  Was it about the duels?
+Were these old scores going to be reckoned up?
+
+Not without some apprehension did I betake myself into the presence of
+the general.
+
+It proved however, to be nothing concerning the past; though, when I
+learned the duty I was to perform, I half regretted that it was not a
+reprimand.
+
+I found the agent closeted with the commander-in-chief.  They had
+designed another interview with Omatla and "Black Dirt."  I was merely
+wanted as an interpreter.
+
+The object of this fresh interview with the chiefs was stated in my
+hearing.  It was to arrange a plan for concerted action between the
+troops and the friendly Indians, who were to act as our allies against
+their own countrymen; the latter--as was now known by certain
+information--being collected in large force in the "Cove of the
+Ouithlacoochee."  Their actual position was still unknown; but that, it
+was confidently hoped, would be discovered by the aid of the friendly
+chiefs, and their spies, who were constantly on the run.
+
+The meeting had been already pre-arranged.  The chiefs--who, as already
+stated, had gone to Fort Brooke, and were there living under protection
+of the garrison--were to make a secret journey, and meet the agent and
+general at an appointed place--the old ground, the hommock by the pond.
+
+The meeting had been fixed for that very night--as soon as it should be
+dark enough to hide the approach of both tempters and traitors.
+
+It was dark enough almost the moment the sun went down--for the moon was
+in her third quarter, and would not be in the sky until after sunset.
+
+Shortly after twilight, therefore, we three proceeded to the spot--the
+general, the agent, and the interpreter, just as we had done on the
+former occasion.
+
+The chiefs were not there, and this caused a little surprise.  By the
+noted punctuality with which an Indian keeps his assignation, it was
+expected they would have been on the ground, for the hour appointed had
+arrived.
+
+"What is detaining them?  What can be detaining them?" mutually inquired
+the commissioner and general.
+
+Scarcely an instant passed till the answer came.  It came from afar, and
+in a singular utterance; but it could be no other than a reply to the
+question--so both my companions conjectured.
+
+Borne upon the night-breeze was the sound of strife--the sharp cracking
+of rifles and pistols; and distinctly heard above all, the shrill
+_Yo-ho-ehee_.
+
+The sounds were distant--away amid the far woods; but they were
+sufficiently distinct to admit of the interpretation, that a
+life-and-death struggle was going on between two parties of men.
+
+It could be no feint, no false alarm to draw the soldiers from the fort,
+or terrify the sentinel on his post.  There was an earnestness in the
+wild treble of those shrill cries, that convinced the listener that
+human blood was being spilled.
+
+My companions were busy with conjectures.  I saw that neither possessed
+a high degree of courage, for that is not necessary to become a general.
+In my warlike experience, I have seen more than one hiding behind a
+tree or piece of a wall.  One, indeed, who was afterwards elected the
+chief of twenty millions of people, I have seen skulking in a ditch to
+screen himself from a stray shot, while his lost brigade, half a mile in
+the advance, was gallantly fighting under the guidance of a
+sub-lieutenant.
+
+But why should I speak of these things here?  The world is full of such
+heroes.
+
+"It is they, by --," exclaimed the commissioner.  "They have been
+waylaid; they are attacked by the others; that rascal Powell for a
+thousand!"
+
+"It is extremely probable," replied the other, who seemed to have a
+somewhat steadier nerve, and spoke more coolly.  "Yes, it must be.
+There are no troops in that direction; no whites either--not a man.  It
+must therefore be an affair among the Indians themselves; and what else
+than attack upon the friendly chiefs?  You are right, Thompson; it is as
+you say."
+
+"If so, general, it will be of no use our remaining here.  If they have
+waylaid Omatla, they will of course have superior numbers, and he must
+fall.  We need not expect him."
+
+"No; he is not likely to come, neither he nor Lusta.  As you say, it is
+idle for us to remain here.  I think we may as well return to the fort."
+
+There was a moment's hesitation, during which I fancied both generals
+were debating in their own minds whether it would be _graceful_ thus to
+give up their errand and purpose.
+
+"If they should come,"--continued the soldier.
+
+"General," said I, taking the liberty to interrupt him, "if you desire
+it, I will remain upon the ground for a while, and see.  If they should
+come," I added, in continuation of the broken sentence, "I can proceed
+to the fort, and give you notice."
+
+I could not have made a proposition more agreeable to the two.  It was
+instantly accepted, and the brace of official heroes moved away, leaving
+me to myself.
+
+It was not long ere I had cause to regret my generous rashness.  My late
+companions could scarcely have reached the fort when the sounds of the
+strife suddenly ceased, and I heard the _caha-queene_--the Seminole
+shout of triumph.  I was still listening to its wild intonations, when
+half-a-dozen men--dark-bodied men--rushed out of the bushes, and
+surrounded me where I stood.
+
+Despite the poor light the stars afforded, I could see shining blades,
+guns, pistols, and tomahawks.  The weapons were too near my eyes to be
+mistaken for the fire-flies that had been glittering around my head,
+besides, the clink of steel was in my ears.
+
+My assailants made no outcry, perhaps because they were too near the
+fort; and my own shouts were soon suppressed by a blow that levelled me
+to the earth, depriving me as well of consciousness as of speech.
+
+------------------------------------------------------------------------
+
+Note 1.  In the United States army, these two offices are quite
+distinct.  A "commissary" caters only for the inner man; a
+quartermaster's duty is to shelter, clothe, arm, and equip.  A wise
+regulation.
+
+
+
+CHAPTER SIXTY THREE.
+
+AN INDIAN EXECUTIONER.
+
+After a short spell of obliviousness, I recovered my senses.  I
+perceived that the Indians were still around me, but no longer in the
+menacing attitude in which I had seen them before being struck down; on
+the contrary, they appeared to be treating me with kindness.  One of
+them held my head upon his knee, while another was endeavouring to
+staunch the blood that was running freely from a wound in my temples.
+The others stood around regarding me with interest, and apparently
+anxious about my recovery.
+
+Their behaviour caused me surprise, for I had no other thought than that
+they had intended to kill me; indeed, as I sank under the stroke of the
+tomahawk, my senses had gone out, under the impression that I _was_
+killed.  Such a reflection is not uncommon to those whom a blow has
+suddenly deprived of consciousness.
+
+My surprise was of an agreeable character.  I felt that I still lived--
+that I was but little hurt; and not likely to receive any further damage
+from those who surrounded me.
+
+They were speaking to one another in low tones, pronouncing the
+prognosis of my wound, and apparently gratified that they had not killed
+me.
+
+"We have spilled your blood, but it is not dangerous," said one,
+addressing himself to me in his native tongue.  "It was I who gave the
+blow.  _Hulwak_! it was dark.  Friend of the Rising Sun! we did not know
+you.  We thought you were the _yatika-clucco_ [the `great speaker'--the
+commissioner].  It is his blood we intended to spill.  We expected to
+find him here; he has been here: where gone?"
+
+I pointed in the direction of the fort.
+
+"_Hulwak_!" exclaimed several in a breath, and in a tone that betokened
+disappointment; and then turning aside, they conversed with each other
+in a low voice.
+
+"Fear not," said the first speaker, again standing before me, "friend of
+the Rising Sun! we will not do further harm to you; but you must go with
+us to the chiefs.  They are not far off.  Come!"
+
+I was once more upon my feet, and perhaps by a desperate effort might
+have escaped.  The attempt, however, might have cost me a second
+knock-down--perhaps my life.  Moreover, the courtesy of my captors at
+once set my mind at ease.  Go where they might, I felt that I had
+nothing to fear from them; and, without hesitation, I consented to
+accompany them.
+
+My captors, throwing themselves into single file, and assigning me a
+position in their midst, at once started off through the woods.  For
+some time we walked rapidly, the path taken by the leader of the party
+being easily followed, even in the darkness, by those behind.  I
+observed that we were going in the direction whence had been heard the
+sounds of the conflict, that had long since ceased to vibrate upon the
+air.  Of whatever nature had been the struggle, it was evidently brought
+to a close, and even the victors no longer uttered the _caha-queene_.
+
+We had advanced about a mile when the moon arose; and the woods becoming
+more open, I could see my captors more distinctly.  I recognised the
+features of one or two of them, from having seen them at the council.
+They were warriors of the Micosauc tribe, the followers of Osceola.
+From this I conjectured that he was one of the chiefs before whom I was
+being conducted.
+
+My conjecture proved correct.  We had not gone much further, when the
+path led into an opening in the woods, in the midst of which a large
+body of Indians, about a hundred in all, were grouped together.  A
+little apart was a smaller group--the chiefs and head warriors.  In
+their midst I observed Osceola.
+
+The ground exhibited a singular and sanguinary spectacle.  Dead bodies
+were lying about, gashed with wounds still fresh and bleeding.  Some of
+the dead lay upon their backs, their unclosed eyes glaring ghastly upon
+the moon, all in the attitudes in which they had fallen.  The
+scalping-knife had done its work, as the whitish patch upon the crowns,
+laced with seams of crimson red, shewed the skulls divested of their
+hirsute covering.  Men were strolling about with the fresh scalps in
+their hands, or elevated upon the muzzles of their guns.
+
+There was no mystery in what I saw; I knew its meaning well.  The men
+who had fallen were of the traitor tribes--the followers of Lusta Hajo
+and Omatla.
+
+According to the arrangement with the commissioner, the chiefs had left
+Fort Brooke, accompanied by a chosen band of their retainers.  Their
+intention had become known to the patriots--their movements had been
+watched--they had been attacked on the way; and, after a short struggle,
+overpowered.  Most of them had fallen in the melee--a few, with the
+chief Lusta Hajo, had contrived to escape; while still another few--
+among whom was Omatla himself--had been taken prisoners during the
+conflict, and were yet alive.  They had been rescued from death only to
+suffer it in a more ceremonial shape.
+
+I saw the captives where they stood, close at hand, and fast bound to
+some trees.  Among them I recognised their leader, by the grace of
+Commissioner Thompson, "king of the Seminole nation."
+
+By those around, his majesty was now regarded with but slight deference.
+Many a willing regicide stood near him, and would have taken his life
+without further ceremony.  But these were restrained by the chiefs, who
+opposed the violent proceeding, and who had come to the determination to
+give Omatla a trial, according to the laws and customs of their nation.
+
+As we arrived upon the ground, this trial was going on.  The chiefs were
+in council.
+
+One of my captors reported our arrival.  I noticed a murmur of
+disappointment among the chiefs as he finished making his announcement.
+They were disappointed: I was not the captive they had been expecting.
+
+No notice was taken of me; and I was left free to loiter about, and
+watch their proceedings, if I pleased.
+
+The council soon performed its duty.  The treason of Omatla was too
+well-known to require much canvassing; and, of course, he was found
+guilty, and condemned to expiate the crime with his life.
+
+The sentence was pronounced in the hearing of all present.  The traitor
+must die.
+
+A question arose--who was to be his executioner?
+
+There were many who would have volunteered for the office--for to take
+the life of a traitor, according to Indian philosophy, is esteemed an
+act of honour.  There would be no difficulty in procuring an
+executioner.
+
+Many actually did volunteer; but the services of these were declined by
+the council.  This was a matter to be decided by vote.
+
+The vote was immediately taken.  All knew of the vow made by Osceola.
+His followers were desirous he should keep it; and on this account, he
+was unanimously elected to do the deed.  He accepted the office.
+
+Knife in hand, Osceola approached the captive, now cowering in his
+bonds.  All gathered around to witness the fatal stab.  Moved by an
+impulse I could not resist, I drew near with the rest.
+
+We stood in breathless silence, expecting every moment to see the knife
+plunged into the heart of the criminal.
+
+We saw the arm upraised, and the blow given, but there was no wound--no
+blood!  The blow had descended upon the thongs that bound the captive,
+and Omatla stood forth free from his fastenings!
+
+There was a murmur of disapprobation.  What could Osceola mean?  Did he
+design that Omatla should escape--the traitor condemned by the council--
+by all?
+
+But it was soon perceived he had no such intention--far different was
+his design.
+
+"Omatla!" said he, looking his adversary sternly in the face, "you were
+once esteemed a brave man, honoured by your tribe--by the whole Seminole
+nation.  The white men have corrupted you--they have made you a renegade
+to your country and your cause; for all that, you shall not die the
+death of a dog.  I will kill, but not _murder_ you.  My heart revolts to
+slay a man who is helpless and unarmed.  It shall be a fair combat
+between us, and men shall see that the right triumphs.  Give him back
+his weapons!  Let him defend himself, if he can."
+
+The unexpected proposal was received with some disapprobation.  There
+were many who, indignant at Omatla's treason, and still wild with the
+excitement produced by the late conflict, would have butchered him in
+his bonds.  But all saw that Osceola was determined to act as he had
+proposed; and no opposition was offered.
+
+One of the warriors, stepping forward, handed his weapons to the
+condemned chief--only his tomahawk and knife, for so Osceola was himself
+armed.
+
+This done, by a sort of tacit understanding, the crowd drew back, and
+the two combatants stood alone in the centre.
+
+The struggle was brief as bloody.  Almost at the first blow, Osceola
+struck the hatchet from his antagonist's hand, and with another stroke,
+rapidly following, felled Omatla to the earth.
+
+For a moment the victor was seen bending over his fallen adversary, with
+his long knife unsheathed, and glittering in the moonlight.
+
+When he rose erect, the steel had lost its sheen--it was dimmed with
+crimson blood.
+
+Osceola had kept his oath.  He had driven his blade through the heart of
+the traitor--Omatla had ceased to live.
+
+------------------------------------------------------------------------
+
+White men afterwards pronounced this deed an assassination--a murder.
+It was not so, any more than the death of Charles, of Caligula, of
+Tarquin--of a hundred other tyrants, who have oppressed or betrayed
+their country.
+
+Public opinion upon such matters is not honest; it takes its colour from
+the cant of the times, changing like the hues of the chameleon.  Sheer
+hypocrisy, shameful inconsistency!  He only is a murderer who kills from
+a murderer's motive.  Osceola was not of this class.
+
+------------------------------------------------------------------------
+
+My situation was altogether singular.  As yet, the chiefs had taken no
+notice of my presence; and notwithstanding the courtesy which had been
+extended to me by those who conducted me thither, I was not without some
+apprehensions as to my safety.  It might please the council, excited as
+they were with what had just transpired, and now actually at war with
+our people, to condemn me to a fate similar to that which had befallen
+Omatla.  I stood waiting their pleasure therefore in anything but a
+comfortable frame of mind.
+
+It was not long before I was relieved from _my_ apprehensions.  As soon
+as the affair with Omatla was ended, Osceola approached, and in a
+friendly manner stretched out his hand, which I was only too happy to
+receive in friendship.
+
+He expressed regret that I had been wounded and made captive by his
+men--explained the mistake; and then calling one of his followers,
+ordered him to guide me back to the fort.
+
+I had no desire to remain longer than I could help upon such tragic
+ground; and, bidding the chief adieu, I followed my conductor along the
+path.
+
+Near the pond, the Indian left me; and, without encountering any further
+adventures, I re-entered the gates of the fort.
+
+
+
+CHAPTER SIXTY FOUR.
+
+A BANQUET WITH A BAD ENDING.
+
+As by duty bound, I delivered a report of the scene I had involuntarily
+been witness to.  It produced a lively excitement within the fort, and
+an expedition was instantly ordered forth, with myself to act as guide.
+
+A bit of sheer folly.  The search proved bootless, as any one might have
+prophesied.  Of course, we found the place, and the bodies of those who
+had fallen--upon which the wolves had already been ravening--but we
+discovered no living Indians--not even the path by which they had
+retreated!
+
+The expedition consisted of several hundred men--in fact, the whole
+garrison of the fort.  Had we gone out with a smaller force, in all
+probability, we should have seen something of the enemy.
+
+The death of Omatla was the most serious incident that had yet occurred;
+at all events, the most important in its bearings.  By the whites,
+Omatla had been constituted king; by killing, the Indians shewed their
+contempt for the authority that had crowned him, as well as their
+determination to resist all interference of the kind.  Omatla had been
+directly under the protection of the white chiefs: this had been
+guaranteed to him by promise as by treaty; and therefore the taking his
+life was a blow struck against his patrons.  The government would now be
+under the necessity of avenging his death.
+
+But the incident had its most important bearings upon the Indians,
+especially upon Omatla's own people.  Terrified by the example, and
+dreading lest similar retribution might be extended to themselves, many
+of Omatla's tribe--sub-chiefs and warriors--forsook their alliance, and
+enrolled themselves in the ranks of the patriots.  Other clans that had
+hitherto remained undecided, acting under similar motives, now declared
+their allegiance to the national will, and took up arms without further
+hesitation.
+
+The death of Omatla, besides being an act of stern justice, was a stroke
+of fine policy on the part of the hostile Indians.  It proved the genius
+of him who had conceived and carried it into execution.
+
+Omatla was the first victim of Osceola's vow of vengeance.  Soon after
+appeared the second.  It was not long before the tragedy of the
+traitor's death was eclipsed by another, far more thrilling and
+significant.  One of the chief actors in this drama disappears from the
+stage.
+
+On our arrival at the fort, it was found that the commissariat was
+rapidly running short.  No provision had been made for so large a body
+of troops, and no supplies could possibly reach Fort King for a long
+period of time.  We were to be the victims of the usual improvidence
+exhibited by governments not accustomed to warlike operations.  Rations
+were stinted to the verge of starvation; and the prospect before us
+began to look very like starvation itself.
+
+In this emergency, the commander-in-chief performed an act of great
+patriotism.  Independent of his military command, General Clinch was a
+citizen of Florida--a proprietor and planter upon a large scale.  His
+fine plantation lay at a short distance from Fort King.  His crop of
+maize, covering nearly a hundred acres, was just ripening; and this,
+without more ado, was rationed out to the army.
+
+Instead of bringing the commissariat to the troops, the reverse plan was
+adopted; and the troops were marched upon their food--which had yet to
+be gathered before being eaten.
+
+Four-fifths of the little army were thus withdrawn from the fort,
+leaving rather a weak garrison; while a new stockade was extemporised on
+the general's plantation, under the title of "Fort Drane."
+
+There were slanderous people who insinuated that in this curious matter
+the good old general was moved by other motives than those of mere
+patriotism.  There was some talk about "Uncle Sam"--well-known as a
+solvent and liberal paymaster--being called upon to give a good price
+for the general's corn; besides, so long as an army bivouacked upon his
+plantation, no danger need be apprehended from the Indian incendiaries.
+Perhaps these insinuations were but the conceits of camp satire.
+
+I was not among those transferred to the new station; I was not a
+favourite with the commander-in-chief, and no longer upon his staff.  My
+duties kept me at Fort King, where the commissioner also remained.
+
+The days passed tamely enough--whole weeks of them.  An occasional visit
+to Camp Drane was a relief to the monotony of garrison-life, but this
+was a rare occurrence.  The fort had been shorn of its strength, and was
+too weak for us to go much beyond its walls.  It was well-known that the
+Indians were in arms.  Traces of their presence had been observed near
+the post; and a hunting excursion, or even a romantic saunter in the
+neighbouring woods--the usual resources of a frontier station--could not
+have been made without some peril.
+
+During this period I observed that the commissioner was very careful in
+his outgoings and incomings.  He rarely passed outside the stockade, and
+never beyond the line of sentries.  Whenever he looked in the direction
+of the woods, or over the distant savanna, a shadow of distrust appeared
+to overspread his features, as though he was troubled with an
+apprehension of danger.  This was after the death of the traitor chief.
+He had heard of Osceola's vow to kill Omatla; perhaps he had also heard
+that the oath extended to himself; perhaps he was under the influence of
+a presentiment.
+
+Christmas came round.  At this season, wherever they may be found--
+whether amid the icy bergs of the north, or on the hot plains of the
+tropic--on board ship, within the walls of a fortress--ay, even in a
+prison--Christians incline to merry-making.  The frontier post is no
+exception to the general rule; and Fort King was a continued scene of
+festivities.  The soldiers were released from duty--alone the sentinels
+were kept to their posts; and, with such fare as could be procured,
+backed by liberal rations of "Monongahela," the week passed cheerily
+enough.
+
+A "sutler" in the American army is generally a thriving adventurer--with
+the officers liberal both of cash and credit--and, on festive occasions,
+not unfrequently their associate and boon companion.  Such was he, the
+sutler, at Fort King.
+
+On one of the festal days, he had provided a sumptuous dinner--no one
+about the fort so capable--to which the officers were invited--the
+commissioner himself being the honoured guest.
+
+The banquet was set out in the sutler's own house, which, as already
+mentioned, stood outside the stockade, several hundred yards off, and
+near to the edge of the woods.
+
+The dinner was over, and most of the officers had returned within the
+fort, where--as it was now getting near night--it was intended the
+smoking and wine-drinking should be carried on.
+
+The commissioner, with half a dozen others--officers and civilian
+visitors--still lingered to enjoy another glass under the hospitable
+roof where they had eaten their dinner.
+
+I was among those who went back within the fort.
+
+We had scarcely settled down in our seats, when we were startled by a
+volley of sharp cracks, which the ear well knew to be the reports of
+rifles.  At the same instant was heard that wild intonation, easily
+distinguishable from the shouting of civilised men--the war-cry of the
+Indians!
+
+We needed no messenger to inform us what the noises meant: the enemy was
+upon the ground, and had made an attack--we fancied upon the fort
+itself.
+
+We rushed into the open air, each arming himself as best he could.
+
+Once outside, we saw that the fort was not assailed; but upon looking
+over the stockade, we perceived that the house of the sutler was
+surrounded by a crowd of savages, plumed and painted in full fighting
+costume.  They were in quick motion, rushing from point to point,
+brandishing their weapons, and yelling the _Yo-ho-ehee_.
+
+Straggling shots were still heard as the fatal gun was pointed at some
+victim endeavouring to escape.  The gates of the fort were standing wide
+open, and soldiers, who had been strolling outside, now rushed through,
+uttering shouts of terror as they passed in.
+
+The sutler's house was at too great a distance for the range of
+musketry.  Some shots were discharged by the sentries and others who
+chanced to be armed, but the bullets fell short.
+
+The artillerists ran to their guns; but on reaching these, it was found
+that the stables--a row of heavy log-houses--stood directly in the range
+of the sutler's house--thus sheltering the enemy from the aim of the
+gunners.
+
+All at once the shouting ceased, and the crowd of dusky warriors was
+observed moving off towards the woods.
+
+In a few seconds they had disappeared among the trees--vanishing, as if
+by magic, from our sight.
+
+He who commanded at the fort--an officer slow of resolve--now mustered
+the garrison, and ventured a sortie.  It extended only to the house of
+the sutler, where a halt was made, while we contemplated the horrid
+scene.
+
+The sutler himself, two young officers, several soldiers and civilians,
+lay upon the floor dead, each with many wounds.
+
+Conspicuous above all was the corpse of the commissioner.  He was lying
+upon his back, his face covered with gore, and his uniform torn and
+bloody.  Sixteen bullets had been fired into his body; and a wound more
+terrible than all was observed over the left breast.  It was the gash
+made by a knife, whose blade had passed through his heart.
+
+I could have guessed who gave that wound, even without the living
+testimony that was offered on the spot.  A negress--the cook--who had
+concealed herself behind a piece of furniture, now came forth from her
+hiding-place.  She had been witness of all.  She was acquainted with the
+person of Osceola.  It was he who had conducted the tragedy; he had been
+the last to leave the scene; and before taking his departure, the
+negress had observed him give that final stab--no doubt in satisfaction
+of the deadly vow he had made.
+
+After some consultation, a pursuit was determined upon, and carried out
+with considerable caution; but, as before, it proved fruitless: as
+before, even the track by which the enemy had retreated could not be
+discovered!
+
+
+
+CHAPTER SIXTY FIVE.
+
+"DADE'S MASSACRE."
+
+This melancholy finale to the festivities of Christmas was, if possible,
+rendered more sad by a rumour that shortly after reached Fort King.  It
+was the rumour of an event, which has since become popularly known as
+"Dade's massacre."
+
+The report was brought by an Indian runner--belonging to one of the
+friendly clans--but the statements made were of so startling a
+character, that they were at first received with a cry of incredulity.
+
+Other runners, however, continuously arriving, confirmed the account of
+the first messenger, until his story--tragically improbable as it
+appeared--was accepted as truth.  It was true in all its romantic
+colouring; true in all its sanguinary details.  The war had commenced in
+real earnest, inaugurated by a conflict of the most singular kind--
+singular both in character and result.
+
+An account of this battle is perhaps of sufficient interest to be given.
+
+In the early part of this narrative, it has been mentioned that an
+officer of the United States army gave out the vaunt that he "could
+march through all the Seminole reserve with only a corporal's guard at
+his back."  That officer was Major Dade.
+
+It was the destiny of Major Dade to find an opportunity for giving proof
+of his warlike prowess--though with something more than a corporal's
+guard at his back.  The result was a sad contrast to the boast he had so
+thoughtlessly uttered.
+
+To understand this ill-fated enterprise, it is necessary to say a word
+topographically of the country.
+
+On the west coast of the peninsula of Florida is a bay called "Tampa"--
+by the Spaniards, "Espiritu Santo."  At the head of this bay was erected
+"Fort Brooke"--a stockade similar to Fort King, and lying about ninety
+miles from the latter, in a southerly direction.  It was another of
+those military posts established in connection with the Indian reserve--
+a depot for troops and stores--also an entrepot for such as might arrive
+from the ports of the Mexican gulf.
+
+About two hundred soldiers were stationed here at the breaking out of
+hostilities.  They were chiefly artillery, with a small detachment of
+infantry.
+
+Shortly after the fruitless council at Fort King, these troops--or as
+many of them as could be spared--were ordered by General Clinch to
+proceed to the latter place, and unite with the main body of the army.
+
+In obedience to these orders, one hundred men with their quota of
+officers, were set in motion for Fort King.  Major Dade commanded the
+detachment.
+
+On the eve of Christmas, 1835, they had taken the route, marching out
+from Fort Brooke in high spirits, buoyant with the hope of encountering
+and winning laurels in a fight with the Indian foe.  They flattered
+themselves that it would be the first conflict of the war, and
+therefore, that in which the greatest reputation would be gained by the
+victors.  They dreamt not of defeat.
+
+With flags flying gaily, drums rolling merrily, bugles sounding the
+advance, cannon pealing their farewell salute, and comrades cheering
+them onwards, the detachment commenced its march--that fatal march from
+which it was destined never to return.
+
+Just seven days after--on the 31st of December--a man made his
+appearance at the gates of Fort Brooke, crawling upon his hands and
+knees.  In his tattered attire could scarcely be recognised the uniform
+of a soldier--a private of Dade's detachment--for such he was.  His
+clothes were saturated with water from the creeks, and soiled with mud
+from the swamps.  They were covered with dust, and stained with blood.
+His body was wounded in five places--severe wounds all--one in the right
+shoulder, one in the right thigh, one near the temple, one in the left
+arm, and another in the back.  He was wan, wasted, emaciated to the
+condition of a skeleton, and presented the aspect of one.  When, in a
+weak, trembling voice, he announced himself as "Private Clark of the 2nd
+Artillery," his old comrades had with difficulty identified him.
+
+Shortly after, two others--privates Sprague and Thomas--made their
+appearance in a similar plight.  Their report was similar to that
+already delivered by Clark: that Major Dade's command had been attacked
+by the Indians, cut to pieces, massacred to a man--that they themselves
+were the sole survivors of that band who had so lately gone forth from
+the fort in all the pride of confident strength, and the hopeful
+anticipation of glory.
+
+And their story was true to the letter.  Of all the detachment, these
+three miserable remnants of humanity alone escaped; the others--one
+hundred and six in all--had met death on the banks of the Amazura.
+Instead of the laurel, they had found the cypress.
+
+The three who escaped had been struck down and left for dead upon the
+field.  It was only by counterfeiting death, they had succeeded in
+afterwards crawling from the ground, and making their way back to the
+fort.  Most of this journey Clark performed upon his hands and knees,
+proceeding at the rate of a mile to the hour, over a distance of more
+than sixty miles!
+
+
+
+CHAPTER SIXTY SIX.
+
+THE BATTLE-GROUND.
+
+The affair of Dade's massacre is without a parallel in the history of
+Indian warfare.  No conflict of a similar kind had ever occurred--at
+least, none so fatal to the whites engaged in it.  In this case they
+suffered complete annihilation--for, of the three wounded men who had
+escaped, two of them shortly after died of their wounds.
+
+Nor had the Indians any great advantage over their antagonists, beyond
+that of superior cunning and strategy.
+
+It was near the banks of the Amazura ["Ouithlacoochee" of the
+Seminoles], and after crossing that stream, that Major Dade's party had
+been attacked.  The assault was made in ground comparatively open--a
+tract of pine-woods, where the trees grew thin and straggling--so that
+the Indians had in reality no great advantage either from position or
+intrenchment.  Neither has it been proved that they were greatly
+superior in numbers to the troops they destroyed--not more than two to
+one; and this proportion in most Indian wars has been considered by
+their white antagonists as only "fair odds."
+
+Many of the Indians appeared upon the ground mounted; but these remained
+at a distance from the fire of the musketry; and only those on foot took
+part in the action.  Indeed, their conquest was so soon completed, that
+the horsemen were not needed.  The first fire was so deadly, that Dade's
+followers were driven into utter confusion.  They were unable to
+retreat: the mounted Indians had already outflanked them, and cut off
+their chance of escape.
+
+Dade himself, with most of his officers, fell at the first volley; and
+the survivors had no choice but fight it out on the ground.  A
+breastwork was attempted--by felling trees, and throwing their trunks
+into a triangle--but the hot fire from the Indian rifles soon checked
+the progress of the work; and the parapet never rose even breast-high
+above the ground.  Into this insecure shelter the survivors of the first
+attack retreated, and there fell rapidly under the well-aimed missiles
+of their foes.  In a short while the last man lay motionless; and the
+slaughter was at an end.
+
+When the place was afterwards visited by our troops, this triangular
+inclosure was found, filled with dead bodies--piled upon one another,
+just as they had fallen--crosswise, lengthways, in every attitude of
+death!
+
+It was afterwards noised abroad that the Indians had inhumanly tortured
+the wounded, and horribly mutilated the slain.  This was not true.
+There were no wounded left to be tortured--except the three who
+escaped--and as for the mutilation, but one or two instances of this
+occurred--since known to have been the work of runaway negroes actuated
+by motives of personal revenge.
+
+Some scalps were taken; but this is the well-known custom of Indian
+warfare; and white men ere now have practised the fashion, while under
+the frenzied excitement of battle.
+
+I was one of those who afterwards visited the battle-ground on a tour of
+inspection, ordered by the commander-in-chief; and the official report
+of that tour is the best testimony as to the behaviour of the victors.
+It reads as follows:
+
+"Major Dade and his party were destroyed on the morning of the 28th of
+December, about four miles from their camp of the preceding night.  They
+were advancing in column of route when they were attacked by the enemy,
+who rose in a swarm out of the cover of long grass and palmettoes.  The
+Indians suddenly appeared close to their files.  Muskets were clubbed,
+knives and bayonets used, and parties clenched in deadly conflict.  In
+the second attack, our own men's muskets, taken from the dead and
+wounded, were used against them; a cross-fire cut down a succession of
+artillerists, when the cannon were taken, the carriages broken and
+burned, and the guns rolled into a pond.  Many negroes were in the
+field; but no scalps were taken by the Indians.  On the other hand, the
+negroes, with hellish cruelty, pierced the throats of all whose cries or
+groans shewed that there was still life in them."
+
+Another official report runs thus:
+
+We approached the battle-field from the rear.  Our advanced guard had
+passed the ground without halting when the commanding officer and his
+staff came upon one of the most appalling scenes that can be imagined.
+We first saw some broken and scattered boxes; then a cart, the two oxen
+of which were lying dead, as if they had fallen asleep, their yokes
+still on them: a little to the right, one or two horses were seen.  We
+next came to a small inclosure, made by felling trees, in such a manner
+as to form a triangular breastwork.  Within the triangle--along the
+north and west faces of it--were about thirty bodies, mostly mere
+skeletons, although much of the clothing was left upon them.  They were
+lying in the positions they must have occupied during the fight.  Some
+had fallen over their dead comrades, but most of them lay close to the
+logs, with their heads turned towards the breastwork, over which they
+had delivered their fire, and their bodies stretched with striking
+regularity parallel to each other.  They had evidently been shot dead at
+their posts, and the Indians had not disturbed them, except by taking
+the scalps of some--which, it is said, was done by their negro allies.
+The officers were all easily recognised.  Some still wore their rings
+and breastpins, and money was found in their pockets!  The bodies of
+eight officers and ninety-eight men were interred.
+
+"It may be proper to observe that the attack was not made from a
+hommock, but in a thinly-wooded country--the Indians being concealed by
+palmettoes and grass."
+
+From this report, it appears that the Indians were fighting--not for
+plunder, not even from motives of diabolical revenge.  Their motive was
+higher and purer--it was the defence of their country--of their hearths
+and homes.
+
+The advantage they had over the troop of Major Dade was simply that of
+ambush and surprise.  This officer, though a man of undoubted gallantry,
+was entirely wanting in those qualities necessary to a leader--
+especially one engaged against such a foe.  He was a mere book-soldier--
+as most officers are--lacking the genius which enables the great
+military chieftain to adapt himself to the circumstances that surround
+him.  He conducted the march of his detachment as if going upon parade;
+and by so doing he carried it into danger and subsequent destruction.
+
+But if the commander of the whites in this fatal affair was lacking in
+military capacity, the leader of the Indians was not.  It soon became
+known that he who planned the ambush and conducted it to such a
+sanguinary and successful issue, was the young chief of the Baton
+Rouge--Osceola.
+
+He could not have stayed long upon the ground to enjoy his triumph.  It
+was upon that same evening, at Fort King--forty miles distant from the
+scene of Dade's massacre--that the commissioner fell before his vow of
+vengeance!
+
+
+
+CHAPTER SIXTY SEVEN.
+
+THE BATTLE OF "OUITHLACOOCHEE."
+
+The murder of the commissioner called for some act of prompt
+retribution.  Immediately after its occurrence, several expresses had
+been dispatched by different routes to Camp Drane--some of whom fell
+into the hands of the enemy, while the rest arrived safely with the
+news.
+
+By daybreak of the following morning the army, more than a thousand
+strong, was in motion; and marching towards the Amazura.  The avowed
+object of this expedition was to strike a blow at the _families_ of the
+hostile Indians--their fathers and mothers, their wives, sisters and
+children--whose lurking-place amidst the fastnesses of the great swamp--
+the "Cove"--had become known to the general.  It was intended they
+should be _captured, if possible_, and held as hostages until the
+warriors could be induced to surrender.
+
+With all others who could be spared from the fort, I was ordered to
+accompany the expedition, and accordingly joined it upon the march.
+From the talk I heard around me, I soon discovered the sentiment of the
+soldiery.  They had but little thought of making captives.  Exasperated
+by what had taken place at the fort--further exasperated by what they
+called "Dade's massacre," I felt satisfied that they would not stay to
+take prisoners--old men or young men, women or children, all would alike
+be slain--no quarter would be given.
+
+I was sick even at the prospect of such a wholesale carnage as was
+anticipated.  Anticipated, I say, for all confidently believed it would
+take place.  The hiding-place of these unfortunate families had become
+known--there were guides conducting us thither who knew the very spot--
+how could we fail to reach it?
+
+An easy surprise was expected.  Information had been received that the
+warriors, or most of them, were absent upon another and more distant
+expedition, and in a quarter where we could not possibly encounter them.
+We were to make a descent upon the nest in the absence of the eagles;
+and with this intent the army was conducted by silent and secret
+marches.
+
+But the day before, our expedition would have appeared easy enough--a
+mere exciting frolic, without peril of any kind; but the news of Dade's
+defeat had produced a magical effect upon the spirits of the soldiers,
+and whilst it exasperated, it had also cowed them.  For the first time,
+they began to feel something like a respect for their foe, mingled
+perhaps with a little dread of him.  The Indians, at least, knew how to
+kill.
+
+This feeling increased as fresh messengers came in from the scene of
+Dade's conflict, bringing new details of that sanguinary affair.  It was
+not without some apprehension, then, that the soldier marched onwards,
+advancing into the heart of the enemy's country; and even the reckless
+volunteer kept close in the ranks as he rode silently along.
+
+About mid-day we reached the banks of the Amazura.  The stream had to be
+crossed before the Cove could be reached, for the vast network of swamps
+and lagoons bearing this name extended from the opposite side.
+
+A ford had been promised the general, but the guides were at fault--no
+crossing-place could be found.  At the point where we reached it, the
+river ran past, broad, black, and deep--too deep to be waded even by our
+horses.
+
+Were the guides playing traitor, and misleading us?  It certainly began
+to assume that appearance; but no--it could not be.  They were Indians,
+it is true, but well proved in their devotion to the whites.  Besides,
+they were men compromised with the national party--doomed to death by
+their own people--our defeat would have been their ruin.
+
+It was not treason, as shewn afterwards--they had simply been deceived
+by the trails, and had gone the wrong way.
+
+It was fortunate for us they had done so!  But for this mistake of the
+guides, the army of General Clinch might have been called upon to repeat
+on a larger scale the drama so lately enacted by Dade and his
+companions.
+
+Had we reached the true crossing, some two miles further down, we should
+have entered an ambush of the enemy, skillfully arranged by that same
+leader who so well understood his forest tactics.  The report of the
+warriors having gone on a distant expedition was a mere _ruse_, the
+prelude to a series of strategic manoeuvres devised by Osceola.
+
+The Indians were at that moment where we should have been, but for the
+mistake of the guides.  The ford was beset upon both sides by the foe--
+the warriors lying unseen like snakes among the grass, ready to spring
+forth the moment we should attempt the crossing.  Fortunate it was for
+Clinch and his army that our guides possessed so little skill.
+
+The general acted without this knowledge at the time--else, had he known
+the dangerous proximity, his behaviour might have been different.  As it
+was, a halt was ordered; and, after some deliberation, it was determined
+we should cross the river at the point where the army had arrived.
+
+Some old boats were found, "scows," with a number of Indian canoes.
+These would facilitate the transport of the infantry, while the mounted
+men could swim over upon their horses.
+
+Rafts of logs were soon knocked together, and the passage of the stream
+commenced.  The manoeuvre was executed with considerable adroitness, and
+in less than an hour one half of the command had crossed.
+
+I was among those who got first over; but I scarcely congratulated
+myself on the success of the enterprise.  I felt sad at the prospect of
+being soon called upon to aid in the slaughter of defenceless people--of
+women and children--for around me there was no other anticipation.  It
+was with a feeling of positive relief, almost of joy, that I heard that
+wild war-cry breaking through the woods--the well-known Yo-ho-ehee of
+the Seminoles.
+
+Along with it came the ringing detonations of rifles, the louder report
+of musketry; while bullets, whistling through the air, and breaking
+branches from the surrounding trees, told us that we were assailed in
+earnest, and by a large force of the enemy.
+
+That portion of the army already over had observed the precaution to
+post itself in a strong position among heavy timber that grew near the
+river-bank; and on this account the first volley of the Indians produced
+a less deadly effect.  For all that, several fell; and those who were
+exposed to view were still in danger.
+
+The fire was returned by the troops, repeated by the Indians, and again
+answered by the soldiers--now rolling continuously, now in straggling
+volleys or single shots, and at intervals altogether ceasing.
+
+For a long while but little damage was done on either side; but it was
+evident that the Indians, under cover of the underwood, were working
+themselves into a more advantageous position--in fact, _surrounding_ us.
+The troops, on the other hand, dare not stir from the spot where they
+had landed, until a larger number should cross over.  After that it was
+intended we should advance, and force the Indians from the covert at the
+point of the bayonet.
+
+The troops from the other side continued to cross.  Hitherto, they had
+been protected by the fire of those already over; but at this crisis a
+manoeuvre was effected by the Indians, that threatened to put an end to
+the passing of the river, unless under a destructive fire from their
+rifles.
+
+Just below our position, a narrow strip of land jutted out into the
+stream, forming a miniature peninsula.  It was a sand-bar caused by an
+eddy on the opposite side.  It was lower than the main bank, and bare of
+timber--except at its extreme point, where a sort of island had been
+formed, higher than the peninsula itself.
+
+On this island grew a thick grove of evergreen trees--palms, live-oaks,
+and magnolias--in short, a hommock.
+
+It would have been prudent for us to have occupied this hommock at the
+moment of our first crossing over; but our general had not perceived the
+advantage.  The Indians were not slow in noticing it; and before we
+could take any steps to hinder them, a body of warriors rushed across
+the isthmus, and took possession of the hommock.
+
+The result of this skillful manoeuvre was soon made manifest.  The
+boats, in crossing, were swept down by the current within range of the
+wooded islet--out of whose evergreen shades was now poured a continuous
+stream of blue fiery smoke, while the leaden missiles did their work of
+death.  Men were seen dropping down upon the rafts, or tumbling over the
+sides of the canoes, with a heavy plunge upon the water, that told they
+had ceased to live; while the thick fire of musketry that was directed
+upon the hommock altogether failed to dislodge the daring band who
+occupied it.
+
+There were but few of them--for we had seen them distinctly as they ran
+over the isthmus--but it was evident they were a chosen few, skilled
+marksmen every man.  They were dealing destruction at every shot.
+
+It was a moment of intense excitement.  Elsewhere the conflict was
+carried on with more equality--since both parties fought under cover of
+the trees, and but little injury was sustained or inflicted by either.
+The band upon the islet were killing more of our men than all the rest
+of the enemy.
+
+There was no other resource than to dislodge them from the hommock--to
+drive them forth at the bayonet's point--at least this was the design
+that now suggested itself to the commander-in-chief.
+
+It seemed a forlorn hope.  Whoever should approach from the land-side
+would receive the full fire of the concealed enemy--be compelled to
+advance under a fearful risk of life.
+
+To my surprise, the duty was assigned to myself.  Why, I know not--since
+it could not be from any superior courage or ardour I had hitherto
+evinced in the campaign.  But the order came from the general, direct
+and prompt; and with no great spirit I prepared to execute it.
+
+With a party of rifles--scarcely outnumbering the enemy we were to
+attack at such a serious disadvantage--I started forth for the
+peninsula.
+
+I felt as if marching upon my death, and I believe that most of those
+who followed me were the victims of a similar presentiment.  Even though
+it had been a certainty, we could not now turn back; the eyes of the
+whole army were upon us.  We must go forwards--we must conquer or fall.
+
+In a few seconds we were upon the island, and advancing by rapid strides
+towards the hommock.  We had hopes that the Indians might not have
+perceived our approach, and that we should get behind them unawares.
+
+They were vain hopes.  Our enemies had been watchful; they had observed
+our manoeuvre from its beginning; had faced round, and were waiting with
+rifles loaded, ready to receive us.
+
+But half conscious of our perilous position, we pressed forwards and had
+got within twenty yards of the grove, when the blue smoke and red flame
+suddenly jetted forth from the trees.  I heard the bullets shower past
+my ears; I heard the cries and groans of my followers, as they fell
+thickly behind me.  I looked around--I saw that every one of them was
+stretched upon the ground, dead or dying!
+
+At the same instant a voice reached me from the grove:
+
+"Go back, Randolph! go back!  By that symbol upon your breast your life
+has been spared; but my braves are chafed, and their blood is hot with
+fighting.  Tempt not their anger.  Away! away!"
+
+
+
+CHAPTER SIXTY EIGHT.
+
+A VICTORY ENDING IN A RETREAT.
+
+I saw not the speaker, who was completely hidden behind the thick
+trellis of leaves.  It was not necessary I should see him, to know who
+addressed me; on hearing the voice I instantly recognised it.  It was
+Osceola who spoke.
+
+I cannot describe my sensations at that moment, nor tell exactly how I
+acted.  My mind was in a chaos of confusion--surprise and fear mingling
+alike in my emotions.
+
+I remember facing once more towards my followers.  I saw that they were
+not all dead--some were still lying where they had fallen, doubled up,
+or stretched out in various attitudes of death--motionless--beyond
+doubt, lifeless.  Some still moved, their cries for help showing that
+life was not extinct.
+
+To my joy, I observed several who had regained their feet, and were
+running, or rather scrambling, rapidly away from the ground; and still
+another few who had risen into half-erect attitudes, and were crawling
+off upon their hands and knees.
+
+These last were still being fired upon from the bushes; and as I stood
+wavering, I saw one or two of them levelled along the grass by the fatal
+bullets that rained thickly around me.
+
+Among the wounded who lay at my feet, there was a young fellow whom I
+knew.  He appeared to be shot through both limbs, and could not move his
+body from the spot.  His appeal to me for help was the first thing that
+aroused me from my indecision; I remembered that this young man had once
+done me a service.
+
+Almost mechanically, I bent down, grasped him around the waist, and
+raising his body, commenced dragging him away.
+
+With my burden I hurried back across the isthmus--as fast as my strength
+would permit--nor did I stop till beyond the range of the Indian rifles.
+Here I was met by a party of soldiers, sent to cover our retreat.  In
+their hands I left my disabled comrade, and hastened onward to deliver
+my melancholy report to the commander-in-chief.
+
+My tale needed no telling.  Our movement had been watched, and our
+discomfiture was already known throughout the whole army.
+
+The general said not a word; and, without giving time for explanation,
+ordered me to another part of the field.
+
+All blamed his imprudence in having ordered such a desperate charge--
+especially with so small a force.  For myself, I had gained the credit
+of a bold leader; but how I chanced to be the only one, who came back
+unscathed out of that deadly fire, was a puzzle which at that moment I
+did not choose to explain.
+
+For an hour or more the fight continued to be carried on, in the shape
+of a confused skirmish among swamps and trees, without either party
+gaining any material advantage.  Each held the position it had taken
+up--though the Indians retained the freedom of the forest beyond.  To
+have retired from ours, would have been the ruin of the whole army;
+since there was no other mode of retreat, but by recrossing the stream,
+and that could only have been effected under the fire of the enemy.
+
+And yet to hold our position appeared equally ruinous.  We could effect
+nothing by being thus brought to a stand-still, for we were actually
+besieged upon the bank of the river.  We had vainly endeavoured to force
+the Indians from the bush.  Having once failed, a second attempt to cut
+our way through them would be a still more perilous emprise; and yet to
+remain stationary had also its prospects of danger.  With scanty
+provisions, the troops had marched out of their cantonments.  Their
+rations were already exhausted--hunger stared the army in the face.  Its
+pangs were already felt, and every hour would render them more severe.
+
+We began to believe that we were _besieged_; and such was virtually the
+fact.  Around us in a semi-circle swarmed the savages, each behind his
+protecting tree--thus forming a defensive line equal in strength to a
+fortified intrenchment.  Such could not be forced, without the certainty
+of great slaughter among our men.
+
+We perceived, too, that the number of our enemies was hourly increasing.
+A peculiar cry--which some of the old "Indian fighters" understood--
+heard at intervals, betokened the arrival of fresh parties of the foe.
+We felt the apprehension that we were being outnumbered, and might soon
+be overpowered.  A gloomy feeling was fast spreading itself through the
+ranks.
+
+During the skirmishes that had already occurred, we noticed that many of
+the Indians were armed with fusils and muskets.  A few were observed in
+uniform, with military accoutrements!  One--a conspicuous leader--was
+still more singularly attired.  From his shoulders was suspended a large
+silken flag, after the fashion of a Spanish cloak of the times of the
+_conquistadores_.  Its stripes of alternate red and white, with the blue
+starry field at the corner, were conspicuous.  Every eye in the army
+looked upon it, and recognised in the fantastic draping, thus tauntingly
+displayed, the loved flag of our country.
+
+These symbols were expressive.  They did not puzzle us.  Their presence
+among our enemies was easily explained.  The flag, the muskets and
+fusils, the uniforms and equipments, were trophies from the battle-field
+where Dade had fallen.
+
+Though the troops regarded these objects with bitter indignation, their
+anger was impotent: the hour for avenging the disastrous fate of their
+comrades had not yet arrived.
+
+It is not improbable we might have shared their destiny, had we remained
+much longer upon the ground; but a plan of retreat offered, of which our
+general was not loath to take advantage.  It was the happy idea of a
+volunteer officer--an old campaigner of the "Hickory" wars--versed in
+the tactics of Indian fighting.
+
+By his advice, a feint was made by the troops who had not yet crossed--
+the volunteers.  It was a pretended attempt to effect the passage of the
+river at a point higher up stream.  It was good strategy.  Had such a
+passage been possible, it would have brought the enemy between two
+fires, and thus put an end to the "surround;" but a crossing was not
+intended--only a ruse.
+
+It had the effect designed; the Indians were deceived by it, and rushed
+in a body up the bank to prevent the attempt at crossing.  Our
+beleaguered force took advantage of their temporary absence; and the
+"regulars," making an adroit use of the time, succeeded in getting back
+to the "safe side" of the river.  The wily foe was too prudent to follow
+us; and thus ended the "battle of the Ouithlacoochee."
+
+In the hurried council that was held, there was no two opinions as to
+what course of action we should pursue.  The proposal to march back to
+Fort King was received with a wonderful unanimity; and, with little loss
+of time, we took the route, and arrived without farther molestation at
+the fort.
+
+
+
+CHAPTER SIXTY NINE.
+
+ANOTHER "SWAMP-FIGHT."
+
+After this action, a complete change was observed in the spirit of the
+army.  Boasting was heard no more; and the eagerness of the troops to be
+led against the enemy was no longer difficult to restrain.  No one
+expressed desire for a second expedition across the Ouithlacoochee, and
+the "Cove" was to remain unexplored until the arrival of reinforcements.
+The volunteers were disheartened, wearied of the campaign, and not a
+little cowed by the resistance they had so unexpectedly encountered--
+bold and bloody as it was unlooked for.  The enemy, hitherto despised,
+if it had aroused by its conduct a strong feeling of exasperation and
+vengeance, had also purchased the privilege of respect.
+
+The battle of the Ouithlacoochee cost the United States army nearly a
+hundred men.  The Seminole loss was believed to be much greater; though
+no one could give a better authority for this belief than that of a
+"guess."  No one had _seen_ the enemy's slain; but this was accounted
+for by the assertion, that during the fight they _had carried their dead
+and wounded from the field_!
+
+How often has this absurd allegation appeared in the dispatches of
+generals both victorious and defeated!  It is the usual explanation of a
+battle-field found too sparsely strewn by the bodies of the foe.  The
+very possibility of such an operation argues either an easy conflict, or
+a strong attachment between comrade and comrade--too strong, indeed, for
+human nature.  With some fighting experience, I can affirm that I never
+saw a _dead_ body, either of comrade or foeman, moved from the ground
+where he had fallen, so long as there was a shot ringing upon the ear.
+
+In the battle of the Ouithlacoochee, no doubt some of our enemies had
+"bit the dust;" but their loss was much less than that of our own
+troops.  For myself--and I had ample opportunity for observation--I
+could not swear to a single "dead Indian;" nor have I met with a comrade
+who could.
+
+Notwithstanding this, historians have chronicled the affair as a grand
+"victory," and the dispatch of the commander-in-chief is still extant--a
+curious specimen of warlike literature.  In this document may be found
+the name of almost every officer engaged, each depicted as a peerless
+hero!  A rare monument of vanity and boasting.
+
+To speak the honest truth, we had been well "whipped" by the red skins;
+and the chagrin of the army was only equalled by its exasperation.
+
+Clinch, although esteemed a kind general--the "soldier's friend," as
+historians term him--was no longer regarded as a great warrior.  His
+glory had departed.  If Osceola owed _him_ any spite, he had reason to
+be satisfied with what he had accomplished, without molesting the "old
+veteran" further.  Though still living, he was dead to fame.
+
+------------------------------------------------------------------------
+
+A fresh commander-in-chief now made his appearance, and hopes of victory
+were again revived.  The new general was Gaines, another of the
+"veterans" produced by seniority of rank.  He had not been ordered by
+the Government upon this especial duty; but Florida being part of his
+military district, had volunteered to take the guidance of the war.
+
+Like his predecessor, Gaines expected to reap a rich harvest of laurels,
+and, like the former, was he doomed to disappointment.  Again, it was
+the cypress wreath.
+
+Without delay, our army--reinforced by fresh troops from Louisiana and
+elsewhere--was put in motion, and once more marched upon the "Cove."
+
+We reached the banks of the Amazura, but never crossed that fatal
+stream--equally fatal to our glory as our lives.  This time, _the
+Indians crossed_.
+
+Almost upon the ground of the former action--with the difference that it
+was now upon the nether bank of the stream--we were attacked by the red
+warriors; and, after some hours of sharp skirmishing, compelled to
+shelter our proud battalions within the protecting pickets of a
+stockade!  Within this inclosure we were besieged for a period of nine
+days, scarcely daring to trust ourselves outside the wooden walls.
+Starvation no longer stared us in the face--it had actually come upon
+us; and but for the _horses_ we had hitherto bestrode--with whose flesh
+we were fain to satisfy the cravings of our appetites--one half the army
+of "Camp Izard" would have perished of hunger.
+
+We were saved from destruction by the timely arrival of a large force
+that had been dispatched to our rescue under Clinch, still commanding
+his brigade.  Having marched direct from Fort King, our former general
+had the good fortune to approach the enemy from their rear, and, by
+surprising our besiegers, disentangled us from our perilous situation.
+
+The day of our delivery was memorable by a singular incident--an
+armistice of a peculiar character.
+
+Early in the morning, while it was yet dark, a voice was heard hailing
+us from a distance, in a loud "Ho there!--Halloa!"
+
+It came from the direction of the enemy--since we were _surrounded_, it
+could not be otherwise--but the peculiar phraseology led to the hope
+that Clinch's brigade had arrived.
+
+The hail was repeated, and answered; but the hope of a rescue vanished
+when the stentorian voice was recognised as that of Abram, the black
+chief, and quondam interpreter of the council.
+
+"What do you want?" was the interrogatory ordered by the
+commander-in-chief.
+
+"A talk," came the curt reply.
+
+"For what purpose?"
+
+"We want to stop fighting."
+
+The proposal was agreeable as unexpected.  What could it mean?  Were the
+Indians starring, like ourselves, and tired of hostilities?  It was
+probable enough: for what other reason should they desire to end the war
+so abruptly?  They had not yet been defeated, but, on the contrary,
+victorious in every action that had been fought.
+
+But one other motive could be thought of.  We were every hour expecting
+the arrival of Clinch's brigade.  Runners had reached the camp to say
+that he was near, and, reinforced by it, we should be not only strong
+enough to raise the siege, but to attack the Indians with almost a
+certainty of defeating them.  Perhaps they knew, as well as we, that
+Clinch was advancing, and were desirous of making terms before his
+arrival.
+
+The proposal for a "talk" was thus accounted for by the
+commander-in-chief, who was now in hopes of being able to strike a
+decisive blow.  His only apprehension was, that the enemy should
+retreat, before Clinch could get forward upon the field.  An armistice
+would serve to delay the Indians upon the ground; and without
+hesitation, the distant speaker was informed that the talk would be
+welcome.
+
+A meeting of _parlementaires_ from each side was arranged; the hour, as
+soon as it should be light.  There were to be three of the Indians, and
+three from the camp.
+
+A small savanna extended from the stockade.  At several hundred yards'
+distance it was bounded by the woods.  As soon as the day broke, we saw
+three men emerge from the timber, and advance into the open ground.
+They were Indian chiefs in full costume; they were the commissioners.
+All three were recognised from the camp--Abram, Coa Hajo, and Osceola.
+
+Outside musket-range, they halted, placing themselves side by side in
+erect attitudes, and facing the inclosure.
+
+Three officers, two of whom could speak the native tongue, were sent
+forth to meet them.  I was one of the deputation.
+
+In a few seconds we stood face to face with the hostile chiefs.
+
+
+
+CHAPTER SEVENTY.
+
+THE TALK.
+
+Before a word was uttered, all six of us shook hands--so far as
+appearance went, in the most friendly manner.  Osceola grasped mine
+warmly; as he did so, saying with a peculiar smile:
+
+"Ah, Randolph! friends sometimes meet in war as well as in peace."
+
+I knew to what he referred, but could only answer him with a significant
+look of gratitude.
+
+An orderly, sent to us with a message from the general, was seen
+approaching from the camp.  At the same instant, an Indian appeared
+coming out of the timber, and, keeping pace with the orderly,
+simultaneously with the latter arrived upon the ground.  The deputation
+was determined we should not outnumber it.
+
+As soon as the orderly had whispered his message, the "talk began."
+
+Abram was the spokesman on the part of the Indians, and delivered
+himself in his broken English.  The others merely signified their assent
+by a simple nod, or the affirmation "Ho;" while their negative was
+expressed by the exclamation "Cooree."
+
+"Do you white folk want to make peace?" abruptly demanded the negro.
+
+"Upon what terms?" asked the head of our party.
+
+"Da tarms we gib you are dese: you lay down arm, an' stop de war; your
+sogas go back, an' stay in dar forts: _we Indyen_ cross ober da
+Ouithlacoochee; an' from dis time forth, for ebber after, we make the
+grand ribber da line o' boundary atween de two.  We promise lib in peace
+an' good tarms wi' all white neighbour.  Dat's all got say."
+
+"Brothers!" said our speaker in reply, "I fear these conditions will not
+be accepted by the white general, nor our great father, the president.
+I am commissioned to say, that the commander-in-chief can treat with you
+on no other conditions than those of your absolute submission, and under
+promise that you will now agree to the removal."
+
+"_Cooree! cooree_! never!" haughtily exclaimed Coa Hajo and Osceola in
+one breath, and with a determined emphasis, that proved they had no
+intention of offering to surrender.
+
+"An' what for we submit," asked the black, with some show of
+astonishment.  "We not conquered!  We conquer you ebbery fight--we whip
+you people, one, two, tree time--we whip you; dam! we kill you well too.
+What for we submit?  We come here gib condition--not ask um."
+
+"It matters little what has hitherto transpired," observed the officer
+in reply; "we are by far stronger than you--we must conquer you in the
+end."
+
+Again the two chiefs simultaneously cried "_Cooree_!"
+
+"May be, white men, you make big mistake 'bout our strength.  We not so
+weak you tink for--dam! no.  We show you our strength."
+
+As the negro said this, he turned inquiringly towards his comrades, as
+if to seek their assent to some proposition.
+
+Both seemed to grant it with a ready nod; and Osceola, who now assumed
+the leadership of the affair, faced towards the forest, at the same time
+giving utterance to a loud and peculiar intonation.
+
+The echoes of his voice had not ceased to vibrate upon the air, when the
+evergreen grove was observed to be in motion along: its whole edge; and
+the next instant, a line of dusky warriors shewed itself in the open
+ground.  They stepped forth a pace or two, then halted in perfect order
+of battle--so that their numbers could easily be told off from where we
+stood.
+
+"Count the red warriors!" cried Osceola, in a triumphant tone--"count
+them, and be no longer ignorant of the strength of your enemy."
+
+As the Indian uttered these words, a satirical smile played upon his
+lips; and he stood for some seconds confronting us in silence.
+
+"Now," continued he, once more pointing to his followers, "do yonder
+braves--there are fifteen hundred of them--do they look starving and
+submissive?  No! they are ready to continue the war till the blood of
+the last man sinks into the soil of his native land.  If they must
+perish, it will be here--here in Florida--in the land of their birth,
+upon the graves of their fathers.
+
+"We have taken up the rifle because you wronged us, and would drive us
+out.  For the wrongs we have had revenge.  We have killed many of your
+people, and we are satisfied with the vengeance we have taken.  We want
+to kill no more.  But about the removal, we have not changed our minds.
+We shall never change them.
+
+"We have made you a fair proposition: accept it, and in this hour the
+war shall cease; reject it, and more blood shall be spilled--ay, by the
+spirit of Wykome! rivers of blood shall flow.  The red poles of our
+lodges shall be painted again and again with the blood of our pale-faced
+foes.  Peace or war, then--you are welcome to your choice."
+
+As Osceola ceased speaking, he waved his hand towards his dusky warriors
+by the wood, who at the sign disappeared among the trees, silently,
+rapidly, almost mysteriously.
+
+A meet reply was being delivered to the passionate harangue of the young
+chief, when the speaker was interrupted by the report of musketry, heard
+in the direction of the Indians, but further off.  The shots followed
+each other in rapid succession, and were accompanied by shouts, that,
+though feebly borne from the far distance, could be distinguished as the
+charging cheers of men advancing into a battle.
+
+"Ha! foul play!" cried the chiefs in a breath; "pale-faced liars! you
+shall rue this treason;" and, without waiting to exchange another
+sentence, all three sprang off from the spot, and ran at full speed
+towards the covert of the woods.
+
+We turned back within the lines of the camp, where the shots had also
+been heard, and interpreted as the advance of Clinch's brigade attacking
+the Indian outposts in the rear.  We found the troops already mustered
+in battle-array, and preparing to issue forth from the stockade.  In a
+few minutes, the order was given, and the army marched forth, extending
+itself rapidly both right and left along the bank of the river.
+
+As soon as the formation was complete, the line advanced.  The troops
+were burning for revenge.  Cooped up as they had been for days,
+half-famished, and more than half disgraced, they had now an opportunity
+to retrieve their honour; and were fully bent upon the punishment of the
+savage foe.  With an army in their rear, rapidly closing upon them by an
+extended line--for this had been pre-arranged between the commanders--
+another similarly advancing upon their front, how could the Indians
+escape?  They must fight--they would be conquered at last.
+
+This was the expectation of all--officers and soldiers.  The
+commander-in-chief was himself in high spirits.  His strategic plan had
+succeeded.  The enemy was surrounded--entrapped; a great victory was
+before him--a "harvest of laurels."
+
+We marched forward.  We heard shots, but now only solitary or
+straggling.  We could not hear the well-known war-cry of the Indians.
+
+We continued to advance.  The hommocks were carried by a charge, but in
+their shady coverts we found no enemy.
+
+Surely they must still be before us--between our lines and those of the
+approaching reinforcement?  Is it possible they can have retreated--
+escaped?
+
+No!  Yonder they are--on the other side of the meadow--just coming out
+from the trees.  They are advancing to give us battle!  Now for the
+charge--now--
+
+Ha! those blue uniforms and white belts--those forage-caps and sabres--
+these are not Indians!  It is not the enemy!  They are our friends--the
+soldiers of Clinch's brigade!
+
+Fortunate it was that at that moment there was a mutual recognition,
+else might we have annihilated one another.
+
+
+
+CHAPTER SEVENTY ONE.
+
+MYSTERIOUS DISAPPEARANCE OF AN ARMY.
+
+The two divisions of the army now came together, and after a rapid
+council had been held between the commanders, continued scouring the
+field in search of our enemy.  Hours were spent in the search; but not
+an Indian foe could be found!
+
+Osceola had performed a piece of strategy unheard of in the annals of
+war.  He had carried an army of 1,600 men from between two others of
+nearly equal numbers, who had completely enfiladed him, without leaving
+a man upon the ground--ay, without leaving a trace of his retreat.  That
+host of Indian warriors, so lately observed in full battle-array, had
+all at once broken up into a thousand fragments, and, as if by magic,
+had melted out of sight.
+
+The enemy was gone, we knew not whither; and the disappointed generals
+once more marched their forces back to Fort King.
+
+------------------------------------------------------------------------
+
+The "dispersion," as it was termed, of the Indian army, was of course
+chronicled as another "victory."  It was a victory, however, that killed
+poor old Gaines--at least his military fame--and he was only too glad to
+retire from the command he had been so eager to obtain.
+
+------------------------------------------------------------------------
+
+A third general now took the field as commander-in-chief--an officer of
+more notoriety than either of his predecessors--Scott.  A lucky wound
+received in the old British wars, seniority of rank, a good deal of
+political buffoonery, but above all a free translation of the French
+"system of tactics," with the assumption of being their author, had kept
+General Scott conspicuously before the American public for a period of
+twenty years [Note 1].  He who could contrive such a system of military
+manoeuvring could not be otherwise than a great soldier; so reasoned his
+countrymen.
+
+Of course wonderful things were expected from the new
+commander-in-chief, and great deeds were promised.  He would deal with
+the savages in a different way from that adopted by his predecessors; he
+would soon put an end to the contemptible war.
+
+There was much rejoicing at the appointment; and preparations were made
+for a campaign on a far more extensive scale than had fallen to the lot
+of either of the chiefs who preceded him.  The army was doubled--almost
+trebled--the commissariat amply provided for, before the great general
+would consent to set foot upon the field.
+
+He arrived at length, and the army was put in motion.
+
+I am not going to detail the incidents of this campaign; there were none
+of sufficient importance to be chronicled, much less of sufficient
+interest to be narrated.  It consisted simply of a series of harassing
+marches, conducted with all the pomp and regularity of a parade review.
+The army was formed into three divisions, somewhat bombastically styled
+"right wing," "left wing," and "centre."  Thus formed, they were to
+approach the "Cove of the Ouithlacoochee"--again that fatal Cove--from
+three different directions, Fort King, Fort Brooke, and the Saint
+John's.  On arriving on the edge of the great swamp, each was to fire
+minute-guns as signals for the others, and then all three were to
+advance in converging lines towards the heart of the Seminole fastness.
+
+The absurd manoeuvre was carried out, and ended as might have been
+expected, in complete failure.  During the march, no man saw the face of
+a red Indian.  A few of their camps were discovered, but nothing more.
+The cunning warriors had heard the signal guns, and well understood
+their significance.  With such a hint of the position of their enemy,
+they had but little difficulty in making their retreat between the
+"wings."
+
+Perhaps the most singular, if not the most important, incident occurring
+in Scott's campaign was one which came very near costing me my life.  If
+not worthy of being given in detail, it merits mention as a curious case
+of "abandonment."
+
+While marching for the "Cove" with his centre wing, the idea occurred to
+our great commander to leave behind him, upon the banks of the Amazura,
+what he termed a "post of observation."  This consisted of a detachment
+of forty men--mostly our Suwanee volunteers, with their proportion of
+officers, myself among the number.
+
+We were ordered to fortify ourselves on the spot, and _stay_ there until
+we should be relieved from our duty, which was somewhat indefinitely
+understood even by him who was placed in command of us.  After giving
+these orders, the general, at the head of his "central wing," marched
+off, leaving us to our fate.
+
+Our little band was sensibly alive to the perilous position in which we
+were thus placed, and we at once set about making the best of it.  We
+felled trees, built a blockhouse, dug a well, and surrounded both with a
+strong stockade.
+
+Fortunately we were not _discovered_ by the enemy for nearly a week
+after the departure of the army, else we should most certainly have been
+destroyed to a man.  The Indians, in all probability, had followed the
+"centre wing," and thus for a time were carried out of our
+neighbourhood.
+
+On the sixth day, however, they made their appearance, and summoned us
+to surrender.
+
+We refused, and fought them--again, and again, at intervals, during a
+period of fifty days!
+
+Several of our men were killed or wounded; and among the former, the
+gallant chief of our devoted band, Holloman, who fell from a shot fired
+through the interstices of the stockade.
+
+Provisions had been left with us to serve us for _two weeks_; they were
+eked out to last for seven!  For thirty days we subsisted upon raw corn
+and water, with a few handfuls of acorns, which we contrived to gather
+from the trees growing within the inclosure.
+
+In this way we held out for a period of fifty days, and still no
+commander-in-chief--no army came to relieve us.  During all that gloomy
+siege, we never heard word of either; no white face ever showed itself
+to our anxious eyes, that gazed constantly outward.  We believed
+ourselves abandoned--forgotten.
+
+And such in reality was the fact--General Scott, in his eagerness to get
+away from Florida, had quite forgotten to relieve the "post of
+observation;" and others believing that we had long since perished, made
+no effort to send a rescue.
+
+Death from hunger stared us in the face, until at length the brave old
+hunter, Hickman, found his way through the lines of our besiegers, and
+communicated our situation to our "friends at home."
+
+His tale produced a strong excitement, and a force was dispatched to our
+relief, that succeeded in dispersing our enemies, and setting us free
+from our blockhouse prison.
+
+Thus terminated "Scott's campaign," and with it his command in Florida.
+The whole affair was a burlesque, and Scott was only saved from ridicule
+and the disgrace of a speedy recall, by a lucky accident, that fell in
+his favour.  Orders had already reached him to take control of another,
+"Indian war"--the "Creek"--that was just breaking out in the States of
+the southwest; and this afforded the discomfited general a well-timed
+excuse for retiring from the "Flowery Land."
+
+Florida was destined to prove to American generals a land of melancholy
+remembrances.  No less than seven of them were successively beaten at
+the game of Indian warfare by the Seminoles and their wily chieftains.
+It is not my purpose to detail the history of their failures and
+mishaps.  From the disappearance of General Scott, I was myself no
+longer with the main army.  My destiny conducted me through the more
+romantic by-ways of the campaign--the paths of _la petite guerre_--and
+of these only am I enabled to write.  Adieu, then, to the grand
+historic.
+
+------------------------------------------------------------------------
+
+Note 1.  Scott's whole career, political as well as military, had been a
+series of _faux pas_.  His campaign in Mexico will not bear criticism.
+The numerous blunders he there committed would have led to most fatal
+results, had they not been neutralised by the judgment of his inferior
+officers, and the indomitable valour of the soldiery.  The battle of
+Moline del Rey--the armistice with Santa Anna, were military errors
+unworthy of a cadet fresh from college.  I make bold to affirm that
+every action was a mob-fight--the result depending upon mere chance; or
+rather on the desperate bravery of the troops upon one side, and the
+infamous cowardice of those on the other.
+
+
+
+CHAPTER SEVENTY TWO.
+
+THE CONDITION OF BLACK JAKE.
+
+We had escaped from the blockhouse in boats, down the river to its
+mouth, and by sea to Saint Marks.  Thence the volunteers scattered to
+their homes--their term of service having expired.  They went as they
+listed; journeying alone, or in straggling squads of three and four
+together.
+
+One of these groups consisted of old Hickman the hunter, a companion of
+like kidney, myself, and my ever faithful henchman.
+
+Jake was no longer the "Black Jake" of yore.  A sad change had come over
+his external aspect.  His cheek-bones stood prominently out, while the
+cheeks themselves had fallen in; his eyeballs had retreated far within
+their sockets, and the neglected wool stood out over his temples in a
+thick frizzled shock.  His skin had lost its fine ebon polish, and
+showed distinct traces of corrugation.  Wherever "scratched" by his now
+elongated finger-nails, a whitish dandruffy surface was exhibited.
+
+The poor fellow had fared badly in the blockhouse; and three weeks of
+positive famine had played sad havoc with his outward man.
+
+Starvation, however, but little affected his spirits.  Throughout all,
+he had preserved his jovial mood, and his light humour often roused me
+from my despondency.  While gnawing the corn cob, and washing down the
+dry maize with a gourd of cold water, he would indulge in rapturous
+visions of "hominy and hog-meat," to be devoured whenever it should
+please fate to let him return to the "ole plantayshun."  Such delightful
+prospects of future enjoyment enabled him the better to endure the
+pinching present--for anticipation has its joys.  Now that we were free,
+and actually heading homewards; now that his visions were certain soon
+to become realities, Jake's jovialty could no longer be kept within
+bounds; his tongue was constantly in motion; his mouth ever open with
+the double tier of "ivories" displayed in a continuous smile; while his
+skin seemed to be rapidly recovering its dark oily lustre.
+
+Jake was the soul of our party, as we trudged wearily along; and his gay
+jokes affected even the staid old hunters, at intervals eliciting from
+both loud peals of laughter.--For myself I scarcely shared their mirth--
+only now and then, when the sallies of my follower proved irresistible.
+There was a gloom over my spirit, which I could not comprehend.
+
+It should have been otherwise.  I should have felt happy at the prospect
+of returning home--of once more beholding those who were dear--but it
+was not so.
+
+It had been so on my first getting free from our blockhouse prison; but
+this was only the natural reaction, consequent upon escape from what
+appeared almost certain death.  My joy had been short-lived: it was past
+and gone; and now that I was nearing my native home, dark shadows came
+over my soul; a presentiment was upon me that all was not well.
+
+I could in no way account for this feeling, for I had heard no evil
+tidings.  In truth, I had heard nothing of home or of friends for a
+period of nearly two months.  During our long siege, no communication
+had ever reached us; and at Saint Marks we met but slight news from the
+settlements of the Suwanee.  We were returning in ignorance of all that
+had transpired there during our absence--if aught _had_ transpired
+worthy of being known.
+
+This ignorance itself might have produced uncertainty, doubt, even
+apprehension; but it was not the sole cause of my presentiment.  Its
+origin was different.  Perhaps the recollection of my abrupt departure--
+the unsettled state in which I had left the affairs of our family--the
+parting scene, now vividly recalled--remembrances of Ringgold--
+reflections upon the wicked designs of this wily villain--all these may
+have contributed to form the apprehensions under which I was suffering.
+Two months was a long period; many events could happen within two
+months, even in the narrow circle of one's own family.  Long since it
+had been reported that I had perished at the hands of the Indian foe; I
+was believed to be dead, at home, wherever I was known; and the belief
+might have led to ill results.  Was my sister still true to her word, so
+emphatically pronounced in that hour of parting?  Was I returning home
+to find her still my loved sister?  Still single and free? or had she
+yielded to maternal solicitation, and become the wife of the vile
+caitiff after all?
+
+With such conjectures occupying my thoughts, no wonder I was not in a
+mood for merriment.  My companions noticed my dejection, and in their
+rude but kind way, rallied me as we rode along.  They failed, however,
+to make me cheerful like themselves.  I could not cast the load from my
+heart.  Try as I would, the presentiment lay heavy upon me, that all was
+not well.
+
+Alas, alas! the presentiment proved true--no, not true, but worse--worse
+than my worst apprehensions--worse even than that I had most feared.
+
+The news that awaited me was not of marriage, but of death--the death of
+my mother--and worse than death--horrid doubt of my sister's fate.
+Before reaching home, a messenger met me--one who told an appalling
+tale.
+
+The Indians had attacked the settlement, or rather my own plantation--
+for their foray had gone no further: my poor mother had fallen under
+their savage knives; my uncle too: and my sister?  _She had been carried
+off_!
+
+I stayed to hear no more; but, driving the spurs into my jaded horse,
+galloped forward like one suddenly smitten with madness.
+
+
+
+CHAPTER SEVENTY THREE.
+
+A BAD SPECTACLE.
+
+My rate of speed soon brought me within the boundaries of the
+plantation; and, without pausing to breathe my horse, I galloped on,
+taking the path that led most directly to the house.  It was not the
+main road, but a wood-path here and there closed up with "bars."  My
+horse was a spirited animal, and easily leaped over them.
+
+I met a man coming from the direction of the house--a white man--a
+neighbour.  He made motions as if to speak--no doubt, of the calamity.
+I did not stop to listen.  I had heard enough.  My eyes alone wanted
+satisfaction.
+
+I knew every turn of the path.  I knew the points where I should first
+come in sight of the house.
+
+I reached it, and looked forwards.  Father of mercy! there was no house
+to be seen!
+
+Half-bewildered, I reined up my horse.  I strained my eyes over the
+landscape--in vain--no house.
+
+Had I taken the wrong road, or was I looking in the wrong direction?
+No--no.  There stood the giant tulip-tree, that marked the embouchure of
+the path.  There stretched the savanna; beyond it the home-fields of
+indigo and maize; beyond these the dark wood-knoll of the hommock; but
+beyond this last there was nothing--nothing I could recognise.
+
+The whole landscape appeared to have undergone a change.  The gay white
+walls--the green _jalousies_--the cheerful aspect of home, that from
+that same spot had so often greeted me, returning hungry and wearied
+from the hunt--were no longer to be seen.  The sheds, the negro-cabins,
+the offices, even the palings had disappeared.  From their steads I
+beheld thick volumes of smoke ascending to the sky, and rolling over the
+sun till his disc was red.  The heavens were frowning upon me.
+
+From what I had already learned, the spectacle was easy of
+comprehension.  It caused no new emotion either of surprise or pain.  I
+was not capable of suffering more.
+
+Again putting my horse to his speed, I galloped across the fields
+towards the scene of desolation.
+
+As I neared the spot, I could perceive the forms of men moving about
+through the smoke.  There appeared to be fifty or a hundred of them.
+Their motions did not betoken excitement.  Only a few were moving at
+all, and these with a leisurely gait, that told they were not in action.
+The rest stood in groups, in lounging attitudes, evidently mere
+spectators of the conflagration.  They were making no attempt to
+extinguish the flames, which I now observed mingling with the smoke.  A
+few were rushing to and fro--most of them on horseback--apparently in
+the endeavour to catch some horses and cattle, that, having escaped from
+the burnt inclosure, were galloping over the fields, neighing and
+lowing.
+
+One might have fancied that the men around the fire were those who had
+caused it; and for a moment such an idea was in my mind.  The messenger
+had said that the foray had just taken place--that very morning at
+daybreak.  It was all I had heard, as I hurried away.
+
+It was yet early--scarcely an hour after sunrise--for we had been
+travelling by night to avoid the hot hours.  Were the savages still upon
+the ground?  Were those men Indians?  In the lurid light, amidst the
+smoke, chasing the cattle--as if with the intention of driving them
+off--the conjecture was probable enough.
+
+But the report said they had gone away: how else could the details have
+been known?--the murder of my mother, the rape of my poor sister?  With
+the savages still upon the ground, how had these facts been ascertained?
+
+Perhaps they had gone, and returned again to collect the booty, and fire
+the buildings?  For an instant such fancies were before my mind.
+
+They had no influence in checking my speed.  I never thought of
+tightening the rein--my bridle arm was not free; with both hands I was
+grasping the ready rifle.
+
+Vengeance had made me mad.  Even had I been certain that the dark forms
+before me were those of the murderers, I was determined to dash forwards
+into their midst, and perish upon the body of a savage.
+
+I was not alone.  The black was at my heels; and close behind, I could
+hear the clattering hoofs of the hunters' horses.
+
+We galloped up to the selvidge of the smoke.  The deception was at an
+end.  They were not Indians or enemies, but friends who stood around,
+and who hailed our approach neither with words nor shouts, but with the
+ominous silence of sympathy.
+
+I pulled up by the fire, and dismounted from my horse: men gathered
+around me with looks of deep meaning.  They were speechless--no one
+uttered a word.  All saw that it was a tale that needed no telling.
+
+I was myself the first to speak.  In a voice so husky as scarcely to be
+heard, I inquired: "Where?"
+
+The interrogatory was understood--it was anticipated.  One had already
+taken me by the hand, and was leading me gently around the fire.  He
+said nothing, but pointed towards the hommock.  Unresistingly I walked
+by his side.
+
+As we neared the pond, I observed a larger group than any I had yet
+seen.  They were standing in a ring, with their faces turned inwards,
+and their eyes bent upon the earth.  _I knew she was there_.
+
+At our approach, the men looked up, and suddenly the ring opened--both
+sides mechanically drawing back.  He who had my hand conducted me
+silently onwards, till I stood in their midst.  I looked upon the corpse
+of my mother.
+
+Beside it was the dead body of my uncle, and beyond, the bodies of
+several black men--faithful slaves, who had fallen in defence of their
+master and mistress.
+
+My poor mother!--shot--stabbed--_scalped_.  Even in death had she been
+defeatured!
+
+Though I had anticipated it, the spectacle shocked me.
+
+My poor mother!  Those glassy eyes would never smile upon me again--
+those pale lips would neither chide nor cheer me more.
+
+I could control my emotions no longer.  I burst into tears; and falling
+upon the earth, flung my arms around the corpse, and kissed the cold
+mute lips of her who had given me birth.
+
+
+
+CHAPTER SEVENTY FOUR.
+
+TO THE TRAIL.
+
+My grief was profound--even to misery.  The remembrance of occasional
+moments of coldness on the part of my mother--the remembrance more
+especially of the last parting scene--rendered my anguish acute.  Had we
+but parted in affection--in the friendly confidence of former years--my
+loss would have been easier to endure.  But no; her last words to me
+were spoken in reproach--almost in anger--and it was the memory of these
+that now so keenly embittered my thoughts.  I would have given the world
+could she have heard but one word--to know how freely I forgave her.
+
+My poor mother! all was forgiven.  Her faults were few and venial.  I
+remembered them not.  Ambition was her only sin--among those of her
+station, almost universal--but I remembered it no more.  I remembered
+only her many virtues--only that she was my _mother_.  Never until that
+moment had I known how dearly I loved her.
+
+It was no time to indulge in grief.  Where was my sister?
+
+I sprang to my feet, as I gave wild utterance to the interrogatory.
+
+It was answered only by signs.  Those around me pointed to the forest.
+I understood the signs--the savages had borne her away.
+
+Up to this hour I had felt no hostility towards the red men; on the
+contrary, my sentiments had an opposite inclination.  If not friendship
+for them, I had felt something akin to it.  I was conscious of the many
+wrongs they had endured, and were now enduring at the hands of our
+people.  I knew that in the end they would be conquered, and must
+submit.  I had felt sympathy for their unfortunate condition.
+
+It was gone.  The sight of my murdered mother produced an instantaneous
+change in my feelings; and sympathy for the savage was supplanted by
+fierce hostility.  Her blood called aloud for vengeance, and my heart
+was eager to obey the summons.
+
+As I rose to my feet, I registered vows of revenge.
+
+I stood not alone.  Old Hickman and his fellow-hunter were at my back,
+and fifty others joined their voices in a promise to aid me in the
+pursuit.
+
+Black Jake was among the loudest who clamoured for retribution.  He too
+had sustained his loss.  Viola was nowhere to be found--she had been
+carried off with the other domestics.  Some may have gone voluntarily,
+but all were absent--all who were not dead.  The plantation and its
+people had no longer an existence.  I was homeless as well as
+motherless.
+
+There was no time to be wasted in idle sorrowing; immediate action was
+required, and determined upon.  The people had come to the ground armed
+and ready, and a few minutes sufficed to prepare for the pursuit.
+
+A fresh horse was procured for myself; others for the companions of my
+late journey; and after snatching a breakfast hastily prepared, we
+mounted, and struck off upon the trail of the savages.
+
+It was easily followed, for the murderers had been mounted, and their
+horses' tracks betrayed them.
+
+They had gone some distance up the river before crossing, and then swam
+their horses over to the Indian side.  Without hesitation, we did the
+same.
+
+The place I remembered well.  I had crossed there before--two months
+before--while tracking the steed of Osceola.  It was the path that had
+been taken by the young chief.  The coincidence produced upon me a
+certain impression; and not without pain did I observe it.
+
+It led to reflection.  There was time, as the trail was in places less
+conspicuous, and the finding it delayed our advance.  It led to inquiry.
+
+Had any one seen the savages?--or noted to what band they belonged?  Who
+was their leader?
+
+Yes.  All these questions were answered in the affirmative.  Two men,
+lying concealed by the road, had seen the Indians passing away--had seen
+their captives, too; my sister--Viola--with other girls of the
+plantation.  These were on horseback, each clasped in the arms of a
+savage.  The blacks travelled afoot.  They were _not_ bound.  They
+appeared to go willingly.  The Indians were "Redsticks"--_led by
+Osceola_.
+
+Such was the belief of those around me, founded upon the report of the
+men who had lain in ambush.
+
+It is difficult to describe the impression produced upon me.  It was
+painful in the extreme.  I endeavoured not to believe the report.  I
+resolved not to give it credence, until I should have further
+confirmation of its truthfulness.
+
+Osceola!  O heavens!  Surely he would not have done this deed?  It could
+not have been he?
+
+The men might have been mistaken.  It was before daylight the savages
+had been seen.  The darkness might have deceived them.  Every feat
+performed by the Indians--every foray made--was put down to the credit
+of Osceola.  Osceola was everywhere.  Surely he had not been there?
+
+Who were the two men--the witnesses?  Not without surprise did I listen
+to the answer.  They were _Spence and Williams_!
+
+To my surprise, too, I now learned that they were among the party who
+followed me--volunteers to aid me in obtaining revenge for my wrongs!
+
+Strange, I thought; but stranger still that Arens Ringgold was _not_
+there.  He had been present at the scene of the conflagration; and, as I
+was told, among the loudest in his threats of vengeance.  But he had
+returned home; at all events he was not one of the band of pursuers.
+
+I called Spence and Williams, and questioned them closely.  They adhered
+to their statement.  They admitted that it was dark when they had seen
+the Indians returning from the massacre.  They could not tell for
+certain whether they were the warriors of the "Redstick" tribe, or those
+of the "Long Swamp."  They believed them to be the former.  As to who
+was their leader, they had no doubt whatever.  It was Osceola who led
+them.  They knew him by the three ostrich feathers in his head-dress,
+which rendered him conspicuous among his followers.
+
+These fellows spoke positively.  What interest could they have in
+deceiving me?  What could it matter to them, whether the chief of the
+murderous band was Osceola, Coa Hajo, or Onopa himself?
+
+Their words produced conviction--combined with other circumstances,
+deep, painful conviction.  The murderer of my mother--he who had fired
+my home, and borne my sister into a cruel captivity--could be no other
+than Osceola.
+
+All memory of our past friendship died upon the instant.  My heart
+burned with hostility and hate, for him it had once so ardently admired.
+
+
+
+CHAPTER SEVENTY FIVE.
+
+THE ALARM.
+
+There were other circumstances connected with the bloody affair, that
+upon reflection appeared peculiar and mysterious.  By the sudden shock,
+my soul had been completely benighted; and these circumstances had
+escaped my notice.  I merely believed that there had been an onslaught
+of the Indians, in which my mother had been massacred, and my sister
+borne away from her home--that the savages, not satisfied with blood,
+had added fire--that these outrages had been perpetrated in revenge for
+past wrongs, endured at the hands of their pale-faced enemies--that the
+like had occurred elsewhere, and was almost daily occurring--why not on
+the banks of the Suwanee, as in other districts of the country?  In
+fact, it had been rather a matter of wonder, that the settlement had
+been permitted to remain so long unmolested.  Others--far more remote
+from the Seminole strongholds--had already suffered a like terrible
+visitation; and why should ours escape?  The immunity had been remarked,
+and the inhabitants had become lulled by it into a false security.
+
+The explanation given was that the main body of the Indians had been
+occupied elsewhere, watching the movements of Scott's triple army; and,
+as our settlement was strong, no small band had dared to come against
+it.
+
+But Scott was now gone--his troops had retired within the forts--their
+summer quarters--for winter is the season of campaigning in Florida; and
+the Indians, to whom all seasons are alike, were now free to extend
+their marauding expeditions against the trans-border plantations.
+
+This appeared the true explanation why an attack upon the settlement of
+the Suwanee had been so long deferred.
+
+During the first burst of my grief, on receiving news of the calamity, I
+accepted it as such: I and mine had merely been the victims of a general
+vengeance.
+
+But the moments of bewilderment soon passed; and the peculiar
+circumstances, to which I have alluded, began to make themselves
+apparent to my mind.
+
+First of all, why was our plantation the only one that had been
+attacked?--our house the only one given to the flames?--our family the
+only one murdered?
+
+These questions startled me; and natural it was that they did so.  There
+were other plantations along the river equally unprotected--other
+families far more noted for their hostility to the Seminole race--nay,
+what was yet a greater mystery, the Ringgold plantation lay in the very
+path of the marauders; as their trail testified, they had passed around
+it to reach our house; and both Arens Ringgold and his father had long
+been notorious for bitter enmity to the red men, and violent aggressions
+against their rights.
+
+Why, then, had the Ringgold plantation been suffered to remain
+unmolested, while ours was singled out for destruction?  Were we the
+victims of a _particular and special vengeance_?
+
+It must have been so; beyond a doubt, it was so.  After long reflection,
+I could arrive at no other conclusion.  By this alone could the mystery
+be solved.
+
+And Powell--oh! could it have been he?--my friend, a fiend guilty of
+such an atrocious deed?  Was it probable? was it possible?  No--neither.
+
+Despite the testimony of the two men--vile wretches I knew them to be--
+despite what they had seen and said--my heart refused to believe it.
+
+What motive could he have for such special murder?--ah! what motive?
+
+True, my mother had been unkind to him--more than that, ungrateful; she
+had once treated him with scorn.  I remembered it well--he, too, might
+remember it.
+
+But surely he, the noble youth--to my mind the _beau ideal_ of heroism--
+would scarcely have harboured such petty spite, and for so long?--would
+scarcely have repaid it by an act of such bloody retribution?  No--no--
+no.
+
+Besides, would Powell have left untouched the dwelling of the Ringgolds?
+of Arens Ringgold, one of his most hated foes--one of the four men he
+had sworn to kill?  This of itself was the most improbable circumstance
+connected with the whole affair.
+
+Ringgold had been at home--might have been entrapped in his sleep--his
+black retainers would scarcely have resisted; at all events, they could
+have been overcome as easily as ours.
+
+Why was _he_ permitted to live?  Why was _his_ house not given to the
+flames?
+
+Upon the supposition that Osceola was the leader of the band, I could
+not comprehend why he should have left Arens Ringgold to live, while
+killing those who were scarcely his enemies.
+
+New information imparted to me as we advanced along the route, produced
+new reflections.  I was told that the Indians had made a hasty
+departure--that they had in fact retreated.  The conflagration had
+attracted a large body of citizen soldiery--a patrol upon its rounds--
+and the appearance of these, unexpected by the savages, had caused the
+latter to scamper off to the woods.  But for this, it was conjectured
+other plantations would have suffered the fate of ours--perhaps that of
+Ringgold himself.
+
+The tale was probable enough.  The band of marauders was not large--we
+knew by their tracks there were not more than fifty of them--and this
+would account for their retreat on the appearance even of a smaller
+force.  The people alleged that it was a retreat.
+
+This information gave a different complexion to the affair--I was again
+driven to conjectures--again forced to suspicions of Osceola.
+
+Perhaps I but half understood his Indian nature; perhaps, after all,
+_he_ was the monster who had struck the blow.
+
+Once more I interrogated myself as to his motive--what motive?
+
+Ha! my sister, Virginia--O God! could love--passion--fiendish desire to
+possess--
+
+"The Indyens!  Indyens!  Indyens!"
+
+
+
+CHAPTER SEVENTY SIX.
+
+A FALSE ALARM.
+
+The significant shout at once put a period to my reflections.
+
+Believing the savages to be in sight, I spurred towards the front.  The
+horsemen had drawn bridle and halted.  A few, who had been straggling
+from the path, hurried up and ranged themselves close to the main body,
+as if for protection.  A few others, who had been riding carelessly in
+the advance, were seen galloping back.  It was from these last the cry
+of "Indyens" had come, and several of them still continued to repeat it.
+
+"Indyuns?" cried Hickman, interrogatively, and with an air of
+incredulity.  "Whar did ye see them?"
+
+"Yonder," responded one of the retreating horsemen--"in yon clump o'
+live-oaks.  It's full o' them."
+
+"I'll be dog-goned if I believe it," rejoined the old hunter, with a
+contemptuous toss of the head.  "I'll lay a plug o' Jeemes's River, it
+war stumps yez seed!  Indyuns don't show 'emselves in timmer like this
+hyar--specially to sech verdunts as you.  Ye'll _hear_ 'em afore you see
+'em, I kalklate."
+
+"But we did hear them," replied one, "we heard them calling out to one
+another."
+
+"Bah!" exclaimed the hunter; "y'ull hear 'em different from that, I
+guess, when you gets near enough.  It'll be the spang o' thar rifles
+y'ull hear fust thing.  Dog-gone the Indyun's thar.  Twar a coon or a
+cat-bird ye've heern a screamin'!  I know'd ye'd make a scamper the fust
+thing as flittered afore ye."
+
+"Stay whar yez are now," he added in a tone of authority, "jest stay
+whar yez are a bit."
+
+So saying, he slipped down from his saddle, and commenced hitching his
+bridle to a branch.
+
+"Come, Jim Weatherford," he said, addressing himself to his hunter
+comrade, "you come along--we'll see whether it be Indyuns or stumps
+thet's gin these fellows sech a dog-goned scare."
+
+Weatherford, anticipating the request, had already dropped to the
+ground; and the two having secured their horses, rifle in hand, slunk
+silently off into the bushes.
+
+The rest of the party, gathering still more closely together, remained
+in their saddles to await the result.
+
+There was but slight trial upon their patience; for the two pioneers
+were scarce out of sight, when we heard their voices ringing together in
+loud peals of laughter.
+
+This encouraged us to advance.  Where there was so much merriment there
+could be but little danger; and, without waiting for the return of the
+scouts, we rode forwards, directing our course by their continued
+cachinnations.
+
+An opening brought both of them into view; Weatherford was gazing
+downwards, as if examining some tracks; while Hickman, who saw us coming
+up, stood with extended arm, pointing toward the straggling woods that
+lay beyond.
+
+We turned our eyes in the direction indicated.  We observed a number of
+half-wild, horned cattle, that, startled by the trampling of our troops,
+were scampering off among the trees.
+
+"Now," cried the hunter, triumphantly; "thar's yur Indyuns!  Ain't they
+a savage consarn?  Ha! ha! ha!"
+
+Every one joined in the laugh except those who had given the false
+alarm.
+
+"I know'd thar war no Indyuns," continued the alligator-hunter.  "That
+ain't the way they'll make thar appearance.  Yu'll hear 'em afore you
+sees 'em; an' jest one word o' advice to you greenhorns--as don't know a
+red Indyun from a red cow--let somebody as diz know, go in the devance,
+an' the rest o' ye keep well togither; or I'll stake high on't thet some
+o' yez 'll sleep the night 'ithout har on yur heads."
+
+All acknowledged that Hickman's advice was sage and sound.  The hint was
+taken, and leaving the two old hunters henceforth to lead the pursuit,
+the rest drew more closely together, and followed them along the trail.
+
+The plan adopted in this instance, was that followed in all well-devised
+tracking parties when in pursuit of an enemy.  It matters not of what
+elements the body is composed--be it naval, military or civilian--be
+there present, commodores, generals or governors--all yield the _pas_ to
+some old hunter or scout, who follows the trail like a sleuth hound, and
+whose word is supreme law for the nonce.
+
+It was evident the pursued party could not be far in advance of us.
+This we knew from the hour at which they had been seen retreating from
+the settlement.  After my arrival on the plantation, no time had been
+lost--only ten minutes spent in preparation--and altogether there was
+scarce an hour's difference between the times of our starting.  The
+fresh trail confirmed the fact--they could not be a league ahead of us,
+unless they had ridden faster than we.  This was scarce probable,
+encumbered as they were with their black captives, whose larger tracks,
+here and there distinctly perceptible, showed that they were marching
+afoot.  Of course, the savage horsemen would be detained in getting them
+forwards; and in this lay our main hope of overtaking them.
+
+There were but few who feared for the result, should we only be able to
+come up with the enemy.  The white men were full of wrath and revenge,
+and this precluded all thoughts of fear.  Besides, we could tell by
+their trail that the Indians scarce outnumbered us.  Not above fifty
+appeared to constitute the band.  No doubt they were able warriors, and
+our equals man to man; but those who had volunteered to assist me were
+also the "true grit"--the best men of the settlement for such a purpose.
+
+No one talked of going back.  All declared their readiness to follow the
+murderers even to the heart of the Indian territory--even into the
+"Cove" itself.
+
+The devotion of these men cheered me; and I rode forwards with lighter
+heart--lighter with the prospect of vengeance, which I believed to be
+near.
+
+
+
+CHAPTER SEVENTY SEVEN.
+
+"A SPLIT TRAIL."
+
+It proved not to be so near us as we had anticipated.  Pressing forward,
+as fast as our guides could lift the trail, we followed it for ten
+miles.  We had hoped to find revenge at half the distance.
+
+The Indians either knew that we were after them; or, with their wonted
+wisdom were marching rapidly under the mere suspicion of a pursuit.
+After the committal of such horrid atrocities, it was natural for them
+to suppose they would be pursued.
+
+Evidently they were progressing as fast as we--but not faster; though
+the sun was broiling hot, sap still oozed from the boughs they had
+accidentally broken--the mud turned up by their horses' hoofs, as the
+guides expressed it, had not yet "crusted over," and the crushed herbage
+was wet with its own juice and still procumbent.
+
+To the denizen of the city, accustomed to travel from street to street
+by the assistance of sign boards at every corner and numbers on every
+door, it must appear almost incredible that the wild savage, or
+untutored hunter, can, without guide or compass, unerringly follow, day
+after day, the track of some equally cunning foe.  To the pursuing party
+every leaf, every twig, every blade of grass is a "sign," and they read
+them as plainly as if the route were laid down upon a map.  While the
+pursuing party is thus attentive to detect "sign," the escaping one is
+as vigilant to avoid leaving any--and many are the devices resorted to,
+to efface the trail.
+
+"Jest helf a hour ahead," remarked old Hickman, as he rose erect after
+examining the tracks for the twentieth time--"jest helf a hour, dog-darn
+'em!  I never knowed red skins to travel so fast afore.  Thar a
+streakin' it like a gang o' scared bucks, an' jest 'bout now thar breech
+clouts are in a purty considerable sweat, an' some o' thar duds is
+stannin at an angle o' forty-five, I reckon."
+
+A peal of laughter was the reply to this sally of the guide.
+
+"Not so loud, fellars! not so loud," said he, interrupting the laughter
+by an earnest wave of his hand.  "By jeroozalim! tha'll hear ye; an if
+they do, tha'll be some o' us 'ithout scalps afore sundown.  For yer
+lives, boys, keep still as mice--not a word, or we'll be heern--tha'r as
+sharp eared as thar own dogs, and, darn me, if I believe thar more'n
+helf a mile ahead o' us."
+
+The guide once more bent himself over the trail, and after a short
+reconnoissance of the tracks, repeated his last words with more
+emphasis.
+
+"No, by --! not more'n half a mile--Hush, boys, keep as quiet as
+possums, an' I promise ye we'll tree the varmints in less'n a hour.
+Hush!"
+
+Obedient to the injunctions, we rode forwards, as silently as it was
+possible for us to proceed on horseback.
+
+We strove to guide our horses along the softer borders of the path to
+prevent the thumping of their hoofs.  No one spoke above a whisper; and
+even then there was but little conversation, as each was earnestly
+gazing forwards, expecting every moment to see the bronzed savages
+moving before us.
+
+In this way we proceeded for another half mile, without seeing aught of
+the enemy except their tracks.
+
+A new object, however, now came in view--the clear sky shining through
+the trunks of the trees.  We were all woodsmen enough to know that this
+indicated an "opening" in the forest.
+
+Most of my companions expressed pleasure at the sight.  We had now been
+riding a long way through the sombre woods--our path often obstructed by
+slimy and fallen logs, so that a slow pace had been unavoidable.  They
+believed that in the open ground we should move faster; and have a
+better chance of sighting the pursued.
+
+Some of the older heads, and especially the two guides, were affected
+differently by the new appearance.  Hickman at once gave expression to
+his chagrin.
+
+"Cuss the clarin," he exclaimed; "it are a savanner, an' a big 'un,
+too--dog-gone the thing--it'll spoil all."
+
+"How?"  I inquired.
+
+"Ye see, Geordy, if thar a'ready across it, they'll leave some on
+t'other side to watch--they'll be sarten to do that, whether they know
+we're arter 'em or not.  Wall, what follers?  _We_ kin no more cross
+'ithout bein' seen, than a carryvan o' kaymils.  An' what follers that?
+Once they've sighted us, in coorse they'll know how to git out o' our
+way; judjin' from the time we've been a travellin'--hey! it's darned
+near sundown!--I reckon we must be clost to thar big swamp.  If they spy
+us a-comin' arter, they'll make strait custrut for thar, and then I know
+what they'll do."
+
+"What?"
+
+"They'll scatter thar; and ef they do, we might as well go sarchin' for
+bird's-nests in snow time."
+
+"What should we do?"
+
+"It are best for the hul o' ye to stop here a bit.  Me and Jim
+Weatherford'll steal forbad to the edge of the timmer, an' see if
+they're got acrosst the savanner.  Ef they are, then we must make roun'
+it the best way we kin, an' take up thar trail on the tother aide.
+Thar's no other chance.  If we're seen crossin' the open ground, we may
+jest as well turn tail to 'em, and take the back-track home agin."
+
+To the counsel of the alligator-hunter there was no dissenting voice.
+All acknowledged its wisdom, and he was left to carry out the design
+without opposition.
+
+He and his companion once more dismounted from their horses, and,
+leaving us standing among the trees, advanced stealthily towards the
+edge of the opening.
+
+It was a considerable time before they came back; and the other men were
+growing impatient.  Many believed we were only losing time by this tardy
+reconnoissance, and the Indians would be getting further away.  Sonde
+advised that the pursuit should be continued at once, and that, seen or
+not, we ought to ride directly onwards.
+
+However consonant with my own feelings--burning as I was for a conflict
+with the murderers--I knew it would not be a prudent course.  The guides
+were in the right.
+
+These returned at length, and delivered their report.  There _was_ a
+savanna, and the Indians had crossed it.  They had got into the timber
+on its opposite side, and neither man nor horse was to be seen.  They
+could scarcely have been out of sight, before Hickman and Weatherford
+arrived upon its nearer edge, and the former averred that he had seen
+the tail of one of their horses, disappearing among the bushes.
+
+During their absence, the cunning trackers had learned more.  From the
+sign they had gathered another important fact--that there was no longer
+_a trail for us to follow_!
+
+On entering the Savanna the Indians had _scattered_--the paths they had
+taken across the grassy meadow, were as numerous as their horses.  As
+the hunter expressed it, the trail "war split up into fifty pieces."
+The latter had ascertained this by crawling out among the long grass,
+and noting the tracks.
+
+One in particular had occupied their attention.  It was not made by the
+hoof-prints of horses, though some of these ran alongside, but by the
+feet of men.  They were naked feet; and a superficial observer might
+have fancied that but one pair of them had passed over the ground.  The
+skilled trackers, however, knew this to be a _ruse_.  The prints were
+large, and misshapen, and too deeply indented in the soil to have been
+produced by a single individual.  The long heel, and scarcely convex
+instep--the huge balls, and broad prints of the toes, were all signs
+that the hunters easily understood.  They knew that it was the trail of
+the negro captives who had proceeded thus by the direction of their
+captors.
+
+This unexpected ruse on the part of the retreating savages created
+chagrin, as well as astonishment.  For the moment all felt outwitted--we
+believed that the enemy was lost--we should be cheated of our revenge.
+Some even talked of the idleness of carrying the pursuit further.  A few
+counselled us to go back; and it became necessary to appeal to their
+hatred of the savage foe--with most of them a hereditary passion--and
+once more to invoke their vengeance.
+
+At this crisis, old Hickman cheered the men with fresh hope.  I was glad
+to hear him speak.
+
+"We can't get at 'em to-night, boys," said he, after much talk had been
+spent; "we dasent cross over this hyar clearin' by daylight, an' it's
+too big to git roun' it.  It 'ud take a twenty mile ride to circumvent
+the durned thing.  Ne'er a mind!  Let us halt hyar till the dark comes
+on.  Then we kin steal across; an' if me an' Jim Weatherford don't scare
+up the trail on the tother side, then this child never ate allygator.  I
+know they'll come thegither agin, an' we'll be like enough to find the
+durned varments camped somewhar in a clump.  Not seein' us arter 'em any
+more, they'll be feelin' as safe as a bear in a bee tree--an' that's
+jest the time to take 'em."
+
+The plan was adopted; and, dismounting from our jaded horses, we awaited
+the setting of the sun.
+
+There are few situations more trying to the boiling blood and pent-up
+fury of the pursuer--especially if he have bitter cause for vengeance--
+than a "check" in the chase; the loss of the trail of course often
+involves the escape of the foe, and though it may be after a while
+recovered, yet the delay affords such advantage to the enemy, that every
+moment serves only to increase the anxiety and whet the fury of the
+pursuer.  This then was my case on the present occasion.  While yielding
+to the advice of the hunter, because I knew it to be the best plan under
+the circumstances, I nevertheless could scarce control my impatience, or
+submit to the delay--but felt impelled to hurry forward, and alone and
+single-handed, if need be, inflict upon the savage miscreants the
+punishment due to their murderous deeds.
+
+
+
+CHAPTER SEVENTY EIGHT.
+
+CROSSING THE SAVANNA.
+
+We now suffered the very acme of misery.  While riding in hot haste
+along the trail, there was an excitement, almost continuous, that
+precluded the possibility of intense reflection, and kept my mind from
+dwelling too minutely upon the calamity that had befallen me.  The
+prospect of retribution, ever appearing nearer at hand--at every step
+nearer--all but cancelled my emotions of grief; and motion itself--
+knowing it to be forward, and towards the object of hatred--had a
+certain effect in soothing my troubled soul.
+
+Now that the pursuit was suspended, and I was free to reflect on the
+events of the morning, my soul was plunged into the deepest misery.  My
+fancy distressed me with dire images.  Before me appeared the corpse of
+my murdered mother--her arms outstretched, waving me on to vengeance.
+My sister, too, wan, tearful, dishevelled! dishonoured!
+
+No wonder that with painful impatience I awaited the going down of the
+sun.  I thought I had never seen that grand orb sink so slowly.  The
+delay tortured me almost to distraction.
+
+The sun's disc was blood red, from a thick haze that hung over the
+woods.  The heavens appeared lowering, and angry--they had the hue of my
+own spirit.
+
+At length, twilight came on.  Short it was--as is usual in Southern
+latitudes--though it appeared long and tardy in passing away.  Darkness
+followed, and once more springing to my saddle, I found relief in
+motion.
+
+Emerging from the timber, we rode out upon the open savanna.  The two
+hunters, acting as guides, conducted us across.  There was no attempt
+made to follow any of the numerous trails.  In the darkness, it would
+have been impossible, but even had there been light enough left them,
+the guides would have pursued a different course.
+
+Hickman's conjecture was, that on reaching the opposite side, the
+marauding party would come together at some rendezvous previously agreed
+upon.  The trail of any one, therefore, would be sufficient for our
+purpose, and in all probability would conduct us to their camp.  Our
+only aim, then, was to get across the savanna unobserved; and this the
+darkness might enable us to accomplish.
+
+Silently as spectres we marched over the open meadow.  We rode with
+extreme slowness, lest the hoof-strokes should be heard.  Our tired
+steeds needed no taming down.  The ground was favourable--a surface of
+soft, grassy turf, over which our animals glided with noiseless tread.
+Our only fears were, that they should scent the horses of the Indians,
+and betray us by their neighing.
+
+Happily our fears proved groundless; and, after half an hour's silent
+marching, we reached the other side of the savanna, and drew up under
+the shadowy trees.
+
+It was scarce possible we could have been observed.  If the Indians had
+left spies behind them, the darkness would have concealed us from their
+view, and we had made no noise by which our approach could have been
+discovered, unless their sentinels had been placed at the very point
+where we re-entered the woods.  We saw no signs of any, and we believed
+that none of the band had lingered behind, and we had not been seen.
+
+We congratulated one another in whispers; and in like manner deliberated
+on our future plans of proceeding.  We were still in our saddles--with
+the intention to proceed further.  We should have dismounted upon the
+spot, and waited for the light of morning to enable us to take up the
+trail, but circumstances forbade this.  Our horses were suffering from
+thirst, and their riders were no better off.  We had met with no water
+since before noon, and a few hours under the burning skies of Florida
+are sufficient to render thirst intolerable.  Whole days in a colder
+climate would scarce have an equal effect.
+
+Both horses and men suffered acutely--we could neither sleep nor rest,
+without relief--water must be sought for, before a halt could be made.
+
+We felt hunger as well, for scarce any provision had been made for the
+long march--but the pangs of this appetite were easier to be endured.
+Water of itself would satisfy us for the night, and we resolved to ride
+forward in search of it.
+
+In this dilemma, the experience of our two guides promised relief.  They
+had once made a hunting excursion to the savanna we had crossed.  It was
+in the times when the tribes were friendly, and white men were permitted
+to pass freely through the "reserve."  They remembered a pond, at which,
+upon that occasion, they had made their temporary encampment.  They
+believed it was not far distant from the spot where we had arrived.  It
+might be difficult to find in the darkness, but to suffer on or search
+for it were our only alternatives.
+
+The latter was of course adopted; and once more allowing Hickman and
+Weatherford to pioneer the way, the rest of us rode silently after.
+
+We moved in single file, each horse guided by the one that immediately
+preceded him; in the darkness no other mode of march could be adopted.
+Our party was thus strung out into a long line, here and there curving
+according to the sinuosities of the path, and gliding like some
+monstrous serpent among the trees.
+
+
+
+CHAPTER SEVENTY NINE.
+
+GROPING AMONG THE TIMBER.
+
+At intervals the guides were at fault; and then the whole line was
+forced to halt and remain motionless.  Several times both Hickman and
+Weatherford were puzzled as to the direction they should take.  They had
+lost the points of the compass, and were bewildered.
+
+Had there been light, they could have recovered this knowledge by
+observing the bark upon the trees--a craft well-known to the backwoods
+hunter--but it was too dark to make such an observation.  Even amidst
+the darkness, Hickman alleged he could tell north from south by the
+"feel" of the bark: and for this purpose I now saw him groping against
+the trunks.  I noticed that he passed from one to another, trying
+several of them, the better to confirm his observations.
+
+After carrying on these singular manoeuvres for a period of several
+minutes, he turned to his comrade with an exclamation that betokened
+surprise:--
+
+"Dog-gone my cats, Jim," said he, speaking in an undertone, "these woods
+are altered since you and I war hyar--what the ole scratch kin be the
+matter wi' 'em?  The bark's all peeled off and thar as dry as punk."
+
+"I was thinkin' they had a kewrious look," replied the other, "but I
+s'posed it was the darkness o' the night."
+
+"Neer a bit of it--the trees is altered someways, since we war hyar
+afore!  They are broom pines--that I recollect well enough--let's git a
+bunch o' the leaves, and see how they looks."
+
+Saying this, he reached his hand upwards, and plucked one of the long
+fascicles that drooped overhead.
+
+"Ugh!" continued he, crushing the needles between his fingers, "I see
+how it are now.  The darnationed moths has been at 'em--the trees are
+dead.
+
+"D'yer think thar all dead?" he inquired after a pause, and then
+advancing a little, he proceeded to examine some others.
+
+"Dead as durnation!--every tree o' 'em--wal! we must go by guess-work--
+thar's no help for it, boys.  Ole Hick kin guide you no furrer.  I'm
+dead beat, and know no more 'bout the direkshun o' that ere pond, than
+the greenest greenhorn among ye."
+
+This acknowledgment produced no very pleasant effect.  Thirst was
+torturing all those who heard it.  Hitherto, trusting that the skill of
+the hunters would enable them to find water, they had sustained it with
+a degree of patience.  It was now felt more acutely than ever.
+
+"Stay," said Hickman, after a few moments had elapsed.  "All's not lost
+that's in danger.  If I arn't able to guide ye to the pond, I reckon
+I've got a critter as kin.  Kin you, ole hoss?" he continued, addressing
+himself to the animal he bestrode--a wiry old jade that Hickman had long
+been master of--"kin you find the water?  Gee up, ole beeswax! and let's
+see if you kin."
+
+Giving his "critter" a kick in the ribs, and at the same time full
+freedom of the bridle, he once more started forwards among the trees.
+
+We all followed as before, building fresh hopes upon the instinct of the
+animal.
+
+Surely the pride of man ought to be somewhat abased, when he reflects,
+that he, "the lord of the creation," is oftentimes foiled in attempts
+which, by the mere instincts of the lower animals, are of easy
+accomplishment.  What a lesson of humility this ought to teach to the
+wanton and cruel oppressor of those noble animals, whose strength, and
+instinct, and endurance, are all made subservient to his comfort.  It is
+in the hour of danger and peril alone, that man realises his dependence
+upon agencies other than his own lordly will.
+
+We had not proceeded far, when it became known that Hickman's horse had
+got scent of the water.  His owner alleged that he "smelt" it, and the
+latter knew this, as well as if it had been one of his hounds taking up
+the trail of a deer.
+
+The horse actually exhibited signs of such an intelligence.  His muzzle
+was protruded forwards, and now and then he was heard to sniff the air;
+while, at the same time, he walked forward in a direct line--as if
+making for some object.  Surely he was heading for water.  Such was the
+belief.
+
+It produced a cheering effect, and the men were now advancing in better
+spirits, when, to their surprise, Hickman suddenly drew up, and halted
+the line I rode forward to him to inquire the cause.  I found him silent
+and apparently reflective.
+
+"Why have you stopped?"  I inquired.
+
+"You must all o' ye wait here a bit."
+
+"Why must we?" demanded several, who had pressed along side.
+
+"'Taint safe for us to go forrad this way; I've got a idea that them red
+skins is by the pond--they've camped there for sartin--it's the only
+water that is about hyar; and its devilitch like that thar they've
+rendevoozed an' camped.  If that be the case, an' we ride forrad in this
+fashion, they'll hear us a-comin' an' be off agin into the bushes, whar
+we'll see no more o' them.  Ain't that like enough, fellers?"
+
+This interrogatory was answered in the affirmative.
+
+"Wal then," continued the guide; "better for yous all to stay hyar,
+while me and Jim Weatherford goes forrad to see if the Indyuns is thar.
+We kin find the pond now.  I know whar it lies by the direkshun the hoss
+war taken.  It aint fur off.  If the red skins aint thar, we'll soon be
+back, an' then ye kin all come on as fast as ye like."
+
+This prudent course was willingly agreed to, and the two hunters, once
+more dismounting, stole forwards afoot.  They made no objection to my
+going along with them.  My misfortunes gave me a claim to be their
+leader; and, leaving my bridle in the hands of one of my companions, I
+accompanied the guides upon their errand.
+
+We walked with noiseless tread.  The ground was thickly covered with the
+long needles of the pine, forming a soft bed, upon which the footstep
+made no sound.  There was little or no underwood, and this enabled us to
+advance with rapidity, and in a few minutes we were a long way from the
+party we had left behind.
+
+Our only care was about keeping the right direction, and this we had
+almost lost--or believed so--when, to our astonishment we beheld a light
+shining through the trees.  It was the gleam of a fire that appeared to
+be blazing freely.  Hickman at once pronounced it the camp fire of the
+Indians.
+
+At first we thought of returning, and bringing on our comrades to the
+attack; but upon reflection, we determined to approach nearer the fire,
+and make certain whether it was the enemy's camp.
+
+We advanced no longer in erect attitudes; but crawling upon our hands
+and knees.  Wherever the glare penetrated the woods, we avoided it, and
+kept under the shadow of the tree-trunks.  The fire burned in the midst
+of an opening.  The hunters remembered that the pond was so placed; and
+now observing the sheen of water, we knew it must be the same.
+
+We drew nearer and nearer, until it was no longer safe to advance.  We
+were close to the edge of the timber that concealed us.  We could see
+the whole surface of the open ground.  There were horses picketed over
+it, and dark forms recumbent under the fire light.  They were murderers
+asleep.
+
+Close to the fire, one was seated upon a saddle.  He appeared to be
+awake, though his head was drooped to the level of his knees.  The blaze
+was shining upon this man's face; and both his features and complexion
+might have been seen, but for the interposition of paint and plumes.
+
+The face appeared of a crimson red, and three black ostrich feathers,
+bending over the brow, hung straggling down his cheeks.  These plumed
+symbols produced painful recognition.  I knew that it was the head-dress
+of Osceola.
+
+I looked further.  Several groups were beyond--in fact, the whole open
+space was crowded with prostrate human forms.
+
+There was one group, however, that fixed my attention.  It consisted of
+three or four individuals, seated or reclining along the grass.  They
+were in shade, and from our position, their features could not be
+recognised; but their white dresses, and the outlines of their forms,
+soft even in the obscurity of the shadow, told that they were females.
+
+Two of them were side by side, a little apart from the others; one
+appeared to be supporting the other, whose head rested in her lap.
+
+With emotions fearfully vivid, I gazed on these two forms.  I had no
+doubt they were Viola and my sister.
+
+
+
+CHAPTER EIGHTY.
+
+SIGNAL SHOTS.
+
+I shall not attempt to depict my emotions at that moment.  My pen is
+unequal to the task.  Think of my situation, and fancy them if you can.
+
+Behind me, a mother murdered and basely mutilated--a near relative slain
+in like fashion--my home--my whole property given to the flames.  Before
+me, a sister torn from the maternal embrace--borne ruthlessly along by
+savage captors--perhaps defiled by their fiendish leader.  And he, too,
+before my eyes--the false, perfidious friend, the ravisher--the
+murderer!  Had I not cue for indulging in the wildest emotions?
+
+And wild they were--each moment growing wilder, as I gazed upon the
+object of my vengeance.  They were fast rising beyond my control.  My
+muscles seemed to swell with renewed rage--the blood coursed through my
+veins like streams of liquid fire.
+
+I almost forgot the situation in which we were.  But one thought was in
+my mind--vengeance.  Its object was before me--unconscious of my
+presence as if he had been asleep--almost within reach of my hand;
+perfectly within range of my rifle.
+
+I raised the piece to the level of those drooping plumes.  I sighted
+their tips--I knew that the eyes were underneath them--my finger rested
+against the trigger.
+
+In another instant, that form--in my eyes, hitherto heroic--would have
+been lifeless upon the grass; but my comrades forbade the act.
+
+With a quick instinct, Hickman grasped the lock of my gun.  Covering the
+nipple with his broad palm; while Weatherford clutched at and held the
+barrel.  I was no longer master of the piece.
+
+I was angry at the interruption, but only for an instant.  A moment's
+reflection convinced me they had acted right.  The old hunter, putting
+his lips close to my ear, addressed me in an earnest whisper:
+
+"Not yit, Geordie, not yit; for your life, don't make a fuss!  'Twould
+be no use to kill _him_.  The rest o' the varmints ud be sartin to git
+off, and sartin to toat the weemen along wi' 'em.  We three aint enough
+to stop 'em--we'd only get scalped ourselves.  We must slide back for
+the others; an' then we'll be able to surround 'em--that's the idea,
+aint it, Jim?"
+
+Weatherford, fearing to trust his voice, nodded an affirmative.
+
+"Come, then," added Hickman, in the same low whisper, "we musn't lose a
+minute; let's get back as rapidly as possible.  Keep your backs low
+down--genteely, genteely;" and as he continued giving these injunctions,
+he faced towards the ground, extended his body to its full length, and,
+crawling off like an alligator, was soon lost behind the trunks of the
+trees.
+
+Weatherford and I followed in similar fashion, until safe beyond the
+circle of the fire light, when all three of us came to a stop, and arose
+erect to our feet.
+
+We stood for a moment listening _backwards_.  We were not without
+anxiety lest our retreat might have disturbed the camp; but no sounds
+reached us save those to which we had been listening--the snore of some
+sleeping savage, the "crop-crop" of the browsing horses, or the stamp of
+a hoof upon the firm turf.
+
+Satisfied that we had passed away unobserved, we started upon the
+back-track, which the hunters could now follow like a path well-known to
+them.
+
+We advanced, dark as it was, almost in a run; and were progressing
+rapidly, when our speed was suddenly checked by the report of a gun.
+
+Each halted as if shot.  Surprise it was that stopped us; for the report
+came not from the Indian camp, but the opposite direction--that in which
+our party had been left.
+
+But it could not be one of them who had fired.  They were at too great a
+distance for their guns to have been heard so distinctly.  Had they
+advanced nearer, tired of waiting for our return?  Were they still
+advancing?  If so, the shot was most imprudent; it would be certain to
+put the camp on the _qui vive_.  What had they fired at?  It might have
+been an accidental discharge--it must have been.
+
+These conjectures were rapid as thought itself.  We did not communicate
+them to one another; each fancied them for himself.
+
+We had scarce time even to speak, when a second shot rang in our ears.
+It came from the same direction as the former, appearing almost a
+repetition; and had there been time to reload, we should so have judged
+it; but there had not been time, even for the most accomplished
+rifleman.  Two guns, therefore, had been fired.
+
+My companions were puzzled as well as myself.  The firing was
+inexplicable under any other hypothesis than that some Indians had
+strayed from their camp and were making signals of distress.
+
+We had no time to reflect.  We could now hear behind us the camp in full
+alarm, and we knew it was the shots that had caused it.  We heard the
+shouts of men, the neighing and hurried trampling of horses.
+
+Without pausing longer, we again hurried onwards in the direction of our
+friends.
+
+Further on we perceived some men on horseback.  Two there appeared to
+be; but in the darkness we were not certain, as their forms were scarce
+distinguishable.
+
+They appeared to retreat as we approached, gliding off, like ghosts,
+among the trees.
+
+No doubt these were they who had fired the shots.  They were just in the
+direction whence the reports had come, and at the proper distance.
+
+Were they Indians or whites?  Hoping they were our friends, risking the
+chances of their being our foes, Old Hickman hailed them.
+
+We paused to listen.  There was no reply, not even an exclamation from
+either.  We could hear, by the hoof-strokes of their horses, that they
+were hurrying off in a direction altogether different from either our
+party or the camp.
+
+There was something mysterious in the behaviour of these horsemen.  For
+what purpose had they fired their guns?  If to signal the camp, why had
+they retreated from us, as we came from it?  Why, moreover, had they
+gone off in a direction that did not lead to it? for its position was
+now known to them by the noise of the alarm they had themselves
+occasioned.  To me their behaviour was inexplicable.  Hickman appeared
+to have found some clue to it, and the knowledge seemed to have a
+angular effect upon him.  He exhibited signs of surprise, mingled with
+strong feelings of indignation.
+
+"Devil swamp 'em! the wuthless skunks, if't are them, an' I'm good as
+sure it are.  I can't a be mistaken in the crack o' them two guns.  What
+say ye, Jim Weatherford?  D'ye recognise 'em?"
+
+"I war thinkin' I'd heern them afore somewhars, but I can't 'zactly tell
+whar--stay; one on 'em's precious like the ring o' Ned Spence's rifle."
+
+"Preecious like--it are the same; and t'other's Bill Williams's.  What
+on airth kin the two be arter?  We left 'em long wi' the rest, and hyar
+they are now--I'm sartint it's them, gallivantin' about through the
+woods, an' firin' off their guns to spoil everything we've done.
+They've sot the Indyuns off to a sartinty.  Devil swamp 'em both!--what
+_kin_ they be arter?--some hellnifferous game, I 'spect!  By the tarnal
+catawampus, I'll make both on 'em pay for this when we git thegither!
+Come along, quick, fellers!  Let's git the party up, or we'll be too
+late.  Them Indyuns'll make track, and slope afore we git near 'em.
+Darn the shots! they've spoilt the hull bizness.  Quick! come along
+hyar!"
+
+Obedient to the old hunter's directions, we hurried on after him.
+
+
+
+CHAPTER EIGHTY ONE.
+
+AN EMPTY CAMP.
+
+We had not gone far before we came within ear-shot of voices, mingled
+with the hollow thumping of horses' hoofs.
+
+We recognised the voices as those of our comrades, and hailed them as
+they came nearer, for we perceived that they were advancing towards us.
+
+They had heard the reports; and, believing them to proceed from our
+rifles, had fancied we were engaged with the Indians, and were now
+riding forwards to our aid.
+
+"Hollow, boys!" shouted Hickman, as they drew nearer.  "Is Bill Williams
+and Ned Spence among ye?  Speak out, if ye be!"
+
+There was no reply to this interrogatory.  It was succeeded by a dead
+silence of some seconds' duration.  Evidently the two men were not
+there, else they would have answered for themselves.
+
+"Where are they?"  "Where have they gone to?" were the inquiries that
+passed through the crowd.
+
+"Ay, whar are they?" repeated Hickman.  "Thar not hyar, that's plain.
+By the 'tarnal allygator, thar's some ugly game afoot atween them two
+fellers!  But, come, boys, we must forrad.  The Indyuns is jest afore
+ye: it's no use creepin' any more.  Thar a gwine to slope; and if we
+don't git up to 'em in three shakes o' a squirrel's tail, thar won't be
+a cussed varmint o' 'em on the groun'.  Hooraw for redskins' scalps!
+Look to your guns.  Let's forrad, and gie 'em partickler hell!"
+
+And with this emphatic utterance, the old hunter dashed into the front,
+and led the way towards the camp of the savages.
+
+The men followed, helter-skelter, the horses crowding upon each other's
+heels.  No strategic method was observed.  Time was the important
+consideration, and the aim was to get up to the camp before the Indians
+could retreat from it.  A bold charge into their midst, a volley from
+our guns, and then with knives and pistols to close the conflict.  This
+was the programme that had been hastily agreed upon.
+
+We had arrived near the camp--within three hundred yards of it.  There
+was no uncertainty as to the direction.  The voices of the savages, that
+continued to be heard ever since the first alarm, served to guide us on
+the way.
+
+All at once these voices became bushed.  No longer reached us, either
+the shouting of the men, or the hurried trampling of their horses.  In
+the direction of the camp all was still as death.
+
+But we no longer needed the guidance of sounds.  We were within sight of
+the camp fires--or at least of their light, that glittered afar among
+the trees.  With this as our beacon, we continued to advance.
+
+We rode forwards, but now less recklessly.  The change from confused
+noise to perfect silence had been so sudden and abrupt as to have the
+effect of making us more cautious.  The very stillness appeared
+ominous--we read in it a warning--it rendered us suspicious of an
+ambuscade--the more so as all had heard of the great talent of the
+"Redstick Chief" for this very mode of attack.
+
+When within a hundred yards of the fires, our party halted.  Several
+dismounted, and advanced on foot.  They glided from trunk to trunk till
+they had reached the edge of the opening, and then came back to report.
+
+The camp was no longer in existence--its occupants were gone.  Indians,
+horses, captives, plunder, had all disappeared from the ground!
+
+The fires alone remained.  They showed evidence of being disturbed in
+the confusion of the hasty decampment.  The red embers were strewed over
+the grass--their last flames faintly flickering away.
+
+The scouts continued to advance among the trees, till they had made the
+full circuit of the little opening.  For a hundred yards around it the
+woods were searched with caution and ease; but no enemy was
+encountered--no ambuscade.  We had arrived too late, and the savage foes
+had escaped us--had carried off their captives from under our very eyes.
+
+It was impossible to follow them in the darkness; and, with mortified
+spirits, we advanced into the opening, and took possession of the
+deserted camp.  It was our determination to remain there for the rest of
+the night, and renew the pursuit in the morning.
+
+Our first care was to quench our thirst by the pond--then that of our
+animals.  The fires were next extinguished, and a ring of sentries--
+consisting of nearly half the number of our party--was placed among the
+tree-trunks, that stood thickly around the opening.  The horses were
+staked over the ground, and the men stretched themselves along the sward
+so lately occupied by the bodies of their savage foes.  In this wise we
+awaited the dawning of day.
+
+To none of our party--not even to myself--was this escape of the enemy,
+or "circumvention," as he termed it, so mortifying as to old Hickman,
+who, though priding himself upon his superior cunning and woodcraft, was
+obliged to confess himself outwitted by a rascally Redstick.
+
+
+
+CHAPTER EIGHTY TWO.
+
+A DEAD FOREST.
+
+My comrades, wearied with the long ride, were soon in deep slumber--the
+sentries only keeping awake.  For me, was neither rest nor sleep--my
+misery forbade repose.
+
+Most of the night I spent in passing to and fro around the little pond,
+that lay faintly gleaming in the centre of the open ground.
+
+I fancied I found relief in thus roving about; it seemed to still the
+agitation of my spirit, and prevented my reflections from becoming too
+intense.
+
+A new regret occupied my thoughts--I regretted that I had not carried
+out my intention to fire at the chief of the murderers--I regretted I
+had not killed him on the spot--the monster had escaped, and my sister
+was still in his power--perhaps beyond the hope of rescue.  As I thought
+thus, I blamed the hunters for having hindered me.
+
+Had they foreseen the result, they might have acted otherwise; but it
+was beyond human foresight to have anticipated the alarm.
+
+The two men who had caused it were again with us.  Their conduct, so
+singular and mysterious, had given rise to strong suspicion of their
+loyalty, and their re-appearance--they had joined us while advancing
+towards the camp--had been hailed with an outburst of angry menace.
+Some even talked of shooting them out of their saddles, and this threat
+would most probably have been carried into effect, had the fellows not
+offered a ready explanation.
+
+They alleged that they had got separated from the troop before it made
+its last halt, how they did not say; that they knew nothing of the
+advance of the scouts, or that the Indians were near; that they had got
+lost in the woods, and had fired their guns as signals in hopes that we
+should answer them.  They acknowledged having met three men afoot, but
+they believed them to be Indians, and kept out of their way; that
+afterwards seeing the party near, they had recognised and ridden up to
+it.
+
+Most of the men were contented with this explanation.  What motive,
+reasoned they, could the two have in giving an alarm to the enemy?  Who
+could suspect them of rank treason?
+
+Not all, however, were satisfied; I heard old Hickman whisper some
+strange words to his comrade, as he glanced significantly towards the
+estrays.
+
+"Keep yur eye skinned, Jim, and watch the skunks well; thares somethin'
+not hulsome about 'em."
+
+As there was no one who could openly accuse them, they were once more
+admitted into the ranks, and were now among those who were stretched out
+and sleeping.
+
+They lay close to the edge of the water.  In my rounds, I passed them
+repeatedly; and in the sombre darkness, I could just distinguish their
+prostrate forms.  I regarded them with strange emotions, for I shared
+the suspicions of Hickman and Weatherford.  I could scarce doubt that
+these fellows had strayed off on purpose--that, actuated by some foul
+motive, they had fired their guns to warn the Indians of the approach of
+our party.
+
+After midnight there was a moon.  There were no clouds to intercept her
+beams, and on rising above the tree-tops, she poured down a flood of
+brilliant light.
+
+The sleepers were awakened by the sudden change; some rose to their
+feet, believing it to be day.  It was only upon glancing up to the
+heavens they became aware of their mistake.
+
+The noise had put every one on the alert, and some talked of continuing
+the pursuit by the light of the moon.
+
+Such a course would have coincided with my own wishes; but the
+hunter-guides opposed it.  Their reasons were just.  In open ground they
+could have lifted the trail, but under the timber the moon's light would
+not have availed them.
+
+They could have tracked by torch-light, but this would only be to expose
+us to an ambuscade of the enemy.  Even to advance by moonlight would be
+to subject ourselves to a like danger.  Circumstances had changed.  The
+savages now knew we were after them.  In a night-march the pursued have
+the advantage of the pursuers--even though their numbers be inferior.
+The darkness gives them every facility of effecting a surprise.
+
+Thus reasoned the guides.  No one made opposition to their views, and it
+was agreed that we should keep our ground till daylight.
+
+It was time to change the sentinels.  Those who had slept now took post,
+and the relieved guard came in and flung themselves down, to snatch a
+few hours of rest.
+
+Williams and Spence took their turn with the rest.  They were posted on
+one side the glade, and next to one another Hickman and Weatherford had
+fulfilled their guard tour.
+
+As they stretched themselves along the grass, I noticed that they had
+chosen a spot near to where the suspected men were placed.  By the
+moonlight, they must have had a view of the latter.
+
+Notwithstanding their recumbent attitudes, the hunters did not appear to
+go to sleep.  I observed them at intervals.  Their heads were close
+together, and slightly raised above the ground, as if they were
+whispering to one another.
+
+As before, I walked round and round--the moonlight enabling me to move
+more rapidly.  Ofttimes did I make the circuit of the little pond--how
+oft, it would be difficult to determine.
+
+My steps were mechanical--my thoughts had no connection with the
+physical exertions I was making, and I took no note of how I progressed.
+
+After a time there came a lull over my spirits.  For a short interval
+both my griefs and vengeful passions seemed to have departed.
+
+I knew the cause.  It was a mere psychological phenomenon--one of common
+occurrence.  The nerves that were organs of the peculiar emotions under
+which I had been suffering, had grown wearied and refused to act.  I
+knew it was but a temporary calm--the lull between two billows of the
+storm.
+
+During its continuance, I was sensible to impressions from external
+objects.  I could not help noticing the singularity of the scene around
+me.  The bright moonlight enabled me to note its features somewhat
+minutely.
+
+We were encamped upon what, by backwoodsmen, is technically termed a
+_glade_--oftener, in their idiom, a "gleed"--a small opening in the
+woods, without timber or trees of any sort.  This one was circular--
+about fifty yards in diameter--with the peculiarity of having a pond in
+its midst.  The pond, which was only a few yards in circumference, was
+also a circle, perfectly concentric with the glade itself.  It was one
+of those singular natural basins found throughout the peninsula, and
+appearing as if scooped out by mechanic art.  It was deeply sunk in the
+earth, and filled with water till within three feet of its rim.  The
+liquid was cool and clear, and under the moonbeams shone with a silvery
+effulgence.
+
+Of the glade itself nothing more--except that it was covered with
+sweet-smelling flowers, that now, crushed under the hoofs of horses and
+the heels of man, gave forth a redoubled fragrance.
+
+The picture was pretty.
+
+Under happier circumstances, I should have contemplated it with
+pleasure.  But it was not the picture that so much occupied my attention
+at that moment.  Rather was it the framing.
+
+Around the glade stood a ring of tall trees, as regular as if they had
+been planted; and beyond these, as far as the eye could penetrate the
+depths of the forest, were others of like size and aspect.  The trunks
+of all were nearly of one thickness--few of them reaching a diameter of
+two feet, but all rising to the height of many yards, without leaf or
+branch.  They stood somewhat densely over the ground, but in daylight
+the eye might have ranged to a considerable distance through the
+intervals, for there was no underwood--save the low dwarf palmetto--to
+interrupt the view.  They were straight, and almost cylindrical as
+palms; and they might have been mistaken for trees of this order, had it
+not been for their large heads of leaves terminating in cone-shaped
+summits.
+
+They were not palms--they were pines--"broom" pines [_Pinus Australis_],
+a species of trees with which I was perfectly familiar, having ridden
+many hundreds of miles shaded by the pendant fascicles of their acicular
+foliage.
+
+The sight of these trees, therefore, would have created no curiosity,
+had I not noticed in their appearance something peculiar.  Instead of
+the deep green which should have been exhibited by their long, drooping
+leaves, they appeared of a brownish yellow.
+
+Was it fancy? or was it the deceptive light of the moon that caused this
+apparent change from their natural hue?
+
+One or the other, soliloquised I, on first noticing them; but as I
+continued to gaze, I perceived that I was in error.  Neither my own
+fancy nor the moon's rays were at fault; the foliage was really of the
+colour it appeared to be.  Drawing nearer to them, I observed that the
+leaves were withered, though still adhering to the twigs.  I noticed,
+moreover, that the trunks were dry and dead-like--the bark scaled or
+scaling off--that the trees, in short, were dead and decaying.
+
+I remembered what Hickman had stated while groping for the direction.
+That was at some distance off; but, as far as I could see, the woods
+presented the same dim colour.
+
+I came to the conclusion that the _whole forest was dead_.
+
+The inference was correct, and the explanation easy.  The sphinx [Note
+1] had been at work.  The whole forest was dead.
+
+------------------------------------------------------------------------
+
+Note 1.  _Sphinae coniferarum_.  Immense swarms of insects, and
+especially the larva of the above species, insinuate themselves under
+the bark of the "long-leafed" (broom) pine, attack the trunk, and cause
+the tree to perish in the course of a year.  Extensive tracts are met
+with in Florida covered solely with dead pines that have been thus
+destroyed.
+
+
+
+CHAPTER EIGHTY THREE.
+
+A CIRCULAR CONFLICT.
+
+Strange as it may seem, even in that hour these observations had
+interested me; but while making them I observed something that gratified
+me still more.  It was the blue dawn that, mingling with the yellower
+light of the moon, affected the hue of the foliage upon which I had been
+gazing.  Morning was about to break.
+
+Others had noticed it at the same instant, and already the sleepers were
+rising from their dewy couch, and looking to the girths of their
+saddles.
+
+We were a hungry band; but there was no hope of breakfast, and we
+prepared to start without it.
+
+The dawn was of only a few minutes' duration, and, as the sky continued
+to brighten, preparations were made for the start.  The sentries were
+called in--all except four, who were prudently left to the last minute,
+to watch in four different directions.  The horses were unpicketed and
+bridled--they had worn their saddles all night--and the guns of the
+party were carefully re-primed or capped.
+
+Many of my comrades were old campaigners, and every precaution was taken
+that might influence our success in a conflict.
+
+It was expected that before noon we should come up with the savages, or
+track them home to their lair.  In either case, we should have a fight,
+and all declared their determination to go forwards.
+
+Some minutes were spent in arranging the order of our march.  It was
+deemed prudent that a few of the more skilled of the men should go
+forwards as scouts on foot, and thoroughly explore the woods before the
+advance of the main body.  This would secure us from any sudden attack,
+in case the enemy had formed an ambuscade.  The old hunters were once
+more to act as trackers, and lead the van.
+
+These arrangements were completed, and we were on the point of
+starting--the men had mounted their horses, the scouts were already
+entering the edge of the timber, when, all on a sudden, several shots
+were heard, and at the same time, the alarm-cries of the sentries who
+had fired them.  The four had discharged their pieces almost
+simultaneously.
+
+The woods appeared to ring with a hundred echoes.  But they were not
+echoes--they were real reports of rifles and musketry; and the shrill
+war-cry that accompanied them was easily distinguished above the
+shouting of our own sentries.  The Indians were upon us.
+
+Upon us, or, to speak less figuratively, _around_ us.  The sentries had
+fired all at once, therefore, each must have seen Indians in his own
+direction.  But it needed not this to guide us to the conclusion that we
+were surrounded.  From all sides came the fierce yells of the foe--as if
+echoing one another--and their bullets whistled past us in different
+directions.  Beyond doubt, the glade was encompassed within their lines.
+
+In the first volley two or three men were hit, and as many horses.  But
+the balls were spent and did but little damage.
+
+From where they had fired, the glade was beyond the "carry" of their
+guns.  Had they crept a little nearer, before delivering their fire, the
+execution would have been fearful--clumped together as we were at the
+moment.
+
+Fortunately, our sentries had perceived their approach, and in good time
+given the alarm.
+
+It had saved us.
+
+There was a momentary confusion, with noise--the shouting of men--the
+neighing and prancing of horses; but above the din was heard the guiding
+voice of old Hickman.
+
+"Off o' yer horses, fellers! an' take to the trees--down wi' ye, quick!
+To the trees, an' keep 'em back! or by the tarnal arthquake, every
+mother's son o' us'll git sculped!  To the trees! to the trees!"
+
+The same idea had already suggested itself to others; and before the
+hunter had ceased calling out, the men were out of their saddles and
+making for the edge of the timber.
+
+Some ran to one side, some to another--each choosing the edge that was
+nearest him, and in a few seconds our whole party had ensconced itself--
+the body of each individual sheltered behind the trunk of a tree.  In
+this position we formed a perfect circle, our backs turned upon each
+other, and our faces to the foe.
+
+Our horses, thus hurriedly abandoned, and wild with the excitement of
+the attack, galloped madly over the ground, with trailing bridles, and
+stirrups striking against their flanks.  Most of them dashed past us;
+and, scampering off, were either caught by the savages, or breaking
+through their lines, escaped into the woods beyond.
+
+We made no attempt to "head" them.  The bullets were hurtling past our
+ears.  It would have been certain death to have stepped aside from the
+trunks that sheltered us.
+
+The advantage of the position we had gained was apparent at a single
+glance.  Fortunate it was, that our sentries had been so tardily
+relieved.  Had these been called in a moment sooner, the surprise would
+have been complete.  The Indians would have advanced to the very edge of
+the glade, before uttering their war-cry or firing a shot, and we should
+have been at their mercy.  They would have been under cover of the
+timber, and perfectly protected from our guns, while we in the open
+ground must have fallen before their fire.
+
+But for the well-timed alarm, they might have massacred us at will.
+
+Disposed as we now were, our antagonists had not much advantage.  The
+trunks of the trees entrenched us both.  Only the concave side of our
+line was exposed, and the enemy might fire at it across the opening.
+But as the glade was fifty yards in diameter, and at no point had we
+permitted the Indians to get up to its edge, we knew that their bullets
+could not carry across; and were under no apprehension on this score.
+
+The manoeuvre, improvised though it was, had proved our salvation.  We
+now saw it was the only thing we could have done to save ourselves from
+immediate destruction.  Fortunate it was that the voice of Hickman had
+hurried us so quickly to our posts.
+
+Our men were not slow in returning the enemy's fire.  Already their
+pieces were at play; and every now and then was heard the sharp
+whip-like "spang" of the rifles around the circle of the glade.  At
+intervals, too, came a triumphant cheer, as some savage, who had too
+rashly exposed his red body, was known to have fallen to the shot.
+
+Again the voice of the old hunter rang over the glade.  Cool, calm, and
+clear, it was heard by every one.
+
+"Mind yer hind sights, boys! an' shoot sure.  Don't waste neer a grain
+o' yer powder.  Ye'll need the hul on't, afore we've done wi' the cussed
+niggers.  Don't a one o' ye pull trigger till ye've drawed a bead on a
+red skin."
+
+These injunctions were full of significance.  Hitherto the younger
+"hands" had been firing somewhat recklessly--discharging their pieces as
+soon as loaded, and only wounding the trunks of the trees.  It was to
+stay this proceeding that Hickman had spoken.
+
+His words produced the desired effect.  The reports became less
+frequent, but the triumphant cheer that betokened a "hit," was heard as
+often as ever.  In a few minutes after the first burst of the battle,
+the conflict had assumed altogether a new aspect.  The wild yells
+uttered by the Indians in their first onslaught--intended to frighten us
+into confusion--were no longer heard; and the shouts of the white men
+had also ceased.  Only now and then were heard the deep "hurrah" of
+triumph, or a word spoken by some of our party to give encouragement to
+his comrades.  At long intervals only rang out the "yo-ho-ehee," uttered
+by some warrior chief to stimulate his braves to the attack.
+
+The shots were no longer in volleys, but single, or two or three at a
+time.  Every shot was fired with an aim; and it was only when that aim
+proved true, or he who fired it believed it so, that voices broke out on
+either side.  Each individual was too much occupied in looking for an
+object for his aim, to waste time in idle words or shouts.  Perhaps in
+the whole history of war, there is no account of a conflict so quietly
+carried on--no battle so silently fought.  In the interludes between the
+shots there were moments when the stillness was intense--moments of
+perfect but ominous silence.
+
+Neither was battle ever fought, in which both sides were so oddly
+arrayed against each other.  We were disposed in two concentric
+circles--the outer one formed by the enemy, the inner, by the men of our
+party, deployed almost regularly around the glade.  These circles were
+scarce forty paces apart--at some points perhaps a little less, where a
+few of the more daring warriors, sheltered by the trees, had worked
+themselves closer to our line.  Never was battle fought where the
+contending parties were so near each other without closing in
+hand-to-hand conflict.  We could have conversed with our antagonists,
+without raising our voices above the ordinary tone; and were enabled to
+aim, literally, at the "whites of their eyes."
+
+Under such circumstances was the contest carried on.
+
+
+
+CHAPTER EIGHTY FOUR.
+
+A DEAD SHOT BY JAKE.
+
+For fall two hours this singular conflict was continued, without any
+material change in the disposition of the combatants.  Now and then an
+odd man might be seen darting from tree to tree, with a velocity as if
+projected from a howitzer--his object either to find a trunk that would
+afford better cover to his own body, or a point that would uncover the
+body--or a portion of it--of some marked antagonist.
+
+The trunks were barely thick enough to screen us; some kept on their
+feet, taking the precaution to make themselves as "small" as possible,
+by standing rigidly erect, and keeping their bodies carefully aligned.
+Others, perceiving that the pines "bulged" a little at the roots, had
+thrown themselves flat upon their faces, and in this attitude continued
+to load and fire.
+
+The sun was long since ascending the heavens--for it had been near
+sunrise when the conflict began.  There was no obscurity to hide either
+party from the view of the other, though in this the Indians had a
+slight advantage on account of the opening in our rear.  But even in the
+depth of the forest there was light enough for our purpose.  Many of the
+dead fascicles had fallen--the ground was deeply bedded with them--and
+those that still drooped overhead formed but a gauzy screen against the
+brilliant beams of the sun.  There was light sufficient to enable our
+marksmen to "sight" any object as large as a dollar piece, that chanced
+to be within range of their rifles.  A hand--a portion of an arm--a leg
+badly aligned--a jaw bone projecting outside the bark--a pair of
+shoulders too brawny for the trunk that should have concealed them--even
+the outstanding skirt of a dress, was sure to draw a shot--perhaps two--
+from one side or the other.  A man to have exposed his full face for ten
+seconds would have been almost certain of receiving a bullet through his
+skull, for on both sides there were sharpshooters.
+
+Thus two hours had passed, and without any great injury received or
+inflicted by either party.  There were some "casualties," however, and
+every now and then a fresh incident added to the number, and kept up the
+hostile excitement.  We had several wounded--one or two severely--and
+one man killed.  The latter was a favourite with our men, and his death
+strengthened their desire for vengeance.
+
+The Indian loss must have been greater.  We had seen several fall to our
+shots.  In our party were some of the best marksmen in Florida.  Hickman
+was heard to declare he "had drawed a bead upon three, and wherever he
+drawed his bead he was dog-goned sartin to put his bullet."  Weatherford
+had shot his man, killing him on the spot.  This was beyond conjecture,
+for the dead body of the savage could be seen lying between two trees
+where it had fallen.  His comrades feared that in dragging it away, they
+might expose themselves to that terrible rifle.
+
+The Indians had not yet learned that refinement of civilised warriors,
+who seek from their opponents a temporary truce in which to pay an empty
+compliment to the dead, while with cunning eye and wary step they seize
+the opportunity to scrutinise where to make the most effectual onslaught
+upon the living.
+
+After a time, the Indians began to practise a chapter of tactics, which
+proved that in this mode of warfare they were our superiors.  Instead of
+one, two of them would place themselves behind a tree, or two trees that
+stood close together, and as soon as one fired, the other was ready to
+take aim.  Of course, the man at whom the first shot had been
+discharged, fancying his _vis-a-vis_ now carried an empty gun, would be
+less careful about his person, and likely enough to expose it.
+
+This proved to be the case, for before the bit of craft was discovered,
+several of our men received wounds, and one man of our number was shot
+dead by his tree.  This ruse freshly exasperated our men--the more so
+that they could not reciprocate the strategy, since our numbers were not
+sufficient to have taken post by "twos."  It would have thinned our line
+so that we could not have defended the position.
+
+We were compelled, therefore, to remain as we were--more careful not to
+expose ourselves to the cunning "fence" of our enemies.
+
+There was one case, however, in which the savages were paid back in
+their own coin.  Black Jake and I were partners in this _revanche_.
+
+We occupied two trees almost close together; and had for antagonists no
+less than three savages, who had been all the morning most active in
+firing at us.  I had received one of their bullets through the sleeve of
+my coat, and Jake had the dandruff driven out of his wool, but neither
+of us had been wounded.
+
+During the contest I had got "sight" upon one, and fancied I had spilled
+his blood.  I could not be certain, however, as the three were well
+sheltered behind a clump of trees, and covered, also, by a thicket of
+dwarf palmettoes.
+
+One of these Indians, Jake wished particularly to kill.  He was a huge
+savage--much larger than either of the others.  He wore a head-dress of
+king vulture plumes, and was otherwise distinguished by his costume.  In
+all probability, a chief.  What was most peculiar in this man's
+appearance was his face, for we could see it at intervals, though only
+for an instant at a time.  It was covered all over with a scarlet
+pigment--vermilion it was--and shone through the trees like a
+counterpart of the sun.
+
+It was not this, however, that had rendered the Indian an object of
+Jake's vengeance.  The cause was different.  The savage had noticed
+Jake's peculiar colour, and had taunted him with it several times during
+the fray.  He spoke in his native tongue, but Jake comprehended it well
+enough.  He was spited--exasperated--and vowed vengeance against the
+scarlet chief.
+
+I contrived at length to give him an opportunity.  Cunningly adjusting
+my cap, so that it appeared to contain my head, I caused it to protrude
+a little around the trunk of the tree.  It was an old and well-known
+ruse, but for all that, in Jake's phraseology, it "fooled" the Indian.
+
+The red countenance appeared above the palmettoes.  A puff of smoke rose
+from below it.  The cap was jerked out of my hand as I heard the report
+of the shot that had done it.
+
+A little after, I heard another crack, louder and nearer--the report of
+the negro's piece.  I peeped around the tree to witness the effect.  A
+spot of darker red dappled the bright disk of the Indian's face--the
+vermilion seemed suddenly encrimsoned.  It was but a glance I had, for
+in the next instant the painted savage doubled back among the bushes.
+
+During all the time we had been engaged, the Indians did not appear
+desirous of advancing upon us--although, certainly, they were superior
+to us in point of numbers.  The party we had been pursuing must have
+been joined by another one as numerous as itself.  Not less than a
+hundred were now upon the ground, and had been so from the beginning of
+the fight.  But for this accession they would hardly have dared to
+attack us, and but for it we should have charged them at once, and tried
+the chances of a hand-to-hand conflict.  We had seen, however, that they
+far outnumbered us, and were content to hold our position.
+
+They appeared satisfied with theirs, though by closing rapidly inwards
+they might have overpowered us.  After all, their ranks would have been
+smartly thinned before reaching our line, and some of their best men
+would have fallen.  No men calculate such chances more carefully than
+Indians; and perhaps none are inferior to them in charging a foe that is
+entrenched.  The weakest fort--even the most flimsy stockade--can be
+easily defended against the red warriors of the West.
+
+Their intention having been foiled by the failure of their first charge,
+they appeared not to contemplate another--contented to hold us in
+siege--for to that situation were we, in reality, reduced.  After a
+time, their firing became less frequent, until it nearly ceased
+altogether, but we knew that this did not indicate any intention to
+retreat; on the contrary, we saw some of them kindling fires afar off in
+the woods, no doubt with the design of cooking their breakfasts.
+
+There was not a man among us who did not envy them their occupation.
+
+
+
+CHAPTER EIGHTY FIVE.
+
+A MEAGRE MEAL.
+
+To us the partial armistice was of no advantage.  We dared not stir from
+the trees.  Men were athirst, and water within sight--the pond
+glittering in the centre of the glade.  Better there had been none,
+since they dared not approach it.  It only served to tantalise them.
+The Indians were seen to eat, without leaving their lines.  A few waited
+on the rest, and brought them food from the fires.  Women were observed
+passing backwards and forwards, almost within range of our guns.
+
+We were, all of us, hungry as famished wolves.  We had been twenty-four
+hours without tasting food--even longer than that--and the sight of our
+enemies, feasting before our very faces, gave a keen edge to our
+appetites, at the same time rekindling our indignation.  They even
+taunted us on our starving condition.
+
+Old Hickman had grown furious.  He was heard to declare that he "war
+hungry enough to eat a Indyen raw, if he could git his teeth upon one,"
+and he looked as if he would have carried but the threat.
+
+"The sight o' cussed red skins," continued he, "swallerin' hul collops
+o' meat, while Christyian whites haint neery a bone to pick, are enough
+to rile one to the last jeint in the eends o' the toes--by the tarnal
+allygator, it ar!"
+
+It is a bare place, indeed, where such men as Hickman and Weatherford
+will not find resources; and the energies of both were now bent upon
+discovery.  They were seen scratching among the dead needles of the
+pines, that, as already stated, formed a thick layer over the surface of
+the ground.
+
+Of what were they in search? worms?--grubs?--larvae or lizards?  One
+might have fancied so; but no--it had not come to that.  Hungry as they
+were, they were not yet ready to feed upon the _reptilia_.  A better
+resource had suggested itself to them; and shortly after, an exclamation
+of joy announced that they had discovered the object of their search.
+
+Hickman was seen holding up a brownish coloured mass, of conical form,
+somewhat resembling a large pineapple.  It was a cone of the broom pine,
+easily recognisable by its size and shape.
+
+"Now, fellers!" shouted he, in a voice loud enough to be heard by all
+around the glade, "jest gather a wheen o' these hyar tree-eggs, and
+break 'em open; ye'll find kurnels inside o' 'em that aint bad chawin'--
+they aint equal to hog an' hominy; but we hant got hog an' hominy, and
+these hyar'll sarve in a pinch, I reck'n.  Ef ye'll only root among the
+rubbage aroun' ye, ye'll scare up a wheen--jest try it."
+
+The suggestion was eagerly adopted, and in an instant "all hands" were
+seen scratching up the dead leaves in search of pine cones.
+
+Some of these were found lying upon the surface, near at hand, and were
+easily procured, while others, were jerked within reach by ramrods or
+the barrels of rifles.  Less or more, every one was enabled to obtain a
+supply.
+
+The cones were quickly cut open, and the kernels greedily devoured.  It
+was by no means an inferior food; for the seeds of the broom pine are
+both nutritive and pleasant to the palate.  Their quality gave universal
+satisfaction--it was only in quantity they were deficient, for there was
+not enough of them within reach to stay the cravings of fifty stomachs
+hungry as ours were.
+
+There was some joking over this dry breakfast, and the more reckless of
+the party laughed while they ate, as though it had been a nutting
+frolic.  But the laughter was short-lived--our situation was too serious
+to admit of much levity.
+
+It was an interval while the firing of the enemy had slackened, almost
+ceased; and we had ample time to consider the perils of our position.
+Up to this time, it had not occurred to us that, in reality, we were
+_besieged_.  The hurried excitement of the conflict had left us no time
+for reflection.  We only looked upon the affair as a skirmish that must
+soon come to an end, by one side or the other proving victorious.
+
+The contest no longer wore that look; it had assumed the aspect of a
+regular siege.  We were encompassed on every side--shut up as if in a
+fortress, but not half so secure.  Our only stockade was the circle of
+standing trees, and we had no blockhouse to retire to--no shelter in the
+event of being wounded.  Each man was a sentry, with a _tour_ of guard
+duty that must be continual!
+
+Our situation was indeed perilous in the extreme.  There was no prospect
+of escape.  Our horses had all galloped off long since; one only
+remained, lying dead by the side of the pond.  It had been killed by a
+bullet, but it was not from the enemy.  Hickman had fired the shot; I
+saw him, and wondered at the time what could be his object.  The hunter
+had his reasons, but it was only afterwards I learned them.
+
+We could hold our ground against five times our number--almost any
+odds--but how about food?  Thirst we did not fear.  At night we should
+have relief.  Under the cover of night we could approach the pond, one
+after another.
+
+We had no apprehension from want of water; but how about food?  The
+cones we had gathered were but a bite; there were no more within reach;
+we must yield to hunger--to famine.
+
+We conversed with one another freely, as if face to face.  We canvassed
+our prospects; they were gloomy enough.
+
+How was the affair to end?  How were we to be delivered from our
+perilous situation?  These were the questions that occupied the thoughts
+of all.
+
+We could think of only one plan that offered a plausible chance of
+escape; and that was to hold our position until nightfall, make a sally
+in the darkness, and fight our way through the lines of our foes.  It
+would be running the gauntlet; a few of us would certainly fall--perhaps
+many--but some would escape.  To stay where we were would be to expose
+our whole party to certain sacrifice.  There was no likelihood of our
+being rescued by others; no one entertained such a hope.  As soon as
+hunger overcame us, we should be massacred to a man.
+
+Rather than patiently abide such a fate, we resolved, while yet strong,
+to risk all chances, and fight our way through the enemy's line.
+Darkness would favour the attempt; and thus resolved, we awaited the
+going down of the sun.
+
+
+
+CHAPTER EIGHTY SIX.
+
+A BULLET FROM BEHIND.
+
+If we thought the time long, it was not from want of occupation.  During
+the day, the Indians at intervals renewed their attack; and
+notwithstanding all our vigilance, we had another man killed, and
+several slightly wounded.
+
+In these skirmishes, the savages showed a determination to get nearer
+our line, by making their advances from tree to tree.
+
+We perfectly understood their object in this.  It was not that they had
+any design of closing with us, though their numbers might have justified
+them in doing so.  They were now far more numerous than at the beginning
+of the fight.  Another fresh band had arrived upon the ground--for we
+had heard the shouts of welcome that hailed their coming.
+
+But even with this accession of strength, they did not design to come to
+the encounter of sharp weapons.  Their purpose in advancing was
+different.  They had perceived that by getting close to our convex line,
+they would be near enough to fire upon those on the opposite side of the
+glade, who, of course, were then exposed to their aim.
+
+To prevent this, therefore, became our chief object and anxiety, and it
+was necessary to redouble our vigilance.
+
+We did so, regarding with scrutinous glances the trunks behind which we
+knew the savages were skulking, and eyeing them as keenly as the ferret
+hunter watches the burrows of the warren.
+
+They had but slight success in their endeavours to advance.  It cost
+them several of their boldest men; for the moment one of them essayed to
+rush forwards, the cracks of three or four rifles could be heard; and
+one of these was sure to deliver its messenger of death.  The Indians
+soon became tired of attempting this dangerous manoeuvre; and as evening
+approached, appeared to give up their design, and content themselves by
+holding us in siege.
+
+We were glad when the sun set and the twilight came on; it would soon
+pass, and we should be able to reach the water.  The men were maddened
+with thirst, for they had been suffering from it throughout the whole
+day.  During the daylight many would have gone to the pond, had they not
+been restrained by the precepts of the more prudent, and perhaps more
+effectually by an example of which they had all been witnesses.  One,
+more reckless than the rest, had risked the attempt; he succeeded in
+reaching the water, drank to satisfaction, and was hastening back to his
+post, when a shot from the savages stretched him dead upon the sward.
+He was the man last killed; and his lifeless body now lay in the open
+ground, before the eyes of his comrades.
+
+It proved a warning to all; for, despite the torture of thirst, no one
+cared to repeat the rash experiment.
+
+At length the welcome darkness descended--only a glimmer of grey light
+lingered in the leaden sky.  Men in twos and threes were now seen
+approaching the pond.  Like spectres they moved, silently gliding over
+the open ground, but in stooping attitudes, and heads bent eagerly
+forwards in the direction of the water.
+
+We did not all go at once--though all were alike eager to quench their
+thirst--but the admonitions of the old hunter had their effect: and the
+more continent agreed to bear their pangs a little longer, and wait till
+the others should get back to their posts.
+
+It was prudent we so acted; for, at this crisis, the Indians--no doubt
+suspecting what was going forward--renewed their fire with fresh energy.
+
+Whole volleys were discharged inwards and without aim, the darkness must
+have hindered an aim, but for all that, the bullets buzzed past our ears
+as thickly as hornets upon their flight.  There was a cry raised that
+the enemy was closing upon us; and those who had gone to the water
+rushed rapidly back--some even without staying to take the much desired
+drink.
+
+During all this time I had remained behind my tree.  My black follower
+had also stuck to his post like a faithful sentinel as he was.  We
+talked of relieving one another by turns.  Jake insisted that I should
+"drink first."
+
+I had partially consented to this arrangement, when the fire of the
+enemy suddenly reopened.  Like others, we were apprehensive that the
+savages were about to advance; and we knew the necessity of keeping them
+back.  We agreed to keep our ground for a little longer.
+
+I had "one eye round the trunk of the tree, with my rifle raised" to the
+level--and was watching for a flash from the gun of some savage, to
+guide me in my aim--when, all on a sudden, I felt my arm jerked upwards,
+and my gun shaken out of my grasp.
+
+There was no mystery about it.  A bullet had passed through my arm,
+piercing the muscles that upheld it.  I had shown too much of my
+shoulder, and was wounded--nothing more.
+
+My first thought was to look to my wound.  I felt it distinctly enough,
+and that enabled me to discover the place.  I saw that the ball had
+passed through the upper part of my right arm, just below the shoulder,
+and in its further progress had creased the breast of my uniform coat,
+where its trace was visible in the torn cloth.
+
+There was still light sufficient to enable me to make these
+observations; and furthermore, that a thick stream of blood was gushing
+from the wound.
+
+I commenced unbuttoning my coat, the better to get at the wound.  The
+black was ready by my side, rending his shirt into ribbons.
+
+All at once I heard him uttering an exclamation of surprise followed by
+the words, "Gorramighty!  Mass George--dat shot come from ahind!"
+
+"From behind?"  I shouted, echoing his words, and once more looking to
+the wound.
+
+"Yes, mass, yes--sartin he come from ahind."
+
+Some suspicion of this had already been in my thoughts: I fancied that I
+had "_felt_" the shot from that quarter.
+
+It had been no fancy.  On a more minute examination of the wound, and
+the torn traces upon the breast of my coat, the direction of the bullet
+was plainly perceived.  Undoubtedly it had struck me from behind.
+
+"Good God, Jake!"  I exclaimed, "it is so.  The Indians have advanced to
+the other side of the glade--we are lost!"
+
+Under this belief, we both faced towards the opening, when at that
+moment, as if to confirm us, another bullet whistled past our ears, and
+struck with a heavy "thud" into the tree by which we were kneeling.
+This one had certainly been fired from the other side of the glade--we
+saw the flash and heard the report of the gun that had sent it.
+
+What had become of our comrades on that side?  Had they abandoned their
+posts, and permitted the Indians to advance?  Were they all by the pond,
+and thus neglecting their duty?
+
+These were the first conjectures both of my companion and myself.  It
+was too dark for us to see our men under the shadows of the pines, but
+neither did they appear in the open ground.  We were puzzled, and
+shouted aloud for an explanation.
+
+If there were replies, we heard them not--for at that moment a wild yell
+from our savage enemies drowned all other cries, and a sight burst upon
+our eyes that caused the blood to curdle within our veins.
+
+Directly in point of the position that Jake and I held, and close to the
+Indian line, a red flame was seen suddenly springing up from the earth.
+It rose in successive puffs, each leaping higher and higher, until it
+had ascended among the tops of the trees.  It resembled the flashes of
+large, masses of gunpowder ignited upon the ground, and such in reality
+it was.  We read the intention at a glance.  The Indians were attempting
+to fire the forest!
+
+Their success was almost instantaneous.  As soon as the sulphureous
+blaze came in contact with the withered fascicles of foliage, the latter
+caught as though they had been tinder; and with the velocity of
+projected rockets, the flames shot out in different directions, and
+danced far above the tops of the tree.  We looked around; on all sides
+we beheld a similar spectacle.  That wild yell had been the signal for a
+circle of fires.  The glade was encompassed by a wall of flame--red,
+roaring, and gigantic.  The whole forest was on fire.  From all points
+the flame appeared closing inwards, sweeping the trees as if they had
+been withered grass, and leaping in long spurts high into the heavens.
+
+The smoke now came thick and heavy around us--each moment growing denser
+as the fire approached--while the heated atmosphere was no longer
+endurable.  Already it stifled our breathing.
+
+Destruction stared us in the face, and men shouted in despair.  But the
+roar of the burning pines drowned their voices, and one could not hear
+even his comrade who was nearest.  Their looks were significant--for
+before the smoke fell, the glade was lit up with intense brilliance, and
+we could see one another with unnatural distinctness.  In the faces of
+all appeared the anxiety of awe.
+
+Not long continued I to share it.  Too much blood had escaped from my
+neglected wound; I tried to make into the open ground, as I saw others
+doing; but, before I got two steps from the tree, my limbs tottered
+beneath me, and I fell fainting to the earth.
+
+
+
+CHAPTER EIGHTY SEVEN.
+
+A JURY AMID THE FIRE.
+
+I had a last thought, as I fell.  It was that my life had reached its
+termination--that in a few seconds my body would be embraced by the
+flames, and I should horribly perish.  The thought drew from me a feeble
+scream; and with that scream my consciousness forsook me.  I was as
+senseless as if dead--indeed, so far as sensibility went, I _was_ dead;
+and, had the flames at that moment swept over me, I should not have felt
+them.  In all probability, I might have been burned to a cinder without
+further pain.
+
+During the interval of my unconsciousness, I had neither dream nor
+apparition.  By this, I knew that my soul must have forsaken its earthly
+tenement.  It may have been hovering above or around, but it was no
+longer within me.  It had separated from my senses, that were all dead.
+
+Dead, but capable of being restored to life, and haply a restorative was
+at hand, with one capable to administer it.
+
+When my soul returned, the first perception I had was that I was up to
+my neck in water.  I was in the pond, and in a recumbent position--my
+limbs and body under the water, with only my head above the surface,
+resting against the bank.  A man was kneeling over me, himself half
+immersed.
+
+My returning senses soon enabled me to tell who the man was--my faithful
+Jake.  He had my pulse in his hand, and was gazing into my features with
+silent earnestness.  As my open eyes replied to his gaze, he uttered an
+exclamation of joy, and the words: "Golly, Massa George! you lib--thank
+be to Gorramighty, you lib.  Keep up ya heart, young massa--you's a
+gwine to git ober it--sartin, your a gwine to git ober it."
+
+"I hope so, Jake," was my reply, in a weak voice; but, feeble though it
+was, it roused the faithful fellow into a transport of delight, and he
+continued to utter his cheering ejaculations.
+
+I was able to raise my head and look around.  It was a dread spectacle
+that on all sides greeted my eyes, and there was plenty of light
+wherewith to view it.  The forest was still on fire, burning with a
+continued roar, as of thunder or a mighty wind--varied with hissing
+noises, and loud crackling that resembled the platoon firing of
+musketry.  One might have fancied it a fusilade from the Indians, but
+that was impossible.  They must have long since retreated before the
+spreading circle of that all-consuming conflagration.  There was less
+flame than when I had last looked upon it; and less smoke in the
+atmosphere.  The dry foliage had been suddenly reduced to a cinder, and
+the twiggy fragments had fallen to the earth, where they lay in a dense
+bed of glowing embers.
+
+Out of this rose the tall trunks, half stripped of their branches, and
+all on fire.  The crisp scaling bark had caught freely, and the resinous
+sapwood was readily yielding to the flames.  Many had burned far
+inwards, and looked like huge columns of iron heated to redness.  The
+spectacle presented an aspect of the infernal world.
+
+The sense of feeling, too, might have suggested fancies of the same
+region.  The heat was intense to an extreme degree.  The atmosphere
+quivered with the drifting caloric.  The hair had crisped upon our
+heads--our skins had the feel of blistering, and the air we inhaled
+resembled steam from the 'scape pipe of an engine.
+
+Instinctively I looked for my companions.  A group of a dozen or more
+were upon the open ground near the edge of the pond, but these were not
+all.  There should have been nearer fifty.  Where were the others?  Had
+they perished in the flames?  Where were they?
+
+Mechanically, I put the question to Jake.
+
+"Thar, massa," he replied, pointing downwards, "Tha dey be safe yet--
+ebbery one ob un, I blieve."
+
+I looked across the surface of the pond.  Three dozen roundish objects
+met my glance.  They were the heads of my companions.  Like myself,
+their bodies were submerged, most of them to the neck.  They had thus
+placed themselves to shun the smoke, as well as the broiling heat.
+
+But the others--they on the bank--why had they not also availed
+themselves of this cunning precaution?  Why were they still standing
+exposed to the fierce heat, and amid the drifting clouds of smoke?
+
+The latter had grown thin and gauze-like.  The forms of the men were
+seen distinctly through it, magnified as in a mist.  Like giants they
+were striding over the ground, and the guns in their hands appeared of
+colossal proportions.  Their gestures were abrupt, and their whole
+bearing showed they were in a state of half frenzied excitement.
+
+It was natural enough amidst the circumstances that surrounded them.  I
+saw they were the principal men of our party.  I saw Hickman and
+Weatherford both gesticulating freely among them.  No doubt they were
+counselling how we should act.
+
+This was the conjecture I derived from my first glance; but a further
+survey of the group convinced me I was in error.  It was no deliberation
+about our future plans.  In the lull between the volleys of the
+crackling pines, I could hear their voices.  They were those of men
+engaged in angry dispute.  The voices of Hickman and Weatherford
+especially reached my ear, and I perceived they were talking in a tone
+that betokened a high state of indignation.
+
+At this moment, the smoke drifting aside, discovered a group still
+further from the edge of the pond.  There were six men standing in
+threes, and I perceived that the middle man of each three was tightly
+grasped by the two others.  Two of them were prisoners!  Were they
+Indians? two of our enemies, who, amid the confusion of the fire, had
+strayed into the glade, and been captured?
+
+It was my first thought; but at that instant, a jet of flame, shooting
+upwards, filled the glade with a flood of brilliant light.  The little
+group thus illuminated could be seen as distinctly as by the light of
+day.
+
+I was no longer in doubt about the captives.  Their faces were before
+me, white and ghastly as if with fear.  Even the red light failed to
+tinge them with its colour; but wan as they were, I had no difficulty in
+recognising them.  They were Spence and Williams.
+
+
+
+CHAPTER EIGHTY EIGHT.
+
+QUICK EXECUTIONERS.
+
+I turned to the black for an explanation, but before he could make reply
+to my interrogatory, I more than half comprehended the situation.
+
+My own plight admonished me.  I remembered my wound--I remembered that I
+had received it from _behind_.  I remembered that the bullet that struck
+the tree, came from the same quarter.  I thought we had been indebted to
+the savages for the shots; but no, worse savages--Spence and Williams
+were the men who had fired them!
+
+The reflection was awful--the motive mysterious.
+
+And now returned to my thoughts the occurrences of the preceding night--
+the conduct of these two fellows in the forest--the suspicious hints
+thrown out by old Hickman and his comrades, and far beyond the preceding
+night, other circumstances, well marked upon my memory, rose freshly
+before me.
+
+Here again was the hand of Arens Ringgold.  O God, to think that this
+arch-monster--
+
+"Dar only a tryin' them two daam raskell," said Jake, in reply to the
+interrogatory I had put, "daat's what they am about, Mass'r George,
+dat's all."
+
+"Who?"  I asked mechanically, for I already knew who were meant by the
+"two daam raskell."
+
+"Lor, Massr George? doant you see um ober yonder--Spence an' William--
+golly! tha'r boaf as white as peeled pumpkins!  It war them that shot
+you, an' no Indians, arter all.  I knowd dat from tha fust, an' I tol'
+Mass' Hickman de same; but Mass' Hickman 'clare he see um for hisself--
+an' so too Mass' Weatherford--boaf seed 'um fire tha two shots.  Thar a
+tryin' 'on 'em for tha lives, dat's what tha men am doin'."
+
+With strange interest I once more turned my eyes outward, and gazed,
+first at one group, then the other.  The fire was now making less
+noise--the sapwood having nearly burnt out--and the detonations caused
+by the escape of the pent gases from the cellular cavities of the wood
+had grown less frequent.  Voices could be heard over the glade, those of
+the improvised jury.
+
+I listened attentively.  I perceived that a dispute was still raging
+between them.  They were not agreed upon their verdict--some advocating
+the immediate death of the prisoners; while others, adverse to such
+prompt punishment, would have kept them for further inquiry.
+
+There were some who could not credit their guilt--the deed was too
+atrocious, and hence improbable; under what motive could they have
+committed it?  At such a time, too, with their own lives in direst
+jeopardy?
+
+"Ne'er a bit o' jeppurdy," exclaimed Hickman in reply to the
+interrogatory, "ne'er a bit o' jeppurdy.  Thar haint been a shot fired
+at eyther on 'em this hul day.  I tell ye, fellers, thar's a
+un'erstannin' 'atween them an' the Indyens.  Thar no better'n spies, an'
+thar last night's work proves it; an' but for the breakin' out of the
+fire, which they didn't expect, they'd been off arter firin' the shots.
+'Twar all bamfoozle about thar gettin' lost--them fellers git lost,
+adeed!  Both on 'em knows these hyar wuds as well as the anymals thet
+lives in 'em.  Thum both been hyar many's the time, an' a wheen too
+often, I reckin.  Lost! wagh!  Did yez iver hear o' a coon gittin'
+lost?"  Some one made reply, I did not hear what was said, but the voice
+of the hunter again sounded distinct and clear.
+
+"Ye palaver about thar motive--I s'pose you mean thar reezuns for sech
+bloody bizness!  Them, I acknullidge, aint clar, but I hev my sespicions
+too.  I aint a gwine to say who or what.  Thar's some things as mout be,
+an' thar's some as moutn't; but I've seed queer doin's in these last
+five yeern, an' I've heern o' others; an if what I've heern be's true--
+what I've seed I know to be--then I tell ye, fellers, thar's a bigger
+than eyther o' thesen at the bottom o' the hul bizness--that's what thar
+be."
+
+"But do you really say you saw them take aim in that direction; are you
+sure of that?"
+
+This inquiry was put by a tall man who stood in the midst of the
+disputing party--a man of advanced age, and of somewhat severe aspect.
+I knew him as one of our neighbours in the settlement--an extensive
+planter--who had some intercourse with my uncle, and out of friendship
+for our family had joined the pursuit.
+
+"Sure," echoed the old hunter with emphasis, and not without some show
+of indignation; "didn't me an' Jim Weatherford see 'em wi' our own two
+eyes? an' thar good enough, I reckin, to mark sich varmints as them.
+We'd been a watchin' 'em all day, for we knowd thar war somethin' ugly
+afoot.  We seed 'em both fire acrost the gleed--an' sight plum-centre at
+young Randolph; besides, the black himself sez that the two shots comed
+that away.  What more proof kin you want?"
+
+At this moment I heard a voice by my side.  It was that of Jake, calling
+out to the crowd.
+
+"Mass' Hickman," cried he, "if dey want more proof, I b'lieve dis nigger
+can gib it.  One ob de bullets miss young mass'r, an' stuck in da tree;
+yonner's the verry tree itself, that we wa behind, it ain't burn yet, it
+no take fire; maybe, gen'lem'n, you mout find tha bullet tha still?
+maybe you tell what gun he 'longs to?"
+
+The suggestion was instantly adopted.  Several men ran towards the tree
+behind which Jake and I had held post; and which, with a few others--
+near it, for some reason or other--had escaped the flames, and still
+stood with trunks unscathed in the foreground of the conflagration.
+
+Jake ran with the rest and pointed out the spot.
+
+The bark was scrutinised, the hole found, and the leaden witness
+carefully picked out.  It was still in its globe shape, slightly torn by
+the grooves of the barrel.  It was a rifle ballet, and one of the very
+largest size.
+
+It was known that Spence carried a piece of large calibre.  But the guns
+of all the party were paraded, and their measure taken.  The bullet
+would enter the barrel of no other rifle save that of Spence.
+
+The conclusion was evident--the verdict was no longer delayed.  It was
+unanimous, that the prisoners should die.
+
+"An' let 'em die like dogs as they are," cried Hickman, indignantly
+raising his voice, and at the same time bringing his piece to the level,
+"Now, Jim Weatherford! look to yer sights!  Let 'em go thar, fellers!
+an' git yerselves out o' the way.  We'll gie 'em a chance for thar
+cussed lives.  They may take to yonner trees if they like, an' git
+'customed to it--for they'll be in a hotter place than that afore long.
+Let 'em go I let 'em go!  I say, or by the tarnal I'll fire into the
+middle o' ye!"
+
+The men who had hold of the prisoners, perceiving the menacing attitude
+of the hunter, and fearing that he might make good his words, suddenly
+dropped their charge, and ran back towards the group of jurors.
+
+The two wretches appeared bewildered.  Terror seemed to hold them
+speechless, and fast glued to the spot.  Neither made any effort to
+leave the ground.  Perhaps the complete impossibility of escape was
+apparent to them, and prostrated all power to make the attempt.  Of
+course, they could not have got away from the glade.  Their taking to
+the trees was only mockery on the part of the indignant hunter.  In ten
+seconds, they would have been roasted among the blazing branches.
+
+It was a moment of breathless suspense.  Only one voice was heard--that
+of Hickman:
+
+"Now Jim, you sight Spence--gie tother to me."  This was said in a
+hurried undertone, and the words had scarcely passed, when the two
+rifles cracked simultaneously.
+
+The execution was over.  The renegades had ceased to live.
+
+This speedy punishment of convicted rascals is a severe commentary upon
+the more refined proceedings of our judicial trials, in which every
+effort is made, and every argument strained to enable the culprit--known
+to be guilty--to escape the punishment due to his crimes, a result which
+is generally effected, either by some legal technicality or political
+machinery.
+
+
+
+CHAPTER EIGHTY NINE.
+
+AN ENEMY UNLOOKED FOR.
+
+As, upon the stage of a theatre, the farce follows the grand melodrama,
+this tragic scene was succeeded by an incident ludicrous to an extreme
+degree.  It elicited roars of laughter from the men, that, under the
+circumstances, sounded like the laughter of madmen; maniacs indeed might
+these men have been deemed--thus giving way to mirth, with a prospect
+before them so grim and gloomy--the prospect of almost certain death,
+either at the hands of our savage assailants, or from starvation.
+
+Of the former we had no present fear.  The flames that had driven us out
+of the timber, had equally forced them from their position; and we knew
+they were now far from us.  They could not be near.
+
+Now that the burnt branches had fallen from the pines, and the foliage
+was entirely consumed, the eye was enabled to penetrate the forest to a
+great distance.  On every side we commanded a _vista_ of at least a
+thousand yards, through the intervals between the red glowing trunks;
+and beyond this we could hear by the "swiz" of the flames, and the
+continual crackling of the boughs, that fresh trees were being embraced
+within the circle of conflagration, that was each moment extending its
+circumference.
+
+The sounds grew fainter apace, until they bore a close resemblance to
+the mutterings of distant thunder.  We had fancied that the fire was
+dying out; but the luminous ring around the horizon proved that the
+flames were still ascending.  It was only that the noise came from a
+greater distance, that we heard it less distinctly.
+
+Our human foes must have been still further away, they must have retired
+before the widening rim of the conflagration.  But they had calculated
+upon doing so before applying the torch.  In all likelihood, they had
+retreated to the savanna, to await the result.
+
+Their object in firing the forest was not so easily understood.  Perhaps
+they expected that the vast volume of flame would close over and consume
+us, or, more like, that we should be smothered under the dense clouds of
+smoke.  This might in reality have been our fate, but for the proximity
+of the pond.  My companions told me, that their sufferings from the
+smoke had been dreadful in the extreme--that they should have been
+stifled by it, had they not thrown themselves into the pond, and kept
+their faces close to the surface of the water, which was several feet
+below the level of the ground.  It had been to me an hour of
+unconsciousness.  My faithful black had carried me lifeless, as he
+supposed, to the water, and placed me among the rest.
+
+It was afterwards--when the smoke had partially cleared away--that the
+spies were brought to account.  Hickman and Weatherford, deeply
+indignant at the conduct of these monsters, would not hear of delay.
+They insisted upon immediate punishment; and the wretches were seized
+upon, dragged out of the pond, and put upon their trial.  It was at this
+crisis that my senses returned to me.
+
+As soon as the dread sentence had been carried into execution, the
+_ci-devant_ jurors came rushing back to the pond, and plunged their
+bodies into the water.  The heat was still intense, and painful of
+endurance.
+
+There were two only who appeared to disregard it, and still remained
+upon the bank.  These were the two hunters.
+
+Knives in hand, I saw them stooping over a dark object that lay near.
+It was the horse that Hickman had shot in the morning; and I now
+perceived the old hunter's motive, that had hitherto mystified me.  It
+was an act of that cunning foresight that characterised this man,
+apparently instinctive.
+
+They proceeded to skin the horse, and, in a few seconds, had pealed off
+a portion of the hide--sufficient for their purpose.  They then cut out
+several large pieces of the flesh, and laid them aside.  This done,
+Weatherford stepped off to the edge of the burning timber, and presently
+returned with an armful of half consumed fagots.  These were erected
+into a fire, near the edge of the pond; and the two, squatting down by
+its side, commenced broiling the pieces of horse-flesh upon sapling
+spits, and conversing as coolly and cheerily as if seated in the chimney
+corner of their own cabins.
+
+There were others as hungry as they, who took the hint, and proceeded to
+imitate their example.  The pangs of hunger were harder to bear than the
+hot atmosphere, and in a few minutes' time, a dozen men might have been
+observed, grouped like vultures around the dead horse hacking and hewing
+at the carcass.
+
+At this crisis occurred the incident which I have characterised as
+ludicrous.
+
+With the exception of the few engaged in their coarse _cuisine_, the
+rest of us remained in the water.  We were lying around the circular rim
+of the basin--our bodies parallel to one another, and our heads upon the
+bank.  We were not dreaming of being disturbed by an intruder of any
+kind--at least for a time.  We were no longer in fear of the fire, and
+our savage foemen were far off.
+
+All at once, however, an enemy was discovered in an unexpected quarter--
+right in the midst of us.
+
+Just in the centre of the pond, where the water was deepest, a monstrous
+form rose suddenly to the surface; at the same time that our ears were
+greeted with a loud bellowing, as if half a score of bulls were let
+loose into the glade.
+
+In an instant, the water was agitated and lashed into foam, and the
+spray fell in showers around our heads.
+
+Weird-like and sudden, as was the apparition, there was nothing
+mysterious about it.  The hideous form, and deep barytone were
+well-known to all.  It was simply an alligator.
+
+But for its enormous size the presence of the reptile would scarce have
+been regarded; but it was one of the largest of its kind--its long body
+almost equalling the diameter of the pond, with huge gaunt jaws that
+seemed capable of swallowing a man at a single "gulp."  Its roar, too,
+was enough to inspire even the boldest with terror.
+
+It produced this effect; and the wild frightened looks of those in the
+water--their confused plunging and splashing, as they scrambled to their
+feet and hastened to get out of it--their simultaneous rushing up the
+bank, and scattering off into the open ground--all contributed to form a
+spectacle ludicrous in the extreme.
+
+In less than ten seconds' time the great saurian had the pond to
+himself; where he continued to bellow, and lash the water in his rage.
+
+He was not permitted to exult long in his triumph.  The hunters, with
+several others, seized their rifles, and ran forwards to the edge of the
+pond, when a volley from a dozen guns terminated the monster's
+existence.
+
+Those who had been "ashore," were already convulsed with laughter at the
+scared fugitives; but the latter, having recovered from their momentary
+affright, now joined in the laugh, till the woods rang with a chorus of
+wild cachinnations.
+
+Could the Indians have heard us at that moment, they must have fancied
+as mad, or more likely dead, and that our voices were those of their own
+fiends, headed by Wykome himself--rejoicing over the holocaust of their
+pale-faced foes.
+
+
+
+CHAPTER NINETY.
+
+A CONFLICT IN DARKNESS.
+
+The forest continued to burn throughout the night, the following day,
+and the night after.  Even on the second day, most of the trees were
+still on fire.
+
+They no longer blazed, for the air was perfectly still, and there was no
+wind to fan the fire into flame.  It was seen in red patches against the
+trunks, smouldering and gradually becoming less, as its strength
+spontaneously died out.
+
+From many of the trees it had disappeared altogether, and these no
+longer bore any resemblance to trees, but looked like huge,
+sharp-pointed stakes, charred and black, as though profusely coated with
+coal-tar.
+
+Though there were portions of the forest that might now have been
+traversed, there were other places where the fire still burned fiercely
+enough to oppose our progress.  We were still besieged by the igneous
+element--as completely confined within the circumscribed boundaries of
+the glade, as if encompassed by a hostile army of twenty times our
+number--indeed, more so.  No rescue could possibly reach us.  Even our
+enemies, so far as _our_ safety was concerned, could not have "raised
+the siege."
+
+So far the old hunter's providence had stood us in good stead.  But for
+the horse some of us must have succumbed to hunger; or, at all events,
+suffered its extreme.  We had been now four days without food--except
+what the handful of pine cones and the horse-flesh afforded us; and
+still the fiery forest hemmed us in.  There was no alternative but to
+stay where we were until, as Hickman phrased it, "the woods should git
+_cool_."
+
+We were cheered with the hope that another day would effect this
+purpose, and we might travel with safety.
+
+The prospect before us was gloomy as that around us.  As our dread of
+the fire declined, that of our human foes increased in an inverse
+proportion.  We had but little hope of getting off without an encounter.
+They could traverse the woods as soon as we, and were certain to be on
+the look-out.  With them the account was still to be settled.  The
+gauntlet was yet to be run.
+
+But we had grown fierce and less fearful.  The greatest coward of our
+party had become brave, and no one voted for either skulking or hanging
+back.  Stand or fall, we had resolved upon keeping together, and cutting
+our way through the hostile lines, or dying in the attempt.  It was but
+the old programme, with a slight change in the _mise-en-scene_.
+
+We waited only for another night to carry our plans into execution.  The
+woods would scarce be as "cool" as we might have desired, but hunger was
+again hurrying us.  The horse--a small one--had disappeared.  Fifty
+starved stomachs are hard to satisfy.  The bones lay around clean
+picked--those that contained marrow, broken into fragments and emptied
+of their contents; even the hideous saurian was a skeleton!
+
+A more disgusting spectacle was presented by the bodies of the two
+criminals.  The heat had swollen them to enormous proportions, and
+decomposition had already commenced.  The air was loaded with that
+horrid effluvia peculiar to the dead body of a human being.
+
+Our comrades who fell in the fight had been buried, and there was some
+talk of performing the like office for the others.  No one objected; but
+none volunteered to take the trouble.  In such cases men are overpowered
+by an extreme apathy; and this was chiefly the reason why the bodies of
+these wretches were suffered to remain without interment.
+
+With eyes bent anxiously towards the west, we awaited the going down of
+the sun.  So long as his bright orb was above the horizon, we could only
+guess at the condition of the fire.  The darkness would enable us to
+distinguish that part of the forest that was still burning, and point
+out the direction we should take.  The fire itself would guide us to the
+shunning of it.
+
+Twilight found us on the tiptoe of expectation, and not without hope.
+There was but little redness among the scathed pines--the smoke appeared
+slighter than we had yet observed it.  Some believed that the fires were
+nearly out--all thought the time had arrived when we could pass through
+them.
+
+An unexpected circumstance put this point beyond conjecture.  While we
+stood waiting, the rain began to fall--at first in big solitary drops,
+but in a few moments it came pouring down as if all heaven's fountains
+had been opened together.
+
+We hailed the phenomenon with joy.  It appeared an omen in our favour.
+We could hardly restrain ourselves from setting forth at once; but the
+more cautious counselled the rest to patience, and we stood awaiting the
+deeper darkness.
+
+The rain continued to pour--its clouds hastening the night.  As it
+darkened, scarce a spark appeared among the trees.
+
+"It is dark enough," urged the impatient.  The others yielded, and we
+started forth into the bosom of the ruined forest.  We moved silently
+along amid the black, calcined trunks.  Each grasped his gun tight and
+ready for use.  Mine was held only in one hand--the other rested in a
+sling.
+
+In this plight I was not alone.  Half a dozen of my comrades had been
+also "winged;" and together we kept in the rear.  The better men marched
+in front, Hickman and Weatherford acting as guides.
+
+The rain beat down upon us.  There was no longer a foliage to intercept
+it.  As we walked under the burnt branches, the black char was driven
+against our faces, and as quickly washed off again.  Most of the men
+were bareheaded--their caps were over the locks of their guns to keep
+them dry--some sheltered their priming with the skirts of their coats.
+
+In this manner we had advanced nearly half a mile, we knew not in what
+direction; no guide could have found path in such a forest.  We only
+endeavoured to keep straight forward, with the view of getting _beyond_
+our enemies.  So long unmolested, we had begun to hope that we might.
+
+Alas! it was a momentary gleam.  We were underrating the cunning of our
+red foes.  They had watched us all the time--had dogged our steps, and
+at some distance off, were marching on both sides of us, in two parallel
+lines.  While dreaming of safety we were actually in their midst!
+
+The flashes of a hundred guns through the misty rain--the whistling of
+as many bullets--were the first intimation we had of their presence.
+
+Several fell under the volley.  Some returned the fire--a few thought
+only of making their escape.
+
+Uttering their shrill cries, the savages closed in upon us.  In the
+darkness they appeared to outnumber the trees.
+
+Save the occasional report of a pistol, no other shot was heard--no one
+thought of reloading.  The foe was upon us before there was time to draw
+a ramrod.  The knife and hatchet were to be the arbiters of the fight.
+
+The struggle was sanguinary as it was short.  Many of our brave fellows
+met their death; but each killed his foeman--some two or three of them--
+before he fell.
+
+We were soon vanquished.  The enemy was five to one--how could it be
+otherwise?  They were fresh and strong; we weak with hunger--almost
+emaciated--many of us wounded--how could it be otherwise?
+
+I saw but little of the conflict--perhaps no one saw more; it was a
+straggle amidst opaque darkness.
+
+With my one hand--and that the left--I was almost helpless.  I fired my
+rifle at random, and had contrived to draw a pistol; but the blow of a
+tomahawk hindered me from using it, at the same time felling me
+senseless to the earth.
+
+I was only stunned, and when my senses returned to me, I saw that the
+conflict was over.  Dark as it was, I could perceive a number of black
+objects lying near me upon the ground.  They were the bodies of the
+slain.
+
+Some were those of my late comrades--others their foes--in many
+instances locked in each other's embrace!
+
+The savages were stooping over, as if separating them.  On the former
+they were executing their last hideous rite of vengeance--they were
+scalping them.
+
+A group was nearer; the individuals composing it were standing erect.
+One in their midst appeared to issue commands.  Even in the grey light I
+could distinguish three waving plumes.  Again Osceola!
+
+I was not free, or at that moment I should have rushed forwards and
+grappled him, vain though the vengeful effort might have been.  But I
+was not free.
+
+Two savages knelt over me, as if guarding me against such an attempt.  I
+perceived my black follower near at hand--still alive, and similarly
+cared for.  Why had they not killed us?
+
+At this moment a man was seen approaching.  It was not he with the
+ostrich-plumes, though the latter appeared to have sent him.
+
+As he drew near, I perceived that he carried a pistol.  My hour was
+come.  The man stooped over me, and placed the weapon close to my ear.
+To my astonishment he fired it into the air!
+
+I thought he had missed me, and would try again.  But this was not his
+purpose.  He only wanted a light.
+
+While the powder was ablaze, I caught a glance of the countenance.  It
+was an Indian's, but I thought I had seen it before; and from some
+expression the man made use of, he appeared to know me.
+
+He passed quickly from me, and proceeded to the spot where Jake was held
+captive.  The pistol must have had two barrels, for I saw him fire it
+again, stooping in the same manner over the prostrate form of the black.
+He then rose and called out:
+
+"It is they--still alive."
+
+This information appeared meant for him of the black plumes, for the
+moment it was given he uttered some exclamation I did not comprehend,
+and then walked away.
+
+His voice produced a singular impression upon me.  I fancied it did not
+sound like Osceola's!
+
+We were kept upon the ground only for a few minutes longer, and then a
+number of horses were brought up.  Upon two of these Jake and I were
+mounted, and fast tied to the saddles.  A signal was then given, and,
+with an Indian riding on each side of us, we were carried off through
+the woods.
+
+
+
+CHAPTER NINETY ONE.
+
+THE BLACK PLUMES.
+
+We journeyed throughout the whole night.  The burnt woods were left
+behind, and having crossed a savanna, we rode for several hours through
+a forest of giant oaks, palms, and magnolias.  I knew this by the
+fragrance of the magnolia blossoms, that, after the fetid atmosphere
+that we had been breathing, smelt sweet and refreshing.  Just as day was
+breaking, we arrived at an opening in the woods, where our captors
+halted.
+
+The opening was of small extent--a few acres only--bounded on all sides
+by a thick forest of palms, magnolias, and live-oaks.  Their foliage
+drooped to the ground, so that the glade appeared encompassed by a vast
+wall of green, through which no outlet was discernible.
+
+Through the grey light, I perceived the outlines of an encampment.
+There were two or three tents with horses picketed around them, and
+human forms, some of them upright and moving about, others recumbent
+upon the grass, singly, or in clusters, as if sleeping together for
+mutual warmth.  A large fire was burning in the midst, and around it
+were men and women, seated and standing.
+
+Within the limits of this camp we had been carried, but no time was left
+us for observation.  The moment we halted, we were dragged roughly from
+our horses, and flung prostrate upon the grass.  We were next turned
+upon our backs.  Thongs were tied around our waists and ancles, our arms
+and limbs drawn out to their full extent, and we were staked firmly to
+the ground, like hides spread out for drying.  Of course, in this
+attitude, we could see no more of the camp--nor the trees--nor the earth
+itself--only the blue heavens above us.
+
+Under any circumstances, the position would have been painful, but my
+wounded arm rendered it excruciating.
+
+Our arrival had set the camp in motion.  Men came out to meet us, and
+women stooped over us, as we lay on our backs.  There were Indian squaws
+among them, but, to my surprise, I noticed that most of them were of
+African race--mulattoes, samboes, and negresses!
+
+For some time they stood over, jeering and taunting us.  They even
+proceeded to inflict torture--they spit on us, pulled out handfuls of
+our hair by the roots, and stuck sharp thorns into our skin, all the
+while yelling with a fiendish delight, and jabbering an unintelligible
+patois, that appeared a mixture of Spanish and Yamassee.
+
+My fellow-captive fared as badly as myself.  The homogenous colour of
+his skin elicited no sympathy from these female fiends.  Black and white
+were alike the victims of their hellish spite.
+
+Part of their jargon I was able to comprehend, aided by a slight
+acquaintance with the Spanish tongue, I made out what was intended to be
+done with us--we were to be _tortured_.
+
+We had been brought to the camp to be _tortured_.  We were to be the
+victims of a grand spectacle, and these infernal hags were exulting in
+the prospect of the sport our sufferings should afford them.  For this
+only had, we been _captured_, instead of being _killed_.
+
+Into whose hound hands had we fallen?  Were they human beings?  Were
+they Indians?  Could they be Seminoles, whose behaviour to their
+captives hitherto, had repelled every insinuation of torture?
+
+A shout arose as if in answer to my questions.  The voices of all around
+were mingled in the cry, but the words were the same:
+
+"_Mulato-mico! mulato-mico! viva, mulato-mico_!"
+
+The trampling of many hoofs announced the arrival of a band.  They were
+the warriors who had been engaged in the fight--who had conquered and
+made us captive.  Only half a dozen guards had been with us on the
+night-march, and had reached the camp at daybreak.  The new comers were
+the main body, who had stayed upon the field to complete the
+despoliation of their fallen foes.  I could not see them, though they
+were near, for I heard their horses trampling around.
+
+I lay listening to that significant shout:
+
+"_Mulato-mico! viva, mulato-mico_!"
+
+To me the words were full of terrible import.  The phrase "Mulato-mico"
+was not new to me, and I heard it with a feeling of dread.  But it was
+scarce possible to increase apprehensions already excited to the full.
+A hard fate was before me.  The presence of the fiend himself could not
+make it more certain.
+
+My fellow-victim shared my thoughts.  We were near, and could converse.
+On comparing our conjectures, we found that they coincided.
+
+But the point was soon settled beyond conjecture.  A harsh voice sounded
+in our ears, issuing an abrupt order, that scattered the women away; a
+heavy footstep was heard behind--the speaker was approaching.
+
+In another instant his shadow fell upon my face; and the man himself
+stood within the limited circle of my vision.
+
+Despite the pigment that disguised his natural complexion--despite the
+beaded shirt, the sash, the embroidered leggins--despite the _three
+black plumes_, that waved over his brow, I easily identified the man.
+He was no Indian, but a mulatto--"yellow Jake" himself.
+
+
+
+CHAPTER NINETY TWO.
+
+BURIED ALIVE.
+
+I had expected the man.  The cry "Mulato-mico," and afterwards his
+voice--still well remembered--had warned me of his coming.  I expected
+to gaze upon him with dread; strange it may seem, but such was not the
+case.  On the contrary, I beheld him, with a feeling akin to joy.  Joy
+at the sight of _those three blade plumes_ that nodded above his
+scowling temples.
+
+For a moment I marked not his angry frowns, nor the wicked triumph that
+sparkled in his eye.  The ostrich feathers were alone the objects of my
+regard--the cynosure of my thoughts.  Their presence upon the crest of
+the "mulatto king" elucidated a world of mystery--foul suspicion was
+plucked from out my bosom--the preserver of my life--the hero of my
+heart's admiration was still true--Osceola was true!
+
+In the momentary exultation of this thought, I almost forgot the gloom
+of my situation; but soon the voice of the mulatto once more roused me
+to a consciousness of its peril.
+
+"_Carajo_!" cried he, in a tone of malignant triumph.  "_Al fin
+venganza_!  (At last vengeance!)--Both, too, white and black--master and
+slave--my young tyrant and my rival! ha! ha! ha!
+
+"Me tie to tree," continued he, after a burst of hoarse laughter.  "Me
+burn, eh? burn 'live?  Your turn come now--trees plenty here; but no, me
+teach you better plan.  _Corrambo, si_! far better plan.  Tie to tree,
+captive sometime 'scape, ha! ha! ha!  Before burn, me show you sight.
+Ho, there!" he shouted, motioning to some of the bystanders to come
+near.  "Untie hands--raise 'em up--both faces turn to camp--_basta_!
+_basta_! that do.  Now white rascal--Black rascal look!--what see
+yonder?"
+
+As he issued these orders, several of his creatures pulled up the stakes
+that had picketed down our arms, and raised us into a sitting posture,
+our bodies slewed round, till our faces bore full upon the camp.  It was
+broad daylight--the sun shining brightly in the heavens.  Under such a
+light every object in the camp was distinctly visible--the tents--the
+horses--the motley crowd of human occupants.  We regarded not these.  On
+two forms alone our eyes rested--they were my sister and Viola.
+
+They were close together, as I had seen them once before--Viola seated
+with her head drooping, while that of Virginia rested in her lap.  The
+hair of both was hanging in dishevelled masses--the black tresses of the
+maid mingling with the golden locks of her mistress.  They were
+surrounded by guards, and appeared unconscious of our presence.  But one
+was dispatched to warn them.
+
+As the messenger reached them, we saw them both start, and look
+inquiringly abroad.  In another instant their eyes were upon us.  A
+thrilling scream announced that we were recognised.  They cried out
+together.  I heard my sister's voice pronouncing my name.  I called to
+her in return.  I saw her spring to her feet, toss her arms wildly above
+her head, and attempt to rush towards me.  I saw the guards taking hold
+of her, and rudely dragging her back.  Oh, it was a painful sight! death
+itself could not have been so hard to endure.  But we were allowed to
+look upon them no longer.  Suddenly jerked upon our backs, our wrists
+were once more staked down, and we lay in our former recumbent
+attitudes.
+
+Painful as were our reflections, we were not allowed to indulge in them
+alone.  The monster continued to stand over us, taunting us with
+spiteful words, and, worse than all, gross allusions to my sister and
+Viola.  Oh, it was horrible to bear!  Molten lead poured into our ears
+could scarce have tortured us more.
+
+It was almost a relief when he desisted from speech, and we saw him
+commence making preparations for our torture.  We knew that the hour was
+nigh; for he had himself said so, as he issued the orders to his
+fellows.  Some horrible mode of death had been promised, but what it was
+we were yet in ignorance.
+
+Not long did we remain so.  Several men were seen approaching the spot,
+with spades and pickaxes in their hands.  They were negroes--old
+field-hands--and knew how to use such implements.
+
+They stopped near us, and commenced digging the ground.  O God! were we
+to be buried alive?
+
+This was the conjecture that first suggested itself.  If true, it was
+terrible enough; but it was not true.  We were designed to undergo a
+still more horrible fate!
+
+Silently, and with the solemn air of grave-diggers, the men worked on.
+The mulatto stood over directing them.  He was in high glee,
+occasionally calling to us in mockery, and boasting how skillfully he
+should perform the office of executioner.
+
+The women and savage warriors clustered around, laughing at his sallies,
+or contributing their quota of grotesque wit, at which they uttered
+yells of demoniac laughter.  We might easily have fancied ourselves in
+the infernal regions, in the middle of a crowd of jibbering fiends, who
+stood grinning down upon us, as if they drew delight from our anguish.
+
+We noticed that few of the men were Seminoles.  Indians there were; but
+these were of dark complexion, nearly black.  They were of the tribe of
+Yamassees--a race conquered by the Seminoles, and partially engrafted
+into their nation.  But most of those we saw were black negroes,
+samboes, and mulattoes, descendants of Spanish maroons, or "runaways"
+from the American plantations.  There were many of the latter; for I
+could hear English spoken among them.  No doubt there were some of my
+own slaves mixing with the motley crew, though none of them came near,
+and I could only note the faces of those who stood over me.
+
+In about half an hour the diggers had finished their work.  Our stakes
+were drawn, and we were dragged forwards to the spot where they had been
+engaged.
+
+As soon as I was raised up, I bent my eyes upon the camp; but my sister
+was no longer there.  Viola, too, was gone.  They had been taken either
+inside the tents or back among the bushes.
+
+I was glad they were not there: they would be spared this pang of a
+horrid spectacle; though it was not likely that from any such motive the
+monster had removed them.
+
+Two dark holes yawned before us, deeply dug into the earth.  They were
+not graves; or if so, it was not intended our bodies should be placed
+vertically in them.
+
+If their shape was peculiar, so too was the purpose for which they were
+made.
+
+We were soon to become acquainted with it.
+
+We were conduced to the edge of the cavities, seized by the shoulders,
+and each of us plunged into the one that was nearest.  They proved just
+deep enough to bring our throats on a level with the surface, while
+standing erect.  The loose earth was then shovelled in, and kneaded
+firmly around us.  More was added, until our shoulders were covered up,
+and only our heads appeared above ground.
+
+The position was ludicrous enough; and we might have laughed ourselves,
+but that we were standing in our graves.  From the fiendish spectators
+it drew yells of laughter.  What next?  Was this to be the end of their
+proceedings?  Were we to be thus left to perish, miserably, and by
+inches?  Hunger and thirst would in time terminate our existence; but,
+oh, the long hours of anguish that must be endured!  Whole days of
+misery we must suffer before the spark of life should forsake us--whole
+days of horror and--Ha! they had not yet done with us!
+
+No: a death like that we had been fancying appeared too easy to the
+monster who directed them.  The resources of his hatred were far from
+being exhausted: he had still other, and far keener, torture in store
+for us.
+
+"Carajo! good!" cried he, as he stood admiring his contrivance; "better
+than tie to tree--good fix, eh!  No fear 'scape--_Carrai_, no.  _Bring
+fire_!"
+
+Bring fire!  It was to be fire, then, the extreme instrument of torture.
+We heard the word--that word of fearful sound.  We were to die by fire!
+
+Our terror had arrived at its height.  It rose no higher when we saw
+fagots carried up to the spot, and built in a ring around our heads.  It
+rose no higher when we saw the torch applied, and the dry wood catching
+the flame.  It rose no higher as the blaze grew red, and redder, and we
+felt its angry glow upon our skulls, soon to be calcined like the sticks
+themselves.
+
+No; we could suffer no more.  Our agony had reached the acme of
+endurance, and we longed for death to relieve us.  If another pang had
+been possible, there was cause for it in those screams now proceeding
+from the opposite edge of the camp.  Even in that dread hour, we could
+recognise the voices of my sister and Viola.  The unmerciful monster had
+brought them out again to witness the execution.  We saw them not; but
+their wild plaints proved that they were spectators of the horrid scene.
+
+Hotter and hotter grew the fire, and nearer licked the flames.  I heard
+my hair crisping and singing at the fiery contact.
+
+Objects swam dizzily before my eyes.  The trees tottered and reeled, the
+earth whirled round.  My skull ached as if it would soon split; my brain
+was drying up; my senses were fast forsaking me.
+
+
+
+CHAPTER NINETY THREE.
+
+DEVILS OR ANGELS.
+
+Was I enduring the tortures of the future world?  Were these its fiends
+that grinned and jibbered around me?  See! they scatter and fall back!
+Some one approaches who can command them.  Pluto himself?  No; it is a
+woman--a woman here?--is it Proserpine?  If a woman, surely _she_ will
+have mercy upon me!  Vain hope!  There is no mercy in hell.  Oh, my
+brain!  Horror! horror!
+
+There _are_ women--these are women--they look not fiends!  No, they are
+angels!  Would they were angels of mercy!
+
+But they are.  See! one interferes with the fire.  With her foot she
+dashes it back, scattering the fagots in furious haste.  Who is she?  If
+I were alive, I would call her Haj-Ewa; but dead, it must be her spirit
+below.
+
+But there is another.  Ha! another, younger and fairer.  If they be
+angels, this must be the loveliest in heaven.  It is the spirit of
+Maumee!
+
+How comes she in this horrid place among fiends?  It is not the abode
+for her.  She was guilty of do crime that should send her here.
+
+Where am I?  Have I been dreaming?  I was on fire just now--only my
+brain it was that was burning; my body was cold enough--where am I?
+
+Who are you, that stand over me, pouring coolness upon my head?  Are you
+not Haj-Ewa, the mad queen?
+
+Whose soft fingers are those I feel playing upon my temples?  Oh--the
+exquisite pleasure imparted by their touch!  Bend down, that I may look
+upon your face, and thank you--"Maumee!  Maumee!"
+
+Then I am not dead.  I live.  I am saved!
+
+It was Haj-Ewa, and not her spirit.  It was Maumee herself--whose
+beautiful, brilliant eyes were looking into mine.  No wonder I had
+believed it to be an angel.
+
+"Carajo!" sounded a voice, that appeared hoarse with rage.  "Remove
+those women!--pile back the fires.  Away, mad queen!--go back to your
+tribe! these my captives--your chief no claim--_Carrambo_!--you not
+interfere; pile back the fires!"
+
+"Yamassees!" cried Haj-Ewa, advancing towards the Indians; "Obey him
+not! or dread the wrath of Wykome!  His spirit will be angry, and follow
+you in vengeance.  Wherever you go the _chitta mico_ will be on your
+path, and its rattle in your ears.  _Hulwak_!  It will bite your heel as
+you wander in the woods.  Speak I not truth, thou king of the Serpents?"
+
+As she uttered the interrogatory, she raised the rattlesnake in her
+hands, holding it so that it might be distinctly seen by those whom she
+addressed.  The reptile hissed, accompanying the sibilation with a sharp
+"skirr" of its tail.  Who could doubt that it was an answer in the
+affirmative?
+
+Not the Yamassees, who stood awe-bound and trembling in the presence of
+the mighty sorceress.
+
+"And you, black runaways and renegades," she continued to the negro
+allies--"you who have no god, and fear not Wykome--dare to rebuild the
+fires--dare to lift one fagot--and you shall take the place of your
+captives.  A greater than yon yellow monster, your chief, will soon be
+on the ground.  _Hinklas_!  Ho! yonder the Rising Sun! he comes--he
+comes!"
+
+As she ceased speaking, the hoof-strokes of a horse echoed through the
+glade, and a hundred voices simultaneously raised the shout: "Osceola!
+Osceola!"  That cry was grateful to my ears.  Though already rescued, I
+had begun to fear it might prove only a short relief.  Our delivery from
+death was still far from certain--our advocates were but weak women.
+The mulatto king, in the midst of his fierce satellites, would scarce
+have yielded to their demands.  Alike disregarded would have been their
+entreaties.  The fire would have been re-kindled, and the execution
+carried out to its end.
+
+In all probability this would have been the event, had not Osceola in
+good time arrived upon the ground.
+
+His appearance, and the sound of his voice, at once reassured me.  Under
+his protection we had nothing more to fear, and a soft voice whispered
+in my ear that he came as our _deliverer_.
+
+His errand was soon made manifest.  Drawing bridle, he halted near the
+middle of the camp, directly in front of us.  I saw him dismount from
+his fine black horse--like himself, splendidly caparisoned--and handing
+the reins to a bystander, he came walking towards us.  His port was
+superb--his costume brilliantly picturesque; and once more, I beheld
+those three ostrich-plumes--the real ones; that had played such a part
+in my suspicious fancy.
+
+When near the spot, he stopped, and gazed inquiringly towards us.  He
+might have smiled at our absurd situation, but his countenance betrayed
+no signs of levity.  On the contrary, it was serious and sympathetic.  I
+fancied it was sad.
+
+For some moments he stood in a fixed attitude, without saying a word.
+His eyes wandered from one to the other--my fellow-victim and myself; as
+if endeavouring to distinguish us.  No easy task.  Smoke, sweat and
+ashes, must have rendered us extremely alike, and both difficult of
+identification.
+
+At this moment, Maumee glided up to him, whispered a word in his ear,
+and returning again, knelt over me, and chafed my temples with her soft
+hands.
+
+With the exception of the young chief himself, no one heard what his
+sister had said; but upon _him_ her words appeared to produce an
+instantaneous effect.  A change passed over his countenance.  The look
+of sadness gave place to one of furious wrath; and turning suddenly to
+the yellow king, he hissed out the word "Fiend!"
+
+For some seconds he spoke no more, but stood gazing upon the mulatto, as
+though he would annihilate him by his look.  The latter quailed under
+the conquering glance, and trembled like a leaf, but made no answer.
+
+"Fiend and villain!" continued Osceola, without changing either tone or
+attitude.  "Is this the way you have carried out my orders?  Are these
+the captives I commanded you to take?  Vile runaway of a slave! who
+authorised you to inflict the fiery torture?  Who taught you?  Not the
+Seminoles, whose name you have adopted and disgraced.  By the spirit of
+Wykome! but that I have sworn never to torture a foe, I should place you
+where these now stand, and burn your body to ashes!  From my sight--
+begone!  No--stay where you are.  On second thoughts, I may need you."
+And with this odd ending to his speech, the young chief turned upon his
+heel, and came walking towards us.
+
+The mulatto did not vouchsafe a reply, though his looks were full of
+vengeance.  Once, during the flagellation, I thought I noticed him turn
+his eyes towards his ferocious followers, as if to invoke their
+interference.
+
+But these knew that Osceola was not alone.  As he came up, the trampling
+of a large troop had been heard, and it was evident that his warriors
+were in the woods not far distant.  A single _yo-ho-ehee_, in the
+well-known voice of their chief, would bring them upon the ground before
+its echoes had died.
+
+The yellow king seemed himself to be aware of their proximity.  Hence it
+was that he replied not.  A word at that minute might have proved his
+last; and with a sulky frown upon his face, he remained silent.
+
+"Release them!" said Osceola, addressing the _ci-devant_ diggers; "and
+be careful how you handle your spades."
+
+"Randolph!" he continued, bending over me; "I fear I have scarce been in
+time.  I was for off when I heard of this, and have ridden hard.  You
+have been wounded--are you ill hurt?"
+
+I attempted to express my gratitude, and assure him I was not much
+injured; but my voice was so freak and hoarse as to be hardly
+intelligible.  It grew stronger, however, as those fair fingers
+administered the refreshing draught, and we were soon conversing freely.
+
+Both of us were quickly "unearthed," and with free limbs stood once more
+upon the open ground.  My first thoughts were to rush towards my sister,
+when, to my surprise, I was restrained by the chief.
+
+"Patience," said he; "not yet, not yet--Maumee will go and assure her of
+your safety.  See! she knows it already!  Go, Maumee!  Tell Miss
+Randolph, her brother is safe! and will come presently.  But she must
+remain where she is, only for a little while.  Go, sister, and cheer
+her."
+
+Turning to me, he added in a whisper; "She has been placed there for a
+purpose--you shall see.  Come with me--I shall show you a spectacle that
+may astonish you--there is not a moment to be lost; I hear the signal
+from my spies.  A minute more, and we are too late--come! come!"
+
+Without opposing a word, I hastened after the chief, who walked rapidly
+towards the nearest edge of the woods.
+
+He entered the timber, but went no farther.  When fairly under cover of
+the thick foliage, he stopped, turned round, and stood facing towards
+the camp.
+
+Obedient to a sign, I imitated his example.
+
+
+
+CHAPTER NINETY FOUR.
+
+THE END OF ARENS RINGGOLD.
+
+I had not the slightest idea of the chief's intention, or what was the
+nature of the spectacle I had been promised.  Somewhat impatient, I
+questioned him.
+
+"A new way of winning a mistress," said he, with a smile.
+
+"But who is the lover?--who to be the mistress?"  I inquired.
+
+"Patience, Randolph, and you shall see.  Oh! it is a rare experiment--a
+most cunning plot, and would be laughable were it not for the tragedy
+mixed up with it.  You shall see.  But for a faithful friend, I should
+not have known of it, and would not have been here to witness it.  For
+my presence and your life, as it now appears--more still, perhaps, the
+safety of your sister--you are indebted to Haj-Ewa."
+
+"Noble woman!"
+
+"Hist! they are near--I hear the tread of hoofs.  One--two--three.  It
+must be they--yes--yonder.  See!"
+
+I looked in the direction pointed out, a small party of horsemen--half a
+dozen in all--was seen emerging from the timber, and riding with a brush
+into the open ground.  As soon as they were fairly uncovered, they
+spurred their horses to a gallop, and with loud yells dashed rapidly
+into the midst of the camp.  On reaching this point they fired their
+pieces--apparently into the air--and then continuing their shouts, rode
+on.
+
+I saw that they were _white_ men, and this surprised me, but what
+astonished me still more, was that I _knew_ them.  At least I knew their
+faces, and recognised the men as some of the most worthless scamps of
+our own settlement.
+
+A third surprise awaited me, on looking more narrowly at their leader.
+Him I knew well.  Again it was Arens Ringgold.
+
+I had not time to recover from the third surprise, when still a fourth
+was before me.  The men of the camp--both negroes and Yamassees--
+appeared terrified at this puny attack, and scattering off, hid
+themselves in the bushes.  They yelled loudly enough, and some fired
+their guns as they retreated; but, like the attacking party, their shots
+appeared directed into the air!  Mystery of mysteries! what could it
+mean?
+
+I was about to inquire once more, when I observed that my companion was
+occupied with his own affairs, and did not desire to be disturbed.  I
+saw that he was looking to his rifle, as if examining the sights.
+
+Glancing back into the glade, I saw that Ringgold had advanced close to
+where my sister was seated, and was just halting in front of the group.
+I heard him address her by name, and pronounce some phrase of
+congratulation.  He appeared about to dismount with the design of
+approaching her on foot, while his men, still upon horseback, were
+galloping through the camp, huzzaing fiercely and firing pistols through
+the air.
+
+"His hour is come," muttered Osceola, as he glided past me; "a fate
+deserved and long delayed--it is come at last," and with these words, he
+stepped forth into the open ground.
+
+I saw him raise his piece to the level, its muzzle pointed towards
+Ringgold, and the instant after, the report rang over the camp.
+
+The shrill "_Car-ha-queene_" pealed from his lips, as the planter's
+horse sprang forwards with an empty saddle, and the rider himself was
+seen struggling upon the grass.
+
+The others uttered a terrific cry, and with fear and astonishment
+depicted in their looks, galloped back into the bushes--without waiting
+to exchange a word with their wounded leader, or a shot with the man who
+had wounded him.
+
+"My aim has not been true," said Osceola, with singular coolness; "he
+still lives.  I have received much wrong from him and his--ay, very much
+wrong--or I might spare his wretched life.  But no--my vow must be
+kept--he must die!"
+
+As he said this he, rushed after Ringgold, who had regained his feet,
+and was making towards the bushes, as with a hope of escape.
+
+A wild scream came from the terrified wretch, as he saw the avenger at
+his heels.  It was the last time his voice was heard.
+
+In a few bounds Osceola was by his side--the long blade glittered for an
+instant in the air--and the downward blow was given, so rapidly, that
+the stroke could scarce be perceived.
+
+The blow was instantaneously fatal.  The knees of the wounded man
+suddenly bent beneath him, and he sank lifeless on the spot where he had
+been struck--his body after death remaining doubled up as it had fallen.
+
+"The fourth and last of my enemies," said Osceola, as he returned to
+where I stood; "the last of those who deserved my vengeance, and against
+whom I had vowed it."
+
+"Scott?"  I inquired.
+
+"He was the third--he was killed yesterday, and by this hand.  Hitherto
+I have fought for revenge--I have had it--I have slain many of your
+people--I have had full satisfaction, and henceforth--"
+
+The speaker made a long pause.
+
+"Henceforth?"  I mechanically inquired.
+
+"I care but little how soon they kill me."
+
+As Osceola uttered these strange words, he sank down upon a prostrate
+trunk, covering his face with his hands.  I saw that he did not expect a
+reply.
+
+There was a sadness in his tone, as though some deep sorrow lay upon his
+heart, that could neither be controlled nor comforted.  I had noticed it
+before; and thinking he would rather be left to himself, I walked
+silently away.
+
+A few moments after I held my dear sister in my arms, while Jake was
+comforting Viola in his black embraces.
+
+His old rival was no longer near.  During the sham attack he had
+imitated his followers, and disappeared from the field; but though most
+of the latter soon returned, the yellow king, when sought for, was not
+to be found in the camp.  His absence roused the suspicions of Osceola,
+who was now once more in action.  By a signal his warriors were
+summoned; and came galloping up.  Several were instantly dispatched in
+search of the missing chief, but after a while these came back without
+having found any traces of him.  One only seemed to have discovered a
+clue to his disappearance.  The followers of Ringgold consisted of only
+five men.
+
+The Indian had gone for some distance on the path by which they had
+retreated.  Instead of five, there were six sets of horse tracks upon
+the trail.
+
+The report appeared to produce an unpleasant impression upon the mind of
+Osceola.  Fresh scouts were sent forth, with orders to bring back the
+mulatto, _living_ or _dead_.
+
+The stern command proved that there were strong doubts about the fealty
+of the Yellow Chief, and the warriors of Osceola appeared to share the
+suspicions of their leader.
+
+The patriot party had suffered from defections of late.  Some of the
+smaller clans, wearied of fighting, and wasted by a long season of
+famine, had followed the example of the tribe Omatla, and delivered
+themselves up at the forts.  Though in the battles hitherto fought, the
+Indians had generally been successful, they knew that their white foemen
+far outnumbered them, and that in the end the latter must triumph.  The
+spirit of revenge, for wrongs long endured, had stimulated them at the
+first; but they had obtained full measure of vengeance, and were
+content.  Love of country--attachment to their old homes--mere
+patriotism was now balanced against the dread of almost complete
+annihilation.  The latter weighed heaviest in the scale.
+
+The war spirit was no longer in the ascendant.  Perhaps at this time had
+overtures of peace been made, the Indians would have laid down their
+arms, and consented to the removal.  Even Osceola could scarce have
+prevented their acceptance of the conditions, and it was doubted whether
+he would have made the attempt.
+
+Gifted with genius, with full knowledge of the strength and character of
+his enemies, he must have foreseen the disasters that were yet to befall
+his followers and his nation.  It could not be otherwise.
+
+Was it a gloomy forecast of the future that imparted to him that
+melancholy air, now observable both in his words and acts?  Was it this,
+or was there a still deeper sorrow--the anguish of a hopeless passion--
+the drear heart-longing for a love he might never obtain?
+
+To me it was a moment of strong emotions, as the young chief approached
+the spot where my sister was seated.  Even then was I the victim of
+unhappy suspicions, and with eager scrutiny I scanned the countenances
+of both.
+
+Surely I was wrong.  On neither could I detect a trace of aught that
+should give me uneasiness.  The bearing of the chief was simply gallant
+and respectful.  The looks of my sister were but the expressions of a
+fervent gratitude.  Osceola spoke first.
+
+"I have to ask your forgiveness, Miss Randolph, for the scene you have
+been forced to witness; but I could not permit this man to escape.
+Lady, he was your greatest enemy, as he has been ours.  Through the
+cooperation of the mulatto, he had planned this ingenious deception,
+with the design of inducing you to become his wife; but failing in this,
+the mask would have been thrown off, and you--I need not give words to
+his fool intent.  It is fortunate I arrived in time."
+
+"Brave chief!" exclaimed Virginia--"twice have you preserved the lives
+of my brother and myself--more than our lives.  We have neither words
+nor power to thank you.  I can offer only this poor token to prove my
+gratitude."
+
+As she said this, she advanced towards the chief, and handed him a
+folded parchment, which she had drawn from her bosom.
+
+Osceola at once recognised the document.  It was the title deeds of his
+patrimonial estate.
+
+"Thanks, thanks!" he replied, while a sad smile played over his
+features.  "It is, indeed, an act of disinterested friendship.  Alas! it
+has come too late.  She who so much desired to possess this precious
+paper, who so much longed to return to that once loved home, is no more.
+My mother is dead.  On yesternight her spirit passed away."
+
+It was news even to Maumee, who, bursting into a wild paroxysm of grief,
+fell upon the neck of my sister.  Their arms became entwined, and both
+wept--their tears mingling as they fell.
+
+There was silence, broken only by the sobbing of the two girls and at
+intervals the voice of Virginia murmuring words of consolation.  Osceola
+himself appeared too much affected to speak.
+
+After a while, the chief aroused himself from his sorrowing attitude.
+
+"Come, Randolph!" said he--"we must not dwell on the past, while such a
+doubtful future is before us.  You must go back to your home and rebuild
+it.  You have lost only a house.  Your rich lands still remain, and your
+negroes will be restored to you.  I have given orders; they are already
+on the way.  This is no place for her," and he nodded towards Virginia.
+"You need not stay your departure another moment.  Horses are ready for
+you; I myself will conduct you to the borders, and beyond that _you have
+no longer an enemy to fear_."
+
+As he pronounced the last words, he looked significantly towards the
+body of the planter, still lying near the edge of the woods.  I
+understood his meaning, but made no reply.
+
+"And she," I said--"the forest is a rude home, especially in such
+times--may _she go_ with us?"
+
+My words had reference to Maumee.  The chief grasped my hand and held it
+with earnest pressure.  With joy I beheld gratitude sparkling in his
+eye.
+
+"Thanks!" he exclaimed, "thanks for that friendly offer.  It was the
+very favour I would have asked.  You speak true; the trees must shelter
+her no more.  Randolph, I can trust you with her life--with her honour.
+Take her to your home!"
+
+
+
+CHAPTER NINETY FIVE.
+
+THE DEATH WARNING.
+
+The sun was going down as we took our departure from the Indian camp.
+For myself, I had not the slightest idea of the direction in which we
+were to travel, but with such a guide there was no danger of losing the
+way.
+
+We were far from the settlements of the Suwanee--a long day's journey--
+and we did not expect to reach home before another sun should set.  That
+night there would be moonlight, if the clouds did not hinder it; and it
+was our intention to travel throughout the early part of the night, and
+then encamp.  By this means the journey of to-morrow would be shortened.
+
+To our guide the country was well-known, and every road that led through
+it.
+
+For a long distance the route conducted through open woods, and we could
+all ride abreast; but the path grew narrower, and we were compelled to
+go by twos or in single file.
+
+Habitually the young chief and I kept in the advance--our sisters riding
+close behind us.  Behind them came Jake and Viola, and in the rear half
+a dozen Indian horsemen--the guard of Osceola.  I wondered he had not
+brought with him more of his followers, and even expressed my surprise.
+
+He made light of the danger.
+
+The soldiers, he said, knew better than to be out after night, and for
+that part of the country through which we would travel by daylight, no
+troops ever strayed into it.  Besides, there had been no scouting of
+late--the weather was too hot for the work.  If we met any party they
+would be of his own people.  From them, of course, we had nothing to
+fear.  Since the war began he had often travelled most of the same route
+alone.  He appeared satisfied there was no danger.
+
+For my part, I was not satisfied.  I knew that the path we were
+following would pass within a few miles of Fort King.  I remembered the
+escape of Ringgold's crew.  They were likely enough to have ridden
+straight to the fort, and communicated an account of the planter's
+death, garnished by a tale of their own brave attack upon the Indian
+camp.  Among the authorities, Ringgold was no common man; a party might
+be organised to proceed to the camp.  We were on the very road to meet
+them.
+
+Another circumstance I thought of--the mysterious disappearance of the
+mulatto, as was supposed, in company with these men.  It was enough to
+create suspicion.  I mentioned my suspicion to the chief:
+
+"No fear," said he, in reply, "my trackers will be after them--they will
+bring me word in time--but no," he added, hesitatingly, and for a moment
+appearing thoughtful; "they may not get up with them before the night
+falls, and then--you speak true, Randolph--I have acted imprudently.  I
+should not care for these foolish fellows--but the mulatto--that is
+different--he knows all the paths, and if it should be that he is
+turning traitor--if it--Well! we are astart now, and we must go on.
+_You_ have nothing to fear--and as for me--Osceola never yet turned his
+back upon danger, and will not now.  Nay, will you believe me, Randolph,
+I rather seek it than otherwise?"
+
+"Seek danger?"
+
+"Ay--death--death!"
+
+"Speak low--do not let _them_ hear you talk thus."
+
+"Ah! yes," he added, lowering his tone, and speaking in a half
+soliloquy, "in truth, I long for its coming."
+
+The words were spoken with a serious emphasis that left no room to doubt
+of their earnestness.
+
+Some deep melancholy had settled upon his spirit and preyed upon it
+continually.  What could be its cause?
+
+I could remain silent no longer.  Friendship, not curiosity, incited me.
+I put the inquiry.
+
+"_You_ have observed it, then?  But not since we set out--not since you
+made that friendly offer?  Ah!  Randolph, you have rendered me happy.
+It was she alone that made the prospect of death so gloomy."
+
+"Why speak you of death?"
+
+"Because it is near."
+
+"Not to you?"
+
+"Yes--to me.  The presentiment is upon me that I have not long to live."
+
+"Nonsense, Powell."
+
+"Friend, it is true--I have had my death warning."
+
+"Come, Osceola!  This is unlike--unworthy of you.  Surely you are above
+such vulgar fancies.  I will not believe you can entertain them."
+
+"Think you I speak of supernatural signs?  Of the screech of the
+war-bird, or the hooting of the midnight owl?  Of omens in the air, the
+earth, or the water?  No--no.  I _am_ above such shallow superstitions.
+For all that, I know I must soon die.  It was wrong of me to call my
+death warning a presentiment--it is a physical fact that announces my
+approaching end--it is _here_."
+
+As he said this, he raised his hand, pointing with his fingers as if to
+indicate the chest.
+
+I understood his melancholy meaning.
+
+"I would rather," he continued, after a pause, "rather it had been my
+fate to fall upon the field of battle.  True, death is not alluring in
+any shape, but that appears to me most preferable.  I would choose it
+rather than linger on.  Nay, I have chosen it.  Ten times have I thus
+challenged death--gone half-way to meet it; but like a coward, or a coy
+bride, it refuses to meet _me_."
+
+There was something almost unearthly in the laugh that accompanied these
+last words--a strange simile--a strange man!
+
+I could scarce make an effort to cheer him.  In fact, he needed no
+cheering: he seemed happier than before.  Had it not been so, my poor
+speech, assuring him of his robust looks, would have been words thrown
+away.  He knew they were but the false utterances of friendship.
+
+I even suspected it myself.  I had already noticed the pallid skin--the
+attenuated fingers--the glazed and sunken eye.  This, then, was the
+canker that was prostrating that noble spirit--the cause of his deep
+melancholy.  I had assigned to it one far different.
+
+The future of his sister had been the heaviest load upon his heart.  He
+told me so as we moved onward.
+
+I need not repeat the promises I then made to him.  It was not necessary
+they should be vows: my own happiness would hinder me from breaking
+them.
+
+
+
+CHAPTER NINETY SIX.
+
+OSCEOLA'S FATE--CONCLUSION.
+
+We were seated near the edge of the little opening where we had
+encamped, a pretty parterre, fragrant with the perfume of a thousand
+flowers.  The moon was shedding down a flood of silvery light, and
+objects around appeared almost as distinct as by day.  The leaves of the
+tall palms--the waxen flowers of the magnolias--the yellow blossoms of
+the zanthoxylon trees could all be distinguished in the clear moonbeams.
+
+The four of us were seated together, brothers and sisters, conversing
+freely, as in the olden times, and the scene vividly recalled those
+times to all of us.  But the memory now produced only sad reflections,
+as it suggested thoughts of the future.  Perhaps we four should never
+thus meet again.  Gazing upon the doomed form before me, I had no heart
+for reminiscences of joy.
+
+We had passed Fort King in safety--had encountered no white face--
+strange I should fear to meet men of my own race--and no longer had we
+any apprehension of danger, either from ambush or open attack.
+
+The Indian guards, with black Jake in their midst, were near the centre
+of the glade, grouped by a fire, and cooking their suppers.  So secure
+did the chieftain feel that he had not even placed a sentinel on the
+path.  He appeared indifferent to danger.
+
+The night was waning late, and we were about retiring to the tents,
+which the men had pitched for us, when a singular noise reach us from
+the woods.  To my ears it sounded like the surging of water--as of heavy
+rain, or the sough of distant rapids.
+
+Osceola interpreted it otherwise.  It was the continuous "whistling" of
+leaves, caused by numerous bodies passing through the bushes, either of
+men, or animals.
+
+We instantly rose to our feet, and stood listening.
+
+The noise continued, but now we could hear the snapping of dead
+branches, and the metallic clink of weapons.
+
+It was too late to retreat.  The noise came from every ride.  A circle
+of armed men were closing around the glade.
+
+I looked towards Osceola.  I expected to see him rush to his rifle that
+lay near.  To my surprise he did not stir.
+
+His few followers were already on the alert, and had hastened to his
+side to receive his orders.  Their words and gestures declared their
+determination to die in his defence.
+
+In reply to their hurried speeches, the chieftain made a sign that
+appeared to astonish them.  The butts of their guns suddenly dropped to
+the ground, and the warriors stood in listless attitudes, as if they had
+given up the intention of using them.
+
+"It is too late," said Osceola in a calm voice, "too late! we are
+completely surrounded.  Innocent blood might be spilled, and mine is the
+only life they are in search of.  Let them come on--they are welcome to
+it now.  Farewell, sister!  Randolph, farewell!--farewell, Virg--."
+
+The plaintive screams of Maumee--of Virginia--my own bursting, and no
+longer silent grief, drowned the voice that was uttering those wild
+adieus.
+
+Clustered around the chief, we knew not what was passing, until the
+shouts of men, and the loud words of command proceeding from their
+officers, warned us that we were in the midst of a battalion of
+soldiers.  On looking up we saw that we were hemmed in by a circle of
+men in blue uniform, whose glancing barrels and bayonets formed a
+_chevaux de frise_ around us.
+
+As no resistance was offered, not a shot had been fired; and save the
+shouting of men, and the ringing of steel, no other sounds were heard.
+Shots were fired afterwards, but not to kill.  It was a _feu-de-joie_ to
+celebrate the success of this important capture.
+
+The capture was soon complete--Osceola, held by two men, stood in the
+midst of his pale-faced foes a prisoner.  His followers were also
+secured, and the soldiers fell back into more extended line--the
+prisoners still remaining in their midst.
+
+At this moment a mail appeared in front of the ranks, and near to where
+the captives were standing.  He was in conversation with the officer who
+commanded.  His dress bespoke him an Indian; but his yellow face
+contradicted the supposition.  His head was turbaned, and three black
+plumes drooped over his brow.  There was no mistaking the man.  The
+sight was maddening.  It restored all his fierce energy to the captive
+chief; and flinging aside the soldiers, as if they had been tools, he
+sprang forth from their grasp, and bounded towards the yellow man.
+Fortunate for the latter, Osceola was unarmed.  He had no weapon left
+him--neither pistol nor knife--and while wringing a bayonet from the gun
+of a soldier, the traitor found time to escape.
+
+The chief uttered a groan as he saw the mulatto pass through the serried
+line, and stand secure beyond the reach of his vengeance.
+
+It was but a fancied security on the part of the mulatto.  The death of
+the renegade was decreed, though it reached him from an unexpected
+quarter.
+
+As he stood outside, bantering the captives, a dark form was seen
+gliding up behind him.  The form was that of a woman--a majestic woman--
+whose grand beauty was apparent even in the moonlight.  But few saw
+either her or her beauty.  The prisoners alone were facing towards her,
+and witnessed her approach.
+
+It was a scene of only a few seconds' duration.  The woman stole close
+up to the mulatto, and for a moment her arms appeared entwined around
+his neck.  There was the sheen of some object that in the moonlight
+gleamed like metal.  It was a living weapon--it was the dread
+_crotalus_!
+
+Its rattle could be heard distinctly, and close following came a wild
+cry of terror, as its victim felt the cold contact of the reptile around
+his neck, and its sharp fangs entering his flesh.
+
+The woman was seen suddenly to withdraw the serpent, and holding its
+glistening body over her head, she cried out:
+
+"Grieve not, Osceola! thou art avenged!--the chitta mico has avenged
+you!"
+
+Saying this, she glided rapidly away, and before the astonished
+listeners could intercept her retreat, she had entered among the bushes
+and disappeared.
+
+The horror-struck wretch tottered over the ground, pale and terrified,
+his eyes almost starting from their sockets.
+
+Men gathered around and endeavoured to administer remedies.  Gunpowder
+and tobacco were tried, but no one knew the simples that would cure him.
+
+It proved his death-stroke; and before another sun went down, he had
+ceased to live.
+
+------------------------------------------------------------------------
+
+With Osceola's capture the war did not cease--though I bore no further
+part in it.  Neither did it end with his death, which followed a few
+weeks after--not by court-martial execution, for he was no rebel, and
+could claim the privilege of a prisoner of war, but of that disease
+which he knew had long doomed him.  Captivity may have hastened the
+event.  His proud spirit sank under confinement, and with it the noble
+frame that contained it.
+
+Friends and enemies stood around him in his last hour, and listened to
+his dying words.  Both alike wept.  In that chamber there was not a
+tearless cheek--and many a soldier's eye was moist as he listened to the
+muffled dram that made music over the grave of the _noble Osceola_.
+
+------------------------------------------------------------------------
+
+After all, it proved to be the jovial captain who had won the heart of
+my capricious sister.  It was long before I discovered their secret--
+which let light in upon a maze of mysteries--and I was so spited about
+their having concealed it from me, that I almost refused to share the
+plantation with them.
+
+When I did so at length, under threat of Virginia--not her solicitor--I
+kept what I considered the better half for myself and Maumee.  The old
+homestead remained ours, and a new house soon appeared upon it--a
+fitting casket for the jewel it was destined to contain.
+
+I had still an out-plantation to spare--the fine old Spanish clearing on
+the Tupelo Greek.  I wanted a man to manage it--or rather a "man and
+wife of good character without incumbrances."
+
+And for the purpose, who could have been better than black Jake and
+Viola, since they completely answered the above conditions?
+
+I had another freehold at my disposal--a very small one.  It was
+situated by the edge of the swamp, and consisted of a log cabin, with
+the most circumscribed of all "clearings" around it.  But this was
+already in possession of a tenant whom, although he paid no rent, I
+would not have ejected for the world.  He was an old alligator-hunter of
+the name of Hickman.
+
+Another of like "kidney"--Weatherford by name--lived near on an
+adjoining plantation; but the two were oftener together than apart.
+Both had suffered a good deal of rough handling in their time, from the
+claws of "bars," the jaws and tails of alligators, and the tomahawk of
+Indians.  When together or among friends, they were delighted to narrate
+their hair-breadth escapes, and both were often heard to declare that
+the "toughest scrape they ever come clar out o', wor when they wor on a
+jury-trial, surrounded by a burnin' forest o' dog-goned broom pines, an'
+about ten thousand red Indyuns."
+
+They did come clear out of it, however, and lived long after to tell the
+tale with many a fanciful exaggeration.
+
+THE END.
+
+
+
+
+
+
+End of the Project Gutenberg EBook of Osceola the Seminole, by Mayne Reid
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