 Chapter 18 of The Last of the Mohicans. A narrative of 1757 by James Fenimore Cooper. This is a LibriVox recording. All LibriVox recordings are in the public domain. For more information or to volunteer, please visit LibriVox.org. Chapter 18 Quote. Why anything? An honourable murderer, if you will. For not I did in hate, but all in honour. Unquote. From a fellow. The bloody and inhuman scene, rather incidentally mentioned than described in the preceding chapter, is conspicuous in the pages of colonial history by the merited title of The Massacre of William Henry. It so far deepened the stain which a previous and very similar event had left upon the reputation of the French commander that it was not entirely erased by his early and glorious death. It is now becoming obscured by time, and thousands who know that Mount Calum died like a hero on the plains of Abraham have yet to learn how much he was deficient in that moral courage without which no man can be truly great. Pages might yet be written to prove from his illustrious example the defects of human excellence to show how easy it is for generous sentiments, high courtesy, and chivalrous courage to lose their influence beneath the chilling blade of selfishness, and to exhibit to the world a man who was great in all the minor attributes of character, but who was found wanting when it became necessary to prove how much principle is superior to policy. But the task would exceed our prerogatives, and, as history-like love is so apt to surround her heroes with an atmosphere of imaginary brightness, it is probable that Louis de Saint-Veron will be viewed by posterity only as the gallant defender of his country, while his cruel apathy on the shores of the asuego and of the hurricane will be forgotten. Deeply regretting this weakness on the part of a sister muse, we shall at once retire from her sacred precincts within the proper limits of our own humble vocation. The third day from the capture of the fort was drawing to a close, but the busyness of the narrative must still detain the reader on the shores of the Holy Lake. When last seen the environs of the works were filled with violence and uproar, they were now possessed by stillness and death. The bloodstained conquerors had departed, and their camp which had so lately rung with the merry rejoicings of a victorious army lay a silent and deserted city of huts. The fortress was a smoldering ruin, charred rafters, fragments of exploded artillery, and rent mason work, covering its earthen mounds in confused disorder. A frightful change had also occurred in the season. The sun had hit its warmth behind an impenetrable mass of vapor, and hundreds of human forms, which had blackened beneath the fierce heats of August, were stiffening in their deformity before the blast of a premature November. The curling and spotless mist, which had been sailing above the hills toward the north, were now returning to an interminable dusky sheet, which was urged along by the fury of a tempest. The crowded mirror of the hurricane was gone, and in its place the green and angry waters lashed the shores, as if indignantly casting back its impurities to the polluted strand. Still, the clear fountain retained a portion of its charmed influence, but it reflected only the somber gloom that fell from the impending heavens. That humid and congenial atmosphere which commonly adorned a view, veiling its harshness, and softening its asperities had disappeared. The northern air poured across the waste of water so harsh and unmingled that nothing was left to be conjectured by the eye. The fiercer element had cropped the vending of the plain, which looked as though it were scathed by a consuming lightning, but here and there a dark green tougher rose in the midst of the desolation, the earliest fruits of a soil that had been fattened with human blood. The whole landscape, which seen by a favoring light and in a genial temperature, had been so lovely, appeared now like some pictured allegory of life, in which objects were arrayed in their harshest but truest colors, and without the relief of any shadowing. The solitary and arid blades of grass arose from the passing gust, fearfully perceptible. The bold and rocky mountains were too distinct in their bareness, and the eye even sought relief in vain by attempting to pierce the illimitable void of heaven, which was shut to its gaze by the dusky sheet of ragged and driving vapor. The wind blew unequally, sometimes sweeping heavily along the ground, seeming to whisper its moanings in the cold ears of the dead. Then rising in a shrill and mournful whistling, it entered the forest with a rush that filled the air with leaves and branches that scattered in its path. Amid the unnatural shower a few hungry ravens struggled with the gale, but no sooner was the green ocean of woods which stretched beneath them past than they gladly stopped at random to their hideous bank. In short, it was a scene of wildness and desolation, and it appeared as if all who had profanely entered it had been stricken, at a blow by the relentless arm of death. But the prohibition had ceased, and for the first time since the perpetrators of those filed deeds which had assisted to disfigure the scene were gone, living human beings had now presumed to approach the place. About an hour before the setting of the sun, on the day already mentioned, the forms of five men might have been seen issuing from the narrow vistas of trees, where the path through the Hudson entered the forest, and advancing in the direction of the ruined works. At first their progress was slow and guarded, as though they entered with reluctance amid the horrors of the post, or dreaded the renewal of its frightful incidents. A light figure preceded the rest of the party with the caution and activity of a native, ascending every hillock to reconnoiter, and indicating by gestures to his companions the route he deemed it most prudent to pursue, nor were those in the rear wanting in every caution and foresight known to forest warfare. One among them, he also was an Indian, moved a little on one flank, and watched the margin of the woods, with eyes long accustomed to read the smallest sign of danger. The remaining three were white, though clad investments adapted both in quality and color to their present hazardous pursuit, that of hanging on the skirts of a retiring army in the wilderness. The effects produced by the pawling sights that constantly arose in their path to the lakeshore were as different as the characters of the respective individuals who composed the party. The youth in front, through serious but fertile glances at the mangled victims, as he stepped lightly across the plain, afraid to exhibit his feelings, and yet too inexperienced to quell entirely their sudden and powerful influence. His red associate, however, was superior to such a weakness. He passed the groups of dead with a steadiness of purpose, and an eye so calm that nothing but long and invertebrate practice could enable him to maintain. The sensations produced in the minds of even the white men were different, though uniformly sorrowful. One, whose gray locks and frode liniments, blending with a martial air and tread, betrayed in spite of the disguise of a woodman's dress, a man long experienced in scenes of war, was not ashamed to groan aloud whenever a spectacle of more than usual horror came under his view. The young man at his elbow shuddered, but seemed to suppress his feelings and tenderness to his companion. Of them all, the straggler who brought up the rear appeared alone to betray his real thoughts, without fear of observation or dread of consequences. He gazed on the most appalling sight with eyes and muscles that knew not how to waver, but with execrations so bitter and deep as to denote how much he denounced the crime of his enemies. The reader will perceive at once in these respective characters the Mohicans and their white friend the Scout, together with Monroe and Hayward. It was in truth the father in quest of his children, attended by the youth who felt so deep a stake in their happiness, and those brave and trusty foresters who had already proved their skill and fidelity through the trying scenes related. When Uncus, who moved in front, had reached the centre of the plain, he raised a cry that drew his companions in a body to the spot. The young warrior had halted over a group of females who lay in a cluster, a confused mass of dead. Notwithstanding the revolting horror of the exhibition, Monroe and Hayward flew toward the festering heap, endeavouring with a love that no uneasiness could extinguish to discover whether any vestiges of those they sought were to be seen among the tattered and many coloured garments. The father and the lover found instant relief in the search, though each was condemned again to experience the misery of an uncertainty that was hardly less insupportable than the most revolting truth. They were standing silent and thoughtful around the melancholy pile when the Scout approached. Eyeing the sad spectacle with an angry countenance, the sturdy woodsman, for the first time since his entering the plain, spoke intelligibly and aloud. I have been on many a shocking field and have followed a trail of blood for weary miles, he said, but never have I found the head of the devil so plain as it is here to be seen. Revenge is an Indian feeling and all who know me know that there is no cross in my veins, but this much will I say here, in the face of heaven and with the power of the Lord so manifest in this howling wilderness, that should these Frenchers ever trust themselves again with within the rage of a ragged bullet, there is one rifle which shall play its part so long as flint will fire or powder burn. I leave the tomahawk and knife to such as have a natural gift to use them. What say you, chinch-gotch-cook, he added in Delaware? Shall the Hurons boast of this to their women when the deep snows come? A gleam of resentment flashed across the dark liniments of the Mohican chief. He loosened his knife in his sheath. And then, turning calmly from the sight, his countenance settled into a repose as deep as if he knew the instigation of passion. Mud-calm, mud-calm! continued the deeply resentful and less self-restrained scout. They say a time must come when all the deeds done in the flesh will be seen at a single look, and that by eyes cleared for mortal infirmities. Woe betide the wretch who is born to behold this plain, with a judgment hanging about his soul. As I am a man of white blood, yonder lies a red skin without the hair of his head, where nature rooted it. Look to him, Delaware, it may be one of your missing people. And he should have burial like a stout warrior. I see it in your eye, Sagamore. A Huron pays for this for the fall winds have blown away the scent of the blood. Chinchgochuk approached the mutilated form, and turning it over he found the distinguishing marks of one of those six allied tribes or nations as they were called, who, while they fought in the English ranks, were so deadly hostile to his own people. Spurning the loathsome object with his foot, he turned from it with the same difference he would have quitted a brute carcass. The scout comprehended the action, and very deliberately pursued his own way, continuing, however, his denunciations against the French commander in the same resentful strain. Nothing but vast wisdom and unlimited power should dare to sweep off men in maltitudes, he added. For it is only the one that can know the necessity of the judgment, and what is there short of the other that can replace the creatures of the Lord. I hold it as sin to kill the second buck before the first is eaten, unless a march in front or an ambushment be contemplated. It is a different matter for a few warriors in open and rugged fight, for it is their gift to die with the rifle or the tomahawk in hand, according as their natures may happen to be red or white. Ancus, come this way, lad, and let the ravens settle upon the mingo. I know from often seeing it, that they are craving for the flesh of an anida, and it is well to let the bird follow the gift of its natural appetite. Huh! exclaimed the young Mohegan, rising on the extremities of his feet and gazing intently in his front, frightening the ravens to some other prey by the sound of the action. What is it, boy? whispered the scout, lowering his tall form into a crouching attitude, like a panther about to take his leap. God send it be a tarty Frencher sulking for plunder? I do believe Kildir would have uncommon range today. Ancus, without making any reply, bounded away from the spot, and in the next instant he was seen tearing from a bush and waving in triumph a fragment from the green riding-veil of Quora. The movement, the exhibition, and the cry which again burst from the lips of the young Mohegan instantly drew the whole party about him. My child! said Monroe, speaking quickly and wildly. Give me my child! Ancus will try! was the short and touching answer. The simple but meaning assurance was lost on the father, who seized the piece of gauze and crushed it in his hand while his eyes roamed fearfully among the bushes, as if he equally dreaded and hoped for the secrets they might reveal. Here are no dead, said Hayward. The storm seems not to have passed this way. That's manifest and clearer than the heavens above our heads, returned the undisturbed scout. But either she or they that have robbed her have passed the bush, for I remember the rag she wore to hide a face that all did love to look upon. Ancus, you are right. The wood. None who could fly would remain to be murdered. Let us search for the mark she left, for to Indian eyes I sometimes think a hummingbird leaves his trail in the air. The young Mohegan darted away at the suggestion, and the scout had hardly done speaking before the former raised a cry of success from the margin of the forest. Unreaching the spot, the anxious party perceived another portion of the veil fluttering on the lower branch of a beach. Softly, softly, said the scout, extending his long rifle in front of the eager Hayward. We know now our work, but the beauty of the trail must not be deformed. A step too soon may give us hours of trouble. We have them, though. That much is beyond denial. Bless ye, bless ye, worthy man, exclaimed Monroe. Whither then have they fled? And where are my babes? The path they have taken depends on many chances. If they have gone alone, they are quite as likely to move in a circle as straight, and they may be within a dozen miles of us. But if the Iran's or any of the French Indians have laid hands on them, it is probably they are now near the borders of the Canada's. But what matters that? Continued the deliberate scout, observing the powerful anxiety and disappointment the listeners exhibited. Here are the Mohicans, an eye on one end of the trail. And rely on it. We find the other, though they should be a hundred leagues asunder. Gently, gently, Uncus, you are as impatient as a man in the settlements. You forget that light feet leave but faint marks. Oh! exclaimed Chinch-Rochcock, who had been occupied in examining an opening that had been evidently made through the low underbrush which skirted the forest, and who now stood erect, as he pointed downward in the attitude, with an air of a man who beheld a disgusting serpent. Here is the palpable impression of the footstep of a man, cried Hayward, bending over the indicated spot. He is draught in the margin of this pool, and the mark cannot be mistaken. They are captives. Better so than left to starve in the wilderness, returned the scout, and they will leave a wider trail. I would wager fifty beaver skins against as many flints that the Mohicans and I enter their wigwams within the month. Stoop to it, Uncus, and try what you can make of the moccasin. For moccasin it plainly is, and no shoe. The young Mohican bent over the track, and removing the scattered leaves from around the place. He examined it with much of that sort of scrutiny that a money-dealer in these days of pecuniary doubts would bestow on a suspected due bill. At length he arose from his knees, satisfied with the result of the examination. Well, boy, demanded the attentive scout, what does it say? Can you make anything of the tell-tale? They were not at subtele. Ha, that rampaging devil again! There will never be an end of his loping till Kildir has said a friendly word to him. Hayward reluctantly admitted the truth of this intelligence, and now expressed rather his hopes than his doubts by saying, One moccasin is so much like another. It is probable there is some mistake. One moccasin like another? You may as well say that one foot is like another, though we all know that some are long and others short, some broad and others narrow, some with high and some with low insteps, some in-toad and some out. One moccasin is no more like another than one book is like another. Though they who can read in one are seldom able to tell the marks of the other. Which is all ordered for the best, giving to every man his natural advantages. Let me go down to it, Uncus. Neither book nor moccasin is the worse for having two opinions instead of one. The scout stooped to the task and instantly added, You're right, boy. Here's the patch we saw so often in the other chase. And the fellow will drink when he can get an opportunity. After drinking, Indian always learns to walk with a wider toe than the natural savage, it being the gift of a drunkard to straddle, whether of white or red skin. Tis just the lengthened bread, too. Look at it, Sagamore. You measured the prints more than once when we hunted the varmints from the glens to the healthsprings. Chinchgaach cook complied, and after finishing his short examination he arose and with a quiet demeanor he merely pronounced the word. Mokwa. Aye, tis a settled thing. Here, then, have passed the dark air and Mokwa. And not Alice, demanded Hayward. Of her we have not yet seen the signs return the scout, looking closely around the trees, the bushes, and the ground. What have we there? Uncus, bring hither the thing you see dangling from yonder thorn bush. When the Indian had complied, the scout received the prize and holding it on high he laughed in his silent but heartfelt manner. Tis the tooting weapon of the singer. Now we shall have a trail a priest might travel, he said. Uncus, look for the marks of a shoe that is long enough to uphold six feet two of tottering human flesh. I begin to have some hopes of the fellow since he has given up squalling to follow some better trade. At least he has been faithful to his trust, said Hayward. And Cora and Alice are not without a friend. Yes, said Hawkeye, dropping his rifle and leaning on it with an air of visible contempt. He will do their singing. Can he slay a buck for their dinner, journey by the moss on the beaches, or cut the throat of a Huron? If not, the first cat-bird he meets is the cleverer of the two. Footnote, the powers of the American mockingbird are generally known, but the true mockingbird is not found so far north as the State of New York, where it has, however, two substitutes of inferior excellence. The cat-bird so often named by the scout and the bird vulgarly called ground-thresher. Either of these last two birds is superior to the nightingale or the lark, though in general the American birds are less musical than those of Europe. End footnote. Well, boy, any signs of such a foundation? Here is something like the footstep of one who has worn a shoe. Can that be our friend? Touch the leaves lightly or you'll disconcert the formation. That, that is the print of a foot. Put his the dark hairs, and small it his, too. For one of such a noble height and grand appearance, the singer would cover it with his heel. Where, let me look on the footsteps of my child, said Monroe, shoving the bushes aside and bending fondly over the nearly obliterated impression. Though the tread which had left the mark had been light and rapid, it was still plainly visible. The aged soldier examined it with eyes that grew dim as he gazed, nor did he rise from his stooping posture till Hayward saw that he had watered the trace of his daughter's passage with a scalding tear. Willing to divert a distress which threatened each moment to break through the restraint of appearances, by giving the veteran something to do, the young man said to the scout, As we now possess these infallible signs, let us commence our march. A moment at such a time will appear an age to the captors. It is not the swift, the sleeping deer that gives the longest chase, returned Hawkeye, without moving his eye from the different marks that had come under his view. We know that the rampaging Huron has passed and the dark hair and the singer, but where is she of the yellow locks and blue eyes? Though little and far from being as bold as her sister, she is fair to the view and pleasant in discourse. Has she no friend that none care for her? God forbid she should ever want hundreds. Are we not now in their pursuit? For one, I will never cease the search till she be found. In that case, we may have to journey by different paths. For here she has not passed, light and little, as her footsteps would be. Hayward drew back, all his ardor to proceed seeming to vanish on the instant. Without attending to this sudden change in the other's humor, the scout after musing a moment continued, there is no woman in this wilderness could leave such a print as that but the dark hair or her sister. We know that the first has been here, but where are the signs of the other? Let us push deeper on the trail and if nothing offers, we must go back to the plain and strike another scent. Move on, Uncus, and keep your eyes on the dried leaves. I will watch the bushes while your father shall run with a low nose to the ground. Move on, friends, the sun is getting behind the hills. Is there nothing that I can do? demanded the anxious Hayward. You, repeated the scout, who with his red friends was already advancing in the order he had prescribed. Yes, you can keep in our rear and be careful not to cross the trail. Before they had preceded many rods the Indians stopped and appeared to gaze at some signs on the earth with more than their usual keenness. Both father and son spoke quick and loud, now looking at the object of their mutual admiration and now regarding each other with the most unequivocal pleasure. They have found the little foot, exclaimed the scout, moving forward without attending further to his own portion of the duty. What have we here? An ambush has been planted in the spot. No, by the truest rifle of the frontiers. Here have been them one-sided horses again. Now the whole secret is out and all is plain as the North Star at midnight. Yes, here they have mounted. There the beast have been bound to a sapling waiting and Yonder runs the broad path away to the North in full sweep for the Canada's. But still there are no signs of Alice on the younger Miss Noreau, said Duncan, unless the shining bobble of Uncus has just lifted from the ground should prove one. Pass it this way, lad, that we may look at it. Hayward instantly knew it for a trinket that Alice was fond of wearing and which he recollected with a tenacious memory of a lover to have seen on the fatal morning of the massacre, dangling from the fair neck of his mistress. He seized the highly prized jewel and as he proclaimed the fact it vanished from the eyes of the wandering scout, who in vain looked for it on the ground, long after it was warmly pressed against the beating heart of Duncan. Ah! said the disappointed Hawkeye, ceasing to rake the leaves with the breach of his rifle. Tis a sign of age when the sight begins to weaken. Such a glittering giggle and not to be seen. Well, well, I can squint along a clouded barrel yet, and that is enough to settle all disputes between me and the mingos. I should like to find the thing, too, if it were only to carry it to the right owner, and that would be bringing the two ends of what I call a long trail together. For by this time the broad St. Lawrence, or perhaps the Great Lakes themselves, are between us. So much the more reason why we should not delay our march, returned Hayward. Let us proceed. Young blood and hot blood, they say, are much the same thing. We are not about to start on a squirrel hunt or to drive a deer into the hurricane, but to outlive for days and nights and to stretch across a wilderness, where the feet of men seldom go, and where no bookish knowledge would carry you through harmless. An Indian never starts on such an exhibition without smoking over his council fire, and, though a man of white blood, I honor their customs in this particular, seeing that they are deliberate and wise. We will therefore go back and light our fire tonight in the ruins of the Old Fort, and in the morning we shall be fresh and ready to undertake our work like men, and not like babbling women or eager boys. Hayward saw by the manner of the scout that altercation would be useless. Monroe had again sunk into that sort of apathy which had beset him since his late overwhelming misfortunes, and from which he was apparently to be riled only by some new and powerful excitement. Making a merit of necessity the young man took the veteran by the arm and followed in the footsteps of Indians in the scout, who had already begun to retrace the path which conducted them to the plain. End of Chapter 18. This reading by Gary W. Sherwin of Yukon, Pennsylvania, in the autumn of 2007. Chapter 19 of The Last of the Mohicans. A narrative of 1757 by James Fenimore Cooper. This is a LibriVox recording. All LibriVox recordings are in the public domain. For more information or to volunteer, please visit LibriVox.org. Chapter 19. Quote, Silar, why I am sure if he forfeit that will not take his flesh. What's that good for? Shy. To bait fish with all. If it will feed nothing else, it will feed my revenge. From the Merchant of Venice. The shades of evening had come to increase the dreariness of the place when the party entered the ruins of William Henry. The scout and his companions immediately made their preparations to pass the night there. But with an earnestness and sobriety of demeanor that betrayed how much the unusual horrors they had just witnessed worked on even their practised feelings. A few fragments of rafters were reared against a blackened wall and when Uncus had covered them slightly with brush the temporary accommodations were deemed sufficient. The young Indian pointed toward this rude hut when his labour was ended, and Hayward, who understood the meaning of the silent gestures, gently urged Monroe to enter, leaving the bereaved old man alone with his sorrows, Duncan immediately returned into the open air. Too much excited himself to seek the repose he had recommended to his veteran friend. While Hawkeye and the Indians lighted their fire and took their evenings repast, a frugal meal of dried bears meet, the young man paid a visit to that curtain of the dilapidated fort which looked out on the sheet of the hurricane. The wind had fallen and the waves were already rolling on the sandy beach beneath him in a more regular and tempered succession. The clouds, as if tired of their furious chase, were breaking asunder, the heavier volumes gathering in black masses about the horizon, while the lighter scud still hurried above the water, or eddied among the slopes of the mountains like broken flights of birds hovering around their roost. Here and there, at red and fiery stars struggled through the drifting vapor, furnishing a lured gleam of brightness to the dull aspect of the heavens. Within the bosom of the encircling hills an impenetrable darkness had already settled, and the plain laid like a vast and deserted charnel house without omen or whisper to disturb the slumbers of its numerous and hapless tenets. On this scene, so chillingly in accordance with the past, Duncan stood for many minutes a rapt observer. His eyes wandered from the bosom of the mound where the foresters were seated around their glimmering fire, to the fainter light which still lingered in the skies, and then rested long and anxiously on the embodied gloom which lay like a dreary void on that side of him where the dead were reposed. He soon fancied that inexplicable sounds arose from the place, though so indistinct and stolen as to render not only their nature, but even their existence uncertain. Ashamed of his apprehensions, the young man turned toward the water, and strove to divert his attention to the mimic stars that dimly glimmered on its moving surface. Still, his two conscious ears performed their ungrateful duty as if to warn him of some working danger. At length a swift trampling seemed quite audibly to rush athwart the darkness. Unable any longer to quiet his uneasiness, Duncan spoke in a low voice to the scout, requesting him to ascend the mound to the place where he stood. Hawkeye threw his rifle across his arm and complied, but with an air so unmoved and calm as to prove how much he counted on the security of their position. Listen, said Duncan, when the other placed himself deliberately at his elbow. There are suppressed noises on the plane, which may show Mount Colm has not yet entirely deserted his conquest. Then ears are better than eyes, said the undisturbed scout, who, having just deposited a portion of bear between his grinders, spoke thick and slow, like one whose mouth was doubly occupied. I myself saw him caged in tie with all his host, for your Frenchers, when they have done a clever thing, like to get back and have a dance or a merry-making with the women over their success. I know not. An Indian seldom sleeps in war and plunder may keep a Huron here after his tribe has departed. It would be well to extinguish the fire and have a watch. Listen. You hear the noise, I mean. An Indian more rarely lurks about the graves. Though ready to slay and not overregardful of the means, he is commonly content with the scalp, unless when blood is hot and temper up. But after spirit is once fairly gone he forgets his enmity and is willing to let the dead find their natural rest. Speaking of Spirit's major, are you of opinion that the heaven of a red skin and us whites will be of one and the same? No doubt, no doubt. I thought I heard it again. Or was it the rustling of the leaves in the top of the beach? For my own part continued Hawkeye, turning his face for a moment in the direction indicated by Hayward. But with a vacant and careless manner I believe that paradise is ordained for happiness and that men will be indulged in it according to their dispositions and gifts. I therefore judge that a red skin is not far from the truth when he believes he has defined them glorious hunting grounds, of which his traditions tell. Nor for that matter do I think it would be any disparagement to a man without a cross to pass his time. You hear it again? Interrupt the Duncan. I, I, when food is scarce and when food is plenty a wolf grows bold, said the unmoved scout. There would be picking too among the skins of the devils if there was light and time for the sport. But concerning the life that is to come, Major, I have heard preachers say in the settlements that heaven was a place of rest. Now men's minds differ as to their ideas of enjoyment. For myself, and I say it with reverence to the ordering of providence, it would be no great indulgence to be kept shut up in those mansions of which they preach, having a natural longing for motion and the chase. Duncan, who was now made to understand the nature of the noise he had heard, answered with more attention to the subject, which the humor of the scout had chosen for discussion by saying, It is difficult to account for the feelings that may attend the last great change. It would be a change, indeed, for a man who has passed his days in the open air returned the single-minded scout, and who has so often broken his fast on the headwaters of the Hudson to sleep within sound of the roaring Mohawk. But it is a comfort to know we serve a merciful master, though we do it each after his fashion, and with great tracks of wilderness between us. What goes there? Is it not the rushing of the walls you have mentioned? Hawkeye slowly shook his head, and beckoned for Duncan to follow him to a spot to which the glare of the fire did not extend. When he had taken this precaution, the scout placed himself in an attitude of intense attention, and listened long and keenly for a repetition of the low sound that had so unexpectedly startled him. His vigilance, however, seemed exercised in vain. For after a fruitless pause he whispered to Duncan, We must give a call to Uncus. The boy has Indian senses, and he may hear what is hid from us, for, being a white-skin, I will not deny my nature. The young Mohican, who was conversing in a low voice with his father, started as he heard the moaning of an owl, and springing to his feet he looked toward the black mounds as he was seeking the place once the sounds proceeded. The scout repeated the call, and within a few moments Duncan saw the figure of Uncus stealing cautiously along the rampart to the spot where they stood. Hawkeye explained his wishes in very few words which were spoken in the Delaware tongue. As soon as Uncus was in possession of the reason why he was summoned, he threw himself flat on the turf, where to the eyes of Duncan he appeared to lie quiet and motionless, surprised at the immovable attitude of the young warrior, and curious to observe the manner in which he employed his faculties to obtain the desired information, Hayward advanced a few steps, and bent over the dark object on which his eye riveted. Then it was he discovered that the form of Uncus vanished, and that he beheld only the dark outline of an inequality in the embankment. What has become of the Mohican? he demanded of the scout. Stepping back in amazement, it was here that I saw him fall and could have sworn that here he yet remained. Speak lower, for we know not what ears are open, and the moquus are a quick-witted breed. As for Uncus, he is out on the plain, and the moquus, if any such are about us, will find him their equal. You think that Montcom has not called off all his Indians? Let us give the alarm to our companions that we may stand to our arms. Here are five of us who are not unused to meeting an enemy. Not a word to either as you value your life. Look at the Zagamore, how like a Grand Indian chief he sits by the fire. If there are any Skalkers out in the darkness, they will never discover by his countenance that we suspect danger at hand. But they may discover him, and it will prove his death. His person can be too plainly seen by the light of that fire, and he will become the first and most certain victim. It is undeniable that now you speak the truth, return the scout, betraying more anxiety than was usual, yet what can be done? A single suspicious look might bring on an attack before we are ready to receive it. He knows by the call I gave Uncus that we have struck a scent. I will tell him that we are on the trail of the mingos. His Indian nature will tell him how to act. The scout applied his fingers to his mouth and raised a low hissing sound that caused Duncan at first to start aside, believing that he had heard a serpent. The head of Chinchgauchcook was resting on a hand as he sat musing by himself, but the moment he had heard the warning of the animal whose name he bore, he arose to an upright position, and his dark eyes glanced swiftly and keenly on every side of him. With his sudden and perhaps involuntary movement, every appearance of surprise or alarm ended. His rifle lay untouched and apparently unnoticed within reach of his hand. The tomohawk that he had loosened in his belt for the sake of ease was even suffered to fall from its usual situation to the ground, and his form seemed to sink like that of a man whose nerves and sinews were suffered to relax for the purpose of rest. Cunningly resuming his former position, though with a change of hands as if the movement had been made merely to relieve the glim, the native awaited the result with a calmness and fortitude that none but an Indian warrior would have known how to exercise. But Hayward saw that while to a less instructed eye the Mohican chief appeared to slumber, his nostrils were expanded, his head was turned a little to one side as to assist the organs of hearing, and that his quick and rapid glances ran incessantly over every object within the power of his vision. See the noble fellow, whispered Hawkeye, pressing the arm of Hayward. He knows that a look of motion might disconcert our schemes, and put us at the mercy of them imps. He was interrupted by the flash and report of a rifle. The air was filled with sparks of fire around that spot where the eyes of Hayward were still fastened with admiration and wonder. A second look told him that Chinggocchuk had disappeared in the confusion. In the meantime the scout had thrown forward his rifle, like one prepared for service, and awaited impatiently the moment when an enemy might rise to view. But with the solitary and fruitless attempt made on the life of Chinggocchuk, the attack appeared to have terminated. Once or twice the listeners thought they could distinguish the distant rustling of bushes, as bodies of some unknown description rushed through them. Nor was it long before Hawkeye pointed out the scampering of the wolves, as they fled precipitately before the passage of some intruder on their proper domains. After an impatient and breathless pause, a plunge was heard in the water, and it was followed by the report of another rifle. There it goes, Uncus, said the scout. The boy bears a smart peace. I know it's crack, as well as the father knows the language of his child, for I carry the gun myself until I better offered. What can this mean? demanded Duncan. We are watched, and as it would seem, marked for destruction. Yonder scattered Bran can witness that no good was intended. And this Indian will testify that no harm has been done, returned the scout, dropping his rifle across his arm again, and following Chinchgaach Cook, who just then reappeared within the circle of light, into the bosom of the work. How is it, Sagamore? Are the mingos upon us in earnest, or is it only one of those reptiles who hang upon the skirts of a war party to scalp the dead, go in, and make their boast among the squalls of the valiant deeds done on the pale faces? Chinchgaach Cook very quietly resumed his seat. Nor did he make any reply until after he had examined the firebrand, which had been struck by the bullet that had nearly proved fatal to himself, after which he was content to reply, after which he was content to reply, holding a single finger up to view, with the English monosyllable, one. I thought as much returned Hawkeye seating himself, and as he had got the cover of the lake afore Uncus pulled upon him, I thought as much returned Hawkeye seating himself, and as he had got the cover of the lake afore Uncus pulled upon him, it is more than probable the nave will sing his lies about some great ambushment in which he was outlying on the trail of two Mohicans and a white hunter, for the officers can be considered as little better than idlers in such a scrimmage. Well, let him. Let him. There are always some honest men in every nation, though heaven knows, too, that they are scarce among the moquas, to look down an upstart when he brags again the face of reason. The violet sent his lead within whistle of your ears, Sagamore. Chinchgaach Cook turned a calm and incurious eye toward the place where the ball had struck, and then resumed his former attitude with a composure that could not be disturbed by so trifling an incident. Just then Uncus glided into the circle and seated himself at the fire with the same appearance of indifference as was maintained by his father. Of these several moments Hayward was a deeply interested and wondering observer. It appeared to him as though the foresters had some secret means of intelligence which had escaped the vigilance of his own faculties. In place of that eager and garrulous narration, which a white youth would have endeavored to communicate, and perhaps exaggerate that which had passed out in the darkness of the plain, the young warrior was seemingly content to let his deed speak for themselves. It was in fact neither the moment nor the occasion for an Indian to boast of his exploits. And it is probably that had Hayward neglected to inquire not as another syllable just then had been uttered on the subject. What has become of our enemy, Uncus? demanded Duncan. We heard your rifle, and hoped that you had not fired in vain. The young chief removed a fold of his hunting-skirt and quietly exposed the fatal tuft of hair which he bore as the symbol of victory. Chinchgaach Cook laid his hand on the scalp and considered it for a moment with deep attention. Then dropping it with disgust depicted in his strong features he ejaculated. Oneida! Oneida! repeated the scout who was fast losing his interest in the scene in an apathy nearly assimilated to that of his red associates, but who now advanced in uncommon earnestness to regard the bloody badge. By the Lord, if the Oneidas are outlying on the trail, we shall be flanked by devils on every side of us. Now to white eyes there is no difference between this bit of skin and that of any other Indian, and yet the Sagamore declares it came from the pole of Amingo. Nay, he even names the tribe of the poor devil with as much ease as if the scalp was a leaf of a book and each hair a letter. What right have Christian whites to boast of their learning when a savage can read a language that would prove too much for the wisest man of them all? What say you lad, of what people was the nave? Ancus raised his eyes to the face of the scout and answered in his soft voice. Oneida! Oneida again! When one Indian speaks a declaration it is commonly true. But when he is supported by his people, set it down as gospel. The poor fellow has mistaken us for French, said Hayward, or he would not have tempted the life of a friend. He mistake a Mohican in his paint for a Huron? You would be as likely to mistake the white-coated grandeers of Ant-Calm for the scarlet jackets of the royal Americans returned the scout. No, no, the serpent knew his errand. Nor was there any great mistake in the matter, for there is but little love between a Delaware and a Minko. Let their tribes go out to fight for whom they may in a white coral. For that matter, though the Anidas do serve his sacred majesty, who is my sovereign lord and master, I should not have deliberated long about letting off Kildere to imp myself, had luck thrown him in my way. That would have been an abuse of our treaties and unworthy of your character. When a man can sort much with a people, continued Hawkeye, if they are honest and he know-nave, love will grow up or twist them. It is true that white cunning has managed to throw the tribes into great confusion, as respects friends and enemies, so that the Hurons and the Anidas, who speak the same tongue, or what may be called the same, take each other's scouts, and the Delaware's are divided among themselves, a few hanging about their great council fire on their own river, and fighting on the same side with the Minkos, while the greater part are in the Canada's, out of natural enmity to the Mokwas, thus throwing everything into disorder, and destroying all the harmony of warfare. Yet a red nature is not likely to alter with every shift of policy, so that the love of twist, a Mohican and a Mingo is much like the regard between a white man and a serpent. I regret to hear it, for I had believed that those natives who dwelt within our boundaries found us too just and liberal not to identify themselves fully with our quarrels. Why, I believe it is nature to give a preference to one's own quarrels before those of strangers. Now, for myself, I do love justice, and therefore I will not say I hate a Mingo, for that may be unsuitable to my color and my religion. Though I will just repeat, it may have been owing to the night that Kildir had no hand in the death of the Salking Oneida. Then, as if satisfied with the force of his own reasons, whatever may be their effect on the opinions of the other men, the honest but implacable woodsmen turned from the fire, content to let the controversy slumber. Hayward withdrew to the rampart, too uneasy and too little accustomed to the warfare of the woods to remain at ease under the possibility of such insidious attacks. Not so, however, with the scout and the Mohicans. Those acute and practiced senses, whose power so often exceeded the limits of all ordinary credulity, after having detected the danger, had enabled them to ascertain its magnitude and duration. Not one of the three appeared in the least to doubt their perfect security, as was indicated by the preparations that were soon made to sit in council over their future proceedings. The confusion of nations and even of tribes to which Hawkeye alluded existed at that period in the fullest force. The great tie of language and, of course, of a common origin was severed in many places, and it was one of its consequences that the Delaware and the Mingo, as the people of the Six Nations were called, were found fighting in the same ranks, while the latter sought the scalp of the Huron, though believed to be the root of his own stock. The Delaware's were even divided among themselves. Though love for the soil which had belonged to his ancestors kept the Sagamore of the Mohicans, with a small band of followers who were serving at Edward under the banners of the English king, by far the largest portion of his nation were known to be in the field as allies of Montcom. The reader probably knows, if enough has not already been gleaned from this narrative, that the Delaware or Lennipy claimed to be the progenitors of that numerous people who once were masters of most of the eastern and northern states of America, of whom the community of the Mohicans was an ancient and highly honored member. It was, of course, with a perfect understanding of the minute and the intricate interest which had armed friend against friend and brought natural enemies to combat their side, that the scout and his companions now disposed themselves to deliberate on the measures that were to govern their future movements amid so many jarring and savage races of men. Duncan knew enough of Indian customs to understand the reason that the fire was replenished, and why the warriors, not accepting Hawkeye, took their seats within the curl of its smoke with so much gravity and decorum. Placing himself at an angle of the works, where he might be a spectator of the scene without, he awaited the result with as much patience as he could summon. After a short and impressive pause, Chinchgoch Cook lighted a pipe whose ball was curiously carved in one of the soft stones of the country, and whose stem was a tube of wood. Commence smoking. When he had inhaled enough of the fragrance of the soothing weed, he passed the instrument into the hands of the scout. In this manner the pipe had made its round three several times amid the most profound silence before either of the party opened his lips. Then the Sagamore, as the oldest and highest in rank, in a few calm and dignified words, proposed the subject for deliberation. He was answered by the scout, and Chinchgoch Cook rejoined when the other objected to his opinions. But the youthful Unkas continued a silent and respectful listener, until Hawkeye, in complacence, demanded his opinion. Hayward gathered from the manners of the different speakers that the father and son espoused one side of a disputed question while the white man maintained the other. The contest gradually grew warmer, until it was quite evident the feelings of the speakers began to be somewhat enlisted in the debate. Notwithstanding the increasing warmth of the amicable contest, the most decorous Christian assembly, not even accepting those in which its reverent ministers are collected, might have learned a wholesome lesson of moderation from the forbearance and courtesy of the disputants. The words of Unkas were received with the same deep attention as those which fell from the mature wisdom of his father, and so far from manifesting any impatience, neither spoke in reply until a few moments of silent meditation were seemingly bestowed in deliberating on what had already been said. The language of the Mohicans was accompanied by gestures so direct and natural that Hayward had but little difficulty in following the thread of their argument. On the other hand, the scout was obscure because from the lingering pride of color he rather affected the cold and artificial manner which characterizes all classes of Anglo-Americans when unexcited. By the frequency with which the Indians described the marks of a forest trail, it was evident they urged pursuit by land. While the repeated sweep of Hawkeye's arm toward the hurricane denoted that he was for a passage across its waters, the latter was to every appearance fast losing ground, and the point was about to be decided against him when he rose to his feet, and shaking off his apathy he suddenly assumed the manner of an Indian and adopted all the arts of native eloquence. Elevating an arm he pointed out the track of the sun, repeating the gesture for every day that was necessary to accomplish their objects. Then he delineated a long and painful path amid rocks and water-courses. The age and weakness of the slumbering and unconscious morrow were indicated by signs too palpable to be mistaken. Duncan perceived that even his own powers were spoken lightly of, as the scout extended his palm and mentioned him by the appellation of, open hand, a name his liberality had purchased of all the friendly tribes. Then came a representation of the light and graceful movements of a canoe, set enforceable contrast to the tottering steps of one enfeebled and tired. He concluded by pointing to the scalp of the dada, and apparently urging the necessity of their departing speedily and in a manner that should leave no trail. The Mohicans listened gravely, and with countenances that reflected the sentiments of the speaker. Conviction gradually wrought its influence, and toward the close of Hawkeye's speech his sentences were accompanied by the customary exclamation of commendation. In short, Uncus and his father became converts to his way of speaking, abandoning their own previously expressed opinions with a liberality and candor that, had they been the representatives of some great and civilized people, would have infallibly worked their political ruin by destroying forever their reputation for consistency. The instant the matter in discussion was decided, the debate and everything connected with it except the result appeared to be forgotten. Hawkeye, without looking round to read his triumph in applauding eyes, very composedly stretched his tall frame before the dying embers, and closed his own organs in sleep, left now in a measure to themselves. The Mohicans, whose time had been so much devoted to the interest of others, seized the moment to devote some attention to themselves. Casting off at once the grave and austerity meaner of an Indian chief, Chinchgauchco commenced speaking to his son in the soft and playful tones of affection. Uncus gladly met the familiar error of his father, and before the hard breathing of the scout announced that he slept, a complete change was affected in the manner of his two associates. It is impossible to describe the music of their language, while thus engaged in laughter and endearments, in such a way as to render it intelligible to those whose ears have never listened to its melody. The compass of their voices, particularly that of the youth, was wonderful, extending from the deepest bass to tones that were even feminine in softness. The eyes of the father followed the plastic and ingenious movements of the sun with open delight, and he never failed to smile and reply to the others' contagious but low laughter. While under the influence of these gentle and natural feelings, no trace of ferocity was to be seen in the softened features of the Sagmor. His figured panopie of death looked more like a disguise assumed in mockery than a fierce denunciation of a desire to carry destruction in his footsteps. After an hour had passed in the indulgence of their better feelings, Cingegoch Cook abruptly announced his desire to sleep by wrapping his head in his blanket and stretching his form on the naked earth. The merriment of Uncus instantly ceased and carefully raking the coals in such a manner that they should impart their warmth to his father's feet. The youth sought his own pillow among the ruins of the place. Imbibing renewed confidence from the security of these experienced foresters, Hayward soon imitated their example, and long before the night had turned, they who lay in the bosom of the ruin worked, seemed to slumber as heavily as the unconscious multitude whose bones were already beginning to bleach on the surrounding plain. CHAPTER XIX LAND OF ALBANIA The heavens were still studded with stars when Hawkeye came to arouse the sleepers. Casting aside their cloaks, Monroe and Hayward were on their feet while the woodsman was still making his low calls at the entrance of the rude shelter where they had passed the night. When they issued from beneath its concealment, they found the scout awaiting their appearance nigh by, and the only salutation between them was the significant gesture of silence, made by their sagacious leader. THINK OVER YOUR PRAYERS, HE WISPERED AS THEY APPROACHED HIM, FOR HE TO WHOM YOU MAKE THEM KNOWS ALL TONGUES, THAT OF THE HEART, AS WELL AS THOSE OF THE MOUTH. But speak not a syllable. It is rare for a white voice to pitch itself properly in the woods, as we have seen by the example of that miserable devil, the singer. Come, he continued, turning toward a curtain of the works. Let us get into the ditch on this side, and be regardedful to step on the stones and fragments of wood as you go. His companions complied, though to two of them the reasons for this extraordinary precaution were yet a mystery. When they were in the low cavity that surrounded the earth and fort on three sides, they found that passage nearly choked by the ruins. With care and patience, however, they succeeded in clambering after the scout until they reached the sandy shore of the Horrican. That's a trail that nothing but a nose can follow, said the satisfied scout, looking back along their difficult way. Grass is a treacherous carpet for a flying party to tread on, but wood and stone take no print from a moccasin. Had you worn your iron boots, there might indeed have been something to fear. But with the deer-skins suitably prepared, a man may trust himself, generally, on rocks with safety. Shove in the canoe nire to the land, Uncus. This sand will take a stamp as easily as the butter of the Germans on the Mohawk. Softly, lad, softly, it must not touch the beach, or the knaves will know by what road we have left the place. The young man observed the precaution, and the scout, laying aboard from the ruins to the canoe, made a sign for the two officers to enter. When this was done, everything was studiously restored to its former disorder, and then Hawkeye succeeded in reaching his little birch and vessel without leaving behind any of those marks which he appeared so much to dread. Hayward was silent until the Indians had cautiously paddled the canoe some distance from the fort, and with the broad and dark shadows that fell from the eastern mountain on the glassy surface of the lake, then he demanded, What need have we for this stolen and hurried departure? If the blood of an Anida could stain such a sheet of pure water as this we float on, returned the scout, your two eyes would answer your own question. Have you forgotten the skulking wrapped how Uncus slew? He had no means, but he was said to be alone, and dead men give no cause for fear. I, he was alone in his deviltry, but an Indian whose tribe counts so many warriors, needs seldom fear his blood will run without the death streak coming speedily from some of his enemies. But our presence, the authority of Colonel Monroe, would have sufficient protection against the anger of our allies, especially in a case where the rich so well merited his fate. I trust in heaven you have not deviated a single foot from the direct line of our course with so slight a reason. Do you think the bullet of that varlet's rifle would have turned aside, though his sacred majesty the king had stood in its path? returned the stubborn scout. Why did not the grand Frencher, he who is captain general of the Canada's, bury the tomahawk of the Hurons, if a word from a white can work so strongly on the nature of an Indian? The reply of Hayward was interrupted by a groan from Monroe. But after he had paused a moment, in deference to the sorrow of his aged friend, he resumed the subject. The Marquis of Moncombe can only settle that air with his god, said the young man solemnly. Aye, aye, now there is reason in your word. For they are bottomed on religion and honesty. There is a vast difference between throwing a regiment of white coats, a twix the tribes and the prisoners, and coaxing an angry savage to forget he carries a knife and rifle, with words that must begin with calling him your son. No, no, continued the scout, looking back at the dim shore of William Henry, which was now fast receding, and laughing in his own silent but heartfelt manner. I have put a trail of water between us, and unless the imps can make friends with the fishes, and hear who has paddled across their basin, this fine warning shall throw the length of the hurricane behind us, before they have made up their minds which path to take. With foes in front and foes in our rear, our journey is like to be one of danger. Danger, repeated Hawkeye calmly. No, not absolutely of danger, for with vigilant ears and quick eyes, we can manage to keep a few hours ahead of the waves. Or if we must try the rifle, there are three of us who understand its gifts, as well as any you can name on the borders. No, not of danger, but that we shall have what you may call a brisk push of it is probable, and it may happen, a brush, a scrimmage, or some such diversion, but always where the covers are good, and ammunition abundant. It is possible the Hayward's estimate of danger differed in some degree from that of the scout, for instead of replying he now sat in silence while the canoe glided over several miles of water. Just as the day dawned, they entered the narrows of the lake, and stole swiftly and cautiously among their numberless little islands. The beauties of Lake George are well known to every American tourist. In the height of the mountains which surround it, and in the artificial accessories, it is inferior to the finest of the Swiss and Italian lakes. While in outline impurity of water it is fully their equal, and in the number and disposition of its isles and islets, much superior to them all either. There are said to be some hundreds of islands in a sheet of water less than thirty miles long. The narrows which connect what may be called in truth two lakes, are crowded with islands to such a degree as to leave passages between them frequently of only a few feet in width. The lake itself varies in breadth from one to three miles. It was by this road that Montcalm had retired with his army, and the adventurers knew not, but he had left some of his Indians in ambush to protect the rear of his forces and collect the stragglers. They therefore approached the passage with the customary silence of their guarded habits. Chinchgoch Cook laid aside his paddle, while Uncus and the Scout urged the light vessel through crooked and intricate channels, where every foot that they advanced exposed them to the danger of some sudden rising on their progress. The eyes of the Sagamore moved warily from islet to islet and cops to cops. As the canoe proceeded, and when a clear sheet of water permitted, his keen vision was bent along the bald rocks and impending forests that frowned upon the narrow strait. Hayward, who was a doubly interested spectator, as well from the beauties of the place, as from the apprehension natural to his situation, was just believing that he had permitted the later to be excited without sufficient reason when the paddle ceased moving in obedience to a signal from Chinchgoch Cook. Huh! exclaimed Uncus, nearly at the moment that the light tap his father had made on the side of the canoe notified them of the vicinity of danger. What now? asked the scout. The lake is as smooth as if the winds had never blown, and I can see along its sheet for miles. There is not so much as the blackhead of a loon dotting the water. The Indian gravely raised his paddle and pointed in the direction in which his own steady look was riveted. Duncan's eyes followed the motion. A few rods in the front lay another of the boats, but it appeared as calm and peaceful as if solitude had never been disturbed by the foot of man. I see nothing, he said, but land and water, and a lovely scene it is. Sst! interrupted the scout. I, Sagamore, there is always a reason for what you do. Tis but a shade, and yet it is not natural. You see the mist major that is rising above the island? You can't call it a fog, for it is more like a streak of thin cloud. It is vapor from the water. That a child could tell. But what is the edging of black or smoke that hangs on its lower side, and which you may trace down into the thicket of hazel? Tis from a fire, but one that in my judgment has been suffered to burn low. Let us then push for the place and relieve our doubts, said the impatient Duncan. The party must be small that can lie on such a bit of land. If you judge of Indian cunning by the rules you find in books, or by white sagacity, they will lead you astray if not to your death, returned Hawkeye, examining the signs of the place with that acuteness which distinguished him. If I may be permitted to speak in this matter, it will be to say that we have but two things to choose between. The one is to return and give up all thoughts of following the Hurons. Never exclaimed Hayward in a voice far too loud for their circumstances. Well, continued Hawkeye, making a hasty sign to repress his impatience. I am much of your mind myself, though I thought it becoming my experience to tell the whole. We must then make a push. And if the Indians or Frenchers are in the Narrows, run the gauntlet through these toppling mountains. Is there reason in my words, Sagamore? The Indian made no answer other than by dropping his paddle into the water and urging forward the canoe. As he held the office of directing its course, his resolution was sufficiently indicated by the movement. The whole party now plied their paddles vigorously, and in a very few moments they had reached a point, once they might command an entire view of the northern shore of the island, the side that had hitherto been concealed. There they are, by all the truth of the signs, whispered the scout. Two canoes and a smoke. The nays haven't got their eyes out of the mist, or we should hear it the accursed hoop. To the gather-friends, we are leaving them, and we are already nearly out of whistle of a bullet. The well-known crack of a rifle, whose ball came skipping along the placid surface of the strait, and a shrill yell from the island interrupted his speech and announced that their passage was discovered. In another instant several savages were seen rushing into canoes, which were soon dancing over the water in pursuit. These fearful precursors of a coming struggle produced no change in the countenance and movements of his three guides so far as Duncan could discover, except that the strokes of the paddle were longer and more in unison, and caused the little bark to spring forward like a creature possessing life and volition. Hold them there, Sagmor said Hawkeye, looking coolly backward over his left shoulder. While he still plied his paddle, keep them just there. Them herons have never a peace in their nation that will execute at this distance. But Kildir has a barrel on which a man may calculate. The scout, having ascertained that the Mahekans were sufficient of themselves to maintain the requisite's distance, deliberately laid aside his paddle and raised the fatal rifle. Three several times he brought the peace to his shoulder, and when his companions were expecting its report, he is often lowered it to request the Indians would permit their enemies to approach a little nire. At length his accurate and fastidious eye seemed satisfied. And throwing out his left arm on the barrel, he was slowly elevating the muzzle when an exclamation from Uncus who sat at the bow once more caused him to suspend the shot. What now, lad? demanded Hawkeye. You save a Huron from the Death-Streak by that word. Have you reason for what you do? Uncus pointed toward a rocky shore a little in their front, once another war canoe was darting directly across their course. It was too obvious now that their situation was imminently perilous to need the aid of language to confirm it. The scout laid aside his rifle and resumed the paddle, while Chinchgoch cooking climbed the bow's of the canoe a little toward the western shore in order to increase the distance between them and this new enemy. In the meantime they were reminded of the presence of those who pressed upon their rear by wild and exalting shouts. Their stirring scene awakened even Monroe from his apathy. Let us make for the rocks on the mean, dead, with the mean of a tired soldier, and give battle to the savages. God forbid that I, or those attached to me and mine, should ever trust again to the faith of any servant of the Louise. He who wishes to prosper in Indian warfare, returned the scout, must not be too proud to learn from the wit of a native. Lay her more along the land, Sagamore. We are doubling on the violets and perhaps they may try to strike our trail on the long calculation. Hawkeye was not mistaken. For when the Huron found their course was likely to throw them behind their chase, they rendered it less direct, until, by gradually bearing more and more obliquely, the two canoes were air long gliding on parallel lines within two hundred yards of each other. It now became entirely a trial of speed. So rapid was the progress of the light vessels, that the lake curled in their front in miniature waves, and their motion became undulating by its own velocity. It was perhaps owing to this circumstance, in addition to the necessity of keeping every hand employed at the paddles, that the Hurons had not immediate recourse to their firearms. The exertions of the fugitives were too severe to continue long, and the pursuers had the advantage of numbers. Duncan observed with uneasiness that the scout began to look anxiously about him, as if searching for some further means of assisting their flight. Edge her a little more from the sun, Sagamore, said the stubborn woodsman. I see the knaves are sparing a man to the rifle. A single broken bone might lose us our scalps. Edge more from the sun, and we will put the island between us. The expedient was not without its use. A long, low island lay at a little distance before them, and, as they closed with it, the chasing canoe was compelled to take a sight opposite to that on which the pursued passed. The scout and his companions did not neglect this advantage, but the instant they were hid from observation by the bushes, they redoubled efforts that before had seen prodigious. The two canoes came round the last low point, like two coarsers at the top of their speed, the fugitives taking the lead. This change had brought them nire to each other, however, while it altered their relative position. You showed knowledge in the shaping of a birch and bark, Uncus, when you chose this from among the Huron canoes, said the scout smiling. Apparently warrants satisfaction of their superiority in the race than from a prospect of final escape, which now began to open a little upon them. The hymps have put all their strength again at the paddles, and we are to struggle for our scout with bits of flattened wood, instead of clouded barrels and true eyes. A long stroke, and together, friends. They are preparing for a shot, said Hayward, and as we are in line with them it can scarcely fail. Get you then into the bottom of the canoe, returned the scout, you and the Colonel. It will be so much taken from the size of the mark. Hayward smiled as he answered. It would be an ill example for the highest in rank to dodge, while the warriors were under fire. Lord, Lord, that is now a white man's courage, exclaimed the scout, and like too many of his notions, not to be sustained by reason. Do you think the Sagamore or Ancus, or even I who am a man without a cross, would deliberate upon finding a cover in the scrimmage when an open body would do no good? For what have the Frenchers reared up their Quebec, if fighting is always to be done in the clearings? All that you say is very true, my friend, replied Hayward. Still, our customs must prevent us from doing as you wish. A volley from the Hurons interrupted the discourse, and as the bullets whistled about them, Duncan saw the head of Ancus turned looking back at himself and Monroe. Notwithstanding the nearness of the enemy, and his own great personal danger, the countenance of the young warrior expressed no other emotion as the former was compelled to think, then amazement at finding men so willing to encounter so useless an exposure. Chinchgauch Cook was probably better acquainted with the notions of white men. For he did not even cast a glance aside from the riveted look his eye maintained on the object by which he governed their course. A ball soon struck the light and polished paddle from the hands of the chief and drove it through the air far in the advance. A shout arose from the Hurons who seized the opportunity to fire another volley. Ancus described an arc in the water with his own blade, and as the canoes passed swiftly on, Chinchgauch Cook covered his paddle, and flourishing and on high he gave the war-hoop of the Mohicans and then lent his strength and skill again to the important task. The clamorous sounds of Le Gros Serpent, Le Long Caribbean, Le Surfe Gilles burst at once from the canoes behind and seemed to give new zeal to the pursuers. The scout seized Kildir in his left hand, and elevating above his head he shook it in triumph at his enemies. The savages answered the insult with a yell and immediately another volley seceded. The bullets patterned along the lake and one even pierced the bark of their little vessel. No perceptible emotion could be discovered in the Mohicans during this critical moment. Their rigid features expressing neither hope nor alarm, but the scout again turned his head and, laughing in his own silent manner, he said to Hayward, the naves loved to hear the sound of their pieces. But the eye was not to be found among the mingos that can calculate a true range in a dancing canoe. You see the dumb devils have taken off a man to charge, and by the smallest measurement that can be allowed we move three feet to their two. Duncan, who was not altogether as easy under this nice estimate of distances as his companion, was glad to find, however, that owing to their superior dexterity and the diversion among their enemies, they were very sensibly obtaining the advantage. The Huron soon fired again and a bullet struck the blade of Hawkeye's paddle without injury. That will do, said the scout, examining the slight indentation with a curious eye. It would not have cut the skin of an infant much less of men who, like us, have been blown upon by the heavens in their anger. Now, Major, if you will try to use this piece of flattened wood, I'll let the real deer take part in the conversation. Hayward seized the paddle and applied himself to the work with an eagerness that supplied the place of skill, while Hawkeye was engaged in inspecting the priming of his rifle. The later then took a swift aim and fired. The Huron and the bowels of the leading canoe had risen with a similar object, and he now fell backwards, suffering his gun to escape from his hands into the water. His feet, though his gestures were wild and bewildered, at the same moment his companion suspended their efforts, and the chasing canoes clustered together and became stationary. Chinshkachkuk and Ankes profited by the interval to regain their win, though Duncan continued to work with the most persevering industry. The father and son now cast calm but inquiring glances at each other to learn if either had sustained any injury by the fire, and both well knew that no cry or exclamation would in such a moment of necessity have been permitted to betray the accident. A few large drops of blood were trickling down the shoulder of the Sagamore. Who, when he perceived the eyes of Ankes dwelt too long on the sight, raised some water in the hollow of his hand and washing off the stain was content to manifest in this simple manner the slightness of the injury. Ankes said the scout, who by this time had reloaded his rifle, we are a little too far already for a rifle to put forth its beauties, and you see yonder imps are holding a counsel. Let them come within striking distance. My eye may well be trusted in such a matter, and I will trail the violets the length of the hurricane, guaranteeing that not a shot of theirs shall at the worst more than break the skin, while their shell touched the life twice in three times. We forget our error and return the diligent Duncan, for God's sake let us profit by this advantage and increase our distance from the enemy. Give me my children, said Monroe hoarsely, trifle no longer with a father's agony, but restown me my babes. Long and habitual deference to the mandates of his superiors had taught the scout the virtue of obedience. Throwing a last and lingering glance at the distant canoes he laid aside his rifle and, relieving the weary Duncan, resumed the paddle which he wielded with sinews that never tired. His efforts were seconded by those of the Mohicans, and a very few minutes served to place such a sheet of water between them and their enemies that Hayward once more breathed freely. The lake now began to expand and their route lay along a wide reach that was lined as before by high and ragged mountains. But the islands were few and easily avoided. The strokes of the paddles grew more measured and regular, while they who plied them continued their labor after the close and deadly chase from which they had just relieved themselves with as much coolness as though their speed had been tried in support rather than under such pressing desperate circumstances. Instead of following the western shore, whether their errand led them, the weary Mohican inclined his course more toward those hills behind which Montcom was known to let his army into the formidable fortress of Ticonderoga. As the Hurons, to every appearance, had to abandon the pursuit, there was no apparent reason for this excess of caution. It was, however, maintained for hours until they had reached a bay neither northern termination of the lake. Here the canoe was driven upon the beach and the whole party landed. Hawkeye and Hayward ascended an adjacent bluff where the former, after considering the expanse of water beneath him, pointed out to the ladder a small black object hovering under a headland at the distance of several miles. Do you see it? demanded the scout. Now, what would you account that spot where you left alone to white experience to find your way through this wilderness? But for its distance and its magnitude, I would suppose it a bird. Can it be a living object? Tis a canoe of birch and bark and paddled by fierce and crafty mingos. Though Providence has lent to those who inhabit the woods, eyes that would be needless in the settlements where there are inventions to assist the sight. Yet no human organs can see all the dangers which at this moment circumvent us. These violets pretend to be bent chiefly on their sundown meal, but the moment it is dark they will be on our trail as true as hounds on the scent. We must throw them off or our pursuit of a renowned sub-two may be given up. These lakes are useful at times, especially when the game take to the water, continue the scout, gazing about him with accountants of concern. But they give no cover, except it be to the fishes. God knows what the country would be if the settlement should spread far from the two rivers. Both hunting and war would lose their beauty. Let us not delay a moment without some good and obvious cause. I little like that smoke which you may see warming up along the rock above the canoe interrupted the abstracted scout. My life on it other eyes than ours see it and know its meaning. Well, words will not mend the matter, and it is time that we were doing. Hawkeye moved away from the lookout and descended, musing profoundly to the shore. He communicated the result of his observations to his companions in nowhere, and a short and earnest consultation succeeded. When it terminated, the three instantly set about executing their new resolutions. The canoe was lifted from the water and born on the shoulders of the party. They proceeded into the wood, making as broad and obvious a trail as possible. They soon reached the water course, which they crossed and continuing onward until they came to an extensive and naked rock. At this point, where their footsteps might be expected to be no longer visible, they retraced their route to the brook walking backward with the utmost care. They now followed the bed of the little stream to the lake, into which they immediately launched their canoe again. A low point concealed them from the headland, and the margin of the lake was fringe for some distance with dense or hanging bushes. Under the cover of these natural advantages, they toiled their way with patient industry until the scout pronounced that he believed it would be safe once more to land. The halt continued until evening rendered objects indistinct and uncertain to the eye. Then they resumed their route, and favored by the darkness, pushed silently invigorously toward the western shore. Although the rugged outline of a mountain to which they were steering presented no distinctive marks to the eyes of Duncan, the Mohican entered the little haven he had selected with the confidence and accuracy of an experienced pilot. The boat was again lifted and born into the woods where it was carefully concealed under a pile of brush. The adventurers assumed their arms and packs, and the scout announced to Monroe and Hayward that he and the Indians were at least in readiness to proceed. End of Chapter 20 This reading by Gary W. Sherwood