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diff --git a/5169-h/5169-h.htm b/5169-h/5169-h.htm new file mode 100644 index 0000000..d601ae2 --- /dev/null +++ b/5169-h/5169-h.htm @@ -0,0 +1,7349 @@ +<?xml version="1.0" encoding="utf-8"?> + +<!DOCTYPE html + PUBLIC "-//W3C//DTD XHTML 1.0 Strict//EN" + "http://www.w3.org/TR/xhtml1/DTD/xhtml1-strict.dtd" > + +<html xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml" lang="en"> + <head> + <title> + Hardscrabble; Or, the Fall of Chicago, by John Richardson + </title> + <style type="text/css" xml:space="preserve"> + + body { margin:5%; background:#faebd0; text-align:justify} + P { text-indent: 1em; margin-top: .25em; margin-bottom: .25em; } + H1,H2,H3,H4,H5,H6 { text-align: center; margin-left: 15%; margin-right: 15%; } + hr { width: 50%; text-align: center;} + .foot { margin-left: 20%; margin-right: 20%; text-align: justify; text-indent: -3em; font-size: 90%; } + blockquote {font-size: 97%; font-style: italic; margin-left: 10%; margin-right: 10%;} + .mynote {background-color: #DDE; color: #000; padding: .5em; margin-left: 10%; margin-right: 10%; font-family: sans-serif; font-size: 95%;} + .toc { margin-left: 10%; margin-bottom: .75em;} + .toc2 { margin-left: 20%;} + div.fig { display:block; margin:0 auto; text-align:center; } + div.middle { margin-left: 20%; margin-right: 20%; text-align: justify; } + .figleft {float: left; margin-left: 0%; margin-right: 1%;} + .figright {float: right; margin-right: 0%; margin-left: 1%;} + .pagenum {display:inline; font-size: 70%; font-style:normal; + margin: 0; padding: 0; position: absolute; right: 1%; + text-align: right;} + .side { float: right; font-size: 75%; width: 25%; padding-left: 0.8em; + border-left: dashed thin; margin-left: 0.8em; text-align: left; + text-indent: 0; font-weight: bold; font-style: italic; + font-weight: bold; color: black; background: #eeeeee; border: solid 1px;} + pre { font-style: italic; font-size: 90%; margin-left: 10%;} + +</style> + </head> + <body> + + +<pre> + +The Project Gutenberg EBook of Hardscrabble, by John Richardson + +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: Hardscrabble + The Fall of Chicago: A Tale of Indian Warfare + +Author: John Richardson + + +Release Date: February, 2004 [EBook #5169] +This file was first posted on May 27, 2002 +Last Updated: March 16, 2018 + +Language: English + +Character set encoding: UTF-8 + +*** START OF THIS PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK HARDSCRABBLE *** + + + + +Text file produced by Gardner Buchanan with help from Charles Franks +and Distributed Proofers + +HTML file produced by David Widger + + + + +</pre> + + <div style="height: 8em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h1> + HARDSCRABBLE;<br /> OR, THE FALL OF CHICAGO + </h1> + <h3> + A TALE OF INDIAN WARFARE + </h3> + <p> + <br /> + </p> + <h2> + By John Richardson + </h2> + <p> + <br /><br /> + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + <br /><br /> + </p> + <p> + <b>CONTENTS</b> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0001"> CHAPTER I. </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0002"> CHAPTER II. </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0003"> CHAPTER III. </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0004"> CHAPTER IV. </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0005"> CHAPTER V. </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0006"> CHAPTER VI. </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0007"> CHAPTER VII. </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0008"> CHAPTER VIII. </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0009"> CHAPTER IX. </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0010"> CHAPTER X. </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0011"> CHAPTER XI. </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0012"> CHAPTER XII. </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0013"> CHAPTER XIII. </a> + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0001" id="link2HCH0001"> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER I. + </h2> + <p> + It was on a beautiful day in the early part of the month of April, 1812, + that four persons were met in a rude farm-house, situated on the Southern + Branch of the Chicago river, and about four miles distant from the fort of + that name. They had just risen from their humble mid-day meal, and three + of them were now lingering near the fire-place, filled with blazing logs, + which, at that early season, diffused a warmth by no means disagreeable, + and gave an air of cheerfulness to the interior of the smoke-discolored + building. + </p> + <p> + He who appeared to be master of the establishment was a tall, good looking + man of about forty-five, who had, evidently, been long a denizen of the + forest, for his bronzed countenance bore traces of care and toil, while + his rugged, yet well-formed hands conveyed the impression of the unceasing + war he had waged against the gigantic trees of this Western land. He was + habited in a hunting-frock of grey homespun, reaching about half way down + to his knee, and trimmed with a full fringe of a somewhat darker hue. His + trowsers were of the same material, and both were girt around his loins by + a common belt of black leather, fastened by a plain white buckle, into + which was thrust a sheath of black leather also, containing a large knife + peculiar to the backwoodsmen of that day. His feet were encased in + moccasins, and on his head, covered with strong dark hair, was carelessly + donned a slouched hat of common black felt, with several plaited folds of + the sweet grass, of the adjoining prairie for a band. He was seemingly a + man of strong muscular power, while his stern dark eye denoted firmness + and daring. + </p> + <p> + The elder of the two men, to whom this individual stood, evidently, in the + character of a superior, was a short thick-set person of about fifty, with + huge whiskers that, originally black, had been slightly grizzled by time. + His eyebrows were bushy and overhanging, and almost concealed the small, + and twinkling eyes, which it required the beholder to encounter more than + once before he could decide their true color to be a dark gray. A blanket + coat that had once been white, but which the action of some half dozen + winters had changed into a dirty yellow, enveloped his rather full form, + around which it was confined by a coarse worsted sash of mingled blue and + red, thickly studded with minute white beads. His trowsers, with broad + seams, after the fashion of the Indian legging, were of a dark crimson, + approaching to a brick-dust color, and on his feet he wore the stiff + shoe-pack, which, with the bonnet bleu on his grizzled head, and the other + parts of his dress already described, attested him to be what he was—a + French Canadian. Close at his heels, and moving as he moved, or squatted + on his haunches, gazing into the face of his master when stationary, was a + large dog of the mongrel breed peculiar to the country—evidently + with wolf blood in his veins. + </p> + <p> + His companion was of a different style of figure and costume. He was a + thin, weak-looking man, of middle height, with a complexion that denoted + his Saxon origin. Very thin brows, retrousse nose, and a light gray eye in + which might be traced an expression half simple, half cunning, completed + the picture of this personage, whose lank body was encased in an old + American uniform of faded blue, so scanty in its proportions that the + wrists of the wearer wholly exposed themselves beneath the short, narrow + sleeves, while the skirts only “shadowed not concealed,” that part of the + body they had been originally intended to cover. A pair of blue + pantaloons, perfectly in keeping, on the score of scantiness and age, with + the coat, covered the attenuated lower limbs of the wearer, on whose head, + moreover, was stuck a conical cap that had all the appearance of having + been once a portion of the same uniform, and had only undergone change in + the loss of its peak. A small black leather, narrow ridged stock was + clasped around his thin, and scare-crow neck, and that so tightly that it + was the wonder of his companions how strangulation had so long been + avoided. A dirty, and very coarse linen shirt, showed itself partially + between the bottom of the stock, and the uppermost button of the coat, + which was carefully closed, while his feet were protected from the + friction of the stiff, though nearly worn out, military shoes, by wisps of + hay, that supplied the absence of the sock. This man was about five and + thirty. + </p> + <p> + The last of the little party was a boy. He was a raw-boned lad of about + fourteen years of age, and of fair complexion, with blue eyes, and an + immense head of bushy hair, of the same hue, which seemed never to have + known the use of the comb. His feet were naked, and his trowsers and + shirt, the only articles of dress upon him at the moment, were of a + homespun somewhat resembling in color the hunting frock of his master. A + thick black leather strap was also around his loins—evidently part + of an old bridle rein. + </p> + <p> + The two men first described, drew near the fire and lighted their pipes. + The ex-militaire thrust a quid of tobacco into his cheek, and taking up a + small piece of pine board that rested against the chimney corner, split a + portion off this with his jack-knife, and commenced whittling. The boy + busied himself in clearing the table, throwing occasionally scraps of + bread and dried venison, which had constituted the chief portion of the + meal, to the dog, which, however, contrary to custom, paid little + attention to these marks of favor, but moved impatiently, at intervals, to + the door, then returning, squatted himself again on his haunches, at a + short distance from his master, and uttering a low sound betwixt a whine + and a growl, looked piteously up into his face. + </p> + <p> + “Vat the devil is de matter wid you, Loup Garou?” remarked the Canadian at + length, as, removing the pipe from his lips, he stretched his legs, and + poised himself in his low wood-bottomed chair, putting forth his right + hand at the same time to his canine follower. “You not eat, and you make + noise as if you wish me to see one racoon in de tree.” + </p> + <p> + “Loup Garou don't prate about coons I guess,” drawled the man in the faded + uniform, without, however, removing his eyes from the very interesting + occupation in which he was engaged. “That dog I take it, Le Noir, means + something else—something more than we human critters know. By gosh, + boss,” looking for the first time at him who stood in that position to the + rest of the party—“If WE can't smell the varmint, I take it Loup + Garou does.” + </p> + <p> + At this early period of civilization, in these remote countries, there was + little distinction of rank between the master and the man—the + employer and the employed. Indeed the one was distinguished from the other + only by the instructions given and received, in regard to certain services + to be performed. They labored together—took their meals together—generally + smoked together—drank together—conversed together, and if they + did not absolutely sleep together, often reposed in the same room. There + was, therefore, nothing extraordinary in the familiar tone in which the + ci-devant soldier now addressed him whose hired help he was. The latter, + however, was in an irritable mood, and he answered sharply. + </p> + <p> + “What have you got into your foolish head now, Ephraim Giles? You do + nothing but prophesy evil. What varmint do you talk of, and what has Loup + Garou to do with it? Speak, what do you mean?—if you mean anything + at all.” + </p> + <p> + As he uttered this half rebuke, he rose abruptly from his chair, shook the + ashes from his pipe, and drew himself to his full height, with his back to + the fire. There had been nothing very remarkable in the observation made + by the man to whom he had addressed himself, but he was in a peculiar + state of mind, that gave undue importance to every word, sounding, as it + did, a vague presentiment of some coming evil, which the very singular + manner of the dog had created, although he would scarcely acknowledge this + to himself. + </p> + <p> + The man made no reply, but continued whittling, humming, at the same time, + the air of “Yankee Doodle.” + </p> + <p> + “Answer me, Ephraim Giles,” peremptorily resumed his master; “leave off + that eternal whittling of yours, if you can, and explain to me your + meaning.” + </p> + <p> + “Etarnal whittling! do you call it, Boss? I guess it's no such thing. No + man knows better nor you, that, if I can whittle the smallest stick in + creation, I can bring down the stoutest tree as well as ere a fellow in + Michigan. Work is work—play is play. It's only the difference, I + reckon, of the axe and the knife.” + </p> + <p> + “Will you answer my question like a man, and not like a fool, as you are?” + shouted the other, stooping, and extending his left hand, the fingers of + which he insinuated into the stock already described, while, with a + powerful jerk, he both brought the man to his feet, and the blood into his + usually cadaverous cheek. + </p> + <p> + Ephraim Giles, half-throttled, and writhing with pain, made a movement as + if he would have used the knife in a much less innocent manner than + whittling, but the quick, stern eye of his master, detected the + involuntary act, and his hand, suddenly relinquishing its hold of the + collar, grasped the wrist of the soldier with such a vice-like pressure, + that the fingers immediately opened, and the knife fell upon the hearth. + </p> + <p> + The violence of his own act, brought Mr. Heywood at once to a sense of the + undue severity he had exercised towards his servant, and he immediately + said, taking his hand: + </p> + <p> + “Ephraim Giles, forgive me, but it was not intended. Yet, I know not how + it is, the few words you spoke just now made me anxious to know what you + meant, and I could not repress my impatience to hear your explanation.” + </p> + <p> + The soldier had never before remarked so much dignity of manner about his + Boss, as he termed Mr. Heywood, and this fact, added to the recollection + of the severe handling he had just met with, caused him to be a little + more respectful in his address. + </p> + <p> + “Well, I reckon,” he said, picking up his knife, and resuming his + whittling, but in a less absorbed manner, “I meant no harm, but merely + that Loup Garou can nose an Injin better than ere a one of us.” + </p> + <p> + “Nose an Indian better than any one of us! Well, perhaps he can—he + sees them every day, but what has that to do with his whining and growling + just now?” + </p> + <p> + “Well, I'll tell you, Boss, what I mean, more plain-like. You know that + patch of wood borderin' on the prairie, where you set me to cut, t'other + day?” + </p> + <p> + “I do. What of that?” + </p> + <p> + “Well, then, this mornin' I was cuttin' down as big an oak as ever grew in + Michigan, when, as it went thunderin' through the branches, with noise + enough to scare every buffalo within a day's hunt, up started, not twenty + yards from it's tip, ten or a dozen or so of Injins, all gruntin' like + pigs, and looking as fierce as so many red devils. They didn't look quite + pleasant, I calcilate.” + </p> + <p> + “Indeed,” remarked Mr. Heywood, musingly; “a party of Pottawattamies I + presume, from the Fort. We all know there is a large encampment of them in + the neighborhood, but they are our friends.” + </p> + <p> + “May-be so,” continued Ephraim Giles, “but these varmint didn't look over + friendly, and then I guess the Pottawattamies don't dress in war paint, + 'cept when they dance for liquor.” + </p> + <p> + “And are you quite sure these Indians were in their war paint?” asked his + master, with an ill-concealed look of anxiety. + </p> + <p> + “No mistake about it,” replied Giles, still whittling, “and I could almost + swear, short as the squint was I got of 'em, that they were part of those + who fought us on the Wabash, two years ago.” + </p> + <p> + “How so, den, you are here, Gile. If dey wicked Injin, how you keep your + funny little cap, an' your scalp under de cap?” + </p> + <p> + This question was asked by the Canadian, who had hitherto, while puffing + his pipe, listened indifferently to the conversation, but whose attention + had now become arrested, from the moment that his fellow-laborer had + spoken of the savages, so strangely disturbed by him. + </p> + <p> + “Well, I don't exactly know about that, myself,” returned the soldier, + slightly raising his cap and scratching his crown, as if in recollection + of some narrowly escaped danger. “I reckon, tho', when I see them slope up + like a covey of red-legged pattridges, my heart was in my mouth, for I + looked for nothin' else but that same operation: but I wur just as well + pleased, when, after talkin' their gibberish, and makin' all sorts of + signs among themselves, they made tracks towards the open prairie.” + </p> + <p> + “And why did you not name this, the instant you got home?” somewhat + sternly questioned Mr. Heywood. + </p> + <p> + “Where's the use of spilin' a good dinner?” returned the soldier. “It was + all smokin' hot when I came in from choppin', and I thought it best for + every man to tuck it in before I said a word about it. Besides, I reckon I + don't know as they meant any harm, seein' as how they never carried off my + top-knot;—only it was a little queer they were hid in that way in + the woods, and looked so fierce when they first jumped up in their nasty + paint.” + </p> + <p> + “Who knows,” remarked Mr. Heywood, taking down his rifle from the side of + the hut opposite to the chimney, and examining the priming, “but these + fellows may have tracked you back, and are even now, lurking near us. + Ephraim Giles, you should have told me of this before.” + </p> + <p> + “And so,” replied the soldier, “I was goin' to, when Loup Garou began with + his capers. Then it was I gave a parable like, about his scentin' the + varmint better nor we human critters could.” + </p> + <p> + “Ephraim Giles,” said Mr. Heywood, sharply, while he fixed his dark eye + upon him, as if he would have read his inmost soul, “you say that you have + been a soldier, and fought with our army on the Wabash. Why did you leave + the service?” + </p> + <p> + “Because,” drawled the ex-militaire, with a leering expression of his eye, + “my captin was a bad judge of good men when he had 'em, and reckoned I was + shammin' when I fell down rale sick, and was left behind in a charge made + on the Injins at Tippecanoe. I couldn't stand the abuse he gave me for + this, and so I left him.” + </p> + <p> + “Cool, indeed,” sneered Mr. Heywood; “now then, Ephraim Giles, hear my + opinion. Your captain thought you were a coward, for he judged you from + your conduct. I, too, judge you from your conduct, and have no hesitation + in pronouncing you to be a rogue or a fool.” + </p> + <p> + “Well, I want to know!” was the only rejoinder of the man, as he went on + unconcernedly with his whittling. + </p> + <p> + “Le Noir,” said his master to the Canadian, who, imitating his example, + had taken down a long duck gun from the same side of the hut, “take your + dog with you and reconnoitre in the neighborhood. You speak Indian, and if + any of these people are to be seen, ascertain who they are and why—” + </p> + <p> + Here he was interrupted by the gradually approaching sounds of rattling + deer hoofs, so well known as composing one of the lower ornaments of the + Indian war-dress, while, at the same moment, the wild moaning of Loup + Garou, then standing at the front door-way, was renewed even more + plaintively than before. + </p> + <p> + Mr. Heywood's cheek blanched. It was not with fear, for he was a man + incapable of fear in the common acceptation of the word, but independently + of certain vague apprehensions for others, his mind had been in a great + degree unhinged by an unaccountable presentiment of evil, which + instinctively had come over it that day. It was this, that, inducing a + certain irresoluteness of thought and action, had led him into a + manifestation of peevish contradiction in his address to Ephraim Giles. + There are moments, when, without knowing why, the nerves of the strongest—the + purposes of the wisest, are unstrung—and when it requires all our + tact and self-possession to conceal from others, the momentary weakness we + almost blush to admit to ourselves. + </p> + <p> + But there was no time for reflection. The approach to the door was + suddenly shaded, and in the next instant the dark forms of three or four + savages, speedily followed by others, amounting in all to twelve, besides + their chief, who was in the advance, crossed the threshold, and, without + uttering a word, either of anger or salutation, squatted themselves upon + the floor. They were stout, athletic warriors, the perfect symmetry of + whose persons could not be concealed even by the hideous war-paint with + which they were thickly streaked—inspiring anything but confidence + in the honesty or friendliness of their intentions. The head of each was + shaved and painted as well as his person, and only on the extreme crown + had been left a tuft of hair, to which were attached feathers, and small + bones, and other fantastic ornaments peculiar to their race—a few of + them carried American rifles—the majority, the common gun + periodically dealt out to the several tribes, as presents from the British + Government, while all had in addition to their pipe-tomahawks the + formidable and polished war-club. + </p> + <p> + Such visitors, and so armed, were not of a description to remove the + apprehensions of the little party in the farm-house. Their very silence, + added to their dark and threatening looks, created more than mere + suspicion—a certainty of evil design—and deeply did Mr. + Heywood deplore the folly of Ephraim Giles in failing to apprise him of + his meeting with these people, at the earliest moment after his return. + Had he done so, there might have been a chance, nay, every assurance of + relief, for he knew that a party from the fort, consisting of a + non-commissioned officer and six men, were even now fishing not more than + two miles higher up the river. He was aware that the boy, Wilton, was an + excellent runner, and that within an hour, at least, he could have reached + and brought down that party, who, as was their wont, when absenting + themselves on these fishing excursions, were provided with their arms. + However, it might not yet be too late, and he determined to make the + attempt. To call and speak to the boy aside, would, he was well aware, + excite the suspicions of his unwelcome guests, while it was possible that, + as they did not understand English, (so at least he took it for granted) a + communication made to him boldly in their presence, would be construed + into some domestic order. + </p> + <p> + “Wilton,” he said calmly to the boy, who stood near the doorway with alarm + visibly depicted on his countenance, and looking as if he would eagerly + seize a favorable opportunity of escape, “make all haste to the fishing + party, and tell Corporal Nixon who commands it, to lose no time in pulling + down the stream. You will come back with them. Quick, lose not a moment.” + </p> + <p> + Delighted at the order, the boy made no answer, but hatless—shoeless + as he was, disappeared round the corner of the house. Strange to say, the + Indians, although they had seemingly listened with attention to Mr. + Heywood while issuing these directions, did not make the slightest + movement to arrest the departure of the boy, or even to remark upon it—merely + turning to their chief, who uttered a sharp and satisfied “ugh.” + </p> + <p> + During all this time, Mr. Heywood and Le Noir stood at some little + distance from the Indians, and nearly on the spot they had occupied at + their entrance, the one holding his rifle, the other his duck-gun, the + butts of both, resting on the floor. At each moment their anxiety + increased, and it seemed an age before the succor they had sent for could + arrive. How long, moreover, would these taciturn and forbidding-mannered + savages wait before they gave some indication of overt hostility, and even + if nothing were done prior to the arrival of the fishing party, would + these latter be in sufficient force to awe them into a pacific departure? + The Indians were twelve in number, exclusive of their chief, all fierce + and determined. They, with the soldiers, nine; for neither Mr. Heywood nor + Le Noir seemed disposed to count upon any efficient aid from Ephraim + Giles, who, during this dumb scene, continued whittling before the + Indians, apparently as cool and indifferent to their presence, as if he + had conceived them to be the most peaceably disposed persons in the world. + He had, however, listened attentively to the order given to Wilton by his + master, and had not failed to remark that the Indians had not, in any way, + attempted to impede his departure. + </p> + <p> + “What do you think of these people, Le Noir,” at length asked Mr. Heywood, + without, however removing his gaze from his visitors. “Can they be + friendly Pottawattamies?” + </p> + <p> + “Friendly Pottawattamies! no, sare,” returned the Canadian seriously, and + shrugging up his shoulders. “Dey no dress, no paint like de Pottawattamie, + and I not like der black look—no, sare, dey Winnebago.” + </p> + <p> + He laid a strong emphasis on the last word, and as he expected, a general + “ugh” among the party attested that he had correctly named their tribe. + </p> + <p> + While they were thus expressing their conjectures in regard to the + character and intentions of their guests, and inwardly determining to sell + their lives as dearly as possible if attacked. Ephraim Giles had risen + from his seat in the corner of the chimney, and with his eyes fixed on the + stick he was whittling, walked coolly out of the door, and sauntered down + the pathway leading to the river. But if he had calculated on the same + indifference to his actions that the Indians had manifested towards the + boy, he was mistaken. They all watched him keenly as he slowly sauntered + towards the water, and then, when he had got about half way, the chief + suddenly springing to his feet, and brandishing his tomahawk demanded in + broken, but perfectly intelligible English, where he was going. + </p> + <p> + “Well, I want to know,” exclaimed the soldier, turning round, and in a + tone indicating surprise that he had thus been questioned—“only goin + over thar,” he continued, pointing to the haystacks on the opposite side + of the river, around which stood many cattle, “goin I guess to give out + some grub to the beasts, and I'll he back in no time, to give you out some + whisky.” Then, resuming his course, he went on whittling as unconcernedly + as before. + </p> + <p> + The chief turned to his followers, and a low, yet eager conversation + ensued. Whether it was that the seeming indifference of the man, or his + promise of the whisky on his return, or that some other motive influenced + them, they contented themselves with keeping a vigilant watch upon his + movements. + </p> + <p> + Mr. Heywood and the Frenchman exchanged looks of surprise; they could not + account for the action of Ephraim Giles, for although it was his office to + cross the river daily for the purpose he had named, it had never been at + that period of the day. How the Indians could suffer his departure, if + their intentions were really hostile, it was moreover impossible for them + to comprehend; and in proportion as the hopes of the one were raised by + this circumstance, so were those of the other depressed. + </p> + <p> + Mr. Heywood began to think that the suspicions of the Canadian were + unfounded, and that their guests were, after all, but a party of warriors + on their way to the Fort, either for purposes of traffic with the only + merchant residing in its vicinity, or of business with the officer + commanding. It was not likely, he reasoned, that men coming with hostile + designs, would have suffered first the boy to be despatched on a mission + which, obscurely as he had worded his directions, must in some measure + have been understood by the chief; and, secondly, permitted Ephraim Giles + to leave the house in the manner just seen—particularly when the + suspicion entertained by him as well as by Le Noir and himself, must have + been apparent. + </p> + <p> + But the Canadian drew no such inference from these facts. Although he + could not speak the Winnebago language, he was too conversant with the + customs of the Indians, to perceive, in what they permitted in this + seeming confidence, anything but guile. He felt assured they had allowed + the boy to depart on his errand SOLELY that they might have a greater + number of victims in their power. Nothing was more easy, numerous as they + were, than to despatch THEM, and then, lying in ambush among the trees + that skirted the banks, to shoot down every one in the fishing boat before + a landing could be effected, and preparations made for defence; while, in + the indifference of their conduct in regard to the departure of Ephraim + Giles, he saw but a design to disarm suspicion, and thus induce them to + lay by their arms, the reports of which would necessarily alarm the party + expected, and so far put them on their guard as to defeat their plans. The + very appearance of Giles, moreover, crossing the water, if seen by the + descending boat would, he thought they imagined, be a means of lulling the + party into security, and thus rendering them a more easy prey. + </p> + <p> + While the master and the servant were thus indulging their opposite + reflections, without, however, making any intercommunication of them, + Ephraim Giles, who had now thrust his knife and stick into the pocket of + his short skirt, shoved off the only canoe that was to be seen, and + stepping into it, and seizing the paddle, urged it slowly, and without the + slightest appearance of hurry, to the opposite bank, where, within less + than ten minutes, he had again hauled it up. Then, as coolly ascending the + bank, he approached one of the haystacks, and drew from it a few handfuls + of fodder which he spread upon the ground, continuing to do so, as the + cattle assembled around, until he had gained the outermost haystack + bordering immediately upon the wood. This reached, he gave a loud yell, + which was promptly answered by the Indians, who had continued to watch his + movements up to the very moment of his disappearance; and darting along a + narrow path which skirted the wood, ran with all his speed towards the + Fort. His flight had not lasted five minutes, when the reports of several + guns, fired from the direction he had just quitted, met his ear, and urged + him to even greater exertion, until at length, haggard and breathless, he + gained his destination, and made his way to the commanding officer, to + whom he briefly detailed the startling occurrences he had witnessed. + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0002" id="link2HCH0002"> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER II. + </h2> + <p> + The Fort of Chicago, at that period, stood upon a portion of the same + ground occupied by its successor, and was, in fact, a very epitome of a + fortress. On the western side, two block-houses constituted its chief + defence, while on the north, a subterranean passage led from the + parade-ground to the river, near the banks of which it had been erected. + The uses of this sally port were two-fold—firstly, to afford the + garrison a supply of water in the event of a siege—secondly, to + facilitate escape, if necessary. The country around, now the seat of + fruitfulness and industry, was at that time a wilderness, tenanted only by + the savage, and by the few daring and adventurous whites who had devoted + their lives to purposes of traffic, yet whose numbers was so small as to + induce them, with a view to their safety, to establish themselves as near + the Fort as possible. Roads, there were none, and the half formed trail of + the Indian furnished the only means of communication between this distant + port, and the less thinly-settled portions of Michigan. Nor were these + journeys of frequent occurrence, but performed at long intervals, by the + enterprising and the robust men—who feared not to encounter + privations and hardships—camping at night in the woods, or finding a + less desirable repose in the squalid wigwam of the uncertain Indian. + </p> + <p> + The mouth of the Chicago River was then nearly half a mile more to the + southward than it is now. At a short distance from the lake, which gives + its name to the territory, it soon branched off abruptly to the north, and + then again, taking another turn, pursued its original westernly coarse, + and, passing near the Fort, gave to the latter the appearance of a + slightly elevated peninsula, separated only from the water by a gentle + declivity of no great extent. On the same side of the river was the + Government Agency House, and at about a quarter of a mile from that, a + spot generally used as a place of encampment by the friendly Indians—at + that moment occupied by a numerous band of Pottawattamies. Immediately + opposite to the Fort, stood the residence and trading establishment of Mr. + Mackenzie—a gentleman who had long mixed with the Indians—had + much influence with, and was highly regarded by them; and, close to his + abode, lived with his family, consisting of his wife and her sister, + French Canadians like himself, Ouilmette, one of the most attached of his + people, and enjoying almost equal popularity with the red men. About a + quarter of a mile beyond Ouilmettes, and immediately opposite to the + Pottawattamie encampment, from which it was divided only by the river, was + another small but neat dwelling. This belonged to Mr. Heywood, and was + then inhabited by his wife and daughter, whom he would not permit to + reside at the farm, as well on account of its rudeness of accommodation, + as of the dread of exposing them, in that remote situation, to the very + danger which we have seen he had himself so recently encountered. + </p> + <p> + Such was the civilian population of that sparsely inhabited country in + 1812. Let us now see the strength of its garrison. + </p> + <p> + For the defence of so distant an outpost, almost cut off, as we have + already shown, from communication with the more inhabited portions of the + States, the American government had not thought it requisite to provide + more than a single company of soldiers, a force utterly inadequate to + contend in a case of emergency, with the hordes of savages that could be + collected around them within a few hours, and WEEKS before any efficient + succor could be obtained. This error, grave at any time, in those who + sought to extend the influence of their name and arms throughout that + fertile region which has now, within little more than a quarter of a + century, become the very head of American commerce and navigation, was + especially so at this particular epoch, when the Indian spirit, stirred to + action by the great chief who had so recently measured his strength with + his hated enemies at Tippecanoe, was likely to be aroused on all occasions + where facility of conquest seemed to present itself. And, yet, that + government well knew that there were, even at that moment, difficulties + existing between themselves and Great Britain of a character to lead to an + interruption of the friendly intercourse that had hitherto subsisted + between the two countries, and which, if suffered to ripen into + hostilities, would necessarily, associate many of the Indian tribes with + the forces of England, drawing down certain destruction on those remoter + posts, whose chief reliance on immunity from danger, lay, in a great + degree, in the array of strength they could oppose to their subtle and + calculating enemy. + </p> + <p> + This company, consisting, of seventy-five men—many of them married + and with families—was under the command of an officer whose conduct + throughout the eventful and trying scenes about to be recorded, has often + been the subject of much censure—with what justice our readers must + determine. + </p> + <p> + Captain Headley was one of those officers who, without having acquired no + greater rank at the age of forty than he now possessed, had served in the + army of the United States from his boyhood, and was, in all the minutiae + of the service, a strict disciplinarian. He had, moreover, acquired habits + of deference to authority, which caused him, on all necessary occasions, + to regulate his conduct by the orders of his superiors, and so strongly + was this engrafted on his nature, that while he possessed mind and energy + sufficient to plan the most feasible measures himself, his dread of that + responsibility which circumstances had now forced upon him, induced the + utmost disinclination to depart from the letter of an instruction once + received, and unrevoked. + </p> + <p> + These, however, were purely faults of his military education. To a + commanding person and dignified manners, Captain Headley united a mind + highly cultivated, and feelings and sentiments which could not fail to + secure the respect even of those who were most ready to condemn that + caution and prudence of character which so eminently distinguished his + career as a subordinate soldier. It was well known and conceded that, if + he erred, the error grew not so much out of his own want of judgment, but + was rather the fruit of the too great deference to authority which led + him, implicitly, to adopt the judgment of others. In the private relations + of life, he was deservedly esteemed, excelling in all those higher + accomplishments that ensure favor with society, and seldom fail to win for + their possessor the approbation of women. Such, indeed, had been his + success in this particular application of the gifts with which nature had + endowed him, that he had, for some years, been the possessor of the + affections and the hand of one of the noblest of her sex, whom, however, + we shall take a later opportunity of introducing to the reader. + </p> + <p> + The next officer in rank was Lieutenant Elmsley, married also, and about + ten years the junior of Headley. From causes, which will be explained in + the coarse of our narrative, the subaltern did not incline to place that + confidence in the measures and judgment of his captain, which, it has been + shown, the latter almost invariably accorded to HIS superiors, and hence + arose feelings, that, without absolutely alienating them—for, in + their relative military positions this could never be—rendered their + intercourse daily more and more formal, until, in the end, a sentiment + almost of enmity prevailed. In a remote garrison like this such an evil + was the more to be regretted, even while there was the greater + probability, from absence of serious occupation, of its occurrence. + </p> + <p> + The junior subaltern was Ensign Ronayne, a high-spirited young Southerner, + who had now been three years at the post, and within that period, had, by + his frank demeanor, and handsome person, won the regard of all—military + and civil—there and in the neighborhood. Enterprising, ardent, + fearless, and chivalrous, this young man had passed the first year of what + he, then, considered little short of banishment, in a restless desire for + adventure; but at the end of that period, came a marked change over him, + and the spirit that had panted exclusively for action, now bent before a + gentler and a holier influence. + </p> + <p> + Last of the officers of this little fort, was the surgeon. Doctor Von + Vottenberg, who as his name would imply, was a descendant from one of the + earlier Dutch settlers in the colonies. There was nothing remarkable about + this gentleman. He was short, stoat, rather of a bilious temperament—clever + in his profession, and much addicted to compounding whisky punch, which he + not only brewed, but drank most satisfactorily. What other attributes and + accomplishments he possessed, the incidents herein related must develop. + </p> + <p> + It has been said that, on its Western side, the Fort was protected by two + block-houses, while on the northern a sally port communicated with the + tower. On each side of the sally port were two small stores, reserved for + the ammunition and arms, and for the provisions and spare clothing of the + garrison. On the north and south faces, rose a series of small low wooden + buildings, appropriated to the officers, and capable of containing thrice + the number now occupying them. The southern face, or that which looks + towards the locale of the scene described in our last chapter, was now the + residence of the commanding officer, and of his senior subordinate, who, + with their families and domestics, tenanted the whole of that range of + buildings, with the exception of one large room in the centre, generally + used as a hall of council with the Indians. In the other range, precisely + similar in construction, were quartered Ensign Ronayne and the surgeon Von + Vottenberg, who each, however occupied but one apartment. The central and + largest serving as their mess-room. The other half of the building was + vacant, or rather had been so, until the doctor obtained the permission of + the commanding officer to use it as a temporary surgery—the hospital + being a distinct edifice between the two block-houses. These latter, + capacious for the size of the fort, accommodated the non-commissioned + officers and men—the company being divided as equally as possible + between the two. + </p> + <p> + Without the whole of these buildings stood a strong stockade, about twelve + feet high, loop-holed for musquetry, with a bastion at each angle, facing + the four principal points of the compass, on each of which was placed a + small gun, that the men had been trained to work. The entrance to the fort + was from the westward, and in the direction of the agency house, which two + of these bastions immediately flanked. + </p> + <p> + The guard consisted of a non-commissioned officer and nine men—three + sentries being furnished for the necessary duties—one for the stores + already described—another for the commanding officer's quarters—the + mess-room and the surgery, and the third for the, southern bastion, upon + which floated the glorious stars and stripes of the Union. A fourth sentry + at the gate had been dispensed with, in consequence of the proximity to it + of the guard-house. This, was a small building immediately in front of the + hospital, which, with the gate, came particularly under the surveillance + of the non-commissioned officer of the guard. + </p> + <p> + With the character for strict attention to discipline, which has been + ascribed to Captain Headley, it will be easily understood that every man + on duty was expected to be as correct in the execution of its details, as + though he had been at the Head Quarters of his regiment, or at the Seat of + Government itself. The utmost regard to dress, and to the efficiency of + arms was moreover enjoined, and so far did their commander feel indisposed + to trust the inspection of them to the non-commissioned officer of the + guard, that, although there were in the Fort, but two regimental officers + besides himself, he had, from the moment of assuming the command, required + them alternately to perform the necessary duties; superintending the + relief of guards, and parading all men off duty and out of hospital, in + full dress, at least once in the twenty-four hours. + </p> + <p> + At the outset, this had been a source of much discontent with the men, who + conceiving that, in that remote region, the rigor of the service might be + dispensed with, almost openly expressed their desire that there might be + sent to command them, some officer less severe in his exactions. This had + been reported to Captain Headley by his senior subaltern, from whose + manner, while communicating the information, it was apparent that he did + not wholly disapprove of a remonstrance against measures which involved + the sacrifice of his own comfort. His superior was not slow to remark + this, he, however, quietly observed that he was not, at his years, and in + his responsible position, to be told the duty required to be performed by + the troops under his command; and that, if he perceived any symptoms of + insubordination, he would take the proper means to suppress it. The + lieutenant made no reply, but bit his lip, and withdrew. This was the + first manifestation of any thing approaching to disunion, between these + two officers. + </p> + <p> + Lieutenant Elmsley, although by no means a negligent officer, was no + disciplinarian. He could not but look upon formal guard mountings and + parades, in that isolated quarter, as unnecessary—serving only to + create discontent amongst the men, and to induce them—the unmarried + especially—to desert, whenever an opportunity presented itself; + while, bringing the subject more immediately home to himself, he deemed it + to be a needlessly severe tax upon the only two subalterns of the + garrison. This, he thought might, situated as they were, have been + dispensed with, without the slightest inconvenience to the service; and + the duty left to the superintendence of the non-commissioned part of the + force. Hence his annoyance with his superior. + </p> + <p> + But Captain Headley was of a different opinion. He thought that the very + remoteness of his post, rendered it the more necessary that no appearance + of carelessness should be remarked by the tribes of Indians, who were in + the vicinity, and who, however amicable their relations THEN with the + United States, might later, from caprice or events yet unforeseen, take + advantage of the slightest negligence, to attempt the destruction of all. + </p> + <p> + Better, he thought, that they who received the pay of the Government, for + upholding its interests and dignity, should be subject to a frequent + recurrence of duty—not in itself particularly irksome-than that an + important post—the nucleus of the future prosperity of the State—should + be perilled by the absence of that vigilance which ought to characterize + the soldier. If he allowed to be retrenched, or indeed left unemployed, + any of that military exhibition, which tends to impress upon the many the + moral superiority of the few, where, he argued, would be their safety in + the hour of need; and if those duties were performed in a slovenly manner, + and without due regard to SCENIC effect, the result would be to induce the + wily savage to undervalue that superiority which discipline chiefly + secured to the white warrior. Captain Headley was discriminating and + observant. He had, more than once, remarked the surprise and admiration + created among the Indians who had access within the stockade, at the + promptness and regularity of the system introduced into it, and this, of + itself, was a sufficient motive to cause him to persevere in the course + his judgment had adopted. + </p> + <p> + Such was the condition of affairs at the moment when Ephraim Giles, + breathless with speed, and fancying the party of Winnebagoes close upon + his heels, made his entry into the Fort. The news he brought was of a + nature to assemble the officers, as well as many of the men and women, all + anxious to hear the details of an occurrence, which now, for the first + time since their arrival at the Fort, had created serious apprehension. + But there was one of the party who manifested more than ordinary + uneasiness. His impatience was great, and, after having whispered a few + words in the ear of Captain Headley, and received an affirmative reply, + coupled with an injunction of caution, he left the building in haste, and + proceeded towards the block-houses, where, selecting half a dozen men, and + ordering them to arm on the instant, he passed with them through the gate—sprang + into a large scow which was unchained from its moorings, on the bank of + the river, and pulled in the direction of the house already said to have + been occupied by the wife and daughter of Mr. Heywood. + </p> + <p> + Meanwhile, Captain Headley closely interrogated the fugitive as to the + number and appearance of the Indians who had created all this alarm, their + probable object in visiting the farm in this seemingly hostile manner, and + the number of shots he had heard fired. To all these questions the + soldier, who had now, in some degree, recovered from his panic, replied in + the usual drawling tone, his stick and knife, which had been drawn forth + again from his pocket, in which he had deposited them in crossing from the + farm-house, affording him his usual amusement, but nothing, of course, was + elicited beyond what has already been related. Whether any one had been + killed in the house, or the guns merely discharged to frighten the + fugitive, or that the reports had proceeded from the fishing party that + had been sent for, with a view to alarm the Indians, and deter them from + the commission of outrage, were surmises that severally occurred to + Captain Headley, but without enabling him to arrive at any definite + opinion. That there was cause for apprehension, there was no doubt. The + appearance of a band of strange Indians in the neighborhood, however small + in number, dressed in their war-paint, gave earnest of coming trouble, not + only through their own acts, but through the influence of example on the + many other tribes whom they had been accustomed to look upon as friends + and allies. In the midst of these reflections arose a feeling of + self-gratulation that he had preserved that discipline and strict + attention to duty, which, he knew, that all must now admit to have been + correct, and which, if any difficulty did occur, could not fail to prove + of the utmost importance. + </p> + <p> + His first consideration now was the safety of the small fishing party, to + which allusion has more than once been made in the preceding pages, and + which it was a source of satisfaction to him to recollect were, in + accordance with an order never departed from on these and similar + excursions, furnished with the necessary arms and ammunition, although + only in their fatigue dress. + </p> + <p> + “Mr. Elmsley,” he said turning to that officer, who stood waiting his + orders, “who commands the fishing party?” + </p> + <p> + “Corporal Nixon, sir,” replied the lieutenant, at once entering into his + motive for the inquiry, “a brave, but discreet soldier, and one who, I am + sure, will evince all necessary resolution, should he see anything of + these Indians. The men who are with him are also fine young fellows, and + among our best shots.” + </p> + <p> + “I am glad to hear this,” was the rejoinder, “but still, twelve Indians + firing from the woods upon half their number in an open boat, and taken by + surprise, would, I fear, render the activity, courage, and skill of these + latter but of little avail. My hope is, that Corporal Nixon may see + nothing of them, but that, on the contrary, if he has been apprised by the + boy, as the fellow says he was to be, of their presence at Heywood's farm, + he will make his way back without stopping, or at least, use every + precaution to conceal himself, until he can drop down under cover of the + darkness.” + </p> + <p> + “What, sir,” said the lieutenant, with a surprise he could ill conceal, + “would you desire him not to afford the necessary succor to Mr. Heywood, + if, indeed, he should be in time to render any service?” + </p> + <p> + “Mr. Elmsley,” remarked his captain, somewhat sternly, “my sympathy for + the fate of those at the farm, is, perhaps quite as strong as yours, but I + have a higher stake at issue—a higher object than the indulgence of + personal sympathy. I can ill afford, threatening as appearances are at + this moment, to risk the lives of six men, the best you say in the fort, + out of the very small force at my disposal. Nothing must be left undone to + secure their safety. Order a gun to be fired immediately from the southern + bastion. It will be distinctly heard by the party, and if not already + apprised of the existing danger they will at once understand the signal. + Moreover the report may have the effect of alarming the savages.” + </p> + <p> + Lieutenant Elmsley withdrew to execute the order, and soon after the dull + booming of a cannon was heard reverberating throughout the surrounding + woods, and winding its echoes along the waters of the narrow and tranquil + Chicago. So unusual an event as this excited a good deal of speculation, + not only among the inmates of the Fort, but among the numerous friendly + Indians encamped without, who, wholly unacquainted with the cause of the + alarm, were, by the strict orders of Captain Headley, kept ignorant of the + information of which Ephraim Giles had been the bearer— + </p> + <p> + That night there was a more than usual vigilance exercised by the + sentinels, and although the rest of the garrison were exempt from + extraordinary duty, the watchful and anxious commanding officer slept not + until dawn. + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0003" id="link2HCH0003"> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER III. + </h2> + <p> + At a distance of about two miles above Heywood's farm, and on the southern + branch of the Chicago, which winds its slightly serpentine course between + the wood and the prairie. There was at the period of which we treat, a + small deep bay formed by two adjacent and densely wooded points of land, + in the cool shades of which the pike, the black bass, and the pickerel + loved to lie in the heat of summer, and where, in early spring, though in + less numbers, they were wont to congregate. This was the customary fishing + spot of the garrison—six men and a non-commissioned officer, + repairing there almost daily, with their ample store of lines and spears, + as much, although not avowedly, for their own amusement, as for the supply + of the officer's table. What remained, after a certain division among + these, became the property of the captors, who, after appropriating to + themselves what was necessary for their next day's meal, distributed the + rest among the non-commissioned, and men of the company. As the season + advanced, and the fish became more plenty, there was little limitation of + quantity, for the freight, nightly brought home, and taken with the line + and spear alone, was sufficient to afford every one abundance. In truth, + even in the depth of winter, there was little privation endured by the + garrison—the fat venison brought in and sold for the veriest trifle + by the Indians—the luscious and ample prairie hen, chiefly shot by + the officers, and the fish we have named, leaving no necessity for + consumption of the salt food with which it was but indifferently stored. + </p> + <p> + On the day on which our narrative has commenced, the usual fishing party + had ascended the river at an early hour, for the newness of the season and + the shortness of the days rendered it an object that they should be on the + accustomed haunt as soon as possible. They had left the Fort at daylight, + passing Heywood's farm at the moment when, for the purpose of foddering + the cattle on the opposite bank, he, with the boy Wilton, was crossing to + the very canoe in which Ephraim Giles afterwards made his escape—the + latter with the Canadian, being engaged in felling trees higher up the + river. + </p> + <p> + Arrived at the little bay to which we have just adverted, the boat was + fastened to the gnarled trunk of a tree, which projected over the deep + water at the nearest point, and the party, taking with them their fishing + rods, baits, and haversacks, but leaving their spears and muskets in the + boat, dispersed themselves at short distances along the curve that formed + the bay, which, however, was not more than three hundred yards in extent, + from point to point. + </p> + <p> + When they first cast their lines into the water, the sun's rays were + clearly visible through the thick wood in their rear. The early morning, + too, had been cold—almost frosty—so much so, that the wild + ducks, which generally evinced a good deal of shyness, NOW, seemingly + emboldened by the briskness of the atmosphere, could be seen gliding about + in considerable numbers, about half a mile below them; while the fish, on + the contrary, as though dissatisfied with the temperature of their + element, refused to do what the men called “the amiable,” by approaching + the hook. Their occupation had been continued until long past mid-day, + during which time not more than a dozen fish had been taken. Vexed at his + ill luck, for he had not had even a nibble, one of the men flung his rod + upon the bank, impatiently, and then, seating himself on the projecting + root of a large tree, declared it was all nonsense to play the fool any + longer, and that the most sensible thing they could do, was to take their + dinners—smoke their pipes—and wash the whole down with a + little of the Monongahela. + </p> + <p> + “I say, Collins,” remarked the corporal, good-naturedly, “we shall have + poor fare for the officers' mess, let alone our own, if we all follow your + example, and give up so soon. But, as you say, it's time to have some + grub, and we'll try our luck afterwards.” + </p> + <p> + “Rome wasn't built in a day,” said the man who had been fishing next to + Collins, and drawing in his line also, “we've a good many hours left yet.” + </p> + <p> + Following the recommendation of the corporal, the rest of the party sat + down on the edge of the bank, and, opening their haversacks, produced each + his allowance of corn bread and venison, or salted pork, after dispatching + which, with the aid of their clasp knives, they took a refreshing “horn” + from the general canteen that Collins carried suspended over his shoulder, + and then drew forth and lighted their pipes. + </p> + <p> + As the latter puffed away with a vigor that proved either a preoccupied + mind, or extreme gratification with the weed, he cast his eyes carelessly + down the stream, where a large description of duck, called by the French + natives of the country, the cou rouge, from the color of their necks, were + disporting themselves as though nothing in the shape of a fire arm was + near them—now diving—now rising on their feet, and shaking + their outstretched wings, now chasing each other in limited circles, and + altogether so apparently emboldened by their immunity from interruption, + as to come close to the bank, at a distance of little more than fifty + yards from the spot where he sat. + </p> + <p> + “It's very ridiculous,” he at length remarked, pouring forth at the same + time, an unusual volume of smoke, and watching the curling eddies as they + rose far above his head—“it's very ridiculous, I say, the captin's + order that we sha'nt fire. Look at them ducks—how they seem to know + all about it, too!” + </p> + <p> + “By gosh!” said another, “I've a good notion to fetch my musket, and have + a slap into them. Shall I, corporal?” + </p> + <p> + “Certainly not, Green,” was the answer. “If it was known in the Fort I had + permitted any of the party to fire, I should be broke, if I did'nt get + picketed for my pains, and none of us would ever get out again.” + </p> + <p> + “No great harm in that, either,” said the man who had made the novel + observation that Rome had not been built in a day. + </p> + <p> + The corporal looked sharply at the last speaker, as if not fully + comprehending his meaning. + </p> + <p> + “Jackson means no great harm if we never got out again,” interposed + Collins, “and I think as he does, for I see no fun in rowing four or five + miles to fish, and scarcely getting a sight of one.” + </p> + <p> + “Well, but Collins, that's not always our luck. I'm sure we've had sport + enough before. It must be because the weather's rather cold today, that + the fish won't bite.” + </p> + <p> + “It's of no use his grumbling, Philips,” remarked Corporal Nixon, “we're + here, not so much for own sport as on a duty for the garrison. Let me hear + no more of this, Collins.” + </p> + <p> + “Well, corporal that's true enough,” said Green, “but dash me if it isn't + temptin' to see them fellows there stealin' upon us, and we lookin' on, + and doin' nothin'.” + </p> + <p> + “What fellows do you mean?” inquired the corporal, suddenly starting to + his feet, and looking down the river. + </p> + <p> + “Why, them ducks to be sure, see how they come sailin' up to us, as if + they knowed all about the captin's order—no jumpin' or friskin' now, + but all of a heap like.” + </p> + <p> + “Yes, but I say, what's that black looking thing beyond the ducks?” asked + one who had not hitherto spoken, pointing his finger. + </p> + <p> + “Where, where, Weston?” exclaimed one or two voices, and the speakers + looked in the direction indicated. + </p> + <p> + “Hang me if it isn't a bear,” said Collins in a low, anxious tone; “that's + the chap that has sent the ducks so near us. Do let me have a crack at + him, corporal. He's large enough to supply us all with fresh meat for + three days, and will make up for the bad fishing. Only one shy, corporal, + and I engage not to miss him.” + </p> + <p> + Sure enough, there was, in the centre of the stream, a dark object, nearly + half a mile distant, which all joined in pronouncing to be a bear. It was + swimming vigorously across to their aide of the river. + </p> + <p> + “I think we might take him as he lands,” observed Green. “What say you, + corporal; I reckon you'll let us try THAT, if you won't let us fire?” + </p> + <p> + “Stay all where you are,” was the reply. “I can manage him myself with a + spear, if I can only be in time before he reaches the shore. If not, it's + no matter, for I won't allow a trigger to be pulled.” + </p> + <p> + Corporal Nixon was a tall, active, strong-limbed Virginian. He soon + cleared the space that separated them from the boat, and jumping to the + stern, seized one of the fishing spears, and then moved on through: the + wood that densely skirted the bank. But he had not been five minutes gone + when he again made his appearance, not immediately by the half-formed path + he had previously taken, but by a slight detour to the rear. + </p> + <p> + “Hist, hist,” he said in an audible whisper, as soon as he saw that he was + perceived, motioning at the same time with his hand to enjoin silence, and + concealment. Then, beckoning to Weston to join him; he again moved along + the path with the light tread of one who fears to alarm an object + unconscious of interruption. + </p> + <p> + All had the sense to understand that there was some good reason for the + caution of the corporal, and with the exception of Weston, who had + promptly obeyed the signal, busily, but silently resumed their morning's + occupation. + </p> + <p> + First, a quarter of an hour, and then minute after minute passed slowly + away, yet there was no sign of the return of their companions. What could + be the meaning of this? If the bear had not proved to be too much for + them, they ought to have killed him, and rejoined them before this. + Curiosity, nay, apprehension finally overcame the strong sense of + obedience to orders, which had been literally drilled into them, and they + all, at the suggestion of Green, dropped their rods on the bank, and moved + cautiously in the direction that had been taken by the corporal and + Weston. Great, however, was the surprise of Collins, then a little in + advance, when, on nearing the spot where the boat lay moored, he beheld, + not those of who they were in search, but a naked, and hideously painted + savage, in the very act of untying the rope by which the skiff was + fastened to the knotted and projecting root of the tree. Sensible that + there was impending danger, although he knew not of what precise kind, + inasmuch as there was no Reason to apprehend anything hostile from the + Indians, with—all of whom around the fort, they had always been on + friendly terms, he sprang forward to arrest the movement. But the distance + was several rods, and the savage, alarmed by the rustling made among the + foliage and brushwood in his rear, now put his shoulder to the boat, and, + in the next instant would have had it far across this stream, had not a + hand suddenly protruded from beneath the hollow clump of earth on which + the tree grew, grasped him firmly by the ankle, even while in the act of + springing into the forcibly impelled skiff. In a moment or two, he + grappled tightly with his hands upon the bow of the boat, but, finding the + pressure on his imprisoned limb too great for resistance, he relinquished + his hold, falling upon his face in the water, from which he was dragged, + although without violence, by Corporal Nixon, who had emerged from his + hiding-place. + </p> + <p> + When the Indian was suffered to rise, there was a threatening expression + on his countenance, which, not even the number of those by whom he was now + surrounded could check, and he made an involuntary motion of his hand to + his scalping knife, the only weapon with which he was armed, that lay in + the sheath dangling from his girdle. Seeing, however, that there was no + hostile disposition manifested by the party, he speedily relinquished his + first impulse, and stood upright before them with a bold, but calm look. + </p> + <p> + “What you want with boat?” asked the corporal, almost involuntarily, and + without the slightest expectation that his question would be understood. + </p> + <p> + “Me want 'em cross,” replied the Indian, pointing to the opposite woods. + </p> + <p> + “But why you come in bear skin?” and, in his turn, the corporal pointed + with his finger in the direction in which the supposed bear had been seen. + </p> + <p> + “Ugh!” grunted the savage doggedly, finding that he had been detected in + his disguise. + </p> + <p> + “What nation you?—Pottawattamie?” + </p> + <p> + “Wah! Pottawattamie!” + </p> + <p> + “Curious enough,” pursued the corporal, addressing himself to his + comrades. “I don't half like the look of the fellow, but I suppose it's + all right. We musn't offend him. You chief?”, he continued, pointing to a + large silver medal suspended over the breast of the athletic and + well-proportioned Indian. + </p> + <p> + “Yes, me chief. Pottawattamie chief,” and he made a sign in the direction + of the Fort, near which the encampment of that tribe lay. + </p> + <p> + “You friend, then?” remarked the corporal, extending his hand. + </p> + <p> + “Yes, me friend,” he answered promptly, brightening up and taking the + proffered hand; “you give 'em boat?” + </p> + <p> + “Do you see any thing green in my eye?” asked the Virginian, incapable, + even under the circumstances, of repressing the indulgence of his humor. + </p> + <p> + But the party questioned, although speaking a little English, was not + sufficiently initiated in its elegancies to comprehend this; so, he merely + answered with a “ugh!” while the greater portion of the men laughed + boisterously, both at the wit of the corporal, and at the seeming + astonishment it excited. + </p> + <p> + This mirth by no means suited the humor of the Indian. He felt that it was + directed towards himself, and again he stood fierce, and with a dilating + frame before them. + </p> + <p> + Corporal Nixon at once became sensible of his error. To affront one of the + friendly chiefs would, he knew, not only compromise the interests of the + garrison, but incur the severe displeasure of the commanding officer, who + had always enjoined the most scrupulous abstinence from any thing + offensive to them. + </p> + <p> + “I only meant to say,” he added, as he again extended his hand. “I can't + give 'em boat, White chief,” and he pointed in the direction of the Fort, + “no let me.” + </p> + <p> + “Ugh!” exclaimed the Indian, his stern features again brightening up with + a last hope. “'Spose come with Injin?” + </p> + <p> + For a moment or two, the corporal hesitated whether or not to put the man + across, but when he reflected on the singular manner of his advent, and + other circumstances connected with his appearance among them, his + customary prudence came to his aid, and while avoiding all ground for + offence by his mode of refusal, he gave him peremptorily to understand + that there was an order against his suffering the boat to leave its + present station. + </p> + <p> + Again the countenance of the Indian fell, even while his quick eye rolled + incessantly from one to the other of the group. “You no give 'em boat—Injin + swim,” he at length observed. + </p> + <p> + “Just as you please,” answered corporal Nixon. “By and bye, sogers go to + the Fort—take Injin with 'em.” + </p> + <p> + “Wah! Injin cross here,” and as he spoke, he sprang again to the bow of + the boat, and at a single bound cleared the intervening space to the very + stern. + </p> + <p> + Several heavy splashes in the water.—a muttered curse from the + corporal—some confusion among his men, and the savage was seen + nearly half-way across the river, swimming like an eel to the opposite + shore. + </p> + <p> + “Damn the awkward brute!” exclaimed the former, angrily. “How many muskets + are there overboard, Jackson?” + </p> + <p> + “Only three—and two cartouch boxes.” + </p> + <p> + “ONLY three indeed! I wish the fellow had been at old Nick, instead of + coming here to create all this confusion. Is the water deep at the stern?” + </p> + <p> + “Nearly a fathom I reckon,” was the reply. + </p> + <p> + “Then, my lads, you must look out for other fish to-day. Jackson, can you + see the muskets at the bottom?” + </p> + <p> + “Not a sign of them, corporal,” answered the man, as lying flat on the + boat, he peered intently into the water. “The bottom is covered with + weeds, and I can just see the tails of two large pikes wriggling among + them. By Gemini, I think if I had my rod here, I could take them both!” + </p> + <p> + “Never mind them,” resumed the corporal, again delivering himself of a + little wit; “muskets will be of far more use to us just now than pikes. We + must fish them up—there will be the devil to pay if we go home + without them.” + </p> + <p> + “Then there's no other way than diving for them,” said Jackson, still + looking downwards. “Not even the glitter of a barrel can I see. They must + have buried themselves in the weeds. I say, Weston,” slightly raising his + head and turning his face to the party named, “You're a good diver?” + </p> + <p> + “Yes, and Collins is better than me.” + </p> + <p> + “Well then, here's at it,” resumed Jackson, rising and commencing to + strip. “It's only by groping and feeling that we can find the arms, and + when once we've tumbled on 'em, it will be easy enough to get 'em up with + one hand, while we swim with the other. We must plunge here from the + stern,” he added, as the men whom he had named jumped on board and + commenced stripping themselves. + </p> + <p> + “How came the Injin to knock the muskets overboard, Corporal?” inquired + one of the party who had not yet spoken—a fat, portly man, with a + long hooked nose, and a peaked chin. + </p> + <p> + “I'm dashed,” replied Nixon, “if I can tell myself, though I was looking + at him as he jumped from one end of the boat to the other. All I know is, + the firelocks were propped against the stern of the boat as we placed + them, with the backs of the cartouch boxes slung under the ramrods, and I + suppose, for I don't know how else it could be done, that instead of + alighting on the seat, he must have passed it, and putting his foot on the + muzzles, tipped them with the weight of his body, head over heels into the + water.” + </p> + <p> + “Corporal,” Ventured Collins, as he removed his last garment, “you asked + that painted chap if he saw anything green in your eye. Now, that's as it + may be, but hang me, if it wasn't a little green to take him for a + Pottawattamie?” + </p> + <p> + “And how do you know he was'nt a Pottawattamie? Who made you a judge of + Indian flesh?” retorted the corporal, with an air of dissatisfaction. + </p> + <p> + “Didn't he say he was, and didn't he wear a chiefs medal?” + </p> + <p> + “Say? Yes, I'll be bound he'd say and wear anything to gull us, but I'm + sure he's no Pottawattamie. I never seen a Pottawattamie of that build. + They are tall, thin, skinny, bony fellows—while this chap was + square, stoat, broad-shouldered, and full of muscle.” + </p> + <p> + Corporal Nixon pondered a little, because half-convinced, but would not + acknowledge that he could have been mistaken. “Are you all ready?” he at + length inquired, anxious, like most men, when driven into a corner on one + topic, to introduce another. + </p> + <p> + “All ready,” answered Jackson, taking the first plunge in the direction in + which he knew the muskets must have fallen. + </p> + <p> + Before following his example, the others waited for his report. This was + soon made. He had got hold of one of the muskets, and partly lifted it + from its bed, but the net-work of strong weeds above it, opposing too much + resistance, he had been compelled to quit his hold, and came to the + surface of the water for air. + </p> + <p> + “Here's for another trial,” shouted Collins, as he made his plunge in the + same direction. In a few seconds he too, reappeared, bearing in his right + hand, not a firelock, but the two missing cartouch boxes. + </p> + <p> + “Better luck next time,” remarked corporal Nixon. “I think my lads, if two + of you were to separate the weeds with your hands, so as to clear each + musket, the other might easily bring it up.” + </p> + <p> + The suggestion of the corporal was at once acted upon, but it was not, + until after repeated attempts had been made to liberate the arms, from + their Web-like canopy, that two were finally brought up and placed in the + boat. The third they groped for in vain, until at length, the men, + dispirited and tired, declared it was utterly useless to prosecute the + search, and that the other musket must be given up as lost. + </p> + <p> + This, however, did not suit the views of the correct corporal. He said, + pointedly, that he would almost as soon return without his head as without + his arms, and that the day having been thus far spent without the + accomplishment of the object for which they were there, he was determined + to devote the remainder to the search. Not being a bad diver himself, + although he had not hitherto deemed it necessary to add his exertions to + those of his comrades, he now stripped, desiring those who had preceded + him to throw on their shirts and rest themselves for another plunge, when + he should have succeeded in finding out where the missing musket had + lodged. + </p> + <p> + “What's that?” exclaimed Jackson, pointing to a small, dark object, of a + nearly circular shape, which was floating about half way between the + surface of the place into which the divers had plunged, and the weeds + below. + </p> + <p> + His companions turned their eyes in the direction indicated, but, almost + immediately after Jackson had spoken, it had disappeared wholly from view. + </p> + <p> + “What did it loot like?” asked the corporal. + </p> + <p> + “It must have been a mush rat,” returned Jackson, “there's plenty of them + about here, and I reckon our diving has disturbed the nest.” + </p> + <p> + Corporal Nixon now took his leap, but some paces farther out from the + shore than his companions had ventured upon theirs. The direction was the + right one. Extending his arms as he reached a space entirely free from + weeds, his right hand encountered the cold barrel of the musket, but as he + sought to glide it along, in order that he might grasp the butt, and thus + drag it endwise up, his hand disturbed some hairy substance which rested + upon the weapon causing it to float slightly upwards, until it came in + contact with his naked breast. Now, the corporal was a fearless soldier + whose nerves were not easily shaken, but the idea of a nasty mush rat, as + they termed it, touching his person in this manner, produced in him + unconquerable disgust, even while it gave him the desperate energy to + clutch the object with a nervous grasp, and without regard to the chance + of being bitten in the act, by the small, sharp teeth of the animal. His + consternation was even greater when, on enclosing it within his rough + palm, he felt the whole to collapse, as though it had been a heavy + air-filled bladder, burst by the compression of his fingers. A new + feeling-a new chain of ideas now took possession of him, and leaving the + musket where it was, he rose near the spot from which he first started, + and still clutching his hairy and undesirable prize, threw it from him + towards the boat, into the bottom of which it fell, after grazing the + cheek of Collins. + </p> + <p> + “Pooh! pooh! pooh,” spluttered the latter, moving as if the action was + necessary to disembarrass him of the unsightly object no longer there. + </p> + <p> + A new source of curiosity was now created, not only among the swimmers, + but the idlers who were smoking their pipes and looking carelessly on. All + now, without venturing to touch the loathsome looking thing, gathered + around it endeavoring to ascertain really what it was. “What do you make + of the creature?” asked corporal Nixon, who, now ascending the side of the + boat, observed how much the interest of his men had been excited. + </p> + <p> + “I'm sure I can't say,” answered Jackson. “It looks for all the world like + a rat, only the hair is so long. Dead enough though, for it does not budge + an inch.” + </p> + <p> + “Let's see what it is,” said the man with the long hooked nose, and the + peaked chin. + </p> + <p> + By no means anxious, however, to touch it with his hands, he took up the + spear and turned over and over the clammy and motionless mass. + </p> + <p> + “Just as I thought,” exclaimed the corporal, with a shudder, as the weapon + unfolding the whole to view, disclosed alternately the moistened hair and + thick and bloody skin of a human head. + </p> + <p> + “Gemini,” cried Jackson, “how came this scalp here, it has been freshly + taken—this very day—yet how could it get here?” + </p> + <p> + “Depend upon't,” said Green, “that chief that was here just now, could + tell somethin' about it, if he had a mind.” + </p> + <p> + “Then he must have had it in his breech-cloth,” remarked the corporal + seriously, for not a rag besides had he about him. “No, no it couldn't be + him, and yet it's very strange.” + </p> + <p> + “Of course it couldn't be him,” maliciously interfered Collins, who had so + far conquered his first disgust, as to take the object of discussion into + his own hands, “for you know he was a Pottawattamie, and therefore + wouldn't scalp for the world.” + </p> + <p> + “But whose can it be?” resumed Jackson, “and how did it get here, I am + sure its that of a boy.” + </p> + <p> + “Could it have floated here from the farm?” half questioned Green + musingly. + </p> + <p> + “Somethin' struck me like shots from that quarter, about an hour before + the Injin swam across, and dash me, now I recollect it, I'm sure I heard a + cry, just after the corporal left us to go after that bear.” + </p> + <p> + “Nonsense,” said the Virginian, “how could it float against the stream, + and as for the shots you think you heard, you most have taken Ephraim + Giles's axe blows for them. Besides, you couldn't hear shots at that + distance. If you did, it most be from some of the hunters.” + </p> + <p> + “But the cry, corporal,” urged Jackson, “what say you to the cry Green + says he heard when you left us?” + </p> + <p> + “All stuff; did anybody else hear it besides Green, you were all sitting + on the bank with him?” + </p> + <p> + No one answering in the affirmative, Corporal Nixon declared the thing to + be impossible, or he should have heard it too; nor could he see what + connection there was between that cry—supposing there had been one—and + the facts that had come immediately under their own observation. + </p> + <p> + “Hist,” interrupted Collins, placing one hand upon the speaker's shoulder, + and with the other directing his attention to what, now seen by the whole + of the party, was ill calculated to re-assure them. + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0004" id="link2HCH0004"> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER IV. + </h2> + <p> + Stealthily gliding through the fresh and thinly foliaged wood, that + skirted the opposite shore, yet almost concealed from view, Corporal Nixon + now beheld the crouching forms of several armed Indians, nearly naked, and + evidently in war costume. They were following the serpentine course + necessitated by the interposing trees, and seeking cautiously to establish + themselves behind cover on the very verge of the bank. + </p> + <p> + “Back men for your lives, there's nothing friendly there,” exclaimed the + Virginian the moment that his glance had taken in the scene, “out with the + arms, and divide the dry ammunition. Collins, you are a smart fellow, do + you and Green set to work and light a fire, but out of sight, and dry the + muskets as fast as you can. There are twelve pounds in each of the five + remaining cartouch boxes, these will do for a spell. Jackson, Philips, + tree yourselves, while Cass lies flat in the stern, and keeps a good look + out on the devils, without exposing himself. Now, my lads, do all this + very quietly, and as if you didn't think there was danger at hand. If they + see any signs of fear, they will pitch it into you directly. As it is, + they are only waiting to settle themselves, and do it at their leisure.” + </p> + <p> + “Pity they don't make a general of you, corporal,” remarked Collins, as he + proceeded quietly with Green to the execution of the duty assigned to + them. “I guess Washington himself couldn't better command a little army. + Is your battle order finished, general?” + </p> + <p> + “None of your nonsense, master Collins, this is no time for jesting. Go + and dry these arms, and when you have them so that they can send a bullet + from their throats, join Jackson and Philips in covering the boat. Weston + and I will take up our first station.” + </p> + <p> + And in less time than we have taken to describe the cause of the alarm, + and the instructions given in consequence, the men had hastened to execute + the several duties assigned to them on shore, while Cass remained, not + only with a view of showing the Indians that the boat was not wholly + unguarded, but to be enabled to inform his comrades, who could distinctly + hear him without rendering any particular elevation of the voice + necessary, of any important movement on the part of the former. This + quietude of arrangement on the part of Corporal Nixon had, seemingly, been + not without effect. It was evident that the Indians had no suspicion that + they had been seen, and even when the men coolly quitted the boat, they + showed no impatience indicative of an impression that the party were + seeking to shield themselves from an impending danger. + </p> + <p> + “This silence is strange enough,” said the corporal to his companion, + after they had been some minutes secreted in the cavity from which the + departure of the Indian with the boat had been arrested. “I almost wish + they would fire a shot, for that would at once tell us how to act, and + what we are to expect, whether they are friendly Indians or not.” + </p> + <p> + But no shot was fired, and from the moment when the men quitted the boat, + and took up their positions, everything had continued silent as the grave + on the opposite shore, and not the vestige of an Indian could be seen. + </p> + <p> + “But for that scalp,” again remarked the corporal, “I should take the + party to have been friendly Indians, perhaps just returned from a buffalo + hunt, and come down to the water to drink. They are surely gone again.” + </p> + <p> + “Look there,” said Weston, in a subdued tone, while he placed his hand on + the shoulder of his superior, as both lay crouched in their hiding-place, + “look there, corporal,” and he pointed with his finger to the opposite + bank. “Do you see that large, blackish log lying near the hickory, and + with its end towards us?” + </p> + <p> + “I do—what of it?” + </p> + <p> + “Well, don't you see something crouching like between the log and the tree—something + close up to both. See! it moves now a little.” + </p> + <p> + Corporal Nixon strained his gaze in the direction indicated, but was + obliged to admit that, although he distinctly enough saw the log and the + tree, he could not discern any between thing them. + </p> + <p> + “NOW, do you see it?” again eagerly inquired Weston, as, at that moment, + the same animal was seen to turn itself within the very limited space + which had been indicated. + </p> + <p> + “Yes, I see it now,” replied the Virginian, “but it's as likely to be a + hog as a man, for anything I can make of that shape; a hog that has been + filling his skin with hickory nuts, and is but now waking out of his + sleep. Still, as the Injins were there just now, it may be that if they're + gone, they've left a spy behind them. We'll soon know how matters stand, + for it won't do to remain here all night. Cass,” addressing the man in the + boat who was seated low in the stern, only occasionally taking a sly peep, + and immediately withdrawing his head, “place your cap on the rudder, and + lie flat in the bottom. If they are there, and mean to fire at all, they + will try their hands at THAT.” + </p> + <p> + “I hope they are good marksmen, corporal,” replied the man, as raising his + right arm, he removed his forage cap and placed it so that the upper half + only could be seen. “I've no great fancy for those rifle bullets, and give + them a wide berth when I can.” + </p> + <p> + “Now are you convinced?” asked Weston, addressing the corporal, as both + distinctly saw the object upon which their attention had been anxiously + fixed, raise his head and shoulders, while he deliberately rested his + rifle against the log on his right. + </p> + <p> + “Close down, Cass—don't move,” enjoined the Virginian; “the bait has + taken, and we shall have a shot presently.” + </p> + <p> + Two almost imperceptible jets of spiral smoke, and crack, crack, went two + rifles, while simultaneously with the report, fell back into the boat, the + perforated forage cap. Both balls had passed through it, and lodged in the + heart of the tree to which the skiff was moored, and behind which Jackson + and Philips had taken their stand. + </p> + <p> + Evidently believing that they had killed a man, the whole of the band, + hitherto concealed behind logs and trees, now rose to their feet, and + uttered a fierce and triumphant yell. + </p> + <p> + “Devilish good firin', that,” remarked Green, whose face had been touched + by a splinter of bark torn from the tree by one of the balls. + </p> + <p> + “Don't uncover yourselves, my lads,” hastily commanded the corporal; “all + the fellows want now is to see us exposed, that they may have a crack at + us.” + </p> + <p> + “We've dried the muskets after a fashion,” said Collins, as he now + approached Jackson and Philips. “Give us a cartridge, and let's see if we + can't match the varmint at that sort of work.” Then, having loaded, he, + without asking the corporal's permission, leaned his musket against the + tree, and taking a steady aim at the man who had fired from the point + first noticed by Weston, drew the trigger. + </p> + <p> + The shot had evidently taken effect, for two other Indians were now seen + going to the assistance of their comrade, whom they raised from the ground + (where all had secreted themselves after the yell), and hurried to the + rear. + </p> + <p> + A loud cheer burst from the lips of Collins, which was answered + immediately by the whole of the savages, who, from various contiguous + points, sprang again to their feet, and vociferating the war-whoop, dashed + into the river nearly up to their necks, seemingly thirsting to overcome + the only obstacle which prevented them from getting at their desired + victims. + </p> + <p> + But, at the very moment, when several of them were holding their rifles + aloft with their right hand, securing their powder-horns between their + teeth, while Corporal Nixon issued to his men injunctions, not to pull + another trigger until the savages should begin to swim, to the + astonishment of all, came the sullen and unusual booming of the cannon + from the Fort. + </p> + <p> + For a moment, the men, taking their eyes off the sights of their muskets, + listened attentively for a repetition of the shot, but no second report + reached their ears. + </p> + <p> + “That,” said Green, “was a warnin' for us.” + </p> + <p> + “It was,” observed the corporal. “Had the danger been THERE, they would + have fired again. Depend upon it, my lads, there's more going on about + here than we think. So don't throw away your ammunition. Every bullet you + send must tell!” + </p> + <p> + “Well, we can but sell our scalps as dearly as possible,” interposed + Collins, who had again loaded, and was now in the act of raising and + supporting his, musket against the tree. “But look—see how the + fellows are stealing off?” + </p> + <p> + “Don't fire, then, don't fire,” hastily enjoined the corporal. “If they + will go quietly, let them. We must not lose our time dallying here, but + make our way back to the Fort. That gun was meant to recall us, as well as + to warn us, and luckily it has frightened the Indians, so they won't care + to attack us again.” + </p> + <p> + Meanwhile the band of Winnebagoes, obeying, as it seemed, the command of + their leader, whom Collins swore he could identify from his figure, even + at that distance, to be the man who had attempted to carry off the boat, + quitted the river for the cover of the woods, and, after an earnest + consultation, retreated slowly in the direction of the prairie, without + clamor of any description. + </p> + <p> + “Well rid of them, if they are gone,” exclaimed the corporal, not a little + relieved by their departure. “We must keep a sharp look out though, and + see if they return.” + </p> + <p> + “How many of them are there?” asked Jackson; “can you give a guess, + Collins?” + </p> + <p> + “About a dozen I should say—indeed I counted as many as they passed + through the small patch of clearing made by Eph. Giles's axe.” + </p> + <p> + “Can they have started for the farm?” observed the corporal musingly; “if + so, my lads, we had better get away as soon as possible, for there they + will find canoes to cross.” + </p> + <p> + “Why, sure they can swim across well enough. The river is not so wide as + to prevent them from doing it on a pinch,” remarked Philips. + </p> + <p> + “Of course they can,” answered Collins, “but not without having their + rifles as well soaked as our muskets were a little while ago. I say, + corporal, I understand now the trick of that cunning chief. He jumped upon + the arms purposely to overturn them into the river, when he found he + couldn't get the boat, and all our firelocks over with him.” + </p> + <p> + “Yes, that WAS a trick,” remarked Jackson, “but, corporal, you havn't told + us how the dickens that fellow came there, instead of the bear you went to + spear.” + </p> + <p> + “There is no time to talk about it, seriously rejoined the Virginian. Some + night when we are on guard, I will tell you what little I know. At present + let us see to getting back to our post. Collins, you are the crack shot of + the party, are you loaded?” + </p> + <p> + “I am, corporal,” returned the man somewhat self-sufficiently, “have you + got another Injin for me to sink. If so, just point him out, and if this + good barrel of Uncle Sam's don't do his job in no time, I'll give up all + claim to having hit the first fellow.” + </p> + <p> + “Not just yet,” answered his superior, “but hear my orders. You'll follow + the path along the bank, and move along carefully, until you reach + Heywood's stacks. Conceal yourself behind one of them, until we come down + with the boat, and keep a sharp lookout on all that you see passing in and + round the farm. Now remember, Collins, not a shot, unless it be to save + your life, or else you will get us all into a scrape.” + </p> + <p> + “Never fear me, General Nixon, and he touched his cap with all the respect + he would have accorded to an officer of that rank. I brought one of the + imps down, and that, I reckon, is nearly as good work for one day, as + filling the old boat with fish, or having a slap at them ducks, as I + wanted this morning. But now I'm off, if I see anything shall I halloo + out, and let you know there's danger?” + </p> + <p> + “Not by a long chalk,” returned the corporal. “All I want you to do is to + keep your tongue in your head and your eyes open. If you see anything to + alarm you, come back quietly and let us know. We shall be moving down + close to the bank of the river; and now start.” + </p> + <p> + Collins threw his musket to the trail, and advanced cautiously, though + fearlessly, along the scarcely perceptible pathway—interrupted, at + every third or fourth step by creeping vines that protruded from the + earth, and rendered it necessary, in order to prevent his tripping, that + he should raise his feet somewhat in the manner of a horse with the + string-halt. + </p> + <p> + He had not proceeded half a mile, when, at an angle of the ill-defined + path, formed by a point where the river was the narrowest, he was started + at the sight of a human body lying across his course, evidently on its + face, though the head was concealed from view by the trunk of a large tree + that bordered upon the road. His first impulse was to turn back and + acquaint the corporal with what he had discovered; but a few minutes of + reflection satisfying him of the ridicule he should incur in reporting, + without being able to state with accuracy on WHAT, he boldly advanced. On + approaching it, he found that the body was lifeless, while from the red + and scalpless head, previously hidden from his view, were exuding gouts of + thick blood that trickled slowly over the pale features of a youth of + tender age, the expression of which had been worked up into an intensity + of terror, and there remained. At a few paces from the head, and close + upon the edge of the bank, lay a dressed bear skin which had evidently + been saturated with water, but was now fast drying in the air and what + little sunlight was occasionally thrown upon it, through the dense + branches of the forest. + </p> + <p> + There are situations in which the mind is moved to do that from which in + cooler moments it would shrink with disgust. It chanced that Collins had + retained the scalp so singularly found at the bottom of the river, by + Corporal Nixon, and this circumstance at once determined him. + </p> + <p> + Instead of hastening by an object so appalling, Collins rested his musket + against a tree, and taking the scalp from between the ramrod and the + stock, where he had introduced it, knelt by the body, and spreading out + the humid skin to its fullest extent, applied it to the bleeding + excavation. As he had suspected, they corresponded exactly, making all due + allowance for the time they had been separated, and he had no longer a + doubt that the mutilated boy was Mr. Heywood's help, Wilton. A much more + important discovery than this, however, resulted from his vain endeavor to + recognise the boy from his features, they were so contracted by terror, as + has already been said, and so covered with blood as to be + indistinguishable. But on turning him upon his back, and passing his hands + over his face, Collins was surprised to find that there was not that icy + chill which he had expected, but on the contrary the faint warmth that + indicates suspended, animation; and deeper yet was the gratification of + the rude soldier, when, on opening the shirt and placing his hand on the + heart of the boy, he felt an occasional spasmodic pulsation, denoting that + life was not utterly extinct. + </p> + <p> + With an eagerness to preserve life, strongly in contrast with his recent + exultation in destroying it, his anxiety for the recovery of the boy was + almost paternal. Fortunately the latter part of the day had been free from + the chilliness of the morning, so that, although the naked skull must have + been some hours exposed, the comparatively bland state of the atmosphere + gave fair earnest that the brain itself, even if affected, had not + sustained a mortal injury. Spreading wide the scalp in his open palm, + Collins now breathed heavily upon it, until it attained what he conceived + to be the necessary warmth, when gently applying it to the denuded crown, + to which he fitted it as well as he could, he passed his handkerchief, + which he had removed from his throat, over it, and under the chin of the + boy in such a manner as to prevent the chill of the approaching night from + affecting the injured part. This done, he poured through his closed lips a + few drops of whisky from the canteen, and then raising him gently on his + left shoulder, he rose from his stooping posture, and seizing in his right + hand his musket, which he continued at the trail, pursued his route to the + haystacks as directed. + </p> + <p> + In the meantime, Corporal Nixon, with the remainder of the fishing party, + was slowly descending the river, hugging the eastern shore as closely as + possible, in order that, if attacked suddenly, they might, on the instant, + leap into the river, and covering themselves by the boat, fight their + enemies at less disadvantage. The corporal himself and Weston kept a + vigilant look out, the one at the bow, the other at the stern, while the + four remaining men, Jackson, Philips, Green, and Cass pulled so + noiselessly that the dip of their oars, and their unavoidable jar in the + row-locks, could not be heard at a distance of more than ten yards. At + this slow rate much time was necessarily consumed, so that it was quite + dark when they reached the traverse opposite the farm, where Ephraim Giles + had crossed some hours before, and whither Collins had been dispatched to + make observations. + </p> + <p> + The patience of the latter had been much tried, for it seemed an age had + elapsed before his comrades made their appearance. The sun was just + setting as he reached the innermost haystack, and his anxiety for his + charge had become intense. Seeing the canoe drawn up on the beach, and the + paddles in it, he had a strong inclination to cross and procure some + efficient relief for the insensible boy, but the silence that reigned + around the dwelling awed him, and he checked the natural impulse. Not a + soul was to be seen, not a voice to be heard, not even the barking of Loup + Garou, the bleating of a sheep, or the lowing of an ox. What could this + mean? and was the fate of the boy connected with that of the other inmates + of the farm? If so, where were they? + </p> + <p> + Another consideration induced Collins to suppress his first impulse, and + that was the apprehension that his strange charge would be detained by Mr. + Heywood, when his only chance of recovery lay in the speedy examination, + and dressing his injuries by the surgeon of the garrison. There was no + alternative then, but to wait patiently for the arrival of the boat into + which the boy could be placed; and so conveyed to the fort. Meanwhile, as + the night air was becoming chill, and a slight fog rising from the water, + the considerate soldier did all he could to shield his protege from their + pernicious effect. Strewing on the ground a few armfuls of hay, taken from + the nearest of the stacks, around which the hungry cattle now gathered, + eager for their food, he extended on it the yet inanimate form of the + youth, embracing the body in order to impart to it the benefit of animal + heat and in this position, his head being slightly raised, eagerly + endeavored to discern through the darkness not only what might be seen on + the opposite shore, but the approach of the party in the boat. + </p> + <p> + The sun had now been down some time, and so dark was it that, in that + narrow space, obscured by the blending shadows of the tall forests on + either shore, it was difficult, at five yards distance, to make out + anything on the water, unaccompanied by light or sound. This silence was + anything but agreeable to Collins, whose imagination, excited by the later + occurrences of the day, was filled with, strange misgivings, as he looked + in vain for the customary lights in the farm-house. The fishing party had + never been out so late, and yet, at the first fall of darkness, they had + been accustomed to see the place exhibiting at least one light; and the + absence of this now caused Collins heartily to wish himself in the boat, + and safely moored under cover of the fort. Not that the soldier was + influenced by the apprehension of personal danger, but because the deep + gloom, the solitude and silence of the scene, coupled with his + newly-awakened interest in the almost corpse that lay in close contact + with his person, impressed him with a sort of superstitious feeling, not + at all lessened by the knowledge that his only companion, at that moment, + belonged rather to the grave than to the upper earth. + </p> + <p> + At length his anxiety was relieved. The sound of the oars, cautiously + pulled, faintly met his ear, and then the boat could be indistinctly seen + approaching the canoe. To this succeeded a low call uttered by the + corporal. Collins replied in a similar tone, and then bearing the body of + the boy, still enveloped in the bear skin, he in less than a minute, + rejoined his party. + </p> + <p> + The astonishment of the latter may be conceived on beholding so unexpected + a sight, nor was their feeling of awe diminished when their comrade had + briefly related what had occurred since he left them. + </p> + <p> + “Strange enough, this,” remarked the corporal musingly; “stranger still, + there's no light in the house. It's neither too early nor too late for + that. I'll tell you what, my lads, if any thing has happened we must know + the worst—it will never do to go back to the Fort, without being + able to give some notion of what took place under our very noses.” + </p> + <p> + “What would Mr. Ronayne say, if we did?” added Jackson. + </p> + <p> + “Yes! and what would that sweet young lady, Miss Heywood, think of us, if + we returned without giving some good news of her father. Why she never + would look upon us kindly again.” + </p> + <p> + “Right, Philips,” said Weston, “and I'm sure I'd rather offend the captain + himself, any day, than do anything to displease her. God grant we bring + her no bad news.” + </p> + <p> + “Amen,” said the corporal, gravely, for he, like Collins, had some strong + misgivings, arising naturally from the utter darkness and silence that + continued to prevail in and around the farm-house. “Are you all loaded? + Look to your primings, but make no noise. Somebody must take charge of the + beat though. Who volunteers to remain, while the rest follow me to the + house?” + </p> + <p> + “I do—I'll remain,” said Collins, “one of you can take my musket.” + </p> + <p> + “What, Collins, do you shirk the thing,” sneered the man with the long + nose and the peaked chin; “have you had enough to-day, or do you fear the + ghost of the fellow you knocked over?” + </p> + <p> + “I fear neither man or ghost, as you well know, Nutcrackers,” warmly + rejoined Collins, “but I take it, there's no great courage in making a + fuss about going where there's no enemy to be found. If there has been + danger in that quarter, I take it, it's passed, and as somebody must stop + in the boat, why 'not me as well as another?” + </p> + <p> + “Just so,” said the corporal. “Cass, this is no time to run your rigs. You + see well enough that Collins wishes to stop behind, on account of the boy + he hopes to bring to life. Little chance of that, I fear, but if he thinks + so, it would be unchristian to disappoint him. And now push off, but make + no noise.” + </p> + <p> + The order was obeyed. In a few minutes the bow of the boat touched the + landing-place, when all but Collins, who was at the helm, slipped + noiselessly ashore. The corporal repeated his instructions—how to + act under emergency and if separated—and moved along the path + leading to the house. Meanwhile Collins pulled back into the stream, and + remained stationary in the centre. + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0005" id="link2HCH0005"> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER V. + </h2> + <p> + The farm-house was, as we have said, of very rude construction—such + a one as could only spring up in so remote a region, and among so sparse a + population. With the exception of the roof, the frame-work of which had + been covered with raw buffalo hides, it was built wholly of rough logs, + notched at the ends in a sort of dove-tail fashion, and when not lying + closely, filled in with chunks of wood, over which a rude plaster of mud + had been thrown, so that the whole was rendered almost impervious to + water, while it ran little risk from the agency of fire. It had two rooms + on the ground floor—one smaller than the other, used as a dormitory, + and containing all the clothes or “traps,” as they designated them, of the + household. The other served as eating-room, parlor, and kitchen, and + extended over, at least, three-fourths of the area. It was provided with + two doors—one facing the river and close to the partition which + divided the rooms—the other occupying a remoter position to the + rear. The windows of this apartment were two in number, and, equidistant + from the doors, were considerably elevated above the floor. These + apertures had been formed by simply sawing a few of the logs, so as to + complete squares, into which were fitted rude sashes, each containing four + small panes of a greenish, and by no means, transparent glass, and + connected by strong leathern hinges. In winter the necessary warmth was + afforded, by shutters put up and barred from within. The southern gable or + dormitory, was provided in the centre with one window of similar size and + construction. The upper floor, a sort of granary and depot for the + provisions of the family, was ascended by means of a ladder, and through a + square aperture just large enough to admit with ease the body of a man. + </p> + <p> + There was, in rear of the house, a rather extensive corn-field, and beyond + the northern gable, where the chimney stood, an orchard yet in its + infancy, but promising future abundance, while at the opposite, or south + end of the building, a large but very highly cultivated garden, was now + undergoing the customary spring process of digging and manuring, and + indeed on that very morning, Mr. Heywood had been busily engaged in this + occupation with the boy Wilton, his men being employed, the one in field + labor, the other as we have seen, in chopping wood. + </p> + <p> + In the rear of the garden, and opposite to the corn-field, from which it + was separated by a road leading to the wood, was a tolerably sized barn, + likewise constructed of rude logs, not, however, filled in. The lower part + of this was used as a stable; the upper or loft, roofed with bark, + contained the preceding year's unhusked crop from the corn-field, while + contiguous to it, and to the rear, was another oblong square building, + constructed in the same manner, but without loft. This, partitioned and + covered simply with unhewn logs, served not only as a pen for sheep and + pigs, but as a roasting-place for the feathered portion of the stock. + </p> + <p> + The orchard on the one side, and the garden on the other, extended to the + bank of the river—a zig-zag, or snake-fence separating them from the + road, in the centre of which, and at about ten feet from the door of the + dwelling, rose a majestic walnut tree then in early blossom. Immediately + beyond this tree, was a low enclosure which intersected the road, passing + across from the kitchen-garden to the orchard, and forming the only court + or yard upon the premises. + </p> + <p> + When Corporal Nixon, with his little party, had cautiously advanced some + few paces towards the house, he caused them to separate, Cass and Jackson + leaping the fence which bounded the orchard, and Green and Philips that of + the garden, while he himself, with Weston, pursued the pathway in front. + The better to be prepared for any sudden attack, bayonets had been quietly + fixed, and the firelocks at the full cock, carried at the trail—this + latter precaution after the detached files had crossed the fences. + </p> + <p> + The night, as has already been said, was very dark, and each succeeding + minute seemed to increase the obscurity, so that it was rather from their + familiarity with the ground, than from any clear indication of correctness + of course, that the little band were enabled to preserve their necessary + unity. At length the tall shadows of the walnut tree came suddenly upon + the sight of the corporal, but so completely absorbing was the darkness in + the heavier gloom, that, without being aware of it's proximity, he + stumbled against the low and slight enclosure, which, yielding to the + impetus of his motion, feeble even as that was, caused him to fall forward + on his face, his musket dropping from his grasp without, however, going + off. + </p> + <p> + A low growl from a dog succeeded, and before the Virginian could even make + the attempt to rise, the animal had sprang upon, and fastened his teeth + into his shoulder, shaking him so violently, that it was not until Weston, + who had now crossed the enclosure, came up to his assistance, guided by + the sound of the struggle, that the dog could be made to relinquish his + hold. + </p> + <p> + “Loup Garou—Loup Garou, old fellow, what's the matter with you,” + said the latter coaxingly, as he caressed the neck of the dog, which he + had identified, and now sought to appease. + </p> + <p> + Evidently recognising a friend in the utterer of his name, the animal + turned suddenly around, licked the hand of Weston, and then sent forth a + long and piteous howl. + </p> + <p> + “Mercy, what is that?” suddenly exclaimed the corporal, who having + regained his legs and musket, had moved on a pace or two. + </p> + <p> + “Where! what?” asked Weston, coming up to his side. + </p> + <p> + In the darkness before them, there was a deeper darkness that bore the + indistinct appearance of a human form, lying in a stooping posture close + to the trunk of the tree. + </p> + <p> + A vague presentiment of the truth flashed upon the mind of the Virginian, + who enjoining silence on his companion, advanced close to the object, and + laid his hand upon it. There could be no longer a doubt. The blanket coat, + and woollen sash, which he first touched, and then the shoe pack, told him + in unmistakable language that it was Le Noir, the Canadian owner of the + dog. He shook him, and twice, in a low voice called him by name. But there + was no answer, while the body stiff and motionless, fully revealed the + fate of the unfortunate man. + </p> + <p> + Meanwhile, Loup Garou, which had followed, squatted himself at the head, + which was hanging over the front of what they knew, from its handles and + the peculiar odor, exhaling from it, to be a wheel-barrow filled with + manure, and then commenced licking—moaning at the same time in a low + and broken whine. + </p> + <p> + “What can the dog mean by that?” whispered Weston. + </p> + <p> + “Don't you hear him licking his dead master's face, and telling his sorrow + in his own way,” answered the corporal as, in order to assure himself, he + dropped his hand to the mouth of the dog; but no sooner had he done so, + than he drew it suddenly back with a shudder of disgust and hastily wiped + it, clammy with the blood that yet trickled from the scalped head of the + murdered man. + </p> + <p> + A low whistle was here given on the left, and a few yards above, that + startled the Virginian, for it was the signal agreed upon if anything + suspicious, should be noticed by the other parties. He promptly answered + it in a different call, and in another minute Green and Philips had joined + him. “What have you seen?” he inquired, not regarding the exclamation of + surprise of the new comers, at the unexpected sight before them. + </p> + <p> + “We've seen nothin' its so dark,” answered Green, “but unless the cattle + have got into the garden, there's somethin' else movin' there. Philips and + I listened after we heard the dog howl the first time, for we could hear + as if somethin' like steps were stopped suddenly when he moaned the second + time we listened again, and thought the same thing.” + </p> + <p> + “They couldn't be cattle,” added Philips, “for the cattle are all kept on + the other side.” + </p> + <p> + “Only the young stock, and them as ain't used about the farm,” remarked + Weston. + </p> + <p> + “Well, but what kind of steps were they?” eagerly questioned the corporal, + whose imagination was filled not more with the danger that seemed to be + near them, than with the censure of himself he feared he should incur, on + his return to the fort, for having subjected the party to risk. “Surely + you can tell between the tread of cattle and the steps of men.” + </p> + <p> + “I should say they, weren't the steps of cattle; they were too light for + that. Though they couldn't help crushin' the dry sticks and rubbish they + couldn't help seein' lyin' in the way. Don't you think so Philips?” + </p> + <p> + “I did, corporal, and so sure did I guess them to be no cattle that it was + me that whistled.” + </p> + <p> + “Then there's no use in going farther,” remarked the Virginian gravely. + “Even if we get to the house, we can't see anything in it for the + darkness, and the poor fellow shows plain enough that it's to use looking + out to save Mr. Heywood or Ephraim Giles. Come, my lads, we must get back + to the boat, and down stream as quick and as quiet as we can.” + </p> + <p> + Giving his own low whistle of recall, he was answered from the opposite + direction, and in a few minutes Cass and Jackson made their appearance. + </p> + <p> + These latter were, briefly questioned whether they had seen anything, and + great was the anxiety of all when it was known that they had also heard in + the orchard but in a fainter manner, what had attracted the attention of + Green and Philips in the garden. + </p> + <p> + “Why didn't you give the signal then, as directed?” + </p> + <p> + “Because,” answered Cass, “We weren't quite sure about it, and feared the + whistle might tell the Injins, if any were near, our whereabouts.” + </p> + <p> + Scarce had this explanation been given, when the attention of all was + arrested by a loud clear shout of the corporals' name, evidently uttered + by Collins. + </p> + <p> + “Into the house—into the house,” exclaimed the same voice. “The + Injins are creeping up to you.” + </p> + <p> + As these words came ringing upon the silence of the night the dull steps + in rapid advance through the two enclosures were now distinctly heard, + while the flash of a gun fired in their rear, lighted up the forms of + three or four savages, gliding up to them by the pathway by which the + corporal had come. + </p> + <p> + The danger was imminent, the necessity for securing the important position + imperative, and without waiting for the order of their superior, or even + uttering a word, the whole of the party, acting upon the caution of + Collins, made a rush towards the front entrance of the house, which they + gained at the very moment when the rattling of the snake-fences, and the + total overthrow of the slight enclosure, announced that their enemies were + thus near in pursuit. + </p> + <p> + Fortunately the door was wide open, so that they had all passed in, when + the Indians on either flank, as though by previous arrangement, poured in + their cross fire, towards that common centre, without, however, striking + anything but the logs. + </p> + <p> + Terrific and continuous yells succeeded, and well was it that, with cool + promptitude, the corporal had sought, and found behind the door, where he + knew they were usually kept, the strong bars, three in number, that + secured the heavy panels, for as many of the Indians as could find room to + act together, now applied their shoulders to the frame with such violence, + that but for those timely safeguards, it must have yielded. During more + than five minutes they persevered in their efforts, the men waiting + anxiously in attitude of preparation for the result, when all at once they + ceased, and their footsteps were heard cautiously retiring. + </p> + <p> + “Quick, look to the back-door, two of you,” commanded the corporal in an + eager, but low tone, “they are going round; there, if that is not secured + we are lost.” + </p> + <p> + Green and Philips sprang forward towards the point indicated, but the + latter in his excitement stumbled heavily against something, and fell at + his length upon the floor, exclaiming: “I've fallen over a dead man, and + am half drowned in his blood.” + </p> + <p> + His companion who had escaped this obstruction, had scarcely time to + assure the corporal that the back door was already barred, a fact which he + had discovered by dint of feeling, when the latch was first heard gently + tried, then the door violently assaulted. Another loud and angry yell from + the Indians announced their disappointment, then several shots were fired + at the door, and two or three balls could be heard dropping and rolling + upon the floor, after having passed through the heavy planks. + </p> + <p> + “Safe enough now for a while, my lads,” said the corporal exultingly, “and + we can have, a little breathing time. Who's got the means of striking a + light, that we may see where we are, and what we're about?” + </p> + <p> + “I have,” answered Green, as taking a flint, steel, and tinder from his + pocket, he, with a couple of strokes, ignited the latter, and approached + the hearth, which the faint light from the burning “punk” enabled him to + reach. The fire had long since gone out, but the crisp and blackened + embers, soon grew under the care of the soldier into light sufficient to + render objects in the apartment gradually more and more distinguishable. + </p> + <p> + While this process was going on, the rest, leaning on their muskets, were + anxiously grouped around the spot where Philips had fallen. At first, only + the outline of a man of large stature and proportions could be seen lying + in a cramped position, as if produced by some strong convulsive agony, and + then when the fire began to kindle and crackle, the dress could be + distinguished, and then as the light grew brighter, the scalpless head, + and then the marked and distorted features of the murdered master of the + house, who lay in a pool of blood that slowly trickled along the crevices + of the floor. His hands were firmly clenched upon the barrel of a rifle + which had been broken off at the stock, that now lay a few yards beyond, + while the features, sternly set in death, bore a mingled expression of + defiance and resolution. A cut, as from a tomahawk had laid open his left + temple, while on several parts of his body could be seen thick + encrustations of blood that had exuded through the rent clothing, marking + the seat of several stabs and gunshot wounds. It was evident that Mr. + Heywood had not lost his life without a desperate, struggle, for + independently of the testimony afforded by his broken rifle, which he + seemed to have used with fierce determination, the heavy table had been + overthrown, and the few articles of necessary furniture in the room + evidently displaced. + </p> + <p> + “What a tale, this, to carry back,” gravely remarked Weston. “I wouldn't + take the corporal's stripes to-morrow, and be the first man to tell Miss + Heywood of it.” + </p> + <p> + “Supposing we get back at all,” said Cass. “Though we're safe enough for + the present, I've no notion these devils will let us off go soon.” + </p> + <p> + “There's no great danger now,” interrupted the corporal. “I defy them, if + they're not stronger than we saw them this morning, to get into the house, + with six good firelocks to defend it.” + </p> + <p> + “But they may set fire to it, and burn us out,” persevered the + apprehensive man with the hooked nose and the peaked chin; “I've heard of + those things before.” + </p> + <p> + “Burn your granny out, Nutcrackers; look at them logs well, and say if it + would'nt take hell-fire itself to burn 'em through in a month, but + corporal, had'nt we better divide the ammunition. We don't know, as Cass + says, what the imps are about, and what trouble they may give us yet.” + </p> + <p> + “Right, Green, there's nothing like being on the sure side, and so, my + lads look to the pouches. Weston, there's a candle in that stone bottle on + the shelf—light it, and put it on the table as soon as you have got + that on its legs again.” + </p> + <p> + The examination was soon made. Each small cartouch box, expressly made for + light excursions, contained, with the exception of the single cartridge + which Collins had fired, the usual allowance of fifteen rounds. Two of + these however—those of Green and Philips—had been so saturated + by long immersion in the water, that they were wholly unserviceable. They + were therefore emptied and dried, and the deficiency supplied from the + pouches of their comrades, thus leaving about a dozen charges to each man. + </p> + <p> + “A small stock of ammunition, this, I guess, to stand a long siege on an + empty belly,” drawled forth Cass. + </p> + <p> + “Just like you—always croakin',” sneered Green, “and always thinking + of your belly. Why man, you've more ammunition there, I take it, than ever + you'll fire away in your life.” + </p> + <p> + “And if we haven't enough,” said the corporal, going to, and taking down + and shaking a powder horn, which hung suspended from the wall, that had + evidently been overlooked by the Indians, “here are a dozen more charges + at least, and the balls of the cartridges have not, I take it, lost their + power to drill a hole into a fellow because they've been considerably well + ducked. But hark! what noise is that—listen!” + </p> + <p> + A low, grating sound, as of some heavy body rubbing against the ground, + was now audible at short intervals, to seemed to proceed from the southern + gable—but not a voice was heard. From the moment when they had + uttered their cry of disappointment, on finding the back entrance secured, + the Indians had preserved the utmost silence. + </p> + <p> + Suddenly a yell, pealed from the direction of the river, caused them for + the first time to revert to the exposed position of the unfortunate + Collins. + </p> + <p> + “Poor fellow,” said Green, dashing away a tear. “I wish he was with us. + Somehow or other, I feel as if we should all have a better chance in a + fight, were that lad in the middle of it.” + </p> + <p> + “We shall never see him more!” gravely observed the Virginian; “That shot + fired just after he warned us, did his business, depend upon it, and if + that one didn't, it is not likely the blood-hounds would let him off after + robbing them of their prey: no, no, poor Collins has lost his life in + saving us.” + </p> + <p> + Again the yell was repeated, and from the same quarter. The corporal + sprang to the ladder which communicated with the loft, and having placed + it under the window on the front, hastily ascended and looked out, for no + one had hitherto thought of closing an opening, from which no danger was, + seemingly, to be apprehended. + </p> + <p> + The darkness which had been so excessive at the moment of their entrance, + had greatly diminished—so much so, that he could trace the forms of + two or three of the warriors who were stooping low, apparently engaged + with some object lying on the very bank of the river. + </p> + <p> + “Scalping and mutilating the poor fellow, no doubt,” he muttered fiercely + to himself, “but here goes to revenge him!” + </p> + <p> + Forgetting his usual prudence, he, in the strong excitement of the moment, + drew up the butt of his musket to his shoulder, and as well as his cramped + position would permit, covered one of the savages, but while in the very + act of pulling the trigger, they all fell prostrate, and the bullet + whizzed harmlessly over them. In the next instant a ball, aimed at + himself, and fired from another quarter, passed through the window, + grazing the shoulder slightly bitten by Loup Garou, and lodged in the + opposite logs of the room. A third loud yell followed as the corporal drew + in his head and disappeared from the window. The Indians evidently thought + he had been hit, and thus gave utterance to their triumph. + </p> + <p> + “There's that grating sound again,” remarked Weston. + </p> + <p> + All now listened, and heard much more distinctly than before the peculiar + sound. Then followed a scratching and bumping of something heavy against + the end of the house. + </p> + <p> + “I have it,” said the Virginian. “They've dragged the ladder from the + barn, and are trying to fix it under the bedroom window. Cass, do you and + Philips go in and see what they're doing. But close the door after you + that they may not pick you off by the light.” + </p> + <p> + The door was cautiously opened and again shut as soon as the men had + entered. They looked up at the window, which, in the darkness that + prevailed around, was distinctly enough visible, but although open, + nothing met their glance of a nature to startle them, nor could any + movement be heard without. + </p> + <p> + “Hold my firelock,” whispered Cass to his companion, “while I try and get + a look out. I know poor Le Noir's bed is directly under the window, and I + don't think THAT is too high, if I stand on the pillow.” + </p> + <p> + He now cautiously groped his way to the bed, on ascending which, being a + tall man, he found the top of his head to be on a level with the sill of + the window. This was not sufficient for his purpose, and he sought to + elevate himself still more. In attempting, with this view, to place + himself on the head-board, he missed his footing, and fell with some force + between the head of the bed, and the rode log wall. To his dismay, he + found that his feet had rested not upon the hard floor of the apartment, + but upon something soft and yielding, which his imagination, strongly + excited by the events of the day, led him unhesitatingly to conclude, was + the flesh of a human body. + </p> + <p> + “A light corporal—a light!” he shouted, regardless of every thing, + but his desire to release himself from his present situation. “Bring a + light. Here's a fellow, who has got hold of me by the leg!” + </p> + <p> + “Take your musket then and bayonet him,” said Philips, coolly, as he + pushed towards the struggling man the butt end of his firelock, which at + length reached his hands. At the same time, Corporal Nixon, rendered + equally imprudent by the suddenness of the demand for his presence, + entered, followed by Weston, bearing the candle. + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0006" id="link2HCH0006"> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER VI. + </h2> + <p> + Nothing can, we conceive, be in worse taste in a fictitious narrative, + than the wanton introduction of the ludicrous upon the solemn, but when in + an historical tale these extremes do occur, fidelity forbids the + suppression of the one, lest it should mar the effect of the other. Such + is the necessity under which we find ourselves. + </p> + <p> + The first act of the corporal, on seeing how matters stood, was to pull + back the bedstead behind which Cass was imprisoned, so as wholly to + uncover him and his assailant, but the surprise of all may be imagined, + when, instead of an Indian, with whom they believed him to be struggling, + they beheld an immense turkey-cock, well known to them all, which was + partly under the foot of the soldier—partly in a boarded drain or + reservoir which passed from the apartment into a large hog trough, that + lay along the wall and daily received the refuse of the various meals. The + bird, furious with pain, was burying its beak into the leg of the soldier, + while he, with the butt end of his musket aloft, and the bayonet + depressed, offered the most burlesque representation of St. George + preparing to give his mortal thrust to the dragon. + </p> + <p> + In spite of the danger by which they were beset, it was impossible for the + men to restrain the indulgence of their humor at this singular sight, nor + was the disposition at all checked, when they saw the bayonet descend and + actually transfix the intruder to the floor-causing him to droop his head, + and thus free Cass from his furious attacks. + </p> + <p> + “If that's the way you kill your enemies, Nutcrackers, we promise to eat + them up for you—as many as you like,” and as he spoke, Green + advanced and seized the dying bird by the throat; but as he pulled it + suddenly away, a dark human hand was observed to relinquish its hold of + the feet, and rapidly disappear. + </p> + <p> + The mirth of the men was now succeeded by a seriousness befitting the + occasion, for it was clear to all that this occurrence, absurd as it was, + had been the means of betraying a new plan of the enemy to get into the + house. If the drain was large enough to admit of the passage of the bird—always + remarkable for its size—it was highly possible that some of the more + slightly formed Indians, might force their way through it also. They had + evidently tried to see if it could be done—the turkey-cock having + been put forward as a “feeler,” and the necessity of either closing the + avenue, or weakening their strength by keeping a man constantly on the + watch, was now obvious. + </p> + <p> + “Find something to stop up that hole with Cass,” ordered the corporal. + </p> + <p> + “I can see nothing,” replied the other, after a few moments search, + “unless we stop it with the bedding.” + </p> + <p> + “A wise plan that. The Injins would soon set fire to it, and if they + didn't burn us out, they would soon smoke us out. Either would suit their + purpose.” + </p> + <p> + “Let him stuff it with his head, corporal,” interposed Green, “I'm sure + that's thick enough for a plug.” + </p> + <p> + “Perhaps there's a head in it already,” suggested Philips, “there was a + hand just now—the other may have followed.” + </p> + <p> + “By jingo I'll try,” returned Green, “I'd give a week's grog to be able to + prick a feller with this playthin'.” + </p> + <p> + So saying, he knelt upon the floor, and holding his musket in a horizontal + position, a few inches above it, he gave a furious thrust into the + aperture. To his astonishment, for notwithstanding his half bravado, he + had not seriously anticipated such a result, he found the advance of his + weapon slightly arrested by a yielding body, and even had not a sharp cry + of pain from the other extremity of the trough, satisfied him of the fact, + the peculiar sensation he experienced as the steel overcame the resistance + was sufficient to convince Green, little accustomed even as he had been to + bayonet men, that the bayonet had entered into some soft part of the human + body. + </p> + <p> + To the cry of the wounded man, succeeded a savage and threatening yell + from the united band, and now re-commenced the grating sound which had two + or three times before excited the conjectures of the besieged. + </p> + <p> + “Ah I yell away you devils; that's all the good you'll get,” exclaimed + Green, exulting at his success; “but don't take so tight a grip of my + bayonet. I say, Philips, lend us a hand, if I shan't lose my musket with + that fellow strugglin' like a speared Mascalinga.” + </p> + <p> + Both now pulled at the firelock, with all their strength. Suddenly the + resistance ceased, and they fell sideways on the floor, bringing the + musket with them, but without the bayonet. At the same moment a shot was + fired into the aperture, and the ball whizzing by the ear of Philips, and + passing through Green's right leg, lodged in the partition beyond. + </p> + <p> + “Stand aside, men,” shouted the corporal, “stand from before that hole, or + we shall be marks in this light for the skulking villains.” + </p> + <p> + Jackson, who had been dispatched for one of the small round hickory logs + that lay piled up in a corner near the chimney, now approached with on + that was just large enough to fit tightly in the aperture. All seized it, + and taking the precaution to keep their legs out of danger, jammed one end + into the mouth of the drain, adding afterwards a few heavy blows from the + axes of Le Noir and Ephraim Giles, which had been found in a corner of the + room. + </p> + <p> + “Now then,” said the Virginian, after having examined the small window of + the bed room, and securely fastened the shutter—“we've not much more + to fear. They're two to one its true, but I defy them to do us much harm + before daylight, when, I take it they'll be off, if not sooner.” + </p> + <p> + “Well, then, corporal,” suggested Green, “I vote that as we're pretty + safe, and have yet that piece of plunder, we set to work and cook it, for + I'm devilish hungry, and so I think we must all be, seeing as how we + hain't had a regular meal the whole day, besides if we rummage the place, + we may chance to light upon somethin' else. I see the varmint have carried + off the nice row of venison hams that used to hang up round the chimney, + but there may be somethin' in the loft.” + </p> + <p> + “No bad thought that of yours, Green,” answered the corporal, “Cass, you + killed the bird, you must pluck it and grill it.” + </p> + <p> + “That's what I call taking it sensibly,” said the latter leaning his + musket against the wall, and dragging the heavy turkey to the + kitchen-corner, where seated on the very chair on which poor Mr. Heywood + had smoked his last pipe, he commenced plucking out the feathers by + handfuls. “Let fasting without, and feasting within be the word; but its + mortal dry eating that great he turkey, without something to wash it down. + I say, Philips, you are a good hand at foraging—don't you think you + could find out a little of the Wabash there,” and he pointed to the loft. + </p> + <p> + Philips approached the ladder with the intention of making a search, but + the Virginian checked him. + </p> + <p> + “Stop a moment,” he said, “until I have had another look out in front.” + Thus saying he cautiously ascended to his former position, the view from + which was much less indistinct than before. The obscurity had, in a great + degree, passed away, so much so, that all objects within the area formed + by the enclosures of the garden and the orchard were thrown into + perceptible relief. His first thought was to cast his glance upon the + water, hoping, he scarcely knew why, that something might be seen of the + skiff which had contained the unfortunate Collins. Disappointed in that + quarter, his eye next turned upon the walnut tree, the white blossoms of + which had dropped around and upon the spot, where lay the body of the + ill-fated Le Noir, at whose head was still squatted, as when he had left + him, his faithful dog. There was much in this trait of devotion on the + part of the animal which could not fail to awaken sympathy even in the + roughest heart, and although the corporal was not particularly + sentimental, he could not but be deeply touched by the contrast forced + upon him, between the moaning animal and the wild lust for blood which + reigned in the hearts of their unprovoked assailants. His first impulse + was to call approvingly to the dog, but the next moment's reflection on + the folly of such a proceeding stifled the impulse. Then his attention was + called not only to the perfect immunity from further outrage of the victim + and his follower, but to the profound silence, and absence of danger which + seemed to exist in that quarter. That the Indians had not departed, + although they had not been heard since the yell that followed the cry + produced by the thrust from Green's bayonet, he felt confident, and it now + seemed to him that they must be directing their efforts against some other + part of the building. + </p> + <p> + No sooner had he admitted this last belief, than he again descended, and + raising the ladder himself, bore it noiselessly to the spot whence it had + been removed, then ordering the candle to be extinguished, and the embers + to be drawn together, so as to deaden the light of the fire, he with Green + and Weston crept up the ladder, Cass being left to complete the + preparation of the turkey the best way he could, while Philips and + Jackson, posted at the back and front doors, listened attentively for the + slightest sound of danger, which being heard, they were at once to warn + the party above. + </p> + <p> + When the corporal had gained the top of the ladder, Green, who was the + last, having yet his foot on the first step, the former was evidently + startled by some new danger. But just as he was in the act of springing to + the upper floor, the ladder, too frail to sustain their united weight, + snapped suddenly asunder in the middle and fell with some noise, thus + separating him from his companions. + </p> + <p> + Regardless of this and having secured his own footing, he now moved + cautiously towards the opposite end of the loft, where a small opening, + about two feet in length, and one in height, seemingly intended as a + ventilator, appeared nearly vertical to the window of the bed-room below. + Casting his glance downwards through the opening, he beheld five or six + savages standing grouped together, leaning on their guns, and apparently + watching some object above them. This, naturally, drew the corporal's + attention to the same quarter, when to his dismay he found that the long + ladder usually kept at the barn was now resting against the gable of the + house, not three feet from the right corner of the aperture, through which + he gazed. In an instant it occurred to him that this had been the work of + the Indians, and at once accounted for the grating sounds that had so + often met his ears that night. There could be no doubt that the plan of + the enemy now was to enter the roof, which could be done by removing part + of the raw buffalo hides of which it was composed. Indeed it was a slight + noise made in the direction of that very angle of the roof where the + ladder now stood, that had caught his attention on first putting his head + through the aperture while preceding his men. This had suddenly ceased at + the moment when the ladder broke and fell, nor had there been a repetition + of the sound. Still, satisfied that some discovery of the true designs of + the Indians would result from his remaining a little longer, he continued + at the opening, which was too small to betray his presence if using + precaution, while it enabled him to observe the movements of the enemy. + Soon afterwards he heard them speaking in earnest but low tones, as if + addressing somebody above them, and then a prolonged yell, which was + answered by others from the front of the house, echoed through the + surrounding forests. Even amid the horrid discord, the quick ear of the + Virginian, now painfully on the stretch, caught the same sound that had + first attracted his attention. It was exactly at the angle of the roof, + and only a pace or two from him. The peculiar noise was not to be mistaken + even by an unpractised ear. It was, evidently, that of a knife, not very + sharp, cautiously cutting through a tough and resisting leather. + </p> + <p> + The corporal became now more anxious than ever, but this feeling did not + in the slightest degree, disturb his self-possession, or cause him to + waver in the resolution he had from the first adopted. He waited + patiently, until, as he expected, he heard a corner of one of the buffalo + hides turned up, and beheld reflected, against the back-ground of light, + thus suddenly introduced, the upper part of a human being, whose shorn + head, covered on the crown with straight and slightly streaming feathers, + too plainly indicated his purpose. What a target for the bullet—what + an object for the bayonet of the soldier, who, had not prudence and + coolness interposed, had certainly used one or the other. But the + Virginian had hit upon another, and as he conceived, a better plan to get + rid of his enemy, and in his fate, of further probable annoyance from his + ferocious companions. It was not his object to let himself be seen, or + that the Indians should even suspect that they had been detected in this + new device, for he was well aware that if he fired, or used his bayonet + against the man, those below would rush up the ladder to succeed him, and + by their weight prevent the accomplishment of what he had in view; + therefore cut off as he in a measure was, from his party, it was incumbent + on him to adopt the only sure means of relief from danger, and that + without a moment of delay. + </p> + <p> + While the Indian, who finding, evidently, that the orifice he had made in + the roof was not yet large enough for his purpose, had dropped the incised + portion of the hide, and was again using his knife; the Virginian, + stooping slightly at the off-side of the window, ascertained that the feet + of the former were resting on one of the upper steps of the ladder. This + was what he desired, and all he now wanted was a hard, flat substance to + fasten on the point of his bayonet. After reflecting vainly for a few + moments how this was to be attained, he suddenly bethought him of his + thick-soled ammunition-boots. Removing one of these without noise, he + pierced the inner leather, by pressing it firmly against the point of the + bayonet, so as to secure without allowing it to pass through. Then, + cautiously protruding his musket from the opening, he slowly advanced it, + until the sole of the boot touched the frame of the ladder, not two feet + under the round on which the Indian stood. Here for a moment he allowed + the barrel, concealed by the low depending eaves, to rest against the jamb + of the aperture. His anxiety was now worked up to the highest possible + pitch, for he feared, notwithstanding his success so far, that something + might yet occur to defeat his purpose, and thus peril not only his own + life, but the lives of the whole of the party below. Three minutes he + remained in this trying position of uncertainty, which seemed to him as so + many hours. Presently, however, the Indian on the roof, having evidently + accomplished his task, and believing from the silence that had for some + time pervaded around, that no one was near him, spoke in a low tone to his + companions, who now cautiously crept towards the ladder. + </p> + <p> + This was the moment for action. The Virginian, who, although expecting + this, had watched their movements with aching interest, now summoned his + whole strength, and while the first savage below was upon the ladder, + pushed his musket with such violence against the sole, that it carried it + rapidly over the corner of the house, before the Indian could find + presence of mind to throw himself upon the roof—a sudden backward + jerk of the weapon liberated the bayonet, the extreme point of which only + had entered the wood, and as the Virginian withdrew this, he could + distinctly see the unfortunate savages fall headlong from the top of the + ladder, uttering, as both descended, a fearful cry of dismay, which was + responded to by fierce yells from the lips of their companions, who + hastened to their succor. + </p> + <p> + “Well done, that!” said the corporal, exultingly, and half-aloud to + himself, as he slapped his thigh, in a manner to denote his own + self-approval. “That's what I call doing the business as it should be + done. The attempt,” and he smiled at the conceit, “was not a bootless one + to us all, though it has been a BOOT LESS one to ME.” + </p> + <p> + To understand this facetiousness of the Virginian, it must be understood + that on withdrawing his bayonet, the boot which it had only slightly + pierced, had slipped from the weapon and fallen to the ground + simultaneously with the other heavier bodies, whose more marked sound had + absorbed its own. It therefore escaped the notice of the Indians. + </p> + <p> + “Hilloa there!” he continued in a louder key; “there's no more danger in + this quarter, my lads. Show us a light, and if Cass has that turkey ready, + we'll have some supper. For my part, I'm devilish sharp set. Here, Green, + take my musket, and give me the candle.” + </p> + <p> + Surprised at the corporal's unwonted humor, for they had been led to + apprehend, from the noise made by the falling ladder, and the excitement + evidently prevailing among the Indians, that some new act of treachery was + about to be tried by them, the men gathered underneath the opening, Green + taking his musket from the hands of the Virginian, while in return, he + mounted on one of the low chairs, and extending his arm far above, handed + him the light. + </p> + <p> + After a few minutes search, the corporal appeared again at the mouth of + the loft, not only with a demijohn half-filled with whisky, but with a + large loaf of brown bread, and part of a shoulder of dried venison, from + which nearly one-half had been chipped away in slices. This, indeed, was a + prize, and the men looked at the articles of necessary supply, as they + were successively handed down, with an earnestness which denoted, that + whatever might be their apprehensions of danger from without, they by no + means coveted fighting on an empty stomach. After having lowered the + treasures he had been so fortunate as to secure, the Virginian swung + himself down by his hands, without difficulty, upon the lower floor. + </p> + <p> + The fire had been again revived, and having ordered Jackson up into the + loft, to keep watch at the small-window, and apprise him if any attempt + should be made to replace the ladder, the corporal for the first time + lighting his pipe, sat down to ruminate on his position, and consider the + means by which the party were to be taken back to the fort. Further + serious apprehensions in regard to their safety he did not now entertain, + for baulked, as the Indians had been, in all their attempts to get into + the house, he felt persuaded that it was more with a view to annoy and + alarm, than with any hope of eventual success, that they still lingered in + the neighborhood. Had they been in a situation to continue the siege + longer than the morning, the case might have been different. But it was + obvious that in order to secure their own safety, alarmed as they most + know the governor would be at the absence of the party under his command, + they would not remain longer than daylight exposed to the chances of being + themselves closely assailed from without. + </p> + <p> + Such was the reasoning of the Virginian, whose greatest source of + discomfort now was the apprehension of serious reprimand, if not something + worse, from the austere Captain Headley, whose displeasure, he was + certain, would be so much the greater on account of the loss of the + unfortunate Collins. He looked at his watch, but to his great annoyance, + found that it had stopped, the hour-hand pointing to one o'clock. How long + it had been run down, he could not tell, but from the time which had + elapsed since their abandonment of the boat, and arrival in the house, he + did not think it could be less than four in the morning. + </p> + <p> + Desirous to satisfy himself by the appearance of the heavens, he arose, + and with the aid of Green, placed the table under the window commanding a + view of the river. This being too low, a chair was placed upon it, thus + affording the corporal the advantage of greater elevation than he had + derived from the use of the ladder itself. + </p> + <p> + Everything was again quiet. Not a sound broke the stillness, save the + howling of a few wolves, which, probably, attracted by the scent of the + human blood that had been spilt that day, and by the exposed corpse that + was now strewed with white blossoms from the tree beneath which it lay, + were, by the increasing light, indistinctly seen on the opposite shore. + But not their savage cry of hunger alone was heard. Ever and anon, in + reply to their fierce howling was heard the snappish bark of Loup Garou, + as, leaping on the body of his unconscious master, he lashed his tail, and + seemed to bid defiance to those whose errand he seemed so perfectly to + divine. + </p> + <p> + “Poor dog! you shall never want a master while I can keep you,” half + murmured the corporal, as he now turned his gaze upon the water, anxious + to see if any trace could be found there of the skiff and its missing + occupant. Nothing, however, came within his view, but just as he was + preparing to descend from the window, the outline of the boat, for from + its peculiar shape he easily identified it as their own, riveted his + attention as it passed quickly up the river, filled with seven or eight + savages in their war-dress, and having at the bow what had the appearance + of a pole, from the top of which dangled a human scalp. + </p> + <p> + “Gone at last,” he exclaimed, after a moment's pause, “but with poor + Collins' scalp along with them. Cass,” he added, as he sprang to the + floor, “if that turkey is fit to eat let's have it directly, and you, + Weston, look about and see if there is any more water to be had. Make + haste, now, for we shall have to tramp it to the fort as soon as it's + daylight. The devils are gone and carried off the boat.” + </p> + <p> + Not less anxious than himself to be once more on their way to the fort, + which some of them, on entering the house that night, had scarcely hoped + to reach alive, the men, leaning their muskets against the side of the + room, assisted in preparing the rude, but grateful meal, of which they + stood so much in need, and which was to sustain them during the + short-approaching march. The table having been placed in the centre of the + room, and on it the demijohn, and bread and venison, Green and Weston, the + latter of whom had been unsuccessful in his search for water, seized each + a leg and a wing of the ample turkey, which now denuded and disembowelled, + Cass had scientifically carved in its raw state, and held them in the + blaze of the fire, waiting patiently until the blackness of the outside + should give promise of corresponding warmth within. Its slayer held the + body of the bird over the fire in a similar manner, the poker having been + thrust into the abdomen. They all sat, or rather stood in a squatting + position with their faces to the fire. + </p> + <p> + “Well, now, I reckon we shall make six considerable shares of this,” + drawled Cass, looking fondly at the carcass, which was slowly but + temptingly spluttering before him at the fire. “Are you any ways + particular, Green?—what part suits your taste best, Weston—a + leg or a wing? For my part I always stick to the carcass.” + </p> + <p> + “Faith, and I like both, and a slice of the breast to boot. I'm just the + fellow, now the varmints are gone, that could eat all of them.” + </p> + <p> + “Yes, but you know,” returned the temporary chef de cuisine, “it must be + share and share alike—there's two legs—two wings and the + breast, and the back slit in two—that just makes six portions, and + we're six men in all.” + </p> + <p> + “Cast lots fiddlestick,” said Green, “what portion do you expect, + Nutcrackers? unless it's the neck, and the scaly part of the leg, the + Injin had hold of when you so bravely sent your bayonet through her + feathers.” + </p> + <p> + “Well, only think how cunning of the fellows,” remarked Weston, “who'd + ever have thought they would try that fashion to get in, cramming an old + turkey before them to clear the way, and get in his craw the first bullet + that might be sent.” + </p> + <p> + “Yes, and the tight grip the fellow had of him by the leg. Just look, + Green, the mark of the devil's hand may be upon him yet. It was the right + leg, and that's it you have.” + </p> + <p> + “Bosh! what do you expect me to find there but the marks of your dirty + paws while plucking him, I'm too devilish hungry for such nonsense, + Nutcrackers; but show me the Injin that would venture to touch his legs + now. If I wouldn't mark him, then my name's not Seth Green.” + </p> + <p> + Scarcely had he finished speaking, when a dark naked human hand was slowly + protruded over his shoulder, and seized not the leg of the turkey, which + Green now grasped with unconscious and convulsive energy, but a brand from + the fire. + </p> + <p> + In his terror at that strange and unexpected appearance, he dropped the + body of the bird in the glowing embers, and uttering a faint cry, turned + half round and beheld what filled him with the deepest dismay: his + companions, scarcely less terrified than himself, sprang together to their + feet, with the intention of rushing to their muskets, but all hope of + recovering them was gone. The savage who had snatched the fire was no + longer there then, but half a dozen others in their war-paint stood + between them and their firelocks. It seemed as if they were sensible that + their very silence inspired more awe and apprehension in the bosoms of + their defenceless enemies than could have done the most turbulent + expression of their triumph. They had evidently entered by the back door, + which was now quite open, and grouped around the body of Mr. Heywood, were + apparently more interested in the dead than in the living. Not a sign was + there of the corporal, and Philips stood as if paralyzed, leaning, musket + in hand, against the opposite entrance. + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0007" id="link2HCH0007"> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER VII. + </h2> + <p> + Leaving the little party in the dismay occasioned by their new position, + and that at a moment when they believed themselves secured from further + interruption or danger, we must now return to the Fort, where their + long-continued absence, coupled with the startling tidings conveyed by + Ephraim Giles, had created equal anxiety and apprehension. + </p> + <p> + It will be recollected that during the examination of the latter, Ensign + Ronayne had, after communicating with the commanding officer, suddenly + departed across the river, taking with him a few armed men. The + destination of this little party was the cottage occupied by Mrs. Heywood + and her daughter, who, with a woman servant, were the sole occupants of a + dwelling, simple in construction, but decorated, both within and without, + by the hand of good taste. It was a low, one-storied building, painted + white, with green window-blinds and shutters, and a verandah of trellis + work of the same color, that extended a few feet square round the + principal entrance. On either side, rose to the roof, on parallel lines, + and at equal distances, cords of strong twine, on which already had began + to interlace themselves, the various parasites indigenous to the soil, + which winter had robbed of their freshness, but which a southern sun was + now evidently vivifying and re-invigorating. A small garden of about + half-an-acre, surrounded by a similar trellis-work, extended equally in + front, and on the sides of the house—while the graceful form given + to the various beds, and the selection of the plants and flowers, which, + although still in their dormant state, were yet recognizable—testified + the refined taste of those who had assisted at their culture. The pathway, + which was recently gravelled from the adjacent sand-hills, ran in a + straight line from the verandah, toward the little green gate, opening on + the front of the garden, took a semi-circular sweep on either side, at + about one-third of the distance from the gate. This form had been given to + it for the purpose of affording room for the creation of a mound, on the + summit of which had been placed a small summer-house, octagon in shape, + and constructed of the same description of trellis-work. The sloping sides + of the mound itself, were profusely covered with dahlias, rhododendrons, + geraniums, and other plants of the most select kind—the whole + forming, when in bloom, a circle of floral magnificence. A short and + narrow path, just large enough to admit of the passage of one person at a + time, led to the entrance of the summer-house, which, facing the gate, was + also shaded from the light and heat of the sun's rays, by closely + interlacing vines. + </p> + <p> + At the bottom of this artificial mound, and near the pathway, a small + spud, such as is used for pruning, was stuck into some earth, newly drawn + round a splendid tiger lily, and on the handle of the spud, were loosely + thrown a white silk jacket, a blue velvet cap, and a light pink scarf—evidencing + that no ordinary gardener had been that day employed in bringing into new + life the gorgeous beauties of the variegated parterre. + </p> + <p> + “Little did I think,” mused the young officer, as, leaving his party at + the gate, and hastening towards the cottage, his eye fell upon those + articles of dress—“little did I imagine when I threw off these + things a few hours since, to obey a summons to the Fort, that on my return + to them, it would be with this heavy heart, and as the bearer of these + tidings—but I must be cautious in my disclosure. Dear girl, here she + is!” + </p> + <p> + “Why, Ronayne, what in the name of Heaven is the meaning of all this? Are + you here to take the castle by storm, with all these armed warriors? A few + hours since you were a man of peace, and now I behold in you a most + approved and valiant knight of the true American school. Sword, cap, + feather, epaulet, blue broad-cloth, and silver. Well it must be confessed + that you are not a bad imitation of a soldier, in that garb, and it is in + pity to me, I suppose, that you do not wear it oftener. But seriously, + Harry, do satisfy my curiosity, and tell me the reason of this unusual—manner + of visit!” + </p> + <p> + The question was asked playfully, but in tones replete with sweetness, by + a tall and elegantly-formed girl, who on turning the further circle of the + walk, in her approach to her favorite flower-bed, had for the first time, + beheld the young officer, and the party stationed at the gate. + </p> + <p> + “Nay, dear Maria,” returned the youth, deeply grieved at the thought of + casting a gloom over the spirits of her who thus rallied him. “I am sorry + to say my errand is not one of mere parade—I have come to announce + that which will give you pain; and but that I am charged with the + agreeable duty of making you a prisoner, I never should have had the + courage to be the bearer of the intelligence.” + </p> + <p> + Miss Heywood turned very pale, less at the words even than at the manner + of the young officer, who it was evident, felt all the weight of the task + he had undertaken. + </p> + <p> + “Ronayne,” she said, her voice suddenly assuming a rich melancholy of + intonation, in strange contrast with her first address, “there is more in + this than you would acquaint me with. But, tell me,” and she fixed her + large dark eyes on his—“tell me all. What pain is it you fear to + occasion me, and how is it connected with my being a prisoner? Ha!” and + she grasped his arm, and betrayed deep agitation—“surely nothing in + my father's conduct—” + </p> + <p> + “No, no, Maria,” returned the youth, quickly, “far from anything of the + kind, and yet it is of your father I would speak. But have you heard + nothing since I left you. Have you seen no one?” + </p> + <p> + “I have heard nothing—seen not a soul from without,” she answered, + as he tenderly pressed the hand he had taken—“But, Ronayne,” she + pursued, with melancholy gravity—“a sudden light dawns upon me—my + heart tells me that some misfortune or other has happened, or is about to + happen—you say you would speak about my father. You are the bearer + of ill-news in regard to him. Yes, I know it is so; tell me, Harry,” and + she looked imploringly up to him, “am I not right?—my father has + been attacked by Indians, and he has fallen. Oh! you do not deny it!” + </p> + <p> + “Nay, dearest Maria, I know nothing of the kind, although I will not + conceal from you that there is danger—you have guessed correctly as + to the Indians having been at the farm, but little certain is known as to + the result of their visit. That half idiot Ephraim Giles, has come in with + some wild story, but I daresay he exaggerates.” + </p> + <p> + Miss Heywood shook her head doubtingly. “You deceive me, Ronayne—with + the best intention, but still you deceive me. If you really think the + rumor be exaggerated, why your own restlessness and seriousness of manner? + Harry, this is no time for concealment, for I feel that I can better bear + the truth NOW than LATER. Do not hesitate then to tell me all you know.” + </p> + <p> + “True, my love, this is no time for concealment since such be the state of + your feelings. I was unwilling to admit my own apprehension on the + subject, fearing that you might be ill-prepared for the disclosure; but + after what you have just urged, the blow can never fall less heavily than + now. You must know, then, that a party of hostile Indians have, there is + too much reason to fear, used violence toward the inmates of the + farm-house, but to what extent we have no means of knowing; though such is + the alarm created by their presence that Headley, who you know is the very + soul of caution, has ordered every white in the neighborhood of the Fort, + to be removed for safety within its walls.” + </p> + <p> + “Would that instead of THAT,” remarked Miss Heywood, with solemnity, “he + had despatched those soldiers, whom I see there fully armed, to the rescue + of my poor father. Perhaps he might be saved yet—the house is + strong, and might be defended for some time, even by a couple of men.” + </p> + <p> + “And me at their head. Is it not so, Maria?” inquired the youth. + </p> + <p> + “Yes, and you at their head, dear Ronayne,” repeated Miss Heywood; “to no + one sooner would I be indebted for my father's safety, as no one would, I + am sure, more cheerfully attempt his deliverance.” + </p> + <p> + The young American mused a moment, and then rejoined, despondingly; “Were + these men at my disposal, Maria, how gladly would I hasten to encounter + every difficulty, the removal of which would spare your gentle bosom those + pangs; but you know Headley would never permit it. His prudence is a + mania, and even were he to yield his consent—let me not sustain you + with delusive hopes—I fear it would be too late.” + </p> + <p> + “God's will be done,” she ejaculated, as the large tears fell trickling + down her pallid cheeks, “but what will become of my poor and now nearly + death-stricken-mother, when she hears of this?” + </p> + <p> + “The blow is indeed a fearful one, but act, I pray you, with courage. + Consider, too, your own safety. No one knows the force of the Indians, or + how soon they may be here. Go in, dearest, prepare what you may more + immediately require for a few days, and my men will carry your trunks down + to the scow which is waiting to receive you.” + </p> + <p> + “And if I should consent to go, Ronayne, you know my poor mother cannot + rise from her bed. What do you propose to do with her? To remove her, and + let her know WHY she is removed, would soon finish the work her + debilitating disease has begun.” + </p> + <p> + “I have made every necessary provision,” answered the young officer, glad + to find that her thoughts could be diverted from the immediate source of + her sorrow. “Elmsley's wife, to whom I spoke a few hurried words on + leaving, is even now preparing for your temporary reception, and I have + thought of an excuse to be given to your mother. You must for once in your + life use deceit, and say that Van Vottenberg desires her presence in the + fort, because his duties have become so severe that he can no longer + absent himself to bestow upon her that professional care she so much + requires. Nay, look not so incredulous. I am aware that the pretext is a + meagre one, but I cannot at present think of a better; and in her + enfeebled state she will not dwell upon the strangeness of the plea. Go on + then, I entreat you, and desire Catherine to collect what you will want, + while my men carry to the scow such articles of furniture as will be most + useful to you in your new quarters. Quick, dear Maria, I implore you, + there has already been too much time lost, and I expect every moment an + order from Headley to return immediately.” + </p> + <p> + Sensible of a pressing emergency. Miss Heywood, with a beating heart, + regained the cottage, in which so many blissful hours had been passed + within the last two years, undisturbed by a care for the future, while the + young officer joining his men, left one to take care of the arms of the + party, and with the remainder hastened to the house making as little noise + as possible, in order not to disturb the invalid. Having chosen such + articles of furniture as he knew Mrs. Elmsley was most deficient in, and + among these a couch and a couple of easy-chairs (which latter indeed were + the work of his own hands), they were conveyed to the scow in two trips, + and then followed three or four trunks into which had been thrown, without + regard to order, such wearing apparel, and necessaries of the toilet as + the short period allowed for preparation had permitted the agitated girl + to put together. The most delicate part of the burden, however, yet + remained to be removed, and that was the invalid herself. Desiring his men + to remain without, the youth, whose long and close intimacy with the + family rendered such a step by no means objectionable, entered the + apartment of Mrs. Heywood, who had already been prepared by her daughter + for the removal, and with the assistance of Catherine raised the bed on + which she lay, and transferred it to a litter brought for the occasion. + This they carefully bore through the suite of small and intervening rooms + to the front, where two of the men relieved them, Catherine walking at the + side, and unnecessarily enjoining caution at every step. + </p> + <p> + “This is, indeed, an unexpected change, Ronayne,” said Miss Heywood, + sadly, “but this morning, and I was so happy, and now! These poor flowers, + too (for after having fastened the windows and doors of the house, they + were now directing their course towards the mound), that parterre which + cost us so much labor, yes, such sweet labor, must all be left to be + destroyed by the hand of some ruthless savage. Yet, what do I say,” she + pursued, in a tone of deep sorrow, “I lament the flowers; yes, Ronayne, + because they have thriven under your care, and yet, I forget that my + father perhaps no longer lives; that my beloved mother's death may be the + early consequence of this removal. Yet think me not selfish. Think me not + ungrateful. Come what may, you will yet be left to me. No, Harry,” and she + looked up to him tearfully, “I shall never be utterly destitute, while you + remain.” + </p> + <p> + “Bless you, thrice bless you for these sweet avowals of your confidence,” + exclaimed the youth, suddenly dropping her arm, and straining her + passionately to his heart. “Yes, Maria, I shall yet remain to love, to + cherish, to make you forget every other tie in that of husband—to + blend every relationship in that of one.” + </p> + <p> + “Nay, Ronayne,” she quickly returned, while the color mounted vividly to + her cheek, under the earnest ardor of his gaze, “I would not now unsay + what I have said, and yet I did not intend that my words should exactly + bear that interpretation—nor is this a moment—” + </p> + <p> + “But still you will be my wife—tell me, Maria?” and he looked + imploringly into her own not averted eyes. “You will be the wife, as you + have long been the friend and companion of your Ronayne—answer me. + Will you not?” + </p> + <p> + Her head sank upon his shoulder, and the heaving of her bosom, as she + gently returned his embrace, alone conveyed the assurance he desired. She + was deeply affected. She knew the ardent, generous nature of her lover, + and she felt that every word that had just fallen from his lips, tended + only to unravel the true emotions of his heart: but soothing as was his + impassioned language, she deemed it almost criminal, at such a moment, to + listen to it. + </p> + <p> + “Nay, dearest Harry,” she said, gently disengaging herself from his + embrace, “we will be seen. They may wonder at our delay, and send somebody + back from the scow. Let us proceed.” + </p> + <p> + “You are right,” replied the young officer, again passing her arm through + his own, while they continued their route, “excess of happiness must not + cause me to commit an imprudence so great, as that of suffering another to + divine the extent. Yet one word more, dear Maria! and ah! think how much + depends upon your answer. WHEN shall I call you mine?” + </p> + <p> + “Oh! speak not now of that, Ronayne—consider the position of my + father—my mother's health.” + </p> + <p> + “It is for that very reason that I do ask it,” returned the youth. “Should + Heaven deprive you of the one, as it in some degree threatens you with the + loss of the other, what shall so well console you as the tenderness of him + who is blessed with your love?” + </p> + <p> + “Hush, Harry,” and she fondly pressed his arm—“they will hear you.” + </p> + <p> + They had now approached the scow, into which the men, having previously + deposited the furniture and trunks, were preparing to embark the litter + upon which Mrs. Heywood lay extended, with an expression of resignation + and repose upon her calm features, that touched the hearts of even these + rude men. Her daughter, half-reproaching herself for not having personally + attended to her transport, and only consoled by the recollection of the + endearing explanation with her lover, which had chanced to result from her + absence, now tenderly inquired how she had borne it, and was deeply + gratified to find that the change of air, and gentle exercise to which she + had been subjected, had somewhat restored her. Here was one source of care + partly removed, and she felt, if possible, increased affection for the + youth to whose considerate attention was owing this favorable change in + the condition of a parent, whom she had ever fondly loved. + </p> + <p> + It was near sunset when Ronayne, who, with the robust Catherine, had + carefully lifted the invalid into the centre of the scow, reached the + landing-place below the Fort. Here were collected several of the women of + the company, and among them Mrs. Elmsley, who had come down to meet and + welcome those for whose reception she had made every provision the hurried + notice she had received would permit. The young officer had been the first + to step on shore, and after he had whispered something in her ear, she for + a moment communicated with the group of women—then advanced to meet + Miss Heywood, whom her lover was now handing from the scow. She embraced + her with a tenderness so unusually affectionate, that a vague + consciousness of the true cause flashed across the mind of the anxious + girl, recalling back all that inward grief of soul, which the deep emotion + of an engrossing love had for a time absorbed. + </p> + <p> + In less than half-an-hour the fugitives were installed in the council + hall, and in another small apartment, dividing it from the rooms occupied + by the Elmsleys. The ensign, having seen that all was arranged in a + suitable manner in the former, went out to the parade-ground, leaving the + ladies in charge of their amiable hostess, and of the women she had + summoned to assist in bearing the latter into the Fort. + </p> + <p> + On his way to his rooms, he met Captain Headley returning from an + inspection of the defences. He saluted him, and was in the act of + addressing him in a friendly and familiar tone, when he was checked by the + sharply-uttered remark: + </p> + <p> + “So, sir, you are returned at last. It seems to me that you have been much + longer absent than was necessary.” + </p> + <p> + The high spirit of the youth was chafed. “Pardon me, sir,” he answered + haughtily, “if I contradict you. No one of the least feeling would have + thought of removing such an invalid as Mrs. Heywood is, without using + every care her condition required. Have you any orders for me, Captain + Headley?” he concluded, in a more respectful manner, for he had become + sensible, the moment after he had spoken, of his error in thus evincing + asperity under the reproof of his superior. + </p> + <p> + “You are officer of the guard, I believe, Mr. Ronayne?” + </p> + <p> + “No, sir, Mr. Elmsley relieved me this morning.” + </p> + <p> + At that moment the last-named officer came up, on his way to the ensign's + quarters, when, the same question having been put to him, and answered in + the affirmative, Captain Headley desired that the moment the fishing-party + came in they should be reported to him. “And now, gentlemen,” he + concluded, “I expect you both to be particularly on the alert to-night. + The absence of that fishing-party distresses me, and I would give much + that they were back.” + </p> + <p> + “Captain Headley,” said the ensign, quickly and almost beseechingly, “let + me pick out a dozen men from the company, and I pledge myself to restore + the party before mid-day to-morrow. Nay, sir,” seeing strong surprise and + disapproval on the countenance of the commandant, “I am ready to forfeit + my commission if I fail—” + </p> + <p> + “Are you mad, Mr. Ronayne, or do you suppose that I am mad enough to + entertain such a proposition, and thus weaken my force still more? Forfeit + your commission if you fail! Why, sir, you would deserve to forfeit your + commission, if you even succeeded in any thing so wholly at variance with + military prudence. Gentlemen, recollect what I have said—I expect + you to use the utmost vigilance to-night, and, Mr. Elmsley, fail not + instantly to report the fishing-boat.” Thus enjoining, he passed slowly on + to his quarters. + </p> + <p> + “D—n your military prudence, and d—n your pompous + cold-bloodedness!” muttered the fiery ensign between his teeth—scarcely + waiting until his captain was out of hearing. + </p> + <p> + “Hush,” interrupted Elmsley in a whisper. “He will hear you. Ha!” he + continued after a short pause, during which they moved on towards the + mess-room, “you begin to find out his amiable military qualities, do you! + But tell me, Ronayne, what the deuce has put this Quixotic expedition into + your head? What great interest do you take in these fishermen, that you + should volunteer to break your shins in the wood, this dark night, for the + purpose of seeking them, and that on the very day when your ladye faire + honors these walls, if I may so dignify our stockade, with her presence + for the first time. Come, come, thank Headley for his refusal. When you + sit down to-morrow morning, as I intend you shall, to a luxurious + breakfast of tea, coffee, fried venison, and buckwheat-cakes, you will + find no reason to complain of his adherence to military prudence.” + </p> + <p> + “Elmsley,” returned his friend, seriously, “I can have no disguise from + you at such a moment. You know my regard for Maria Heywood, although you + cannot divine its depth, and could I but be the means of saving her + father, you can well understand the joy I should feel.” + </p> + <p> + “Certainly, my dear fellow, but you know as well as myself, that there + exists not the shadow of a hope of this. That scarecrow, Giles, + half-witted as he is, tells too straightforward a story.” + </p> + <p> + “Elmsley,” persisted his friend, “there is every hope—every + reasonable expectation that he may yet survive. Maria herself first opened + my eyes to the possibility, for, until then, I had thought as you do; and + deeply did her words sink in my heart, when she said, reproachfully, that, + instead of sending a party to escort her, it would have been far better to + dispatch them to the farm, where her father might, at that moment, be + sustaining a siege—the house being strong enough to admit of a + temporary defence, by even a couple of persons.” + </p> + <p> + “And what said you to that?” + </p> + <p> + “What could I say? I looked like a fool, and felt like a school-boy under + the iron rod of a pedagogue—but I resolved.” + </p> + <p> + “And what did you resolve, my enterprising KNIGHT errant?” + </p> + <p> + “You have just heard my proposal to the gentleman who piques himself upon + his military prudence.” returned the youth, with bitter irony. + </p> + <p> + “Yes, and he refused you. What then?” + </p> + <p> + “True, and what then,” and he nodded his head impatiently. + </p> + <p> + “You will sleep upon it, my dear fellow, after we have had a glass of the + Monongahela, and the pipe. Thus refreshed, you will think better of it in + the morning.” + </p> + <p> + “We will have the Monongahela and the pipe, for truly I feel that I + require something to soothe, if not absolutely to exhilarate me; but no + sleep for me this night. Elmsley,” he added, more seriously, “you will + pass me out of the gate?” + </p> + <p> + “Pass you out of what?” exclaimed the other, starting from the chair on + which he had thrown himself only the moment before. “What do you mean, + man?” + </p> + <p> + “I mean that, as officer of the guard, you alone can pass me through after + dark, and this service you must render me.” + </p> + <p> + “Why! where are you going? Single-handed like Jack the Giant Killer to + deliver, not a beautiful damsel from the fangs of a winged monster, but a + tough old backwoodsman from the dark paws of the savage?” + </p> + <p> + “Elmsley,” again urged the ensign, “you forget that Mr. Heywood is the + father of my future wife.” + </p> + <p> + “Ah! is it come to that at last. Well, I am right glad of it. But, my dear + Ronayne,” taking and cordially pressing his hand, “forgive my levity. I + only sought to divert you from your purpose. What I can do for you, I will + do; but tell me what it is you intend.” + </p> + <p> + “Yet, Elmsley, before we enter further into the matter, do you not think + that you will incur the serious displeasure of Military Prudence?” + </p> + <p> + “If he discovers that you are gone, certainly; and I cannot see how it can + be otherwise; he will be in the fidgets all night, and probably ask for + you; but even if not THEN, he will miss you on parade in the morning.” + </p> + <p> + “And what will be the consequence to you? Answer me candidly, I entreat.” + </p> + <p> + “Then, candidly, Ronayne, the captain likes me not well enough to pass + lightly over such a breach of duty. The most peremptory orders have, since + the arrival of this startling news, been given not to allow any one to + leave the fort, and (since you wish me to be sincere) should I allow you + to pass, it will go hard with my commission.” + </p> + <p> + “How foolish of me not to have thought of that before! How utterly stupid + to ask that which I ought to have known myself; but enough, Elmsley. I + abandon the scheme altogether. You shall never incur that risk for me.” + </p> + <p> + “Yet understand me,” resumed the other, “if you really think that there is + a hope of its proving more than a mere wild goose chase, I will cheerfully + incur that risk; but on my honor, Ronayne, I myself feel convinced that + nothing you can do will avail.” + </p> + <p> + “Not another word on the subject,” answered his friend; “here is what will + banish all care, at least for the present.” + </p> + <p> + His servant had just entered, and deposited on the mess-table hot and cold + water, sugar, lime-juice, pipes, tobacco, and tumblers; when the two + officers with Von Vottenberg who had just come in from visiting Mr. + Heywood, sat down to indulge their social humors. Whilst the latter, + according to custom, mixed the punch, which when made was pronounced to be + his chef d'oeuvre, Elmsley amused himself with cutting up the tobacco, and + filling the pipes. The ensign, taking advantage of their occupation, + indulged himself in a reverie that lasted until the beverage had been + declared ready. + </p> + <p> + The presence of the doctor, acting as a check upon the further allusion by + the friends to the topic that had hitherto engrossed their attention, the + little conversation that ensued was of a general nature, neither of them, + however, cared much to contribute to it, so that the doctor found and + pronounced them for that evening anything but entertaining companions. He, + however, consoled himself with copious potations from the punch-bowl, and + filled the room with dense clouds of smoke, that were in themselves, + sufficient to produce the drowsiness that Ronayne pleaded in excuse of his + taciturnity. + </p> + <p> + After his second glass, Elmsley, reminding the ensign that he expected him + as well as the punch-brewer to breakfast with him in the morning at eight + o'clock precisely, took his departure for the guard room, for the night. + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0008" id="link2HCH0008"> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER VIII. + </h2> + <p> + It was about seven o'clock on the morning succeeding the occurrences + detailed in the preceding chapters, that Lieutenant Elmsley waited on the + commanding officer, to relate that the fishing boat was at length in + sight. These tidings were communicated as Captain Headley was preparing to + sit down to breakfast—a refreshment, to which the fatigue of mind + and body he had undergone during the night had not a little disposed him. + True, however, to his character, he stayed not for the meal, but instantly + arose, and taking his telescope accompanied the subaltern to the flagstaff + battery, whence the best view of the river was commanded. + </p> + <p> + “Any thing to report, Mr. Elmsley; but I presume not, or it scarcely would + have been necessary for me to ask the question?” + </p> + <p> + “Nothing, sir, of any consequence,” replied the lieutenant after a + moment's hesitation, “beyond a slight altercation that took place between + a drunken Pottawattamie and the sergeant of the guard—but it was of + a nature too trivial to disturb you about.” + </p> + <p> + “What was it, Mr. Elmsley?” inquired his superior, abruptly turning to + him. + </p> + <p> + “The Indian who had probably been lying dead drunk during the day within + the Fort, and had evidently just awakened from his sleep, was anxious to + go to his encampment, but the sergeant, strictly obeying the order he had + received from me, refused to open the gate, which seemed to annoy the + Indian very much. At that moment I came up. I knew well of course that the + order was not meant to extend rigidly to our Indian friends, the great + mass of whom might be offended by the detention of one of their number, + and I desired the sergeant to pass him through. Was I right, sir?” + </p> + <p> + “Perfectly, Mr. Elmsley; we must not offend those of the Indian tribes + that are disposed to be friendly toward us, for no one knows how soon we + may require their aid. The official advices I have received not only from + Detroit but from Washington are of a nature to induce apprehension of + hostilities between Great Britain and the United States; therefore, it + would, as you justly observe, and just now particularly, be extremely bad + policy to offend those whom it is so much our interest to conciliate. + Still you ought to have reported the circumstance to me, and not acted on + your own responsibility.” + </p> + <p> + Lieutenant Elmsley bit his lip, and could scarcely control a movement of + impatience. “I am glad, however, sir,” he resumed after a pause, “that you + find no fault with my conduct; I confess I had some little uneasiness on + that score, for with you I felt that I had no right to assume the + responsibility, but I knew that you had retired to your rooms, and I was + unwilling to disturb you.” + </p> + <p> + “You ought to have known, Mr. Elmsley, that where duty is concerned I can + never be disturbed. However, no matter. What you did was correctly done; + only in future, fail not to make your report. The slightest unauthorized + step might be a false one, and that, under all the circumstances, is to be + avoided.” + </p> + <p> + Whatever the subaltern thought of the seeming self-sufficiency which had + dictated the concluding part of the lecture of the commanding officer, he + made no further observation, and both in silence pursued the remainder of + their short route to the bastion. + </p> + <p> + Many of the men, dressed and accoutred for the morning parade, which + usually took place at about nine o'clock, were grouped around, and + anxiously watching the approach of the boat, as of something they had + despaired of ever again beholding. Captain Headley drew his telescope to + the proper focus, and after looking through it a few minutes—remarked— + </p> + <p> + “Thank Heaven, all is right—they are all there, although it is quite + unaccountable to me how they could have been detained until this morning. + And, oh! it seems they have taken a heavy draught of fish, for, although I + cannot see the bottom of the boat, their feet are raised as if to prevent + crushing or injuring something beneath them. But hold! there is something + wrong, too. I do not see the usual number of muskets piled in the stern. + How can this be, Mr. Elmsley?” + </p> + <p> + “Perhaps there is not the same number of men,” suggested the lieutenant—“some + of them, for causes connected with their detention, may be coming by + land.” + </p> + <p> + “Not at all. There are seven men. I think seven men compose the fishing + party; do they not?” + </p> + <p> + “Six men, besides the non-commissioned officer; yes, sir.” + </p> + <p> + “I can make out Corporal Nixon, for he is steering and facing me, but for + the others, I do not know them well enough to distinguish. Here, Mr. + Elmsley, take the glass, and try what you can make of them.” + </p> + <p> + The lieutenant gazed through the glass a moment, and then pronounced name + after name, as the men severally came under the range of the lens. “Yes, + sir, as you say, there is Corporal Nixon steering—then, with, their + backs to us, and pulling, are first, Collins, then Green, then Jackson, + then Weston, then Cass, and then Philips. But what they have in the bottom + of the boat, for I now can see that plain enough, is not fish, sir, but a + human body, and a dog crouched at its side. Yes! it is indeed the + Frenchman's dog—Loup Garou.” + </p> + <p> + “Well, I want to know!” exclaimed Ephraim Giles, who had ascended the + bastion, and now stood amid the group of men, “I take it, that if that's + Loup Garou, his master can't be far off. I never knowed them to be + separate.” + </p> + <p> + “Yes, sir, that is certainly a dead body,” pursued the lieutenant—“somebody + killed at the farm, no doubt. Have you any orders for the direction of the + party, when they land, sir?” he inquired, as he handed back the glass to + the captain. + </p> + <p> + “Just desire the drum to beat to parade,” was the answer. “It wants only a + few minutes of guard-mounting, and by the time the men have fallen in, and + the roll is called, the boat will be here. Where is Mr. Ronayne?” + </p> + <p> + “I have not seen him this morning, sir, but believe that he is in his own + rooms. He, however, knows the hour, and doubtless will be here presently.” + </p> + <p> + “When the men have fallen in, come and report to me,” said the captain, as + he descended from the bastion, and proceeded to his own quarters, to eat + his untasted breakfast. + </p> + <p> + The lieutenant touched his cap in assent, and then, having despatched a + man with orders to the temporary drum-major, crossed over to the + apartments of the ensign, anxious not only to excuse himself for not being + able to receive his friend to his own breakfast, at the hour he had named, + but to prepare him for the reception of the body of Mr. Heywood, which he + doubted not, was that now on its way for interment at his own house. + </p> + <p> + On entering the mess-room, in which they had taken their punch, the + previous evening, everything bore evidence of a late debauch. Ashes and + tobacco were liberally strewed upon the table, while around the empty + bowl, were, in some disorder, pipes and glasses—one of each emptied + of all but the ashes and sediment—the other two only half-smoked, + half-full, and standing amid a pool of wet, which had evidently been spilt + by a not very steady hand. The windows were closed, so that the smoke + clung to what little furniture there was in the room, and the whole scent + of the place was an abominable compound of stale tobacco and strong + whisky. + </p> + <p> + A loud snoring in the room on his right attracted his attention. He knew + that it was Von Vottenberg's, and he entered to see what had kept him in + bed until that late hour. The surgeon, only half-undressed, was fast + asleep, not within, but on the outside of the bed-clothes. Somewhat + disgusted at the sight, for Elmsley was comparatively abstemious, he shook + him not very gently, when the doctor, opening his eyes with a start, + half-rose upon his elbow. “Ha!” he exclaimed, “I know you mean to say that + breakfast is waiting; I had forgotten all about it, old fellow.” + </p> + <p> + “I mean nothing of the kind,” was the reply, “but I recommend you to lose + no time in dressing and turning out. The men are already on parade, and if + Captain Headley, finding that you are absent, tends over here to inquire + the cause, I would not give much for your future chances of swallowing + whisky-punch within the walls of Chicago.” + </p> + <p> + “Eh? what! what!” spluttered the surgeon, as he jumped up, drew on his + boots, dipped his face in a basin of water, and hastily completed his + toilet. In less than five minutes he was on parade. + </p> + <p> + Meanwhile, Lieutenant Elmsley, after giving this warning, had passed again + through the mess-room, and knocked at Ronayne's door. But there was no + answer. + </p> + <p> + “Hilloa, Ronayne,” he called loudly, as he turned the handle of the latch, + “are YOU in bed too?” + </p> + <p> + But no Ronayne was there. He looked at the bed—like the doctor's, it + had been laid upon, but no one had been within the clothes. + </p> + <p> + What was the meaning of this? After a few moments of delay, he flew back + to Von Vottenberg's room, but the latter was already gone. Retracing his + steps, he met Ronayne's servant entering at the mess-room door. + </p> + <p> + “Where is your master?” he inquired. “How is it that he is not in his room—has + not been in bed?” + </p> + <p> + “Not been in bed?” repeated the lad, with surprise. “Why, sir, he told me + last night that he was very drowsy and should lie late; and, that he + mightn't be disturbed, he desired me to sleep in one of the block-houses. + I was only to wake him in time for guard-mounting, and as it wants but ten + minutes to that, I am just come to call him.” + </p> + <p> + “Clean out the mess-room directly—open the windows, and pat every + thing in order,” said the lieutenant, fearing that Captain Headley might, + on hearing of the absence of the young officer, pay his quarters a visit + in search of some clue to the cause. “I see it all,” he mused, as he moved + across the parade-ground. “He would not, generous fellow, get me into a + scrape, by making me privy to his design, and to avoid the difficulty of + the gate, has got over the pickets somewhere—yet, if so, he must + have had a rope, and assistance of some kind, for he never could have + crossed them without. Yet, where can he be gone, and what could he have + expected to result from his mad scheme? Had he waited until now, he would + have known by the arrival of the fishing-party with their sad charge, how + utterly useless was all this risk.” + </p> + <p> + “Well, Mr. Elmsley,” said the captain, who now appeared at the front of + his own door, fully dressed for parade, and preparing to issue forth in + all the stateliness of command. + </p> + <p> + “The parade is formed, sir,” remarked the lieutenant, confusedly, “but I + cannot find the officer of the guard.” + </p> + <p> + “Sir!” exclaimed Captain Headley. + </p> + <p> + “I cannot find Mr. Ronayne, sir—I have myself been over to his + quarters, and looked into his bed-room, but it is clear that he has not + been in bed all night.” + </p> + <p> + “What is the meaning of all this? Send Doctor Von Vottenberg here + immediately.” + </p> + <p> + And lucky was it for that gentleman that the officer who now desired his + attendance on the commandant had roused him from that Lethean slumber in + which he had been, only a few minutes before, so luxuriously indulging. + </p> + <p> + “Doctor Von Vottenberg,” commenced the captain, as soon as that official + made his appearance before him; “you are quartered with Mr. Ronayne. Have + you seen any thing of him last night or this morning—no evasion, + nay,” seeing that the doctor's brow began to be overclouded, “I mean no + attempt to shield the young man by a suppression of the truth.” + </p> + <p> + “I certainly saw him last night, Captain Headley, but not at a very late + hour. We took a glass or two of punch, and smoked a couple of pipes + together, but we both went to bed early, and for my part, I know that I + slept so soundly as to have heard nothing—seen nothing, until I got + up this morning.” + </p> + <p> + The doctor spoke truly as to the time of their retirement to rest, for the + ensign had left him early in the night, while he had found his way to his + own bed, early in the morning. + </p> + <p> + “The boat is nearing the landing-place, sir,” reported the sergeant of the + guard, who now came up, and more immediately addressed Lieutenant Elmsley. + </p> + <p> + This information, for the moment, banished the subject under discussion. + “Let the men pile their arms,” ordered Captain Headley; “and when this is + done, Mr. Elmsley, follow me to the landing-place.” + </p> + <p> + In a few minutes both officers were there. The boat was within fifty + yards, when the subaltern joined his captain; and the oarsmen, evidently + desirous of doing their best in the presence of the commanding officer, + were polling silently and with a vigor that soon brought it to its + accustomed berth. + </p> + <p> + “What body is that, Corporal Nixon?” inquired the latter, “and how is it + that you are only here this morning?” + </p> + <p> + “Sir,” answered the corporal, removing one of his hands from the + steer-oar, and respectfully touching his cap, “it's poor Le Noir, the + Frenchman, killed by the Injins yesterday, and as for our absence, it + couldn't be helped, sir; but it's a long report I have to make, and + perhaps, captain, you would like to hear it more at leisure than I can + tell it here.” + </p> + <p> + By this time the men had landed from the boat, leaving the Canadian to be + disposed of afterwards as the commanding officer might direct. The quick + eye of the latter immediately detected the slight limping of Green, whose + wound had become stiff from neglect, cold, and the cramped position in + which he had been sitting in the boat. + </p> + <p> + “What is the matter with this man?” he inquired of the corporal. “What + makes him walk so stiffly?” + </p> + <p> + “Nothing much the matter, captain,” was the indifferent reply. “It's only + a ball he got in his leg in the scrimmage last night.” + </p> + <p> + “Ha! the first gun-shot wound that has come under my treatment during the + three long years I have been stationed here. Quick, my fine fellow, take + yourself to the hospital, and tell the orderly to prepare my instruments + for probing.” + </p> + <p> + “Scrimmage last night; what do you mean, Corporal Nixon—whom had you + the scrimmage with?” + </p> + <p> + These remarks fell at the same moment from the lips of the commander and + those of the surgeon, the latter rubbing his hands with delightful + anticipation of the treat in store for him. + </p> + <p> + “With the Indians, captain,” replied Nixon; “the Indians that attacked Mr. + Heywood's farm.” + </p> + <p> + “Captain Headley,” interrupted the lieutenant, with unusual deference of + manner, for he was anxious that no further reference should be made to the + subject in presence of the invalids and women, who, attracted by the news + of the arrival of the boat, had gathered around, partly from curiosity, + partly for the purpose of getting their expected supply of fish, “do you + not think it better to examine Corporal Nixon first, and then the others + in turn?” + </p> + <p> + “Very true, Mr. Elmsley, I will examine them separately in the + orderly-room to see how far their statements agree; yet one question you + can answer here, corporal. You say that it is the body of Le Noir, killed + by the Indians. Where is Mr. Heywood, then?” + </p> + <p> + The generous Elmsley felt faint, absolutely sick at heart on hearing this + question; the very object he had in view in proposing this private + examination was thereby threatened with discomfiture. + </p> + <p> + “Mr. Heywood has been carried off by the Indians,” calmly replied the + corporal, yet perceptibly paling as he spoke. + </p> + <p> + “Indeed! this is unfortunate. Let the men go to their barracks, and there + remain until I send for them,” ordered the commandant. “You, corporal, + will come to me at the orderly-room, in half an hour from this. That will + be sufficient time for you to clean yourself, and take your breakfast. + None of your party, I presume, have had their breakfast yet?” + </p> + <p> + “No, your honor,” answered Green, who seemed to fancy that his wound gave + him the privilege of a little license in the presence of his chief, “not + unless an old turkey, the grandfather of fifty broods, and as tough as + shoe-leather, can be called a breakfast.” + </p> + <p> + Captain Headley looked at the speaker sternly, but took no other notice of + what he, evidently, deemed a very great liberty, than to demand how he + presumed to disobey the order of the surgeon. Then desiring him to proceed + forthwith to the hospital and have his leg dressed, he himself withdrew + after postponing the parade to one o'clock. + </p> + <p> + “And are you sure, Nixon, that Mr. Heywood has been carried off by the + Indians,” asked Lieutenant Elmsley, the revulsion of whose feelings on + hearing the corporal's answer to the question put by Captain Headley had + been in striking contrast with what he had experienced only a moment + before; “are you quite sure of this?” + </p> + <p> + The interrogatory was put, immediately after the commanding officer had + retired, doubtingly, in a low tone, and apart from the rest of the men. + </p> + <p> + “I saw them carry him off myself, sir,” again deliberately said the + corporal. “The whole of the party saw it too.” + </p> + <p> + “Enough, enough,” pursued the lieutenant, in a friendly tone. “I believe + you, Nixon. But another question. Were you joined last night by any one of + the regiment? recollect yourself.” + </p> + <p> + The corporal declaring that nothing in the shape of an American uniform + had come under his notice, since he departed from the Fort the preceding + evening, the officer next turned his attention to the boat. + </p> + <p> + “What are you fumbling about there, Collins?” he asked, rather sharply—“Why + do you not go and join your mess?” This was said as the rest of the party + were now in the act of moving off with their muskets and fishing + apparatus. + </p> + <p> + “Poor fellow!” interposed the corporal, “he is not himself to-day; but I + am sure, Mr. Elmsley, you will not be hard upon him, when I tell you that, + but for him, there wouldn't be a man of us here of the whole party.” + </p> + <p> + “Indeed!” exclaimed the lieutenant, not a little surprised at the + information; “but we shall hear all about that presently; yet what is he + fidgetting about at the bottom of the bow of the boat?” + </p> + <p> + “There's another body there, sir, besides Le Noir's. It's that of the poor + boy at Heywood's—an Indian scalped him and left him for dead. + Collins, who put a bullet into the same fellow, not an hour afterwards, + found the boy by accident, while retreating from the place where we had + the first scrimmage with the red devils. He was still breathing, and he + took every pains to recover him, but the cold night air was too much for + him, and he died in the poor fellow's arms.” + </p> + <p> + “Well, this is a strange night's adventure, or rather series of + adventures,” remarked the lieutenant half aside to himself. “Then, I + suppose,” he resumed, more immediately addressing the corporal, “he has + brought the body of the boy to have him interred with Le Noir?” + </p> + <p> + “Just so, sir, for he mourns him as if he had been his own child,” + answered Nixon, as the officer departed—“here, Loup Garou, Loup + Garou,” and he whistled to the dog. “Come along, old fellow, and get some + breakfast.” + </p> + <p> + But Loup Garou would not stir at the call of his new master. Sorrow was + the only feast in which he seemed inclined to indulge, and he continued to + crouch near the body of the Canadian as impassible and motionless as if he + was no longer of earth himself. + </p> + <p> + “Come along, Collins,” gently urged the Virginian, approaching the boat, + where the former was still feeling the bosom of the dead boy in the vain + hope of finding that life was not yet extinct. “It's no use thinking about + it; you have done your duty as a soldier, and as a good man, but you see + he is gone, and there is no help for it. By and by, we will bury them both + together; but come along now. The dog will let nobody near them.” + </p> + <p> + “Dash me, corporal, if I ever felt so queer in my life!” answered Collins, + in a melancholy tone, strongly in contrast with his habitual brusque + gaiety; “but, as you say, it's no use. The poor lad is dead enough at + last, and my only comfort now is to bury him, and sometimes look at his + grave.” + </p> + <p> + The half-hour given by Captain Headley to the men to clean themselves and + eat their breakfasts, afforded his subaltern ample time to take his own, + which had all this time been waiting. When he readied his rooms he found + that he had another ordeal to go through. Mrs. Elmsley was already at the + bead of the table, and pouring out the coffee, with Miss Heywood seated on + her left—the latter very pale, and having evidently passed a + sleepless night. As the officer entered the room, a slight flush + overspread her features, for she looked as if she expected him to be + accompanied by another, but when he hastily unbuckled his sword, and + placed it, with his cap, on a side-table, desiring his wife to lose no + time in pouring out the coffee, as he must be off again immediately, she + felt, she knew not wherefore, very sick at heart, and became even paler + than before. Nor was she at all re-assured by the tone of commiseration in + which, after drawing a chair to her side, and affectionately pressing her + hand, he inquired after her own and her mother's health. + </p> + <p> + “Why, George,” said Mrs. Elmsley, who remarked this change in her friend, + and in some degree divined the cause, “where are Mr. Ronayne and the + doctor? You told me last night they were to breakfast here—and see, + one, two, three, four, five cups (pointing at each with her finger), I + have prepared accordingly. Indeed, I scarcely think this young lady would + have made her appearance at the breakfast-table, had she not expected to + meet—who was it, my dear?” and she turned an arch look upon her + friend—“ah! I know now—Von Vottenberg.” + </p> + <p> + “Nay, I have no more need of disguise from your husband than from + yourself, Margaret,” replied Miss Heywood, her coloring cheek in a measure + contradicting her words—“it was Harry Ronayne I expected; but,” she + added, with a faint smile, “do not imagine I am quite so romantic as not + to be able to take my breakfast, because he is not present to share it; + therefore if you please, I also will trouble you for a cup of coffee.” + </p> + <p> + “All in good time,” remarked Mrs. Elmsley. “I dare say, Ronayne is engaged + in some duty which has prevented him from keeping his engagement as + punctually as he could have desired. We shall certainly see him before the + breakfast things are removed.” + </p> + <p> + “It seems to me,” said her husband, who was taking his meal with the + appetite of any other than a hungry man, and even with a shade of vexation + on his features, “that you all appear to be very much in the dark here. + Why, Margaret, have you not heard what has occurred during the night, as + well as this morning?” + </p> + <p> + “How should I have heard any thing, George?” replied Mrs. Elmsley. “I have + seen no one since you went out this morning—who could have + communicated news from without? Surely you ought to know that. Will you + have more coffee?” + </p> + <p> + “No, thank you—I have no appetite for coffee or for any thing else. + I almost wish I had not come. Dear Maria,” he added, impetuously, taking + Miss Heywood's hand in his own; “I know you have a noble—a + courageous heart, and can bear philosophically what I have to tell you.” + </p> + <p> + “I can bear much,” was the reply, accompanied by a forced smile, that was + contradicted by the quivering of the compressed lip; “and if I could not, + I find I must begin to learn. Yet what can you have to tell me, my dear + Mr. Elmsley, more than I already divine—my poor father—” and + the tears started from her eyes. + </p> + <p> + “Ha! there at least, I have comfort for you—although there has been + sad work at the farm—the fishing-party have come in with the bodies + of poor Le Noir and the boy Wilton, but they all say that Mr. Heywood was + carried off a prisoner by the Indians.” + </p> + <p> + “Carried off a prisoner,” repeated Miss Heywood, a sudden glow animating + her pale features—“oh! Elmsley, thank you for that. There is still a + hope then?” + </p> + <p> + “There is indeed a hope; but, dearest Miss Heywood, why must I heal with + one hand and wound with the other. If I give comparative good news of your + father, there is another who ought to be here, and whose absence at this + moment is to me at once a pain and a mystery.” + </p> + <p> + “You mean Harry Ronayne?” she said, hesitatingly, but without manifesting + surprise. + </p> + <p> + “Where the foolish fellow has gone,” he continued, “I do not know, but he + has disappeared from the Fort, nor has he left the slightest clue by which + he may be traced.” + </p> + <p> + “Does Captain Headley know this?” she inquired, recollecting, that part of + the conversation that had passed between them the preceding day, in + reference to the succor that might have been afforded at the farm. + </p> + <p> + “He does. I made the report of Ronayne's absence to him personally, and + the doctor was summoned to state if he had seen any thing of him. He, + however, was as ignorant as a man, who had been drunk during the night, + and was not yet quite sober in the morning, could well be. The captain was + as much surprised as displeased, but further inquiry was delayed on the + sergeant of the guard coming up and announcing the near approach of the + boat containing the fishing-party.” + </p> + <p> + “Tell me, dear Mr. Elmsley,” said Miss Heywood, after a few moments of + seeming reflection; “what is your own opinion of the matter? How do you + account—or have you at all endeavored to account for Ronayne's + absence?” + </p> + <p> + “I can easily understand the cause,” he replied, “but confound me if I can + attempt to divine the means he took to accomplish his object.” + </p> + <p> + He then proceeded to relate the circumstances of his proposal to Captain + Headley—the abrupt refusal he had met with—his subsequent + application to himself to pass him out of the gate, and the final + abandonment of his request when he found that his acquiescence would + seriously compromise him, as officer of the guard. + </p> + <p> + “Noble Harry!” thought Miss Heywood—“your confusion, your vexation + of yesterday, arose from not being able to follow your own generous + impulses: but now I fully understand the resolve you secretly made—and + all for my sake. Do not think me very romantic,” she said aloud to Mr. + Elmsley, “but really, Margaret, I cannot despair that all will yet, and + speedily, be well. The only fear I entertain is that the strict Captain + Headley may rebuke him in terms that will call up all the fire of his + nature, and induce a retort that may prove a source of serious + misunderstanding—unless, indeed, the greatness of the service + rendered, plead his justification.” + </p> + <p> + “Now that we are on the subject, dear Miss Heywood,” remarked Elmsley, + “let me once for all disabuse you of an impression which I fear you + entertain—or is it so? Do you think that Ronayne has had an + opportunity of joining the party at the farm?” + </p> + <p> + “Certainly, I do,” she answered, gravely, “or why should he have gone + forth? Pray do not rob me of what little comfort, in expectation, I have + left.” + </p> + <p> + “That he went forth madly and single-handed for the purpose, I can believe—nay, + I am sure of it; but I grieve to add that he has not been seen there.” + </p> + <p> + “This, indeed, is strange,” she returned in faltering tones, and with + ill-disguised emotion, for, hitherto she had been sustained by the belief + that he was merely lingering behind the party, in order to satisfy himself + of facts, the detail of which could not fail to be satisfactory to her + ear. “How know you this?” + </p> + <p> + “I questioned Corporal Nixon, who commanded the party, and who apprised me + of Mr. Heywood's having been carried off by the Indians, for I was deeply + anxious, as you may presume, to know what had become of my friend—and + this far less even for my own sake than for yours.” + </p> + <p> + “And his answer was?” and there was deep melancholy in the question. + </p> + <p> + “That no American uniform had come under his notice during his absence + from the Fort, save those of the party he commanded. These, as far as I + can recollect, were his precise words.” + </p> + <p> + “Mr. Elmsley,” said a sentry, who now appeared at the door of the + breakfast-parlor, “Captain Headley waits for you in the orderly room.” + </p> + <p> + “Is Corporal Nixon there?” asked the lieutenant. + </p> + <p> + “He is, sir.” + </p> + <p> + “Good, Dixon, I shall be there immediately.” + </p> + <p> + “God bless you,” he continued, to Miss Heywood, when the man had departed. + “We shall, perhaps, elicit from him, something that will throw light upon + the obscure part of this matter. Margaret, do not leave the dear girl + alone, but cheer up her spirits, and make her hope for the best.” + </p> + <p> + So saying, he shook her hand affectionately, pushed back his chair from + the table, and resuming his cap and sword, left the friends together, + promising to return as soon as the examination of the man should be + concluded. + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0009" id="link2HCH0009"> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER IX. + </h2> + <p> + Mr. Heywood's history may be told in a few words. He was the son of an + officer who had served in one of the American partizan corps, during the + Revolution, and had been killed at the attack made by General Green upon + the stronghold of Ninety-Six, in the South. At that time he was a mere + youth, and found himself a few years after, and at the age of eighteen, + without fortune, and wholly dependent upon his own resources. The war + being soon ended, his naturally enterprising disposition, added to great + physical strength, induced him to unite himself with one of the many bands + of adventurers that poured into the then, wilds of Kentucky, where, within + five years, and by dint of mere exertion and industry, he amassed money + enough to enable him to repair to Charleston, in South Carolina, and + espouse a lady of considerable landed property, with whom he had formed a + partial engagement, prior to his entering on that adventurous life. The + only fruit of this union was a daughter, and here, as far as fortune was + concerned, they might have enjoyed every comfort in life, for Mrs. + Heywood's property was principally situated in the neighborhood, but her + husband was of too restless a nature to content himself with a sedentary + life. He had at the outset embarked in commerce—the experience of a + few years, however, convincing him that he was quite unsuited to such + pursuits, he had the good sense to abandon them before his affairs could + be involved. He next attempted the cultivation of the estate, but this + failing to afford him the excitement he craved, he suddenly took leave of + his family, and placing every thing under the control of a manager, once + more obeyed the strong impulse, which urged him again to Kentucky. Here, + following as a passion the occupation of his earlier years, he passed + several seasons, scarcely communicating during that period, with his + amiable and gentle wife, for whom, however, as well as for his daughter—now + fifteen years of age, and growing rapidly into womanhood—he was by + no means wanting in affection. Nor was his return home THEN purely a + matter of choice. Although neither quarrelsome nor dissipated in his + habits, he had had the misfortune to kill, in a duel, a young lawyer of + good family who had accompanied him to Kentucky, and had consequently + fled. Great exertions were made by the relatives of the deceased to have + him arrested on the plea that the duel, the result of a tavern dispute, + had been unfair on the part of the survivor. As there was some slight + ground for this charge, the fact of Mr. Heywood's flight afforded + increased presumption of his guilt, and such was the publicity given to + the matter by his enemies, that the rumor soon reached Charleston, and + finally, the ears of his family. + </p> + <p> + Revealing, in this extremity, his true position to his wife, Mr. Heywood + declared it to be his intention either to cross the sea, or to bury + himself forever in the remotest civilized portion of their own continent, + leaving her however, to the undisturbed possession of the property she had + brought him, which would of course descend to their child. + </p> + <p> + But Mrs. Heywood would not listen to the proposal. Although she had much + to complain of, and to pain her, all recollection of the past faded from + her memory, when she beheld her husband in a position of danger, and even + in some degree of humiliation, for she was not ignorant that even in the + eyes of people not over scrupulous, ineffaceable infamy attaches to the + man, who, in a duel, aims with unfair deliberation at the life of his + opponent; and anxious to satisfy herself that such a stain rested not on + the father of her child, she conjured him to tell her if such really was + the case. He solemnly denied the fact, although he admitted there were + certain appearances against him, which, slight as they were, his enemies + had sought to deepen into proofs—and in the difficulty of disproving + these lay his chief embarrassment. + </p> + <p> + The tone—the manner—the whole demeanor of Mr. Heywood carried + conviction with his denial, and his wife at once expressed her + determination to renounce for his sake, all those local ties and + associations by which she had been surrounded from childhood, and follow + his fortunes, whithersoever they might lead. This, she persisted, she was + the more ready and willing to do, because her daughter's education having + been some months completed, under the best masters, there was now no + anxiety on her account, other than what might arise from her own sense of + the contemplated change. + </p> + <p> + Maria Heywood was accordingly summoned to the consultation—made + acquainted with her father's position, and the necessity for his instant + departure from that section of the country—and finally told that + with her it rested to decide, not only whether he should go alone, but if + they accompanied him, whether it should be to Europe, or to the Far West. + </p> + <p> + “Rest with me to decide!” exclaimed the warm-hearted girl as she threw + herself into her mother's arms. “Oh, how good of you both thus to consult + me, whose duty it is to obey. But do not think that it is any privation + for me to leave this. I cannot claim the poor merit of the sacrifice. I + have no enjoyment in cities. Give me the solitude of nature, books, and + music, and I will live in a wigwam without regret.” + </p> + <p> + “Dear enthusiast,” said Mrs. Heywood, pressing her fondly to her heart; “I + knew well in what spirit would be your answer. You decide then for the Far + West?” + </p> + <p> + “Oh, yes, dear mamma! the Far West for me—no Europe. Give me the + tall, dense forests of our own noble land! I desire no other home—long + have I pictured to myself the vast lakes—the trackless woods and the + boundless prairies of that region of which I have read so much, and now,” + she concluded, with exaltation, “my fondest wishes will be realized, and I + shall pass my life in the midst of them. But, dear papa, to what + particular spot do we go?” + </p> + <p> + “To Chicago, my noble girl! It is the remotest of our Western possessions, + and quite a new country. There I may hope to pass unheeded, but how will + you, dear Maria, endure being buried alive there, when so many advantages + await you here?” + </p> + <p> + “Only figuratively, papa,” she replied with a pensive smile stealing over + her fine intellectual features. “Have no fear for me on that score, for + depend upon it, with so much natural beauty to interest, it will be my own + fault, if I suffer myself to be buried alive. What think you, dear mamma?” + </p> + <p> + “I think with you, my child,” replied Mrs. Heywood, looking approvingly at + her daughter, “that it is our duty, as it assuredly will be our pleasure + to accompany your father wherever he may go.” + </p> + <p> + It was now arranged that Mr. Heywood, furnished with a considerable sum of + money in gold, should set out alone on the following night for their new + destination, and make the necessary preparations for their reception, + while his wife, through her agent, should endeavor to dispose of the + estate. As it would require some time for this, and as the arrangements at + Chicago could not well be completed within several months, it was settled + that they should meet at Albany, early in the following autumn, where they + should proceed to take possession of their new abode. For his better + security and freedom from interruption, Mr. Heywood, while travelling, was + to assume a feigned name, but his own was to be resumed immediately after + his arrival at Chicago, for neither he nor his family could for a moment + think of increasing the suspicion of guilt, by continuing a name that was + not their own; and, finally, as a last measure of precaution, the free + servants of the establishment, had, with the exception of Catharine, whom + they were to take with them, been discharged, while a purchaser having + fortunately been found, the slaves, with the estate, were handed over to a + new master, proverbial for his kindness to that usually oppressed race. By + these means they found themselves provided with funds more than adequate + to all their future wants, the great bulk of the sum arising from the sale + of the estate being vested in two of the most stable banks of the Union. + </p> + <p> + With the money he took with him, carefully deposited in his saddlebags, + for he performed the whole of the journey on horseback, Mr. Heywood had + caused the cottage already described, to be built and furnished from + Detroit, in what, at that period, and so completely at the ultima thule of + American civilization, was considered a style of great luxury. He had, + however, shortly prior to his setting out for Albany, purchased several + hundred acres of land, about two miles up the Southern branch of the + Chicago, leaving instructions with Le Noir, whom he had engaged for a long + term of service, to erect upon it a log building and outhouses. This he + had been induced to do from that aching desire for physical exertion which + had been familiar to him from boyhood, and which he felt could never be + sufficiently indulged within the limited compass of the little village + itself—subjected as he must be to the observation of the curious and + the impertinent. He returned from Albany after a few months' absence, in + the autumn of 1809, bringing with him his friends who occupied the + cottage, while he himself obtained their assent that he should inhabit the + farm house, completed soon after his return. Here he cut with his own + hands, many a cord of the wood that his servants floated down in rafts, + not only for his own family, but to supply the far more extensive wants of + the garrison, with which, however, he had little or no intercourse, beyond + that resulting from his business relations. + </p> + <p> + Such was the condition of things at the period at which our narrative has + opened. Maria Heywood had now been three years an occupant of the cottage, + and within that time solitude and habits of reflection had greatly matured + her mind, as years had given every womanly grace to her person. The past + had also tended much to form her character, upon which the development of + physical beauty so often depends. At her first debut into society at + Charleston, in her fourteenth year—an age that would have been + considered premature, but for the rapidity with which form and intellect + are known to ripen in that precocious climate—she had received, but + listened with indifference to the vapid compliments of men whose + shallowness she was not slow to detect, and whose homage conveyed rather a + fulsome tribute to her mere personal beauty, than a correct appreciation + of her heart and understanding. Not that it is to be inferred that she + prided herself unduly upon this latter, but because it was by that + standard of conduct chiefly, that she was enabled to judge of the minds of + those who evinced so imperfect a knowledge of the female heart, when, + emerging from the gaiety of girlhood, it passes into the earnestness of + womanly feeling. + </p> + <p> + But although cold—almost repellant to all who had poured their + ephemeral and seldom varying homage in her ear—no woman's heart ever + beat with more kind—more generous—more devoted sentiments, + than her own. Possessed of a vivid imagination, which the general quietude + of her demeanor in a great degree disowned, she had already sketched + within her glowing mind her own beau ideal, whose image was a talisman to + deaden her heart against the influence of these soulless realities. + </p> + <p> + With such sentiments as these had Maria Heywood cheerfully consented to + accompany her parents to that secluded spot, from which there was little + probability of a speedy return; but solitude, so far from weakening the + strong impressions that had entwined themselves around her heart, from the + moment of her emancipation from childhood, only served to invest them with + new power. The more her feelings repined—the more expanded her + intellect—the stronger became the sense of absence of one who could + enter into, and in some degree, give a direction to all her thoughts and + emotions—sharing with her the rich fruit that springs from the + consciousness of kindred associations of mind. But this was the secret of + her own heart—of the heart of one whose personal attractions were + well suited to the rich and overflowing character of her soul, and who had + now attained that age which gives eloquent expression to every movement of + the ripely moulded form. + </p> + <p> + Above the middle size, the figure of Maria Heywood was at once gracefully + and nobly formed. Her face, of a chiselled oval, was of a delicate olive + tint, which well harmonized with eyes of a lustrous hazel, and hair of + glossy raven black. A small mouth, bordered by lips of coral fulness, + disclosed, when she smiled, teeth white and even; while a forehead, high + for her sex, combined with a nose, somewhat more aquiline than Grecian, to + give dignity to a countenance that might, otherwise, have exhibited a + character of voluptuous beauty. Yet, although her features, when lighted + up by vivacity or emotion, were radiant with intelligence; their + expression when in repose was of a pensive cast, that, contrasted with her + general appearance, gave to it a charm, addressed at once to sense and + sentiment, of which it is impossible, by description, to give an adequate + idea. A dimpled cheek, an arm, hand and foot, that might have served the + statuary as a model, completed a person which, without exaggeration, might + be deemed almost, if not wholly faultless. + </p> + <p> + The habits of Mr. Heywood were of that peculiar nature—his desire of + isolation from every thing that could be called society was so obvious, + that for the first year of the residence of the family at Chicago, + scarcely any intercourse had been maintained between the inmates of the + cottage and the officers' wives; and it was only on the occasion of the + commanding officer giving a party, to celebrate the anniversary of + American Independence on the following year, that the first approach to an + acquaintance had been made. It had been deemed by him a matter of duty to + invite all of the few American families that were settled in the + neighborhood, and of course the Heywoods were of the number. On the same + principle of conventionalism the invitation was accepted, and not slight + was the surprise of the ladies of the garrison, when they found in the + secluded occupants of the cottage, to whom they had assigned a doubtful + position in society, those to whom no effort of their own prejudice could + refuse that correct estimate, which quiet dignity without ostentation, is + ever certain to command. + </p> + <p> + At the announcement of the names of Mrs. and Miss Heywood, the somewhat + stately Mrs. Headley was disposed to receive with hauteur the inmates of + the cottage, but no sooner had Maria Heywood, accompanied by her gentle + mother, entered the apartment with the easy and composed air of one to + whom the drawing-room is familiar, than all her prejudices vanished, and + with a heart warming towards her, as though she, had been the cherished + sister of her love, she arose, pressed her hand affectionately and + welcomed her to the Fort with the sincerity of a generous and elevated + nature, anxious to repair its own wrong. + </p> + <p> + From that period, both by the wife of the commandant, and by Mrs. Elmsley—the + only two ladies in the garrison, Maria Heywood was as much liked and + courted, as she had previously been disregarded. To deny that the noble + girl did in some measure exult in this change, would be to do wrong to the + commendable pride of a woman, who feels that the unjust prejudice which + had cast a false shadow over her recent life, has at last been removed, + and that the value, of which she was modestly conscious, began to be + appreciated. + </p> + <p> + It was at this party that her acquaintance with the young Southerner had + commenced, and it is needless to trace the gradual rise of an attachment + which similarity of tastes had engendered. Naturally of an ardent + disposition, the youth had, as we have remarked on a previous occasion, + hitherto loved to indulge in the excitement of the wild sports of the + forest and the prairie, as the only present means of giving freedom to + that spirit of enterprise, so usually wedded to the generous and + unoccupied mind; but, from the period of his acquaintance with Maria + Heywood, a total change had come over his manner of life. The hunt—the + chase—and the cup that so often succeeded, were now almost wholly + abandoned, and his only delight NOW in excursions was to ride with her + across the prairie, or to pull her in his light skiff either along the + shores of the Michigan, or through the various branches of the river, + contemplating the beautiful Heavens by moonlight, and indulging in + speculations, which were not more the fruit of romantic temperament, than + of the intensity of Love. He had, moreover, four dogs trained to draw her + in a light sledge of his own device and construction, in winter. In these + rambles she was usually accompanied either by Mrs. Headley, or by the wife + of his friend and brother subaltern, and after the invigorating exercise + of the day, his evenings, whenever he could absent himself from the Fort, + were devoted within the cottage to books, magic, and the far more + endearing interchange of the resources of their gifted minds. In summer + there were other employments of a domestic character, for in addition to + their rides, walks, and excursions on the water, both found ample scope + for the indulgence of their partiality for flowers, in the taste for + practical horticulture possessed by Ronayne, under whose care had grown + the luxuriant beauty which every where pervaded the little garden, and + made it to the grateful girl a paradise in miniature. + </p> + <p> + Thus had passed nearly two years, and insensibly, without a word of love + having been breathed, each felt all the security which a consciousness of + being beloved alone could yield, and that assurance imparted to their + manner and address when alone a confiding air, the more endearing from the + silence of their lips. But although no word uttered by themselves + proclaimed the existence of the secret and holy compact, not only were + they fully sensible of it themselves, but it was obvious to all—even + to the least observant of the garrison, and many were there, both among + the soldiers and their wives—by all of whom the young ensign was + liked for his openness and manliness of character—who expressed a + fervent hope that the beautiful and amiable Miss Heywood would soon become + the bride of their favorite officer. This it was, which had led the men of + the fishing-party to express in their way, their sorrow for the young + lady, when she should hear of the events at the farm-house, even while + passing their rude encomiums on the sweetness of disposition of her, whom + they already regarded as the wife of their young officer. + </p> + <p> + It was nearly noon, and Lieutenant Elmsley had not yet made his appearance + with the promised report. Maria Heywood had, after passing an hour with + her mother, returned to the breakfast-room, which it will be recollected + opened immediately upon the barrack-square. Her friend being engaged with + her domestic affairs, which every lady was at that period in a measure + compelled to superintend, she had thrown herself (still in her morning + dishabille) on a couch with a book in her hand, but with a mind wholly + distracted from the subject of its pages. After continuing some time thus, + a prey to nervous anxiety, as much the result of Elmsley's long absence as + of her former fears, the sound of the fifes and drums fell startlingly, + she knew not wherefore, upon her ear and drew her to the door. The men + were falling in, and in the course of a few minutes the little line was + formed a few yards to her left, with its flanks resting on either range of + building, so that the mess-room door, then open, was distinctly visible in + front. At the same moment, Captain Headley and the lieutenant, followed by + Corporal Nixon and the other men of the fishing-party—Green only + excepted—passed out of the orderly room on her right, moved across, + and took up their position in front of the parade. + </p> + <p> + “God bless me, Maria, what is that, or is it his ghost!” suddenly and + unguardedly exclaimed Mrs. Elmsley, who had that moment joined her friend—placing + her arm at the same time round her waist. + </p> + <p> + “What do you mean, Mar—” but before Maria Heywood could complete her + sentence, all power of speech was taken from her in the emotion with which + she regarded what, after a momentary glance, met her view. + </p> + <p> + It was her lover, fully equipped for parade, and walking towards the men + with a calm and deliberate step, which seemed to evince total + unconsciousness that any thing unusual had happened. + </p> + <p> + “Here is a chair, my love—you really tremble as if the man was a + ghost. Now then, we shall have a scene between him and our amiable + commandant.” + </p> + <p> + “God forbid!” tremulously answered the almost bewildered girl; “I am the + cause of all.” + </p> + <p> + “You! Stuff, Maria. What nonsense you talk, for a sensible girl. How + should you be the cause? but, positively, Ronayne can never have been away + from the Fort.” + </p> + <p> + “Do you think so, Margaret?” + </p> + <p> + “I am sure of it. Only look at him. He is as spruce as if he had only just + come out of a band-box. But hush, not a word. There, that's a dear. Lean + your head against my shoulder. Don Bombastes speaks!” + </p> + <p> + “No sign of Mr. Ronayne yet?” demanded Captain Headley, his back turned to + the slowly advancing officer, whose proximity not one of the men seemed + inclined to announce, possibly because they feared rebuke for + insubordination. Mr. Elmsley, he pursued to that officer, who, acting on a + significant half-glance from his friend, was silent also as to his + approach. “Let a formal report of his absence without leave, be made to me + immediately after the parade has been dismissed.” + </p> + <p> + “Nay, sir,” said the ensign, in his ordinary voice and close in the ear of + the speaker, “not as having been absent from duty, I trust. I am not aware + that I have ever missed a guard or a parade yet, without your leave.” + </p> + <p> + At the first sound of his voice, the surprised commandant had turned + quickly round, and there encountered the usual deferential salute of his + subordinate. + </p> + <p> + “But, Mr. Ronayne, what means this? Where, sir, have you been? and, if not + absent, why thus late? Do you know that the men have already been paraded, + and that when required for your guard, you were not to be found?” + </p> + <p> + “The fatigues of the night, Captain Headley,” returned the young officer, + with some hesitation of manner; “the incessant watching—surely there—” + </p> + <p> + “I knew he had not been out of the Fort. Courage, Maria! was audible to + the men who were nearest to the speaker, from Elmsley's doorway. + </p> + <p> + “I know what you would urge, Mr. Ronayne,” remarked the captain; “you + would offer this in plea for your late appearance. I make all due + allowance in the matter; but, let me tell you, sir, that an officer who + thoroughly understands his duty, and consults the interests of the + service, would make light of these matters, in cases of strong emergency.” + </p> + <p> + “Poor Ronayne!” sighed Maria, to her friend. “This is terrible to his + proud spirit. In presence of the whole of the men, too!” + </p> + <p> + “I told you, my dear, there would be a row, but never fear—Elmsley + be there. See, he is looking significantly at us, as if to call our + attention to what is passing.” + </p> + <p> + The lieutenant had been no less astonished than the captain, at the + unexpected appearance of Ronayne—even more so, indeed—because + he had observed, without, however, remarking on it, the cool and + unhastened pace at which he moved along the square, from the direction of + the mess-room. “Now it is coming,” he thought, and half-murmured to + himself, as he saw the crimson gathering on his brow, during the last + harsh address of his superior. + </p> + <p> + “Captain Headley,” said the young man, drawing himself up to his full + height, and somewhat elevating his voice, for he had remarked there were + other and dearer eyes upon him, than those immediately around. “I WILL NOT + be spoken to in this manner, before the men. If you think I have been + guilty of a breach of duty or of discipline, I am prepared to meet your + charges before the proper tribunal, but you shall not take the liberty of + thus addressing me in public parade. My sword, sir,” and he unbuckled it, + and offered the handle, “is at, your disposal, but I deny your further + right.” + </p> + <p> + “No, no, no!” shouted several men from the ranks + </p> + <p> + “No, no, no!” repeated almost every man of the fishing-party, in even more + energetic tones, while the commanding officer was glancing his eye keenly + and rapidly along the little line, to detect those who had set the example + of insubordination. + </p> + <p> + “Ugh! wah! good soger!” came from one of a small party of Indians in the + rear, as the disconcerted captain turned, frowningly, from the men in + front to those who had followed him from the orderly room, and now stood + grouped on the inner flank. + </p> + <p> + “What is the meaning of all this?” he cried, in a loud and angry voice. + </p> + <p> + “Am I braved in my own command, and by my own men? Mr. Elmsley, who are + these Indians, and how came they in?” + </p> + <p> + “They are a part of the encampment without, sir. There was no order given + against their admission this morning, besides it is Winnebeg, and you have + said that the gates of the Fort was to be open to him at all hours.” + </p> + <p> + “Ah! Winnebeg, my friend, how do you do. I did not know it was you or your + people. You know you are always welcome.” + </p> + <p> + “How do, gubbernor,” answered the chief, coming round from the rear of the + line, and taking the proffered hand—“'Spose not very angry now—him + good warrior—him good soger,” and he pointed to the young subaltern. + </p> + <p> + “Ensign Ronayne is, no doubt, very sensible to your good opinion,” + remarked the captain, with evident pique; “but, Winnebeg, as I am sure you + never allow a white man to interfere with you, when you find fault with + your young chiefs, you must let me do the same.” + </p> + <p> + “What find him fault for?” asked the chief, with some surprise; “brave + like a devil!” + </p> + <p> + “Captain Headley,” interposed the ensign, with some impatience, “am I to + surrender my sword, or resume my duty?” + </p> + <p> + But the captain either could not, or would not give a direct answer. “Can + you give me a good reason, Mr. Ronayne, why I should not receive your + sword? Do you deny that you have been guilty of neglect of duty?” + </p> + <p> + “In what?” was the brief demand. + </p> + <p> + “In being absent from the Fort, without leave, sir.” + </p> + <p> + “Indeed! To substantiate that, you must bring proofs, Captain Headley. + Who,” and he looked around him, as if challenging his accuser, “pretends + to have seen me beyond these defences?” + </p> + <p> + The commandant was for some moments at a loss, for he had not anticipated + this difficulty. At length he resumed. “Was it not to be absent without + leave, that, when the guard was all ready to be marched off, you were not + to be found?” + </p> + <p> + “Had the guard been marched off, or the parade even formed, I should of + course, have come justly under your censure, Captain Headley; but it was + not so—you ordered the parade and guard-mounting for a later hour. I + am here at that hour.” + </p> + <p> + “Hem!” returned the commandant, who was in some degree obliged to admit + the justice of the remark; “you defend yourself more in the spirit of a + lawyer, than of a soldier, Mr. Ronayne, but all this difficulty is soon + set at rest. I require but your simple denial that you have been absent + from the Fort, within the last twenty-four hours. That given, I shall be + satisfied.” + </p> + <p> + “And that, sir,” was the firm reply of the youth, “I am not disposed to + give. I am not much versed in military prudence, Captain Headley,” he + pursued, after a few moments' pause, and in a tone of slight irony, which + that officer did not seem to perceive, “but at least sufficient to induce + me to reserve what I have to say for my defence. You have charged me, sir, + with having been absent from the Fort without leave; and it is for you to + prove that fact before a competent authority.” + </p> + <p> + “March off your guard, Mr. Ronayne,” was the abrupt rejoinder of the + commandant, for he liked not the continuation of a scene in which the + advantage seemed not to rest with him, but with the very party whom he had + sought to chasten; “Mr. Elmsley dismiss the parade. I had intended + promoting on the spot, Corporal Nixon and private Collins for their + conduct yesterday, but the gross insubordination I have just seen, has + caused me to change my mind. Neither shall have the rank intended, until + the guilty parties are named. I give until the hour of parade to-morrow + for their production, and if, by that time, their names are not laid + before me, no such promotion shall take place while I command the + garrison. Dismiss the men, sir. Here, Winnebeg, my good fellow, you have + come at a good moment. I have dispatches to send to Detroit this very + evening, and I know no one I can trust so well as yourself.” + </p> + <p> + “Good,” was the answer, “Winnebeg always ready to do him order—no + angry more, gubbernor, with young chief,” pointing to the ensign, as he + moved off with his small guard. “Dam good soger—you see dis?” and he + touched his scalping-knife with his left hand, and looked very + significantly. + </p> + <p> + “No, Winnebeg, not angry any more,” was the reply; “but how do you know + him to be good soger? What has your scalping-knife to do with it?” + </p> + <p> + “Winnebeg know all,” said the chief gravely, as he laid his heavy hand + upon the shoulder of the commandant, “but can't tell. Young chief say no, + and Winnebeg love young chief.” + </p> + <p> + This remark forcibly struck Captain Headley, and brought back to his mind, + certain recollections. He, however, asked no further question, but + pointed, as they moved in the direction of his own apartments, towards the + sun, showing by his gesture that it was not too early to take the mid-day + dram. + </p> + <p> + “Where the devil have you been, man, and with what confounded impudence + you got through the scrape,” was remarked at a distant part of the same + ground, and at the same moment with the conversation just given. + </p> + <p> + “How is Maria?” eagerly asked Ronayne. “When shall I see her?” + </p> + <p> + “Well enough to hear all that passed between you and Military Prudence,” + returned his friend; “but that is no answer to my question.” + </p> + <p> + “There was nothing like braving it,” answered the other evasively; “but I + say, Elmsley, I am devilish hungry, that breakfast you invited me to last + night is over long ago, of course.” This last sentence was uttered in a + mock piteous tone. + </p> + <p> + “Just what I was going to speak about, my dear boy. We have had number + ONE, but before half an hour, we shall be seated at number TWO. When your + sergeant has relieved his sentries, come over and you will find a piping + hot breakfast.” + </p> + <p> + “Will it be quite consistent with military prudence to leave my guard so + soon, after the lecture I have had?” remarked the ensign, with a smile—“but, + ah! I had nearly forgotten. Elmsley, I must say a few words to you before + I go in, and a better opportunity cannot be afforded than while we are + walking from this to your place. Just go then, and order the breakfast as + you propose, and return here. I shall have completed the arrangements of + the guard by that time, and all that I have to ask of you, can be answered + as we go along.” + </p> + <p> + “I hope it is no great secret you have to impart,” returned the + lieutenant, “for I am a sad hand at the mysterious, and shall be sure to + tell my wife, if I do not tell Maria.” + </p> + <p> + “Not you—you will tell neither, but au revoir.” + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0010" id="link2HCH0010"> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER X. + </h2> + <p> + At the moment when Ensign Ronayne removed his sword, with the intention of + handing it to his commanding officer, in anticipation of the arrest which + he expected, Maria Heywood, little conversant with those military + formalities, and apprehending from the previous high tone of her lover, + that something fearful was about to occur, had not absolutely fainted, but + become so agitated, that Mrs. Elmsley was induced to take her back to the + sofa, on which she had previously been reclining. As she was leaving her + chair, Mrs. Headley, whose attention had also been arrested by the loud + and angry voice of her husband, came from her own door and joined the + little group, anxiously inquiring the cause of the disturbance without. + </p> + <p> + In a few brief sentences, and as correctly as she was able, Mrs. Elmsley + explained to her the circumstances, and although her attentive auditor + offered no very pointed remark, it was evident from her manner that she + deeply deplored that strict military punctilio, which had led the husband + whom she both loved and esteemed, to place himself in a false position + with his own force—for that it was a false position in some degree, + to provoke insubordination, and yet be without the power to punish it, she + had too much good sense not to perceive. She felt the more annoyed, + because she had on more than one occasion, observed that there was not + that unanimity between her husband and Lieutenant Elmsley, which she + conceived ought to exist between parties so circumstanced—a + commander of a remote post, and his second in command, on whose mutual + good understanding, not only the personal security of all might depend, + but the existence of those social relations, without which, their isolated + position involved all the unpleasantness of a voluntary banishment. This + had ever been to her a source of regret, and she had on several occasions, + although in the most delicate and unobtrusive manner, hinted at the fact; + but the man who doated upon her, and to whom, in all other respects, her + desire was law, evinced so much inflexibility in all that appertained to + military etiquette, that she had never ventured to carry her allusions + beyond the light commentary induced by casual reference to the subject. + </p> + <p> + If then she lamented that unfortunate coolness, if not absolute + estrangement, which existed between Lieutenant Elmsley and her husband, + bow much more acutely did she feel the difficulty of the position now, + when the only other responsible officer of the garrison—and that a + young man of high feeling and accomplishment, whom she had ever liked and + admired—was fast being led into the same antagonism. Nay, what + rendered the matter more painful to her, was the fact of the latter being + the lover, or perhaps the affianced of a girl, whom she regarded with a + fervor not often felt by one woman for another, and for whose interests + she could have made every sacrifice, not affecting those of her husband. + </p> + <p> + Such were the women who were now seated on the ottoman, engaged more in + their own reflections, than in conversation, when Lieutenant Elmsley + entered the room, announcing that the truant would shortly be in for + breakfast, which, he requested, might be instantly prepared in the usual + manner, only adding thereto a couple of bottles of claret. + </p> + <p> + “Ah! pardon me, Mrs. Headley,” he added, somewhat stiffly, as his wife + left the room to issue the necessary orders, “I did not see you, or I + should have been rather more ceremonious in my domestic communications.” + </p> + <p> + Mrs. Headley slightly colored. She was sensible that pique towards her + husband, and a belief that she wholly shared his sentiments, had induced + this rather sarcastic speech. + </p> + <p> + “By no means, Mr. Elmsley. I trust you will not put ME down as a stranger, + whatever your disposition to others.” + </p> + <p> + There was a significance in the manner in which this was said, that deeply + touched the lieutenant, and his tone immediately changed. + </p> + <p> + “Then, I take you at your word,” he said. “It is a long time since I have + had the pleasure of seeing you here, and you must positively join our + second breakfast. I know Captain Headley is engaged with Winnebeg, whom he + purposes sending off this evening with despatches, so that you will not be + missed for at least an hour. There, look at Miss Heywood's imploring look—she + pleads with her eyes in my favor, although there is no chance, it appears, + of getting a word from her lips.” + </p> + <p> + “Nay,” remarked the other, who had rallied from her late despondency, on + hearing the object of the breakfast; “you are very unreasonable, Mr. + Elmsley. You do not deserve that I should speak to you to-day, and I am + not quite sure that I shall.” + </p> + <p> + “And pray, fair lady, why not? Wherein have I had the misfortune to + offend?” + </p> + <p> + “Ah! do you forget? You promised to bring me a certain report of certain + occurrences, and yet instead of that, not a word have you condescended to + address to me until this moment.” + </p> + <p> + “I plead guilty,” he answered deprecatingly, “but pray for a suspension of + sentence, until the return of one through whose influence I hope to obtain + your pardon! I go now,” he whispered, “to lead him to your feet.” + </p> + <p> + “Well, what is the great question you have to put to me?” said the + lieutenant to his friend, whom he had rejoined, and with whom he now + returned slowly towards the house—“one involving a case of life and + death it might be imagined, from the long face you put on when alluding to + the matter.” + </p> + <p> + “Nay, not exactly that, but still involving a good deal. Tell me frankly, + Elmsley, has Miss Heywood heard any further account of the events at the + farm-house?” + </p> + <p> + “She has heard the report brought in by Nixon and the rest of the + fishing-party.” + </p> + <p> + “And what was that, I pray you?” eagerly returned the ensign. + </p> + <p> + “That Mr. Heywood had been carried off by the Indians.” + </p> + <p> + “From whom did she hear it?” + </p> + <p> + “It was I who told her, on the strength of what the corporal reported, not + only to myself, but to Captain Headley.” + </p> + <p> + “You are a considerate fellow, Elmsley,” said his friend, warmly pressing + his hand. “I thank you for that, and now that the great question, as you + term it, is answered, I am quite ready for the promised breakfast. Did + these fellows bring home any fish? I have a great fancy for fish this + morning.” + </p> + <p> + “No; they brought home dead men,” and the lieutenant looked searchingly + into the face of his companion, dwelling on every word, moreover, as if he + would convey that he (Ronayne), knew perfectly well what freight the boat + had brought to the Fort. + </p> + <p> + Further remark was prevented by their arrival at their destination—the + front-door being open, and revealing the little party within. The first + upon, whom the young officer's eye fell, was Mrs. Headley, of whose + intended presence, his friend had not thought of apprising him. Still + smarting under a keen sense of the severity of reproof of his commanding + officer, and falling into the common error of involving the wife in the + unamiability of the husband, Ronayne would have retired, even at the risk + of losing his breakfast, and, what was of far more moment to him, of + delaying his meeting with her to whom his every thought was devoted. But + when Mrs. Headley, who had remarked the movement, came forward to the + door, and gave him her hand with all the warmth and candor of her noble + nature, the pique vanished from his mind, and in an instant, he, like + Elmsley, evinced that devotion and regard for her, which her fascinating + manner could not fail to inspire. + </p> + <p> + The sense of constraint being thus banished by the only one whose presence + had occasioned it, the party, after a few minutes low conversation between + the lovers, sat down gaily to a meal—half-break fast, half-luncheon, + at which the most conspicuous actor was the lately reprimanded ensign. + </p> + <p> + “Really, Mr. Ronayne, you must have met with a perfect chapter of + adventures during your absence last night. You have devoured the last four + fresh eggs, my cook says, there were in the house—three limbs of a + prairie fowl, and nearly the half of a young bear ham. Do, pray, tell us + where you have been to gain such an appetite? Indeed you must—I am + dying to know.” + </p> + <p> + “My dear Mrs. Elmsley,” he replied, coloring, “where should I have been + but in the Fort?” + </p> + <p> + “True! where SHOULD you have been, indeed; but this is not the point, my + hungry gentleman. Where WERE you? If I was, I KNOW WHO,” she added, + significantly, “I should have my suspicions, unless, indeed, you have + already confessed within the few minutes you have been in the room.” + </p> + <p> + “Nay, do not imagine I have so much influence over the truant, as to + compel him to the confessional,” said Maria Heywood. “I assure you I am + quite as much in the dark as any one present.” + </p> + <p> + “Come, Mr. Ronayne, recount your adventures,” added Mrs. Headley. + “Recollect you are not on parade now, or exactly before the sternest Court + of Inquiry in the world, and should therefore, entertain no dread of + punishment on your self-conviction.” + </p> + <p> + “Thus urged and encouraged,” said the ensign, during one of the short + pauses of his knife and fork, which, in truth, he had handled as much to + study what he should say, as to satisfy his hunger; “who could resist such + pleading, were there really any thing to communicate; but I am quite at a + loss to conceive why so general an opinion seems to prevail that I have + been out of the Fort, and in quest of adventure. Why not rather ascribe my + tardiness at parade to some less flattering cause—a head-ache—fatigue + from night-watching—indolence, or even a little entetement, arising + from the denial of a very imprudent request I made to Captain Headley last + evening, to allow me the command of a detachment for a particular purpose. + Pardon me, I have made quite a speech, but indeed you compel me.” + </p> + <p> + “Let us drown this inquisition in a bumper of claret,” interposed Elmsley, + coming to the assistance of his friend, whose motive for thus parrying + inquiry into his conduct, he thought he could divine. “I say, my dear + fellow, you may wish yourself a head-ache—fatigue—indolence, + or even a little entetement every morning of your life, if it is to be + cured in this manner. This is some of the most splendid Lafayette that + ever found its way into these western wilds. Look well at it. It is of the + clearest, the purest blood of the grape—taste it again. A bottle of + it will do you no harm if you had twenty guards in charge.” + </p> + <p> + As he had desired and expected, the introduction of his remarks on the + wine proved not only a means of changing the conversation, but of causing + the ladies to withdraw from the table, round which they had been sitting, + rather to keep the young officer company, than to participate in the + repast themselves. Mrs. Headley was the first to move. + </p> + <p> + “Give me your arm, and see me home,” she said carelessly, to Ronayne, who + now having finished his breakfast, had also risen. “Do not be jealous, my + dear Miss Heywood, but you will later know, if you do not know already, + that the wife of the commanding officer always appropriates to herself, + the handsomest unmarried young officer of the regiment.” + </p> + <p> + Both Ronayne and his betrothed were too quick of apprehension not to + perceive, under this light gaiety, a deep interest, and a desire to convey + to them both, that, if unhappily, there did not exist a cordial + understanding between her husband and the former, in matters purely + military, and in relation to subjects which should have no influence over + private life, she was by no means, a party to the disunion. + </p> + <p> + “Not very difficult to choose between the handsomest and the cleverest of + the unmarried officers of the garrison of Chicago,” replied Maria Heywood + with an effort at cheerfulness; “therefore, Mr. Ronayne, I advise you not + to be too much elated by Mrs. Headley's compliment. After that caution, I + think you may be trusted with her.” + </p> + <p> + “What a noble creature, and what a pity she has so cold and pompous a + husband,” remarked Lieutenant Elmsley, as Mrs. Headley disappeared from + the door-way. “I never knew her so well as this morning, and upon my word, + Margaret, were both HE and YOU out of the way, I should be greatly tempted + to fall in love with her.” + </p> + <p> + “You would act wisely if you did, George; I have always thought most + highly of her. She is, it is true, a little reserved in manner, but that I + am sure comes wholly from a certain restraint, imposed upon her by her + husband's formality of character. I say I am sure of this, for there have + been occasions when I have seen her exhibit a warmth of address, as + different from her general demeanor, as light is from shadow.” + </p> + <p> + “Perhaps Headley has systematically drilled her into the particular + bearing that ought to be assumed by the wife of the commandant of a + garrison.” + </p> + <p> + “Nay, George! that is not generous, but I know you are not serious in what + you say. You judge Mrs. Headley better, and that she is not a woman to be + so drilled. She has too much good sense, despite all her partiality for + her husband, to allow herself to be improperly influenced, where her + judgment condemns; and although, as his wife, she must necessarily act in + concert with him, it by no means follows that she approves unreservedly, + all that he does.” + </p> + <p> + “You are a dear, noble creature yourself!” exclaimed the gratified + Elmsley, as he fondly embraced his wife. “There is nothing I love so much + as to see one woman warm in the defence of another—one so seldom + meets with that sort of thing. What, Maria, tears?” + </p> + <p> + “Yes—tears of pleasure!” she answered earnestly, as she held her + handkerchief to her eyes—“tears of joy to see so much generosity of + feeling among those whom I have so much reason to esteem and admire. You + are right,” she pursued, addressing Mrs. Elmsley, “she is indeed a noble + woman. Perhaps I may justly be accused of a little partiality, for I never + can forget the frank and cordial proffers of friendship with which she + received me on the first night of my appearance here.” + </p> + <p> + “Ha! Von Vottenberg to the rescue!” exclaimed Elmsley, with sudden + animation, as the stout figure of the former shaded the door-way. “Well, + doctor, have you passed away in the evaporation produced by fright, the + violent head-ache you were suffering from this morning? If not, try that + claret. It is capital stuff, and a tumbler of it will make up for the + breakfast you have lost.” + </p> + <p> + “Faith, and there is no breakfast lost, that I can perceive,” chuckled the + doctor, seating himself unceremoniously at the table, and commencing upon + the remains of the bear ham, and prairie hen. + </p> + <p> + “I fear the tea and coffee are cold,” said Mrs. Elmsley; “let me get some + hot for you?” + </p> + <p> + “By no means, my dear Mrs. Elmsley, I could not think of such slops with + generous claret at my elbow. Nay, do not look offended. Your tea and + coffee are always of the best, but they do not just now, suit my taste. + Miss Heywood, how do you do this morning? How is your gentle mother? I + have called expressly to see her. Elmsley, where is that runaway, + Ronayne?” + </p> + <p> + And where indeed was he? They had not walked more than three or four + paces, when Mrs. Headley, after some little hesitation, addressed him + thus:— + </p> + <p> + “Mr. Ronayne, notwithstanding your evident desire to conceal the fact, I + can plainly see that you were not within the Fort last night. I can fully + comprehend that your motive for absenting yourself, has been praiseworthy, + but you must also admit that the reproof you met with this morning, was + not altogether undeserved. Pray do not start or look grave, for, believe + me, I am speaking to you only as a friend—indeed it was to have the + opportunity of convincing you that I am such, that I asked you to escort + me.” + </p> + <p> + “Really, Mrs. Headley,” interrupted the young officer, little divining to + what all this was to tend, and feeling not altogether at his ease, from + the abruptness with which the subject had been introduced, “I feel as I + ought, the interest you profess to take in me, but how is that connected + either with my asserted absence, or the reproof it entailed?” + </p> + <p> + “It is so far connected with it, that I wish to point out the means by + which any unpleasant result may be avoided!” + </p> + <p> + “Unpleasant result! Mrs. Headley?” + </p> + <p> + “Yes, unpleasant result, for I have too good an opinion of you not to + believe that any thing tending to destroy the harmony of our very limited + society, would be considered such by you.” + </p> + <p> + “I am all attention, Madam. Pray, proceed.” + </p> + <p> + “The pithiness of your manner does not afford me much encouragement yet I + will not be diverted from my purpose, even by that. You have had the + Commandant's lecture,” she continued, with an attempt at pleasantry, “and + now you must prepare yourself for (pardon the coinage of the term) that of + the Commandantess.” + </p> + <p> + “The plot thickens,” said the ensign, somewhat sharply—“both the + husband and the wife. Jupiter Tonans and Juno the Superb in judgment upon + poor me in succession. Ah! that is too bad. But seriously, Mrs. Headley, I + shall receive with all due humility, whatever castigation you may choose + to inflict.” + </p> + <p> + “No castigation I assure you, Ronayne, but wholesome advice from one, who, + recollect, is nearly old enough to be your mother. However, you shall hear + and then decide for yourself.” + </p> + <p> + “Although,” she pursued, after a short pause, “we women are supposed to + know nothing of those matters, it would be difficult, in a small place + like this, to be ignorant of what is going on. Hence it is that I have + long since remarked, with pain and sorrow, the little animosity which + exists between Headley and yourself—(I will not introduce Mr. + Elmsley's name, because what I have to say has no immediate reference to + him), and the almost daily widening breach. Now, Ronayne, I would appeal + to your reason. Place yourself for a moment in my husband's position. + Consider his years, nearly double your own—his great responsibility + and the peculiar school of discipline in which he has been brought up. + Place yourself, I repeat, in his position, and decide what would be your + sentiments if, in the conscientious discharge of your duty, you thought + yourself thwarted by those very men—much your juniors both in years + and military experience—on whose co-operation you had every fair + reason to rely.” + </p> + <p> + “You have, my dear Mrs. Headley, put the case forcibly yet simply.” + returned the ensign, who had listened with marked deference to the whole + of her remonstrance. “In such a case I should feel no slight annoyance, + but why imagine that I have sought to thwart Captain Headley?” + </p> + <p> + “Was it not apparently to thwart him—bear in mind I speak to you + dispassionately and as a friend—to refuse in the presence of the + whole garrison this morning to account for your absence of last night, + which might have been easily explained, had you been so disposed?” + </p> + <p> + “But, my dear Mrs. Headley, why is it persisted in, that I was absent—and + even if such were the case, might not I have had a good reason for + refusing to commit myself by the avowal.” + </p> + <p> + “Admitting this, could you have maintained your position without, in a + measure, setting his authority at defiance—thus encouraging the men + to do the same. Was this right, I ask? Was this officer-like?” + </p> + <p> + “Well, no, perhaps not. I blush not to make the admission to YOU, for + indeed, there is no resisting so bewitching a master in petticoats. Yet, + what would you have me do?” + </p> + <p> + “Ah, now, I begin to entertain some hope of you,” she replied, in a gayer + tone, placing her hand at the same time familiarly on his shoulder and + looking approvingly in his face. “Ronayne, you are engaged—perhaps + will shortly become the husband of the noble girl, whom I love even as + though she were my own daughter—yes,” she repeated energetically, as + she felt his grateful pressure of her hand, “even as though she were my + own daughter—nay, you know I like yourself for your open, although + rather too impetuous character. Do you then think that feeling this it can + be any other than a source of deep pain and vexation to me, to see those + in whom I feel so much interest, alienated from each other—in some + degree even mutually hating and hated?” + </p> + <p> + “Yet, what would you have me to do, my dear Mrs. Headley? Some concession + I suppose, must be made. Any thing in honor and in reason will I do for + your sake,” returned the young officer, deeply touched by her manner and + language. + </p> + <p> + “This I wish you to do, Ronayne. Take the first favorable opportunity, + either while on guard to-day, or when relieved to-morrow, to see Headley + privately, and by such language as you well know how to use, remove the + unfavorable impression you have left on his mind—depend upon it, + although extremely cold and inflexible when apparently braved, my husband + has a warm and generous—aye, a noble heart, and will freely grant + what is frankly solicited. Bear in mind, moreover, Ronayne, that it is no + humiliation to admit error when conscious of having committed it; and if + this be so in the social relations of life, how much less derogatory is it + in a military sense.” + </p> + <p> + “Say no more, dearest Mrs. Headley, since it is your wish, I will go, no + matter what the reception I encounter; and any further rebuke I may meet + with, I will cheerfully endure for your sake.” + </p> + <p> + “Now then, Ronayne, you are once more yourself, the generous, high-minded + boy, in whom I delighted, even as a mother would delight in her son, when + you first arrived here about three years ago. Yet, recollect that not only + <i>I</i> shall be gratified and benefitted by this, but YOU and YOURS. Let + but this unhappy discord terminate, and we shall then be what soldiers and + those connected with them, ought ever to be—one undivided family. + And now, for the present, farewell.” + </p> + <p> + “God bless you!” fervently exclaimed the ensign, as he took his leave of + the graceful and noble wife of the commanding officer, with emotions that + fully testified the effect produced upon him by her generous confidence + and candor. + </p> + <p> + From the frequent reference made by Mrs. Headley to her own riper years, + one might have been induced to consider her rather in the decline of life; + but such was not the case. Her splendid and matronly figure might indeed + have impressed the superficial observer with the belief that she had + numbered more than forty summers, but the unchained and luxuriant hair—the + white, even and perfect teeth—the rich, full lip, and unwrinkled + brow, and smooth and brilliant cheek, would not have permitted the woman + most jealous of her charms, could such have been found, to pronounce her + more than six-and-thirty, which was, indeed, her age. It was a source of + gratification to her to consider and represent herself as older than she + really was; and if she had any peculiarity—a weakness it could not + be called—it was that of loving to look upon those younger persons + who claimed a place in her friendship and esteem, as though she actually + stood in the maternal relation to them. This may have, in some degree, + arisen from the fact of her having ever been childless herself. + </p> + <p> + As Ronayne approached Elmsley's house on his return, a remarkably handsome + and noble-looking Indian—quite a youth—was leaning against the + frame of the door, and according to the simple habit of his race, + indulging his curiosity by looking at, and admiring all that he beheld + within. Elmsley himself had gone out, but Von Vottenberg, still seated at + the breakfast-table, was discussing, with its remains, the now nearly + finished claret, while Mrs. Elmsley and Maria Heywood were seated on the + sofa opposite to the door, passing their whispered remarks on the Indian, + whose softened dark glances occasionally fell with intense admiration on + the former, when he fancied the act unseen, but as instantly were + withdrawn, when he perceived that it was observed. + </p> + <p> + Mrs. Elmsley was endeavoring to dissipate the dejection of her friend by + rallying her, as the young officer came to the door, on the evidently new + conquest she had made. The Indian turned to look at the intruder upon his + pleasant musings, when a “wah!” expressive of deep satisfaction escaped + him, and at the same moment, Ronayne grasped, and cordially shook his + hand. + </p> + <p> + “Ha! there is his formidable rival, and seemingly his friend,” whispered + Mrs. Elmsley, in the ear of Maria—“handsome fellows, both of them, + so much so, that were I single, like you, I should have some difficulty in + choosing between them.” + </p> + <p> + As she uttered these words, a sharp and unaccountable pang, sudden and + fleeting as electricity, shot through the frame of her friend. The blood + suddenly receded from her cheek, and then rapidly returning, suffused it + with a burning heat. + </p> + <p> + “What is the matter, my love? Are you ill, you looked so pale just now?” + tenderly inquired Mrs. Elmsley. + </p> + <p> + “I cannot account for what I experienced. It was a feeling different from + any I had ever known before—a strange, wild, and inexplicable dread + of I know not what. But it has passed away. Take no notice of it, dear, + before Ronayne.” + </p> + <p> + “Mrs. Elmsley,” said the latter, almost using force to induce the + modest-looking young Indian to enter the room, “will you allow me first to + introduce my friend Waunangee to you, and then to give him a glass of + claret? Forgive the liberty I take, but I confess a good deal of + obligation to him, and would fain do the civil in return.” + </p> + <p> + “Indeed! what a set speech for a glass of wine. Give it to him by all + means, if it is only for his beautiful eyes—that is to say, if the + doctor has left any—or stay, I will get another bottle.” + </p> + <p> + “By no means,” returned the young officer, “this unconscionable man has + just left about half a tumbler foil, and I do not intend he shall have + more. Waunangee,” he pursued, after filling and presenting him with the + glass, “that is the lady of the house,” pointing to Mrs. Elmsley, “you + must drink to her health.” + </p> + <p> + “And dis you handsome squaw,” remarked the Indian, a moment or two after + having tossed off the wine, which quickly circulated through his veins. + “Dis you wife!” he repeated, throwing his expressive eyes upon Miss + Heywood, while a rich glow lighted up his dark, but finely formed + features. + </p> + <p> + “Hush!” said Ronayne, making a sign to intimate that he was not to indulge + in such observations. + </p> + <p> + But even the small quantity of wine he had taken was acting potently on + the fast animating Indian. “Dis no you squaw—dis Waunangee squaw,” + he said, with strong excitement of manner. “Waunangee, see him beautiful, + Waunangee got warm heart—love him very much!” + </p> + <p> + “Tolerably well for a modest youth!” exclaimed the laughing Mrs. Elmsley. + “Who would have thought that one with those soft black eyes, more fitted + for a woman than a man, would hazard so glowing a speech, after an + acquaintance of barely five minutes?” + </p> + <p> + “Who says Chicago doesn't abound in adventure?” sneered Von Vottenberg, as + he arose and passed into the apartment of his patient. “I shall certainly + write a book about this when I get back into the civilized world, and + entitle it 'The Loves of the Handsome Waunangee, and the Beautiful + American.'” + </p> + <p> + “You had better write 'The Loves of the Fat Von Vottenberg, and his + Mistress, Whisky Punch,'” remarked Ronayne, peevishly, for in spite of + himself, he felt annoyed at an observation, which he thought delicacy + might have spared. “Come, Waunangee, my good friend, we must go.” + </p> + <p> + But the young Indian was not so easily led. “Waunangee have him first dis + nice squaw,” he said, with all that show of dogged obstinacy which so + usually distinguishes his race, when under the influence of liquor, and + bent upon the attainment of a particular object. + </p> + <p> + “Hear me, Waunangee,” replied the other, placing his hand upon his + shoulder, and now, that Mrs. Elmsley only was present with his affianced, + feeling less scruple in explaining to the young savage—“that is my + squaw—my wife.” + </p> + <p> + “Why you no tell him so?” asked the youth, gravely, and with an air of + reproach, while, at the same time, he fixed his soft and melancholy eyes + upon Miss Heywood. “Waunangee love officer's squaw—but Waunangee + good heart. Shake him hand, my friend,” he continued, walking up to her, + and tendering his own, while, singular as it seemed to all, a tear dimmed + his eye, and stole down his cheek. “'Spose no Waunangee wife—you + Waunangee's friend?” + </p> + <p> + The generous but trembling girl, shook cordially the hand that rested in + her own, and assured the youth, in a way easily intelligible to him, that, + as the friend of her husband, and she blushed deeply, as the moment + afterwards she became sensible she had used a word, she could not but feel + to be premature, she would always regard him with friendship and esteem. + </p> + <p> + “What a nice little scene we might get up out of this morning's + adventure,” said the ever gay Mrs. Elmsley, as Waunangee, after having + shaken hands with herself, departed with Ronayne. “Really, my dear, he is + a fine looking, and certainly a warm-hearted fellow, that Wau—Wan—what's + his name, Maria?” + </p> + <p> + “Waunangee. I know not how it is, Margaret, or why—I should attach + so much importance to the thing, but if ever those glimpses of the future, + called presentiments, had foundation in truth, that young Indian is + destined to exercise some sort of influence over my fate.” + </p> + <p> + “You do not mean that he is to supplant Ronayne, I hope,” returned her + friend, trying to laugh her oat of the serious mood, in which she seemed + so much inclined to indulge. + </p> + <p> + “How can you speak so, Margaret? No, my presentiment is of a different + character. But it is very foolish and silly to allow the feeling to weigh + with me. I will try to think more rationally. Say nothing of this, + however, and least of all to Ronayne.” + </p> + <p> + “Not a word, dearest. Good bye for the present. I must look after the + dinner. You know who dines with us.” + </p> + <p> + A look expressive of the deep sense she entertained of the consideration + of her friend, was the only commentary of Miss Heywood, as she passed into + her mother's apartment. + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0011" id="link2HCH0011"> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XI. + </h2> + <p> + It was now the middle of May. A month had elapsed since the events + detailed in the preceding chapters. The recollection of the outrage at + Heywood's farm, committed early in April was fast dying away, save in the + bosoms of those more immediately interested in the fate of its proprietor, + and apprehensions of a repetition of similar atrocities had, in a great + measure, ceased. A better understanding between the commanding officer and + his subordinates—the result of a long private interview, which + Ensign Ronayne had had with the former, on the morning after his promise + to Mrs. Headley, followed by an apology on parade that day, had arisen. + Corporal Nixon was now Sergeant Nixon—Collins had succeeded to him, + and Le Noir and the boy—Catholic and Protestant—had been + buried in one grave. Ephraim Giles filled the office of factotum to Von + Vottenberg, whose love of whisky punch, was, if possible, on the increase. + Winnebeg, the bearer of confidential despatches, announcing the hostile + disposition and acts of certain of the Winnebagoes, had not returned, and + Waunangee, who, recovered from the fumes of the claret, had, in an earnest + manner, expressed to Ronayne contrition for the liberty he had taken with + Miss Heywood, had departed from the neighborhood, no one knew whither. + Harmony, in a word, had been some days restored in the Fort, and the only + thing that detracted from the general contentment, was the uncertainty + attending the fate of Mr. Heywood—regretted less, however, for his + own sake, than for that of his amiable daughter, who vainly sought to + conceal from her friends, the anxiety induced by an absence, the duration + of which it was utterly impossible to divine. As for Mrs. Heywood, she was + still in ignorance, so well had things been managed by the Elmsleys, that + any of the fearful scenes had occurred. She still believed her husband to + be at the farm. + </p> + <p> + But, as it was not likely she could much longer remain in ignorance of + what had been the subject of conversation with every one around her, it + was advised by Von Vottenberg, that, as the warmth of spring was now fully + developed, and all dread of the Indians resuming their hostile visit, at + an end, she should be conveyed back to the cottage, the pure air around + which, was much more likely to improve her health, than the confined + atmosphere of the Fort. She had accordingly been removed thither early in + May, accompanied by her daughter and Catherine. + </p> + <p> + Ronayne, of course, become once more a daily visitor, and soon beneath his + hand, the garden began again to assume the beautiful garb it had worn at + that season, for the last two years. The interviews of the lovers here, + freed from the restraints imposed upon them while in the Fort, had resumed + that fervent character which had marked them on the afternoon of the day + when they so solemnly interchanged their vows of undying faith. They now + no longer merely looked their love. They spoke of it—drank in the + sweet avowal from each others lips, and luxuriated in the sweet pleasure + it imparted. They were as the whole world to each other, and although + language could not convey a warmer expression of their feelings, than had + already gone forth from their lips, still was the repetition replete with + a sweetness that never palled upon the ear. Like the man who never tires + of gazing upon his gold, so did they never tire of the treasures of the + expressed love, that daily grew more intense in their hearts. And yet, + notwithstanding this utter devotedness of soul—notwithstanding her + flattering heart confessed in secret the fullest realization of those + dreams which had filled and sustained her in early girlhood—albeit + the assurance the felt that, in Ronayne, she had found the impersonation + of the imaginings of her maturer life, still whenever he urged her in + glowing language to name the day when she would become his wife, she + evaded an answer, not from caprice, but because she would not bring to him + a heart clouded by the slightest tinge of that anxiety with which + ignorance of her father's fate, could not fail to shade it. A painful + circumstance which happened about that period, at length, however, brought + affairs to a crisis. + </p> + <p> + It was a lovely evening towards the close of May, and after a somewhat + sultry morning which had been devoted to a ride on horseback along the + lakeshore—Mrs. Headley and Mrs. Elmsley, who had accompanied them, + having returned home, that Ronayne and his betrothed sat in the little + summer-house already described. Mrs. Heywood who had been so far recovered + from her weakness by the change of air, as to take slight exercise in the + garden, supported by her daughter, and the young officer, had on this + occasion expressed a wish to join them, in order that she might inhale the + soft breeze that blew from the south, and enjoy once more the scenery of + the long reach of the river, which wound its serpentine course from the + direction of the farm. To this desire no other objection was offered, than + what was suggested by her companions, from an apprehension that the + fatigue of the ascent would be too great for her. She, however, persisted + in her wish, declaring that she felt herself quite strong enough—an + assertion for which her returning color gave some evidence. They ceased to + oppose her. It was the first time the invalid had been in the + summer-house, since the same period the preceding spring, and naturally + associating the recollection of her husband, with the familiar objects in + the distance, she took her daughter's hand, and said in a low and husky + voice, that proved how much she had overrated her own strength: + </p> + <p> + “How is it, Maria, my love, that we have seen nothing of your father, + lately? I have never known him, since we have been in this part of the + country, to be so long absent from us at one time.” + </p> + <p> + “Nay, dear mamma,” returned the pained girl, the tears starting to her + eyes, in spite of her efforts to restrain them, “I do not exactly know + what can detain him. Perhaps he is not at the farm,” and here her tears + forced their way—“you know, dearest mamma, that he is very fond of + long hunting excursions.” + </p> + <p> + “Yes, but, my child, why do you weep? Surely there is nothing in that to + produce such emotion. He will soon be back again.” + </p> + <p> + “Oh! yes, I hope so. Forgive me, my dear mamma, but I have a very bad + head-ache, and never felt more nervous than I do this evening. Perhaps it + is the effect of my ride in the heat of the sun. Shall we go on. It is + nearly sunset, and I dread your being exposed to the night-air.” + </p> + <p> + “Oh! it is so delicious,” softly returned the invalid; “I feel as if I had + not lived for the last twelve months, until now. Only a little while + longer, shall I not, Mr. Ronayne? Perhaps I may never have an opportunity + of ascending to this summer-house again.” + </p> + <p> + During this short conversation, trifling in itself, but conveying, under + the circumstances, so much subject for deep and painful reflections, the + young officer had evinced much restlessness of manner, yet without + interposing any other remark than to join Miss Heywood's entreaties that + her mother would suffer herself to be conducted home, before the dew + should begin to fall. In order, moreover, as much as possible to leave + them uninterrupted in the indulgence of their feelings, he had from the + first risen, and stood with his back to them, within the entrance of the + summer house, and was now, with a view to drown their conversation to his + own ear, whistling to Loup Garou, sitting on his haunches outside the + garden-gate, looking fixedly at him. + </p> + <p> + Touched by the account he had received of the fidelity of the dog, he, + had, with the consent of Sergeant Nixon, who was glad to secure for his + favorite so kind a protector, become possessed of him from the moment of + his return home; and time, which had in some degree blunted the sorrow of + the animal for the loss of one master, rendered equally keen his instinct + of attachment for the other. Within the month he had been his, every care + had been taken by Ronayne himself, as well as by his servant, to wean the + mourner from the grave of Le Noir, on which, for the first few days, he + had lain, absorbed in grief—refusing all food, until, yielding at + length to the voice of kindness, his memory of the past seemed to have + faded wholly away. + </p> + <p> + Ronayne, however, from a fear of exciting unpleasant recollections in + those who were not ignorant of the former position of the dog, had + endeavoured as much as possible, to prevent him from crossing the river + during his visits to the cottage; but, within the last four or five days, + Loup Garou would not thus be kept back, and when expelled from the boat, + had swam across, taking up his station at the gate, beyond which, however, + he did not presume to pass, as if sensible that the delicate parterres + within, were interdicted ground, and there generally lay squatted with his + nose resting on the grass, between his outstretched fore-paws, until his + master came forth on his return home. + </p> + <p> + The unexpected and encouraging whistle of the latter on this occasion, + which had been given in pure unconsciousness, caused him to prick his + ears, and uttering a sharp cry, he sprang over the gate, bounding rapidly + towards the eminence on which his master stood. About half-way between its + base and the summit, there was a beautiful rose-bush which had been + planted by Ronayne, and from which he had plucked two flowers, for the + mother and daughter, during the ascent, and presented with a hand that was + observed by Maria Heywood to tremble, and a cheek unwontedly pale. + </p> + <p> + On arriving opposite the rose-tree, the animal suddenly stopped, and + putting his nose to the ground close under it, and sniffing almost + furiously, uttered a prolonged and melancholy howl, while, with his + fore-paws he began to scratch up the loose earth around, regardless of the + voice of his master, who renewed his whistling, and called upon him almost + angrily to desist. + </p> + <p> + Alarmed at this perseverance of action, the ensign descended to the spot—laid + hands on Loup Garou, and sought to remove him, but the animal, strong of + neck—full in the chest—and on the present occasion, under the + influence of furious impulse, was not to be restrained. + </p> + <p> + The moaning of the dog—the descent-the corrective voice of his + master, and the seeming struggle of both to attain opposite purposes, + naturally attracted the attention of those above, and they both rose and + neared to the doorway Ronayne had so recently quitted. Their horror may + well be imagined when, on looking down, they found that the dog had + already uncovered a human body, which, though disfigured and partially + decomposed, filial and conjugal affection too clearly distinguished as the + father of the one, the husband of the other! + </p> + <p> + Uttering a feeble shriek, Mrs. Heywood fell insensible within the + threshold of the summer-house, while her daughter, less overwhelmed, but + with feelings impossible to describe, stooped and chafed her mother's + temples, and notwithstanding a horrid thought, which, despite her own + will, shot through her mind, that the man to whom she had given every + affection of her heart, was in some degree connected with this horrid + spectacle, she called vehemently to him for assistance. + </p> + <p> + The situation of the perplexed officer was scarcely less painful. On the + one hand, feeling all the necessity of retaining his grasp of Loup Garou, + as the only means of preventing him from further uncovering of the body—on + the other, urged by the summons of her, whom he knew, from her very + manner, to be in possession of this fearful secret, his mind become a + perfect chaos, and large drops of perspiration streamed from his brow. In + this irritating dilemma, a sudden transport of rage took possession of his + heart, and seizing Loup Garou with both his hands, he so compressed them + around his throat, that the dog, already exhausted with his exertions, was + half-strangled before being raised with a frantic effort, and dashed with + violence upon the body he had so unhappily been instrumental in + discovering. + </p> + <p> + Scarcely had this been done—a low moaning from Loup Garou, as if + reproaching him for the act, alone denoting that he breathed, when the + ensign flew up the steps of the summer-house, and regardless of the + involuntary half-shudder of his betrothed, as he approached, caught the + insensible invalid in his arms, and so carrying her, that her eyes, if she + should open them, could not encounter the horrid spectacle below, again + rapidly descended, and hurried towards the house. Maria Heywood, on + passing the rose-tree so recently prized, but now so abhorrent to her + sight, could not resist a strong impulse to look upon the mysteries so + strangely unveiled, but although the twilight had not yet passed away, + nothing could be seen but the displaced earth, and stretched over the + excavation he himself had made, the motionless body of the dog. + </p> + <p> + Sick at heart, and with wild and unconnected images floating through her + heated brain, she followed almost mechanically to the cottage. + </p> + <p> + This was no time for ceremony. When answering the loud ring, Catherine + appeared hurriedly at the door, Ronayne bore his inanimate charge into her + bedroom, and in silence and deep grief, sought, by every means in his + power, to restore her. But all his efforts proving vain, he, in a state of + mind difficult to describe, tore a leaf from his pocket-book, wrote a few + hurried lines to Elmsley, requesting him to allow his wife to come over + immediately with Von Vottenberg, and when they had departed, to call upon + Captain Headley and explain the cause of his absence. This note he gave to + Catherine, with instructions to cross in the boat which was waiting for + himself, and to return with Mrs. Elmsley, or if she did not come, with the + doctor. + </p> + <p> + When left together, beside the insensible body of Mrs. Heywood, the lovers + experienced for the first time, a feeling of restraint, for in the hearts + of both, were passing thoughts which neither seemed desirous of imparting. + But, Maria Heywood, gentle as she was, was not of a character long to + endure the state of uncertainty under which she labored. The strange wild + apprehensions which had arisen, she knew not how or why, had so preyed + upon her quiet, that suspense became intolerable, and at length, + addressing her lover in a voice, never more melancholy or touching than at + that moment, and looking at him with an expression of deep sadness, while + the large tears trickled down her cheeks. + </p> + <p> + “Ronayne, you know—you must have known—your whole conduct + throughout this affair, proves you must have known of my poor father's + death, and of his rude—almost insulting burial in that fatal spot. + How he came hither, you best can tell. Oh! Harry, it is very cruel thus to + have reposed the confidence of the entire soul, and then to have been + disappointed. This cruel discovery will be the means of destroying my + peace forever, unless you give the explanation which alone can restore our + confidence in each other—yet how can I, with these glaring truths + before my eyes, expect that you will?” + </p> + <p> + “Insulting burial! oh, Maria, I feel that I never loved you more than now + when you would break my heart with this unkindness.” He bent his head upon + the same pillow, upon which reclined the unconscious head of the mother of + the woman whom he so ardently loved, and wept tears of bitterness and + sorrow. + </p> + <p> + “I cannot stand this, Ronayne, dear Ronayne, whatever you be—whatever + you may have done, I love you with all the ardor of the most devoted soul! + But,” she continued, more composedly, “forgive me, if my feelings and my + judgment are at issue. One question I must ask, cost what it may, for I + cannot longer endure this agony of suspense—no, for your sake I + cannot endure it. How is it that you have always made a secret—a + mystery even to me, of the motive of your absence on that fatal night + succeeding the massacre at the firm.” + </p> + <p> + “Dear Maria. I can well forgive the question in the excitement which must + have been produced in you by the startling events of this evening.” + </p> + <p> + “Ronayne,” she mournfully interrupted—“your sudden interference with + the dog—your struggle with him—nay, your very manner of + speaking now, convince me that you knew my father lay buried beneath that + rose-tree. In candor, answer me. Yes or no.” + </p> + <p> + “And, admitting I had had that knowledge, Maria—can you imagine no + good reason for my forbearing all allusion to the subject?” + </p> + <p> + “Yet, why conceal the fact from one who had supposed you could have no + concealment from her—and then again, how am I to reconcile the + circumstance of my poor father having been reported to be a prisoner—a + report which, sanctioned by yourself, left me not utterly hopeless—and + the fact of his burial here—evidently with your knowledge.” + </p> + <p> + “Maria,” returned Ronayne, impressively, and with an expression of much + pain at the remark, “as I have already said, I can make every allowance, + in recollection of the painful scene of which I have, in some degree, been + the cause, but is it generous—is it quite appreciating my character + and my feelings towards yourself, to doubt that I had intended from the + first, and at a fitting moment, to explain every thing to you?” + </p> + <p> + Again was the confidence of the generous girl established, and with almost + passionate warmth, she exclaimed. “Oh! Ronayne, forgive—forgive me, + but this melancholy—this harrowing occurrence has made me so far not + myself—that I almost hate myself. Tell me, dear Ronayne, do you + forgive me?” + </p> + <p> + “Yes, from the bottom of my soul, do I forgive you, and yet, dearest, + there is nothing to forgive, for how could it be otherwise, than that your + poor and sorely tried heart should be subjected to wild imaginings + inexplicable to yourself. The ordeal to which you have been submitted, is + a severe one, but I am sure your oppressed heart will be greatly lightened + when you shall have been in possession of the truth connected with this + most melancholy affair—your regard for me, will if possible, be even + greater than before. Pardon this seeming vanity. I make the assertion + because I know it will not a little console you, under this terrible + infliction.” + </p> + <p> + It was a strange sight, that of these lovers, hitherto so devoted and now + only temporarily half-doubting, talking of the fate of one parent while + leaning over the apparent death-bed of the other. + </p> + <p> + “Ronayne, dear Ronayne, I am satisfied—fully, wholly satisfied, and + as you observe, the assurance which you have now given me, will form my + chief support under this double affliction,” and she pointed, weeping, to + her mother, whose scarcely perceptible breathing alone attested that she + lived. + </p> + <p> + “Maria,” he said tenderly and gravely, as he took her hand in his, over + the invalid—“the hour of your promise is come—the fate of your + father is known—would that it had been less abruptly revealed—and + were other inducement to keep it wanting, is it not to be found here? But + at this moment I will ask nothing which you may feel reluctance in + granting. To-morrow we will speak of this again—to-morrow you shall + know how much I have sought—how much I have risked—to soften + the pang which I knew would, soon or late be inflicted on her whom I so + love.” + </p> + <p> + “Generous—kind—considerate Ronayne, I can fully understand + you, yet, ah! what must you think of me, who could for a moment doubt your + power to explain every act of your life, however ambiguous in appearance. + But what is that paper you have taken from your pocket-book?” + </p> + <p> + “One that I have long designed for your perusal. It was written a few days + after the events at the farm, and I have since then frequently determined + to place it in your hands in order that, in the sacredness of solitude, + you might indulge in the bitter tears its few pages will wring from you; + but too selfish—yes, selfish, and severely am I punished for it—to + suffer the joy of the hour to be broken in upon by sadness, I have + hitherto delayed putting you in possession of that which, if only + communicated a day earlier, would have spared us this painful scene. But I + hear footsteps approaching. They must be those of Mrs. Elmsley and the + doctor, with Catherine. Be not surprised, dearest, if I leave you soon + after they enter, for I have something to do this evening which will + require my presence in the Fort. Early in the morning, however, I shall be + here.” + </p> + <p> + “I understand well what demands your presence elsewhere,” she returned + with a look of deep gratitude and love. “Oh! Ronayne, whatever may + happen,” and the tears streamed down her pale face, as she pointed to her + mother—“hear me declare that whatever you may ask of me one month + hence, I shall not consider myself justified in refusing.” + </p> + <p> + Scarcely had he time to impress upon her lips his deep but chastened sense + of happiness, when the party expected, entered the room—Von + Vottenberg immediately applying himself to an examination of the patient, + whose condition, it was evident from his unusually grave look, he + conceived to be highly critical. + </p> + <p> + Dreading to hear his opinion pronounced in the presence of his betrothed, + and the more so, because he had in some degree been its cause, the young + officer, after having warmly shaken hands with Mrs. Elmsley, whom he + thanked for her prompt attention, urged her to do all in her power to + soothe Maria, to whom, at parting, he also offered his hand, while his eye + was eloquent with the feelings he could not well openly express. + </p> + <p> + He first directed his course towards the rose-bush, and approached it with + a feeling almost similar to what would have been experienced by him, had + he been the actual murderer of Mr. Heywood. Loup Garou was sitting + crouched near the head and was so far recovered as to growl rather + fiercely at him, as he approached. On hearing the voice of his master, not + in anger but in conciliation, he arose, slightly wagged his tail, and came + forward slowly and crouching, as if in dread of further punishment, his + lip uncurled, showing all his upper teeth, and with a short, quick sneeze, + peculiar to his half-wolf-blooded race. + </p> + <p> + Calling gently to the animal, he preceded him to the gate, desiring him to + wait there until he returned—an injunction evidently understood by + the dog, which, crouching down in his accustomed posture, ventured not to + move. With the small spud, already alluded to, and then near the + rose-tree, he put back in small quantities the displaced earth, until the + ghastly face, indistinctly seen in the star-light, was again wholly hidden + from view. This done, he approached the bank of the river, followed by the + dog, and gave a shrill whistle, which, without being answered, speedily + brought over the boat in which he now embarked for the opposite shore. + </p> + <p> + His first care was to seek Elmsley, who, as officer of the guard, was up + accoutred for duty, and was now looking over an old “Washington + Intelligencer,” that had been read at least a dozen times before, while he + smoked his pipe and sipped from a bowl of whisky punch, which Von + Vottenberg had just finished brewing, when so suddenly summoned to the + cottage. + </p> + <p> + After Ronayne had detailed to his friend the occurrences of the evening, + and communicated his views, they both issued forth to the guard-room, + where Sergeant Nixon happened to be upon duty. With the latter, a brief + conversation was held by Ronayne, ending with an injunction for him to + come to Lieutenant Elmsley's quarters and announce to him (the former), + when certain arrangements which had been agreed upon, were completed. + </p> + <p> + Returned to the abode of the latter, the young officer required no very + great pressing to induce him to join his superior in the beverage, to + which anxiety of mind not less than fatigue of body had so much disposed + him, yet of which both partook moderately. While so employed, and awaiting + the appearance of the sergeant, Ronayne, who had now no motive for further + mystery or concealment, detailed at the request of his friend, but in much + more succinct terms than he had done in the paper he had handed to Maria + Heywood, the circumstances connected with his absence from the Fort, on + the night of the attack upon the farm, and the means taken by him to + attain the object in which he had been thwarted by Captain Headley. + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0012" id="link2HCH0012"> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XII. + </h2> + <p> + “You dam Yankee, stop Injin when him go wigwam,” commenced Ronayne, rising + at the same time and imitating the action of one unsteady from + intoxication. “'Spose tell him gubbernor?” + </p> + <p> + “Ah! you horrid wretch—I see it all now, yet could I have been so + imposed upon? You then were the pretended drunken Indian I let out that + night? Upon my word, Master Ronayne. I never will forgive you for that + trick.” + </p> + <p> + “Yes you will, old fellow. It was the only way to save you from a scrape, + but I confess I have often since laughed in my sleeve at the recollection + of the manner in which I deceived you.” + </p> + <p> + “Hang me if you didn't play your part to admiration, but the best of the + jest is, that on reporting the circumstance to Headley, on the following + morning, he said I had acted perfectly right; so had you known this when + you had that scene on the parade, you might have pleaded his sanction. + However, all that is over. Now then for your adventure.” + </p> + <p> + “The tale is soon told,” began Ronayne. “On the evening when you and Von + Vottenberg were so busy, the one in concocting his whisky-punch—the + other in cutting up the Virginia, I was sacking my brain for a means to + accomplish my desire to reach the farm, where I had a strong presentiment, + from the lateness of the hour, without bringing any tidings of them, the + fishing-party were, with Mr. Heywood and his people, in a state of siege, + and I at length decided on what seemed to me to be the only available + plan. I was not sorry to see you leave after taking your second glass, for + I knew that I should have little difficulty in sewing up the doctor, whose + tumbler I repeatedly filled, and made him drink off after sundry toasts, + while he did not perceive—or was by no means sorry if he did—that + I merely sipped from my own. When I thought he had swallowed enough to + prevent him from interfering with my project, I bade him good night and + left him, knowing well that in less than ten minutes he would be asleep. + Instead, however, of going to bed, I hastened at once to preliminaries, + having first got rid of my servant whom I did not wish to implicate, by + making him acquainted with my intended absence. But tell me, did you + examine my room at all the next day?” + </p> + <p> + “I did.” + </p> + <p> + “And found nothing missing?” + </p> + <p> + “Nothing. I scouted everywhere, and found only yourself wanting—the + bed unrumpled, and everything in perfect bachelor order.” + </p> + <p> + “And that leather dress, my dear fellow, in which I once paid a visit to + the camp of Winnebeg, from whose squaw, indeed, I had bought it. You know + it generally hangs against the wall at the foot of my bed.” + </p> + <p> + “Ah! now I recollect, that was not there certainly, although I did not + notice its absence then—so then, that was the dress you went out in, + and I such a goose as not to remark it.” + </p> + <p> + “Because you know that I had had the precaution to throw a blanket over it + in the most approved Pottawattamie style, while my features were colored + with gambouge and Indian ink.” + </p> + <p> + “Well, say no more about that—I am ashamed to have been so taken in + by a Johnny Raw. We will now suppose you kicked out of the Fort. Did I not + kick you out,” he added humorously, “and say, begone, you drunken dog, and + never show your ugly face here again!” + </p> + <p> + “On the contrary,” returned his junior in the same mocking strain, “you + were but too glad to be civil when I threatened you with the 'gubbernor!'” + </p> + <p> + “Once out of the Fort,” he gravely continued, “my course was plain. I + immediately went to the wigwam of Winnebeg, whom I found seated, with his + toes almost in the embers of an expiring fire, and smoking his last pipe + previous to wrapping himself up for the night in his blanket. You may + imagine his surprise, when, after some little difficulty, he recognized in + that garb, and at that hour, particularly after the events of the day, + with which he had been made acquainted by Mr. Frazer, before the latter, + with his family, took refuge in the Fort. Still, true to the dignified + reserve of his race, he concealed as much as possible what was passing in + his mind, and made me sit by his side, near which, I have omitted to say, + was an extremely handsome young Indian, whom he presented to me as his + son, and then bade me tell him the object of my visit. + </p> + <p> + “Of course I knew enough of Indian etiquette to be satisfied that I should + gain by not attempting to hurry matters, and I accordingly suppressed my + own impatience while taking a few whiffs from the pipe he courteously + offered to me. Winnebeg then received it back, and while he sat with his + eyes fixed intently on the fire, puffed away in an attitude of profound + attention which encouraged me to proceed. + </p> + <p> + “When he had heard all I had to say in regard to the fears I entertained + for the absent party—for I did not confine my profession of interest + to ONE—my vain application to the commandant, and my strong reliance + upon him to send a party of his young men with me to the farm, his eye + suddenly kindled—his countenance assumed a more animated expression, + and removing the pipe from his lips, and puffing forth a more than usual + volume of smoke, he cordially shook my hands, saying something in Indian + to his son, who immediately sprang to his feet, and disappeared from the + tent. + </p> + <p> + “After a lapse of time which seemed to me as an age, the youth re-appeared + with a dozen young warriors, all armed and decked in their war paint. They + remained grouped round the entrance for a few minutes, while Waunangee + changed his own dress, and Winnebeg provided me with a rifle, tomahawk and + scalping-knife. Thus accoutred I took the lead with the former, and after + cautiously creeping through the encampment, passed along the skirt of the + wood that almost overhung the river. We moved off at a quick walk, but + soon our pace increased to a half-run, so anxious were we all to get to + the farm. + </p> + <p> + “We had not proceeded more than half-way when we saw a small boat, which I + immediately distinguished as that belonging to the fishing-party, slowly + descending the river. The Indians simultaneously, and as if governed by + one common instinct, dropped flat on the ground, as I supposed to remain + unseen until the boat should come opposite to them, while I, uncertain by + whom it was occupied, and anxious to ascertain, after whispering a few + words to Waunangee, moved cautiously in advance along the shore. When I + had crept up about fifty yards, I could distinctly see that it was one of + our men, and I immediately hailed to know who he was, and where the + remainder of the party were. + </p> + <p> + “Scarcely had he answered 'Collins,' and commenced a few words of + explanation of the cause of his being there and alone, when the forms of + two Indians, which I fancied I had before detected creeping along the + shore, regulating their stealthy progress by that of the boat, started + into full height, and silently bounded towards me—one a little in + advance of the other. The moment was critical. They were not twenty paces + from me, and I have often since wondered at the presence of mind I + preserved. It occurred to me that they would not commit the imprudence of + using firearms so near the Fort, and that steel only would be resorted to + by them. This suggested my own course. Throwing my rifle upon the beach in + order that Collins, who was now pulling for the shore, might seize and use + it as occasion should require, I grasped the scalping-knife in my left + hand, and with my tomahawk in my right, did not wait for the attack, but + rushed upon the foremost Indian, for I knew that my only chance of success + lay in the killing or disabling of one before his comrade could come up. + At the same time, both to apprise Waunangee of my position, and to daunt + my adversaries, I uttered one of these tremendous yells, you know I so + well can imitate, and receiving the blow of his tomahawk upon my own, + thrown up in true military guard, plunged my knife into his body with such + suddenness and force, that on examining it afterwards, I found that at + least half an inch of the tapering handle had followed the blade. The + savage fell dead without uttering a groan, a sight which, instead of + checking the advance of his companion, rather urged him to revenge his + fall. He had now come up with me, brandishing his tomahawk, when I put + myself again on my guard, purposing to use my knife as I had done before, + but at the very moment when the descent of his weapon was expected by me, + he was suddenly seized from behind, raised from his feet, and thrown upon + the ground. This was the act of Collins, who had gained the shore just + after the first Indian fell, and had flown to my assistance. + </p> + <p> + “At the same moment, Waunangee, who, with his warriors had started up on + hearing my loud yell of defiance, came quickly to the spot, and they were + not a little astounded to see an Indian, whom they instantly pronounced to + be a Winnebago, lying motionless at my feet, nor was their respect for me + at all lessened, when on handing my scalping-knife from one to the other, + they perceived what a proficient I was in the use of their own favorite + weapon. + </p> + <p> + “Of course I was not silly enough to detract from my own glory, by + admitting that it was as much the result of accident as of design. They + made signs for me to scalp him, but having no particular desire to possess + this trophy of my successful hand to hand encounter, one of the young men + asked me to waive my right in his favor. This I did, and the scalp of the + Winnebago was soon dangling from his waist. The other spoils I did not + object to, and his rifle, tomahawk, and knife are now in Winnebago's tent, + until there offers a favorable opportunity of bringing them to my + quarters. But to proceed. + </p> + <p> + “So much time had been passed in the examination of the body of the slain + Winnebago, that his comrade had found ample time to escape. The + Pottawattamies had not seen him, and Collins, after having temporarily + disabled him, had run up to afford me further assistance, on seeing + advancing in the rear, those whom he took to be of the same hostile party. + Thus left unwatched, the savage had managed to creep away into the wood, + and when attention was at length drawn to him, he was not to be seen. + </p> + <p> + “When Collins had explained the position of the party at the farm, whose + danger, on finding himself of no service there, he was then on his way to + report, I proposed to Waunangee that half of his warriors should ascend by + land, while the remainder with himself, accompanied me in the boat. We + accordingly separated, and made what haste we could to our destination—the + party on shore regulating their progress by that of the boat. During the + descent my anxiety was very great, for my whole soul was bent upon the + attainment of one object—that of restoring Mr. Heywood unharmed to + his family. But the absence of all sound indicating conflict was by no + means favorable, and I had already begun to fear that the silence which + prevailed, was but the result of victory on the part of the hostile band + who had departed, when suddenly the loud, fierce yell of disappointment + which burst from them, as I have since understood, when a ladder by which + they attempted to enter was thrown from the roof by Nixon, rang + encouragingly upon my ear, and urged me to increased exertion. Our + progress, however, was by no means proportioned to my anxiety, for somehow + or other, only two oars were in the boat, and, as the Indians did not much + care or know how to pull in time, the task devolved wholly upon Collins + and myself. At length, just as the day was beginning to dawn, we reached + the farm-house, about a hundred yards beyond which we put in and landed, + making a detour by the barn, so as to meet the remainder of our little + force in the rear, and thus to place the enemy, if actually surrounding + the house, between two fires. + </p> + <p> + “After waiting, however, some little time, and finding every thing quiet, + my apprehensions increased, for, although not the sign of a Winnebago + could be seen, so profound was the stillness within, that I began to think + the whole of the party had been either captured or murdered. Suddenly, + however, while hesitating as to the course to be pursued—for I + feared that if the party were all right, and the enemy departed, they + might fire upon us as we approached—I saw a man in American undress + uniform, whom I had no difficulty in recognizing as Corporal Nixon, issue + from the back of the house with a basket in his hands, and turning the + corner with an appearance of much caution, make hastily for the river. + Directing Waunangee, whose two bands had now joined, and were then lying + closely concealed in the barn, to enter the house as cautiously and + noiselessly as possible, I hastened after Nixon, from whom, after + recovering from his first fright at finding himself unarmed, and in the + power of one whom he naturally took for one of his recent assailants, I + received a brief account of all that had occurred. On entering the house + with him, shortly afterwards, what a contrast was present—on the one + hand the ludicrous—the horrible on the other. + </p> + <p> + “Close within the doorway lay the dead body of Mr. Heywood—” + </p> + <p> + “The dead body of Mr. Heywood!” exclaimed Elmsley, starting from his chair + in almost dismay at the intelligence. “How comes it, Ronayne, that you + have never spoken of this before?” + </p> + <p> + “No interruption, Elmsley—hear me to the close—close within + the doorway, I repeat, lay the dead body of Mr. Heywood—his face + much disfigured—and his large frame almost rigid in a pool of + clotted blood. Imagine what a sight this was to me, whose sole object and + hope it had been to restore the father in safety to the daughter, although + at intervals during the route, I had more than once dreaded something of + the sort. Stupefied at the spectacle, I felt my heart to sicken, as the + idea of the grief by which Maria would be overwhelmed when this sad tale + should be revealed to her, rose to my imagination. But even then my + presence of mind did not desert me, and I already determined on what was + to be done. In some degree consoled by this, I raised my glance from the + body to observe what further atrocity had been committed. Three or four + Indians were grouped around, evidently regarding the corpse with deep + interest, for Mr. Heywood had often hunted with them, and given them + refreshments when stopping to rest at his place, while on their way to the + Fort laden with game. Further on the great body of Waunangee's people were + standing leaning on their rifles, and enjoying the mistake of three of our + fellows, who naturally taking them, from the great resemblance of dress, + to be their enemies who had obtained an entrance, were holding aloft, in + an attitude of defiance—one a huge poker thrust through the carcass + of an enormous bird, and two others a blackened leg and wing, evidently + belonging to the same animal, which they ever and anon brandished over + their heads, while their eyes were rivetted on the dusky forms before + them. The wooden partition sustained their muskets, from which the + interposing Indians had cut them off, and against the front door of the + house, which was closed and barred, leaned the only armed man of the + party, deprived, however, of all power of action.” + </p> + <p> + “What a scene for some American Hogarth!” interrupted the lieutenant, “and + how graphically you have described it. I can see the picture before me + now.” + </p> + <p> + “I confess,” answered Ronayne, “I could not even, amid all my own painful + feelings, suppress a smile at its extreme absurdity, for the appearance of + three men seeking to defend themselves from what they believed to be + fierce and blood-thirsty enemies, with the burnt carcass and limbs of an + old turkey-cock, was such a burlesque on the chivalrous, that, knowing as + I did how little their supposed enemy was to be dreaded, I could not + suppress thoughts which, while they forced themselves upon me, I was angry + at allowing myself to entertain. To understand the scene fully, you must + have looked on it yourself. Had I recounted this to you yesterday, or even + this morning, I could have filled up the picture more grotesquely, and yet + not less truly. But now I have too great a weight on my spirits to give + more than a simple sketch. + </p> + <p> + “At the announcement of my name and purpose, the statue at the door became + suddenly disenchanted—the legs and wings fell—a man dropped + lightly from the loft, musket in hand, and Cass only, with his gaze + intently fixed on the mocking savages before him, of whom he took me + indeed to be one, continued his defensive attitude with the poker, nor was + it until I had advanced and taken his weapon from him, amid the loud + laughter of the young Indians, that he finally came to his senses. And + yet, after all, poor devil, his distrust was but natural. + </p> + <p> + “No time was to be lost. While some of the men were, according to my + instructions, wrapping in a blanket the body of Mr. Heywood, after + removing from it what blood they could, and the others bore to the boat + the unfortunate Le Noir, whom I had not at first distinguished, so + completely had he been covered over by his dog and walnut blossoms, I took + the corporal aside, and explained to him how important it was that nothing + should be known at the Fort of the fate of Mr. Heywood. On his asking what + he should say if questioned, I desired him (with some hesitation, I + confess, for I knew I was setting a bad example to the men, which only the + peculiar circumstances of the case could justify), to give an evasive + answer, and say that the Indians had carried him off with them, which + indeed would be the fact, as I intended him to be borne away by the party + I had brought. I told him, moreover, that at a fitting opportunity, I + would explain every thing to Captain Headley, and take all the + responsibility upon myself. + </p> + <p> + “On his promptly saying that he would, I added that the men of his party + should be made acquainted with my wish, and asked if I might depend upon + their secrecy. He replied that there was not a man among them who did not + so love Miss Heywood, as to run the risk of any punishment, rather than + utter one word that could be the means of giving her pain, and that while + on the way down he would take care to warn them. + </p> + <p> + “Elmsley, I was touched at this—almost to tears—for it was a + source of proud yet tender pleasure to me—much more so than I can + express—to know that Maria was so great a favorite with these + rude-hearted fellows. Assured that every thing was right, I told the + corporal to embark his men immediately, and pull for the Fort, while I, + with Waunangee and his Indians proceeded by land with the body of Mr. + Heywood. + </p> + <p> + “'Don't you think, sir,' said the corporal, hesitatingly, as he prepared + to execute my orders—'don't you think it would be well for the + ladies' sake that they should not be reminded of the name of this place, + more than can be helped?' + </p> + <p> + “'Undoubtedly, Nixon, but what do you mean?' + </p> + <p> + “'Why, sir, I mean that as poor Mr. Heywood never can be here again, it + would be better nothing should be left to remind them of the bloody doings + of yesterday.' + </p> + <p> + “'And what other name would you give it?' I asked. + </p> + <p> + “'If it was left to me, Mr. Ronayne,' replied the corporal; 'I would call + it HARDSCRABBLE, on account of the hard struggle the fellows must have had + with Mr. Heywood, judging from his wounds and his broken rifle, before + they mastered him.' + </p> + <p> + “'Then, HARDSCRABBLE be it,' I said, 'not that I can really see it will + make much difference in calling the thing to mind, yet it would scarcely + be fair to deny to you, who have so bravely defended the place, the + privilege of giving it a new name, if the old one is to be abandoned.' + </p> + <p> + “'Thank you, sir,' returned Nixon, 'but if you hadn't come to our + assistance, I don't know what the upshot might have been, I suspect that + fellow whose comrade you killed, sent them off sooner than they intended.' + </p> + <p> + “'No more of that, Nixon—and now do you remember what you are to say + when you get back to the Fort?' + </p> + <p> + “'I do, sir, and every man shall be told to say as I do—but about + the new name, Mr. Ronayne,' he pursued, returning, after he had gone a few + paces, 'do you think, sir, Mrs. Heywood will consent to it?' + </p> + <p> + “'My good fellow,' I answered, 'recollect that Mrs. Heywood must know + nothing about it—at least for the present. I will settle all that + later. In the mean time, as you have called it HARDSCRABBLE, so let it + remain.' + </p> + <p> + “And HARDSCRABBLE that scene of blood is called to this hour. + </p> + <p> + “I had at first apprehended,” pursued Ronayne, “that the Indians would + evince disinclination to carry the body so long a distance, or even at + all, but on Waunangee explaining my desire, they all to my surprise, + expressed even eagerness to meet my wishes, for, as he assured me, the + young men looked upon me as a great warrior who had achieved a deed of + heroism that might procure the distinction of a chief, and entitling me to + their services in all things. + </p> + <p> + “I certainly thought my honors cheaply enough purchased; however I was but + too glad to appropriate to myself the respect and good-will which the + killing of the Winnebago had entailed—and matters were soon + arranged. + </p> + <p> + “The body having been removed outside, and the doors secured as well as, + under the circumstances, could be done, one of the warriors cut from a + tree in the adjacent wood, a semi-circular piece of tough and flexible + bark, about six feet in length, and in the hollow of this, the murdered + father of Maria Heywood, already swathed tightly in a blanket, was placed. + A long pole was then passed through the equidistant loops of cord that + encircled the whole, and two of the Indians having, with the assistance of + their companions, raised it upon their shoulders, it was thus borne—the + parties being relieved at intervals—over the two long miles of road + that led to the skirt of the woods near the encampment. Here the body of + Indians stopped, while Waunangee and myself repaired to the tent of his + father, who no sooner had heard detailed by his son the account of my + Winnebago killing practice of the preceding evening, than he overwhelmed + me with congratulations, and looked proudly on the knife, still stained + with a spot or two of blood, which I returned to him, and which he + restored to its usual resting-place on his hip. + </p> + <p> + “Perceiving that Winnebeg was, like his young men, ready to do any thing + for me. I explained to him my desire to convey the body of Mr. Heywood + across the river, and bury him secretly in his own grounds, but that it + was necessary, in order to do this effectually, that he and his son should + go with me, and by some circuitous route. Entering at once into my views, + he said he would show me a place where we could cross without being seen + either from the Fort or from his own encampment, and then led the way back + to the wood where the party were still waiting. + </p> + <p> + “The rest is soon told. Dismissing the young men into the encampment. + Winnebeg, with his son, bore the body within the skirt of the wood, until + we reached a bend of the river hidden from observation, where a canoe with + paddles was drawn up on the beach. There we crossed, and going round to + the rear of the cottage, entered the garden, and proceeded to the upper + end, where at the summer house, near a favorite rose-tree of Maria's, I + dug with my own hands a hasty grave, in which Winnebeg and Waunangee + placed the body—its only coffin being the bark that was swathed + around it. Of course I always intended to disinter it at some future, but + not distant period, and bestow upon it the usual rites of burial. + </p> + <p> + “This painful task accomplished, and the soil having been carefully + replaced, so as to leave no inequality of surface, I accompanied my + friends back by the same route, and about nine o'clock left the + Pottawattamie encampment with them and a few other warriors of the tribe + for the Fort, which in the crowd I entered without difficulty or creating + suspicion. Watching my opportunity, I stole to the rear of my bed-room—opened + and entered the window—changed my dress, and made my appearance on + parade as you saw.” + </p> + <p> + “All is ready, sir,” said Sergeant Nixon, entering just as he had + concluded, and before Elmsley could offer any remark on this singular + adventure—“the coffin is in the scow, and Corporal Collins, Green + and Philips are there also with their shovels, ropes, and picks. If Mr. + Elmsley will give me permission,” and he touched his cap to that officer. + “I will go too, sir.” + </p> + <p> + “As sergeant of the guard—no, Nixon, my good fellow, that will never + do. The three men you have named, are, with myself, quite enough. Be on + the look-out though, to let us in on our return. Have you provided a dark + lantern?” + </p> + <p> + “Yes, sir, Collins has the lantern belonging to the guard house.” + </p> + <p> + “Good. I will follow you in a moment, Elmsley,” he continued, rising and + draining off his half-emptied glass, “lend me your prayer-book. I wish + that you could be present at this dismal ceremony, but of course that is + wholly out of the question.” + </p> + <p> + “It is, indeed, my dear fellow. It would never do for us both to be + absent. Not only ourselves but the men would be brought into the scrape, + for you know Headley always sleeps with one eye open.” + </p> + <p> + “I do not like to do any thing clandestinely,” remarked the ensign—“particularly + after our reconciliation with him. Moreover, it is, as you say, in some + degree compromising the men and myself with them. I have a great mind + before I start to see and explain every thing to Headley, and obtain his + sanction to my absence.” + </p> + <p> + “Nonsense,” returned his friend, “he will never know it; besides it is + possible that he may refuse to let you go before morning, and your object + is, of course, to have every thing finished to-night. Take my advice; go + without speaking to him on the subject, and if your remorse of + conscience,” and he smiled archly, “be so great afterwards, as to deprive + you of more rest and appetite than you lost after killing that poor devil + of a Winnebago, go to him as you did before—confess that you have + again been a naughty boy—ask his pardon, and I am sure he will + forgive the crime.” + </p> + <p> + “Well, I believe you are right. Be it so. Adieu, I shall be back within a + couple of hours at the latest.” + </p> + <p> + “If you do, you will in all probability find me still poring over this old + Intelligencer, which is full of rumors of approaching war with the + British.” + </p> + <p> + “I shall be more inclined to hug my pillow,” replied the ensign as he + departed, “for I must again cross to the cottage, and be back here before + guard-mounting to-morrow.” + </p> + <p> + Within ten minutes the party—two of them having borne the empty + coffin, and the corporal the necessary implements, stood near the + rose-tree in the garden. The body of Mr. Heywood was disinterred—the + bark in which it lay wound round with many folds of a large sheet, and + placed in the coffin, which after being screwed down, was deposited in a + grave dug at least five feet under the surface. Then commenced the burial + service, which was read by the young officer in a slow and impressive + tone, and by the light of the shaded lantern, which, falling obliquely + upon the forms of the men, discovered them standing around the grave—one + foot resting on the edge—the other drawn back, as they awaited the + signal to lower their almost offensive burden into its last resting-place. + At length the prayers for the dead were ended, and the grave was carefully + filled up, leaving as before, no inequality, but too deep to attract the + scent of Loup Garou. Then after having dug up a few small roots of the + sweet briar, and placed them at intervals on the newly-turned earth. + Ronayne crossed with his little party to the Fort, glad to obtain a few + hours of that repose, for which the harassing events of the day had so + much predisposed him. + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0013" id="link2HCH0013"> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XIII. + </h2> + <p> + The fourth of July 1812, was a more than usual gala-day in the little Fort + of Chicago, for in addition to the National Jubilee, there was to be + celebrated one of a private, yet not less interesting nature. On that + evening Ensign Ronayne was to espouse, in the very room in which he had + first been introduced to her the woman he had so long and so ardently + loved, and who, her mother having after a severe struggle become + convalescent, had conformably to her promise, yielded a not reluctant + consent to his proposal that this day of general joy, should be that of + the commencement of their own happiness. + </p> + <p> + At that remote period, and in the absence of duly ordained clergymen, it + was customary for marriages to be performed by the Governors of Districts + and by commanding officers of distant Forts, and these, perfectly legal, + were subsequently as inclination, or scruple of conscience induced, + celebrated in the usual manner. The early marriages of British subjects in + Canada, soon after its conquest from the French, as well as many of those + of the colonies now known as the United States, took place in this manner, + and the custom had been continued until increased population provided the + means of securing that spiritual comfort, which it must, of course, have + been impossible for one dressed in a red coat instead of a black one, to + impart. + </p> + <p> + But neither Maria Heywood or Ronayne stood much on this punctilio. + Provided the ceremony was legal, and according to the customs of the + country, it mattered little who married them—the governor of a + district—the commandant of a garrison, or a Gretna Green blacksmith—had + they felt at all disposed to avail themselves of the services of the + latter. + </p> + <p> + It was a lovely day, and every thing seemed to smile upon the denizens of + that region, from the early dawn until the setting of the sun. Officers + and men were in their brightest uniforms—the women and children in + their holiday dresses. A splendid new Star Spangled Banner—the work + of Maria Heywood's hands—floated in the dazzling rays of the sun, + upon the southern bastion of the Fort. Joy and pride sat on every brow. + They exulted at the recollection of that hardly won freedom from + injustice, which was that day to be celebrated for the thirty-sixth time. + </p> + <p> + At noon the cannon thundered forth their bursts of rejoicing. This was the + signal for the numerous Pottawattamies outside, all of whom had decked + themselves for the occasion, to approach nearer to the Fort. On the glacis + they discharged their guns and rifles, and seemed to have but one spirit + with the allies to whom they appeared to have devoted themselves. + Winnebeg, however, though long expected, had not yet returned, and nothing + yet had been seen of Waunangee, since his departure on the day following + the little incident which occurred in Elmsley's apartments. + </p> + <p> + Contrary to that unnatural etiquette which enjoins that two betrothed + persons, who are expected to be inseparable after marriage, should never + show themselves together in public immediately before, Ronayne had after + parade ascended the rampart, with Maria Heywood leaning upon his arm, + occasionally glancing at the group of gaily-costumed Indians, who were + amusing themselves on the green, but oftener admiring the lovely view, + softened by distance, which was presented in various points, and + particularly towards the farm—the theatre of events which the + otherwise happy girl, could not at that moment avoid bringing to her + recollection. + </p> + <p> + While gazing in that direction, her eye fell upon the form of a young + Indian who was leaning against the corner of the picketed bastion on her + left, in the shallow, dry, and grass-covered ditch that surrounded it. At + first her glance caught an indistinct human form dressed in the Indian + garb, but as her gaze settled on the object, her surprise was great to + recognise Waunangee, who was even then looking at her with the same + softened and eloquent expression, which had given her so much anxiety on a + former occasion. The impression produced upon her was exactly what it had + been then—indescribable—inexplicable to herself. + </p> + <p> + “What is the matter, my love?” inquired Ronayne tenderly, and pressing her + arm to his heart—“what fixes your attention below?” then seeing the + Indian himself. “Ah! Waunangee, my friend!” he exclaimed, “where have you + been all this time? Come round to the gate and shake hands with my wife.” + </p> + <p> + “No, no, no, do not call him up, Ronayne—you cannot think how much + the presence of that Indian troubles me.” + </p> + <p> + “Nay, dearest Maria, you are not yourself. Why continue this strong + dislike against the poor fellow? I thought you had quite forgiven him.” + </p> + <p> + Was it accident—was it modesty, or was it a consciousness that his + presence was not desired by at least one of the parties, that prevented + the young Indian from obeying the summons of the officer. Whatever the + cause, he assumed a serious mein, and playing one of those melancholy airs + which so often, at that time, might be heard proceeding from the rude + flute of their race, walked slowly away. + </p> + <p> + “I fear you have offended him, Maria. Oh! if you knew—” + </p> + <p> + “Ronayne—dearest Harry!” interrupted his betrothed—“I have + never said anything of this before to you, because, after all, it is but + an idle fancy, yet I cannot divest myself of the idea that this Indian, + interesting and prepossessing as he is, is somehow or other connected with + my future fate. Nay,” as the young officer smiled in playful mockery, “you + may ridicule my presentiment, which is, I confess, so much at variance + with good sense, that I almost blush to introduce the subject, but still I + cannot banish the impression.” + </p> + <p> + “Then, I will assist you in doing so, dearest, even though at the risk of + re-opening a newly-closed wound,” remarked her lover, with deep affection + of manner. “In my narrative of those events, hastily thrown together, + which I gave you on that memorable night, when I suffered for a period, + almost the torments of the damned, I did not, it seems to me, name the + young Indian, who, with his father, so greatly aided me on my return to + the farm, and even bore upon his shoulders the sacred charge.” + </p> + <p> + “No, Harry, you did not,” quickly rejoined Maria Heywood; “but I know now + whom you mean. It was Waunangee.” + </p> + <p> + “It was,” said the ensign—“I know your knowledge of that fact will + change your feelings towards him.” + </p> + <p> + “They are changed—even at this moment, and henceforth I shall be to + him as a sister. Ah! how ungrateful must I have appeared to the poor + fellow. I shall conquer this silly weakness: I have misunderstood my own + impressions, and it must have been that I have mistaken the influence + Waunangee has had for that which is to be. Call him up now, Ronayne, and I + will cheerfully give him my hand, and promise to love him as a brother in + return for the devotion he has evinced, not less for you than for my poor + father.” + </p> + <p> + “Time enough, repentant sinner,” returned the young officer, at the same + time casting his glance rapidly over the group of Indians, who were + amusing themselves at various athletic games. “I can see nothing of him. + Your evident displeasure,” he added playfully, “has destroyed his peace, + as indeed you might have known from that plaintive ditty. However, dearest + girl, I shall see him soon, and make him promise to be present this + evening at the nuptials of his friend and sister. Nay, if I had not + engaged Elmsley, I should insist on his being my bridesman.” + </p> + <p> + The only notice taken of this sally was a faint smile from his companion, + who now descended with him from the rampart and proceeded to the + apartments of Mrs. Elmsley, where her mother and herself had once more + been visitors for the last few days. Here they separated to meet again in + the evening—Ronayne directing his attention to his various duties, + and looking out at intervals for his young Indian friend. + </p> + <p> + It was night. No accident had occurred beyond the laceration of two of + Ephraim Giles's fingers, who having that day been presented with a new + suit by the doctor—the fac-simile in fashion of the old—had + been whittling almost in front of one of the guns when discharged, and + lost, with the skin of his finger, both his stick and his knife. The + sultriness of the day had been succeeded by a cool and refreshing air. + Gaiety and content every where prevailed, and many were the voices—male + and female—that exclaimed, as allusion was made to the ceremony all + knew, to be in progress: “God bless them, and make them happy, as they + deserve to be.” A large tub of whisky-punch, the gift of the commanding + officer, had been brewed by Von Vottenberg, for their mid-day revel, and + this, all had been unanimous in pronouncing the best medicine the doctor + had ever administered to them; and now in small social messes, seated + round their rude tables, covered with tin goblets, and pitchers of the + same metal—the mothers with their children at their side or upon + their knees, and the fathers and unmarried men puffing clouds of smoke + from their short pipes—which they filled from two others placed on + an elevated settle—one in each block house—which the happy + Ronayne had given them on the occasion. + </p> + <p> + Even the guard was moderately supplied, and the sentries alone, pacing to + and fro in their limited walk, felt the bitterness of privation, as they + counted the minutes that must elapse before they could join in the + festivities which the loud voice and ringing laugh, occasionally wafted to + their ears, told them were in progress. + </p> + <p> + In the rooms of the commanding officer there was more than the usual + manifestation of the anniversary. All had dined at an early hour, but a + large side-board that stood in one corner of the council room—always + fitted up on these occasions—was covered with vases containing + wines, liqueurs, juleps, and punches of various kinds—the latter the + work of the indefatigable son of Esculapius, and of these the host and his + guests partook freely, in commemoration of the day. At the opposite end of + the room had been raised a sort of tribune for the orator of the day, but + as it was intended the address should be impromptu, no name had been + mentioned, nor could any one know, until the moment when the majority of + voices should select him on whom the office was to devolve. In the fear + entertained by each that he should be the party selected, the glass, to + impart the necessary courage, was not spared. But he who was not in the + room, or of the number of those devoted to the punch-bowl was the person + chosen. As if by one impulsive consent, Ronayne, who was seated in the + inner room, and discoursing of any thing but politics to his betrothed, + found himself loudly called upon—knew it was in vain to object—and + reluctantly rose in obedience to the summons. + </p> + <p> + “Come young gentleman,” said Captain Headley, entering with an air of + gaiety by no means usual to him, “you are, it appears, in all things,” and + he bowed significantly to Maria Heywood, “the chosen of the evening—but + recollect,” he added, as he drew his arm through his own, and proceeded + towards the larger apartment where Ronayne was awaited, “as you acquit + yourself of YOUR duty, so shall I of MINE.” + </p> + <p> + “I shall do my best, sir,” replied the youth, in the same light tone, “but + of the two orations, I know which will be the best suited to my own + taste.” + </p> + <p> + The other ladies, with the exception of Mrs. Heywood, had also risen, and + now stood grouped near Captain Headley, who, with Maria Heywood on his + arm, leaned against the door-way separating the two rooms—while + Ronayne, amid cheers and congratulations, made his way to the tribune, at + the farther end of the apartment. + </p> + <p> + His address was necessarily not long—for independently of the + impatience he could not but entertain at that moment of all subjects but + that nearest his heart, he was by no means ambitious of making a display + of his powers of elocution. Yet, notwithstanding this, he treated his + theme in so masterly a manner, and in such perfectly good taste, omitting + all expressions of that rancor towards Great Britain, which forms so + leading a feature in American orations on this occasion, and yet + reflecting honor on the land of his birth—alluding, moreover, to the + high position even then occupied by the nation, and the future greatness + which he predicted, from its laws, its institutions, and peculiar form of + government, awaited it—that Maria Heywood could not fail to + experience a secret pride in the warm, and evidently sincere acclamation + of the little party present, attesting as they did, their estimate of the + worth of him, who in another hour, would be her own for life. + </p> + <p> + As Ronayne descending from the tribune, passed to the other side of the + room, he looked out of the door which had been left open, not more on + account of the heat, than to afford the men and their families an + opportunity of hearing the discourse thus delivered—almost the first + person who came under his glance was Waunangee, for whose admission he had + given orders to the serjeant of the guard, and who now, in compliance with + his pressing entreaty, had attended. He was becomingly dressed in deer + skin, richly embroidered, pliant and of a clear brown that harmonized well + with the snowy whiteness of his linen shirt, which was fastened with + silver brooches, while on the equally decorated leggins, he wore around + the ankle, strings of minute brass bells. On his head floated the rich + plumage of various rare birds, but no paint was visible beyond the + slightest tint of vermilion on the very top of each cheek-bone, rendering + even more striking the expression of his soft dark eyes. + </p> + <p> + Beckoning to him, Ronayne drew the young Indian within the door, which had + he not accidentally distinguished him in the crowd, he was quite too + modest to enter alone. Then drawing his arm through his own, he led him, + coloring and embarrassed at the novelty of the scene, to the place where + Captain Headley was still lingering with his charge. The moment they were + near enough, the latter held out her hand to Waunangee, and with all the + warmth of her generous nature, pressed that which he extended. The young + Indian colored more deeply even than before—his hand trembled in + hers—and the look of thankfulness which he bent upon her, in return + for this unmistakable confidence, had all the touching melancholy of + expression which she had remarked in them at their first meeting. Again a + mingled sentiment of confusion and distrust suffused the cheek, and for a + moment oppressed the spirit of Maria Heywood in despite of herself, and + she almost wished Waunangee had not returned. The thought however, was + momentary. She felt the folly, the injustice of her feelings, and anxious + to atone for them, she nervously—almost convulsively grasped the + hand of the Indian, carried it to her lips, and said in her full, sweet + and earnest tones, that he must ever be her brother as she would ever be + his sister. + </p> + <p> + “And now,” said Captain Headley to the young officer, “what reward do you + expect for your maiden oration? What shall it be, Miss Heywood?” + </p> + <p> + “I will spare her the trouble of an answer,” interposed Ronayne, as he + took the arm which had just disengaged itself from that of the commandant, + and placed it within his own, “until you have set your seal to the + priceless gift,” and his eyes looked all the intensity of his feeling; “I + part not with it again.” + </p> + <p> + “Every thing is ready is the next room,” answered Captain Headley—“go + in. When I have announced that the ceremony is about to take place, I + shall hasten to give you the dear girl for life,” and imprinting a kiss + upon her brow, he passed on to those who were paying their homage to the + punch-bowl, and discussing the merits of the oration just delivered. + </p> + <p> + It was with a flushed cheek, and a beating heart that Maria Heywood was + led by Ronayne, radiant with hope and joy, to the little table covered + with plain, white linen, and illuminated by half a dozen tall candles, + behind which the commanding officer had placed himself on an elevated + estrade. + </p> + <p> + All of the guests were grouped around, a little in the rear, while + Lieutenant Elmsley stood on the right hand of his friend, and his wife on + the left of the betrothed. Next to her, in an arm chair, which, provided + with rollers, was easily moved, Mrs. Heywood—and with her beautiful + arms reposing on the high back of this, stood Mrs. Headley in graceful + attitude, watching the ceremony with almost maternal interest. Immediately + behind Ronayne, from whom he evidently did not like to be separated, stood + Waunangee, with an air of deep dejection, yet casting glances rapidly from + one to the other of his two friends. + </p> + <p> + When the young officer, after having formally received the bride from her + mother, whose strength barely permitted her to rise and go through that + part of the ceremony, proceeded to place the ring upon the finger of his + wife, it fell, either from nervousness or accident upon the matted floor. + Quick as thought, Waunangee, who had now his whole attention bent upon the + passing scene, stooped, picked it up, and attempted to place it on the + finger, still extended, for which it was designed. + </p> + <p> + “Gently, Waunangee, my good fellow,” said the officer, piqued not less at + his own awkwardness at such a moment, than at the outre act of the youth, + from whom he rather unceremoniously took it—“the husband only does + this.” + </p> + <p> + “Wah!” involuntarily exclaimed the other, his cheek becoming brighter, and + his eyes kindling into sudden fierceness, while his hand intuitively + clutched the handle of his knife—yet the moment afterwards + relinquished it. The motion had been so quick, indeed, that only Mr. + Headley and the bride herself had noticed it. + </p> + <p> + Still fascinated as it were by the novel scene, Waunangee moved not away, + but the expression of his eyes had wholly changed. There was no longer to + be remarked there the great melancholy of the past—but the wild + restless, flashing glance that told of strong excitement within. + </p> + <p> + When immediately afterwards they knelt, and had their hands joined by + Captain Headley, Waunangee bent eagerly forward, as if apprehensive of + losing the slightest part of the ceremonial, but when at the conclusion, + Ronayne saluted his wife in the usual manner, his cheek became suddenly + pale as its native hue would permit, and with folded arms and proud + attitude he withdrew slowly from the place he had hitherto occupied, to + mingle more with the crowd behind. + </p> + <p> + When Ronayne, who, remembering the little incident of the ring, and the + possible pique Waunangee might feel, turned to look for him, that he might + again present his bride in her new character, he was no where to be seen, + nor was he ever again beheld within the precincts of that stockade. + </p> + <p> + And under those singular and somewhat ominous circumstances, were the + long-delayed nuptials of Harry Ronayne and Maria Heywood—the great + favorites of the garrison—celebrated to the joy of all within the + Fort of Chicago. + </p> + <p> + END + </p> + <div style="height: 6em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + + + + + + + +<pre> + + + + + +End of the Project Gutenberg EBook of Hardscrabble, by John Richardson + +*** END OF THIS PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK HARDSCRABBLE *** + +***** This file should be named 5169-h.htm or 5169-h.zip ***** +This and all associated files of various formats will be found in: + http://www.gutenberg.org/5/1/6/5169/ + + +Text file produced by Gardner Buchanan with help from Charles Franks +and Distributed Proofers + +HTML file produced by David Widger + + +Updated editions will replace the previous one--the old editions +will be renamed. + +Creating the works from public domain print editions means that no +one owns a United States copyright in these works, so the Foundation +(and you!) can copy and distribute it in the United States without +permission and without paying copyright royalties. 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