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diff --git a/.gitattributes b/.gitattributes new file mode 100644 index 0000000..d7b82bc --- /dev/null +++ b/.gitattributes @@ -0,0 +1,4 @@ +*.txt text eol=lf +*.htm text eol=lf +*.html text eol=lf +*.md text eol=lf diff --git a/LICENSE.txt b/LICENSE.txt new file mode 100644 index 0000000..6312041 --- /dev/null +++ b/LICENSE.txt @@ -0,0 +1,11 @@ +This eBook, including all associated images, markup, improvements, +metadata, and any other content or labor, has been confirmed to be +in the PUBLIC DOMAIN IN THE UNITED STATES. + +Procedures for determining public domain status are described in +the "Copyright How-To" at https://www.gutenberg.org. + +No investigation has been made concerning possible copyrights in +jurisdictions other than the United States. Anyone seeking to utilize +this eBook outside of the United States should confirm copyright +status under the laws that apply to them. diff --git a/README.md b/README.md new file mode 100644 index 0000000..e79f7a0 --- /dev/null +++ b/README.md @@ -0,0 +1,2 @@ +Project Gutenberg (https://www.gutenberg.org) public repository for +eBook #62684 (https://www.gutenberg.org/ebooks/62684) diff --git a/old/62684-8.txt b/old/62684-8.txt deleted file mode 100644 index d64b9a1..0000000 --- a/old/62684-8.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,6720 +0,0 @@ -The Project Gutenberg eBook, The Belt of Seven Totems, by Kirk Munroe, -Illustrated by Emlen McConnell - - -This eBook is for the use of anyone anywhere in the United States and most -other parts of the world 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. If you are not located in the United States, you'll have -to check the laws of the country where you are located before using this ebook. - - - - -Title: The Belt of Seven Totems - A Story of Massasoit - - -Author: Kirk Munroe - - - -Release Date: July 17, 2020 [eBook #62684] - -Language: English - -Character set encoding: ISO-8859-1 - - -***START OF THE PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK THE BELT OF SEVEN TOTEMS*** - - -E-text prepared by Martin Pettit and the Online Distributed Proofreading -Team (http://www.pgdp.net) from page images generously made available by -Internet Archive (https://archive.org) - - - -Note: Project Gutenberg also has an HTML version of this - file which includes the original illustrations. - See 62684-h.htm or 62684-h.zip: - (http://www.gutenberg.org/files/62684/62684-h/62684-h.htm) - or - (http://www.gutenberg.org/files/62684/62684-h.zip) - - - Images of the original pages are available through - Internet Archive. See - https://archive.org/details/beltofseventotem00munr - - - - - -THE BELT OF SEVEN TOTEMS - -Ninth Impression - - - * * * * * * - -_BOOKS BOYS LIKE_ - -_PIRATES OF THE DELAWARE_ -By RUPERT SARGENT HOLLAND - A stirring tale of Philadelphia a hundred years ago when highwaymen - rode out of the shadows on the way to the Green Anchor Inn and - mysterious craft lay in hiding off the Delaware Capes. Attractively - illustrated. - -_HERO TALES OF OUR NAVY_ -By GEORGE GIBBS - Famous sea victories from the time the first little American-built - frigate sailed out against a British man-o'-war to the days when - the Allied fleet patrolled the North Sea. 14 Illustrations by the - author. - -_DO IT YOURSELF_ -By DAN BEARD - A book of the big outdoors. How to pitch a tent, how to fish, build - a canoe, take a collection hike, catch wild animals and many other - things a scout must know. Latest volume in Dan Beard's Woodcraft - Series. 306 Inimitable sketches by the author. - -_AMERICAN TRAIL BLAZERS_ - A splendid collection of stories, based on historical facts, - which has done much to revive the early and adventurous phases of - American history for boys. The story grips and the history sticks. - Each volume finely illustrated in color and black and white. - - * * * * * * - - -[Illustration: HE WAS SEIZED BY TWO PAIR OF BRAWNY HANDS AND DRAGGED -INBOARD Page 193] - - -THE BELT OF SEVEN TOTEMS - -A Story of Massasoit - -by - -KIRK MUNROE - -Author of "Under the Great Bear," "Brethren of the -Coast," "Rick Dale," "Forward March," -"The 'Mates'' Series," etc. - -Illustrated by Emlen Mcconnell - - -[Illustration: Logo] - - - - - - -Philadelphia & London -J. B. Lippincott Company - -Copyright, 1901, by Kirk Munroe - -Printed by J. B. Lippincott Company -at the Washington Square Press -Philadelphia, U. S. A. - - - - -_TO MY READERS_ - - -The following story is not intended as a history; it is merely an -effort to reconcile certain apparently conflicting facts and to explain -an otherwise inexplicable situation. At the time of the Pilgrim Fathers -all American Indians--not excepting those of New England--had suffered -repeated outrage at the hands of white men, and in no case had they -been given cause to love the invaders of their country or to welcome -their presence. Why, then, did the powerful Massasoit permit a white -invasion of his territory that he could so easily have crushed? A -friendship existed from the very first between him and Edward Winslow, -and the latter seems to have exercised a great influence over the -New England sachem. What was the origin of this friendship? The -Narragansetts, while submitting to Massasoit's authority, were always -in sullen opposition to it. Why? It is to answer these questions to my -own satisfaction that I have constructed the theory herewith advanced. - -Many New England natives were kidnapped and taken to various parts -of Europe. Why might not Massasoit have been among them? The wampum -belt, on which was pictured the distinguishing totems of seven leading -New England clans, was worn by both Massasoit and Metacomet (King -Philip), his son, and is still in existence. Tasquanto (Squanto) was -kidnapped from Cape Cod and taken to England, where he remained for -several years. Captain Dermer carried a number of native Americans to -London, where he sold them to be exhibited as curiosities. He finally -died of wounds received at the hands of New England Indians. Champlain -did aid a war-party of Hurons to defeat the Iroquois in one instance, -and in another was defeated by the same foe. Thus, while my story is -admittedly fictional, it has a substantial historical basis. - -KIRK MUNROE. - - - - -_CONTENTS_ - -CHAPTER PAGE - I. THE VILLAGE OF PEACE 9 - - II. CANONICUS MAKES TROUBLE 18 - - III. AT THE CROSSING OF THE SHA 28 - - IV. THE BELT CHANGES HANDS 38 - - V. WHAT THE DAUGHTERS OF KAWERAS FOUND 50 - - VI. IN THE LODGE OF THE ARROW-MAKER 60 - - VII. NAHMA JOINS A WAR-PARTY 70 - - VIII. TWO YOUNG SCOUTS 81 - - IX. ON THE LAKE 91 - - X. AN OKI OF THE WATERS 101 - - XI. THE COMING OF SACANDAGA 111 - - XII. A MEETING OF DEADLY FOES 121 - - XIII. TO THE LODGES OF THE WHITE MAN 131 - - XIV. TWO INMATES OF A GUARD-HOUSE 141 - - XV. THE BITTER WINTER OF CANADA 151 - - XVI. A DASH FOR LIBERTY 162 - - XVII. A DEATH-DEALING THUNDER-STICK 172 - - XVIII. KIDNAPPED 183 - - XIX. SOLD AS A SLAVE 194 - - XX. ONE FRIENDLY FACE 206 - - XXI. A CHANGE OF MASTERS 217 - - XXII. NAHMA AND THE BEAR RUN AW 228 - - XXIII. AN HONORED GUEST 238 - - XXIV. NAHMA REMEMBERS 248 - - XXV. BACK TO AMERICA 259 - - XXVI. SASSACUS THE PEQUOT 270 - - XXVII. A ROYAL HOME-COMING 281 - -XXVIII. IN THE COUNCIL-LODGE 292 - - XXIX. WINNING A BATTLE, A WIFE, AND A FRIEND 303 - - XXX. THE PILGRIMS OF PLYMOUTH 314 - - - - -_LIST OF ILLUSTRATIONS_ - - PAGE -HE WAS SEIZED BY TWO PAIR OF BRAWNY HANDS AND DRAGGED -INBOARD _Frontispiece._ - -AS SHE CAUGHT A GLIMPSE OF THE WOUNDED YOUTH THE PROGRESS -OF THE CANOE WAS INSTANTLY ARRESTED 56 - -NAHMA SPRANG UPON THE WHITE MAN WITH UPLIFTED KNIFE 129 - -"LOOK, THEN, AND TREMBLE, THOU DOG OF A MURDERER" 290 - - - - -_THE BELT OF SEVEN TOTEMS_ - - - - -CHAPTER I - -THE VILLAGE OF PEACE - - -In the olden days when the whole land belonged to the red man the -village of Longfeather the Peacemaker was located on the river of Sweet -Waters, nearly one hundred miles, as the crow flies, from the place -where it flows into the sea. Its ruler was Longfeather, the only son -of Nassaup, sachem of the Wampanoags, and a man wise enough to realize -that peace was better for his people than war. So he had sent his only -son, when still a mere youth, to one after another of the surrounding -tribes that he might learn their language and establish friendships -among them. Thus Longfeather had lived for months at a time among -all the tribes dwelling east of the Shatemuc and the country of the -terrible Iroquois. He had travelled as far north as the land of the -Abenakis, from whom he learned to make snow-shoes and to construct -canoes of birchen bark. He had visited the Nipmucks and Nausets of the -eastern coast, who taught him many secrets of the salt waters from -which they gained their living. He had journeyed to the southward, -spending a year with the Narragansetts and another with the Pequots, -the wampum-making tribes. Then for a long time he had remained with the -warlike Mohicans, whose great chieftain Tamenand loved him as a son, -and taught him from his own wisdom until Longfeather became wisest of -all Indians dwelling in the region afterwards known as New England. - -So many seasons of corn-planting and harvest did the youth spend in -travel and study among the tribes, that when he finally turned his -face towards his own people he was become a man in years as well as in -stature and strength. So it happened that he tarried again among the -Pequots until he had won for a bride Miantomet, a daughter of their -sachem. The principal industry of this tribe being the production of -wampum, which was made in the form of cylindrical beads, white, black, -purple, and sometimes red, cut from sea-shells, Longfeather's bride was -presented with a vast store of this precious material in the form of -strings and belts, so that in winning her the young man also acquired -much wealth. - -To fittingly celebrate the home-coming of his son, Nassaup commanded a -great feast that should last for seven days, and to it were invited the -headmen of all the tribes in which Longfeather had made friends. The -place chosen for this notable gathering was the mouth of a beautiful -valley, centrally located for the convenience of the several tribes, -and gently sloping to the river of Sweet Waters. Here, then, in early -autumn, at the full of the harvest moon, were gathered hundreds of -the leading sannups of the wide-spread territory bounded by the great -white river (St. Lawrence) on the north, the salt waters that bathe -the rising sun on the east and south, and the Shatemuc (Hudson) on the -west. These, together with their families, formed an assemblage larger -and more important than any that could be recalled even by tradition, -and while much of their time was devoted to feasting and dancing, they -also discussed questions of great significance. - -One of these was the meaning of a vast ball of fire, that, brighter -than the sun and glowing with many colors, had shot athwart an evening -sky on the night of Longfeather's marriage to Miantomet. To some this -phenomenon portended evil, while to others it was an omen of good -promise; but all were convinced that it was connected in some way with -the fortunes of Longfeather. - -Another matter discussed early and late with unflagging interest was -the rumored appearance in remote regions of a race of beings having -human form, but unlike any heretofore known. They were said to have -white skins and hairy faces, and were believed to control thunder and -lightning, which they used for the destruction of all who came in their -way. Some of them were also described as bestriding fire-breathing -monsters of such ferocity that they carried death and destruction -wherever they went. Most of these rumors came from the south and from -lands so remote that they had been many months travelling from tribe -to tribe and from mouth to mouth. Whether the beings thus imperfectly -described were gods or devils none could tell. At the same time those -who heard of them agreed that in spite of their form they could not be -human, for were not all men made in one likeness, with red skins, black -hair, and smooth faces? - -It was disquieting that, while most of these rumors came from the -far-distant south, some of them also came from the north, and located -the white-skinned strangers not more than a month's journey away. At -the same time it was comforting to have all stories agree that, while -they appeared from the ocean borne on the backs of vast winged monsters -of the deep, they always, after a while, disappeared again as they had -come. - -Longfeather further reassured those who discussed these matters by -relating a tradition that he had received from Tamenand. It concerned -other supernatural visitants who had once come even to the land of the -Wampanoags; but so long ago that not even the great-grandfather of the -oldest man living had seen them. They also were described as of white -skin and having hair on their faces. It was not told that they rode -fire-breathing dragons, or that they were armed with thunderbolts, but -they had come from the sea and returned into it again when they were -ready for departure. To be sure, they had slain many of the native -dwellers and caused great fear throughout the land, but after going -away they had never again been seen. To this day, however, traces of -their visitation remained in the form of certain pictured rocks that -they had inscribed, and which no man might remove or even touch, under -penalty of death. - -The simple-minded forest-dwellers listened to these tales with the same -dread that would inspire us of to-day upon hearing that inhabitants of -some distant planet, bringing death-dealing weapons that were unknown -to us, had invaded the world. They shuddered, gazing furtively about -them as they listened, and drew closer together as though for mutual -protection. Although the fears thus aroused sobered the red-skinned -assemblage and left it in small humor for further festivities, -this was not regretted by Nassaup, since it rendered them the more -willing to listen to a plan that he wished to propose. It was one so -long considered that it had become the chief desire of his life, and -was nothing more nor less than a federation of all the tribes there -represented, in the interests of peace, mutual aid, and protection. -For two days was this proposition discussed, and then it was accepted. -A belt of wampum, on which was worked his own totem, was given to -each of the seven head chiefs present, and a great belt of the same -material, in which the seven totems were combined, was presented to -Longfeather. On account of his wisdom he had been unanimously chosen -to rule the allied tribes, and this Belt of Seven Totems was the badge -of his authority. So Longfeather became Peacemaker and Lawgiver to all -that region, and on account of its central location he established his -official head-quarters upon the very spot where the great assemblage -had been held. Thus was founded the village of Peace, in which all -questions affecting relations between the tribes were discussed and -treaties were made. It was a place of refuge to which all persons -accused of wrong-doing and in danger of their lives might flee, with a -certainty of protection until their cases could be considered by the -Peacemaker. It also became a trading-point to which were attracted the -skilled makers of such articles as were most in demand among the tribes. - -Large areas of nearby lands were brought under cultivation, and these, -fertilized with fish taken in quantities from the teeming river, -produced wonderful crops of beans, maize, and pumpkins. No war-parties -ever visited the village of Peace, but there was a constant coming -and going of strangers. To it travelled the Abenakis, bringing furs, -maple-sugar, and highly prized ornaments of copper that had come to -them from the far west. Here they exchanged these things for bales of -dried fish from the eastern coast, seal-skins, or belts of wampum. -Here, also, they found expert makers of flint arrow-heads, knives, and -hatchets, weavers of mats, and workers in clay, from whom they might -procure rude vessels of earthen-ware. - -Above all, here dwelt Longfeather, to whom could be submitted all -disputed questions, with a certainty that he would settle them wisely -and justly. Thus it happened that the village of Peace became the -political capital and chief trading-point of all New England long -before ever a white man had set foot in that region. Here, too, -some twenty years after its founding, was born Nahma, the son of -Longfeather, a lad whose strange adventures in after-life are now for -the first time about to be related. - - - - -CHAPTER II - -CANONICUS MAKES TROUBLE - - -The boy thus introduced was carefully trained for the high position -that he must some time fill. Although from his father he never heard an -impatient or an unkind word, he was taught to respect his elders and to -yield the most implicit obedience to those in authority over him. As -soon as he was old enough to comprehend what he heard and saw he was -permitted to sit beside the Peacemaker and listen to the discussion -of matters affecting the well-being of the tribes. From Longfeather -himself, from the old men of the village, and from the visitors who -journeyed to it Nahma learned the traditions of his people. His father -also taught him to distinguish the totems of tribes or clans, together -with their significance, and illustrated his lessons by means of the -pictured belts that hung in the council-house. From these same teachers -Nahma also learned to believe in witchcraft and magic, by which alone -were they able to account for many natural phenomena. Thus even in the -years of his youth there came to Nahma a wisdom beyond that of all -other lads, and his name became known from one end of the land to the -other. - -Nor during this time of mental training was that of his body neglected. -Every day, even in the depth of winter, when ice must be broken before -water could be reached, he was made to plunge into the river or the -sea to toughen him and harden his flesh. He was taught to swim and to -paddle a canoe before he could walk; and often in later years when -trained runners were sent by Longfeather with messages to distant -tribes, the lad was allowed to accompany them, that he might learn the -trails, familiarize himself with remote localities and people, and -acquire the art of traversing great spaces in the shortest possible -time. So fleet of foot and so strong of wind did he thus become that he -at one time covered the distance between the village of Peace and the -sand-dunes of the Nausets on the edge of the great salt water between -two suns, a feat never before accomplished, and at which all men -marvelled. - -After this Nahma was frequently chosen to be his father's messenger -on occasions of importance, and very proud was the young warrior of -the trust thus reposed in him. Thus it happened that one day in the -lad's eighteenth year, when a matter of grave import demanded prompt -communication with a distant point in a region of danger, Longfeather -naturally turned to Nahma, his son. - -Troublous times had come, and the safety of the region so long ruled -by the Peacemaker was seriously threatened. To consider the situation -Longfeather had assembled a council of the tribes at Montaup, on the -edge of the salt water. This was the great gathering-place of the -Wampanoags, and to it their chieftain with his family was accustomed to -resort during the heated months of each summer. So here the council was -met, and after the calumet had passed entirely around its seated circle -Longfeather addressed the chiefs as follows: - -"It is well that we are come together, for the shadow of trouble is -upon us like that of a black cloud hiding the sun. While we be of many -tribes we have until now been of one heart, and even from the days -of Nassaup, my father, have we dwelt at peace one with another. Now, -however, is that peace threatened, and I have summoned you to see what -may be done." - -Here the speaker took one from a bundle of small sticks and handed it -to the oldest chief, saying, "Take this peace-stick, my brother, and -remember its meaning." Then to the others he continued,-- - -"For a long time, from our fathers, and from their fathers before -them, have we heard tales of strange, white-skinned beings armed -with thunderbolts, who have come from the sea. We have listened with -trembling, but have comforted ourselves that these strangers, whom we -took to be gods, appeared not on our shores, but at places far removed. -Also we heard that they tarried not; but always, after a short stay, -departed as they had come. Take this stick, my brother, and regard it -with respect, for it indicates the belief of our fathers." - -Thus saying, Longfeather handed a second stick from his bundle to the -aged chief. Then resuming his address, he said,-- - -"But all our comfort has vanished with the gaining of wisdom. Nearer -and more frequent have come tales of the whiteskins, until now we -know them to be men like unto ourselves, only of a different color -and having hairy faces. They are armed with thunder-sticks that can -kill at three times the flight of our strongest arrows. Also have we -learned that these men are borne to our coast in mighty canoes built -by themselves and driven by the wind. We know that many of these -canoes come for fish to the salt waters of the Tarratines. Not only do -they thus come and go in ever-increasing numbers, but they even visit -the land to care for the fish they have taken. Accept this stick, my -brother, to remind thee of the white-skinned men who fish." With this -Longfeather handed a third stick to the old man. - -"Still," he continued, "the white fish-catchers do not attempt to -remain with us, nor have they thus far given us cause to fear them. -Some of their lesser canoes, small when compared with those in which -they come and go, but large by the side of ours, even as the eagle is -larger than the hawk, have drifted empty to our shores, and our young -men have made use of them. Also at times the great winged canoes of the -white men have been seen to pass our coast, but never until the season -of last corn-planting have they tarried. Then came one to the country -of the Narragansetts, where it remained for the space of three moons. -This stick, my brother, will refresh thy memory concerning the coming -and tarrying of the great white canoe." With this the speaker passed a -fourth stick to the old chief. Then deliberately and with emphasis he -resumed his speech, saying,-- - -"On an island that they occupied the strangers who came in this canoe -erected a lodge. Many of you have seen it and them. They roamed through -the forest making thunder and killing beasts with their fire-sticks. -Above all, they traded with the Narragansetts, giving them knives and -hatchets made of an unknown metal, strong and sharp, kettles that fire -may not harm, and many other things in exchange for skins of the -beaver. Only with their thunder-sticks they would not part. By many -it was feared that they would remain and attempt to possess the land -that is our land. But after a time they departed, and the heart of -Longfeather was glad when he knew they were gone. At the same moment -his heart was again made heavy, for they gave out that they would come -again, bringing great wealth to exchange for beaver. Take this stick, -my brother, to remind thee that the white men will come again. - -"Now, my friends, what has happened? It is this. The Narragansetts are -puffed up with pride because they are possessed of knives and hatchets -better and more deadly than any ever before seen in all the world. -Also, they desire to obtain more of such things and to learn the secret -of the thunder-sticks that kill as far as one may see. Therefore did -Canonicus, head sachem of the Narragansetts, propose secretly to me -that when the great canoe came again I should order the white men to -be killed, that he and I might possess ourselves of their wealth, and -so become as gods, all-powerful in the land. This stick, my brother, -marks the proposition of Canonicus. - -"To the evil words of the Narragansett I refused to listen, saying to -him that to do what he had in his mind would surely bring upon our -heads the wrath of the Great Spirit. Furthermore, I bade Canonicus -put such evil thoughts far behind him and consider them no more. This -stick, my brother, is Longfeather's answer to Canonicus. - -"Again, my friends, what has happened? The Narragansett promised to -open wide his ears that the words of Longfeather might sink into his -heart. Did he do this? No. He closed tight his ears that they might not -hear, and began to look for others who would aid him in his wickedness. -So far did his eyes travel that they came even to the land of the -Maquas [Mohawks], who from the days of the first men have been our -enemies. To them is he preparing to send messengers with presents and -a promise of great wealth, together with power over all the tribes, -if they will join him in destroying the next white men who may come. -Canonicus was bidden to this council, but I cannot see him. This -stick, my brother, will tell thee of his black heart. I have finished." - -So long did the council discuss this situation and so many were the -speeches to be delivered on the subject, that a decision was not -reached until late on the second day of meeting. Then it was ordered -that Canonicus should be summoned to report in person to the assembled -chiefs, who for two days longer would await his coming. If at the end -of that time he had not appeared, a war-party of the allied tribes -should be sent to fetch him. In the mean time Longfeather would send -a delegation to the Maquas bearing presents, and offering, on behalf -of the combined New England tribes, a treaty that should secure to all -equal benefits from whatever trade might be had with the white-skinned -strangers. It was furthermore agreed that so long as the white men -proved themselves friendly they should be treated as friends. "For," -said the Peacemaker, "they are few and we are many, they are weak while -we are strong, therefore let us live at peace with them, if indeed they -come to us again, a thing that I trust may not happen. So shall we -please the Great Spirit who made them, doubtless for some good reason, -even as he made the red man and gave him control over the earth." - -So it was done even as the council had ordered, and a runner was -despatched to Canonicus with a summons for him to appear at Montaup, -and forbidding him to treat with the Maquas. Also active preparations -were made for sending an embassy to that powerful people on behalf -of the allied New England tribes, and to his joy Nahma was chosen to -accompany it as his father's representative. - - - - -CHAPTER III - -AT THE CROSSING OF THE SHATEMUC - - -The whole land to the very edge of the great salt water, and including -the islands of the sea, was covered with a forest that sheltered it -alike from summer heats and the deadly cold of winter. Stately pines -growing on hill-sides lifted their evergreen heads far above all -other trees, and stood as ever-watchful sentinels. Mighty oaks shaded -wide-spread areas, while graceful elms were mirrored in lake and river. -Everywhere the painted maples flaunted their brilliant colors, while -chestnut, beech, hickory, and walnut showered down bountiful stores -of food to those trusting in them for a winter's supply. Man, beast, -and bird, all children of the forest, dwelt within its safe protection -and were fed from its exhaustless abundance. Its rivers and smaller -streams, filled from brimming reservoirs and unobstructed by dams, -afforded highways of travel ever ready for use and always in the best -of repair. Besides these, the forest was threaded with trails worn -by countless generations of Indian runners, traders, hunters, and -fighters, and these were as familiar to the dwellers in the shade as -are the streets of a city to one born within its walls. - -Along one of these devious trails, narrow and so dim that an -unpractised eye would quickly have lost it, sped a solitary runner. He -was young and goodly to look upon, while his movements were as graceful -as those of the deer, whose soft-tanned skins constituted his attire. -He was bareheaded, and in his hair was fastened a single feather from -the wing of an osprey or fishing eagle. - -A noticeable feature of his costume was a broad belt of wampum, -worn diagonally across his breast so that it might readily be seen -and recognized. On it at short intervals were worked seven figures -representing birds, beasts, and fishes, for it was the Belt of Seven -Totems, indicating the authority of Longfeather the Peacemaker, and the -young runner now wearing it so conspicuously was none other than Nahma, -his only son. - -While Longfeather awaited the return of his messenger to Canonicus and -made ready the presents intended for Sacandaga, chief sachem of the -Maquas, news came that the Narragansett embassy to that same powerful -chieftain had already set forth on its mission. Thus there was no time -to be lost if his own message was to reach Sacandaga first, an event -that he deemed to be of the utmost importance. The chiefs whom he -desired to send as ambassadors could not travel at greater speed than -could the Narragansetts, who had a two days' start, but it was possible -that a fleet-footed runner might even yet overtake and pass them. As -this thought flashed through Longfeather's mind he knew that if the -thing might be done it could only be accomplished by the swiftest of -all his runners, and he promptly caused Nahma to be summoned. - -At that moment the young warrior was listening with eager interest -to the stories of white men and their great winged canoes, told by -Samoset, an Abenaki youth of his own age, who had accompanied his -chieftain to the council at Montaup. - -"What do they call their tribe?" inquired Nahma, "and of what nature is -their speech? Doth it resemble ours so that one may comprehend their -words?" - -"They appear to be of many tribes," replied Samoset, "though we call -them all 'Yengeese.' Also they speak with many tongues, strange and -unpleasant to the ear." - -"What are they like, these tongues? Hast thou not caught some word that -we may hear?" - -"Often they say 'Hillo' and 'Sacré,'" replied Samoset, "but what these -mean I know not. Also, once, where from hiding I watched them cooking -fish on a beach, a pebble rolled from me to them. As they sprang up in -alarm I slipped away, fearing lest they might take offence. As I did so -one of them cried out very loud, 'Mass i-sawit!'" (By the mass I saw -it.) - -"Massasoit," repeated Nahma, thoughtfully. "It hath a familiar sound, -and might be a word of the Wampanoags, except that it is without -meaning. I long greatly to see these white-skinned fish-catchers and -their big canoes that resemble floating hill-tops with trees growing -in them. So if it may be arranged I will return with thee, Samoset, to -look upon these wonders. But you have said naught of the thunder-sticks -about which we hear so much. What of them? Are they indeed as terrible -as represented?" - -Ere Samoset could answer, Nahma received word that Longfeather desired -his presence, and, promising shortly to rejoin his companions, he left -them. Ten minutes later, without their knowledge or that of any person -in all Montaup, save only his parents, the young runner had left his -father's lodge bound on a solitary mission, longer, more important, and -more dangerous than any he had heretofore undertaken. He was to make -his way with all speed and in utmost secrecy to Sacandaga, head sachem -of the Maquas, and urge him, in the name of Longfeather, not to treat -with the Narragansetts or any other single tribe before the arrival of -the Peacemaker's own embassy. - -Longfeather had given his instructions hastily and in a few words. He -had invested the lad with his own superb belt as a badge of authority, -and had dismissed him with the peremptory orders of a sachem, -delivered in the loving tone of a father who sends his only son into -danger. - -Besides the Belt of Seven Totems, Nahma carried only a bow and arrows -slung to his back, a wallet of parched corn bruised in a mortar until -it formed a coarse meal, a small fire-bag of flints and tinder, and a -copper knife, the precious gift of his father. Having taken but five -minutes for preparation, he tenderly embraced his mother and bade her -farewell. Filled with a presentiment of coming evil, Miantomet clung -to him as though she could not let him go; but, comforting her with -loving words, the lad gently disengaged her arms from about his neck -and sprang away. In another minute he had plunged into the forest and -was lost to sight amid its blackness. - -For some hours the way was partially revealed by the light of a young -moon, and by the time of its setting Nahma had placed a score of miles -between him and Montaup. Then, as he could no longer make speed through -the darkness, he flung himself down at the foot of a great oak and was -almost instantly fast asleep. - -By earliest dawn he was again on the trail, and all that day he sped -forward with hardly a pause. Occasionally he passed a group of bark -huts nestled beside some smooth-flowing stream and surrounded by rudely -tilled fields; but at none of these did he halt, save only now and -then for a few mouthfuls of food. The belt that he wore insured him -everywhere a glad welcome and instant service. He forded or swam the -smaller streams; while at points where his trail crossed rivers he -always found canoes that he did not hesitate to appropriate to his own -use if their owners were not at hand. He was on the king's business and -nothing might delay it. - -Thus Nahma sped so swiftly on his errand that an hour before sunset -of the second day found him, very weary but exultant, on the eastern -bank of the Shatemuc and at the border of the country claimed by -the Iroquois, of whom the Maquas were the easternmost tribe. He was -farther from home than he had ever been before and in a region of -which he had no knowledge. At the same time he knew that the Maquas, -being now at peace with the New England tribes, were accustomed to -send hunting-parties east of their great river, and so he had hoped -to find one or more canoes at the crossing. In this, however, he was -disappointed, for, search as he might, he could discover none of the -desired craft, though he found a place where several had but recently -been concealed. - -As there were no other traces of human presence in that vicinity, -Nahma concluded that the canoes had been taken by persons coming from -across the river. He did not suspect that it might have been done by -the Narragansetts whom he was striving to outstrip; for thus far he had -discovered no sign of them, and had reached a conclusion that they must -have taken some other trail. At any rate, there was no canoe to be had, -and, as he was determined to cross the river before dark, he must swim -it. This he did, keeping dry his scanty clothing and few belongings -by floating them on a small raft of bark that he pushed before -him. Arrived on the farther side our young runner made a startling -discovery. Not only were a number of canoes drawn out on the bank and -concealed beneath overhanging bushes, but on the soft ground beside -them he found the unmistakable imprint of Narragansett moccasins. -Also, a short distance back from the river, he came upon the still -smouldering remains of a small fire. At length, then, he was close upon -the heels of his rivals, and he must at all hazards pass them that -night in order to gain a first hearing from Sacandaga. At the same time -he was in immediate need of food and rest, for he was faint with hunger -and exhausted by his recent exertions. There was no sign of danger, his -rivals had gone on, and the fire they had so kindly provided invited -him to cook food that was to be had for the taking. - -So abounding with fish were all the streams of that land that no one -possessed of even ordinary skill at catching them need go hungry. Nahma -was well aware of this, and, taking a pinch of his parched corn, he -stepped back to the river's bank and cast it upon the water. In another -moment he had transfixed with an unerring arrow one of the half-dozen -large fish that rushed greedily to the surface, and his supper was -provided. Having cooked it and satisfied his ravenous hunger, the lad -withdrew to a thicket well beyond the circle of firelight and flung -himself down for an hour of sleep before continuing his journey. - -The young runner was lost to consciousness within a minute after -closing his eyes; but not until his heavy breathing gave notice of -the fact did a painted savage, who for more than an hour had watched -his every movement, drop to the ground from among the branches of a -thick-leaved oak. There he had crouched as motionless as a panther -awaiting its prey; and now, after stretching his cramped limbs, he -stole with catlike tread towards the sleeping youth. - - - - -CHAPTER IV - -THE BELT CHANGES HANDS - - -In all the history of the world it has happened that dwellers by the -sea have been more advanced and prosperous than their inland neighbors. -Thus, in the present instance, the Wampanoags and the Narragansetts -were the most numerous and powerful of the New England tribes. There -had always been jealousies and often open warfare between them, nor had -these wholly ceased to exist upon the election of Longfeather to the -high office of Peacemaker. Canonicus, head sachem of the Narragansetts, -felt that he was equally entitled to be thus honored, and consequently -was bitterly jealous of his successful rival. This feeling was shared -by his nephew and adopted son, Miantinomo, only that the envy and -hatred of the latter were directed against Nahma, whose place as future -ruler of the allied tribes he was determined to occupy, if by any -means such a thing might be accomplished. - -Thus, when Canonicus planned to secure a power greater than that of -Longfeather by forming an alliance with the eastern Iroquois, he found -in Miantinomo an eager assistant. So, even as the Peacemaker had chosen -his own son to represent him in the mission to Sacandaga, Canonicus -selected Miantinomo for a similar position in the Narragansett embassy. -In this way, without either being aware of the fact, the two young -rivals became actively pitted against each other in the most important -undertaking of their lives. - -While urged to make all possible haste, the Narragansett party was -obliged to adapt its pace to that of the oldest chief among them; and -while they expected that Longfeather would also send messengers to the -Maquas, they fancied these would be equally restricted as to speed. -They knew that they had a start of at least two days, and believed they -could reach Sacandaga's village, transact their business, and depart -for home before the coming of their rivals. At the same time they -neglected no precaution to insure the success of their undertaking. -They struck the Shatemuc at a point much lower than that reached by -Nahma, and from it ascended the river in canoes. As they advanced they -kept sharp watch of the eastern shore, and removed all craft found on -it to the opposite side of the river. Their last exploit of this kind -was at a place where they must again take to the land and follow a -trail to the Maqua villages. - -Having thus provided for a further delay of the other party, they felt -no apprehension of being overtaken, and proceeded leisurely on their -journey. They did, however, take the added precaution of leaving a -scout behind them to watch the crossing until sunset. For this purpose -they selected Miantinomo, as being the keenest-eyed and swiftest-footed -of their party. So Nahma's most active rival and secret enemy was left -to cover the rear, while his elders disappeared in single file up the -narrow trail. - -According to Indian custom Miantinomo had brought pigments with him, -and now he relieved the tedium of his watch, which he did not believe -would amount to anything, by painting his body in anticipation of a -speedy arrival at the Maqua villages. So interested was he in this -occupation that for a time he forgot everything else; then, startled -by a splash in the river, he glanced up. A swimmer, just emerged from -deep water, was wading ashore pushing before him a small raft, and -Miantinomo instantly recognized him. Being hidden behind a screen of -bushes, and satisfied that Nahma was still ignorant of his presence, -the young Narragansett, crouching low, made his way to a thick-leaved -oak that overhung the trail a short distance back from the river, and -was snugly hidden among its branches by the time Nahma gained the land. - -Miantinomo was not wholly surprised to discover the son of Longfeather -at this place; but he could not understand why he should be alone. -It must be that he had come to obtain canoes in which to bring over -the others of his party. Thus thinking, he expected to see Nahma at -once recross the river. In that case he would hasten after his own -companions and urge them to travel all night, that they might still -reach the Maqua villages in advance of their rivals. - -But the new-comer failed to do as expected, and Miantinomo was more -puzzled than ever at witnessing his preparations to secure a meal and -spend some time where he was. He evidently was alone, and after the -spy became convinced of this, he wondered if by some means he might -not prevent Longfeather's messenger from continuing his journey. He -was also filled with a great longing to possess himself of the Belt of -Seven Totems, which he recognized as Nahma again assumed it. Well did -the young Narragansett realize the power conferred upon the wearer of -that belt. If it should be opposed to him in the presence of Sacandaga, -then would his mission prove a failure and his uncle's cherished plan -would come to naught. On the other hand, if the all-powerful belt could -be made to appear in his behalf, if he only might possess it even for a -short time, how easy would become his task! - -From the moment these thoughts entered his mind Miantinomo was -determined to acquire the coveted object by any means that should -offer. He knew that Nahma would never relinquish the belt of his own -free will, and that it must be taken from him by either stealth or -force. He knew also that should he succeed in his wicked design he -would incur the vengeance of Longfeather, and doubtless bring on a -war in which all the New England tribes would be involved. But what -of that? Would not the powerful Iroquois fight on the side of the -Narragansetts; and, armed with the white man's weapons, might they not -successfully defy the world? - -Filled with these ambitious thoughts, Miantinomo flattened himself -closer against the great oak limb and, regardless of the discomfort -of his position, watched with glittering eyes every movement of his -rival. More than anything else he resembled a venomous serpent awaiting -an opportunity to spring upon an unsuspecting victim. At his back was -a bow and a quiver of flint-headed arrows, with one of which he might -easily have stricken Nahma to the earth at any moment, but he was not -yet prepared to shed innocent blood for the accomplishment of his -purpose. Besides, he dared not make a movement that might attract the -other's attention. So he waited with all the patience of his race and -an ever-strengthening resolve to obtain possession of the Peacemaker's -belt. - -In the mean time Nahma, utterly unconscious of the dangerous presence -so close at hand, procured, cooked, and ate his supper, selected what -he believed to be a safe resting-place, and laid himself down for a -nap. The moment for which Miantinomo had waited was at hand, and with -noiseless movement he slipped to the ground. For a few seconds he stood -motionless behind the tree, to assure himself that his rival had not -been aroused; then with catlike tread he stole towards the unsuspecting -sleeper. - -At length he stood beside Nahma and bent over him with the coveted -belt easily within his reach. Bits of moonlight sifting through leafy -branches fell upon it and upon the upturned face of the sleeper. So -profound was his slumber that Miantinomo believed he might remove the -belt without disturbing him, and laying his stone-headed war-club -within easy reach, he began with the utmost caution to make the -attempt. It had very nearly succeeded, and the belt, partially -loosened, was within his grasp, when, without warning, Nahma opened his -eyes. Miantinomo leaped back at the first sign of waking, and as his -victim attempted to gain his feet a crushing blow stretched him again -on the ground motionless and to all appearance dead. - -For a moment the young Narragansett stood ready to repeat his cowardly -assault; but, seeing that a second blow was unnecessary, he again bent -over the body of his rival and snatched from it the belt for which he -had been willing to risk so much. With his prize thus secured, he was -about to hasten from the spot when another thought caused him to pause. -It would never do to leave the evidence of his crime where it was so -certain to be discovered. He had not meant to kill Nahma, and now that -the awful deed was committed, he trembled at thought of its possible -consequences. Even his own people would regard him with abhorrence if -they knew of it, while the vengeance of Longfeather would be swift -and terrible. Therefore what he had done must never be known even by -his nearest friends, and before leaving that spot he must remove all -traces of his murderous deed. Stripping off his scanty raiment that it -might not become bloodstained, he lifted the limp form of the stricken -youth, and carrying it some distance down the stream, flung it into -the river. He heard the heavy splash of the body as it struck the -water, but was too nervous to make further inquiry as to its condition. -Thus whether it sank or floated he did not know, nor did he seek to -discover, but fled from the spot as though pursued. - -Reaching the place where he had left his garments and the belt, he -hastily resumed the former, and concealed the latter beneath them. Then -he set forth at top speed to rejoin his companions and report that he -had seen nothing alarming during his watch by the river-side. - -On the following day the Narragansett embassy reached the Maqua -villages, where, in spite of their alluring proposition and valuable -presents, they were at first received with coldness and suspicion. -At the council assembled to hear their talk Sacandaga flatly refused -to make an alliance with any one of the New England tribes, and the -Narragansetts retired from it believing that the cherished plan of -Canonicus must come to naught. - -That night, however, Miantinomo sought a private interview with the -Maqua sachem, and displayed to him the Belt of Seven Totems, which -Sacandaga at once recognized, since its fame had spread far and wide. -"It is the belt of Longfeather," he said, after a close inspection. - -"Yes," replied Miantinomo, "it is the belt of the great Peacemaker, who -is also my father." - -"How can that be?" asked the other. "May a man have two fathers?" - -"By adoption, yes," answered the young Narragansett. "Having no son of -his own, Longfeather has adopted the nephew of his friend Canonicus, -that in time their tribes may be united under one chief. To the -Narragansetts I am known as Miantinomo, but by all others am I called -Nahma, son of Longfeather." - -"I have heard the name and it is described as being that of a most -promising warrior," said Sacandaga, regarding the young man with -renewed interest. - -"One blessed with two such fathers should indeed prove himself -worthy," was the modest reply. "In proof that I am regarded as a son by -Longfeather," he continued, "the Peacemaker has intrusted me with this -token of authority. Never before has he parted with it, and to none, -save only the mighty chief of the Maquas, whose friendship he greatly -desires, would he send it. Also he has done this thing in secret, so -that even those who come with me know not that I am intrusted with so -great authority." - -So impressed was Sacandaga by this flattering statement and by sight -of the belt offered in evidence of its sincerity, that he not only -listened attentively to the young man's proposals, but finally agreed -to accept them. - -"With Canonicus alone I could not have treated," he said, "for he is -but one of many; but with Longfeather, who represents the many, I may -enter into a compact." - -"The words of Sacandaga are good," replied Miantinomo, gravely, "and -will be as the singing of birds in the ears of Longfeather. At the -same time I trust it will not be forgotten that they may not be sent -directly to him. For the present he would not have it known that he -desires the wealth of the white-skinned strangers. If they think him a -friend they will the more readily fall into the snare he will set for -them. Therefore, my father, let the public treaty be made only between -Sacandaga and Canonicus, for Longfeather will be well pleased to have -it so proclaimed." - -"I understand and will not forget," replied the Maqua chief. - -Thus through treachery and deceit did the wily young Narragansett gain -his point and accomplish the mission with which he had been intrusted -by Canonicus. - - - - -CHAPTER V - -WHAT THE DAUGHTERS OF KAWERAS FOUND - - -Sacandaga secretly gave to Miantinomo a belt of wampum bearing the -emblem of a tortoise, his own totem, to be transmitted to Longfeather, -while publicly he gave another to the Narragansett chiefs for -Canonicus. After the formalities of the treaty as well as the private -negotiations were concluded, Miantinomo urged the immediate departure -of his companions lest they might discover his evil doings. Then, -having got them well started on their homeward journey, he hastened -on in advance. For this he gave an excuse that the whites who were to -be plundered might appear at any time, and that every hour was now -of importance. His real reason was the belief that Longfeather must -also have sent a delegation of chiefs to confer with the Maquas, and a -determination to meet them and, if possible, turn them back. So, while -his companions took a trail different from the one by which they had -come, Miantinomo hastened back to the place where he had encountered -Nahma, and found those who had followed the son of Longfeather camped -on the opposite bank of the river awaiting the coming of canoes in -which to cross over. - -For some time after his appearance among them they asked no questions, -but waited in dignified silence to learn of his errand to them. -Finally, the young man said,-- - -"My fathers, you are following Nahma, the son of Longfeather, on a -mission to Sacandaga, the Iroquois. Is it not so?" - -"It is as my young brother has said," replied one of the chiefs. - -"Then you may be spared a farther journey," continued Miantinomo, -"for Nahma, by virtue of the belt he wore, the great Belt of Seven -Totems, readily gained the ear of Sacandaga, even while I and those -with me were vainly striving to do so. Thus did he make a treaty with -the Iroquois on behalf of Longfeather, his father, and for fear that -you might claim a share in the honor he has returned to Montaup by -another trail. Even now he travels with those of my people who kept -me company. I have come by this trail that I may visit the village -of Peace before returning to my father. For this I was heavy-hearted; -but now am I glad, because I have met with you, and may so save you a -useless journey." - -For some time the chiefs discussed this report of Miantinomo; and then, -because they did not wholly trust him, they decided to retain him as -a hostage while one of their number visited the Maqua villages for -confirmation of his words. - -During the absence of this messenger Miantinomo was filled with -apprehension, though he carefully hid his feelings and affected the -utmost unconcern. He even went so far as to advise Longfeather's -commissioners to appropriate to their own use the presents they were -bearing to Sacandaga, and seek their respective homes without reporting -to the Peacemaker. - -"The treaty has been made," he said. "The sachem of the Maquas is -satisfied and expects nothing further. You have been put to much -trouble and will have no share in the honor. Longfeather has no thought -that the presents will be returned to him. Therefore is it best that -you who have earned them should keep them." - -To such arguments the chiefs listened not unwillingly; and when their -messenger returned with a report that Miantinomo had spoken truly -concerning what had taken place in the Maqua village, they decided to -accept his advice. - -"Why should Longfeather have intrusted the Belt of Seven Totems to one -so young and inexperienced as Nahma instead of to us?" they asked. -"Also why did he not tell us that he had done so? Truly he has shamed -us, and if we take his presents to wipe out our shame, then shall we do -that which is right and good." - -Having reached this conclusion, each took a share and went his way; -while Miantinomo, rejoicing at the complete success of his evil designs -and still wearing next his skin the Belt of Seven Totems that was -the badge of highest authority in all that land, returned to his own -people. There he busied himself with the secret spreading of various -reports concerning the young rival with whom he had dealt so foully. -One was that Nahma had taken a Maqua girl to wife and would thereafter -dwell among the Iroquois. Another was to the effect that he had been -murdered by his companions of Longfeather's embassy for the sake of the -belt that he wore, as well as for the presents intrusted to them, which -they had taken for their own benefit. - -From Sacandaga himself Longfeather learned that a young man named -Nahma and wearing the Belt of Seven Totems had indeed visited the -Maqua villages, from which he had departed again in company with the -Narragansett chiefs. Although the latter denied this and declared that -they had not seen Nahma, Miantinomo maintained that he had met him in -Sacandaga's village and spoken with him. - -By these and other conflicting stories was the fate of Nahma so -shrouded in mystery that it became impossible to discover what had -really befallen him, and finally his friends mourned for him as for one -who is dead. Even while they thus mourned it became rumored that either -Canonicus or Miantinomo, his adopted son, would succeed Longfeather -in the high office of Peacemaker and ruler of the allied New England -tribes. - -In the mean time, while all these events were happening, Nahma knew -nothing of them nor indeed of anything else, for he lay tossing with -fever in the lodge of Kaweras, principal arrow-maker of the Maquas. -When, apparently dead, he had been flung into the river to disappear -forever from human eyes, he had fallen among a bed of reeds in a -place where the water was too shallow to drown him. There he lay -motionless through the long night hours, half in the water and half -out of it, while the tall reeds whispered and rustled above his head. -Soft-flitting night-birds gazed at him with wondering eyes, while timid -animals coming to the river to drink sniffed the air tainted by his -presence and fled in terror. - -Towards morning a glimmer of returning life entered the numbed brain, -and in striving to obey its commands the poor bruised body began to -make feeble movements. By sunrise Nahma was sitting up and gazing -stupidly at the green wall by which he was surrounded. Also he muttered -over and over, with tedious repetition, three meaningless words: -"Hillo, Sacré," and "Massasoit." Other than this he gave no sign of -restored consciousness. He did not take heed even when a sound of merry -voices came to the place where he sat, nor was his attention attracted -by a loud swish and rustle of the reeds that came ever nearer until it -was close at hand. Then there was a momentary silence, broken only by -the monotonous repetition of "Hillo, Sacré, Massasoit." - -A stifled exclamation and excited whispers announced that these words -had at length reached human ears, but there was an evident hesitation -while fear struggled with curiosity. After a minute the reeds in front -of Nahma were noiselessly parted, and the bow of a canoe stole into -sight inch by inch with almost imperceptible motion. From it peered -the face of a young girl, bright and fascinating, but big-eyed with -apprehension as that of a startled fawn. As she caught a glimpse of the -wounded youth the progress of the canoe was instantly arrested, while -the girl became rigidly motionless. Her eyes, however, took in every -detail of his appearance and of his melancholy situation. He still -appeared to see nothing and still repeated the words that had attracted -attention, "Hillo, Sacré, Massasoit." - -[Illustration: AS SHE CAUGHT A GLIMPSE OF THE WOUNDED YOUTH THE -PROGRESS OF THE CANOE WAS INSTANTLY ARRESTED] - -"What is it, sister? What do you see?" came in a frightened whisper -from an unseen speaker who occupied the farther end of the canoe; but -the other, still gazing motionless, made no reply. "Aeana," insisted -the invisible one in a louder tone, "tell me quickly what you see. I am -frightened." - -"I see nothing to be afraid of, Otshata," replied the girl in the bow -of the canoe. "It is a young man, but he is evidently sorely wounded -and regards not our presence. There, you may see for yourself." With -this the girl called Aeana pulled the canoe into such a position that -the other could catch a glimpse of Nahma. - -"It is certain that he is handsome," whispered Otshata; "but is not his -condition dreadful? Let us hasten and report it to our father." - -"No," answered Aeana, decisively. "That is," she added, "we will return -to our father, and that quickly, but we must either take this young man -with us or leave him to perish. See you not that the river is flowing -backward and that its waters are rising? If we leave him he must die, -since he is in no condition to care for himself. How we may get him -into the canoe I know not, but if that can be done we will carry him to -Kaweras, our father." - -The elder though more timid sister attempted a further expostulation, -but without heeding her Aeana brought the canoe close to where -the wounded youth still sat, indifferent alike to his fate and -his surroundings, idly repeating the strange words that had fixed -themselves in his bewildered brain. Aeana spoke to him, but he failed -to comprehend what she said. She laid a gentle hand on his arm and -endeavored to persuade him into the canoe, but he sat passively -motionless. - -Finally in despair the girl uttered one of the strange words that he -so constantly repeated. "Massasoit," she said, and the youth looked -at her, seeming for the first time to recognize her presence. A faint -smile flickered across his blood-smeared features, and he made a -movement towards her. In another moment, aided by her supple strength, -he had gained the interior of the canoe, and lay weakly with closed -eyes while the two girls pulled it out from among the reeds. Then -seizing their paddles, they urged the light craft swiftly down the -river towards their father's lodge. - -Thus did the daughters of Kaweras, who had been sent to fetch a bundle -of stout reeds that might serve as shafts for bird arrows, return -without them, but bringing a wounded and unconscious youth in their -place. - -Although the old arrow-maker saw at a glance that the young warrior -was not of the Maqua, nor even of the Iroquois people, his ideas of -hospitality did not permit him to ask questions nor hesitate a moment -before attending to the stranger's needs. It required the united -strength of father and daughters to transfer Nahma from canoe to lodge, -and when he was finally laid in the latter on a hastily improvised -couch of boughs and skins, he was once more to all appearance dead. - - - - -CHAPTER VI - -IN THE LODGE OF THE ARROW-MAKER - - -The lodge of Kaweras, occupied only by him and his two daughters, stood -by itself in a grassy glade shaded by elms on the western bank of the -lordly Shatemuc. Close at hand flowed a spring of crystal water, while -at no great distances were abundant materials for the prosecution -of the old arrow-maker's trade. Nearby hills furnished him with -flints and slate, agate and milk-white quartz; stout reeds and tough, -straight-grained woods were to be had for the taking. Deer of the -forest yielded him their strong back-sinews for binding arrow-head to -shaft, and myriads of sea-fowl flying up or down the broad river gave -him of their feathers. In his younger days Kaweras had been a noted -warrior. Now he was the most expert arrow-maker of the region in which -he dwelt. He was also a mystic, a prophet, and one well versed in the -science of healing by means of herbs, roots, bark, and leaves. - -In his double capacity of arrow-maker and medicine-man Kaweras was much -sought after, and though his lodge stood remote from any village of his -people, it was rarely without visitors. Young warriors came for arrows -and to catch glimpses of his pretty daughters; their elders came to -consult with him concerning grave affairs; while many of all ages and -both sexes came for healing or to profit by his advice. As all brought -gifts, Kaweras was well-to-do, and his larder was always stocked with -choicest products of forest and field without effort on his own part or -that of his daughters. - -These last kept tidy the spacious lodge with its three divisions, of -which only the outer one was for the general public, prepared the -family meals, and did much sewing with needles of fishbone threaded -with fibre or sinew. At the same time they found abundant leisure for -paddling on the river in their canoe of white birch brought from the -far north and for attending to the needs of their pets, two tame fawns -and a large flock of wild ducks bred in captivity. Also they helped -their father in the making of arrows, and especially in the gathering -of material. - -With this busy but uneventful life the elder sister was quite content, -but Aeana always longed for excitement and adventure. Now she had -found both in the coming to their quiet lodge of a stranger, young, -mysterious, wounded to the point of death, and speaking a language to -which even the wisdom of her father could find no clue. Furthermore, -she regarded him with a proprietary interest, for had she not -discovered him and rescued him from almost certain destruction? - -During the long illness that followed his coming, and while he lay -oblivious to his surroundings, she often gazed curiously upon his face, -listened to the three strange words that he repeated to the exclusion -of all others, and speculated concerning him. She became impatient for -him to get well that he might tell her who he was, where he came from, -and how he happened to be in the sad plight that had so nearly proved -fatal. She would have talked of him to their many visitors but for her -father's expressed wish that Nahma's presence in their lodge should -be kept a secret from all men. Kaweras hoped thus to learn something -concerning him from unguarded conversations, but in this he was -disappointed. It is true that he heard of the mysterious disappearance -of Nahma, the son of Longfeather, but whenever that youth was mentioned -Miantinomo was described, and as this description did not coincide in -any particular with the appearance of his patient, he had no reason to -connect the two. - -Otshata was quite as much interested in the young stranger as was -her sister, but in another way. She thought him very handsome, which -Aeana would not admit, and secretly rejoiced in the helplessness that -depended so largely upon her gentle ministrations. She had the motherly -instinct that found pleasure in self-sacrifice, and from the first -constituted herself chief nurse of the stricken youth. - -For a long time it was doubtful if Nahma would ever recover from the -illness by which he was prostrated; but after it finally took a turn -for the better he began rapidly to mend. On the day that he first -ventured outside the lodge into the freedom of open air there was -much rejoicing in the little family, but it was tinged with sadness. -Although weak and emaciated from his long sickness, he was still a -goodly youth to look upon, and gave promise of speedily regaining his -physical powers; but his mind was that of a child. He could neither -tell nor remember anything of his former life, even its language was -lost to him, and he could converse only in such words of the Iroquois -tongue as he had acquired from his present associates. As he could not -tell them his name, they called him "Massasoit," from the word he had -most frequently uttered during his delirium, and this he accepted as -readily as he did all else that they offered him. - -While thus compelled to relearn everything that required mental effort, -it was soon discovered that he had lost none of his cunning in matters -calling for physical strength or skill. He could still shoot an arrow -or hurl a spear with unerring aim, was rarely at fault on the dimmest -trail, and proved himself an adept in such branches of Indian handiwork -as usually fell to the share of warriors, such as the fashioning of -weapons or the building of canoes. He soon regained a muscular strength -even greater than that with which he had been endowed before his -illness, while his fleetness of foot excited the wonder of his friends. - -With all this Nahma was gentle and submissive to authority, a trait -that aroused the utmost scorn in the mind of Aeana. From the time his -mental weakness was discovered this high-spirited girl treated him as -she would a child, bidding him come or go, fetch or carry, according -as she felt inclined, and apparently she despised him for his ready -obedience to her orders. He, on the other hand, regarded her with an -intense admiration and sought in every way to win her favor. All his -trophies of the chase were laid at her feet only to be contemptuously -rejected or flung to Otshata. In the latter, however, the young man -found a friend to whom his misfortune appealed so keenly that she -treated him with unwearied kindness and tenderest consideration. He -called her "sister," a term that he dared not apply to Aeana, and -poured all his troubles into her sympathetic ear. - -One day Nahma returned hot and weary from a chase that had lasted many -hours and presented a noble stag to Aeana. Without taking notice of the -gift, and careless of his evident weariness, she bade him fetch her -water from the spring. As he willingly departed on this mission she -regarded him with curling lip, and when he returned bearing a large -earthen jar of water that he set before her, she promptly overturned -it so that its contents were spilled. At the same time she uttered the -single word "squaw" with an accent of utter contempt and entered the -lodge, leaving him bewildered and mortified. - -Walking slowly towards the river, he discovered Otshata seated in a -shaded nook on its bank embroidering a moccasin with painted quills. - -"My sister, why does Aeana hate me?" he asked, as he flung himself -despondently on the turf beside her. - -"She hates thee not, my brother," replied the other, interrupting her -work to look at him. - -"Truly she does. In every word and by every act she shows her dislike," -declared Nahma, bitterly. "She would be glad never to see me more, -and I will go away rather than remain longer to displease her by my -presence." - -"Speak not of such a thing!" exclaimed Otshata. "Whither would you go, -and what should we do without our hunter? If Aeana seems to treat thee -unkindly, it is only to inspire thee with a braver spirit. She likes -it not that one come to the estate of a warrior should tamely serve -her. She would have thee do brave deeds, and also she would have thee -remember thy past. Canst thou not do this, and by hard thinking recall -some one thing? Who was thy father? Who struck the cruel blow that so -nearly ended thy life? Who are thy people? Are they the Saganaga of the -south, the Oneidas of the west, or wast thou born among the fish-eaters -who dwell in the country of sunrising? I will not ask if thou hast -Huron blood in thy veins; for in spite of thy moccasins I feel assured -that thou art not of that wicked people." - -By this reference Otshata recalled the fact that, when found wounded -in the river sedge, Nahma had on his feet a pair of Huron-made -moccasins procured in the village of Peace to replace others worn out -by his journey; but of these he could give no account. - -"I strive to remember," declared the youth, vehemently. "Night and day, -sleeping and waking, I think till my head seems like to burst, but -'tis of no use. The only life that I know is here, and if I have had -another, it is gone from me like a dream of the black hours. So it is -well that I should go away, and if these Hurons be thy enemies and the -enemies of Aeana, then will I go and fight against them that she may no -longer despise and hate me." - -"No, no!" cried Otshata. "Think not of the war-path, my brother. The -Hurons are very fierce and terrible and cruel. Also they are so filled -with evil designs that only the wisest and most experienced warriors -may hope for success against them. Thee they would easily kill; or, -what is worse, they would take advantage of thy simplicity to adopt -thee and make thee sharer of their wickedness." - -At this point the conversation was interrupted by a summons from -Kaweras bidding Massasoit come to him quickly. - -While it had been comparatively easy to keep secret the presence of -a stranger in the lodge of Kaweras during his illness, it became -impossible to do so after he was out and about. So a knowledge of -the mysterious youth who could remember nothing of his past speedily -became noised abroad, and many persons, attracted by curiosity, came -to see him. The victim of these interviews dreaded them so intensely -that he spent much time in remote forest depths to avoid them. Now, -however, he was fairly caught, and going reluctantly to the lodge, -followed at a distance by Otshata, he found himself in the presence -of a distinguished-looking chieftain who was seated on a robe beside -Kaweras. Behind them stood a group of warriors. As Nahma drew near the -eyes of all these were fixed intently upon him, though no word was -spoken until he paused within a few paces of his host. - - - - -CHAPTER VII - -NAHMA JOINS A WAR-PARTY - - -"Massasoit," said Kaweras, as the young man regarded him inquiringly, -"I would have plumes from Ke-neu, the great eagle, to make a -war-bonnet. He waits yonder for an invitation to come to us. Can you -persuade him?" - -With this the speaker pointed upward to where a golden eagle, attracted -by a bait of raw flesh placed temptingly at some distance from the -lodge, circled on motionless pinions. - -Glancing in the direction indicated, Nahma stepped within the lodge, -from which he quickly reappeared bearing a bow and three arrows. -Again taking his station in front of Kaweras, he stood for a moment -motionless, watching intently the movements of the eagle, that still -circled slowly downward. One arrow was fitted to the bowstring, while -the other two were stuck in the ground before him. Suddenly the youth -lifted his weapon and let fly its feathered dart. Then he shot twice -more with such marvellous rapidity of motion that the third arrow was -leaving the bow ere the first had reached its mark. As the spectators -uttered an involuntary exclamation of amazement, the great bird, -evidently stricken to its death, plunged dizzily downward with feebly -beating wings. - -"Bring it," said the sachem, addressing those who stood behind him, and -each taking the command to himself, all sprang away in a breathless -race for the trophy. - -"Do thou bring it," said Kaweras to Nahma. - -Instantly the young bowman darted forward with such amazing swiftness -that, despite the distance already gained by the others, he overtook -and passed them ere they could reach the coveted goal. As he picked up -the dead bird and bore it back the others made way for him, nor did one -offer to take from him the prize that he had thus twice won. As he laid -it at the feet of Kaweras the bird was seen to be transfixed by three -arrows. - -"The young man should be named Sharp-eye, Quick-hand, and Swift-foot," -exclaimed the visiting sachem, who was none other than Sacandaga, "for -he has proved himself to excel the best of my warriors in all these -things. Not until this day have I believed the tales told me touching -his skill; but now I know them to have been less than the truth. If he -be as fearless as he is quick he should take high rank as a warrior. -How say you, Massasoit? Will you go with me and my young men to do -battle with the Hurons, who are reported to have taken the war-path -against us?" - -For a moment the youth hesitated. He glanced at the old arrow-maker, -whose features were unmoved and who made no sign. Then he looked -towards Otshata, whose face showed her distress and who made an -imploring gesture for him to decline the offer. Finally he turned to -Aeana, who stood motionless and with averted gaze, but her attitude and -expression were unmistakable. They said as plainly as words, "He is a -squaw and dares not face the war-path." - -In an instant Nahma's resolution was taken, and he answered Sacandaga, -saying,-- - -"I am without experience of the war-path, nor have I knowledge of any -people save only of these, my father and my sisters. If, however, -these Hurons be the enemies of Kaweras and of his daughters, then will -I gladly go with thee to fight against them." - -"It is well," replied Sacandaga, greatly pleased to have gained so -promising a recruit. "Spend thou the night with my young men, who will -instruct thee concerning many things, and in the morning will we set -forth." - -Some hours later, when the camp-fires had burned low and the recumbent -forms gathered about them were buried in slumber, two men issued -silently from the lodge of Kaweras and made their way to a secluded -spot on the river-bank, where they believed they might discuss weighty -matters without danger of being overheard. They were Sacandaga and the -old arrow-maker, and when they had gained the place they sought the -latter broke the silence by saying,-- - -"It is now many days since I became aware that Sacandaga proposed to -honor my poor lodge by a visit. Also am I informed of his object in -coming, though he has told it to no man." - -"How may such a thing be?" asked the other. - -"To all men come dreams, but to a few only is given the power of -understanding them," replied Kaweras. "The many dream dreams and forget -them on waking. Some indeed recall them and make vain efforts to -comprehend their meaning; but to Kaweras a dream speaks a language as -easy of understanding as the signs of the forest or the voices of birds -that dwell among its branches." - -"So I have heard, and for that reason have I come to thee," said -Sacandaga. "Tell me, then, what is my desire and if it may be -accomplished." - -"The Hurons are reported to be gathering on the war-path leading to -the country of the Iroquois, and thy desire is to proceed with such -promptness against them that they may be surprised and destroyed while -still in their own territory. Then would you descend on their villages -and wipe them out, that the power of our enemies may be broken forever." - -"That is indeed a hope that I have cherished, but always in secret, -and for my brother to know of it is proof that I have not done wrong -in coming to him for advice," said Sacandaga. "How, then, Kaweras, -will this plan of mine succeed, and shall we thus rid ourselves of the -wolves whose howling has so long troubled our ears?" - -The prophet hesitated before making reply. Then he said slowly, -"Sometimes the dream-pictures are so plenty and come so quickly that it -is hard to make out one from another, as it is hard to understand the -words of one man when many are talking. I see a fight. In it are Maquas -and Hurons. The Maquas chase their enemies and kill them. It is morning -and the sun is shining. Also with this picture I see another battle in -which the Hurons are overcoming the Maquas and taking many prisoners. -In this one is thunder and lightning, by which many are killed. Which -is the true picture I know not, nor how to advise my brother concerning -them." - -"Then will I interpret and tell thee their meaning," exclaimed -Sacandaga. "Both are true, and their meaning is this. I and my young -men are to go on the war-path against the Huron dogs and will surely -encounter them. If we do so on a fair morning when there is no sign of -storm in the air, then shall we overcome them and wipe them from the -face of the earth. If we should meet them in the morning and delay an -attack until later in the day, then would the Great Spirit grow angry -and send his lightnings to destroy us. It is well, my brother. I will -remember to seek the enemy on a fair morning and avoid him on a day of -storm. Now I would ask thee one more question. What do thy dreams tell -of the young man who is called Massasoit?" - -"This only," answered Kaweras, "that he is the son of a chieftain, and -will himself become a leader of men, wiser even and more powerful than -his father." - -"But who is his father?" - -"I know not, though of late I have come to a suspicion that this young -man may be Nahma, the missing son of Longfeather." - -"That cannot be, for I have had dealings with the son of Longfeather -and know that he and this youth are not one person." - -"Did not that one also claim to be a son of Canonicus?" - -"He did so claim." - -"Then he may have spoken falsely; for Uncas, the Mohican, hath lately -sent me word that Nahma and Miantinomo are two separate persons, -holding no love for each other and having nothing in common." - -"If the words of Uncas should prove true and it shall appear that I -have been led falsely into a treaty with Canonicus, then shall the -wrath of Sacandaga fall upon the Narragansetts even as one destroys a -serpent that has stung him. I will look closely into the matter when I -have returned from dealing with the Hurons. Until then it is well that -I keep this young man where I may watch over him." - -In the mean time the youth under discussion had just passed the -pleasantest evening his short memory could recall. He was like a boy -brought up in a nursery with only girls for companions, at length set -free and for the first time admitted to the company of men. He had no -recollection of companions of his own age and sex, so that the young -warriors who now welcomed him to their ranks were revelations as -surprising as they were interesting. - -How much they knew, and what wonderful things they told him! At the -same time how delightful was it to listen to their praise of his -own accomplishments! Until now he had not known that he possessed -accomplishments, but supposed that every one could shoot and run -equally well with himself. He could not remember having learned to -do these things, nor had he found occasion since entering the lodge -of Kaweras to test his skill in them against that of others. Now, -therefore, he was surprised as well as pleased to find himself in the -position of a hero on account of abilities that he had heretofore -regarded as commonplace. - -So pleasant was the evening thus spent with his new companions that -when Sacandaga gave the signal for conversation to cease that his young -men might sleep and so prepare for an early start on the morrow, Nahma -was filled with eager anticipations of the new life opening before him, -and already wondered how he could have been content with that passed in -the lodge of Kaweras. - -With the earliest promise of dawn he was first of all the sleeping -warriors to spring to his feet and begin preparations for departure. -Such as he had to make were few and simple, but to him they were of -vast importance. New moccasins and leggings of buckskin, a light robe -of soft furs in which to wrap himself at night, and a wing feather from -the great eagle for his head completed his list of personal belongings. -Besides these he would take a bow and the quiver of fine flint-headed -arrows that Kaweras presented to him that morning, his stone hatchet or -tomahawk, and the copper scalping-knife that was his sole relic of a -former but unremembered life. Also he must furnish to the general stock -of provisions a large, close-woven basket of parched corn. - -By sunrise a meal had been hastily eaten and everything was in -readiness for the setting forth of the war-party. Kaweras embraced -Nahma and bade him make for himself a name. Tears streamed down the -cheeks of Otshata as she bade him farewell and pressed into his hands a -pair of daintily embroidered moccasins as a token of remembrance. The -youth looked on all sides for Aeana, but she was nowhere to be seen. -Only after his canoe was well out on the river and he glanced back for -a farewell view of the place that had been to him a home did he see, -standing on a slight elevation and gazing in his direction, a solitary -figure that he knew to be that of the girl who scorned him. - -Some days later he found tucked down in the toe of one of Otshata's -moccasins an exquisite little tinder-bag of softest fawn-skin that he -had last seen hanging from the shapely neck of Aeana. - - - - -CHAPTER VIII - -TWO YOUNG SCOUTS - - -For two days did Sacandaga's little expedition proceed up the Shatemuc, -now making tedious carries around roaring waterfalls, and again -laboriously hauling their laden canoes up some stretch of tumultuous -rapids. At one of these places Sacandaga, bidding Nahma accompany -him, left the river and made his way swiftly along a broad trail that -led to the westward. After following it for a while they came to a -place of many springs delightfully shaded by giant trees. Although no -human being was to be seen, there were on all sides remnants of former -encampments. Also the ground about certain of the springs was worn -bare by innumerable hoof-prints, showing that deer and other animals -were accustomed to gather here in great numbers. Deeply marked trails -leading from every direction centred here, as though the springs formed -a meeting-place for all people. - -As Nahma noted these things Sacandaga smiled at his expression of -astonishment. "It is Sara Tioga, the place of healing," he said. "To -it come all who are sick or suffer pain that they may drink of the -medicine waters and be cured. Many would be here now but for the report -that an enemy is coming this way. When we have wiped him out then will -we return hither, that we may rejoice with feasting and dancing. At -that time will be seen a great gathering of the Iroquois, for this is -the place of all their places that they most love. Now, however, we may -tarry only long enough to drink of the life-giving waters and then must -we hasten forward. In drinking take careful note of the spring most -offensive to thy taste, for thus may be discovered which one is most -needful to thy well-being." - -So Nahma drank of all the springs, finding some of them salt, some -sparkling with effervescence, and others so nauseous that he turned -from them in disgust. - -"I like none of them and will drink no more," he finally declared. - -"Then must all of them be for thy good and thou must stand in need of -all the elements they contain," answered his companion, who cared to -hear naught but praise of his beloved springs. "But let us go, for we -have no time to lose." - -As they turned to depart from the beautiful place, Nahma suddenly -sprang upon his companion with such violence that Sacandaga was hurled -to the ground and the young man fell with him. At the same moment an -arrow was buried to its shaft in the trunk of a beech a few paces in -front of them, where it stood quivering with the force that had sped -it. Even as he fell Nahma bounded up, and an instant later, when the -startled sachem also gained his feet, he saw the young warrior darting -back in the direction from which they had just come. - -At the same time a third figure hideously daubed with war-paint -appeared in plain view. He stood directly in front of the rash youth -with bended bow and a second arrow drawn to its head. Quick as thought -Nahma dropped, and the feathered missile flew harmlessly above him. As -he again leaped to his feet his assailant turned to fly, but ere he -had taken half a dozen steps he sprang convulsively into the air and -plunged headlong with outstretched arms. An arrow sped from Sacandaga's -bow had passed through his body. - -"Why did you kill him?" asked Nahma, regretfully, as the two stood -together looking down on the still twitching body of their late foe. - -"Is it not what my young brother would have done?" inquired Sacandaga, -in surprise. - -"No; I would have caught him and made him tell me things." - -"What things?" - -"Why he hid from us and tried to kill us, who he was, and what he was -doing here. I do not remember seeing him among thy young men." - -Sacandaga smiled grimly. "He seems to have escaped being seen until he -came within range of Quick-eye's vision; but all thy questions may be -answered in a word. He is a Huron." - -"A Huron!" cried Nahma. "How may that be, when he looks like other men? -I thought a Huron was a wolf. Surely my father has said so." - -"A Huron is a wolf in spirit," replied Sacandaga, as he stooped and -deftly removed the dead man's scalp, "but the wolfish spirit is -concealed beneath the semblance of a man." - -"Then how may one know a Huron?" asked the puzzled youth. - -"By his paint, his moccasins, the cut of his scalp-lock, the fashion -of his weapons, his cast of feature, and by a thousand other signs as -plain as the difference between light and darkness." - -All these things had once been well known to Nahma; but now they were -as though he had never before heard of them, and he listened eagerly to -the words of Sacandaga's lesson. - -"This time," concluded the sachem, "my young brother has done well, -and to his quickness of sight combined with promptness of action do I -owe my life. But never again, my son, run openly upon an enemy without -first knowing his strength. It is seldom that a Huron spy comes alone -into the Iroquois country, and had there been others, or even one -other, with this one, thy death had been certain. Always when surprised -seek first a place of hiding from which to discover the strength of thy -enemy and plan for meeting him." - -The Huron scout who had just paid the penalty of his daring was one -of two sent to discover if the Iroquois had knowledge concerning the -projected invasion of their country. His companion had remained with -their canoe at the upper end of Andia-ta-roc-te (Lake George) while he -had penetrated the country as far as the springs of healing, where, -if the Iroquois felt themselves secure from invasion, he was certain -to discover a number of their lodges. He was greatly disappointed at -finding the place unoccupied, and was about to retrace his steps with -the information that an alarm had been given, when Sacandaga and his -young companion appeared on the scene. Hiding like a snake in the -grass, the Huron watched these two with longing eyes while waiting to -see if they would be followed by others. He recognized Sacandaga, and -was determined if possible to carry back with him the scalp of that -redoubtable chieftain. - -An opportunity came as his enemies turned to depart, and he cautiously -brought his bow into position. At that instant Nahma, glancing back, -caught sight of a tip of the weapon projecting above the tall grasses -and did the only thing possible to save his companion's life. - -As the fortunate survivors of this episode left the scene of its -occurrence they took a path leading northward, and after a time came -again to the Shatemuc, having cut off a great bend of the river that -the canoes must necessarily follow. As they went they discovered the -slight trail left by the Huron scout, but at the river it was lost. -Wading to the opposite bank, Nahma soon recovered it, and asked -permission to follow it farther; but Sacandaga would not grant this -until the arrival of the canoes. Then, after briefly relating what had -happened, he selected a young warrior already famous as a trailer and -ordered him to accompany Nahma over the path the Huron had come. This -warrior was named Ah-mik-pan-pin, or the Grinning Beaver, on account of -two prominent front teeth over which his lips were never wholly closed. - -"Have a care," said Sacandaga on parting with the young men, "and run -no risks for the sake of scalps. What I desire is a knowledge of the -party to which that Huron belonged. I would know how large it is, -where it is camped, and whether it is coming or going. Find out these -things as quickly as may be and come again with thy news. The Maquas -will sleep to-night at the foot of the great rock by the shore of the -wide waters. They will have no fire and will make no sound, but he who -utters the cry of wah-o-nai-sa (the whippoorwill) twice and then once -will be answered by the same cry once and then twice. Go thou and come -again quickly." - -With this Nahma and Grinning Beaver set forth, and were instantly -lost to view in the thickness of the forest. For two hours they sped -forward without a pause, then they began to see spaces of light through -the trees, and the Beaver intimated that they must now exercise the -greatest caution. - -"This trail will not lead us to them," he whispered, "for they will -have moved to one side or the other after their runner left. Let us, -then, go separately to the water's edge, thou on the one side and I -on the other. Whoever reaches the beach first shall utter the cry of -wah-o-nai-sa, and if it be not quickly answered he shall return to see -what is wrong. Is it well?" - -"It is well," replied Nahma, and the two went their respective ways as -agreed. - -With the utmost caution and without a sound louder than his own -breathing did Nahma circle towards the lighted space marking the limit -of the forest. All at once he stopped and listened. From behind him, -faint and distant, he had heard an unmistakable exclamation of surprise. - -It was not repeated nor did he hear further sounds, but it was enough, -and after a moment of listening he started back over the way he had -come. He found the place where he had parted from his companion, and -then followed the slight trail made by the latter. Suddenly and without -warning he came upon a sight so startling that he stood in his tracks -like one petrified, gazing at it with dilated eyes. - -Two warriors locked in a deadly embrace lay motionless on the ground. -Their surroundings were drenched with blood, and to all appearance both -were dead. Nahma stooped over them, and saw to his horror that one of -the faces, so swollen and distorted that he had not sooner recognized -it, was that of his recent comrade. The other was a Huron, and a knife -still clutched by the Beaver's hand was buried to the hilt in his -heart. At the same time his own fingers held the throat of the young -Iroquois with a grip like that of a vise. - -It required all of Nahma's strength to unlock that death-clutch, but at -length he succeeded, and the two mortal foes so recently thrilled with -vigorous life lay side by side stark and rigid. - - - - -CHAPTER IX - -ON THE LAKE - - -Nahma gazed about him in dismay. Night was coming on, he was alone in a -place of which he had no knowledge, and he believed himself surrounded -by enemies. He even fancied he could see dark faces peering at him from -behind the shadowy tree-trunks. Above all, the companion upon whom he -had relied for guidance and counsel lay dead at his feet. Although a -savage himself, accustomed only to savage sights and ways, our lad -had seen so little of death that this last fact seemed incredible. He -kneeled beside the Beaver and gazed into his face, calling him by name -in a low voice and bidding him open his eyes. - -As he did this the dreadful aspect of the face on which he was looking -suggested another that he had seen but a week earlier. It had been that -of a man drowned in the Shatemuc and brought to the lodge of Kaweras. -To all appearance he was dead, and yet the old arrow-maker had restored -him to life. Nahma remembered perfectly what was done at that time, for -he had closely watched every operation, and had even assisted Kaweras -in his efforts. Now, in his despair over the present situation, but -feeling that he could not yield to it without making some attempt at -its betterment, he set to work upon the Beaver exactly as Kaweras had -done with the drowned man. He turned the body on its face, drew forward -the tongue, and cleared the mouth of froth. Then by rolling the body on -its side and back again, at the same time applying a gentle pressure -to back and breast, he forced air into and expelled it again from the -lungs, thus producing an artificial breathing. After that he sought -to restore circulation by rubbing upward along the legs. In all his -efforts he was without hope of success and only worked for the sake of -doing something. He was therefore utterly amazed as well as overjoyed -to detect in his patient a slight gasping for breath. He could scarcely -believe he had heard aright until it was repeated, and then he knew -that the Beaver was still to be counted among those who lived. - -Without thought of the danger from probable enemies, Nahma sprang to -his feet, started towards the lake for water, and had gone half-way -before he recalled that he had nothing in which to fetch it. Upon -this he ran back, and picking up the still unconscious form of his -companion, staggered to the beach with it in his arms. On his way -he ran across a canoe concealed in a clump of bushes, but paid no -attention to it for the moment. - -As he laid his burden on the sand and glanced up to see if they were -still safe from the presence of enemies, he detected a vague form some -distance up the beach that disappeared within the forest even as he -looked. It must of course be a Huron warrior, and doubtless others -were with him. In that case to remain where they were meant certain -destruction, and there was but one way to save his helpless companion -as well as himself. The canoe that he had just discovered would at -least bear them away from the treacherous forest and give them a -fighting chance for their lives in the open. - -In another minute Nahma had launched the light craft, placed his -comrade inside, and was paddling furiously out over the lake. He had -not gone more than one hundred yards when a series of yells from -behind, and a flight of arrows sent with deadly intent, showed that his -escape was discovered. Most of the arrows fell short, and none of them -inflicted any damage. At the same time Nahma, glancing back, thought he -saw other canoes coming down the coast. - -It was now so nearly dark that all objects were indistinct, and if he -could only maintain his lead for a short time longer he might still -evade his pursuers. So the tired youth infused new energy into his -paddling and urged his craft forward with redoubled speed. As he knew -nothing of the lake, he had no idea where to look for the great rock -beside which Sacandaga was to spend the night, nor was the Beaver in -any condition to afford him information. So he held a course as far -as possible from both shores and continued his paddling until nearly -midnight, when he was forced by sheer exhaustion to give it over. - -Dark as was the night, our lad could still distinguish the darker -forms of occasional islands as he passed them, and at length drawing -cautiously in towards one of these, he made a landing. In all this -time the Beaver had been slowly struggling back to life, but he was -still devoid of strength or a knowledge of his surroundings. So Nahma -prepared as well as he could a bed of branches and grass, to which he -bore his comrade. He also dragged up the canoe and turned it on its -side to provide shelter from a drizzle of chill rain that was beginning -to fall. Having completed these simple preparations, the youth ate a -handful of parched corn drawn from his wallet, and lying down beside -the Beaver was almost instantly fast asleep. - -In regard to the necessaries of life the American of that day was in no -degree removed from the beasts of the field. Like them he could thrive -upon the natural products of the forest, and he also found its shelters -sufficient for his needs even in the most inclement weather. With -materials for a feast at hand he feasted; but when they were lacking he -went without food uncomplainingly and for incredible lengths of time. -If in the present instance our lad had dared allow himself the luxury -of a fire he would quickly have acquired all the comforts of a home, -including an abundance of cooked food, a good bed, warmth, and light. -As it was he accepted cold, wet, hunger, and a most uncomfortable -resting-place as things liable to be encountered at any time in the -ordinary course of events. - -The remainder of the night passed without incident, and by dawn Nahma -was once more alert. His first move was to climb a tall tree that stood -close at hand and take a comprehensive survey of the lake. Seeing it -thus for the first time by daylight, he was impressed by its marvellous -beauty. Its blue waters were dotted with islands all wooded and -blending every shade of green. On both sides forest-covered hills rose -abruptly from the shore, and back of them towered mountains higher than -any he had ever seen. The lake was nowhere more than a mile or two in -width, and to the northward it narrowed rapidly. - -Having gazed as long as he dared on the outspread beauties of the -scene, and satisfied himself that nothing was in motion on the face -of the waters, the youth descended from his observatory and proceeded -to make ready a breakfast. He was tired of parched corn, and his -ravenous appetite demanded something more substantial. He even decided -to run the risk of a fire. So he gathered a small quantity of dry, -hard wood that would burn with the least amount of smoke, and, after -an exasperating struggle with flints and tinder, caught a spark that -was finally fanned into a brisk blaze. With the making of a fire the -hardest part of his breakfast-getting was ended, although he had as yet -nothing to cook. Five minutes later, however, he was in possession of a -large pickerel and two good-sized bass, all of which had been enticed -within striking distance of his arrows by a bait of worms. These fish -wrapped in green leaves were buried under a bed of coals, and while -they were cooking Nahma gathered berries. - -When all was in readiness, he was vastly disappointed to find that -his companion was unable to share in the meal. The Beaver had so far -recovered that he was able to sit up and take an intelligent interest -in what was going on. The expression of longing with which he regarded -those baked fish left no doubt that he, too, was hungry; but, alas! he -could not swallow food. His throat was so swollen that he could not -even speak, and he still breathed with difficulty. He was so parched -with thirst that he managed after a painful struggle to swallow a few -drops of water, but that was all. - -So Nahma was reluctantly obliged to eat alone while his companion -watched him enviously. As he ate, the former told what he knew -concerning the events of the preceding evening, and the Beaver learned -for the first time that they were on an island far down the lake in -hiding from a war-party of Hurons. He had wondered at finding himself -alone with Nahma instead of in Sacandaga's company, but had supposed -that they were within a short distance of the great rock, as he knew -had been the case when they first gained the lake-shore. His distress -at being unable to ask questions and express his views on the situation -was so evident as to suggest a possible remedy, upon which Nahma -immediately set to work. First he stripped some sheets of bark from a -white birch, and with them fashioned a rude but water-tight bowl that -would hold about a gallon. This he partially filled with water. In the -mean time he had thrown into the fire some large beach pebbles, and -these were now thoroughly heated. Lifting them with forked sticks and -dropping them into the bowl, he almost instantly had hot water, with -which he bade the Beaver bathe his throat. - -While the latter was doing this Nahma bethought himself to climb once -more into his observatory for another look at the lake. As he gained -the highest available branch and glanced back over the way they had -come he uttered an exclamation of dismay. Not more than two miles -distant was a fleet of canoes advancing directly towards him. He could -plainly see the flash of their paddles and note their movements as -they separated or closed together. There was no doubt but that the -enemy from whom he had fled was again close upon him, and to remain on -that island meant certain discovery, since no Indian would pass a fire -without finding out by whom it had been kindled. To leave the island -and make for the mainland on either side was out of the question, for -their moving canoe would surely be discovered. Thus the only thing -remaining to be done was to proceed straight down the lake, with the -hope of gaining another place of concealment while still hidden by the -island from those who came behind. - -With this plan formed our young warrior hastily descended the tree, -told his companion that the Hurons were again in hot pursuit, and -bundled him into the canoe ere he had time to gain further information. -Then Nahma gave him a paddle and told him that if he valued his life he -must put forth whatever of strength he had remaining. - - - - -CHAPTER X - -AN OKI OF THE WATERS - - -As Nahma had intended remaining on the island until his companion -fully recovered from his injuries, he had not hurried with anything -that he had done that morning. Consequently it was mid-day when the -flight was resumed and the fugitives again headed their canoe down the -lake, keeping the island directly behind them as a screen from their -pursuers. Although working furiously at his paddle, Nahma glanced -behind him every few moments, and as time passed was amazed that the -enemy did not come into sight. - -At length, after a couple of hours of incessant labor, the canoe -rounded a bold headland that nearly cut the lake in twain, and was -hidden behind it from any who might be following. Here the lake was -very narrow, and Nahma proposed that they should run the canoe ashore, -hide it, and seek to rejoin their friends by land. - -"No," said the Beaver, who had recovered his power of speech. "If the -Hurons are following us, they will surely have scouts in the forest on -both sides. We should be certain to fall in with these, and I am not -yet ready for fighting. Now that we have come thus far by water, let -us keep on. At a short distance from here this lake ends, but it is -joined to another much larger. On that other a canoe may go north even -to the country of the Hurons. It may also go south to the land of the -Iroquois. Let us, then, find the big water and turn to the south, for -if those following us be Hurons they will certainly hold a course to -the northward." - -"We will do as my brother says," replied Nahma, delighted to have -again the counsel of his more experienced companion. So the course -of the canoe was continued, but only Nahma now wielded a paddle. The -Beaver had been so much benefited by hot-water applications and by the -subsequent exercise of paddling that his throat was again serviceable. -Not only could he talk but he believed he could eat, and as Nahma had -brought along one of the three fish caught for breakfast, he made the -attempt with such gratifying success that it quickly disappeared. Being -thus refreshed and strengthened, he began to question his companion -concerning the events of the preceding night. - -When Nahma related the finding of the two mortal enemies clutched in a -death-grapple the Beaver said,-- - -"It is so. As I saw the Huron he saw me, and we sprang at each other -with our knives, for we were too close to use bows or even the -tomahawk. His knife broke, and as I drove mine into his body his -fingers closed about my throat. Ugh! It was the grip of a bear, and I -could not loose it. Again and again did I bury my knife in his heart, -but he would not let go. Then all became black and I died. How my -brother brought me back from the place of Okis [departed spirits] I -know not, but when next I awoke he lay beside me under a canoe and a -band as of fire was about my head. Now, therefore, the life of Grinning -Beaver belongs to his brother. But tell me quickly how knew you we were -pursued by Hurons? There were traces of but two of them, while many of -our own people were to meet Sacandaga at the great rock." - -"I know that our pursuers are Hurons, or at least enemies, because they -crept on us by stealth. Also when they saw we had escaped they yelled -with rage and shot arrows to kill us. Besides that, they followed after -us in canoes, and but for the coming of darkness would surely have -overtaken us." - -"Is it certain that they shot after us with arrows?" - -"It is certain, for one of them struck the canoe and lies even yet -where it fell. So my brother may see for himself and know that I have -spoken truly." - -The Beaver plucked the arrow thus indicated from the sheathing of the -canoe in which its point was embedded and examined it closely. As he -did so a puzzled expression came over his face, and he exclaimed,-- - -"But this is not a Huron arrow! It is of the Iroquois, and might have -been made by Kaweras himself. Look. As a bowman thou shouldst know this -fashion of feathering." - -"I do know it," replied Nahma, taking the proffered arrow as he spoke -and studying its make. "Also I should have recognized it sooner had I -looked, but it fell in darkness, and since then I have been too busy to -recall it until now." - -"If this was the only style of arrow aimed at us," continued the -Beaver, "those who pursue us must be friends, who have in turn mistaken -us for enemies." - -"It would seem so," agreed Nahma, in a mortified tone, "and it is to my -shame that I should have shown so great stupidity." - -"Take it not to heart, my brother. No warrior may learn his trade save -by experience. What you have done has been well done, and no harm has -come of it. Only now that we know those behind us to be friends, we -must look sharply for enemies in front and see that our friends come -not upon them unaware." - -"Shall we not turn back at once," asked Nahma, "and give to Sacandaga a -warning of the true state of affairs?" - -"Not at once, but presently," replied the Beaver, "for we are even -now close to the great waters of which I spoke. It will be well, -therefore, if we take a look at them before turning back. We may thus -have news to report that will cause him to rejoice at sight of us." - -During this conversation Nahma had continued to paddle easily, and the -canoe had glided gently forward with the current of a forest-shaded -stream forming an outlet to the lake they had just traversed. As the -Beaver concluded his remarks the roar of falling waters ahead of them -gave warning that their farther progress in this direction was barred. -So the canoe was left cunningly as though it had drifted to that place, -and the two young scouts made their way through a mile-wide strip of -forest to the shore of a second lake that lay behind. Here they gazed -eagerly out over the wide water-way, but for a moment saw nothing -unusual. As they were about to venture into the open, Nahma checked the -movement with a guarded exclamation of amazement. A human figure had -suddenly appeared on the crest of a headland that jutted into the lake -a short distance from them, and for several seconds it stood motionless -in the full light of the westering sun, as though spell-bound by the -beauty of the outspread landscape. - -Although it presented the form of man, it was unlike anything either of -the astonished observers had ever seen. It appeared twice the size of -an ordinary man, and at certain points it glinted in the sunlight with -a sheen like that of rippling waters. Its head, upon which the sunlight -also flashed, was of huge proportions and apparently devoid of hair. - -"It is an Oki," whispered the Beaver, apprehensively. "A god of the -waters. See you not how he shines with wetness?" - -Even as the Beaver spoke, a second figure appeared for an instant -beside the one at which the awe-stricken youths were gazing. It was -that of a man like themselves, half-naked, painted, and bedecked with -feathers. This last apparition plucked the other by the arm and they -disappeared together. - -Our young scouts looked at each other in wonderment. "We must know more -of this affair," said the Beaver. "Let us move in that direction and -see what may be found." - -A few minutes later, moving with the utmost caution, they had reached a -point from which they could look beyond the headland. There they beheld -a scene that held their gaze with breathless interest, and, crouching -beneath the overhanging branches of a thick-growing spruce, they -watched it in silence. - -The sun was setting and its light was growing dim, but they could -see a fleet of canoes drawn up on the lake-shore, and beyond them -many men moving busily about a large cleared space. They could not -discover among these the strange figure that had first attracted their -attention, nor was there any glow of fire-light. - -The Beaver drew in his breath as though about to speak, but Nahma -checked him with warning hand, and at the same instant a twig snapped -directly behind them. The young scouts dared not so much as move their -heads, but from the corners of their eyes they caught glimpses of four -shadowy forms that flitted noiselessly by and vanished in the direction -from which they themselves had come. They were Hurons seeking to make -certain before the complete shutting in of night that no enemy lurked -in the vicinity of their camp. - -For several minutes after these had passed our lads remained motionless -and silent. Then the Beaver rose and moved without a sound in the -direction taken by the Huron scouts, while Nahma, his nerves tense with -excitement, followed the lead thus given. Neither spoke until finally -they came again to the place where they had left their canoe. To their -dismay, it was gone, but the Beaver said in a whisper,-- - -"It is well for us that it is of Huron make, so that they may think it -was left by those of their own people who were sent ahead. Now let us -find Sacandaga, for we have much to tell him." - -The task of making their unlit way back along the shore of the stream -they had so recently descended without effort was beset with many -difficulties. They must keep close to the river, for not only was -it their guide but by it sooner or later their friends were almost -certain to pass. They must thread the forest mazes in silence, and they -must pause with every minute to listen for the dip of paddles. Even -then Sacandaga's canoes might drift by them unseen and unheard. But a -warning must be given, if such a thing were possible, and in spite of -all obstacles they pushed steadily forward. - -At length they came to a place where the stream began to broaden. They -had gained the lower end of Andia-ta-roc-te and dared go no farther. So -they waited while Nahma uttered full and clear the plaintive call of -the whippoorwill. Twice did he repeat it, and then once more after a -brief interval. - - - - -CHAPTER XI - -THE COMING OF SACANDAGA - - -As the concluding notes of Nahma's cry echoed over the still waters and -were lost among the distant hills, the two youths listened anxiously -for an answer. Nor had they long to wait, for within a minute the call -of a whippoorwill came back to them almost exactly as the young warrior -had uttered it; but it came from the wrong direction. - -"Sacandaga has passed us after all," muttered Nahma in a tone of -vexation. - -"Not so," replied the Beaver, "for that was not the answer agreed upon. -Do you not remember? The call was to be two and then one, while the -answer was to be one and then two. This answer came back even as the -call was given, and so could not have been made by Sacandaga or any of -his warriors." - -"Who, then----?" began Nahma, but he was interrupted by a quavering -note of ko-ko-anse (the little screech-owl) that came from no great -distance. - -"It is a Huron call," whispered the Beaver; "answer it quickly." This -Nahma did, and the Beaver continued, "They are on the water and will -come to this point for further information. Do you remain here and take -care that they discover not thy presence. I will retire a little and -entice them or some of them to me, for I can speak the Huron tongue. -After that we must be guided by what will follow. Is it well?" - -"It is well," whispered Nahma, as he crouched low beside a log, one -end of which extended into the water. He did not hear the Beaver take -his departure, but knew that he was gone. Then from off the river, -but close at hand, came again the tremulous cry of ko-ko-anse. It was -answered by the Beaver from a short distance inland, who in a voice -disguised as though by weakness cried,-- - -"Help me, brothers. Help me before I die." - -"Who calls?" inquired a voice from the water. - -"A Huron scout sorely wounded and helpless," answered the Beaver. - -"Is he alone?" - -"He is alone. There was another with him, but he was killed two days -since. Help or I perish." - -"Art thou Chebacno or Wabensickewa?" - -"I am Wabensickewa. Chebacno was slain by the Iroquois, who are even -now making ready a war-party. I hastened back to bring news of it, and -landed here to rest until darkness. While I slept a panther leaped on -my back. Before I could kill him he had so injured me that I cannot -walk. Also are my eyes blinded so that I cannot see. I have a canoe -that you will find at the water's edge, if indeed the wind has not -drifted it away. I have called many times, and was about to give over -calling when your answer came to lend me new strength. Now, then, my -brothers, come quickly, for I have much to tell before I die." - -A moment later Nahma felt a slight jar pass through the log against -which he lay and heard a few whispered words of consultation. Then two -figures stepped ashore and, passing so close to him that he could have -touched them, noiselessly entered the forest. He waited for a moment -and then cautiously lifted his head. Against the faint gleam of water -he could distinguish the black bulk of a canoe and see that it still -held two other figures who sat motionless. Slowly he raised his bow -with a stone-headed arrow fitted to its string until one of the sitting -figures was fairly covered. Then he waited with tense muscles and a -heart that seemed like to burst with its furious beating. From behind -him came a low moaning that he knew was made by the Beaver to deceive -his enemies. - -Suddenly the oppressive silence was broken by the twang of a bowstring -that was instantly followed by fierce yells. High above these rose the -defiant war-cry of the Iroquois, but its last note was cut short and -ended in a choking gurgle. - -Somehow Nahma managed to hear these things, though he was at the same -time intensely busy with affairs of his own. At the first intimation of -a struggle behind him he had let fly his ready arrow, and one of the -two figures in the canoe dropped heavily forward. The other, seeing -what he had supposed was a log suddenly endowed with life and leaping -towards him, uttered a cry of terror, sprang overboard, and disappeared -beneath the black waters. While Nahma tossed the limp form of the other -Huron from the canoe preparatory to going in pursuit of this swimmer, a -rustling among the bushes warned him to make good his own escape while -yet he might, and giving the canoe a great shove, he leaped aboard. - -As the craft shot out into the open a voice hailed it from the shore; -but as the words were spoken in the Huron tongue, Nahma made no answer. -He hesitated for a moment, wondering whether it might not be the Beaver -who called; but with a repetition of the demand he knew that that was -not the case. He was confirmed in this belief by hearing a slight -splash from close at hand, a stifled exclamation, and a few whispered -words. Evidently the swimmer who had made so hasty an exit from the -canoe had been encouraged by the voice of a friend to gain the land, -and now the two were once more in communication. - -What had become of the Beaver? Recalling the Iroquois war-cry and -its sadly suggestive ending, Nahma had little doubt that he had been -overcome and killed. He hated to think of deserting his comrade without -knowing for a certainty whether he were alive or dead, and yet to -attempt a landing in face of two enemies, and perhaps three, would be -an act of folly. His canoe had drifted out so far that they could not -see him in his present position, but it would be almost impossible to -gain the shore anywhere in that vicinity without detection. - -While in this state of indecision, which in reality lasted but a few -seconds, he heard faint and far away the cry of a whippoorwill. Twice -was it uttered, and then again after a short interval. It must be the -signal of Sacandaga, since it came from up the lake. Doubtless it had -been made in answer to the Beaver's far-reaching war-cry. In another -moment Nahma's canoe, impelled by a noiseless paddle, was speeding in -that direction. He dared not at once reply to the signal for fear of -drawing a flight of Huron arrows; but as soon as he believed himself -beyond range of these he rested on his paddle and sent far across the -lake the vibrant cry of wah-o-nai-sa once and then twice. - -A full minute elapsed before the answer came, and then he was startled -by its nearness. Had he not known better, he would have sworn that -it was uttered by a bird in flight while passing directly above him. -Allowing his craft to drift, he listened and heard the quick dip of -many paddles. A fleet of canoes was rushing towards him, and, as he -began to distinguish their vague outlines, he uttered a low call to -attract attention. - -"Who is it?" demanded the voice of Sacandaga, sharply, as the speed of -the oncoming canoes was checked. - -"It is Massasoit," answered the lad. - -"Where is Grinning Beaver, thy companion? Did he utter the war-cry of -the Iroquois that came to us as we were entering our canoes for a night -of travel?" - -"I fear the Beaver is dead," replied Nahma. "And if so, he was killed -even with the sounding of his war-cry." - -"Who killed him?" demanded Sacandaga, fiercely. - -"The Hurons." - -"How many are there?" - -"Only four did we encounter. Of these I saw one fall, and believe that -the Beaver, who was separated from me, killed another. One leaped into -the water and one I know escaped from the Beaver." - -"Were you on land or on the water?" - -"We were on land, and this is the canoe in which the Hurons came." - -"Where did it happen?" - -"At the beginning of a river that leads to the wide waters lying -towards the rising sun." - -"What know you of these wide waters? Have you been to them?" - -"Shortly before the coming of darkness were we there, and we turned -back to bring news of the war-party that we saw." - -"Hurons?" - -"Hurons, my father, and like the leaves of a tree for numbers. Also -they have with them an Oki to make timid the hearts of their enemies." - -"What mean you by an Oki?" - -With this Nahma described as well as he could the strange being seen by -himself and the Beaver, and all who could get within hearing listened -to his words with breathless attention. When Nahma declared that the -apparition, though seen on a headland, still gleamed with wetness as -though just emerged from the lake, his auditors were deeply impressed. -Only Sacandaga was incredulous, and appeared to treat the incident as -of small account. - -"It is but a Huron trick!" he exclaimed, that all might hear. "They are -too cowardly to fight like men, but have prepared an image with the -hope that sight of it will turn our blood to water. It is well, though, -that we have learned of this thing and know what to expect. Now let us -find whether the Beaver is alive or dead, and if the Huron dogs have -indeed slain him, bitterly shall he be avenged before we are done with -them." - -So Nahma guided the Iroquois canoes to the place where he had uttered -that first fateful call of the whippoorwill, and Sacandaga, with half -a dozen warriors, made a landing on the very log beside which he had -lain. - -It took them but a few minutes to discover the body of their late -comrade cold in death and scalped; but there was no trace of those who -had perpetrated the deed. If he had indeed killed one of them, the -others had either hidden the body or taken it away. - -Having learned these things and thirsting for vengeance, the Iroquois -re-entered their canoes and glided silently down-stream towards the -place where their enemies were encamped. - - - - -CHAPTER XII - -A MEETING OF DEADLY FOES - - -After carrying their canoes around the two waterfalls that obstruct -the outlet of Lake George, the Iroquois finally glided like so many -night-shadows out onto the surface of Lake Champlain. Then, guided by -the son of Longfeather, they approached the place where he had seen -the Hurons. Sacandaga had entered the canoe of the young scout that he -might learn more fully what had happened during the past two days; also -his place was in the leading canoe, that from it he might direct the -movements of his followers, who were now nearly two hundred in number. - -He had thought of attempting a night surprise of the northern invaders -by attacking their camp under cover of darkness; but this plan was -dismissed almost as soon as formed, for he remembered the prophecy of -Kaweras. The fight in which the Iroquois were to be successful must -take place in broad daylight and on a fair morning. The battle might -not, therefore, be waged at night, nor even on the morrow, unless it -were a day of cloudless sunshine. At the same time the Hurons must be -given no chance for escape, and to compel them to remain where they -were he stationed his force at the mouth of the cove in which lay their -fleet. This position was taken in silence and, it was thought, without -attracting attention. - -That the men from the north had, however, received notice of their -enemies' coming and were keenly on the alert to meet them was soon -proved by a jeering hail from the land. - -"Are the bark-eaters fish that they remain in the water? If they call -themselves men, why do they not come on shore and accept the welcome -awaiting them?" - -To this taunt the Iroquois replied with a chorus of fierce yells and -savage intimations of what would happen when they got ready to enter -the camp of the Huron dogs. - -So the night was spent in a brisk exchange of taunts, jeers, threats, -and insulting remarks well calculated to increase the bitterness of -the hate already existing between the two tribes. The Iroquois even -betrayed their knowledge of the mysterious being whom the Hurons had -called to their aid, and expressed the utmost contempt for him. To this -those on shore made no reply except to advise the Iroquois to call upon -their own gods for the aid they would surely need on the morrow. - -"Something has given them courage," remarked Sacandaga, "for never have -I known Hurons to talk so bravely in the presence of Iroquois. But we -will see whether their boldness can stand the test of daylight." - -At length the wished-for dawn arrived, and by its earliest gleams -Sacandaga landed his force at a point beyond arrow-shot of the Huron -camp and bade them light fires for the preparation of breakfast. He was -well aware of the fighting value of a full stomach, and was too wise a -leader not to seek every possible advantage even against a foe whom he -despised. - -Nor were the Hurons less ready to make the most of this opportunity for -preparing cooked food, the first time they had dared do so in several -days. Thus both parties remained hidden from each other, except through -the eyes of their watchful scouts, until the sun was an hour high. Not -only did Sacandaga wish to refresh his men by this rest, but he was -determined not to begin fighting until assured of conditions propitious -to his undertaking. With the weather, however, he had every reason to -be pleased, for never was a fairer morn. The sky was cloudless, the air -clear and crisp, the lake of a heavenly blue, and all nature was at its -best. As he looked about him he became elated over the certainty of his -forthcoming victory. - -"The Hurons have never yet been able to stand before an equal number of -Iroquois," he said, "and to-day with all things in our favor it will -be strange indeed if we do not wipe them out. But we may not delay, -lest the spirits become angry and send their lightnings to punish our -indifference to the favors they have shown. Let us, then, get to work -and finish this business quickly, that we may the more speedily return -to our own people." - -Although Sacandaga was one of the most skilful warriors of his time, -and well versed in all the tricks of his trade as practised by forest -fighters, he saw fit in the present instance to lead his painted -savages to the attack in a compact body. As the Hurons occupied the -centre of a large cleared space so wide as to place them beyond the -reach of arrows from forest covers, this plan was in a measure forced -upon him. At the same time he hoped to overawe the enemy and terrify -him by the number and ferocious appearance of his followers. So the -Iroquois, half naked, painted, befeathered, decked with bears' claws -and wolf-tails, dashed from the forest yelling and brandishing their -weapons, and advanced with a rush to where the Hurons awaited them. - -The latter appeared terrified, and seemed to shrink from the impending -onslaught. Then their solid formation broke, leaving a wide gap, -from which stepped a single figure. The Iroquois were not more than -fifty paces distant; but at sight of this apparition they came to a -sudden halt and stood as though petrified with amazement. The figure -confronting them was indeed that described by Massasoit, only it loomed -up larger than they had expected, and gleamed with a dazzling lustre in -the bright sunlight. It had the form of a man, but its face was covered -with a growth of hair that hung down on its breast. - -The person who appeared so remarkable to the denizens of the forest -that they deemed him a god was none other than the intrepid French -explorer Samuel de Champlain, founder of the city of Quebec. With but -two followers he had been induced to accompany a war-party of Canadian -Indians on their foray into Iroquois territory, and was thus the first -of his race to look upon the waters of the noble lake that has ever -since borne his name. - -For a few moments the Iroquois gazed awe-stricken upon this first white -man they had ever seen. Then, relying upon the prophecy of Kaweras, -that only thunder and lightning could prevent them from winning a -victory, they bent their bows and let fly a cloud of arrows. Many of -these were aimed at the white man standing so boldly before them, -but, to their dismay, he remained unharmed. Nahma in particular, who -had shot at the very centre of the shining breastplate, was amazed and -terrified to see his arrow, after striking, bound back as though it had -encountered a wall of rock. - -But scant time was given for the consideration of this marvel; for, -even as they shot at him, the mysterious being brought into position -a strange-looking stick that he carried until it was pointed directly -at them. Then came a flash of lightning, a roar of thunder, a cloud of -smoke, and a dozen of the Iroquois fell to the ground as though smitten -by the wrath of God. As was afterwards proved, but two of them were -killed and one--Sacandaga--was grievously wounded, while the others had -fallen from sheer fright. At the same time the Hurons rushed forward -with triumphant yells and a flight of arrows. - -For a moment the Iroquois wavered and seemed about to fly. Then Nahma, -son of Longfeather, sprang to the front with a loud cry, and, swinging -a stone war-club above his head, made straight for the thunder-god -who had wrought such havoc. Champlain was in the act of drawing his -sword when he was staggered by a terrific blow that would surely have -killed him but for the steel cap that he wore. Before he could recover, -and ere a second blow could be delivered, there came another flash of -lightning accompanied by its thunderous roar from a clump of bushes at -one side, and two more Iroquois were stricken with sudden death. - -At this fresh proof that the all-powerful spirits were indeed fighting -against them the hearts of the Iroquois melted, and they fled from the -field a panic-stricken mob. Even Nahma joined in the mad flight; but he -paused long enough to pick up his wounded chieftain, whom he hoped to -be able to carry as far as the canoes. - -At their heels streamed the exultant Hurons, striking down the -fugitives by the score. One of these drove a spear through the body of -Sacandaga; and Nahma, staggering under his burden, was knocked down by -the force of the blow. As he disengaged himself from the dead sachem -and regained his feet he found himself once more face to face with the -awful being who held in his hands the thunders and lightning of a -Manitou. - -At this moment Champlain, who had found time to reload his musket, -fired a second shot into the ranks of the flying Iroquois. Ere -its smoke could lift, Nahma, frenzied with rage and reckless of -consequences, sprang upon the white man with uplifted knife. The -blow was urged with all the splendid strength of the young warrior's -arm, but it only bent the copper blade in his grasp and left him -defenceless. Ere he could renew his flight he was flung to the earth -and bound immovably with thongs of tough bark. - -[Illustration: NAHMA SPRANG UPON THE WHITE MAN WITH UPLIFTED KNIFE] - -Nahma's first battle was ended in utter defeat, but he did not feel -humiliated, for he believed that he had fought against immortal spirits -who could come to no harm from the hands of man. He only wondered -vaguely, as he lay awaiting the pleasure of his captors, why the Okis -should have ranged themselves on the side of the perfidious Hurons -instead of aiding the Iroquois, whom he then believed to be the most -nearly perfect of human beings. - -About one-half the force that Sacandaga had led so confidently to -battle that morning reached the canoes and continued their flight -up the lake. The Hurons did not pursue them, for they were too busy -killing or taking captive those who were left behind. - -By noon the whole affair was ended, and the triumphant Hurons, taking -with them twoscore of dejected prisoners, as many bloody Iroquois -scalps, and a number of canoes laden with spoils, set forth on their -return to the St. Lawrence. - -With them went Champlain, still thrilled with the excitement of -fighting and killing, but already disgusted with the barbarities of -his savage allies. Could he have foreseen that his act of that day had -created a powerful enemy who for two hundred years to come would let -pass no opportunity for the killing of a Frenchman, his thoughts would -have been still more sombre. - -In camp that night, while still occupied with his melancholy -reflections, he was accosted by one of his white companions, who said,-- - -"Look yonder, monsieur. They are about to punish in pretty fashion the -young devil who twice this day attempted to take thy life." - - - - -CHAPTER XIII - -TO THE LODGES OF THE WHITE MAN - - -Realizing that for some reason the all-powerful white man who had that -day given them a victory over their enemies was displeased, the Hurons -agreed after a long consultation that it must be because the only -one among the Iroquois who had dared attack him was still allowed to -live. So, although such pleasures were generally reserved for their -home-returning, they determined to sacrifice the audacious young -warrior on the spot with the hope of thus regaining the favor of their -allies. In order that he might thoroughly comprehend what was in store -for him, they decided that he should first witness the torture of one -of his companions. For this purpose a victim was selected at random -from among the captives, and the two young men, facing each other, were -securely bound to saplings standing but a few yards apart. - -About the feet of each was piled a quantity of dry wood, and they were -ordered to chant their death-songs if they dared. The Maqua immediately -began in defiant tones to recount his own deeds of prowess on the -war-path, and tell how many Hurons he had slain. He hurled defiance at -his enemies, taunted them with their cowardice, and sought to so enrage -them that they would kill him at once; but Nahma remained dumb. He had -no deeds to tell of, nor was he in a humor to invent any. - -Suddenly the Hurons made a rush at the one who thus defied them, and -for a few minutes a fierce struggle raged about the helpless form. When -next it appeared in view its scalp had been torn off, while the still -living body was gashed and mutilated almost beyond recognition; but -defiant words still issued chokingly from its trembling lips. The poor -mortal frame was nearly spent, but its brave spirit was undaunted. The -next act of torture was by fire. Blazing splinters of fat pine were -thrust into the mangled body and hot ashes were poured on its bleeding -head. Then a light was applied to the dry wood, and in another minute -the eager flames were leaping high about their victim. - -The awful tragedy was accompanied by shrieks of laughter, mocking -yells, and a frantic dancing about the two young warriors, one of whom -was thus made to serve as a hideous object lesson to the other. When -the first was so nearly dead that his defiant utterances were reduced -to mere gaspings for breath, the dancing demons turned their attention -to the second victim, and prepared to inflict upon him a series of -still more devilish torments. - -Nahma had witnessed everything with fascinated gaze; but though -sickened to the point of fainting, had made no movement nor uttered a -sound to betray the agony of his thoughts. He now knew what to expect, -and was nerving himself to endure to the end, as became a warrior. -Aeana would never know, of course; but if by any chance the story of -his last hour should reach her ear, she must have no excuse to call him -"squaw." - -One of his tormentors approached with a bar of iron heated until it -glowed; for, through trading with the French, this metal was now known -to the Indians of the St. Lawrence valley. - -"Put out his eyes," shouted a spectator. "He has seen enough." - -As the glowing iron approached his face Nahma instinctively closed -his eyes; but a yell of derision from those near enough to note the -movement caused him to open them again quickly. But even in that brief -space something had happened, for the first thing on which they rested -was a gigantic figure bounding towards him. It uttered inarticulate -cries of rage and brandished a weapon. With a single blow from this -it dashed to earth the man bearing the red-hot iron. Falling on his -own instrument of torture, the wretch uttered a yell of pain as it -seared his flesh. At the same moment the terrible new-comer levelled -his weapon at the mutilated form bound to the opposite stake, and -with a flash of lightning accompanied by a stunning burst of thunder, -instantly freed the tortured spirit from its misery. - -Before the smoke of the discharge cleared away the new-comer was beside -Nahma, cutting savagely at his bonds. As the last one dropped he -grasped the young warrior by an arm and led him a few paces from the -cruel stake. Then turning to the sullen Hurons, who shrank from the -indignant blaze of his eyes, he denounced them in bitter terms. - -"You are worse than wolves," he cried. "You are scum and _canaille_. -You are devils, and should be made to dwell forever in a pit of fire. -Because you go forth to fight against a man and he meets you bravely, -is that a reason for torturing him when the fortune of war has placed -him helpless in your hands? This youth was the only one of all his -people who dared attack me face to face and hand to hand. Better still, -he was the only Iroquois brave enough to attempt the succor of their -wounded chieftain. He is fleet of foot and might easily have escaped, -but he would not go alone. So he fell into your inhuman hands, and as -a reward for his bravery you propose to torture him to death. Bah! You -make me so sick that I have a mind to sever all connection with you -from this hour, and order my men to beat you from my sight with sticks. -Now remember that this youth is _my_ captive, and whoever touches so -much as a hair of his head shall die, for I will not have him harmed. - -"Come, lad, with me," added Champlain, turning to Nahma; "you shall eat -and rest, and after that if you desire to return to your own people -you shall be free to do so. Only it would please me to have you remain -a little for instruction in the ways of white men and the making of a -better acquaintance between us, for I have taken a fancy to you beyond -any that I have yet entertained for a native of this wilderness." - -Although Nahma understood no word of what the marvellous stranger said, -he recognized the friendly tone and gesture, and was quite willing to -follow wherever the other might lead. As they were about to move away a -chief of the Hurons stood in the path and begged for a hearing. - -"It is true," he said, "that we would have killed this young man; but -it is because we thought our white father angry that he still lived. -Also is it true that in any case we should have put him to death on -reaching the place of our own people. We must have done this, for if -we should let him live he would sooner or later make an escape, and -in escaping would surely kill some of our people. It is because he is -a brave warrior that we could not let him live to do us mischief. If -he were a coward, then could we make of him a slave to hoe corn with -the squaws; but with a brave man this might not be done. Also because -of his bravery would we have tested him by fire, that he might give -proof of his courage to the very end of his life. Any brave man, Huron -or Iroquois, would rather perish at the stake than live the life of -a slave. It is our way, and if it be not also the way of our white -father, let him not cover us with shame on account of it, for we have -not yet learned one that is better." - -"You have spoken well," answered Champlain, "and already am I penitent -for my hasty words, since, as you say, you were only acting according -to your conception of what is right. Therefore I forgive you and will -continue to extend the hand of friendship. At the same time, see you to -it that no more atrocities are enacted in my presence. Also see to it -that this youth is accorded the respect due him over whom my protection -is extended." - -So it came to pass that Nahma, son of Longfeather, now known as -Massasoit the Iroquois, was saved from a dreadful death to become the -companion of the first white man he had ever met, who was also one of -the foremost adventurers of his age. - -Although Champlain had laid aside his steel armor, he was still so -utterly different in appearance from any person Nahma had ever seen -that the latter continued to regard him as a supernatural being, and -accompanied him with much trepidation. Also the youth was dazed by the -peril he had just escaped and the strangeness of his deliverance. - -As they went towards Champlain's own camp-fire, Nahma noticed for the -first time that two more of the strange beings walked close beside -them; and, listening to their conversation, though of course without -understanding it, he all at once became convinced that they were indeed -human like himself. Moreover, it flashed into his mind that they must -be of that white race concerning which he had heard much talk in the -lodge of Kaweras. By that shrewd Indian the apparently meaningless -words repeated by Nahma during his illness had been conjectured to -belong to the vocabulary of white men, and he had said as much to his -young guest. Thinking of these things and acting upon a sudden impulse, -just as they reached Champlain's separate camp Nahma exclaimed,-- - -"Hillo!" - -The three white men stared at him in amazement. - -"Sacré!" added the young warrior. - -"What have we here?" cried Champlain. "A savage from the interior -wilderness speaking both English and French. It is incredible.--My -young friend, who taught you the tongues of the Old World? Where have -you met white men?" - -"Mass, I saw it," remarked Nahma. He was well pleased at the effect -of the words already used, but looked for a still greater exhibition -of amazement on the part of his hearers at this final utterance. To -his disappointment, they only gazed blankly and evidently without -understanding. - -"That is evidently a native word, and must be his own name," said -Champlain. "Massasoit. It hath a pleasing sound and fits well his -aspect. Not only has he proved himself to be braver than any of his -fellows, but he hath a look of superior intelligence. For these -things I had thought to afford him opportunity of escaping during the -night, and so of making his way back to his own people. Now, however, -he has so aroused my interest and curiosity with his fluency in -foreign tongues that I cannot afford to loose him until we are better -acquainted. See to it, therefore, that he does not escape." - -Thus Nahma, who if he had held his tongue would have been set free, -was still retained as a captive and borne northward by the victorious -Hurons. The journey down the lake, through the rapid Richelieu, and -over the broad flood of the mighty St. Lawrence was full of interest -and novel sensations to our lad. None of them was, however, to be -compared with the wonder and amazement that filled his soul on the -evening of the tenth day of travel, when they came to Quebec, and he -gazed for the first time on the lodges of white men. - - - - -CHAPTER XIV - -TWO INMATES OF A GUARD-HOUSE - - -Samuel de Champlain was one of the most daring and persistent of -explorers in the New World. Before coming of age he visited the West -Indies and Mexico, going down the Pacific coast of the latter country -as far as Panama. Then as he crossed the isthmus he conceived the idea, -which he afterwards made public, of a ship canal that should connect -the two oceans. His next voyage, inspired by the published narrative of -Jacques Cartier, carried him into the St. Lawrence and up that mighty -river as far as Hochelaga (Montreal), which point Cartier had also -reached nearly seventy years earlier. - -Champlain subsequently explored the coasts of Canada and New England, -helped to found the unfortunate settlements of St. Croix and Port -Royal, and sailed to the southward as far as Cape Cod. On his way he -stopped in Boston harbor, which he describes as being filled with -heavily wooded islands. He also discovered the Charles River, and named -it Rivière du Guast. On the following day he took refuge from a gale -in Plymouth harbor, which he named Port St. Louis, and which he thus -visited long before the Pilgrims landed on its shores. - -After spending some years on the coast and crossing the Atlantic -several times, the energetic Frenchman again entered the St. Lawrence -and sailed as far as Stadaconie, where Cartier first and after him -Roberval had planted ill-starred and short-lived settlements. At this -point Champlain determined to establish a base from which to explore -the vast regions that, hidden in savage mystery, stretched away -indefinitely on all sides. It should also be head-quarters for the -greatest fur trade the world had ever known, and for the religious -institutions from which he hoped to spread Christianity among the -heathen. - -Here, then, on a narrow strand at the foot of towering cliffs, he set -his men to work, and before the summer was ended they had erected three -spacious buildings, enclosed them within a stout palisade, planted -defensive batteries, dug a moat around the whole, cleared land for a -garden, and opened up a trade with the neighboring Indians. Thus was -begun a city destined to become one of the most important of the New -World, and to it Champlain gave the name of Quebec, which was his -pronunciation of a native word signifying a narrowing of the river. - -In Quebec, twenty-seven years later, the great Frenchman died, leaving -behind him a record of adventure and achievement such as but few others -could show. He had succeeded where many had failed, and had established -an empire in the New World. He had crossed the ocean more than a score -of times to make himself equally welcome in the court circles of -France and beside the council-fires of Huron warriors. He had explored -the Ottawa to its head-waters, crossed the divide to Lake Nipissing, -descended to Georgian Bay, and was the first white man to gaze upon the -inland sea that he named Lake Huron. He next discovered Lake Ontario, -crossed it in a bark canoe, and penetrated the Iroquois country as far -as the site of Syracuse. In the beautiful lake that bears his name he -has an enduring monument. He started on the journey that ended on Lake -Champlain with the hope, then common to all explorers, of discovering -a western passage to China, and only failed because he could not find -what did not exist. Instead of it, he discovered, saved from an awful -death, and carried to Quebec the youth who was to become known to the -world as Massasoit, chief of the Wampanoags. - -Champlain had long been looking for some young Indian of intelligence -and proved courage whom he might teach to speak his own language, -attach to his person, and employ to advantage in his proposed -explorations. In Nahma he believed he had found all the desired -qualities, and, what was still better, the youth, being an Iroquois, -would never join any Huron conspiracy against the French. The shrewd -adventurer was therefore greatly pleased with his prize and impatient -to begin his training. At the same time he found his Huron allies so -jealous of his liking for an Iroquois, that while he remained in their -company he dared not treat his captive with any marked attention. He -saw that Nahma was provided with food, and would not permit him to be -beaten or abused, as were some of the prisoners, but that was all. He -dared not even have the youth in his own canoe, much as he wished to -gain his confidence. Thus, Nahma saw but little of his white companions -on the weary journey that finally ended at Quebec. - -At the mouth of the Richelieu the victorious war-party disbanded, the -larger number, together with most of the prisoners, going up the St. -Lawrence towards their homes on the Ottawa, and only half a dozen -canoes of Montagnais, who dwelt on the Saguenay, followed Champlain -down the great river. As these came within sight of Quebec they raised -a triumphant war-song and plied their paddles with redoubled energy, -while Champlain and the other white men discharged their muskets in -token of victory. This was the first news of their absent leader -received by the anxious garrison since his departure, and in their joy -over his safe return they gave him a thunderous welcome from their -cannon. - -Not only did this dreadful sound nearly paralyze poor Nahma, but it -so terrified a small party of Indians who were trading within the -fort that they rushed from it in dismay, took to their canoes, and -paddled off with all speed. So precipitate was their flight that they -left behind one of their number, who in his terror had leaped from a -second-story window of the trading house and broken a leg. - -Champlain had left his infant colony in charge of Pierre Chauvin, a -smart young officer, who now met him outside the palisades with tidings -that caused an instant change of plan. The only ship that would return -to France that year had dropped down to Tadousac for a lading of furs -but two days earlier. For a moment Champlain hesitated, and then his -mind was made up. He must board that ship before she sailed, for he had -despatches of the utmost importance to send home by her. Thus he must -immediately hasten to Tadousac. This decision he imparted to Chauvin, -adding,-- - -"I will shortly return, and until then take thou good care of this -youth." Here the speaker indicated Nahma. "See that he escape not, for -his security is of importance to our cause. Keep him, then, safely -until I come again, when I will inform thee further concerning him. _Au -revoir, mon ami._ May the saints protect thee." - -Thus saying, Champlain rejoined his Indian allies, who were impatient -to be off, and in another minute was again sweeping down the great -river. By his order Nahma had been hastily bundled ashore, and now -stood gazing first at the wonderful structures rising close at hand -and then at the disappearing canoes. Chauvin stood near by, biting his -moustache and growling at his chief's sudden departure. - -"I wish I were in his place," he muttered; "and if once I could set -foot on shipboard I would sail away never again to revisit this -detestable country. How now, you spawn! What are you staring at?" he -cried, suddenly turning upon Nahma, who was looking curiously at him. - -Chauvin hated Indians as he did everything else in the country that had -so bitterly disappointed his dreams of easily acquired wealth, and he -was disgusted that one of them should now be left in his care. - -"Away with him to the guard-house!" he shouted to a couple of soldiers -in attendance, "and keep him in close confinement until the governor's -return, since that is his Excellency's order." - -So Nahma was roughly hustled away, led inside the palisade, across -the enclosed court, and thrust into the guard-house. It was a small -structure solidly built of logs, having a rude stone chimney and a -single unglazed window some eighteen inches square that was fitted with -iron bars and could be closed from the outside by a heavy shutter. -There were also bars across the throat of the chimney. The floor was -of earth and the room was unfurnished. As the massive door of this -dungeon swung to with a crash behind him the young Indian stood for a -moment motionless. Then, in a frenzy of rage, he dashed himself against -the immovable barrier, clutched at the window-bars in a vain effort to -wrench them from their fastenings, and rushed about the narrow space, -seeking some outlet, like a wild animal when first caged. - -While our lad was thus engaged the door of his prison was again flung -open and two soldiers entered. Still possessed by his frenzy, Nahma -sprang forward, determined to kill them and make good his escape or die -in the attempt; but the sight of a burden that they bore caused him to -pause. It was the form of another Indian youth apparently helpless. -Behind them came others bringing straw, two blankets, food, and a jug -of water. With the straw and blankets they made a bed in one corner, on -which they laid the wounded youth. Then without a word to the prisoner -they departed, barring the door behind them. - -Now our lad had at least something to occupy his mind and divert his -thoughts from his own unhappiness. He saw that the new-comer was -neither a Huron nor an Iroquois; but as he bent over him and began to -ask questions he discovered that they had many words of the wide-spread -Algonquin tongue in common. Thus he quickly learned that the other was -named Tasquanto, that he was of a band of the Abenakis who had come -to Quebec to trade, and that, terrified by the awful noise of cannon, -he had leaped from a window and broken a leg. His comrades having -deserted him, he had been brought to the guard-house that the only -other Indian remaining in the fort might wait upon him. - -So Nahma was provided with an occupation that probably prevented -him from either killing himself in his despair or losing his mind. -Thanks to the teaching of Kaweras, he was able to set and properly -bandage Tasquanto's broken limb, and for weeks thereafter he was his -fellow-prisoner's devoted attendant. - -In the mean time the green of summer was succeeded by the gorgeous -tints of autumn, and its short-lived glory gave way to the white -desolation of a northern winter; but Champlain did not return to -Quebec, nor did any word come from him. At the end of two months -Chauvin sent messengers to Tadousac; but they returned without having -seen a living soul, white or red; and not until the weary winter was -half spent did the garrison of that lonely fort learn what had become -of the leader whom they were mourning as dead. - - - - -CHAPTER XV - -THE BITTER WINTER OF CANADA - - -The Canadian winter, that is now a time of so much animation and gayety -in the city of Quebec, proved a season of terror, starvation, sickness, -and death to the handful of Frenchmen left by Champlain to guard his -infant settlement. At its beginning they recklessly squandered their -stores, eating and drinking with no thought of the morrow. If Champlain -had been with them he would have taught them differently, for he had -already passed several winters in the country and knew their bitter -meaning. But, lacking his wise guidance, they indulged in riotous -living until suddenly they came face to face with famine. The winter -was not more than half spent when this happened, and they began to -suffer from hunger. - -Now that it was too late for any real good, Chauvin seized every -particle of food that remained, locked it up, and doled it out to his -men in such meagre allowance as barely served to keep life in their -shivering bodies. He also sent them into the woods to hunt, or to -dig roots and groundnuts, with which to help out their scanty fare. -He had expected to be able to purchase all the provisions he needed -from Indians, who, during the summer, had brought game to the fort -in abundance, but now not a native was to be seen except a few poor -wretches who came empty-handed and as beggars. - -Unlike their brethren of the south, who cultivated fields and stored -harvests for the winter, the improvident dwellers of that region lived -wholly by hunting, feasting while game was plentiful and starving when -it was gone. - -In all this time no one within the limits of that wretched fort -suffered as did the son of Longfeather. From the day that he was thrust -into his prison he was not allowed to leave it for a breath of outside -air, or a glimpse of the freedom for which his soul longed, until it -seemed as though he would rather die than remain within those hated -walls another minute. - -And with it all he had no idea why he was thus confined or what fate -was in store for him. Only, as days, weeks, and months passed, he -became more and more certain that he was to have no release save only -by death itself. But one thing kept him from seeking this instead of -waiting for it, and that was the friendship of the young Indian who, -wounded and helpless, had been brought to him during the first hour of -his imprisonment. Tasquanto's recovery was slow, and for many weeks he -depended upon Nahma for everything. It did not take long for these two, -drawn to each other by the bonds of race and a common misfortune, to -cement a friendship, and swear that they would either gain freedom or -perish together. - -Although they could not plan an escape from their closely guarded -prison and must wait for chance to aid them, they spent hours in -discussing the course to be pursued if ever they got beyond those hated -walls. - -"We must make all haste to cross the river," said Tasquanto, "for the -Hurons would quickly kill us if we remained on this side. If it is -frozen that will be easy. If not, we must steal one of the clumsy -boats of these awkward white men, who make everything bigger and -heavier than is needful. On the other side we will conceal ourselves -until we can build a canoe, and then we will go southward. Beyond that -I cannot see, for if we go to the country of thy people, they will kill -me; while it would be dangerous for thee, an Iroquois, to be found in -my country." - -"But I am not of the Iroquois," protested Nahma. - -"Not of the Iroquois! Who, then, are thy people?" - -"That I know not. I was found among the Maquas, who are a tribe of -the Iroquois, sorely wounded and without memory of aught that had -ever happened before that time. Since then I have been an Iroquois by -adoption, but it is certain that I am not one by birth." - -This statement so changed the aspect of affairs that it was agreed they -should travel towards the country of the Abenakis in case an escape -could be effected. It also afforded a fruitful topic of speculation, -and thus helped pass the weary hours. - -Finally, the time came when Tasquanto was so fully recovered that he -was sent out to hunt food for the hungry garrison, and during the day -Nahma was left alone, since only at night was his companion allowed to -rejoin him. Chauvin realized that if both were sent into the woods they -would at once make good their escape; while, from the friendship he had -noted between them, he felt assured that Tasquanto would return to his -comrade so long as the latter was held. Nor did he dare allow Nahma to -escape while there was a chance of Champlain's return. - -So our poor lad shivered and starved in his hated prison-house, finding -his only occupation in making snow-shoes from materials furnished by -Tasquanto. He designed them for his own use, but they were taken from -him by his guards as fast as completed, so that in the end he had -nothing to show for his labors. One night a great grief befell him; -Tasquanto failed to appear at the usual hour, nor did he come during -the night, though Nahma watched and waited for him until morning. He -asked eager questions of the guard who brought his miserable breakfast, -but the man refused to answer, and all that day our lad sat in a -lethargy of despair, careless whether he lived or died. - -The following night was one of furious storm and bitter cold. The north -wind roaring through the bending forest shrieked and howled in savage -glee as it struck the forlorn little outpost of white men. It leaped -down the wide-throated chimneys and scattered their fires. It slammed -shutters and doors, while if any ventured abroad, it blinded and choked -them with stinging volleys of snowdrift. So fierce and deadly was it -that even military discipline came to an end, and all sentries were -permitted to abandon their posts. - -Nahma sat alone in the dark, numbed and nearly perished with the cold, -for he had burned up the last bit of fuel brought him two days earlier -by Tasquanto, and none had been supplied since. In the many voices of -the storm, now shrill and clamorous, then deep and menacing, and again -filled with weird moanings that died in long-drawn sighs, he heard the -spirits of the dead, the Okis of another world, calling to him, and -bidding him share their wild freedom. He knew that he had but to yield -to the drowsiness already overpowering him, and the deadly cold would -speedily release him from all earthly prisons. Perhaps Tasquanto's -spirit was among those now calling; yes, he was sure of it, for he -recognized his friend's voice. "Massasoit," it called, "Massasoit, wake -up! It is I, Tasquanto, thy brother. Wake up and come to me." - -The cry was agonized in its intensity, and after a little even -Nahma's dulling senses recognized that it was uttered by human lips. -At the same time he felt that the storm was beating on his face, and -struggling weakly to his feet, he gained the window through which it -came. Its shutter was wide open, and beyond its bars stood Tasquanto -speaking to him. - -"I thought thee dead, my brother, for I have called many times without -answer," said Tasquanto, as he became aware that his friend was at hand. - -"And I believed thy voice to be that of thy spirit, for I also thought -thee gone to the place of the dead," replied Nahma. "Why have you -remained away from me these many hours?" - -"It is because they drove me from the gate, saying that my hunting -was of no avail, and that I should not longer eat of their stores. But -I could not go, my brother, without word with thee, and now has the -storm-god given me a chance for speaking. If it were not for these bars -we could do more than speak, for those who kept guard have been driven -to shelter, and there is none to hinder us from going away together. -But they may not be broken, and so we must wait until other means are -found for thy release. But fear not that I will desert thee. I have -found a way for passing the wall, and will come to this place whenever -it may be done without notice. In the mean time I will prepare for our -flight. Already have I built a lodge in a safe place beyond the river, -and----" - -Here Tasquanto's words were suddenly interrupted, and the heavy shutter -was slammed to as though by a fierce gust of wind. Then the door was -flung open and the faint gleam of a horn lantern illumined the interior. - -A little earlier on that same evening Chauvin, while talking with one -of his officers concerning Champlain and his unexplained absence, had -been reminded of the young Indian whom the governor had consigned to -his care, but to whom he had not given a thought in many days. Now he -inquired carelessly whether he were alive or dead. - -"I know not," replied the officer, who, following his chief's example, -had not concerned himself about the fate of so insignificant a being as -a captive Indian. - -"And why do you not know?" cried Chauvin, with a sudden burst of -petulant rage. "It is your duty to know, and to be ready with instant -report concerning everything taking place within the walls of Quebec. -Do you think because the governor chooses to absent himself for a while -that no one is left here to maintain his authority? By the saints, -monsieur, I will give you cause to remember that Pierre Chauvin is not -to be trifled with, and that when he asks a question he expects it to -be promptly answered. Go, then, at once, sir, and inform yourself by -personal observation of the condition of this prisoner, or haply you -may find yourself in his place." - -Without daring to reply, the bewildered officer bowed and left the -room. Thus it happened that, accompanied by a soldier whom he had -summoned to attend him, he came to Nahma's prison-house in time to -interrupt the conversation between him and Tasquanto and frighten the -latter into a precipitate retreat. - -Finding, to his satisfaction, that the prisoner was still alive, the -officer demanded of the soldier why, in such weather, he was kept -without fire. - -The soldier replied that it had been left to the other Indian to -provide the guard-house with fuel; whereupon his superior passed out to -him the rating he himself had received from Chauvin. - -"And so, _canaille_, you leave your duties to be performed by a -miserable skulking savage. A pretty state of affairs in a king's -fortress. Bring wood at once, sir, and fire, also fetch something in -the way of food, for this wretch looks like to die of starvation, a -thing that may not be allowed of the governor's own prisoner, even -though he be a heathen." - -So on that night of bitter tempest not only were Nahma's spirits raised -by a new hope, but the horrors of freezing and starvation that had -threatened his life were sensibly mitigated. Two days later came the -first word received from Champlain since his hurried departure for -Tadousac four months earlier. - - - - -CHAPTER XVI - -A DASH FOR LIBERTY - - -The mystery of Champlain's disappearance weighed heavily on the -spirits of the forlorn little garrison left to hold Quebec. He had -been the life and mainstay of the colony, the firm rock upon which it -was founded. Without him there seemed no hope of its continuance or -of relief from their distress. They were convinced that he was dead, -for they knew he would never have left them without at least sending -a message to tell where he had gone. So they mourned him sincerely if -also selfishly, and planned to abandon his settlement at the first -opportunity, if indeed any should offer. - -The great storm cast an added gloom over the garrison, and they were so -unhappy that every man was ready to fly at his neighbor's throat upon -the slightest provocation, when a small band of Indians was reported -to be making a camp near at hand. Instantly every face brightened, -for it was thought that they must have brought provisions to trade for -goods. Thus, when, a little later, one of them approached the fort, he -was given prompt admittance. Being conducted to the presence of the -commandant, he announced that his people were so very hungry that they -had come to the white men to beg a little food from their abundant -stores. At the same time he had brought a message from the great white -chief, for which he was entitled to a reward. - -With this the Indian produced a folded paper, greasy and grimed with -dirt, which he handed to Chauvin. - -As the latter unfolded it he uttered an exclamation, for it contained a -note written in French and signed "Champlain." Its condition rendered -it difficult to decipher, but as the reader gradually mastered its -contents his face darkened, until suddenly he sprang up, seized a -stick, and began furiously to belabor the astonished savage, who had -been waiting in smiling expectancy for his reward. With a howl of -pained surprise, he leaped back and rushed from the building with the -enraged commandant in hot pursuit. - -Not until the terrified native had escaped from the fort and -disappeared in the forest did Chauvin give over his chase. Then, to the -amazement of his men, he ordered a cannon to be loaded and fired in -the direction taken by the object of his wrath. Although the crashing -ball did no damage, it, and the roar of the gun bursting upon the -winter stillness, so frightened the recently arrived Indians that they -instantly abandoned their partially constructed camp and fled in hot -haste from that hostile neighborhood. - -Refusing to answer questions, and so leaving the curiosity of his men -unsatisfied, Chauvin returned to his quarters, and lifting Champlain's -note from the floor where he had flung it, read it for the second time -with gritting teeth and bitter maledictions. It was dated four months -earlier, and read as follows: - - - "MY GOOD FRIEND PIERRE: - - "I am just arrived at Tadousac and find the ship about to sail. I - also find it to be of the last importance that one of us should - return in her to France. Had I known this two days earlier, or - could I get word to you in season, the mission would devolve upon - you, since I am loath to leave at this time. As it happens, I - myself must go; but will return in earliest spring. So, my friend, - until then everything is left to you. Husband carefully your - provisions, keep up the spirits of your men, and maintain friendly - relations with the natives. I forward this by a messenger, whom you - will suitably reward for its prompt delivery. Regretting that we - may not exchange duties, for I would gladly remain, I sign myself, - as ever, - - "Thy friend, - "CHAMPLAIN." - - -"Death and furies!" cried Chauvin, again flinging the note to the floor -and grinding it beneath his heel. "To think that while we have mourned -him as dead he has been all the time comfortably in France. Also that -I might have gone in his stead if only he could have got word to me in -time. Ten thousand thunders! It would enrage a saint! Maintain friendly -relations with the natives, forsooth! I would I could blow them all to -eternity. Suitably reward that rascal messenger! Burning at the stake -would be too good for him. And, heavens! all this time we have been -keeping one of the scoundrels in luxurious idleness, gorging him with -food robbed from our own bellies, providing him with fire and lodging -to gratify a whim of the governor's, doubtless long since forgotten. -But not another minute shall he thus impose upon us. He shall go, and -that with such speed as will amaze him." - -With this the angry commandant again descended to the court, summoned -all the able-bodied men of the garrison, and bade them form a double -line outside the guard-house door, after first providing themselves -with cudgels. "The red whelp inside," he said, "has without recompense -devoured our substance long enough. Now, therefore, I propose to send -him forth bearing tokens of our regard that may not be forgotten in -haste. Watch sharply, then, and remember that any man failing to deal -him at least one blow shall go without his supper this night. Are you -ready? It is well!" - -Thus saying, Chauvin unlocked the guard-house door and flung it open -preparatory to stepping inside and driving out with blows its solitary -occupant. The next moment he was hurled sprawling to the ground, and a -slight, half-naked figure, animated by desperation, was darting with -such speed between the lines of unprepared soldiers that some failed -even to go through the motions of striking at him, while others wasted -their blows on the empty air. Uttering yells of delight at the novel -nature of this entertainment, they ran after him; but they might as -well have pursued a fleeting shadow. Before they could head him off he -had sped through the open gate and was gone. - -After Tasquanto's visit Nahma's shutter had been nailed up, so that -he no longer had even the poor consolation of gazing out on the blank -wall of palisades. Nor could he employ his hands, for he was now in -darkness, save for such faint gleams as filtered down his chimney. -Under these conditions he believed that he might speedily die, and -planned for one last effort at escape before his waning strength should -turn to utter weakness. On that very day he had determined that when -next his prison door was opened it should never again close on his -living body. So he sat watching it with feverish impatience. - -The roar of Chauvin's vengeful cannon startled him and at the same time -gave him a vague hope of some unusual happening that might result in -his favor. So he became keenly alert, and was not taken by surprise -when, without previous warning, the door of the guard-house was flung -open. Dropping from his shoulders the blanket which alone had saved -him from freezing, the youth sprang forward, reckless of consequences, -and a minute later, without an idea of how the miracle had been -accomplished, found himself outside the fort and speeding towards -the icebound river. So blinded were his eyes by the unaccustomed -light and glare of snow that until now he had seen nothing save the -figure that had opened his door, and his movements had been guided by -instinct rather than knowledge. The single fact indelibly impressed -upon his brain was that Tasquanto waited somewhere beyond the river. -Consequently that was the one direction for him to take, and he would -doubtless have plunged into its waters, had they been free, as readily -as he now leaped upon its snow-covered surface. - -So long as he was within sight of the fort and within range of its guns -his strength lasted, and he sped forward with the same fleetness that -had formerly aroused the wonder of his Iroquois friends. Thus he gained -the middle of the river, and climbed a rugged ridge of hummocks and -huge ice-blocks upheaved during the final struggle of rebellious waters -against the mighty forces of the frost-king. - -On the farther side of this our poor lad faltered, staggered, and -then sank with a groan. The nervous strength that had borne him thus -far was exhausted, and in this place of temporary safety it yielded -to the weakness of his long imprisonment. He had made a splendid dash -for liberty, but now he had reached the limit of his powers, and must -either be recaptured within a short space or die of the bitter cold. -Even as he lay with closed eyes gasping for breath he felt its numbing -clutch, and knew that very shortly he would be powerless against it. -But it did not matter. He would at least die in possession of the -freedom for which he had longed, and, after all, what had he to live -for? He was friendless, homeless, and without even a people whom he -might call his own. No tribe claimed him, there was no lodge within -which he had the right of shelter. It would be much better in the land -of spirits, for there his own would know him as he would know them. -The trail to it was easy and short, also it was a very pleasant path, -bright with sunshine and gay with flowers. There was music of singing -birds, and already were the voices of his own people calling to him. -"Massasoit!" they cried, "Massasoit!" Then they named him brother and -bade him open his eyes that he might see them. So he opened his eyes -and gazed into the anxious face of Tasquanto, who knelt beside him -rubbing vigorously at his limbs and slapping him smartly to restore -circulation in the numbing body. - -He smiled happily at sight of Nahma's unclosed eyes, but did not for -an instant desist from his rubbings and slappings until the other at -length sat up, and then unsteadily regained his feet. - -"Now, my brother," said Tasquanto, taking a robe of skins from his own -shoulders as he spoke and throwing it about Nahma, "together must we -reach the lodge I have prepared, for I will never return to it alone. -The trail is long and hard, but it must be overcome or we shall perish -together." - -So the journey was begun, Nahma at first leaning heavily on his -comrade's supporting arm, but gaining new strength with each step. -As he had taken neither nourishment nor stimulant, this was wholly -owing to the effect upon his spirits of renewed hope and a cheery -companionship. As they walked Tasquanto told him how, ever since the -storm, his attempts at communication had been frustrated, how in the -mean time he had increased the comforts of his hidden lodge, how at -sound of Chauvin's cannon he had hastened towards the fort to learn -the cause of the firing, and of the overwhelming joy with which he -had discovered Nahma as the latter topped the ice-ridge in the middle -of the river. Then Nahma related as well as he could the details of -his wonderful escape from the fort, and by the time his narrative was -ended they were come to the rude lodge that Tasquanto had built in -anticipation of just such a need as had now arisen. - - - - -CHAPTER XVII - -A DEATH-DEALING THUNDER-STICK - - -Tasquanto's lodge was snugly hidden in a dense growth of heavy timber -near the place where the Chaudière flows into the St. Lawrence. It was -merely a frame of poles covered so thickly with branches of fragrant -spruce and balsam that it presented the appearance of a green mound -rising above the surrounding snow. Its walls were so thick as to be -almost wind-proof, and in the middle of its earthen floor was a small -circle of stones that formed a rude fireplace. In this only the dryest -of wood was burned, and the little smoke that resulted escaped through -an aperture left in the roof. On two sides were elastic beds of spruce -boughs covered deep with flat hemlock branches and balsam tips. The -very air of the place was a tonic, and the escaped captive, fresh from -the foulness of his prison, drew in eager breaths of its life-giving -sweetness as he sank wearily, but happily, down on the nearest pile of -boughs. - -As he lay there gazing about the rude shelter with an air of perfect -content he uttered frequent exclamations of amazement, for Tasquanto -was drawing from various hiding-places an array of treasures such as -no Indian of Nahma's acquaintance had ever before possessed: a copper -kettle, a steel hatchet, two knives, a blanket, several glass bottles, -and a fragment of mirror. Then, with conscious pride, but also with -evident trepidation, he produced the most wonderful trophy of all, a -rusty musket, one of the awful thunder-sticks that rendered the white -man all-powerful. - -During the night of the great storm the entire garrison of Quebec -had gathered for warmth in the hall of the commandant's house, and -Tasquanto had taken advantage of this to make a foray into the deserted -barracks with the above result. He had brought away the musket with -fear and trembling, dreading lest it might explode and kill him at any -moment. Even now he handled it cautiously, while Nahma could not for -some time be persuaded to touch it. So it was laid carefully down, and -he was permitted to feast his eyes on the marvel while Tasquanto busied -himself in preparing a feast of more substantial character. - -He had been so fortunate as to discover the winter den of a bear, which -he had also succeeded in killing, so that now he could offer his guest -not only the warmth of a shaggy robe but an abundance of meat. Instead -of half-burning and half-cooking a chunk of this on the coals, as was -the custom of his people, he displayed a rudiment of civilization by -cutting it up into small bits and stewing them in his copper kettle. - -After the youths had eaten heartily of this meal, which, simple as it -was, proved more satisfactory to Nahma than the very best of those -given him in Quebec, they spent several hours in discussing their -plans for the future and in examining Tasquanto's treasures. Having -overcome his awe of the thunder-stick sufficiently to take it in his -hands, Nahma became anxious to test its powers. He had seen Champlain -discharge his musket, and knew that it was done through the agency of -a lighted slow-match applied to the priming-pan. His knowledge of the -firing of a gun was thus far in advance of Tasquanto's, who, having -never witnessed the operation at close range, had no idea of how it was -accomplished. But he was quite willing to learn, and so it was agreed -that on the following morning Nahma should give the owner of the musket -his first lesson in its use. - -Both of them were so excited over the prospect of experimenting for -their own benefit with the deadly thunder of the white man that they -lay awake most of the night discussing their proposed adventure; and, -as a consequence, slept much later than they had intended on the -following morning. The day was well advanced, therefore, when the two -lads, after preparing and eating another hearty meal, stepped outside -to test their newly acquired weapon. It was carried by Nahma, who, -nervous with excitement, still presented a bold front, while, under his -direction, Tasquanto fetched a blazing brand from the fire. - -Resting the barrel of his piece across the trunk of a prostrate tree -and holding its stock at arm's length, Nahma bade his companion apply -fire to the pan. With much trepidation and a strong desire to clap -both hands to his ears, Tasquanto valiantly did as he was bidden, but -without result. Again and again did he apply the glowing coal, but -still the gun refused to obey the wishes of its inexperienced owners. - -"It will only speak and deal out its death-medicine at the command of -white men," said Tasquanto, disconsolately. - -"Not so," replied Nahma, "for once I saw it obey the will of a Huron -warrior. But I think I know what is needed. It must be turned over so -that the flame may rise to it. Also in this weather the thunder-stick -is so cold that it will take much fire to warm it into action. Make, -therefore, a hot blaze, and I am assured that something will happen." - -So Nahma turned the gun, and, forgetting to remain at arm's length, -bent anxiously over the refractory piece, while Tasquanto built a -regular fire beneath it. Of a sudden the musket went off with a -tremendous report that roused the woodland echoes for miles. Also it -sprang savagely backward, bowling over both Nahma and Tasquanto as -though they had been ninepins. But the most astounding result of the -discharge was a series of shrieks and yells that resounded through the -forest as though it were peopled by a pack of demons. At the same time -a number of leaping figures dashed from an extensive thicket at which -the gun had been inadvertently pointed and fled as though for their -lives. Something had assuredly happened. - -As our bewildered lads cautiously lifted their heads to learn the -extent of the damage done by the fearful force they had so recklessly -let loose, each was thankful to see that the other was still alive. -Next they glanced at the musket. It lay half buried in the snow, -looking as innocent and harmless as a stick of wood; but they knew -of what terrible things it was capable, and would hereafter be very -careful how they allowed it to come into contact with fire. They were -convinced that in some unexplained manner it could absorb flame until -it had accumulated a certain quantity and could then eject this with -deadly effect. - -Being reassured concerning their own condition and the present -harmlessness of the musket, they next bethought themselves of the -dreadful cries that had seemed to mingle with the report, and they -agreed that these must have been uttered by the Okis, or spirits of -the forest, in protest against such a rude disturbance of its winter -quiet. As they stiffly picked themselves up, Nahma declared his -intention of visiting the thicket towards which the thunder-stick had -been pointed, to see whether he could discover where its lightnings had -struck. Tasquanto tried to dissuade him, declaring that the place must -be the abode of Okis; but to this Nahma answered that if so they were -certainly frightened away for the present, which would therefore be the -best time to visit their haunts. - -So the two cautiously made their way in that direction, and had not -gone more than fifty paces when they came upon a sight almost as -startling as had been the discharge of the musket. It was the dead -body of a Huron warrior not yet cold. His life's blood still trickled -from a jagged wound in the breast and crimsoned the snow on which he -had fallen. On all sides of him were other signs that told as plainly -as spoken words how narrowly our lads had escaped falling into the -hands of a merciless foe. There were marks of a cautious approach -along the trail they themselves had made the day before, of the halt -for observation when the intended victims were discovered, and of the -panic-stricken flight that followed the unexpected musket-fire by which -one of their number had been so suddenly killed. - -"The thunder-stick is indeed a god," remarked Nahma. "It can discover -and kill the enemies of those to whom it is friendly even before they -have knowledge of approaching danger." - -"Yes," replied Tasquanto, as he coolly scalped the dead Huron; "with -it to fight on our side we are become as sagamores, terrible and -all-powerful. I will take it to my own people, and when it shall lead -them in battle who will be able to stand before them? Even the white -men, whom many still think to be gods, are now no stronger than we. Oh, -my friend! let us shout for joy, since in all the world there is no man -more powerful than are Massasoit and Tasquanto, his brother." - -When the exultant young warriors returned to camp, bearing with them -the trophies of their exploit, they also carried, very reverently, -the weapon which they termed a "thunder-god," and which had rendered -them such notable service. Then, while Nahma set to work on a pair -of snow-shoes, Tasquanto, who had seen the French soldiers oil and -burnish their guns, coated his with bear's grease, removed its -smoke-stains, and rubbed its barrel until it shone. When he had done -for it everything that his limited knowledge prescribed, he placed -it in a corner where they could constantly admire it, and began the -construction of a rude toboggan of bark. - -By the time this was completed Nahma's snow-shoes were also ready -for service, and the fugitives were prepared to start on their long -southward journey. For a beginning of this they made their way slowly -up to the head-waters of the Chaudière, crossed a rugged divide to -those of the Penobscot, and there established a permanent camp. From -this they set lines of traps that yielded a rich reward in the way of -pelts, and before spring opened they got out the frame of a canoe. As -soon as sap began to run in the birch-trees they secured enough bark to -cover it, and by the time the river opened they were prepared to float -with its current to the country of Tasquanto's people. - -Their voyage down the swift-rushing river was filled with adventures -and with hair-breadth escapes. Not only were they in almost constant -danger from foaming rapids and roaring waterfalls, but only unceasing -vigilance and an occasional display of their musket saved them from -death or capture by the hostile tribes through whose territory they -passed. - -At length they carried around the last cataract and entered upon the -long, broad reaches by which the river flowed in dignified majesty to -the sea. This was Tasquanto's country, and now they might watch for the -villages in which he would be assured a friendly welcome. - -Finally one was sighted, and Nahma proposed that, after the custom -of white men on returning from victorious expeditions, they should -discharge their thunder-stick. Nothing loath to add to his own -importance by such an announcement of their coming, Tasquanto promptly -assented to this proposition. So they landed a few hundred yards above -the village and made preparations for the second discharge of their -formidable weapon. - - - - -CHAPTER XVIII - -KIDNAPPED - - -Being by this time, as they fondly imagined, thoroughly acquainted -with the white man's thunder-stick and with all details of the process -necessary to render it effective, our young Indians were determined -to leave undone nothing that might contribute to the complete success -of their proposed salute. To begin with, the musket must be pointed -away from the village, and they themselves must keep at a respectful -distance while it was accumulating its fiery energy. Also, to produce -an extraordinary volume of sound, the flame by which the thunder-stick -was fed must be big and hot. They knew this, because on the occasion of -their previous experiment they had, with the aid of a flame, produced -a much louder noise than that made by the white man's slow-matches. -Consequently they argued that the greater the flame the louder the -report. - -At the same time they were willing to acknowledge that slow-matches -were excellent things to have under certain conditions, when, for -instance, one was so closely beset that he wished to fire with great -rapidity, even as many as two or three shots in the course of an hour. -So they were determined to obtain one at the very first opportunity, -and imagined that thus provided their shooting equipment would be -complete. - -But a blaze would be much better for their present purpose, and they -would take care that it was big enough to produce an astonishing -result. So carefully did they make their preparations that while -Tasquanto collected dry wood for the fire, Nahma cut a couple of forked -sticks on which to rest the musket and drove them solidly into the -ground. To these he lashed the gun until it resembled a victim about -to be burned at the stake. He did not, of course, forget to place it -upside down, so that its firing-pan might receive full benefit of the -upleaping flames. Then wood was piled beneath it until it really looked -as though they were intent upon burning the gun instead of being merely -desirous of discharging it. - -While they were making these preparations several of the villagers, -noticing the presence of strangers, came out to discover their -business. To these Tasquanto made the peace sign, and at the same time -warned them not to come too close. So they halted and watched with -curiosity the mysterious proceedings of the strangers. - -At length all was in readiness, and Tasquanto, as principal owner -of the thunder-stick, claimed the privilege of setting fire to the -inflammable structure he had reared beneath it. As the brisk blaze shot -upward he ran back and joined Nahma at a safe distance. On the opposite -side were the village Indians, filled with uneasy expectancy mingled -with awe; for they imagined they were witnessing some impressive -religious ceremony. - -The flames mounted higher and higher until they completely enveloped -the devoted musket, and Tasquanto, so excited as to be unconscious -of the act, clapped his hands to his ears to deaden the sound of the -thunderous report that he momentarily expected. But it did not come. -The wooden stock of the gun began to smoke, and then burst into a -blaze. Being very dry and also saturated with oil, it was speedily -consumed. At the same time the lashings burned through, and the red-hot -barrel, already bent out of shape, fell into the glowing coals. - -As though drawn by an irresistible fascination, Tasquanto, with hands -still held to his ears, had moved nearer step by step, gazing with -incredulous eyes at this destruction of the thing he had regarded as a -god, loud-voiced and invincible. The puzzled spectators on the other -side also cautiously approached closer. - -Suddenly Tasquanto, seeming to awake as from a dream, started down the -hill-side towards the canoe, and Nahma followed him. Both knew why they -fled. For some unexplained reason their expected triumph had resulted -in a dismal failure. This had laid them open to the ridicule that -an Indian finds especially hard to bear, and they had no wish to be -questioned concerning what had just taken place. - -The spectators of their recent remarkable performance, curious to -see what they would do next, followed them so closely that, in order -to escape, our lads were forced to run. Gaining their canoe, they -shoved it off and leaped in as the foremost of their pursuers reached -the water's edge. Without heeding the many invitations to return that -quickly became threatening commands, Nahma and Tasquanto plied their -paddles with such diligence that they were quickly beyond arrow range; -and, speeding past the village without a pause, they were soon lost -to sight of its puzzled inhabitants. Not until they were some miles -farther down the river was a word exchanged between the young men. -Then, as Nahma drew in his paddle and paused for breath, he remarked,-- - -"The thunder-stick of the white man is bad medicine for bow-and-arrow -people." - -"Yes," replied Tasquanto, mournfully, "it seems that we have much to -learn." - -While in camp that night discussing the humiliating events of the day -they were joined by a solitary hunter who was on his way up the river. -After a guarded interchange of questions and answers, during which -neither party learned anything definite concerning the other, the -stranger told them of certain white men who were trading at the mouth -of the Penobscot, and advised them to carry their furs to that market. - -"Are they Française?" asked Nahma, who was determined never again to -fall within the power of those who had so cruelly imprisoned him. - -"No," was the reply, "they are of a people who call themselves -'Yengeese' and who make war on the white-coats." - -"Have they thunder-sticks?" asked Tasquanto. - -"In plenty." - -"Then let us go to them. If we accomplish nothing else we may learn the -white man's secret, and so shall our shame be wiped out." - -On the following day, therefore, a few hours carried our lads to where -the river broadened into a bay dotted with islands. As their little -craft was lifted on the first great swells that came rolling in from -the open sea, Nahma uttered an exclamation and pointed eagerly. - -"Look!" he cried. "What is it? Was ever such a thing seen in the world -before?" - -Tasquanto glanced in the direction indicated and laughed. Truly, the -sight was remarkable, and one still rare to those waters; but he had -already seen one so similar in the St. Lawrence that he could now speak -with the authority of superior knowledge. - -"It is the winged canoe of the white man," he said. "In it he comes up -out of the great salt waters and after a little flies back again to his -own place. Knew you not that his whiteness is caused by the washing of -the waters in which he lives?" - -"No," replied Nahma, doubtfully. "Nor did I know that any canoe could -be so vast. It even has trees growing from it." - -"Yes," admitted the other, to whom this phenomenon was also a puzzle. -"But they be not trees that bear fruit, nor even leaves, though they -have branches and vines. On them the canoe spreads its wings, which are -white like the pinions of wembezee" (the swan). - -"Let us go closer that we may see these things," said Nahma, to whom -the appearance of that little English trading-ship was as wonderful as -had been his first view of Quebec. - -So they approached slowly and cautiously, feasting their eyes on the -marvel as they went, and directing each other's attention to a myriad -of details. Finally they were within hailing distance, and a man -standing on the ship's towering poop-deck beckoned for them to come on -board. - -Tasquanto, who knew the etiquette of such occasions, held up a -beaver-skin, as much as to say "Will you trade?" - -For reply the white man displayed some trinkets that glittered in the -sunlight, thereby intimating his willingness to transact business. At -the same time he turned to one who stood close at hand and said,-- - -"They be two young bucks, without old men, women, or children. Nor is -there another native in sight. It is therefore the best chance by far -that has offered for filling Sir Ferdinando's order. 'Twenty pounds -will I give thee, Dermer, for a native youth of intelligence delivered -here at Plymouth in good condition.' Those were his very words, and it -will be well to have two; for if one dies on the passage, as the cattle -are so apt to do, then will the other make good the loss. If both -survive, so much the better, since we can readily dispose of the extra -one. We must entice them on board, therefore, and the instant they -set foot on deck do thou see to it that they are secured. Be careful, -however, that they suffer no injury, for I would get them across in -good condition if possible." - -"Aye, aye, sir," answered the other, who was mate of the ship. "If you -can toll 'em on board I'll handle them as they were unweaned lambs. -I'll warrant you they won't escape if once I get a grip on them, -slippery devils though they be." - -When the canoe ran alongside the ship a few trinkets were tossed into -it as presents and in token of good-will. Then a ladder of rope was -lowered, and by signs our lads were invited to come on board. - -They looked at each other doubtfully. "Is it safe to trust these white -men?" asked Nahma. - -"To discover the secret of the thunder-sticks, and perhaps to obtain -one in exchange for our furs, is worth a risk," replied Tasquanto. As -he spoke he glanced longingly up to where the ship's captain, with a -leer on his face that passed for a reassuring smile, tempted them by a -lavish display of trade goods. - -"Truly, it would be worth much," hesitated Nahma. "At the same time, -having once escaped from a prison, I have no desire to see the inside -of another." - -"Then stay thou here while I go," said Tasquanto, whose desire to wipe -out his recent humiliation was so great as to overcome his prudence. -"The secret of the thunder-stick I must have even though it cost me my -life." - -"Does my brother think so meanly of me as to believe that I would let -him face a danger alone while I remained in safety?" inquired Nahma, -reproachfully. "Let him go and I will follow close at his heels; for -whatever happens to one of us must happen to both." - -So the canoe was made fast, the bundle of furs was attached to a line -let down for it, and Tasquanto began to climb the swaying ladder while -Nahma steadied it from below. As the former disappeared over the ship's -side the son of Longfeather followed swiftly after him. Topping the -high bulwarks, he glanced anxiously down in search of his comrade, but -Tasquanto was not to be seen. A suspicion of foul play darted into his -mind, but too late for him to act upon it, for at the same instant he -was seized by two pair of brawny hands and dragged inboard. - -Half an hour later the ship under full canvas was speeding merrily -down the bay with her jubilant crew bawling out the chorus of a -homeward-bound chantey. - - - - -CHAPTER XIX - -SOLD AS A SLAVE - - -The distress and terror of our poor lads when they found themselves -flung into the horrible darkness of the ship's hold with its hatch -closed above them would have been pitiful had there been any witnesses. -But there was none, and for many weary hours they seemed to have been -imprisoned in mere wantonness only to be forgotten as soon as the -treacherous act had been accomplished. Their sole comfort was that -they were together; for, on being dropped into the hold, Nahma found -Tasquanto, stunned by the magnitude of his misfortune, awaiting him. - -For a time the two remained speechless, only holding to each other, -listening, and fearfully awaiting what next might happen. Although they -could see nothing there was much to hear, for the anchor was being hove -up, sails loosed and sheeted home, canvas was slatting, yards were -creaking, and all to the accompaniment of much hoarse shouting and a -continual tramping of heavy feet. But none of these sounds conveyed -to our captives the slightest idea of what was taking place. After a -while the ship began to heel until they believed her to be capsizing, -and that their last hour had come. Also they heard a sound of rushing -waters. A little later both were so utterly prostrated by sea-sickness -that whatever might happen no longer concerned them. - -In this wretched plight they lay for what seemed like many days, but in -reality only until the middle of the next forenoon, when, of a sudden, -the hatch above them was removed and they were blinded by the flood -of light that followed. Then men came to them and they were driven on -deck, where, dazed and weak with illness, they staggered from side to -side with the motion of the ship. Their pitiable appearance was greeted -by shouts of coarse mirth from the crew, who found in it a vastly -entertaining spectacle. - -The captives were offered food, but refused it with loathing, though -they drank eagerly from a bucket of water placed beside them as -they sat on deck at the foremast's foot. After a while Nahma became -sufficiently revived by the fresh air to gaze about him with somewhat -of interest in his strange surroundings. Everything was marvellous and -incomprehensible. Even the bearded sailors in petticoats and pigtails, -which latter he took to be scalp-locks, were entirely different from -the French, who, until now, were the only white men he had known. Nor -could he comprehend a word of the barbarous language in which they -conversed. When he was tired of looking at them he began to wonder in -which direction lay the land, and to turn over in his mind a plan for -making a quick rush to the ship's side, leaping overboard, and swimming -to shore. - -Before broaching this scheme to his comrade Nahma decided to get his -bearings. So he gained his feet and mounted a scuttle-butt, by which -his eyes were lifted above the level of the high bulwarks. To his -consternation there was no land in sight. Not so much as a tree nor a -blue hill-top could he discover in any direction. His unaccustomed -eyes could not even distinguish the line of the horizon dividing a gray -sky from the immensity of gray waters that stretched away on all sides. -The bewildering sight filled him with a dread greater than any he had -ever known, and he slipped back to his place beside Tasquanto, utterly -hopeless. - -"Whether we be going up or down I know not," he said to the latter; -"but certain it is that we now float among the clouds, with no prospect -of ever again returning to the earth on which dwell people after our -own kind. Already are we become Okis." - -"Then is it a most unhappy condition," answered Tasquanto, "and the -medicine-men are liars." - -After a few hours on deck our lads were again driven into the darkness -and foulness of the hold; but on every pleasant day thereafter for -weeks was the process of bringing them on deck for an airing repeated. -In times of storm they were kept below, with their sufferings -immeasurably increased by sickness, by the violent pitching of the -ship, by lack of food and water, and by terrors of the creakings and -groanings that filled the surrounding blackness. - -For more than a month did they thus suffer, hopeless of ever again -sighting land or of any relief from their unhappy situation. Then, to -Nahma at least, came the worst of all. One day, while they were on -deck, he suddenly lifted his head and sniffed the air. - -"It is a breath of earth," he whispered, as though fearful of uttering -the glad news aloud. "I can smell it. Oh, my brother! to once more gain -the freedom of a forest would be a happiness exceeding any other. Let -us be ready on the morrow when we are again brought into the light. It -may be that we shall be near enough to swim to the land. Once within -cover of the forest we would never again look upon the face of a white -man." - -About this time they were sent below, but that faint scent of land not -yet distinguished by any other on the ship had infused them with a new -hope, and for hours they talked of what might be done on the morrow. - -In the mean time their ship was so near the English coast that -twenty-four hours later she lay at anchor in the harbor of Plymouth and -her small boat was ready to go ashore. - -"Fetch me the heathen desired by Sir Ferdinando," ordered Captain -Dermer. - -"Which one, sir?" - -"Either will do. Call them up and take the first that shows a head. -Drive the other back, and keep him below until my return." - -"Aye, aye, sir." - -So the hatch was partially removed, and the signal for which our lads -had waited so impatiently was given. Tasquanto was first to answer it -and gain the deck. Nahma followed closely, but was met by a blow that -tumbled him back into the hold. Then the hatch was replaced, and he was -once more confronted by the horrors of solitary confinement. - -For a time he continued to hope that he would be allowed on deck, or -that his comrade would be restored to him; but, as the weary hours -dragged slowly by without either of these things happening, these hopes -grew fainter and fainter until finally they vanished. - -When food and water were brought to him, he drank of the latter but -refused to eat, although the food was fresh meat, the first he had seen -since the dreadful day when he had been enticed aboard the ship. It was -another proof that they were once more near land. Perhaps even now the -forest for which he longed was close at hand, and perhaps people of his -own race were come off to trade. Perhaps Tasquanto, who had picked up -a number of English words, was acting as interpreter for them. In that -case he would doubtless find a chance for escape, though even if he -should, Nahma was certain that he would not make use of it. Were they -not brothers, sworn to share each other's fortunes, good or ill, to the -end? No! Tasquanto would never desert him; but sooner or later, if he -were still alive, would come again to him. Of this our lad was certain. - -After a while the lonely prisoner fell asleep, and when he next awoke -the ship was again in motion. He felt about for his companion, but -could not find him; he called aloud, but got no answer. Then he knew -that he was indeed alone in the world and that something terrible must -have happened to Tasquanto. When next he was allowed on deck he looked -eagerly for his friend, and, seeing nothing of him, relapsed into a -condition of apathy. He no longer cared what happened, and refused to -eat the food offered him. - -"Won't eat, eh?" growled Captain Dermer, on learning of this state of -affairs. "We'll see about that." - -The grizzled old mariner's method of seeing about things was so -effective that the refractory young Indian shortly found himself -pinned to the deck by two sailors. A third pinched his nose, and when -he opened his mouth for breath poured in hot soup that the victim was -obliged to swallow to keep from choking. So he was fed by force, and -his strength was sustained until the ship once more came to anchor. - -As usual, Nahma was confined below when this happened, and when he was -next brought on deck he was given no time to look about him before -being seized, stripped of the foul garments that he had worn during -the voyage, and scrubbed from head to foot, roughly but thoroughly. -Then he was provided with a new suit of buckskin that had been acquired -by trade from the Abenakis. He was also given colors and a mirror and -ordered to paint his face. Showing symptoms of disobedience, he was -made to understand that one of the crew would do it for him; and, -rather than be thus disfigured, he reluctantly complied. After he had -satisfactorily decorated himself, greatly to the amusement of the crew, -he was left to his own devices and allowed to wander about the deck as -he pleased. - -Gaining a position where he could see beyond the ship's side, he was -as amazed and bewildered as though he had been transported to another -planet, for the vessel had ascended the Thames, and his outlook was -upon London. - -Not a tree was to be seen, not a green thing, only houses, until it -seemed as though the whole world must be covered with them. Even the -river disappeared beneath houses built in a double row on a bridge that -spanned it a short distance away. The ship was moored beside a great -dingy building, from and into which men came and went as thickly as -bees swarming about a hollow tree in his native woods. - -Although no such clouds of smoke hung above London then as infold it -to-day, there was enough to impress our young savage with the belief -that a forest fire must be raging just beyond the buildings that -obstructed his view. This belief was strengthened by the ceaseless roar -of the city, that, to him, held the same elements of terror as the -awful voice of a wide-spread conflagration. - -If Tasquanto were only with him that they might discuss these things. -But, alas! he was alone, as unfitted for a life-struggle amid those -heretofore undreamed-of surroundings as a newborn babe, and, like it, -unprovided with a language understandable by those about him. Set down -in the heart of a primeval forest he would have been perfectly at home; -but face to face with this hideous wilderness of human construction he -was appalled at his own insignificance and utter helplessness. - -As he turned away terror-stricken he noticed that several persons -gathered about Captain Dermer were regarding him curiously. One of -them, a young man of about Nahma's own age, apparently touched by the -hopeless expression on our lad's painted face, stepped towards him with -outstretched hand. - -"Winslow," he said, pointing to himself. - -"Massasoit," answered the other, promptly, and indicating his own -person. - -Although he could not understand the newcomer's words he appreciated -the hearty grip of his hand, and, gazing into his honest eyes, felt -that here was one who might become a friend. - -"What are you going to do with him?" inquired Winslow, stepping back -beside Captain Dermer. - -"Let him go when he can pay his passage-money, or turn him over to the -first person who will pay it for him," was the reply. - -"What is the sum?" - -"Twenty pounds, no more nor less." - -"I have not that amount with me, but if you will give me a day or two I -think I can get it. Will you keep him until I come again?" - -"Unless some other turns up in the mean time equally desirous of -accommodating him." - -"Captain, I vill pay the money on the spot," exclaimed a voice, -and wheeling about, Winslow saw a man of sporty aspect arrayed in -tawdry imitation of a gentleman, and of a decidedly Hebraic cast of -countenance. He was extending a handful of gold pieces, which Captain -Dermer took and counted. - -"It is a trade," he said. "Take him and may luck go with you." - -Thus was sold, in the city of London, a free-born native American; and -he was but one of many New World people who shared a similar fate both -before and afterwards. - - - - -CHAPTER XX - -ONE FRIENDLY FACE - - -The man who on pretence of paying Nahma's passage-money had in reality -bought him was a well-known London fur-dealer, who had visited the -ship to appraise her cargo. The young fellow who had extended to our -forlorn lad the hand of friendship, and who, but for lack of ready -means, would have redeemed him from a threatened slavery, was a Mr. -Edward Winslow. He was the youngest son of a well-to-do Devon family, -who had taken a degree at Oxford and was now reading law in the Temple. -He was intensely interested in America and everything pertaining to it. -Thus, on hearing that a ship just arrived from the New World was in the -Thames, he hastened to board her, that he might converse with those who -had so recently trod the shores he longed to visit. Nahma was the first -American he had ever seen, and he regarded him with a lively curiosity -that was changed to pity at sight of his hopeless face. Now he turned -fiercely on the Jew who by payment of a paltry sum of money had become -master of the young stranger's fate. - -"What do you intend to do with him?" he asked. - -"Vat vould you have done mit him yourself had your purse been as full -as your stomach?" asked the other, impudently. - -"I would have found for him a home in which he might be taught -Christianity and civilization, and then I would have taken the first -opportunity for sending him back to his own land." - -"Mayhap those be the very things I also vould do by the young heathen; -who knows?" replied the furrier, with a leer. "At any rate, I have -charge of him now, and vill take him at once to my happy home. You may -set him ashore for me, captain." - -"Not I," responded Captain Dermer. "I have no longer aught to do with -him. Take him ashore yourself." - -Thus confronted with his new responsibility, the man approached Nahma -and, seizing him roughly by an arm, said, "Come mit me, heathen." - -With a quick motion the young Indian wrenched himself free and faced -his new master with so fierce a look that the latter involuntarily -quailed beneath it and stepped back. - -"Ah!" he snarled, "that's your game, is it? Ve'll see who comes out -best." - -With this he called to some men of his employ who were hoisting out -bales of furs and bade them come to him, bringing a stout cord. - -"Hold!" cried Winslow, stepping beside the young Indian. "See you not -that he is desperate, and that if you try to bind him there will be -bloodshed? He will surely kill you, if he dies for it the next moment. -Leave him to me and I will guarantee to take him where you may desire, -only I give you warning to treat him decently and without violence." - -Thus saying the speaker held out his hand to Nahma, and by signs -intimated that he was to accompany him. - -By instinct the young American had recognized this youth as a friend, -and now he unhesitatingly left the ship in his company. - -As a mob would have been attracted by the appearance of an American -Indian in the crowded streets, a covered cart belonging to the furrier -was procured, and in it our lad was driven to a rear entrance of his -master's shop, which fronted on a fashionable thoroughfare, while the -others reached the same place on foot. - -During that bewildering ride Nahma sat with stolid face but with keen -eyes, taking in all the marvellous details of his surroundings. Next to -the throngs of people hurrying to and fro along the narrow, crooked, -and ill-paved streets, the appearance of horses most impressed him, for -never had he seen beasts at once so large and so completely under the -control of man. - -No word passed between Winslow and the furrier until their destination -was reached. Then the latter asked, sneeringly,-- - -"Now, me lud, vat vill your 'ighness do next?" - -"I will go inside and see him disposed," replied the young man, calmly. - -"Oh, vell, come in and view the royal apartments," said the other, -willing to have Winslow continue his responsibility until the new -acquisition was safely housed. - -So the young Indian was taken from the cart and led into the shop, -causing a buzz of excitement among the few who saw him climbing a -narrow back stairway. He was finally guided to a small chamber directly -beneath the roof and lighted by a single window that could not be -opened. Had it not been for Winslow's reassuring presence, Nahma would -have refused to ascend those stairs, which, being the first he had ever -encountered, filled him with dismay. - -After Winslow had seen the stranger in whom he took so great an -interest thus safely placed for the present and the furrier had locked -the door on his captive, the two descended again to the shop. - -"What will you now do with him?" asked the former. - -"It may be I vill train him to my business and send him out to America -as a fur-buyer," answered the other. "Maybe I vill keep him as a -curiosity. I have not yet decided; but vatever I do is no concern of -yours." - -"Will you sell him to me?" - -"Maybe so ven I see your money." - -With this Winslow was forced to be content, and he departed with the -hope of redeeming his newly made friend and of carrying out his vaguely -formed intentions concerning him. Although twenty pounds was not a -large sum, it would embarrass him to procure it, since his family, -though well-to-do, were not people of wealth, and he was living on a -monthly allowance so small as barely to support him in gentility. - -In the mean time Nahma, left to his own melancholy company, gazed from -his window over the roofs and chimney-pots of London, feeling that no -greater evils could possibly befall him, and yet wondering vaguely what -would happen next. Food was brought to him and water, but no change in -his situation took place until the following morning. - -Then his master appeared accompanied by a coarse-featured man of -evident strength, whom the furrier had engaged to be keeper of his -new treasure. By them the young Indian was taken down to the shop, -where a small platform had been prepared for him. It was covered and -surrounded with costly furs, and here Nahma was seated with a fur robe -draped across his shoulders. Close at hand stood his keeper to see that -he neither escaped nor did injury to any about him. With the tableau -arranged, a stout 'prentice lad took a stand just outside the street -entrance and cried in lusty tones the novel attraction to be seen -within. - -"Step this way, lords and ladies. Come all ye gentlefolk, attend the -reception of his Highness, a native American cannibal prince just -arrived from the New World. Look within! Look within! Under the sign of -the Ermine Royal sits he. Free of charge are all gentlefolk invited to -meet him. This way, lords and ladies. Look within!" - -To this novel reception none but the well-dressed and evidently -well-to-do were admitted, since the poor could not be expected to -purchase furs then any more than now. And there would have been no -room for them in the limited space of the dingy little shop even had -they been admitted, for ere long it was crowded with fashionable folk -eager to be entertained by a novelty, while their retainers filled the -street. The spectators stared at Nahma and listened with credulous -ears to the marvellous tales told concerning him by the furrier, who, -clad in gorgeous raiment, acted the parts of host and showman. Also -many of them purchased furs, which was more to the purpose. Never had -the Ermine Royal done such a business, and never had its proprietor -greater reason to be satisfied with a venture. - -Amid all came Edward Winslow with his twenty pounds, which he proffered -to the Jew in return for Nahma's release. But the latter laughed him to -scorn. - -"For twenty pund did you think to get him, me lud? Nay, that was the -price I paid, as you vell know, and I must at least double my money. -Forty pund is my lowest offer, and fifty if he continues to attract -trade as at present. Speech mit him? I have no objection, only have a -care that you seek not to seduce him from my service, or a thing might -happen not to your liking." - -Keenly disappointed at this result of his undertaking, the young man -pushed his way through the crowd until he stood close to the platform, -when he called, softly,-- - -"Massasoit." - -Instantly a glad light flashed into the eyes of the dejected figure -thus set up for a show, and, turning eagerly in that direction, he -exclaimed,-- - -"Winslow." - -Then the two friends clasped hands, and Winslow managed to convey the -information that he would come again on the morrow. - -He kept his promise; and, though he had not succeeded in securing the -money necessary to redeem the young Indian, his visit brought much -comfort. For many days thereafter he came regularly, often bringing -some little thing that he thought might give pleasure; and these daily -glimpses of a friendly face were the only rays of light penetrating the -unhappy darkness of Nahma's captivity. He was never allowed to leave -the building, and was only marched to and fro up and down those weary -stairs between the den in which he lived and the hated platform on -which he was exhibited to gaping customers. - -At the end of three weeks Winslow, having received his month's -allowance and so raised the necessary forty pounds, tendered it to the -fur-dealer for the release of his slave, only to be told that the -price had again been doubled. - -Upon this the young man flew into a rage and there was an exchange of -bitter words, that ended in Winslow being told to mind his own affairs -and not attempt an interference with those that did not concern him. -As several 'prentice lads had gathered near during this quarrel and -stood eagerly awaiting their master's permission to pounce upon the -stranger, he realized the weakness of his position, and prudently ended -the affair by withdrawing from the scene. At the same time he was as -determined as ever to effect Nahma's deliverance, and that speedily. - -For this purpose he invited a number of the more reckless of his Temple -companions to a dinner, at which he told the story of Massasoit and -enlisted their sympathies in his behalf. Then he proposed a rescue, to -which they enthusiastically agreed. - -According to this plan they were to meet near the furrier's shop at -the busiest hour of the second day from then, each man wearing his -sword, and prepared to use it if necessary. There they were to mingle -with the sight-seers and resist any attempts at interference with the -movements of Winslow. The latter undertook to spirit the young Indian -out of the same rear entrance through which he had first been brought, -into an unfrequented alley, while one of his friends should for a -moment distract the attention of the keeper. - -To perfect the details of this scheme and provide a safe retreat for -him whom they proposed to rescue occupied two days, and then all was -in readiness. At this point the would-be rescuers were confronted -by an unforeseen and insurmountable obstacle. The young Indian had -disappeared. He was no longer an inmate of the furrier's shop, and no -one could or would give the slightest information concerning him. - - - - -CHAPTER XXI - -A CHANGE OF MASTERS - - -For some days Nahma's master had been uneasy about him. Close -confinement, lack of exercise and fresh air, and a hopeless melancholy -were so telling upon the captive that his health was seriously -affected. He was thin and miserable, had no appetite, and suffered from -a hacking cough. These things troubled the fur-dealer, not because of -his humanity, for he had none, but because of a prospect of losing the -money he had invested in this bit of perishable property. He was also -alarmed by Winslow's interest in the young Indian, and feared the very -thing that the former had planned. - -Then, too, one of his gentleman customers had suggested that when the -fact of an American prince being in London came to the king's ears he -would probably order him to be brought to the palace. In that case, as -the furrier well knew, he would never be recompensed for his outlay, -since King James was not given to spending unnecessary money, and -he might even be called to account for holding a royal personage in -captivity. He wished now that he had not described his Indian as a -prince; and, all things considered, decided that the sooner he got rid -of him the better off he would be. - -It happened that while he was in this frame of mind he was visited -by a travelling mountebank, whose business was to exhibit freaks and -curiosities of whatsoever kind he could obtain, at country fairs. -Having heard of the fur-dealer's Indian, he went to see him, and was so -impressed with his value as an attraction that he promptly offered ten -pounds for him. - -"Already haf I refused forty," replied the furrier. - -"It was doubtless offered when he was in condition. Now, as any one may -see, he is on the verge of a quick decline and is like to die on your -hands. It would be a risk to take him at any price, and it will cost a -pretty penny to restore him to health, without which he is of no more -value than a mangy dog." - -"But I haf advanced twenty pund for his passage-money, and haf been at -the expense of his keep ever since." - -"A cost that has been repaid a thousand-fold by the advertisement he -has given your wares. But to insure you against loss, which I well know -a Jew hates worse than death itself, I will give twenty pounds for the -varlet, sick and scrawny though he be. What say you? Is it a bargain?" - -"Hand over the price and he is yours." - -Of course the subject of this barter was not consulted concerning it. -Nor did he know anything of the change about to come over his life -until darkness had fallen. Then, as he lay on his bed of musty straw, -dreaming of the free forest life that was once his, he was startled by -the entrance into his room of two men, one of whom bore a rush-light. -In him Nahma recognized his hated keeper, but the other was a stranger. - -"Come," said the former, gruffly; and, glad of any break in the deadly -monotony of his life, Nahma obediently followed him, while the other -brought up the rear. - -Down-stairs they went and out into the darkness of the streets, where -each of the men grasped him by an arm as though fearful that he might -attempt an escape. The young Indian smiled bitterly as he realized -this, for nothing was further from his thought. In all that wilderness -of houses he had but one friend, and he knew no more where to look for -Winslow than he would if the latter were dead. To him all other white -men represented cruelty and injustice, therefore nothing was to be -gained by escaping from those who held him. He would only fall into -the clutches of others against whom he would be equally powerless. So -he went along quietly and with apparent willingness, somewhat to the -surprise of his new master. - -"I fail to note but that he goes readily enough," he remarked. -"Methought you said he was vicious and like to prove troublesome." - -"Oh, he's quiet enough now," replied the other, "but wait and see. -They're as treacherous, these Hammerican savages, as cats. Purr till -they see a good chance and then scratch. If they draw life's blood -they're all the more pleased. I knows 'em, for I've had experience, -and my word! but you've got to watch 'em every minute." - -It was by such representations that the keeper hoped to induce the -showman to continue him in his present easy position. Now he wished -that his charge would make some aggressive exhibition merely to -demonstrate the necessity for his own presence. He slyly pinched -the prisoner's arm until it was ready to bleed, with the hope of at -least causing him to cry out; but Nahma endured the pain with all the -stoicism of his race and gave no sign. - -Thus they proceeded through a weary labyrinth of foul streets, only -lighted at long intervals by flaring torches borne by retainers of -well-to-do pedestrians, until finally they turned into the yard of -a rambling tavern that stood on the outskirts of the town. It was a -famous resort for wagoners who transported goods to and from all parts -of the kingdom, and its court was now crowded with ponderous vehicles -and their lading. - -Here Nahma was thrust for safe-keeping into an outhouse, the air of -which was close and foul, and its door was barred behind him. To our -unhappy lad it seemed as if the whole remainder of his life was to be -marked only by a succession of imprisonments, each more dismal than -its predecessor. In Quebec he had had Tasquanto's companionship and -an open window. On shipboard he had been given the same comrade and a -daily outing. In the furrier's establishment he had had a window and an -occasional hand-clasp from Winslow; but here he was alone, in absolute -darkness, and gasping for a breath of fresh air. - -The wretched night finally came to an end, and with the first gray of -morning his new master appeared, bringing an armful of coarse clothing, -soiled and worn. Stripping Nahma of his buckskin suit, he compelled him -to don these ill-fitting garments, and then left him a platter of bones -for his breakfast. - -A little later they were on the road, and, to his amazement, Nahma -found himself leading a bear. It was a big brown bear, and its -whole head was enclosed in a stout muzzle; but, in spite of this, -our young Indian, who had never heard of a tame bear, felt anything -but comfortable at finding himself in such company unarmed. Besides -himself and the bear, the party was made up of the showman, a -cadaverous youth answering to the name of "Blink," who afterwards -proved to be a contortionist, and a heavily laden pack-horse. To -Nahma's relief, the big man who had acted as his keeper was no longer -of the company. - -For a time our lad was so taken up with his bear and the discomforts -of his unaccustomed clothing that he paid but slight attention to -his surroundings. Then, all of a sudden, he uttered a cry of amazed -delight, for they were entering a forest. No longer were houses to be -seen, no longer was the horrid din of the city to be heard. Once more -was he beneath green trees, with the songs of birds ringing in his ears -and the smell of the woods in his nostrils. He drew in long breaths -of the scented air, and a new light came into his eyes. Having found -a forest, might he not also hope to discover people of his own kind? -If there were forests in this strange land and bears, why should there -not also be Indians? At any rate, he would keep a sharp watch, and -if he should see any, how quickly he would take leave of his present -companions and join them! - -That night they lay at an inn, where an iron shackle was locked about -one of Nahma's ankles, and, with the bear, he was chained up in a -stable. On the following day they reached a straggling country town in -which a fair was to be held and where they were to give an exhibition. -Here they pitched a tent. Nahma's suit of buckskin was restored to him, -and he was again made to paint his face. - -In this first exhibition he had nothing to do but stand and be stared -at by curious rustics, but after this he was taught and encouraged to -perform a number of acts in company with the bear. One of these was to -shoot, with bow and arrow, an apple, or some other small object, from -the animal's head. Then they would wrestle together, and finally a sort -of a dance was arranged for them, in which Blink, made up as a clown -for the occasion, also took part. Thus the show became so unique and -popular that its proprietor coined more money than any other on the -road. - -But with prosperity came an evil more terrible even than adversity; -for, with money to spend, the showman began to squander it in gambling -and drinking until it was a rare thing for him to draw a sober breath. -He became quarrelsome with his intimates and brutal to those in his -power. His poor bear was beaten and tortured to make it learn new -tricks until it became a snarling, morose beast, influenced only -by fear, and dangerous to all except the young Indian, who was its -fellow-sufferer. He, too, was abused, starved, beaten, and in all ways -maltreated for not learning faster and pouring more money into his -master's bottomless pockets. - -One day, while Nahma and the bear were wearily performing their antics -before a crowd of gaping yokels in the market-place of a small shire -town in the west, the youth's attention was drawn to a child who was -uttering shrill cries of pleasure. She was a dainty little thing with -flaxen hair and blue eyes, exquisitely dressed, and was in charge of a -maid. They had come from a coach that was drawn up before a shop near -by, and the throng had opened to make way for them until they stood in -the very front rank. - -Suddenly the child, in an ecstasy of delight, pulled away from her -nurse and ran forward with the evident intention of caressing the bear -as though he had been a big dog. The brute was so tired, hungry, and -cross that Nahma had with difficulty kept him to his work. Now, with -a snarl and a fierce gleam in his small bloodshot eyes, he raised a -threatening paw as though to sweep away the little fluttering thing -that came running so confidently towards him. - -A great cry rose from the crowd. The maid, so terrified as to be -incapable of motion, screamed and covered her face with her hands; but -Nahma, darting forward, snatched the child from under the descending -paw. So narrow was the escape that his left arm was torn from shoulder -to elbow by the cruel claws, and he staggered beneath the blow. - -The showman, who had been passing his cap among the spectators, ran -to the bear and, beating him over the head with a stout cudgel, drove -him to his quarters in a near-by stable. Part of the populace cheered -Nahma, while others demanded the death of the bear, and amid all the -confusion came the mother of the little girl, frantic with terror. To -her our lad delivered the child, frightened but unharmed. Then, without -waiting to be rewarded, or even thanked, he ran to look after his -friend the bear. - - - - -CHAPTER XXII - -NAHMA AND THE BEAR RUN AWAY - - -Nahma found the showman and Blink engaged in a violent dispute over -the bear. The former was insisting that Blink should escape, with -the animal, from the rear of the stable and lead it to a place of -concealment on the outskirts of the village, where he would join them -later. In the mean time he would divert the attention of the mob until -the escape could be made. Blink, who was not on friendly terms with the -bear, was refusing on the ground that, with the animal in its present -temper, his life would not be worth a moment's purchase. - -"Then let the heathen take him, and do you go along to see that they -do not give us the slip," exclaimed the man, as Nahma appeared and -a howl from the mob announced their approach. Their interest had -been distracted for a minute while they watched the lady with the -frightened child in her arms regain her coach, which was immediately -driven away. Now they were ready to settle with the bear, and turned -towards the stable in which he had taken refuge. As they drew near -the showman, who, though a brute, was no coward, appeared in its open -doorway and confronted them. - -"Good my masters," he cried, "what seek you?" - -"Thy bear!" roared a dozen voices. "Bring forth thy bear that we may -bait him. He is not fit to live, and must be slain." - -Again the showman attempted to speak, but his voice was drowned in the -bedlam of cries raised by the mob; and, losing control of his temper, -he shook his cudgel defiantly at them. Upon this a shower of stones was -hurled at him, and one of them striking him on the head, he staggered -and fell. At this the mob halted, and some even sneaked away, fearful -of consequences. The village barber, who was also its surgeon, bustled -forward to make an examination of the wounded man. He was conscious, -but in spite of, or possibly on account of, copious bloodletting, -which was the only remedy administered, he died a few hours later. - -So completely was public attention distracted by this tragic event, -that for a time no thought was given to the original cause of the -disturbance, and, finally, when search was made for the bear, he -was nowhere to be seen. Not until the following day was any trace -discovered of those who had been in the showman's company. Then the -one known as "Blink" was found on the edge of a wood, helplessly bound -and half dead from a night of cold and terror. He could only tell -that, having escaped with the bear and the heathen, the latter had -suddenly set upon him without warning or provocation and reduced him to -the condition in which he was discovered. What had become of them or -whither they had gone he knew not, nor did he care. He only hoped he -would never again set eyes on the savage monsters who were so unfit for -Christian company. - -In the mean time Nahma and his companions had found no difficulty in -leaving the village unnoticed, since all public attention was for the -moment drawn in the opposite direction. Thus they successfully gained -the woodland that had been appointed by the showman as a place of -rendezvous. Here the young American suddenly realized that only Blink -stood between him and the freedom for which he longed. Up to this time -he had been shackled at night and so closely watched by day that no -chance of escape had offered. Now one had come, and so quick was our -lad to take advantage of it that within a minute the unsuspecting Blink -was lying helplessly bound hand and foot with his own kerchief and a -sash that formed part of his professional costume. Thus was he left, -while Nahma and the bear, whom the former now regarded as his sole -friend in all the world, plunged into the forest depths and disappeared. - -The England of that long-ago date was a very different country from -the England of to-day, and its entire population hardly exceeded two -millions of souls. Its few cities were small, and connected by highways -so abominable that travellers frequently lost their way while trying -to follow them. Not more than one-quarter of the arable lands were -under cultivation, while the remainder was covered with dark forests -and great fens, marshes, and desolate moors across which one might -journey for a day without sight of human habitation. Game of all kinds -abounded, and its hunting formed the chief recreation of the gentry and -of those nobles who left London during a portion of the year to dwell -on their estates. - -Thus our young Indian, upon gaining his freedom, found himself amid -surroundings at once familiar and congenial. He had with him the bow -and arrows used in his recent exhibitions, a fire-bag containing -flint, steel, and tinder, and a dirk that had been taken from Blink. -Thus provided he had no anxiety on the score of maintaining himself -comfortably. He realized that the bear was an encumbrance, but in his -present loneliness he was loath to part from it. And so the two pushed -on together until they had penetrated several miles into the forest, -when darkness overtook them. - -Then Nahma made a fire beside a small stream and cooked a rabbit he had -shot an hour earlier, while the bear nosed about for acorns, grubs, and -edible roots. - -They continued to traverse the forest on the following day, keeping -to the same general direction until our lad was satisfied that he -was beyond danger from pursuit, when he began to look about for a -supper and a camping-place. Both of these came at the same time, for -on discovering, successfully stalking, and finally killing a deer, he -found that the animal had been drinking from a spring of clear water, -beside which he determined to establish his camp. Further than this he -had no plans. It was enough for the present that he was free, in the -forest that he loved, and beyond all knowledge of the white man whom -he hated. Here, then, he would abide for a time, or until he should -discover people of his own kind, for he was still impressed with the -belief that others like himself must inhabit those game-filled forests. - -That night both he and the bear, to whom he talked as though it were a -human being, ate to their satisfaction of deer meat, and Nahma lay down -to sleep beside his shaggy friend, happier than he had been at any time -since leaving his native land. - -The next morning he was early astir and ready to begin work on the -lodge that he proposed to construct. By mid-day he had the poles of the -frame cut, set in the ground, arched over until they met, and fastened -in position. Then he went in quest of proper material for a thatch -or covering. The bear, having spent the morning in feeding, was left -behind, chained to a small tree and fast asleep. - -While searching for the material he wanted Nahma struck the fresh -trail of a deer, which after a long chase he overtook and killed. -As he was returning with the hide and haunches on his back he was -startled by a baying of hounds, which changed as he listened to a -snarling, growling, and yelping that indicated a battle royal. From -the nature and direction of these sounds our lad realized that trouble -of some kind had come to the bear, and, without a thought of danger to -himself, he ran to the assistance of his comrade. Reaching the scene, -he found the bear, though sadly hampered by his chain, making a gallant -fight against a pack of boar-hounds that had come across him while -ranging the forest. They were fierce, gaunt creatures, and although -two of their number, already knocked out, were lying to one side -feebly licking their wounds, it was evident that the chained bear was -overmatched and must speedily be dragged down. Flinging away his burden -and drawing his dirk, Nahma rushed forward and sprang into the thick of -the fray, uttering the fierce war-cry of the Iroquois as he did so. - -For a few minutes there was a furious and indiscriminate mingling of -bear, dogs, and man, then of a sudden the young Indian was seized -from behind, dragged backward, and flung to the ground by one of two -men clad in the green dress of foresters, who had just arrived on the -scene. While Nahma's assailant hastily but securely fastened the lad's -arms so as to render him harmless, the other ranger ended the battle, -still raging, by thrusting a keen-bladed boar-spear through the bear's -body. It pierced the animal's heart, and he sank with a sobbing groan. - -"A fair sorrowful bit o' wark this, Jean," remarked the man who had -killed the bear, as he examined the several dogs. "Fower dead; two -killed by yon brute and two by the dirk of this wastrel. All the rest -gouged, cut, and bit up. But he'll answer for it smartly when once Sir -Amory claps eyes on him, the thievin', murthren gypsy poacher." - -"Yes, I reckon he'll sweat fine," replied the other, with a grin; "but -did iver thou see bear chained afore?" - -"Noa, niver. Lucky thing 'twas, though. But come on whoam. Bring -Poacher with 'e, and we'll send pack-horse for bear. No use looking -furder for pigs this day." - -So poor Nahma, once more bereft of his freedom and of the dumb brute -whom he regarded as his only friend, his garments rent and his body -bleeding from a dozen wounds, was marched away between the two stout -rangers, while after them trooped the dogs. - -Sir Amory Effingham, a knight in high favor at court, was lord of that -region, and being devoted to the chase, he spent several months of each -year at Garnet Hall, the ivy-covered forest castle in which his family -had been cradled for generations. It lay a league from the scene of -Nahma's capture, and by the time he was brought within sight of its -battlemented towers the short day was closing and night was at hand. - -While one of the rangers kennelled the dogs and looked after their -wounds, the other thrust Nahma, with his hurts still unattended, into -an empty store-room, locked its door, and went to make report of what -had taken place. - -"A gypsy, eh? A poacher, caught red-handed, and a dog-killer, is he?" -quoth Sir Amory, angrily. "Hanging will be too good for him. He should -be drawn and quartered as an example to all of his kidney, and I will -deal with his case in the morning. Look well to him, then, see that he -escapes not, and bring him to me in the great hall after the breaking -of fast." - -"Yes, Sir Amory." - -"And, Jean, send for that bear and have his pelt taken before the body -stiffens." - -"Yes, Sir Amory." - -"Also, Jean, give both the dogs and the prisoner a good feed of bear's -meat." - -So all was done as directed; only Nahma, realizing the nature of the -food thrown to him some hours later, refused to eat of it. - - - - -CHAPTER XXIII - -AN HONORED GUEST - - -On the following morning, after the lord of the manor, his family, and -all his retainers had partaken of their rude but abundant breakfast, -and washed it down with copious draughts of ale, which at that time -took the place of coffee or tea, Sir Amory ordered the prisoner of -the preceding evening to be brought before him. The dining-tables, -which were merely boards laid on trestles, were cleared away, and the -great hall was made ready to serve as a court of justice. Witnesses -were summoned, and spectators gathered, until but few of the knight's -following were absent. Squires, pages, men-at-arms, grooms, foresters, -and under-servants, all filled with an eager curiosity, flocked to the -scene of trial; for the case in hand was of so serious a nature that -its resulting punishment would be certain to afford vast entertainment. - -In those days the killing of a deer by any person beneath the rank of -a gentleman was a capital offence; while the killing of a hunting dog -by one of the peasant class ranked as a crime so abominable as to merit -the severest penalty. For either of these things the offender might be -hanged, whipped to death, or executed in any other fitting manner, at -the discretion of the judge. He might not be beheaded, as that form -of punishment was reserved for offences against the state, committed -by persons of rank. Neither might he be burned, since the stake was -only for witches and victims of religious persecution. If the lord of -the manor were inclined to be merciful, the deer-stealer or dog-killer -might be given his life, and escape with some such slight punishment -as having his ears cropped or a hand chopped off; but in the present -case it was universally agreed that the crime was of a nature to demand -the severest possible punishment. Thus, when the prisoner appeared, -he was regarded with eager curiosity as one who promised to furnish a -spectacle of uncommon interest. - -Friendless, wounded, ragged, half starved, and utterly ignorant of the -situation confronting him, the son of Longfeather was led the whole -length of the great hall to the dais at its upper end, on which sat the -master of his fate. As he was halted, Sir Amory exclaimed,-- - -"On my soul, as scurvy a knave as ever I set eyes upon. I knew not that -even a gypsy could present so foul an aspect. What is thy name and -condition, sirrah?" - -Not understanding what was said, Nahma made no answer. Only, recalling -the teaching of his own people, he stared his questioner full in the -face with a mien that, in spite of his sorry plight, was quite as -haughty as that of the knight himself. - -"A contumacious varlet and insolent," remarked Sir Amory, "but it is -possible that we may find means to lower his pride. Let the ranger -named Jem stand forth and relate his tale of the occurrence concerning -which this investigation is made." - -So Jem told his story, and it was corroborated by the other forester. -Also were the dead hounds introduced as evidence, together with the -dirk that Nahma had used so effectively. - -"What hast thou to say in thy own behalf, scoundrel?" asked the knight, -turning again to the prisoner after all this testimony against him had -been submitted. - -Still there was no answer, but only an unflinching gaze and a proudly -uplifted head. - -"Think you the creature is dumb?" inquired the puzzled magistrate. - -"No, Sir Amory," replied one of the foresters, "of a surety he is not, -for we heard him call loudly to the bear, and at sound of his voice the -beast made violent effort to break his chain that he might get to him." - -"Chain?" quoth the knight. "This is the first mention I have heard of -any chain. What mean you? Was the bear indeed chained?" - -"Chained and muzzled was he," admitted the ranger, "else it had gone -more hardly with the dogs than happened." - -"Chained and muzzled," repeated the knight, reflectively, and -casting a searching gaze upon the prisoner. "Still, it may be only a -coincidence." With this he gave an order in a low tone to a page who -stood at hand, and the boy darted away. - -"Saw you trace of other gypsies at or near that place?" asked the -knight, continuing his examination of the forester. - -"No, Sir Amory. That is, we saw no humans, but there was a booth partly -built close at hand." - -"What is the material of the prisoner's dress?" - -"Deer-skin, Sir Amory, nothing less." - -At this moment a tapestry was drawn aside, and a lady, appearing on the -dais, stood beside her husband with a look of inquiry. She was followed -by one bearing in her arms a child, at sight of which the prisoner was -surprised into a momentary start as of recognition. - -"My dear," said Sir Amory, "will you favor us by glancing at yonder -gypsy and telling if ever you have set eyes on him before?" - -The lady looked in the direction indicated, but shook her head. Ere she -could speak, however, the maid, who had followed her gaze, uttered a -cry, and exclaimed,-- - -"It is the very one, my lady. The youth, I mean, who danced with that -dreadful bear and saved the life of my little mistress." - -"Yes," said the lady, slowly. "I did not recognize him on the moment; -but now me-thinks he is the same from whose hands I received my child, -safe and unharmed, though blood-bespattered. But, Amory, what is he -doing here? A prisoner and under guard! Surely----" - -"It is all a mistake," cried the knight, rising to his feet in great -agitation. "He is not a prisoner, but an honored guest. Nor is he -under guard, but under the protection of one who owes to him a life -dearer than his own. Gentlemen, the hearing is dismissed; the prisoner -is honorably acquitted, and will hereafter be known as my friend, if -indeed he can forgive the cruel wrong I meditated against him. Away, -ye varlets. Bring food and wine. Fetch warm water and clean napery, -salve and liniments. Body o' me! The youth is wounded and hath had no -attention. He looks ready to drop with weakness. Draw a settle for him -beside the fire. Fetch----" - -But the servants were already flying in every direction in their -efforts to minister to the evident needs of him whose position had -undergone so sudden a transformation. - -At the same time Nahma himself was even more bewildered by the good -fortune that was overwhelming him than ever by the hard fate that had -for so long been his constant attendant. - -Somewhat later the lady who, with her companions, had withdrawn, came -again to the hall, and stepping to where she could obtain a good view -of the youth, looked at him steadily for the space of a minute. He, in -the mean time, had been bathed and fed, his wounds had been dressed, -and he wore a body-gown from the knight's own wardrobe that gave him an -air of grace and dignity. - -"He is no gypsy, Sir Amory," said the lady, finally, withdrawing her -gaze and turning to her husband. - -"I myself am beginning to doubt if he belongs to those nomads," replied -the knight. "But if not a gypsy, to what race can he lay claim, with -that tinge of color and with hair of such raven blackness?" - -"Dost remember the tale told us in London by my cousin Edward -concerning an arrival from the New World in whom he had taken an -interest?" - -"Ay, well do I, and it so aroused my curiosity that I made an errand -shortly after to the place where he was said to be, but he had -disappeared. How was he called? Can you remember the name?" - -"He was called 'Massasoit,'" replied the lady, uttering the word -distinctly and observing the youth as she spoke. - -Turning quickly he looked at her with eager questioning. - -"Who are your friends?" she asked, addressing him directly and speaking -the words slowly. - -He understood and answered, "Bear frien'. Tasquanto frien'. White man -frien', Winslow." - -"That proves it!" cried the lady, triumphantly. "He must be the -American Indian of whom Cousin Edward told us, and who is said to be a -prince in his own country. At any rate, as he certainly saved the life -of our child, we have ample reason to befriend him." - -"Indeed, yes," agreed Sir Amory. "And to fail in a duty so plainly -indicated would lay us open to the charge of base ingratitude." - -Thus it happened that the young American who had been kidnapped from -his own country, sold as a slave in London, and finally arrested on a -charge that threatened to cost him his life, became the honored guest -of a stately English home. His hosts sought in every way to promote -his comfort and happiness, and when they discovered that he preferred -living in the open to dwelling under a roof, he was promptly given -the freedom of their domain. He was also accorded full liberty to -dwell on it where he pleased, and to kill such of its abundant game as -would supply his needs. Armed with this permission, Nahma immediately -repaired to the place where he had already begun the building of a -lodge after the fashion of his own people, and completed it to his -satisfaction as well as that of his hosts, who took a lively interest -in his work. He covered it with bark and lined its interior with the -skins of fur-bearing animals. In the centre was his fireplace, and at -one side his couch of dry sedge-grass covered with the great shaggy -hide of his one-time friend, the bear. Here our Indian dwelt almost as -contentedly as though in his own land and under the trees of his native -forest. - -Much of his time was devoted to accompanying Sir Amory on his hunting -expeditions, during which the youth's marvellous skill in tracking game -and his fearlessness in moments of peril won for him both admiration -and respect. - -On days when there was no hunting he busied himself with making bows, -arrows, or snow-shoes, and in receiving visits from the green-coated -foresters, whose tastes and pursuits were so similar to his own. He -taught them some things, but learned more than he taught; and chiefest -of all the things that he learned was to load and fire a musket. Thus -was solved the mystery of the white man's thunder-stick, and he could -now smile as he recalled the melancholy experience of Tasquanto and -himself in attempting to fire a salute. - -So some months were happily passed, and it seemed as though our young -American would spend the remainder of his life as an English forester. -Then all of a sudden there occurred an amazing thing, by which he was -rendered so unhappy that he no longer cared to live if the balance of -his days must be passed under existing conditions. - - - - -CHAPTER XXIV - -NAHMA REMEMBERS - - -Most welcome of all the guests at Nahma's lodge was the little lady -Betty, who was sometimes taken thither by her father mounted in front -of him on his great Flemish horse Baldric. A strong friendship had -sprung up between the child and the young Indian, and she was never -happier than during the hour occasionally spent with him. She always -brought some little gift, and he never failed to have ready a unique -bit of his own handiwork to offer in return. Once it was a wee bow and -a quiver of small stone-headed arrows. Again he presented her with the -beautifully dressed skin of an otter. At length he completed a pair of -tiny snow-shoes gayly fringed and ornamented. For some days after they -were finished he waited expectantly the coming of his little friend, -and as she failed to appear, he finally decided to take his gift to the -castle. - -Now, it happened that Sir Amory, being called by some business to the -near-by city of Bristol, had taken his wife and little daughter with -him for a brief visit, from which they had just returned. As was usual -on such occasions, they had brought back a number of trifling gifts for -members of the household, and also one for the young Indian whom they -held in such high esteem. - -The city of Bristol, more than any other in England, was building up -a trade with the New World. While this trade was more especially with -the Virginia plantations, it was gradually extending northward along -the American coast. Thus a ship, recently returned, had voyaged as far -north as the French settlements, trading with natives wherever found on -her way. This ship had brought back many curious things, among which -was an object of native make that Sir Amory, having his Indian guest in -his mind, purchased on sight. - -"It may interest him," he said to his wife, "and, at any rate, it will -be something for Betty to take him when next she and I ride to his -lodge." So this present was fetched home with the others, and was to -have been carried out to Nahma on the very day of his appearance at the -castle. - -On learning that the Indian waited outside with a gift for Betty, Sir -Amory ordered him to be brought in. The knight and his lady together -with several guests were grouped near the huge fireplace in the great -hall as Nahma entered and, advancing gravely, extended a hand to his -host. Then, looking about inquiringly, he pronounced the single word -"Betty." - -"I' faith!" laughed the knight, "the young man hath quickly recognized -the most important personage of this establishment and will have -dealings with none other. Let Mistress Betty be brought." - -As soon as the little girl appeared, the young Indian, kneeling -gracefully, presented her with his gift. After the tiny snow-shoes had -been passed from hand to hand for inspection and their use had been -explained, Lady Effingham said,-- - -"Now, Betty, give him the present fetched from Bristol." - -Thus saying she placed a small packet in the child's hand, and the -latter, advancing shyly, handed it to Nahma. With a smiling face the -young warrior undid the wrappings of the packet until its contents were -exposed. Suddenly his expression changed to one of consternation and -bewilderment. For a moment he held the object in his hands gazing at -it wildly and in evident perplexity. Then he uttered a great cry and -a gush of tears filled his eyes. He gasped and seemed about to speak; -but, words failing him, he turned and fled from the hall, leaving its -occupants amazed at his strange actions. - -"It is doubtless a native charm of some kind," quoth the knight, -breaking the silence, "and a powerful one at that, for never did I see -a man so upset by a trifle. After a little, when he has had time to -quiet down, I will question him concerning his agitation, but until -then we must amuse ourselves with conjecture." - -In the mean time Nahma had not paused in his flight until reaching his -own lodge. There he sat down and examined his newly acquired prize -with minutest care, alternately laughing and crying as he did so. At -length, apparently satisfied with his inspection, he said aloud in the -long forgotten tongue of the Wampanoags,-- - -"Truly it is my father's wampum, and I am Nahma, the son of -Longfeather." - -It was indeed the Belt of Seven Totems, thus marvellously restored to -him from whose unconscious form it had been taken nearly three years -earlier in the far-away land of the Iroquois. Not only had Nahma thus -regained his father's badge of authority, but at sight of it the memory -of his earlier years, lost to him ever since he had been struck down -by Miantinomo, was abruptly and fully restored. He recalled who he was -and found himself once more in command of his native tongue. He also -remembered every incident of his journey to the country of the Maqua as -though it had been undertaken but the day before. He even remembered -lying down for a brief rest after eating his supper on the western bank -of the Shatemuc; but beyond that came a blank, and his next memory was -of Aeana in the lodge of Kaweras. - -As these things passed through his mind in rapid review, he was also -whelmed by a great wave of home-sickness. The voices of his own people -rang in his ears, and he heard the plash of waves on the beach at -Montaup. The scent of burning cedar from the evening camp-fires was -in his nostrils, and he felt the spring of brown pine needles beneath -his feet as he threaded the dim forest trails of his native land. In -a bark canoe he once more ran the foaming rapids of great rivers, or, -lying beside Tasquanto, he was lulled to sleep by the roar of mighty -cataracts. So distinct were the pictures thus flashed before him by the -magic belt that he had no longer a wish to live unless he could once -more gaze upon them in reality. Every other feeling was merged in an -intense desire to regain his own country and rejoin his own people. - -At length the longing for these things became so great that the youth -sprang to his feet, determined to set forth at once in quest of them. -His reason told him that such an adventure was well-nigh hopeless; but -the wampum belt urged him forward and persuaded him that by some means -he would succeed. So Nahma departed forever from the lodge that, but -an hour earlier, had seemed his home for life, and set forth on the -tremendous journey. He took with him only his weapons, a fur cloak, the -fire-bag that had once belonged to Aeana, and the Belt of Seven Totems -girded about his body next his skin. - -As he emerged from the lodge he stood for a moment irresolute. Whither -should he turn? What path would lead him to Montaup? Then the last word -uttered in his hearing by Betty's mother rang again in his ears. It -was "Bristol." From there the belt had but recently come, and there he -would begin to retrace its mysterious course to the place where he had -lost it. He had heard the foresters speak of Bristol, and he knew that -it lay in the direction of the setting sun. What Bristol was, or how -far away, he did not know, any more than what he should do upon getting -there. It was enough that his first step was decided upon, and without -a single backward glance he began his long homeward journey. - -An hour later Sir Amory on his good horse Baldric, and with mistress -Betty in his arms, rode up to the deserted lodge and uttered a cheery -call for its supposed occupant to come forth. The knight was puzzled -at finding the place empty; and for several days thereafter he caused -search to be made for its recent owner. But nothing came of this, nor -for many years did he hear a word concerning the disappearance and -whereabouts of Massasoit. - -That night Nahma slept in the wood, as lonely and friendless a human -being as could be found in all the world, but so happy in his regained -memory and in the knowledge that he, like others, could now lay claim -to home and people, towards whom he was journeying, that nothing else -mattered. On the morrow he struck the broad trail of a highway that -led to the westward, and thereafter he followed it. Noting that his -appearance attracted attention from the few travellers whom he met, he -determined to procure a suit of clothing that would render him less -conspicuous. - -He dreaded to approach a house, and was at a loss how to accomplish his -purpose until at dusk of the second day. Then he ran across a camp-fire -surrounded by a group of dark-skinned persons, who for a moment he -believed to be people of his own race. He did not discover his mistake -until he was within the circle of fire-light and it was too late to -retreat. So he put on a bold face, accepted an invitation to eat with -the gypsies, and strove hard, though without success, to understand -what they said. - -They in turn were as much puzzled by him as he was by them; but this -did not prevent them from exchanging a well-worn suit of clothing for -Nahma's fur robe when he intimated by signs his willingness to make -such a trade. As soon as he procured these things he put them on over -his buckskin garments; and, as a dilapidated cap had been thrown in -to complete the bargain, he was so thoroughly disguised that even Sir -Amory would have failed to recognize him. - -The gypsies invited their guest to cast his fortunes with them, and -proposed among themselves to compel him to do so in any event. He -neither declined nor accepted their offer, but after a while lay down -to sleep near their fire, as though willing, at any rate, to remain -with them for the present. Thus they were much chagrined to find in -the morning that he had disappeared without leaving a trace to show -which way he had gone. - -So it happened that our wanderer came at length to the snug little -seaport of Bristol, at that time second in importance only to London. -And thus was taken the first step of his momentous journey. Dusk -was falling as he entered the place, and for some time he wandered -aimlessly through its narrow streets. - -Then, unexpectedly, he came to the water front and discovered ships, -some under sail and others anchored in the stream. His heart leaped at -sight of them, for he supposed that all ships passed to and from his -own country. Therefore if he could only find one about to depart, and -contrive to get on board, the second and longest step of his journey -would be provided for. - -He managed to exchange his bow and arrows for a meal in a small -public-house near the water, and when he had eaten it he again strolled -outside looking for a place in which to pass the night. It was now -quite dark, and, without going far, he lay down to sleep under the lee -of a boat that was drawn up on one of the wharves. - -Some hours later he was awakened by sounds of shouting and scuffling -close at hand, and sprang to his feet in alarm. As he did so a rough -voice called out,-- - -"Here's another stout fellow! Seize him, lads, and hustle him along." - -Immediately Nahma was surrounded, and, despite his furious struggles, -was quickly overthrown and securely bound. - - - - -CHAPTER XXV - -BACK TO AMERICA - - -For a short space our lad was heart-broken by this rude awakening from -his dreams of freedom and of a return to his own country. Half dazed as -he was, he had fought desperately; and now, hustled along in company -with a dozen other unfortunates, all bound and suffering from rough -handling, his sole thought was of how he could soonest put an end to -the life that he was resolved not to pass in slavery. He recalled with -satisfaction the dirk that, hidden in his clothing, still remained to -him, and was determined to use it at the earliest opportunity, first on -such of his present enemies as he could reach and then on himself. - -Suddenly his sombre reflections were interrupted and given a decided -change of direction by finding himself crowded, together with his -wretched companions, into a boat. No sooner had it received them than -it was rowed out to the mouth of the harbor where stood a ship under -easy sail. - -From the moment of realizing that he was in a boat Nahma was filled -with a wild hope, and when he was transferred from it to the deck of a -waiting ship this hope was confirmed. For some reason utterly beyond -his comprehension he had once more been kidnapped, but only to be -placed in the very position he had longed to attain. - -The ways of the white man were past understanding. Why had he been -brought by force from his own country? and why should an equal amount -of anxiety now be shown, and even a greater amount of force be used, -to carry him back to it? He could not imagine, nor did he care. It was -enough that the second step of his homeward journey had been taken for -him and that the object he had so ardently desired was accomplished. - -Nahma would gladly have remained on deck and attempted to make himself -useful without a thought of escaping or of doing harm to those who had -unwittingly so aided his plans. But this was not permitted, and he was -bundled below with the poor wretches who had been ruthlessly torn from -their homes to be taken as bondsmen to the Virginia plantations. - -So great was the demand for labor in that colony that criminals were -sent there to work out their sentences and debtors to labor until their -indebtedness was discharged. In fact, all of whom society wished to -rid itself were shipped across the ocean. Men anxious to try their -fortunes in the New World but too poor to pay their passage went out -under contract, to serve any master who would purchase their time until -they had made good the money thus advanced. But even these sources -of supply were not sufficient to satisfy the demand for laborers, -and unscrupulous shipmasters found great profit in gathering up -unsuspecting citizens by means of press-gangs sent ashore on the eve of -departure, getting them on board, and sailing at once for the distant -scene of their enforced servitude. - -Thus Nahma now found himself in a motley company of mechanics, sailors, -small tradesmen, 'prentice lads, and others, all being carried away -against their will and without the knowledge of their friends. -Some had left dependent families unprovided for, while others were -parted from sweethearts or newly married wives. To us of to-day all -this sounds incredible; but the age of "good Queen Bess" was an age -of cruelty, when even the best thinking persons only shrugged their -shoulders on hearing of such things, and thanked their stars that they -were not in similar plight. - -Some of the group now surrounding Nahma in the small space allotted to -them, which was dimly lighted by a vilely smoking lamp, were groaning, -some weeping, others were bemoaning their hard fate, and all were as -wretchedly unhappy as it is possible for mortals to be. That is, all -except our young Indian, who was overjoyed at finding himself on a ship -that he believed would carry him back to his own country and people. - -The kidnapped men were kept below for several days, or until land was -out of sight and the ship was ploughing her slow way across the Bay of -Biscay; but after that they were allowed on deck from sunrise until -dark. As Nahma, buoyed by hope and eager anticipation, was the only one -among them who was not seasick, he was compelled to act as steward -of their mess. At first his duties in this capacity were light and he -performed them willingly, but later, when his companions had gained -their sea-legs, they forced all sorts of disagreeable tasks upon him, -and treated him with such cruelty that his hatred of white men was -increased a hundred-fold. - -They were much puzzled over his nationality, which he never revealed, -though often questioned concerning it. Most of them declared that he -was a gypsy, while others insisted that he was of negro blood and -called him "Guinea." The captain of the ship while strongly suspecting -him to be an American would not admit it, but spoke of him as a "Jack -Spaniard." - -So slow was the weary voyage that it was two months to a day before -the westerly winds against which they were beating brought to Nahma's -sensitive nostrils the first scent of land. That evening he hid himself -on deck so that he might sniff the air all night, and at daybreak he -was rewarded by the sight of land lying cloud-like on the western -horizon. - -During that day he was so inattentive to his enforced duties as -to win many a blow and kick from his brutal masters. Although the -young Indian's blood boiled with rage, he did not attempt to resent -these things, but submitted to them with an assumed meekness that -ill-expressed his feelings. He felt that he could afford to abide his -time, for was he not almost within reach of his own people? At the same -time deep down in his heart he vowed a bitter vengeance against those -who thus degraded him, if ever the opportunity should come. And it came -sooner than he expected, though not through his own people, as he had -hoped. - -Before the features of the landfall became recognizable the wind hauled -to the eastward and the weather thickened, with every indication of a -storm. Thus the skipper was greatly relieved shortly before night to -find his ship running into a broad bay between two distant headlands -that he believed to be the capes of Virginia, though in reality they -were those of Delaware. Without attempting to discover the mouth of the -James, he sought only a lee under which the night might be passed in -safety. - -When this was found and the ship was snugly anchored for the first time -since leaving Bristol, not only the captain but his entire company -began a carouse to celebrate this successful termination of their -perilous voyage. Liquor flowed freely in the cabin, and was served -forward in such generous measure that a liberal portion even found its -way to the wretched bondmen who expected shortly to be sold into years -of servitude. Thus by midnight nearly every man on board was helplessly -drunk, and most of them were asleep. - -Up to this hour the storm had steadily increased in violence, and the -ship, though still safe, was surging heavily at her cables. At the -same time but a single figure was in motion on her decks, and he was -creeping forward as stealthily as though fearful of being discovered. -Gaining the bow undetected, he bent for a minute over one of the -straining cables, and when he arose two of its hempen strands had been -severed. Then he stepped quickly to the other, drew his keen blade -across it once, twice, three times, and with the last stroke it parted. -The one first cut gave way almost at the same moment, and the freed -ship started up the bay like a restive steed just given a loose rein. - -With his long-meditated design thus successfully accomplished, Nahma -darted back to his place of hiding and awaited developments. He had -long since discovered that he was destined to be sold into slavery -among those white men who had settled far to the southward of his own -country. Tales of their injustice and cruelty towards the natives -had reached Montaup even before he left there, and had filled his -boyish heart with a fierce indignation. Now he was determined not -to fall alive into their hands, and believed that on this night or -never he must effect an escape. He could not swim to shore because of -the distance and the heavy seas. All the ship's boats were inboard -and securely lashed, so that he could not make off in one of them. -Consequently his only feasible plan seemed to be to let the ship -herself drift until she fetched up on some beach, from which he might -gain the safe cover of the woods. He had never experienced a shipwreck -and knew nothing of its terrors. Even if he had he would not have -hesitated to carry out his desperate plan. - -The captain of the drifting ship, too hard-headed to be overcome by any -amount of liquor, was the first to become aware that her cables had -parted. He stumbled on deck, bawling out orders that were mingled with -strange oaths, and, gaining the wheel, put his vessel's head before the -wind that she might scud without danger of being thrown on her beam -ends. Then he bellowed for assistance, but it came tardily, and was of -slight avail. There was but one spare anchor, and when finally it was -broken out, bent on, and got overboard, the ship was so far in the open -that it could not hold. - -So the helpless vessel drifted for several hours, and shortly before -daybreak struck with such force that all of her masts went by the -board. Then ensued a period of horrible crashing, grinding, and -pounding, with which were mingled the shrieks of drowning men. Some of -the strongest swimmers reached the shore, bruised and breathless but -still alive, and foremost among them was the almost naked form of him -who had caused the disaster. - -Battered and beaten by roaring breakers, weak and nearly perished with -cold, Nahma was at the same time upheld by such a spirit of exultation -as he had never before known. He was once more free and once more lying -on the beloved soil of his native land. No sooner had he regained his -breath after being flung on the beach than he struggled to his feet -and staggered to the safe shelter of a forest that grew almost to the -water's edge. He did not look back nor give a thought to what was -taking place behind him. The white men who would have sold him into -slavery might care for themselves, as might those who had so recently -degraded him by their blows and curses. - -An hour later our young Indian was seated by a camp-fire of the -Saganaga or Delawares, and telling them in sign language, supplemented -by the few words they had in common, of the wonderful treasure that the -sea had brought to their very doors. - -They, recognizing the splendid belt of wampum that he wore, listened -to him with closest attention; and when he had finished, all the -able-bodied men of the village hastened to the scene of the wreck, -leaving Nahma to the kindly hospitality of those who remained behind. - -That night there was no village in the Delaware nation, nor probably on -the entire Atlantic coast, so rich in scalps and plunder as the one in -which the son of Longfeather was an honored guest. - - - - -CHAPTER XXVI - -SASSACUS THE PEQUOT - - -This utter destruction of the ship and of her entire company gave great -satisfaction not only to the young Indian who had suffered so much on -her but to the Saganaga, who were at that time feeling very bitter -against white men on account of the recent stealing of a number of -their tribe to be sold into slavery. It had been the usual case of a -cordial welcome to the strangers from beyond the sea, a brisk trade by -which the confidence of the Indians was won, and then a sudden sailing -with some twenty of them on board. Now, thanks to Nahma, the Lenni -Lenape were revenged and their hearts were lightened of a burden. - -Also they had acquired wealth beyond their wildest dreams, and were -very grateful to him who had thrown it in their way. He did not tell -them that he had been a slave in the white man's country, for he was -determined to keep that humiliating knowledge to himself. So he only -gave them to understand that he too had been kidnapped, and let them -imagine it to have been of recent occurrence. - -They had at once recognized the Belt of Seven Totems that Nahma wore -diagonally across his breast when first appearing among them, though no -member of their tribe had ever before seen it. They, however, knew it -from description; for, among American Indians, tribal totems and the -belts of principal chieftains were as well known as are the banners of -European nations, and the coats of arms of their rulers, among white -men. The Saganaga also knew that none but Longfeather or his eldest son -might wear the Belt of Seven Totems, and so they treated Nahma with -every mark of consideration. - -Finding that he was desirous of returning at once to his own country, -they furnished him with clothing, weapons, and a belt of wampum bearing -the likeness of a serpent, which he was to deliver to the Peacemaker as -a badge of friendship. They also provided an escort of young warriors, -who would guide him to the country of the Pavonias. These people, who -were a branch of the Saganaga, occupied the territory lying on the -south side of the Shatemuc at the point where it flows into the sea, -and they willingly furnished Nahma with a canoe in which to continue -his journey. - -Launching this craft on the waters of the narrow, tide-swept channel -afterwards known as the Kill von Kull, and receiving from his friends a -goodly store of parched corn, our traveller set forth alone on the last -stage of his homeward journey. - -On leaving the Kill he crossed New York Bay, undotted by a single sail, -passed the densely wooded island that was to be known as "Governor's," -and entered the East River. Here he came upon a scene of enchanting -beauty. On his right stretched the level salt marshes and wooded plains -of Long Island. On the other hand lay rock-ribbed Manhattan, rugged -with hills and valleys, among which sparkled many crystal springs and -rippling brooks. It was covered from end to end and from water's edge -to water's edge with groves of stately forest-trees interspersed -with grassy glades in which fed herds of deer. Over all was flung the -exquisite veil of a May verdure, while the air was heavy with the scent -of blossoms and filled with the song of mating birds. On the river's -edge brown rocks were fringed with fantastic sea-growths that waved in -the swift tide like banners streaming in a breeze. - -Brooding ducks and wading heron peopled every placid cove, fish leaped -from the clear waters, and white-plumed gulls flecked the blue sky. The -beauty and peace of nature reigned undisturbed over all; for, as yet, -no Old World keel had cleaved those waters, and the site of what was -destined to become the greatest city of the earth was still untainted -by the blight of civilization. Nor did Nahma see a human being on his -whole journey from bay to sound. In the place destined to hold millions -of his kind he was alone. - -Skirting the northern shore of Long Island Sound, the solitary voyager, -always taking pains to avoid observation, passed the country of the -Mohicans and entered upon that of the Pequots. During the four days -thus occupied he had not held communication with any man, having -shunned alike the infrequent villages of bark huts and the camp-fires -of fishermen or shell gatherers, as well as their canoes. He did not -wish to be delayed or recognized before reaching the country of his own -people. Consequently he hesitated for a moment when, on the fourth day -of his journey, he discovered two figures in a canoe making signals of -distress. - -They were midway between an island lying several miles off shore -and the mainland, and their canoe was so low in the water that it -seemed about to sink. One of the figures was that of a man, who was -paddling with desperate energy, while the other, evidently a woman, was -furiously bailing water from the sinking craft. Only for a moment did -Nahma hesitate, and then he headed with all speed in that direction. - -The water-logged canoe sank before he reached it; but, within a few -minutes, he had rescued the survivors, and they were safely bestowed in -his own craft. With this accomplished, he started towards the land that -had been their objective-point when, as he afterwards learned, their -canoe had been pierced and ripped open by a sword-fish. Whether this -had been done with malice, playfully, or by accident they could not -tell; but it had so endangered their lives that they would, almost of a -certainty, have drowned had not the stranger come to their rescue. - -Not a word was spoken by any one of the three until the canoe had -nearly gained the land. Then the rescued man, who, though young, was of -commanding aspect, turned from his paddling in the bow and said,-- - -"Thou hast saved us from death and I will not forget it. I am Sassacus, -chief of the Pequots." - -Nahma's heart leaped within him. The Pequots formed one of the tribes -acknowledging the authority of his father, and this youth was his -own cousin. He was about to make reply, when the other continued: "I -perceive thou art a stranger, and if thy business be not too pressing, -my lodge would be honored to shelter thee as a guest." - -"Gladly would I tarry," was the reply, "but I may not, for I bear a -belt from the Saganaga to Longfeather the Peacemaker, that must be -promptly delivered. The name by which I am known is Massasoit." - -The Pequot chieftain turned and gazed keenly at the speaker. "Have not -the Lenni Lenape learned that Longfeather has gone the great journey?" -he asked. - -"Dead! Longfeather dead, and I not with him at the end!" cried Nahma, -shocked by the suddenness of this news into an unpremeditated betrayal -of feeling. "When did he die, and how? Was he killed in battle?" - -"He went to the place of Okis when the willow leaves were the size -of mouse-ears, and he was killed by the pale-faces who come from the -sea with death and destruction in their hands," answered the young -chieftain, bitterly. - -"Killed by the white man!" gasped Nahma, his face growing black and the -cords of his neck swelling with rage. "Then by his blood I swear----" - -"Wait," commanded Sassacus. "Not directly did the men from the sea -take his life, nor was his blood shed. With the falling of leaves one -of their winged canoes came to land near Montaup. From it were set -on shore two men more nearly dead than living. Then the great canoe -departed, leaving them to die. The dwellers of that country took pity -on them and cared for them; but they died, and in a short time all -who had gone near them were also dead. The plague spread from the -Pokanokets to the Nausets, the Nipmucks, the Naticks, the Abenakis, and -may still be spreading in the land of cold, though on this side it was -stayed by the coming of warm weather, and thy---- Longfeather was the -last to die of it." - -For a few moments Nahma sat silent. Then, lifting his face, on which -were unconcealed traces of a mighty grief, he said, "I will go with -thee, Sassacus." - -"It is well," replied the other, and no further word was spoken between -them until after a landing was made. Even then the subject that had so -greatly affected the new-comer was not again mentioned until after he -had been taken to the lodge of the young chieftain and refreshed. This -having been done, the guest requested that his host would walk apart -with him, and when they were by themselves he said,-- - -"Thy news of the Peacemaker hath so confused my plans that I am at a -loss how to proceed and would learn further from thee. First I would -know who exercises authority in place of the great Wampanoag? Left he a -son to rule in his stead?" - -Sassacus looked curiously at his guest as he answered,-- - -"Longfeather had a son who should take his place, but he disappeared -many moons ago." - -"How?" - -"No man knows for a certainty. Some say that he joined the Iroquois, -and others that he was taken prisoner by the Hurons of the cold land. -In that case there is small chance of his being now alive." - -"Who, then, wears the Belt of Seven Totems?" - -"No one wears it," replied the other, gravely, "for it also disappeared -at the same time. Miantinomo the Narragansett claims the place and -authority of Longfeather in the name of Canonicus, his father, and is -even now at Montaup." - -"Miantinomo!" exclaimed Nahma, bitterly. "By what right does he make -such a claim?" - -"By the right of a strong arm," replied the other. - -"Is he loved and respected as was Longfeather?" - -"No; he is hated by many and feared by all." - -"Why, then, was he allowed to assume authority?" - -"Because there was none other to dispute him." - -"If one should come----?" began Nahma, hesitatingly. - -"If one should come wearing the Belt of Seven Totems, or bearing other -proof that he is the son of Longfeather," said Sassacus quickly, and -with a meaning glance at his companion, "then would he find many to -support his claim." - -For a full minute Nahma hesitated, and the young men gazed steadfastly -at each other. Then Nahma slowly thrust a hand within his buckskin -shirt, and, drawing forth the Belt of Seven Totems, displayed it to his -companion. - -"Here is the Peacemaker's badge of authority," he said, "and here also -is he who should succeed him, for I am Nahma, son of Longfeather." - -"I have known it, my brother," replied Sassacus, "since the moment I -saw thy face on hearing news of thy father's death, but I would not -speak till thou hadst spoken. Now, however, I gladly acknowledge thee -as my sachem, and will at once make public announcement of thy coming." - -"Not so," objected Nahma. "For the present, and until I can meet -Miantinomo face to face, I must be Massasoit of the Lenni Lenape. If, -however, my brother will go to Montaup with a following of his young -men, I will gladly travel in his company." - - - - -CHAPTER XXVII - -A ROYAL HOME-COMING - - -By murder, treachery, fraud, and force Miantinomo the Narragansett -had finally attained the position upon which he had so long cast -envious eyes. At the death of Longfeather he had caused himself to -be proclaimed Peacemaker, or ruler of the confederated New England -tribes, in the name of his adopted father, who was now too old to take -an active part in affairs of this kind. The various stories concerning -Nahma, circulated from time to time, had not disturbed him, for did he -not know that his rival was dead? Nor had he any fear that the Belt -of Seven Totems would ever again be seen in those parts, since he had -given it to a white trader in exchange for a hatchet, and it had been -carried to that mysterious place beyond the sea from which nothing ever -returned. - -He had also learned with satisfaction of Sacandaga's death, for that -chieftain was the only red man who had ever seen the belt in his -possession. With all traces of his own treacherous dealings thus -wiped out, the ambitious young man had no hesitation in proclaiming -Canonicus, his father, to be Longfeather's successor by virtue of his -position as head of the strongest tribe in the confederation. - -Although Miantinomo was generally disliked, no person felt strong -enough to dispute this claim, and so he was sullenly accepted as -Lawgiver of the tribes. In this capacity he hastened to take possession -of Montaup, which had become the recognized seat of government. - -There he at once proceeded to belie his assumed character of Peacemaker -by making preparations on a large scale for invading the country of -the Iroquois. He had never forgiven them for refusing to treat with -him simply as a Narragansett, and now that he was in a position to -command a war-party equal to any they could put in the field, he -believed the time for humiliating them had come. He sent a runner to -the Hurons urging them to attack the Iroquois from the north about the -time that he proposed to cross the Shatemuc, and he imagined that -the combination thus formed would prove overpowering. He also hoped -that all this warlike activity would divert the thoughts of those who -were displeased with his usurpation of authority, and he knew that a -successful war would firmly establish his position. - -So Miantinomo had sent messengers to every tribe and clan of the New -England Confederacy bidding their warriors assemble at Montaup, and -already were a great number thus gathered. Among others Sassacus had -received a summons to this effect, but the fiery Pequot had determined -to disobey it and risk the consequences. Now, however, the coming of -Nahma had so changed the aspect of affairs that he gladly accepted the -invitation to present himself at Montaup accompanied by a strong body -of picked warriors. - -Miantinomo, who had feared that Sassacus more than any other might -rebel against his self-assumed authority, received him with effusive -hospitality. - -"Now do I know," he said, "that my undertaking against the arrogant -Iroquois will succeed, since they have no warriors to equal the -Pequots in bravery." - -"It is good that you esteem my young men so highly," replied Sassacus, -"and it is certain that they will do what may be to establish firmly -the power of the Peacemaker. I am also accompanied to Montaup by one -who will doubtless prove more welcome than all the others. He is a -medicine-man of the Saganaga, who brings to the Peacemaker a belt of -friendship from his people." - -"Say you so!" exclaimed Miantinomo, his dark face lighting with -pleasure, for an alliance with the Lenni Lenape of the south as well as -one with the Hurons of the north would render him invincible. "Where is -he? Why has he not already been brought to the lodge of council?" - -"He is an old man and weary, who secludes himself from the common gaze -in a lodge of skins that was pitched for him as soon as the canoes came -to land," replied Sassacus. "He desires not to make his message public, -since it is for your ears alone. For this reason he requests that a -new medicine-lodge be erected in which he may receive you in private -and with ceremonies befitting so important an occasion." - -"An old man say you?" inquired Miantinomo, doubtfully. - -"He has every appearance of extreme age and decrepitude." - -"Have you seen the belt that he bears?" - -"I have seen it, and know it to be a serpent-belt of the Saganaga. He -hopes also to take one from you, that his people may know his mission -to have been truly performed. If his terms be not granted, then with -his belt will he depart to the land of the Iroquois." - -"Without doubt I will grant all that he asks," replied Miantinomo, -hastily, "for a friendship with the Saganaga may not be thrown away. -At once shall a medicine-lodge be built, and when next the shadows are -shortest then will I meet him." - -"If it is your pleasure I will see to the building of the lodge," said -Sassacus. - -"It is my pleasure," answered the other, and with this the interview -ended. - -By noon of the following day the medicine-lodge, a simple affair of -poles and bark, stood finished on the edge of a cleared space that -formed the public gathering-place of Montaup. It was a mere shell bare -of all furnishings, as was noted by the many curious persons who peeped -in at its open doorway. The news that something of absorbing interest -was to take place within it had attracted a large assemblage to its -vicinity, where they waited with eager curiosity. - -At the same time there was but little mingling of those belonging to -the several tribes represented. The Narragansetts, with Miantinomo -seated in front of them, were grouped by themselves close to the lodge -but a little to one side. Although they outnumbered any of the visiting -delegations, they formed but a fraction of the whole gathering. - -Opposite to them and equally near the lodge stood the Pequots with the -plumed head of Sassacus towering above them, and beside him stood our -old acquaintance, Samoset. - -The Wampanoags were there in full force supported by a large delegation -of their near relatives, the Pokanokets. Besides these were -representatives of every New England tribe that had acknowledged the -authority of Longfeather. All were warriors, armed as for battle, and -headed by their most experienced chiefs. - -About half an hour before the sun attained his meridian a distant -chanting of voices, accompanied by the measured beating of -medicine-drums, announced the opening of the ceremonies, and a buzz of -expectation swept over the great assembly. - -Then appeared a procession of medicine-men clad in fantastic garb -calculated to inspire those who beheld it with awe. Most prominent -among them was an old man enveloped in a long robe of costly furs. He -was so feeble and bent with age that he leaned heavily upon a stick and -was also supported by two attendants. Directly in front of him walked a -boy, very proud of his honorable position, and bearing in outstretched -hands the wampum serpent-belt of the Saganaga so displayed that all -might see it. - -The procession halted before the lodge, while its members engaged in -a medicine-dance, circling with furious gestures and wild cries about -the central figure of the old man. Precisely at the hour of noon the -dancing came to an abrupt end, and the old medicine-man, taking from -the boy who had borne it the belt of the Saganaga, entered the empty -lodge alone. - -For a few minutes his voice was heard in the feeble chanting of an -incantation, and then it invited the presence of the Peacemaker. Upon -this Miantinomo stepped forth without hesitation and entered the lodge, -vanishing from sight beyond its heavy curtain of double deer-skins. -The light of the interior was so dim that for a moment he could see -nothing; then he made out the form of its solitary occupant standing -before him, and holding the belt that he believed was to confirm him -in his assumed position. The old man, leaning on his stick, was still -enveloped in the long robe that covered him from head to foot. - -Gazing steadfastly at Miantinomo, he said, sternly,-- - -"Why dost thou come here? I summoned Longfeather the Peacemaker." - -"He is dead," replied the other, "and I----" - -"Then should his son Nahma have come in his place," interrupted the old -man. - -"He, too, is dead," said Miantinomo; "that is," he added, hastily, "he -is dead to this people, for he is a traitor and dwells in the lodges of -their enemies." - -"Thou, then, art authorized to fill his place?" - -"I am so authorized by Canonicus, my father, and will seek to wipe out -the shame cast upon the name of Longfeather by his unworthy son." - -"Why, then, dost thou not wear the Peacemaker's badge of authority, the -great Belt of Seven Totems?" - -"Because it was stolen and carried away by Nahma the renegade." - -"Now do I know that thou liest!" exclaimed the old man with an energy -of voice as startling as it was unexpected. "Thou knowest, better than -any other, that the son of Longfeather was foully murdered while he -slept on the farther bank of the Shatemuc. Thou knowest that his body, -stripped of its badge of authority, was flung into the river. Thou -knowest that the Belt of Seven Totems, first used to blind the eyes of -Sacandaga, was afterwards sold to a white-faced trader that it might -disappear forever beyond the salt waters. Thou knowest who first put -in circulation the false tale that the son of Longfeather was a traitor -and a renegade. Thou knowest, and I know, for such things may not be -hid from the Okis. Also will I prove to thee that the dead may live, -and that evil designs may come to naught even when they seem most -likely to succeed. Look, then, and tremble, thou dog of a murderer." - -[Illustration: "LOOK, THEN, AND TREMBLE, THOU DOG OF A MURDERER"] - -With these words the dimly outlined form of the old man straightened -into erectness, his stick fell to the ground, he flung back his -enveloping robe, and at the same moment a slab of bark dropped from the -roof of the lodge, allowing a flood of noonday sunlight to stream on -the place where he stood. - -For an instant Miantinomo stared dumbly at the figure, young, tall, and -handsome, richly clad and wearing across its breast the Peacemaker's -Belt of Seven Totems, that gazed sternly at him with accusing eyes. -Then, with a great cry of terror, he rushed from the lodge and fled -like one who is pursued by a deadly vengeance in the direction of the -nearest forest. - -As the startled assemblage, gathered to witness his crowning triumph, -gazed after the flying figure in bewilderment, their attention was -further attracted, and they were thrilled by a shout of joyful amaze. -Instantly all eyes were again turned towards the lodge, where in place -of an old medicine-man stood a young chieftain, as noble a specimen of -his race as ever trod American soil. Depending from one shoulder was -the long-lost Belt of Seven Totems and from the other a serpent-belt of -the Saganaga. At his feet knelt Samoset, crying out that it was indeed -his brother and his master, Nahma, the son of Longfeather. - -"I am the son of Longfeather, and I was Nahma," said the young man, so -distinctly that all might hear. "But now and henceforth am I Massasoit -the Peacemaker." - -Upon this the whole assemblage, led by Sassacus and his loyal Pequots, -broke into a joyous tumult of welcome and crowded about the youth -who, so long lost to them, had been thus marvellously restored to -his rightful position. Only the Narragansetts took advantage of the -glad confusion to steal away unnoticed and follow the trail of their -dishonored leader. - - - - -CHAPTER XXVIII - -IN THE COUNCIL-LODGE - - -Massasoit could not relate the whole story of his adventurous -wanderings, since no Indian known to have been a slave might afterwards -be accepted as a leader among his people. Consequently he omitted -all reference to his unhappy experiences in England. Nor did he ever -mention that he had crossed the great salt waters; but he told of -his adventures among the Iroquois, as a captive to the Hurons, while -in Quebec, and on a ship that was to have carried him into slavery -among the Yengeese of the south. He described the destruction of that -ill-fated craft, together with the loss of her company, his own welcome -at the hands of the Saganaga, and his homeward journey, to all of which -the assemblage listened with breathless attention. In conclusion, the -young chieftain said,-- - -"I have told all there is to tell. When I left you Longfeather ruled -this land. He has gone from you never to return. I am his son, and it -was his wish that I should be Peacemaker in his place. If that be also -your desire, or if it be not, now is the time to speak. Will you have -Massasoit for your sagamore or another?" - -Standing very straight and gazing proudly about him, the young man -awaited an answer, and it was promptly given. First came Sassacus, -saying,-- - -"The Pequots accept Massasoit as their Peacemaker and will listen to -his words." - -After him in grave procession came the chiefs to tender their -allegiance; and a few days later the venerable Canonicus came also, for -Massasoit had not told that Miantinomo had attempted to murder him, and -so the Narragansetts were not yet outcast from the federation. - -Thus did Massasoit occupy his father's place in the great lodge of -council, while his authority was acknowledged from the Shatemuc to the -sea, and from the country of the Mohicans to that of the Hurons, who -dwelt near the great river of the north. - -With his position thus established, the young sachem, leaving Sassacus -to hold Montaup during his absence, set forth on an expedition of the -utmost importance both to himself and to his people. It had three -objects: first, to find his mother, who had fled from Miantinomo; -second, to restore the peaceful relations with the Iroquois that had -been threatened by the usurper; and last, but by no means least, to -visit the lodge of Kaweras. - -As a following worthy of his rank he took with him one hundred -warriors, and with these he pressed forward over the trail that he -had followed as a youth three years earlier. At the village of Peace, -on the river of sweet waters, he found Miantomet, and raised her -in a moment from the dejection of a childless fugitive to a proud -motherhood, with the son, whom she had so long mourned as dead, once -more restored to her. - -But only for a short time might these two enjoy their reunion, for -Massasoit found that whole section of country alarmed over an invasion -of Hurons, who were said to be coming down the valley of the Shatemuc -in formidable numbers. So he pushed on, hoping to form a junction with -the Iroquois before the common enemy should arrive. - -The eastern Iroquois or Maquas were hard beset. Two powerful -expeditions had descended at once upon the country of the Five Nations. -One, under leadership of our old acquaintance Champlain, had crossed -Lake Ontario, penetrated deep into the territory of the Oneidas, and -was supposed to be advancing upon the Maquas from the west. Another -expedition, accompanied by three white men, was coming from the north -by way of the Shatemuc, and already were fugitives flying before -them to the palisaded villages, bringing sad tales of rapine and -destruction. As though this state of affairs were not bad enough, it -was reported that the New England tribes, led by Miantinomo, were -advancing from the east. Thus it seemed as though the Maquas were -doomed to destruction, and a feeling of despair had seized upon the -warriors gathered for the defence of their three palisaded strongholds. - -One night, during this unhappy condition of suspense, a group of -chief men were seated about a small fire in the council-house of -the easternmost village, gloomily discussing the situation. News had -come that the enemy was close at hand, and that the village would be -assaulted by overwhelming numbers on the morrow. So oppressed were -the councillors by the hopelessness of their situation that for some -time they sat in silence, and one among them appeared to be dozing, as -though exhausted. - -Suddenly this one, who was our old friend Kaweras, awoke, uttering an -exclamation of pleasure, and looked about him with smiling cheerfulness. - -"What pleases my brother?" asked he who sat nearest. "Has he seen a -vision of the spirit land to which all of us will go before the setting -of another sun?" - -"No," replied Kaweras. "It is not yet time for visions of the spirit -land." - -"How so, when even the youngest warrior knows that we are in no -condition to withstand an attack of the Hurons and of those armed with -thunder-sticks who accompany them?" - -"It is because he who is to deliver us even now approaches, and in a -vision have I seen him." - -"Comes he from the west, and is he the Wild-Cat of the Oneidas?" - -"No. He is from the east, and more powerful than the Wild-Cat or any -other single chieftain of the Iroquois. He is not of us, but he has -already fought with us. I have known him, but until now I have not -known him. Whence he comes or how he has passed our young men I know -not, but even now he is at hand. Behold, he is here!" - -The old man had risen to his feet in his excitement, and now stood -staring eagerly at the skin-hung entrance. - -As he finished speaking the curtain was drawn aside and a young -warrior stepped within the lodge. He advanced to where the firelight -fell full upon his face, and then stood motionless as though awaiting -recognition. Nor was it long in coming, for, after a moment of silence, -Kaweras stepped forward with extended hand, uttering the single word, -"Massasoit." - -"Yes, my father, it is Massasoit," was the reply; but the old man -hardly noticed what was said, for his eye had fallen on a belt worn by -the new-comer, and he was studying its devices with an expression of -amazement. Finally he said, in a low tone,-- - -"It is the Belt of Seven Totems, the great colier of the Peacemaker." - -"And I," responded Massasoit, "am the Peacemaker, since I was Nahma, -son of Longfeather. For thy exceeding kindness to me in other days am I -now come with a war-party to help the people of Sacandaga in their time -of trouble." - -"How came he inside our walls?" asked one of the chiefs, suspiciously. - -"That will I tell at another time," replied Massasoit. "Now there are -things of more importance to be considered." - -The young man did not care to acknowledge that Aeana had given him -admittance, but so it was. He had left his warriors in concealment at -some distance from the village while he went alone to discover the -exact state of affairs. - -That same afternoon, before warning of the near approach of the Hurons -had been given, he had seen several women go to a small stream for -water, and recognized Aeana among them. After a while he managed to -toss a small packet so that it fell at her feet. Glancing about with a -startled air, the girl picked it up, and found in it the embroidered -tinder-bag that she had concealed in her sister's gift to Massasoit -so long ago that she had almost forgotten the incident. As she gazed -at the token, hardly knowing whether to be frightened or pleased, the -low call of a wood-dove attracted her attention to a nearby thicket. -Hesitatingly she moved close enough to hear the whispered words, "Be -not afraid. I am here as a friend to help the Maquas against their -enemies; but first I would see Kaweras. At moon-setting will I come -alone to the gate, and I rely upon thee to give me admittance." - -Outwardly calm, but with a wildly fluttering heart, Aeana rejoined -her companions without having been for an instant out of their sight, -and returned with them to the village. There she debated long with -herself as to whether she should tell her father or Otshata of what -had happened; but, until the time of moon-setting, she had not found -courage to do so. She had not meant to admit the young warrior without -their knowledge, especially as news had come, within an hour, of the -near approach of the Hurons; but a will stronger than her own seemed -to compel her, and finally she did as Massasoit desired. Then, sadly -frightened, she whispered, "In the council-house is Kaweras," and fled -away into the darkness, leaving the young man to discover his bearings -as best he might. - -Having at length gained the council-lodge and being received as -already stated, Massasoit was compelled to answer many questions -before securing the confidence of all the chiefs. Little by little, -however, it was acquired. Kaweras told what he knew of him. The belt -that he wore was a potent influence; and finally one, who had been -with Sacandaga at the time of his death, recognized the young man as -he who had risked his own life to save that of the Iroquois chieftain. -After that they listened with closest attention to all he had to say. -Thus, before he left them, he had outlined a plan of operations for -the morrow, or whenever the Hurons should make an attack, that they -promised to follow. - -Massasoit also instructed the Iroquois as to the nature of fire-arms, -which they had heretofore regarded with all the terror of ignorance. He -described the manner in which the thunder-sticks must be loaded before -becoming effective as weapons, and assured his hearers that, after -being discharged, they were for a long time no more dangerous than so -many wooden billets. Having thus restored a cheerful confidence to the -council, the young chieftain departed and made his way to where his own -warriors anxiously awaited him. - -Immediately upon rejoining these, and without pausing to rest, he led -them on a long detour, so that, before daylight, they had gained a -position in the rear of the Hurons, by whom the presence of the young -Peacemaker was as yet unsuspected. - -With the rising of the sun hundreds of dark forms might have been seen -gliding stealthily from tree to tree in the direction of the Maqua -village. At a short interval behind the last of these came another -group moving in the same direction, but with even greater caution. -Foremost among them was Massasoit, leading his people in an enterprise -that would make or mar his own reputation for all future time. - -Suddenly the morning stillness of the forest was rudely broken by the -roar of three muskets fired in quick succession, and the battle was -begun. - - - - -CHAPTER XXIX - -WINNING A BATTLE, A WIFE, AND A FRIEND - - -Upon the advice of Massasoit, the Iroquois had set up dummies to draw -the musket-fire of the enemy; also most of their young men had been -placed in ambush outside the walls. These, though few in number as -compared with the advancing host of Hurons, sprang to their feet with -frightful yells and rushed towards the place marked by the smoke of the -now empty muskets. They seemed doomed to certain destruction, and the -Hurons calmly awaited their coming. All at once, and without warning, a -flight of arrows from the rear brought a score of the invaders to the -ground, and at the same moment the woods behind them seemed alive with -yelling foemen. - -For a few minutes the bewildered Hurons, thus entrapped, fought -desperately. Then the three white men, who were objects of Massasoit's -especial vengeance, were killed while hurriedly endeavoring to reload -their muskets. As they fell their savage allies, who had until now -regarded them as invincible, broke into a panic-stricken flight, each -man endeavoring only to save himself. After them raced Massasoit and -his warriors, together with the jubilant Iroquois, and many and fierce -were the hand-to-hand conflicts that took place in the dim forest -coverts that day. At its close, when the wearied but exultant victors -gathered once more at the wildly rejoicing village, their trophies of -scalps and prisoners outnumbered their combined forces. - -The following week was devoted to the wildest forms of savage -festivity, and the rejoicings were redoubled near its close by the -arrival of a runner from the west, bringing the great news that the -other invading force under Champlain had been defeated and driven back -by the Onondagas and Oneidas. - -In all this time of feasting Massasoit was the hero and central figure. -Not only had he saved the Maqua village and probably the whole tribe -from destruction, but, on that day of fighting, he had proved himself -the foremost warrior of his people and had brought in more Huron -scalps than any other. - -He found no difficulty in forming a compact with the Iroquois on behalf -of his own people, by which both were bound not to cross the Shatemuc -except for friendly visits. Thus our young chieftain would have been -supremely happy but for one thing, and that was his treatment at the -hands of Aeana. - -This girl, who now seemed the most beautiful and desirable of all -earthly creatures, behaved to him in a manner so strange that he could -in no wise account for it. Not only did she refuse to grant him an -interview, but she studiously avoided meeting him, and went no longer -with the other women to the stream for water. Thus he had not been able -to exchange a single word with her, and as the time for his departure -drew near he was in despair. In his distress he sought out Otshata, as -he had done once before, and, pouring out his heart, asked her what he -should do. - -Otshata laughed in his face. "What fools men be!" she said. "Dost thou -not remember, Massasoit, the time when she bade thee fetch water?" - -"Well do I remember." - -"And thou performed the service?" - -"Truly, I did, even as she bade me." - -"And she scorned the offering when it was brought to her?" - -"Even so, and taunted me with the name of 'squaw.'" - -"Remembering that, art thou still at a loss to know why she now refuses -to meet thee?" - -"To my confusion, I am," replied the puzzled youth. - -At this Otshata laughed again long and heartily; but at length she -asked,-- - -"Didst thou ever know a woman to accept friendship with a slave when a -master might be had?" - -Then, still laughing, she ran away, leaving the young man to ponder her -words. - -As a result of this conversation, Massasoit announced that he and his -warriors would depart for their own country on the morrow, and at -daylight of the next morning they had disappeared. That day Aeana, -heavy-hearted and with lagging step, went with the other women -for water. As she bent over the stream an exclamation from one of -her companions caused her to look up and directly into the eyes of -Massasoit, who stood on the opposite bank. - -With a shrill cry of dismay, Aeana turned and fled towards the village; -but, swiftly as she ran, Massasoit overtook her ere she had covered -half the distance. Seizing her in his arms, he picked her up and, -despite her struggles, bore her swiftly away. On the edge of the wood -he paused to utter a far-carrying yell of triumph, and then, still -bearing his precious burden, he disappeared amid the leafy shadows. - -But his defiant challenge was answered, and half a dozen young -Iroquois, all of whom were aspirants for the hand of the arrow-maker's -beautiful daughter, dashed forth in hot pursuit. This race for a bride -was over a forest course something more than a mile in length. At its -farther end was the Shatemuc and a waiting canoe containing a single -occupant. As Massasoit gained this and it was shoved off, the foremost -of his pursuers was so close that he fell into the water in a vain -effort to grasp the elusive craft. - -Beyond the river the Iroquois might not pass by the terms of their -recent treaty, and thus on its farther side, Massasoit felt his prize -to be as secure as though he already had her at Montaup. - -As they stepped out on the land that acknowledged the son of -Longfeather to be its ruler, Aeana regarded the bold youth with eyes -that laughed even through their tears, and said, "I hate you; but if -you had not done it, then should I have despised you forever." - -So Massasoit won his bride, and in far-away Montaup, beside the great -salt waters that bathe the rising sun, no woman led a happier life than -did the daughter of Kaweras. - -After this several years were passed in peaceful content by those -New England tribes owning the rule of Massasoit. With his superior -knowledge of the world he was able to teach them many things that -caused them to prosper as never before. Only was he worried by the -Narragansetts, who, while sullenly admitting his authority, awaited -eagerly an opportunity to renounce and defy it. - -In the mean time Aeana had presented the Peacemaker with two sons, the -younger of whom, named Metacomet, was to become famous in after-years -as King Philip. - -With all his peace and apparent security Massasoit had one ever-present -fear, and it was of the white man. He had a knowledge greater than any -of his people concerning the number and power of these dwellers beyond -the sea, and he dreaded lest they should seek to obtain a foothold in -his country, as they had already done both on the St. Lawrence and the -James. As one measure of precaution against this he issued orders to -every New England tribe that they should hold no intercourse with any -whites attempting to trade on the coast. So determined was he to carry -out this policy that when an unfortunate French trading vessel was -wrecked on a shore of Massachusetts Bay, he caused her to be burned, -and commanded that all survivors of her crew be put to death. - -Holding these views, Massasoit became very angry when it was reported -to him that the Narragansetts, in defiance of his authority, were -actively trading with an English ship that had appeared on their -coast, and he at once determined to make an example that should be -remembered. - -A runner was despatched to his trusted ally Sassacus, whose country -lay beyond that of the Narragansetts, ordering the Pequots to advance -from the west until they should meet Massasoit coming from the opposite -direction. Then, gathering a strong force from the tribes near at hand, -the Peacemaker set forth for the scene of unlawful trading. - -So demoralized were the Narragansetts by the simultaneous appearance of -two powerful war-parties within their borders that they offered only a -slight resistance before fleeing to their palisaded stronghold, where -they anxiously awaited the expected attack. - -In the mean time the captain of the English vessel, which was snugly -anchored in the mouth of a small river, where he had been carrying on a -brisk and most profitable trade with the Indians, was disgusted to have -it suddenly cease. For days a fleet of canoes had surrounded his ship. -Now not one was to be seen, nor could any of the natives be discovered -on shore. His recent great success had been largely due to the fact -that he had on board an English-speaking Indian, through whom all -negotiations had been conducted. When a whole day had passed without -change in the situation the captain consulted with this Indian, and -asked what he supposed had become of the natives. - -"They be fearful to come off since they have learn that you steal red -men for slaves," was the answer. - -"Ho, ho! Is that all? But think you, Squanto, that they have any furs -left?" - -"Me think they keep back many of the best." - -"By the Lord Harry! Then must we go to them, since they are afraid to -come to us. Boat away, there! And, Squanto, you may come too if you -will promise to make no attempt at escape." - -"These be not my people," replied the Indian, evasively. - -"That's so. I picked you up at a great distance from here. But never -mind. If you serve me truly perhaps I will take you back there some -day. Attempt to play me false, though, and I will kill you as I would -a rat. Tumble in, then, and let us hie ashore." - -It was a strong boat's crew and heavily armed that thus made a landing -in search of the trade which no longer came to their ship, and they -followed a plainly marked trail leading from the beach to the place -where had been an Indian village. Now it was deserted and void of life, -though their guide announced that it had been occupied as recently as a -few hours before. - -While the new-comers were prowling about with hopes of discovering -something in the way of plunder, their attention was distracted by a -column of smoke rising in the direction of their boat. They had left -it hauled partially out of the water and in charge of two well-armed -men. Now, hastening back, they were panic-stricken by the discovery -that the boat was in flames. It was also badly crushed, as though it -had been lifted bodily and dropped on a ledge of sharp rocks. Worst of -all, it contained the dead bodies of those who had been left on guard. -The weapons of both men were missing, and they had been scalped but not -otherwise mutilated. - -Taking advantage of the confusion following this discovery, the Indian -guide dove into a nearby thicket and disappeared. A minute later, -while the whites were huddled about their burning boat attempting to -extinguish the flames, a great flight of arrows, that seemed to come -from every direction at once, instantly killed more than half their -number. Then came a rush of yelling savages, and in another minute but -one man was left alive. He was wounded, but his life had been spared by -the express order of Massasoit. - -The Indian guide had been made prisoner, bound, and left to himself; -but now that all was over, the young leader, ordering his warriors to -remain behind, went to him. Stooping, he severed the prisoner's bonds -and assisted him to his feet. Then gazing steadily at him, he cried in -a voice that trembled with emotion,-- - -"Tasquanto, my brother, dost thou not remember Massasoit?" - - - - -CHAPTER XXX - -THE PILGRIMS OF PLYMOUTH - - -Since being separated from Massasoit years before in Plymouth harbor, -Tasquanto, whose name the English had shortened to "Squanto," had known -nothing of the fate of his fellow-captive beyond that he had been sold -as a slave in London. In the mean time he had been received into the -household of Sir Ferdinando Gorges, Governor of Plymouth, who had large -interests in the New World, and had been taught to speak English. Then -he was sent on trading-vessels to act as interpreter between whites and -Indians. In this capacity he had made several voyages to America, but -always so closely guarded that never until now had he been allowed to -set foot on his native shores. - -Tasquanto was so overcome at finding in the great sachem Massasoit, -concerning whom he had heard much, his own long-lost friend that -for a few moments he was speechless with joyful amazement. When he -had succeeded in partially expressing this, he related briefly how -he happened to be in his present situation, and added that the cruel -taskmaster from whom he had just escaped was the same Captain Dermer -who had formerly betrayed them into slavery. - -"I knew it when first I saw him this morning," replied Massasoit, -grimly, "for his evil face has ever been pictured in my heart. For that -reason have I spared his worthless life until I could consult with -thee, my brother, as to how we may best deal with him." - -"Did you, then, know me also?" asked Tasquanto. - -"The moment I set eyes on thee. Those white dogs had been slain an hour -sooner but for thy presence among them and a fear of doing thee harm. -Now, what say you? Shall this man be delivered to the tormentors, or -shall he be killed where he lies? It is certain that his punishment -must be great, for he has earned all that may be given. Also I do not -care that he should recognize me and spread the report that I was once -his slave, for that would shame me in the eyes of my people. Thou, too, -must ever keep secret the matter of my having crossed the salt waters." - -"I will remember," replied Tasquanto. "As for this white man, I would -crop his ears with the same brand of ownership that he has placed upon -many an Indian captured and sold into slavery. Then would I let him -sail away in his own ship as a warning to all other white men. Death he -deserves, since he has treated many of our people to death and worse, -but to him the shame of cropped ears will be even more bitter than -death." - -So favorably was Massasoit impressed with this idea that he ordered it -carried out at once. Thus, half an hour later, the brutal Dermer, who -had done so much to cause the name of Englishman to be hated in the -New World, was set adrift in a canoe, minus both his ears, and allowed -to depart to his own ship. It is recorded in history that he reached -Virginia, where he soon afterwards died from wounds received at the -hands of New England savages. - -Having thus satisfactorily concluded one part of his undertaking, -Massasoit next turned his attention to the rebel Narragansetts. -Moving his entire force against their stronghold, he demanded that all -goods received from the English should be delivered up, and also that -Miantinomo should come to his camp, bringing a chief's belt in token -of submission. Massasoit swore that, in case his demands were refused, -he would not depart from that place until every rebel in the fort was -destroyed. So mild were these terms in comparison with what had been -expected that they were instantly accepted, and a cruel war between -neighbors was averted. - -With peace thus restored, the authority of Massasoit over the great -territory, already named New England by Captain John Smith, was so -firmly established that until the day of his death it was never again -questioned. - -But if one of his two chief causes for anxiety was thus removed, the -other was looming ominously near. Some six months after Tasquanto's -escape from his long captivity a little English ship, buffeted by -winter gales of the North Atlantic, was slowly approaching the American -coast. Although only of one hundred and fifty tons' burden, or about -the size of a small coasting schooner of to-day, she carried one -hundred passengers besides her crew and an immense quantity of freight. - -For three months had her passengers--men, women, and children--been on -board the overcrowded little craft, and they were sick for a sight of -land. Their destination was the mouth of the Shatemuc or Hudson River, -but their first landfall, made under a cold December sky, was the bluff -headland, stretching far out to sea like a beckoning finger, that -Gosnold, some twenty years earlier, had named the Cape of Cods. From -here the ship was headed southward towards her destination, but soon -became involved in a labyrinth of shoals covered with roaring breakers. -Also she was beaten by adverse gales until her weary company hailed -with joy her captain's decision to run back to the safe shelter of Cape -Cod. Here, in what is now the harbor of Provincetown, the sea-worn -strangers disembarked, so profoundly happy at finding themselves once -more on land that the wooded wilderness seemed a paradise. - -They had come to establish homes in the New World, and though -disappointed at not gaining the more southerly latitude for which they -had set out, they now determined to remain where they were, since it -was too late in the season for further explorations. Still, they spent -two weeks in examination of the country close at hand, and finally -selected a site for settlement across the bay enclosed by Cape Cod. -Here was a good harbor, plenty of fresh water, and much land already -cleared of forest growth by its former Indian occupants. - -They named this place "Plymouth" after the last English port from which -they had sailed, and on Christmas day began the work of building houses. - -During that winter half of these stout-hearted settlers died, so that -in the early spring only fifty persons, enfeebled by the sickness from -which but seven had wholly escaped, remained to make good their claim -to the land they had thus seized. - -During all this time the colonists had not encountered any of the -native owners of the soil, though they had caught occasional glimpses -of vanishing forms, and often saw signal-fires or smokes that denoted -the presence of watchful observers. - -In spite of these things they did not hesitate to appropriate Indian -property wherever they found it. Thus, when they discovered hidden -stores of corn and parched acorns, laid by for winter use, they -promptly removed them to Plymouth. Also whenever they ran across an -Indian lodge, they took from it everything that seemed to them of -value. They even robbed Indian graves of their sacred relics, and these -things were reported to Massasoit by his scouts. - -From the first appearance of the _Mayflower_ on the stormy horizon he -had known of all its movements. He had been relieved when it started -southward, and was greatly disturbed by its return to Cape Cod. He -was also much puzzled to account for the doings of its company, since -evidently they were neither traders nor fishermen. Why had they brought -women and children with them? Also why had they in the first place -attempted to sail to the southward, if his country was the place -they were seeking? He finally decided that they must be bound for the -Virginia settlement of white men, and were only waiting until the -winter storms were over before resuming their voyage to the country of -Powhatan. - -This decision eased Massasoit's mind, for, while he was determined that -no whites should settle within his boundaries, he was also averse to -unnecessary bloodshed. So he awaited patiently the departure that he -believed the strangers would make with the coming of warmer weather. -If they did not so depart, he knew that he could wipe them out of -existence as easily as he could crush a worm that came in his path. - -Thus forbearing to disturb them, he waited and watched, receiving -almost daily reports from his scouts, who at all times lurked in the -vicinity of the feeble settlement. He heard with grim satisfaction of -their rapid decrease in numbers, and grew wroth at their violation of -Indian graves and their appropriation of unguarded Indian property. -Still he forbore to molest them, but as spring drew near he sent -Samoset to learn how soon they intended to depart. - -To his dismay this messenger brought back word that the English had no -intention of ever again leaving the place where they had established -themselves. - -"Then must I remind them that I have no desire for their presence," -quoth Massasoit, and at once he sent out runners to gather a large -force of warriors in the vicinity of Plymouth. Accompanied by a -body-guard of sixty men, the sachem himself hastened to the place of -rendezvous and established a camp, from which he sent Tasquanto among -the whites to learn in detail their strength and intentions. - -With his ready command of English and his knowledge of white men's -customs, gained by painful experience, Tasquanto or "Squanto," as he -now called himself, found no difficulty in gaining all the information -he desired from the strangers. He even learned their names and the -relative rank held by their leading men. - -When Tasquanto returned and reported these things, he mentioned one -name that caused Massasoit to start and betray symptoms of great -agitation. - -"Art thou certain that one among them is so called?" he asked. - -"I am certain," replied Tasquanto. - -"Then go quickly and ask that man, as he values his own life and that -of his people, to meet me alone by the big pine that looks down upon -his lodges. I will be there unaccompanied. Stay! Take to him this belt -that it may be to him a token of safe-conduct and true speaking." - -With this Massasoit removed from his own person the great Belt of Seven -Totems and handed it to Tasquanto. He also instructed the latter to -withdraw beyond earshot when he had conducted the white man to the -place of meeting. - -Half an hour later Massasoit, with unpainted face and simply clad, -stood alone at the foot of the great pine, looking down on the group -of poor little huts that sheltered the feeble English remnant. Within -a mile of the place were gathered five hundred warriors awaiting but a -signal from him to utterly destroy the helpless settlement. - -Then to him came an Englishman, young, sturdy, and heavily bearded. -As he approached within a few paces he halted and examined the Indian -curiously, for he had been told that he was to meet a sachem who was -ruler of many tribes. - -On the other hand, Massasoit gazed into the bearded face of the white -man with an eagerness that was almost disconcerting. Then, as though -satisfied with his scrutiny, he extended a hand, exclaiming as he did -so,-- - -"Winslow! My frien' Winslow!" - -For a moment the other hesitated, then his face lighted joyously as he -grasped the proffered hand in both of his, crying,-- - -"Massasoit? They told me the name of the mighty chieftain was -Massasoit, but never did I suspect that he was the friend whom I had -found and lost in London." - -For an hour the two, thus strangely brought together after years of -distant wanderings, held converse with each other while the fate of the -New World hung upon their words. When their conversation was finally -ended, Winslow had promised never to reveal the fact that the proud -sachem had once been bought and sold as a slave in England. He had also -promised that the colony to which he belonged should never commit an -act of aggression against the people of Massasoit, but that his friends -should be their friends and his enemies their enemies. - -On his part, and out of an abounding gratitude for the only friendship -shown him at a time when he stood most in need of friends, Massasoit -agreed that the poor little English settlement should be allowed to -exist, and, moreover, promised to protect it from its enemies to the -full extent of his power. - -Then the two parted, the one to go back to his wondering warriors -and dismiss them to their homes, the other to carry the glad news -into Plymouth that the great Massasoit was ready to make a treaty of -friendly alliance with his English neighbors. - -So on the morrow Governor Carver, accompanied by Winslow, sturdy Myles -Standish, and others of his principal men, met Massasoit. Then, after -much feasting and an exchange of courtesies, they mutually signed a -treaty of friendship that remained unbroken for upward of half a -century from that memorable date. - -Thus was the crumb of bread once cast upon troubled waters by Edward -Winslow returned to him again with a thousand-fold of increase after -many days. - -Thus also did Nahma, son of Longfeather, now become Massasoit, wearer -of the Belt of Seven Totems, make possible and establish forever the -white man's settlement of New England. - - * * * * * * - -N. B. When the good ship _Mayflower_ returned to England from that her -most memorable voyage to the New World she bore in her cargo a packet -of richest furs, together with many specimens of dainty beadwork, -consigned to Lady Betty Effingham, who dwelt near to Bristol, England, -with goodly wishes from her friend and humble servant, Massasoit. - - - - -+-------------------------------------------------+ -|Transcriber's note: | -| | -|Obvious typographic errors have been corrected. | -| | -+-------------------------------------------------+ - - - -***END OF THE PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK THE BELT OF SEVEN TOTEMS*** - - -******* This file should be named 62684-8.txt or 62684-8.zip ******* - - -This and all associated files of various formats will be found in: -http://www.gutenberg.org/dirs/6/2/6/8/62684 - - -Updated editions will replace the previous one--the old editions will -be renamed. - -Creating the works from print editions not protected by U.S. copyright -law 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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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 <a -href="http://www.gutenberg.org">www.gutenberg.org</a>. If you are not -located in the United States, you'll have to check the laws of the -country where you are located before using this ebook.</p> -<p>Title: The Belt of Seven Totems</p> -<p> A Story of Massasoit</p> -<p>Author: Kirk Munroe</p> -<p>Release Date: July 17, 2020 [eBook #62684]</p> -<p>Language: English</p> -<p>Character set encoding: ISO-8859-1</p> -<p>***START OF THE PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK THE BELT OF SEVEN TOTEMS***</p> -<p> </p> -<h4 class="pgx" title="">E-text prepared by Martin Pettit<br /> - and the Online Distributed Proofreading Team<br /> - (<a href="http://www.pgdp.net">http://www.pgdp.net</a>)<br /> - from page images generously made available by<br /> - Internet Archive<br /> - (<a href="https://archive.org">https://archive.org</a>)</h4> -<p> </p> -<p> </p> -<table border="0" style="background-color: #ccccff;margin: 0 auto;" cellpadding="10"> - <tr> - <td valign="top"> - Note: - </td> - <td> - Images of the original pages are available through - Internet Archive. See - <a href="https://archive.org/details/beltofseventotem00munr"> - https://archive.org/details/beltofseventotem00munr</a> - </td> - </tr> -</table> -<p> </p> -<hr class="pgx" /> -<p> </p> -<p> </p> -<p> </p> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_1" id="Page_1">[Pg 1]</a></span></p> - -<p class="bold2"><i>THE BELT OF SEVEN TOTEMS</i></p> - -<p class="bold">NINTH IMPRESSION</p> - -<hr /> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_2" id="Page_2">[Pg 2]</a></span></p> - -<div class="center"><img src="images/books.jpg" alt="BOOKS BOYS LIKE" /></div> - -<hr /> - -<div class="center"><a name="i004.jpg" id="i004.jpg"></a><img src="images/i004.jpg" alt="Frontispiece" /></div> - -<p class="bold">HE WAS SEIZED BY TWO PAIR OF BRAWNY HANDS AND <br />DRAGGED -INBOARD <span class="s3"> </span> <a href="#Page_193">Page 193</a></p> - -<hr /> - -<div class="center"><img src="images/title.jpg" alt="Title page" /></div> - -<hr /> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_3" id="Page_3">[Pg 3]</a></span></p> - -<h1><i>THE BELT of SEVEN TOTEMS</i></h1> - -<p class="bold"><i><span class="smcap">A Story of Massasoit</span></i></p> - -<p class="bold space-above"><i>By</i></p> - -<p class="bold2"><i>KIRK MUNROE</i></p> - -<p class="bold"><i>Author of "Under the Great Bear," "Brethren of the<br /> -Coast," "Rick Dale," "Forward March,"<br /> -"The 'Mates'' Series," etc.</i></p> - -<p class="bold space-above"><i>ILLUSTRATED BY<br />EMLEN McCONNELL</i></p> - -<div class="center space-above"><img src="images/logo.jpg" alt="Logo" /></div> - -<p class="bold space-above"><i>PHILADELPHIA & LONDON</i><br /> -<i>J. B. LIPPINCOTT COMPANY</i></p> - -<hr /> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_4" id="Page_4">[Pg 4]</a></span></p> - -<p class="center">COPYRIGHT, 1901, BY KIRK MUNROE</p> - -<p class="center space-above">PRINTED BY J. B. LIPPINCOTT COMPANY<br /> -AT THE WASHINGTON SQUARE PRESS<br />PHILADELPHIA, U. S. A.</p> - -<hr /> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_5" id="Page_5">[Pg 5]</a></span></p> - -<h2><i>TO MY READERS</i></h2> - -<div class="center"><img src="images/iacorn.jpg" alt="decoration" /></div> - - -<p>The following story is not intended as a history; it is merely an -effort to reconcile certain apparently conflicting facts and to explain -an otherwise inexplicable situation. At the time of the Pilgrim Fathers -all American Indians—not excepting those of New England—had suffered -repeated outrage at the hands of white men, and in no case had they -been given cause to love the invaders of their country or to welcome -their presence. Why, then, did the powerful Massasoit permit a white -invasion of his territory that he could so easily have crushed? A -friendship existed from the very first between him and Edward Winslow, -and the latter seems to have exercised a great influence over the -New England sachem. What was the origin of this friendship? The -Narragansetts, while submitting to Massasoit's authority, were always -in sullen opposition to it. Why? It is to answer these questions to<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_6" id="Page_6">[Pg 6]</a></span> my -own satisfaction that I have constructed the theory herewith advanced.</p> - -<p>Many New England natives were kidnapped and taken to various parts -of Europe. Why might not Massasoit have been among them? The wampum -belt, on which was pictured the distinguishing totems of seven leading -New England clans, was worn by both Massasoit and Metacomet (King -Philip), his son, and is still in existence. Tasquanto (Squanto) was -kidnapped from Cape Cod and taken to England, where he remained for -several years. Captain Dermer carried a number of native Americans to -London, where he sold them to be exhibited as curiosities. He finally -died of wounds received at the hands of New England Indians. Champlain -did aid a war-party of Hurons to defeat the Iroquois in one instance, -and in another was defeated by the same foe. Thus, while my story is -admittedly fictional, it has a substantial historical basis.</p> - -<p class="right"><span class="smcap">Kirk Munroe.</span></p> - -<hr /> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_7" id="Page_7">[Pg 7]</a></span></p> - -<h2><i>CONTENTS</i></h2> - -<div class="center"><img src="images/iacorn.jpg" alt="decoration" /></div> - -<table summary="CONTENTS"> - <tr> - <td colspan="2" class="left"><span class="smaller">CHAPTER</span></td> - <td><span class="smaller">PAGE</span></td> - </tr> - <tr> - <td>I. </td> - <td class="left"><span class="smcap">The Village of Peace</span></td> - <td><a href="#Page_9">9</a></td> - </tr> - <tr> - <td>II. </td> - <td class="left"><span class="smcap">Canonicus makes Trouble</span></td> - <td><a href="#Page_18">18</a></td> - </tr> - <tr> - <td>III. </td> - <td class="left"><span class="smcap">At the Crossing of the Shatemuc</span></td> - <td><a href="#Page_28">28</a></td> - </tr> - <tr> - <td>IV. </td> - <td class="left"><span class="smcap">The Belt changes Hands</span></td> - <td><a href="#Page_38">38</a></td> - </tr> - <tr> - <td>V. </td> - <td class="left"><span class="smcap">What the Daughters of Kaweras found</span></td> - <td><a href="#Page_50">50</a></td> - </tr> - <tr> - <td>VI. </td> - <td class="left"><span class="smcap">In the Lodge of the Arrow-Maker</span></td> - <td><a href="#Page_60">60</a></td> - </tr> - <tr> - <td>VII. </td> - <td class="left"><span class="smcap">Nahma joins a War-Party</span></td> - <td><a href="#Page_70">70</a></td> - </tr> - <tr> - <td>VIII. </td> - <td class="left"><span class="smcap">Two Young Scouts</span></td> - <td><a href="#Page_81">81</a></td> - </tr> - <tr> - <td>IX. </td> - <td class="left"><span class="smcap">On the Lake</span></td> - <td><a href="#Page_91">91</a></td> - </tr> - <tr> - <td>X. </td> - <td class="left"><span class="smcap">An Oki of the Waters</span></td> - <td><a href="#Page_101">101</a></td> - </tr> - <tr> - <td>XI. </td> - <td class="left"><span class="smcap">The Coming of Sacandaga</span></td> - <td><a href="#Page_111">111</a></td> - </tr> - <tr> - <td>XII. </td> - <td class="left"><span class="smcap">A Meeting of Deadly Foes</span></td> - <td><a href="#Page_121">121</a></td> - </tr> - <tr> - <td>XIII. </td> - <td class="left"><span class="smcap">To the Lodges of the White Man</span></td> - <td><a href="#Page_131">131</a></td> - </tr> - <tr> - <td>XIV. </td> - <td class="left"><span class="smcap">Two Inmates of a Guard-House</span></td> - <td><a href="#Page_141">141</a></td> - </tr> - <tr> - <td>XV. </td> - <td class="left"><span class="smcap">The Bitter Winter of Canada</span></td> - <td><a href="#Page_151">151</a></td> - </tr> - <tr> - <td>XVI. </td> - <td class="left"><span class="smcap">A Dash for Liberty</span></td> - <td><a href="#Page_162">162</a></td> - </tr> - <tr> - <td>XVII. </td> - <td class="left"><span class="smcap">A Death-Dealing Thunder-Stick</span></td> - <td><a href="#Page_172">172</a></td> - </tr> - <tr> - <td>XVIII. </td> - <td class="left"><span class="smcap">Kidnapped</span></td> - <td><a href="#Page_183">183</a></td> - </tr> - <tr> - <td>XIX. </td> - <td class="left"><span class="smcap">Sold as a Slave</span></td> - <td><a href="#Page_194">194</a></td> - </tr> - <tr> - <td>XX. </td> - <td class="left"><span class="smcap">One Friendly Face</span></td> - <td><a href="#Page_206">206</a></td> - </tr> - <tr> - <td>XXI. </td> - <td class="left"><span class="smcap">A Change of Masters</span></td> - <td><a href="#Page_217">217</a></td> - </tr> - <tr> - <td>XXII. </td> - <td class="left"><span class="smcap">Nahma and the Bear run away</span></td> - <td><a href="#Page_228">228</a></td> - </tr> - <tr> - <td>XXIII. </td> - <td class="left"><span class="smcap">An Honored Guest</span></td> - <td><a href="#Page_238">238</a></td> - </tr> - <tr> - <td>XXIV. </td> - <td class="left"><span class="smcap">Nahma remembers</span></td> - <td><a href="#Page_248">248</a></td> - </tr> - <tr> - <td>XXV. </td> - <td class="left"><span class="smcap">Back to America</span></td> - <td><a href="#Page_259">259</a></td> - </tr> - <tr> - <td>XXVI. </td> - <td class="left"><span class="smcap">Sassacus the Pequot</span></td> - <td><a href="#Page_270">270</a></td> - </tr> - <tr> - <td>XXVII. </td> - <td class="left"><span class="smcap">A Royal Home-Coming</span></td> - <td><a href="#Page_281">281</a></td> - </tr> - <tr> - <td>XXVIII. </td> - <td class="left"><span class="smcap">In the Council-Lodge</span></td> - <td><a href="#Page_292">292</a></td> - </tr> - <tr> - <td>XXIX. </td> - <td class="left"><span class="smcap">Winning a Battle, a Wife, and a Friend</span></td> - <td><a href="#Page_303">303</a></td> - </tr> - <tr> - <td>XXX. </td> - <td class="left"><span class="smcap">The Pilgrims of Plymouth</span></td> - <td><a href="#Page_314">314</a></td> - </tr> -</table> - -<hr /> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_8" id="Page_8">[Pg 8]</a></span></p> - -<h2><i>LIST OF ILLUSTRATIONS</i></h2> - -<div class="center"><img src="images/iacorn.jpg" alt="decoration" /></div> - -<table summary="LIST OF ILLUSTRATIONS"> - <tr> - <td></td> - <td><span class="smaller">PAGE</span></td> - </tr> - <tr> - <td class="left"><span class="smcap">He was seized by two pair of brawny hands and dragged inboard</span></td> - <td><a href="#i004.jpg"><i>Frontispiece.</i></a></td> - </tr> - <tr> - <td class="left"><span class="smcap">As she caught a glimpse of the wounded youth the progress -of the canoe was instantly arrested</span></td> - <td><a href="#i059.jpg">56</a></td> - </tr> - <tr> - <td class="left"><span class="smcap">Nahma sprang upon the white man with uplifted knife</span></td> - <td><a href="#i133.jpg">129</a></td> - </tr> - <tr> - <td class="left">"<span class="smcap">Look, then, and tremble, thou dog of a murderer</span>"</td> - <td><a href="#i297.jpg">290</a></td> - </tr> -</table> - -<hr /> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_9" id="Page_9">[Pg 9]</a></span></p> - -<p class="bold2"><i>THE <br />BELT OF SEVEN TOTEMS</i></p> - -<div class="center"><img src="images/iacorn2.jpg" alt="decoration" /></div> - -<h2><span>CHAPTER I</span> <span class="smaller">THE VILLAGE OF PEACE</span></h2> - -<p>In the olden days when the whole land belonged to the red man the -village of Longfeather the Peacemaker was located on the river of Sweet -Waters, nearly one hundred miles, as the crow flies, from the place -where it flows into the sea. Its ruler was Longfeather, the only son -of Nassaup, sachem of the Wampanoags, and a man wise enough to realize -that peace was better for his people than war. So he had sent his only -son, when still a mere youth, to one after another of the surrounding -tribes that he might learn their language and establish friendships -among them. Thus Longfeather had lived for months at a time among -all the tribes dwelling east of<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_10" id="Page_10">[Pg 10]</a></span> the Shatemuc and the country of the -terrible Iroquois. He had travelled as far north as the land of the -Abenakis, from whom he learned to make snow-shoes and to construct -canoes of birchen bark. He had visited the Nipmucks and Nausets of the -eastern coast, who taught him many secrets of the salt waters from -which they gained their living. He had journeyed to the southward, -spending a year with the Narragansetts and another with the Pequots, -the wampum-making tribes. Then for a long time he had remained with the -warlike Mohicans, whose great chieftain Tamenand loved him as a son, -and taught him from his own wisdom until Longfeather became wisest of -all Indians dwelling in the region afterwards known as New England.</p> - -<p>So many seasons of corn-planting and harvest did the youth spend in -travel and study among the tribes, that when he finally turned his -face towards his own people he was become a man in years as well as in -stature and strength. So it happened that he tarried again among the -Pequots until he had won for a bride Miantomet, a daughter of their -sachem. The principal industry <span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_11" id="Page_11">[Pg 11]</a></span>of this tribe being the production of -wampum, which was made in the form of cylindrical beads, white, black, -purple, and sometimes red, cut from sea-shells, Longfeather's bride was -presented with a vast store of this precious material in the form of -strings and belts, so that in winning her the young man also acquired -much wealth.</p> - -<p>To fittingly celebrate the home-coming of his son, Nassaup commanded a -great feast that should last for seven days, and to it were invited the -headmen of all the tribes in which Longfeather had made friends. The -place chosen for this notable gathering was the mouth of a beautiful -valley, centrally located for the convenience of the several tribes, -and gently sloping to the river of Sweet Waters. Here, then, in early -autumn, at the full of the harvest moon, were gathered hundreds of -the leading sannups of the wide-spread territory bounded by the great -white river (St. Lawrence) on the north, the salt waters that bathe -the rising sun on the east and south, and the Shatemuc (Hudson) on the -west. These, together with their families,<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_12" id="Page_12">[Pg 12]</a></span> formed an assemblage larger -and more important than any that could be recalled even by tradition, -and while much of their time was devoted to feasting and dancing, they -also discussed questions of great significance.</p> - -<p>One of these was the meaning of a vast ball of fire, that, brighter -than the sun and glowing with many colors, had shot athwart an evening -sky on the night of Longfeather's marriage to Miantomet. To some this -phenomenon portended evil, while to others it was an omen of good -promise; but all were convinced that it was connected in some way with -the fortunes of Longfeather.</p> - -<p>Another matter discussed early and late with unflagging interest was -the rumored appearance in remote regions of a race of beings having -human form, but unlike any heretofore known. They were said to have -white skins and hairy faces, and were believed to control thunder and -lightning, which they used for the destruction of all who came in their -way. Some of them were also described as bestriding fire-breathing -monsters of such ferocity that they carried death and<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_13" id="Page_13">[Pg 13]</a></span> destruction -wherever they went. Most of these rumors came from the south and from -lands so remote that they had been many months travelling from tribe -to tribe and from mouth to mouth. Whether the beings thus imperfectly -described were gods or devils none could tell. At the same time those -who heard of them agreed that in spite of their form they could not be -human, for were not all men made in one likeness, with red skins, black -hair, and smooth faces?</p> - -<p>It was disquieting that, while most of these rumors came from the -far-distant south, some of them also came from the north, and located -the white-skinned strangers not more than a month's journey away. At -the same time it was comforting to have all stories agree that, while -they appeared from the ocean borne on the backs of vast winged monsters -of the deep, they always, after a while, disappeared again as they had -come.</p> - -<p>Longfeather further reassured those who discussed these matters by -relating a tradition that he had received from Tamenand. It concerned -other supernatural visitants who had once come even to the land of the -Wampanoags; but so long<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_14" id="Page_14">[Pg 14]</a></span> ago that not even the great-grandfather of the -oldest man living had seen them. They also were described as of white -skin and having hair on their faces. It was not told that they rode -fire-breathing dragons, or that they were armed with thunderbolts, but -they had come from the sea and returned into it again when they were -ready for departure. To be sure, they had slain many of the native -dwellers and caused great fear throughout the land, but after going -away they had never again been seen. To this day, however, traces of -their visitation remained in the form of certain pictured rocks that -they had inscribed, and which no man might remove or even touch, under -penalty of death.</p> - -<p>The simple-minded forest-dwellers listened to these tales with the same -dread that would inspire us of to-day upon hearing that inhabitants of -some distant planet, bringing death-dealing weapons that were unknown -to us, had invaded the world. They shuddered, gazing furtively about -them as they listened, and drew closer together as though for mutual -protection. Although the fears thus aroused sobered the red-skinned -assemblage<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_15" id="Page_15">[Pg 15]</a></span> and left it in small humor for further festivities, -this was not regretted by Nassaup, since it rendered them the more -willing to listen to a plan that he wished to propose. It was one so -long considered that it had become the chief desire of his life, and -was nothing more nor less than a federation of all the tribes there -represented, in the interests of peace, mutual aid, and protection. -For two days was this proposition discussed, and then it was accepted. -A belt of wampum, on which was worked his own totem, was given to -each of the seven head chiefs present, and a great belt of the same -material, in which the seven totems were combined, was presented to -Longfeather. On account of his wisdom he had been unanimously chosen -to rule the allied tribes, and this Belt of Seven Totems was the badge -of his authority. So Longfeather became Peacemaker and Lawgiver to all -that region, and on account of its central location he established his -official head-quarters upon the very spot where the great assemblage -had been held. Thus was founded the village of Peace, in which all -questions affecting relations between the tribes<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_16" id="Page_16">[Pg 16]</a></span> were discussed and -treaties were made. It was a place of refuge to which all persons -accused of wrong-doing and in danger of their lives might flee, with a -certainty of protection until their cases could be considered by the -Peacemaker. It also became a trading-point to which were attracted the -skilled makers of such articles as were most in demand among the tribes.</p> - -<p>Large areas of nearby lands were brought under cultivation, and these, -fertilized with fish taken in quantities from the teeming river, -produced wonderful crops of beans, maize, and pumpkins. No war-parties -ever visited the village of Peace, but there was a constant coming -and going of strangers. To it travelled the Abenakis, bringing furs, -maple-sugar, and highly prized ornaments of copper that had come to -them from the far west. Here they exchanged these things for bales of -dried fish from the eastern coast, seal-skins, or belts of wampum. -Here, also, they found expert makers of flint arrow-heads, knives, and -hatchets, weavers of mats, and workers in clay, from whom they might -procure rude vessels of earthen-ware. </p> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_17" id="Page_17">[Pg 17]</a></span></p> - -<p>Above all, here dwelt Longfeather, to whom could be submitted all -disputed questions, with a certainty that he would settle them wisely -and justly. Thus it happened that the village of Peace became the -political capital and chief trading-point of all New England long -before ever a white man had set foot in that region. Here, too, -some twenty years after its founding, was born Nahma, the son of -Longfeather, a lad whose strange adventures in after-life are now for -the first time about to be related.</p> - -<hr /> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_18" id="Page_18">[Pg 18]</a></span></p> - -<h2><span>CHAPTER II</span> <span class="smaller">CANONICUS MAKES TROUBLE</span></h2> - -<p>The boy thus introduced was carefully trained for the high position -that he must some time fill. Although from his father he never heard an -impatient or an unkind word, he was taught to respect his elders and to -yield the most implicit obedience to those in authority over him. As -soon as he was old enough to comprehend what he heard and saw he was -permitted to sit beside the Peacemaker and listen to the discussion -of matters affecting the well-being of the tribes. From Longfeather -himself, from the old men of the village, and from the visitors who -journeyed to it Nahma learned the traditions of his people. His father -also taught him to distinguish the totems of tribes or clans, together -with their significance, and illustrated his lessons by means of the -pictured belts that hung in the council-house. From these same teachers -Nahma also learned to believe in witchcraft and magic, by<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_19" id="Page_19">[Pg 19]</a></span> which alone -were they able to account for many natural phenomena. Thus even in the -years of his youth there came to Nahma a wisdom beyond that of all -other lads, and his name became known from one end of the land to the -other.</p> - -<p>Nor during this time of mental training was that of his body neglected. -Every day, even in the depth of winter, when ice must be broken before -water could be reached, he was made to plunge into the river or the -sea to toughen him and harden his flesh. He was taught to swim and to -paddle a canoe before he could walk; and often in later years when -trained runners were sent by Longfeather with messages to distant -tribes, the lad was allowed to accompany them, that he might learn the -trails, familiarize himself with remote localities and people, and -acquire the art of traversing great spaces in the shortest possible -time. So fleet of foot and so strong of wind did he thus become that he -at one time covered the distance between the village of Peace and the -sand-dunes of the Nausets on the edge of the great salt water between -two suns, a feat<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_20" id="Page_20">[Pg 20]</a></span> never before accomplished, and at which all men -marvelled.</p> - -<p>After this Nahma was frequently chosen to be his father's messenger -on occasions of importance, and very proud was the young warrior of -the trust thus reposed in him. Thus it happened that one day in the -lad's eighteenth year, when a matter of grave import demanded prompt -communication with a distant point in a region of danger, Longfeather -naturally turned to Nahma, his son.</p> - -<p>Troublous times had come, and the safety of the region so long ruled -by the Peacemaker was seriously threatened. To consider the situation -Longfeather had assembled a council of the tribes at Montaup, on the -edge of the salt water. This was the great gathering-place of the -Wampanoags, and to it their chieftain with his family was accustomed to -resort during the heated months of each summer. So here the council was -met, and after the calumet had passed entirely around its seated circle -Longfeather addressed the chiefs as follows:</p> - -<p>"It is well that we are come together, for the<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_21" id="Page_21">[Pg 21]</a></span> shadow of trouble is -upon us like that of a black cloud hiding the sun. While we be of many -tribes we have until now been of one heart, and even from the days -of Nassaup, my father, have we dwelt at peace one with another. Now, -however, is that peace threatened, and I have summoned you to see what -may be done."</p> - -<p>Here the speaker took one from a bundle of small sticks and handed it -to the oldest chief, saying, "Take this peace-stick, my brother, and -remember its meaning." Then to the others he continued,—</p> - -<p>"For a long time, from our fathers, and from their fathers before -them, have we heard tales of strange, white-skinned beings armed -with thunderbolts, who have come from the sea. We have listened with -trembling, but have comforted ourselves that these strangers, whom we -took to be gods, appeared not on our shores, but at places far removed. -Also we heard that they tarried not; but always, after a short stay, -departed as they had come. Take this stick, my brother, and regard it -with respect, for it indicates the belief of our fathers." </p> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_22" id="Page_22">[Pg 22]</a></span></p> - -<p>Thus saying, Longfeather handed a second stick from his bundle to the -aged chief. Then resuming his address, he said,—</p> - -<p>"But all our comfort has vanished with the gaining of wisdom. Nearer -and more frequent have come tales of the whiteskins, until now we -know them to be men like unto ourselves, only of a different color -and having hairy faces. They are armed with thunder-sticks that can -kill at three times the flight of our strongest arrows. Also have we -learned that these men are borne to our coast in mighty canoes built -by themselves and driven by the wind. We know that many of these -canoes come for fish to the salt waters of the Tarratines. Not only do -they thus come and go in ever-increasing numbers, but they even visit -the land to care for the fish they have taken. Accept this stick, my -brother, to remind thee of the white-skinned men who fish." With this -Longfeather handed a third stick to the old man.</p> - -<p>"Still," he continued, "the white fish-catchers do not attempt to -remain with us, nor have they thus far given us cause to fear them. -Some of their lesser canoes, small when compared with<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_23" id="Page_23">[Pg 23]</a></span> those in which -they come and go, but large by the side of ours, even as the eagle is -larger than the hawk, have drifted empty to our shores, and our young -men have made use of them. Also at times the great winged canoes of the -white men have been seen to pass our coast, but never until the season -of last corn-planting have they tarried. Then came one to the country -of the Narragansetts, where it remained for the space of three moons. -This stick, my brother, will refresh thy memory concerning the coming -and tarrying of the great white canoe." With this the speaker passed a -fourth stick to the old chief. Then deliberately and with emphasis he -resumed his speech, saying,—</p> - -<p>"On an island that they occupied the strangers who came in this canoe -erected a lodge. Many of you have seen it and them. They roamed through -the forest making thunder and killing beasts with their fire-sticks. -Above all, they traded with the Narragansetts, giving them knives and -hatchets made of an unknown metal, strong and sharp, kettles that fire -may not harm, and many other things in exchange for skins of<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_24" id="Page_24">[Pg 24]</a></span> the -beaver. Only with their thunder-sticks they would not part. By many -it was feared that they would remain and attempt to possess the land -that is our land. But after a time they departed, and the heart of -Longfeather was glad when he knew they were gone. At the same moment -his heart was again made heavy, for they gave out that they would come -again, bringing great wealth to exchange for beaver. Take this stick, -my brother, to remind thee that the white men will come again.</p> - -<p>"Now, my friends, what has happened? It is this. The Narragansetts are -puffed up with pride because they are possessed of knives and hatchets -better and more deadly than any ever before seen in all the world. -Also, they desire to obtain more of such things and to learn the secret -of the thunder-sticks that kill as far as one may see. Therefore did -Canonicus, head sachem of the Narragansetts, propose secretly to me -that when the great canoe came again I should order the white men to -be killed, that he and I might possess ourselves of their wealth, and -so become as gods, all-powerful in the land. This<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_25" id="Page_25">[Pg 25]</a></span> stick, my brother, -marks the proposition of Canonicus.</p> - -<p>"To the evil words of the Narragansett I refused to listen, saying to -him that to do what he had in his mind would surely bring upon our -heads the wrath of the Great Spirit. Furthermore, I bade Canonicus -put such evil thoughts far behind him and consider them no more. This -stick, my brother, is Longfeather's answer to Canonicus.</p> - -<p>"Again, my friends, what has happened? The Narragansett promised to -open wide his ears that the words of Longfeather might sink into his -heart. Did he do this? No. He closed tight his ears that they might not -hear, and began to look for others who would aid him in his wickedness. -So far did his eyes travel that they came even to the land of the -Maquas [Mohawks], who from the days of the first men have been our -enemies. To them is he preparing to send messengers with presents and -a promise of great wealth, together with power over all the tribes, -if they will join him in destroying the next white men who may come. -Canonicus was bidden to this council, but<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_26" id="Page_26">[Pg 26]</a></span> I cannot see him. This -stick, my brother, will tell thee of his black heart. I have finished."</p> - -<p>So long did the council discuss this situation and so many were the -speeches to be delivered on the subject, that a decision was not -reached until late on the second day of meeting. Then it was ordered -that Canonicus should be summoned to report in person to the assembled -chiefs, who for two days longer would await his coming. If at the end -of that time he had not appeared, a war-party of the allied tribes -should be sent to fetch him. In the mean time Longfeather would send -a delegation to the Maquas bearing presents, and offering, on behalf -of the combined New England tribes, a treaty that should secure to all -equal benefits from whatever trade might be had with the white-skinned -strangers. It was furthermore agreed that so long as the white men -proved themselves friendly they should be treated as friends. "For," -said the Peacemaker, "they are few and we are many, they are weak while -we are strong, therefore let us live at peace with them, if indeed they -come to us again, a thing that I trust may not happen. So<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_27" id="Page_27">[Pg 27]</a></span> shall we -please the Great Spirit who made them, doubtless for some good reason, -even as he made the red man and gave him control over the earth."</p> - -<p>So it was done even as the council had ordered, and a runner was -despatched to Canonicus with a summons for him to appear at Montaup, -and forbidding him to treat with the Maquas. Also active preparations -were made for sending an embassy to that powerful people on behalf -of the allied New England tribes, and to his joy Nahma was chosen to -accompany it as his father's representative.</p> - -<hr /> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_28" id="Page_28">[Pg 28]</a></span></p> - -<h2><span>CHAPTER III</span> <span class="smaller">AT THE CROSSING OF THE SHATEMUC</span></h2> - -<p>The whole land to the very edge of the great salt water, and including -the islands of the sea, was covered with a forest that sheltered it -alike from summer heats and the deadly cold of winter. Stately pines -growing on hill-sides lifted their evergreen heads far above all -other trees, and stood as ever-watchful sentinels. Mighty oaks shaded -wide-spread areas, while graceful elms were mirrored in lake and river. -Everywhere the painted maples flaunted their brilliant colors, while -chestnut, beech, hickory, and walnut showered down bountiful stores -of food to those trusting in them for a winter's supply. Man, beast, -and bird, all children of the forest, dwelt within its safe protection -and were fed from its exhaustless abundance. Its rivers and smaller -streams, filled from brimming reservoirs and unobstructed by dams, -afforded highways of travel ever ready for use and always in the best<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_29" id="Page_29">[Pg 29]</a></span> -of repair. Besides these, the forest was threaded with trails worn -by countless generations of Indian runners, traders, hunters, and -fighters, and these were as familiar to the dwellers in the shade as -are the streets of a city to one born within its walls.</p> - -<p>Along one of these devious trails, narrow and so dim that an -unpractised eye would quickly have lost it, sped a solitary runner. He -was young and goodly to look upon, while his movements were as graceful -as those of the deer, whose soft-tanned skins constituted his attire. -He was bareheaded, and in his hair was fastened a single feather from -the wing of an osprey or fishing eagle.</p> - -<p>A noticeable feature of his costume was a broad belt of wampum, -worn diagonally across his breast so that it might readily be seen -and recognized. On it at short intervals were worked seven figures -representing birds, beasts, and fishes, for it was the Belt of Seven -Totems, indicating the authority of Longfeather the Peacemaker, and the -young runner now wearing it so conspicuously was none other than Nahma, -his only son. </p> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_30" id="Page_30">[Pg 30]</a></span></p> - -<p>While Longfeather awaited the return of his messenger to Canonicus and -made ready the presents intended for Sacandaga, chief sachem of the -Maquas, news came that the Narragansett embassy to that same powerful -chieftain had already set forth on its mission. Thus there was no time -to be lost if his own message was to reach Sacandaga first, an event -that he deemed to be of the utmost importance. The chiefs whom he -desired to send as ambassadors could not travel at greater speed than -could the Narragansetts, who had a two days' start, but it was possible -that a fleet-footed runner might even yet overtake and pass them. As -this thought flashed through Longfeather's mind he knew that if the -thing might be done it could only be accomplished by the swiftest of -all his runners, and he promptly caused Nahma to be summoned.</p> - -<p>At that moment the young warrior was listening with eager interest -to the stories of white men and their great winged canoes, told by -Samoset, an Abenaki youth of his own age, who had accompanied his -chieftain to the council at Montaup. </p> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_31" id="Page_31">[Pg 31]</a></span></p> - -<p>"What do they call their tribe?" inquired Nahma, "and of what nature is -their speech? Doth it resemble ours so that one may comprehend their -words?"</p> - -<p>"They appear to be of many tribes," replied Samoset, "though we call -them all 'Yengeese.' Also they speak with many tongues, strange and -unpleasant to the ear."</p> - -<p>"What are they like, these tongues? Hast thou not caught some word that -we may hear?"</p> - -<p>"Often they say 'Hillo' and 'Sacré,'" replied Samoset, "but what these -mean I know not. Also, once, where from hiding I watched them cooking -fish on a beach, a pebble rolled from me to them. As they sprang up in -alarm I slipped away, fearing lest they might take offence. As I did so -one of them cried out very loud, 'Mass i-sawit!'" (By the mass I saw -it.)</p> - -<p>"Massasoit," repeated Nahma, thoughtfully. "It hath a familiar sound, -and might be a word of the Wampanoags, except that it is without -meaning. I long greatly to see these white-skinned fish-catchers and -their big canoes that resemble floating hill-tops with trees growing -in<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_32" id="Page_32">[Pg 32]</a></span> them. So if it may be arranged I will return with thee, Samoset, to -look upon these wonders. But you have said naught of the thunder-sticks -about which we hear so much. What of them? Are they indeed as terrible -as represented?"</p> - -<p>Ere Samoset could answer, Nahma received word that Longfeather desired -his presence, and, promising shortly to rejoin his companions, he left -them. Ten minutes later, without their knowledge or that of any person -in all Montaup, save only his parents, the young runner had left his -father's lodge bound on a solitary mission, longer, more important, and -more dangerous than any he had heretofore undertaken. He was to make -his way with all speed and in utmost secrecy to Sacandaga, head sachem -of the Maquas, and urge him, in the name of Longfeather, not to treat -with the Narragansetts or any other single tribe before the arrival of -the Peacemaker's own embassy.</p> - -<p>Longfeather had given his instructions hastily and in a few words. He -had invested the lad with his own superb belt as a badge of authority, -and had dismissed him with the peremptory orders<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_33" id="Page_33">[Pg 33]</a></span> of a sachem, -delivered in the loving tone of a father who sends his only son into -danger.</p> - -<p>Besides the Belt of Seven Totems, Nahma carried only a bow and arrows -slung to his back, a wallet of parched corn bruised in a mortar until -it formed a coarse meal, a small fire-bag of flints and tinder, and a -copper knife, the precious gift of his father. Having taken but five -minutes for preparation, he tenderly embraced his mother and bade her -farewell. Filled with a presentiment of coming evil, Miantomet clung -to him as though she could not let him go; but, comforting her with -loving words, the lad gently disengaged her arms from about his neck -and sprang away. In another minute he had plunged into the forest and -was lost to sight amid its blackness.</p> - -<p>For some hours the way was partially revealed by the light of a young -moon, and by the time of its setting Nahma had placed a score of miles -between him and Montaup. Then, as he could no longer make speed through -the darkness, he flung himself down at the foot of a great oak and was -almost instantly fast asleep.</p> - -<p>By earliest dawn he was again on the trail, and<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_34" id="Page_34">[Pg 34]</a></span> all that day he sped -forward with hardly a pause. Occasionally he passed a group of bark -huts nestled beside some smooth-flowing stream and surrounded by rudely -tilled fields; but at none of these did he halt, save only now and -then for a few mouthfuls of food. The belt that he wore insured him -everywhere a glad welcome and instant service. He forded or swam the -smaller streams; while at points where his trail crossed rivers he -always found canoes that he did not hesitate to appropriate to his own -use if their owners were not at hand. He was on the king's business and -nothing might delay it.</p> - -<p>Thus Nahma sped so swiftly on his errand that an hour before sunset -of the second day found him, very weary but exultant, on the eastern -bank of the Shatemuc and at the border of the country claimed by -the Iroquois, of whom the Maquas were the easternmost tribe. He was -farther from home than he had ever been before and in a region of -which he had no knowledge. At the same time he knew that the Maquas, -being now at peace with the New England tribes, were accustomed to -send hunting-parties east of their<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_35" id="Page_35">[Pg 35]</a></span> great river, and so he had hoped -to find one or more canoes at the crossing. In this, however, he was -disappointed, for, search as he might, he could discover none of the -desired craft, though he found a place where several had but recently -been concealed.</p> - -<p>As there were no other traces of human presence in that vicinity, -Nahma concluded that the canoes had been taken by persons coming from -across the river. He did not suspect that it might have been done by -the Narragansetts whom he was striving to outstrip; for thus far he had -discovered no sign of them, and had reached a conclusion that they must -have taken some other trail. At any rate, there was no canoe to be had, -and, as he was determined to cross the river before dark, he must swim -it. This he did, keeping dry his scanty clothing and few belongings -by floating them on a small raft of bark that he pushed before -him. Arrived on the farther side our young runner made a startling -discovery. Not only were a number of canoes drawn out on the bank and -concealed beneath overhanging bushes, but on the soft ground<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_36" id="Page_36">[Pg 36]</a></span> beside -them he found the unmistakable imprint of Narragansett moccasins. -Also, a short distance back from the river, he came upon the still -smouldering remains of a small fire. At length, then, he was close upon -the heels of his rivals, and he must at all hazards pass them that -night in order to gain a first hearing from Sacandaga. At the same time -he was in immediate need of food and rest, for he was faint with hunger -and exhausted by his recent exertions. There was no sign of danger, his -rivals had gone on, and the fire they had so kindly provided invited -him to cook food that was to be had for the taking.</p> - -<p>So abounding with fish were all the streams of that land that no one -possessed of even ordinary skill at catching them need go hungry. Nahma -was well aware of this, and, taking a pinch of his parched corn, he -stepped back to the river's bank and cast it upon the water. In another -moment he had transfixed with an unerring arrow one of the half-dozen -large fish that rushed greedily to the surface, and his supper was -provided. Having cooked it and satisfied his ravenous hunger, the lad -withdrew to a thicket<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_37" id="Page_37">[Pg 37]</a></span> well beyond the circle of firelight and flung -himself down for an hour of sleep before continuing his journey.</p> - -<p>The young runner was lost to consciousness within a minute after -closing his eyes; but not until his heavy breathing gave notice of -the fact did a painted savage, who for more than an hour had watched -his every movement, drop to the ground from among the branches of a -thick-leaved oak. There he had crouched as motionless as a panther -awaiting its prey; and now, after stretching his cramped limbs, he -stole with catlike tread towards the sleeping youth.</p> - -<hr /> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_38" id="Page_38">[Pg 38]</a></span></p> - -<h2><span>CHAPTER IV</span> <span class="smaller">THE BELT CHANGES HANDS</span></h2> - -<p>In all the history of the world it has happened that dwellers by the -sea have been more advanced and prosperous than their inland neighbors. -Thus, in the present instance, the Wampanoags and the Narragansetts -were the most numerous and powerful of the New England tribes. There -had always been jealousies and often open warfare between them, nor had -these wholly ceased to exist upon the election of Longfeather to the -high office of Peacemaker. Canonicus, head sachem of the Narragansetts, -felt that he was equally entitled to be thus honored, and consequently -was bitterly jealous of his successful rival. This feeling was shared -by his nephew and adopted son, Miantinomo, only that the envy and -hatred of the latter were directed against Nahma, whose place as future -ruler of the allied tribes he was determined to<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_39" id="Page_39">[Pg 39]</a></span> occupy, if by any -means such a thing might be accomplished.</p> - -<p>Thus, when Canonicus planned to secure a power greater than that of -Longfeather by forming an alliance with the eastern Iroquois, he found -in Miantinomo an eager assistant. So, even as the Peacemaker had chosen -his own son to represent him in the mission to Sacandaga, Canonicus -selected Miantinomo for a similar position in the Narragansett embassy. -In this way, without either being aware of the fact, the two young -rivals became actively pitted against each other in the most important -undertaking of their lives.</p> - -<p>While urged to make all possible haste, the Narragansett party was -obliged to adapt its pace to that of the oldest chief among them; and -while they expected that Longfeather would also send messengers to the -Maquas, they fancied these would be equally restricted as to speed. -They knew that they had a start of at least two days, and believed they -could reach Sacandaga's village, transact their business, and depart -for home before the coming of their rivals. At the same time they -neglected no precaution to insure<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_40" id="Page_40">[Pg 40]</a></span> the success of their undertaking. -They struck the Shatemuc at a point much lower than that reached by -Nahma, and from it ascended the river in canoes. As they advanced they -kept sharp watch of the eastern shore, and removed all craft found on -it to the opposite side of the river. Their last exploit of this kind -was at a place where they must again take to the land and follow a -trail to the Maqua villages.</p> - -<p>Having thus provided for a further delay of the other party, they felt -no apprehension of being overtaken, and proceeded leisurely on their -journey. They did, however, take the added precaution of leaving a -scout behind them to watch the crossing until sunset. For this purpose -they selected Miantinomo, as being the keenest-eyed and swiftest-footed -of their party. So Nahma's most active rival and secret enemy was left -to cover the rear, while his elders disappeared in single file up the -narrow trail.</p> - -<p>According to Indian custom Miantinomo had brought pigments with him, -and now he relieved the tedium of his watch, which he did not believe -would amount to anything, by painting his body<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_41" id="Page_41">[Pg 41]</a></span> in anticipation of a -speedy arrival at the Maqua villages. So interested was he in this -occupation that for a time he forgot everything else; then, startled -by a splash in the river, he glanced up. A swimmer, just emerged from -deep water, was wading ashore pushing before him a small raft, and -Miantinomo instantly recognized him. Being hidden behind a screen of -bushes, and satisfied that Nahma was still ignorant of his presence, -the young Narragansett, crouching low, made his way to a thick-leaved -oak that overhung the trail a short distance back from the river, and -was snugly hidden among its branches by the time Nahma gained the land.</p> - -<p>Miantinomo was not wholly surprised to discover the son of Longfeather -at this place; but he could not understand why he should be alone. -It must be that he had come to obtain canoes in which to bring over -the others of his party. Thus thinking, he expected to see Nahma at -once recross the river. In that case he would hasten after his own -companions and urge them to travel all night, that they might still -reach the Maqua villages in advance of their rivals. </p> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_42" id="Page_42">[Pg 42]</a></span></p> - -<p>But the new-comer failed to do as expected, and Miantinomo was more -puzzled than ever at witnessing his preparations to secure a meal and -spend some time where he was. He evidently was alone, and after the -spy became convinced of this, he wondered if by some means he might -not prevent Longfeather's messenger from continuing his journey. He -was also filled with a great longing to possess himself of the Belt of -Seven Totems, which he recognized as Nahma again assumed it. Well did -the young Narragansett realize the power conferred upon the wearer of -that belt. If it should be opposed to him in the presence of Sacandaga, -then would his mission prove a failure and his uncle's cherished plan -would come to naught. On the other hand, if the all-powerful belt could -be made to appear in his behalf, if he only might possess it even for a -short time, how easy would become his task!</p> - -<p>From the moment these thoughts entered his mind Miantinomo was -determined to acquire the coveted object by any means that should -offer. He knew that Nahma would never relinquish the<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_43" id="Page_43">[Pg 43]</a></span> belt of his own -free will, and that it must be taken from him by either stealth or -force. He knew also that should he succeed in his wicked design he -would incur the vengeance of Longfeather, and doubtless bring on a -war in which all the New England tribes would be involved. But what -of that? Would not the powerful Iroquois fight on the side of the -Narragansetts; and, armed with the white man's weapons, might they not -successfully defy the world?</p> - -<p>Filled with these ambitious thoughts, Miantinomo flattened himself -closer against the great oak limb and, regardless of the discomfort -of his position, watched with glittering eyes every movement of his -rival. More than anything else he resembled a venomous serpent awaiting -an opportunity to spring upon an unsuspecting victim. At his back was -a bow and a quiver of flint-headed arrows, with one of which he might -easily have stricken Nahma to the earth at any moment, but he was not -yet prepared to shed innocent blood for the accomplishment of his -purpose. Besides, he dared not make a movement that might attract the -other's attention.<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_44" id="Page_44">[Pg 44]</a></span> So he waited with all the patience of his race and -an ever-strengthening resolve to obtain possession of the Peacemaker's -belt.</p> - -<p>In the mean time Nahma, utterly unconscious of the dangerous presence -so close at hand, procured, cooked, and ate his supper, selected what -he believed to be a safe resting-place, and laid himself down for a -nap. The moment for which Miantinomo had waited was at hand, and with -noiseless movement he slipped to the ground. For a few seconds he stood -motionless behind the tree, to assure himself that his rival had not -been aroused; then with catlike tread he stole towards the unsuspecting -sleeper.</p> - -<p>At length he stood beside Nahma and bent over him with the coveted -belt easily within his reach. Bits of moonlight sifting through leafy -branches fell upon it and upon the upturned face of the sleeper. So -profound was his slumber that Miantinomo believed he might remove the -belt without disturbing him, and laying his stone-headed war-club -within easy reach, he began with the utmost caution to make the -attempt. It had very nearly succeeded, and the<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_45" id="Page_45">[Pg 45]</a></span> belt, partially -loosened, was within his grasp, when, without warning, Nahma opened his -eyes. Miantinomo leaped back at the first sign of waking, and as his -victim attempted to gain his feet a crushing blow stretched him again -on the ground motionless and to all appearance dead.</p> - -<p>For a moment the young Narragansett stood ready to repeat his cowardly -assault; but, seeing that a second blow was unnecessary, he again bent -over the body of his rival and snatched from it the belt for which he -had been willing to risk so much. With his prize thus secured, he was -about to hasten from the spot when another thought caused him to pause. -It would never do to leave the evidence of his crime where it was so -certain to be discovered. He had not meant to kill Nahma, and now that -the awful deed was committed, he trembled at thought of its possible -consequences. Even his own people would regard him with abhorrence if -they knew of it, while the vengeance of Longfeather would be swift -and terrible. Therefore what he had done must never be known even by -his nearest friends, and before leaving that spot he must remove all<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_46" id="Page_46">[Pg 46]</a></span> -traces of his murderous deed. Stripping off his scanty raiment that it -might not become bloodstained, he lifted the limp form of the stricken -youth, and carrying it some distance down the stream, flung it into -the river. He heard the heavy splash of the body as it struck the -water, but was too nervous to make further inquiry as to its condition. -Thus whether it sank or floated he did not know, nor did he seek to -discover, but fled from the spot as though pursued.</p> - -<p>Reaching the place where he had left his garments and the belt, he -hastily resumed the former, and concealed the latter beneath them. Then -he set forth at top speed to rejoin his companions and report that he -had seen nothing alarming during his watch by the river-side.</p> - -<p>On the following day the Narragansett embassy reached the Maqua -villages, where, in spite of their alluring proposition and valuable -presents, they were at first received with coldness and suspicion. -At the council assembled to hear their talk Sacandaga flatly refused -to make an alliance with any one of the New England tribes, and the -Narragansetts retired from it believing that the<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_47" id="Page_47">[Pg 47]</a></span> cherished plan of -Canonicus must come to naught.</p> - -<p>That night, however, Miantinomo sought a private interview with the -Maqua sachem, and displayed to him the Belt of Seven Totems, which -Sacandaga at once recognized, since its fame had spread far and wide. -"It is the belt of Longfeather," he said, after a close inspection.</p> - -<p>"Yes," replied Miantinomo, "it is the belt of the great Peacemaker, who -is also my father."</p> - -<p>"How can that be?" asked the other. "May a man have two fathers?"</p> - -<p>"By adoption, yes," answered the young Narragansett. "Having no son of -his own, Longfeather has adopted the nephew of his friend Canonicus, -that in time their tribes may be united under one chief. To the -Narragansetts I am known as Miantinomo, but by all others am I called -Nahma, son of Longfeather."</p> - -<p>"I have heard the name and it is described as being that of a most -promising warrior," said Sacandaga, regarding the young man with -renewed interest.</p> - -<p>"One blessed with two such fathers should<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_48" id="Page_48">[Pg 48]</a></span> indeed prove himself -worthy," was the modest reply. "In proof that I am regarded as a son by -Longfeather," he continued, "the Peacemaker has intrusted me with this -token of authority. Never before has he parted with it, and to none, -save only the mighty chief of the Maquas, whose friendship he greatly -desires, would he send it. Also he has done this thing in secret, so -that even those who come with me know not that I am intrusted with so -great authority."</p> - -<p>So impressed was Sacandaga by this flattering statement and by sight -of the belt offered in evidence of its sincerity, that he not only -listened attentively to the young man's proposals, but finally agreed -to accept them.</p> - -<p>"With Canonicus alone I could not have treated," he said, "for he is -but one of many; but with Longfeather, who represents the many, I may -enter into a compact."</p> - -<p>"The words of Sacandaga are good," replied Miantinomo, gravely, "and -will be as the singing of birds in the ears of Longfeather. At the -same time I trust it will not be forgotten that they may not be sent -directly to him. For the present<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_49" id="Page_49">[Pg 49]</a></span> he would not have it known that he -desires the wealth of the white-skinned strangers. If they think him a -friend they will the more readily fall into the snare he will set for -them. Therefore, my father, let the public treaty be made only between -Sacandaga and Canonicus, for Longfeather will be well pleased to have -it so proclaimed."</p> - -<p>"I understand and will not forget," replied the Maqua chief.</p> - -<p>Thus through treachery and deceit did the wily young Narragansett gain -his point and accomplish the mission with which he had been intrusted -by Canonicus.</p> - -<hr /> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_50" id="Page_50">[Pg 50]</a></span></p> - -<h2><span>CHAPTER V</span> <span class="smaller">WHAT THE DAUGHTERS OF KAWERAS FOUND</span></h2> - -<p>Sacandaga secretly gave to Miantinomo a belt of wampum bearing the -emblem of a tortoise, his own totem, to be transmitted to Longfeather, -while publicly he gave another to the Narragansett chiefs for -Canonicus. After the formalities of the treaty as well as the private -negotiations were concluded, Miantinomo urged the immediate departure -of his companions lest they might discover his evil doings. Then, -having got them well started on their homeward journey, he hastened -on in advance. For this he gave an excuse that the whites who were to -be plundered might appear at any time, and that every hour was now -of importance. His real reason was the belief that Longfeather must -also have sent a delegation of chiefs to confer with the Maquas, and a -determination to meet them and, if possible, turn them back. So, while -his companions took a trail different from the one by which they<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_51" id="Page_51">[Pg 51]</a></span> had -come, Miantinomo hastened back to the place where he had encountered -Nahma, and found those who had followed the son of Longfeather camped -on the opposite bank of the river awaiting the coming of canoes in -which to cross over.</p> - -<p>For some time after his appearance among them they asked no questions, -but waited in dignified silence to learn of his errand to them. -Finally, the young man said,—</p> - -<p>"My fathers, you are following Nahma, the son of Longfeather, on a -mission to Sacandaga, the Iroquois. Is it not so?"</p> - -<p>"It is as my young brother has said," replied one of the chiefs.</p> - -<p>"Then you may be spared a farther journey," continued Miantinomo, -"for Nahma, by virtue of the belt he wore, the great Belt of Seven -Totems, readily gained the ear of Sacandaga, even while I and those -with me were vainly striving to do so. Thus did he make a treaty with -the Iroquois on behalf of Longfeather, his father, and for fear that -you might claim a share in the honor he has returned to Montaup by -another trail. Even now he travels with those of my people who kept -me<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_52" id="Page_52">[Pg 52]</a></span> company. I have come by this trail that I may visit the village -of Peace before returning to my father. For this I was heavy-hearted; -but now am I glad, because I have met with you, and may so save you a -useless journey."</p> - -<p>For some time the chiefs discussed this report of Miantinomo; and then, -because they did not wholly trust him, they decided to retain him as -a hostage while one of their number visited the Maqua villages for -confirmation of his words.</p> - -<p>During the absence of this messenger Miantinomo was filled with -apprehension, though he carefully hid his feelings and affected the -utmost unconcern. He even went so far as to advise Longfeather's -commissioners to appropriate to their own use the presents they were -bearing to Sacandaga, and seek their respective homes without reporting -to the Peacemaker.</p> - -<p>"The treaty has been made," he said. "The sachem of the Maquas is -satisfied and expects nothing further. You have been put to much -trouble and will have no share in the honor. Longfeather has no thought -that the presents will<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_53" id="Page_53">[Pg 53]</a></span> be returned to him. Therefore is it best that -you who have earned them should keep them."</p> - -<p>To such arguments the chiefs listened not unwillingly; and when their -messenger returned with a report that Miantinomo had spoken truly -concerning what had taken place in the Maqua village, they decided to -accept his advice.</p> - -<p>"Why should Longfeather have intrusted the Belt of Seven Totems to one -so young and inexperienced as Nahma instead of to us?" they asked. -"Also why did he not tell us that he had done so? Truly he has shamed -us, and if we take his presents to wipe out our shame, then shall we do -that which is right and good."</p> - -<p>Having reached this conclusion, each took a share and went his way; -while Miantinomo, rejoicing at the complete success of his evil designs -and still wearing next his skin the Belt of Seven Totems that was -the badge of highest authority in all that land, returned to his own -people. There he busied himself with the secret spreading of various -reports concerning the young rival with whom he had dealt so foully. -One was that Nahma had taken a Maqua girl to wife and<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_54" id="Page_54">[Pg 54]</a></span> would thereafter -dwell among the Iroquois. Another was to the effect that he had been -murdered by his companions of Longfeather's embassy for the sake of the -belt that he wore, as well as for the presents intrusted to them, which -they had taken for their own benefit.</p> - -<p>From Sacandaga himself Longfeather learned that a young man named -Nahma and wearing the Belt of Seven Totems had indeed visited the -Maqua villages, from which he had departed again in company with the -Narragansett chiefs. Although the latter denied this and declared that -they had not seen Nahma, Miantinomo maintained that he had met him in -Sacandaga's village and spoken with him.</p> - -<p>By these and other conflicting stories was the fate of Nahma so -shrouded in mystery that it became impossible to discover what had -really befallen him, and finally his friends mourned for him as for one -who is dead. Even while they thus mourned it became rumored that either -Canonicus or Miantinomo, his adopted son, would succeed Longfeather -in the high office of Peacemaker and ruler of the allied New England -tribes. </p> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_55" id="Page_55">[Pg 55]</a></span></p> - -<p>In the mean time, while all these events were happening, Nahma knew -nothing of them nor indeed of anything else, for he lay tossing with -fever in the lodge of Kaweras, principal arrow-maker of the Maquas. -When, apparently dead, he had been flung into the river to disappear -forever from human eyes, he had fallen among a bed of reeds in a -place where the water was too shallow to drown him. There he lay -motionless through the long night hours, half in the water and half -out of it, while the tall reeds whispered and rustled above his head. -Soft-flitting night-birds gazed at him with wondering eyes, while timid -animals coming to the river to drink sniffed the air tainted by his -presence and fled in terror.</p> - -<p>Towards morning a glimmer of returning life entered the numbed brain, -and in striving to obey its commands the poor bruised body began to -make feeble movements. By sunrise Nahma was sitting up and gazing -stupidly at the green wall by which he was surrounded. Also he muttered -over and over, with tedious repetition, three meaningless words: -"Hillo, Sacré," and<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_56" id="Page_56">[Pg 56]</a></span> "Massasoit." Other than this he gave no sign of -restored consciousness. He did not take heed even when a sound of merry -voices came to the place where he sat, nor was his attention attracted -by a loud swish and rustle of the reeds that came ever nearer until it -was close at hand. Then there was a momentary silence, broken only by -the monotonous repetition of "Hillo, Sacré, Massasoit."</p> - -<p>A stifled exclamation and excited whispers announced that these words -had at length reached human ears, but there was an evident hesitation -while fear struggled with curiosity. After a minute the reeds in front -of Nahma were noiselessly parted, and the bow of a canoe stole into -sight inch by inch with almost imperceptible motion. From it peered -the face of a young girl, bright and fascinating, but big-eyed with -apprehension as that of a startled fawn. As she caught a glimpse of the -wounded youth the progress of the canoe was instantly arrested, while -the girl became rigidly motionless. Her eyes, however, took in every -detail of his appearance and of his melancholy situation. He<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_57" id="Page_57">[Pg 57]</a></span> still -appeared to see nothing and still repeated the words that had attracted -attention, "Hillo, Sacré, Massasoit."</p> - -<div class="center"><a name="i059.jpg" id="i059.jpg"></a><img src="images/i059.jpg" alt="AS SHE CAUGHT A GLIMPSE OF THE WOUNDED YOUTH" /></div> - -<p class="bold">AS SHE CAUGHT A GLIMPSE OF THE WOUNDED YOUTH THE -PROGRESS <br />OF THE CANOE WAS INSTANTLY ARRESTED</p> - -<p>"What is it, sister? What do you see?" came in a frightened whisper -from an unseen speaker who occupied the farther end of the canoe; but -the other, still gazing motionless, made no reply. "Aeana," insisted -the invisible one in a louder tone, "tell me quickly what you see. I am -frightened."</p> - -<p>"I see nothing to be afraid of, Otshata," replied the girl in the bow -of the canoe. "It is a young man, but he is evidently sorely wounded -and regards not our presence. There, you may see for yourself." With -this the girl called Aeana pulled the canoe into such a position that -the other could catch a glimpse of Nahma.</p> - -<p>"It is certain that he is handsome," whispered Otshata; "but is not his -condition dreadful? Let us hasten and report it to our father."</p> - -<p>"No," answered Aeana, decisively. "That is," she added, "we will return -to our father, and that quickly, but we must either take this young man -with us or leave him to perish. See you<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_58" id="Page_58">[Pg 58]</a></span> not that the river is flowing -backward and that its waters are rising? If we leave him he must die, -since he is in no condition to care for himself. How we may get him -into the canoe I know not, but if that can be done we will carry him to -Kaweras, our father."</p> - -<p>The elder though more timid sister attempted a further expostulation, -but without heeding her Aeana brought the canoe close to where -the wounded youth still sat, indifferent alike to his fate and -his surroundings, idly repeating the strange words that had fixed -themselves in his bewildered brain. Aeana spoke to him, but he failed -to comprehend what she said. She laid a gentle hand on his arm and -endeavored to persuade him into the canoe, but he sat passively -motionless.</p> - -<p>Finally in despair the girl uttered one of the strange words that he -so constantly repeated. "Massasoit," she said, and the youth looked -at her, seeming for the first time to recognize her presence. A faint -smile flickered across his blood-smeared features, and he made a -movement towards her. In another moment, aided<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_59" id="Page_59">[Pg 59]</a></span> by her supple strength, -he had gained the interior of the canoe, and lay weakly with closed -eyes while the two girls pulled it out from among the reeds. Then -seizing their paddles, they urged the light craft swiftly down the -river towards their father's lodge.</p> - -<p>Thus did the daughters of Kaweras, who had been sent to fetch a bundle -of stout reeds that might serve as shafts for bird arrows, return -without them, but bringing a wounded and unconscious youth in their -place.</p> - -<p>Although the old arrow-maker saw at a glance that the young warrior -was not of the Maqua, nor even of the Iroquois people, his ideas of -hospitality did not permit him to ask questions nor hesitate a moment -before attending to the stranger's needs. It required the united -strength of father and daughters to transfer Nahma from canoe to lodge, -and when he was finally laid in the latter on a hastily improvised -couch of boughs and skins, he was once more to all appearance dead.</p> - -<hr /> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_60" id="Page_60">[Pg 60]</a></span></p> - -<h2><span>CHAPTER VI</span> <span class="smaller">IN THE LODGE OF THE ARROW-MAKER</span></h2> - -<p>The lodge of Kaweras, occupied only by him and his two daughters, stood -by itself in a grassy glade shaded by elms on the western bank of the -lordly Shatemuc. Close at hand flowed a spring of crystal water, while -at no great distances were abundant materials for the prosecution -of the old arrow-maker's trade. Nearby hills furnished him with -flints and slate, agate and milk-white quartz; stout reeds and tough, -straight-grained woods were to be had for the taking. Deer of the -forest yielded him their strong back-sinews for binding arrow-head to -shaft, and myriads of sea-fowl flying up or down the broad river gave -him of their feathers. In his younger days Kaweras had been a noted -warrior. Now he was the most expert arrow-maker of the region in which -he dwelt. He was also a mystic, a prophet, and one well versed in<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_61" id="Page_61">[Pg 61]</a></span> the -science of healing by means of herbs, roots, bark, and leaves.</p> - -<p>In his double capacity of arrow-maker and medicine-man Kaweras was much -sought after, and though his lodge stood remote from any village of his -people, it was rarely without visitors. Young warriors came for arrows -and to catch glimpses of his pretty daughters; their elders came to -consult with him concerning grave affairs; while many of all ages and -both sexes came for healing or to profit by his advice. As all brought -gifts, Kaweras was well-to-do, and his larder was always stocked with -choicest products of forest and field without effort on his own part or -that of his daughters.</p> - -<p>These last kept tidy the spacious lodge with its three divisions, of -which only the outer one was for the general public, prepared the -family meals, and did much sewing with needles of fishbone threaded -with fibre or sinew. At the same time they found abundant leisure for -paddling on the river in their canoe of white birch brought from the -far north and for attending to the needs of their pets, two tame fawns -and a large<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_62" id="Page_62">[Pg 62]</a></span> flock of wild ducks bred in captivity. Also they helped -their father in the making of arrows, and especially in the gathering -of material.</p> - -<p>With this busy but uneventful life the elder sister was quite content, -but Aeana always longed for excitement and adventure. Now she had -found both in the coming to their quiet lodge of a stranger, young, -mysterious, wounded to the point of death, and speaking a language to -which even the wisdom of her father could find no clue. Furthermore, -she regarded him with a proprietary interest, for had she not -discovered him and rescued him from almost certain destruction?</p> - -<p>During the long illness that followed his coming, and while he lay -oblivious to his surroundings, she often gazed curiously upon his face, -listened to the three strange words that he repeated to the exclusion -of all others, and speculated concerning him. She became impatient for -him to get well that he might tell her who he was, where he came from, -and how he happened to be in the sad plight that had so nearly proved -fatal. She would have talked of him to their many<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_63" id="Page_63">[Pg 63]</a></span> visitors but for her -father's expressed wish that Nahma's presence in their lodge should -be kept a secret from all men. Kaweras hoped thus to learn something -concerning him from unguarded conversations, but in this he was -disappointed. It is true that he heard of the mysterious disappearance -of Nahma, the son of Longfeather, but whenever that youth was mentioned -Miantinomo was described, and as this description did not coincide in -any particular with the appearance of his patient, he had no reason to -connect the two.</p> - -<p>Otshata was quite as much interested in the young stranger as was -her sister, but in another way. She thought him very handsome, which -Aeana would not admit, and secretly rejoiced in the helplessness that -depended so largely upon her gentle ministrations. She had the motherly -instinct that found pleasure in self-sacrifice, and from the first -constituted herself chief nurse of the stricken youth.</p> - -<p>For a long time it was doubtful if Nahma would ever recover from the -illness by which he was prostrated; but after it finally took a turn<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_64" id="Page_64">[Pg 64]</a></span> -for the better he began rapidly to mend. On the day that he first -ventured outside the lodge into the freedom of open air there was -much rejoicing in the little family, but it was tinged with sadness. -Although weak and emaciated from his long sickness, he was still a -goodly youth to look upon, and gave promise of speedily regaining his -physical powers; but his mind was that of a child. He could neither -tell nor remember anything of his former life, even its language was -lost to him, and he could converse only in such words of the Iroquois -tongue as he had acquired from his present associates. As he could not -tell them his name, they called him "Massasoit," from the word he had -most frequently uttered during his delirium, and this he accepted as -readily as he did all else that they offered him.</p> - -<p>While thus compelled to relearn everything that required mental effort, -it was soon discovered that he had lost none of his cunning in matters -calling for physical strength or skill. He could still shoot an arrow -or hurl a spear with unerring aim, was rarely at fault on the<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_65" id="Page_65">[Pg 65]</a></span> dimmest -trail, and proved himself an adept in such branches of Indian handiwork -as usually fell to the share of warriors, such as the fashioning of -weapons or the building of canoes. He soon regained a muscular strength -even greater than that with which he had been endowed before his -illness, while his fleetness of foot excited the wonder of his friends.</p> - -<p>With all this Nahma was gentle and submissive to authority, a trait -that aroused the utmost scorn in the mind of Aeana. From the time his -mental weakness was discovered this high-spirited girl treated him as -she would a child, bidding him come or go, fetch or carry, according -as she felt inclined, and apparently she despised him for his ready -obedience to her orders. He, on the other hand, regarded her with an -intense admiration and sought in every way to win her favor. All his -trophies of the chase were laid at her feet only to be contemptuously -rejected or flung to Otshata. In the latter, however, the young man -found a friend to whom his misfortune appealed so keenly that she -treated him with unwearied kindness and tenderest consideration. He -called<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_66" id="Page_66">[Pg 66]</a></span> her "sister," a term that he dared not apply to Aeana, and -poured all his troubles into her sympathetic ear.</p> - -<p>One day Nahma returned hot and weary from a chase that had lasted many -hours and presented a noble stag to Aeana. Without taking notice of the -gift, and careless of his evident weariness, she bade him fetch her -water from the spring. As he willingly departed on this mission she -regarded him with curling lip, and when he returned bearing a large -earthen jar of water that he set before her, she promptly overturned -it so that its contents were spilled. At the same time she uttered the -single word "squaw" with an accent of utter contempt and entered the -lodge, leaving him bewildered and mortified.</p> - -<p>Walking slowly towards the river, he discovered Otshata seated in a -shaded nook on its bank embroidering a moccasin with painted quills.</p> - -<p>"My sister, why does Aeana hate me?" he asked, as he flung himself -despondently on the turf beside her.</p> - -<p>"She hates thee not, my brother," replied the other, interrupting her -work to look at him. </p> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_67" id="Page_67">[Pg 67]</a></span></p> - -<p>"Truly she does. In every word and by every act she shows her dislike," -declared Nahma, bitterly. "She would be glad never to see me more, -and I will go away rather than remain longer to displease her by my -presence."</p> - -<p>"Speak not of such a thing!" exclaimed Otshata. "Whither would you go, -and what should we do without our hunter? If Aeana seems to treat thee -unkindly, it is only to inspire thee with a braver spirit. She likes -it not that one come to the estate of a warrior should tamely serve -her. She would have thee do brave deeds, and also she would have thee -remember thy past. Canst thou not do this, and by hard thinking recall -some one thing? Who was thy father? Who struck the cruel blow that so -nearly ended thy life? Who are thy people? Are they the Saganaga of the -south, the Oneidas of the west, or wast thou born among the fish-eaters -who dwell in the country of sunrising? I will not ask if thou hast -Huron blood in thy veins; for in spite of thy moccasins I feel assured -that thou art not of that wicked people."</p> - -<p>By this reference Otshata recalled the fact that,<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_68" id="Page_68">[Pg 68]</a></span> when found wounded -in the river sedge, Nahma had on his feet a pair of Huron-made -moccasins procured in the village of Peace to replace others worn out -by his journey; but of these he could give no account.</p> - -<p>"I strive to remember," declared the youth, vehemently. "Night and day, -sleeping and waking, I think till my head seems like to burst, but -'tis of no use. The only life that I know is here, and if I have had -another, it is gone from me like a dream of the black hours. So it is -well that I should go away, and if these Hurons be thy enemies and the -enemies of Aeana, then will I go and fight against them that she may no -longer despise and hate me."</p> - -<p>"No, no!" cried Otshata. "Think not of the war-path, my brother. The -Hurons are very fierce and terrible and cruel. Also they are so filled -with evil designs that only the wisest and most experienced warriors -may hope for success against them. Thee they would easily kill; or, -what is worse, they would take advantage of thy simplicity to adopt -thee and make thee sharer of their wickedness." </p> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_69" id="Page_69">[Pg 69]</a></span></p> - -<p>At this point the conversation was interrupted by a summons from -Kaweras bidding Massasoit come to him quickly.</p> - -<p>While it had been comparatively easy to keep secret the presence of -a stranger in the lodge of Kaweras during his illness, it became -impossible to do so after he was out and about. So a knowledge of -the mysterious youth who could remember nothing of his past speedily -became noised abroad, and many persons, attracted by curiosity, came -to see him. The victim of these interviews dreaded them so intensely -that he spent much time in remote forest depths to avoid them. Now, -however, he was fairly caught, and going reluctantly to the lodge, -followed at a distance by Otshata, he found himself in the presence -of a distinguished-looking chieftain who was seated on a robe beside -Kaweras. Behind them stood a group of warriors. As Nahma drew near the -eyes of all these were fixed intently upon him, though no word was -spoken until he paused within a few paces of his host.</p> - -<hr /> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_70" id="Page_70">[Pg 70]</a></span></p> - -<h2><span>CHAPTER VII</span> <span class="smaller">NAHMA JOINS A WAR-PARTY</span></h2> - -<p>"Massasoit," said Kaweras, as the young man regarded him inquiringly, -"I would have plumes from Ke-neu, the great eagle, to make a -war-bonnet. He waits yonder for an invitation to come to us. Can you -persuade him?"</p> - -<p>With this the speaker pointed upward to where a golden eagle, attracted -by a bait of raw flesh placed temptingly at some distance from the -lodge, circled on motionless pinions.</p> - -<p>Glancing in the direction indicated, Nahma stepped within the lodge, -from which he quickly reappeared bearing a bow and three arrows. -Again taking his station in front of Kaweras, he stood for a moment -motionless, watching intently the movements of the eagle, that still -circled slowly downward. One arrow was fitted to the bowstring, while -the other two were stuck in the ground before him. Suddenly the youth -lifted his weapon and let fly its feathered dart. Then<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_71" id="Page_71">[Pg 71]</a></span> he shot twice -more with such marvellous rapidity of motion that the third arrow was -leaving the bow ere the first had reached its mark. As the spectators -uttered an involuntary exclamation of amazement, the great bird, -evidently stricken to its death, plunged dizzily downward with feebly -beating wings.</p> - -<p>"Bring it," said the sachem, addressing those who stood behind him, and -each taking the command to himself, all sprang away in a breathless -race for the trophy.</p> - -<p>"Do thou bring it," said Kaweras to Nahma.</p> - -<p>Instantly the young bowman darted forward with such amazing swiftness -that, despite the distance already gained by the others, he overtook -and passed them ere they could reach the coveted goal. As he picked up -the dead bird and bore it back the others made way for him, nor did one -offer to take from him the prize that he had thus twice won. As he laid -it at the feet of Kaweras the bird was seen to be transfixed by three -arrows.</p> - -<p>"The young man should be named Sharp-eye, Quick-hand, and Swift-foot," -exclaimed the <span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_72" id="Page_72">[Pg 72]</a></span>visiting sachem, who was none other than Sacandaga, "for -he has proved himself to excel the best of my warriors in all these -things. Not until this day have I believed the tales told me touching -his skill; but now I know them to have been less than the truth. If he -be as fearless as he is quick he should take high rank as a warrior. -How say you, Massasoit? Will you go with me and my young men to do -battle with the Hurons, who are reported to have taken the war-path -against us?"</p> - -<p>For a moment the youth hesitated. He glanced at the old arrow-maker, -whose features were unmoved and who made no sign. Then he looked -towards Otshata, whose face showed her distress and who made an -imploring gesture for him to decline the offer. Finally he turned to -Aeana, who stood motionless and with averted gaze, but her attitude and -expression were unmistakable. They said as plainly as words, "He is a -squaw and dares not face the war-path."</p> - -<p>In an instant Nahma's resolution was taken, and he answered Sacandaga, -saying,—</p> - -<p>"I am without experience of the war-path, nor have I knowledge of any -people save only of<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_73" id="Page_73">[Pg 73]</a></span> these, my father and my sisters. If, however, -these Hurons be the enemies of Kaweras and of his daughters, then will -I gladly go with thee to fight against them."</p> - -<p>"It is well," replied Sacandaga, greatly pleased to have gained so -promising a recruit. "Spend thou the night with my young men, who will -instruct thee concerning many things, and in the morning will we set -forth."</p> - -<p>Some hours later, when the camp-fires had burned low and the recumbent -forms gathered about them were buried in slumber, two men issued -silently from the lodge of Kaweras and made their way to a secluded -spot on the river-bank, where they believed they might discuss weighty -matters without danger of being overheard. They were Sacandaga and the -old arrow-maker, and when they had gained the place they sought the -latter broke the silence by saying,—</p> - -<p>"It is now many days since I became aware that Sacandaga proposed to -honor my poor lodge by a visit. Also am I informed of his object in -coming, though he has told it to no man."</p> - -<p>"How may such a thing be?" asked the other. </p> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_74" id="Page_74">[Pg 74]</a></span></p> - -<p>"To all men come dreams, but to a few only is given the power of -understanding them," replied Kaweras. "The many dream dreams and forget -them on waking. Some indeed recall them and make vain efforts to -comprehend their meaning; but to Kaweras a dream speaks a language as -easy of understanding as the signs of the forest or the voices of birds -that dwell among its branches."</p> - -<p>"So I have heard, and for that reason have I come to thee," said -Sacandaga. "Tell me, then, what is my desire and if it may be -accomplished."</p> - -<p>"The Hurons are reported to be gathering on the war-path leading to -the country of the Iroquois, and thy desire is to proceed with such -promptness against them that they may be surprised and destroyed while -still in their own territory. Then would you descend on their villages -and wipe them out, that the power of our enemies may be broken forever."</p> - -<p>"That is indeed a hope that I have cherished, but always in secret, -and for my brother to know of it is proof that I have not done wrong -in <span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_75" id="Page_75">[Pg 75]</a></span>coming to him for advice," said Sacandaga. "How, then, Kaweras, -will this plan of mine succeed, and shall we thus rid ourselves of the -wolves whose howling has so long troubled our ears?"</p> - -<p>The prophet hesitated before making reply. Then he said slowly, -"Sometimes the dream-pictures are so plenty and come so quickly that it -is hard to make out one from another, as it is hard to understand the -words of one man when many are talking. I see a fight. In it are Maquas -and Hurons. The Maquas chase their enemies and kill them. It is morning -and the sun is shining. Also with this picture I see another battle in -which the Hurons are overcoming the Maquas and taking many prisoners. -In this one is thunder and lightning, by which many are killed. Which -is the true picture I know not, nor how to advise my brother concerning -them."</p> - -<p>"Then will I interpret and tell thee their meaning," exclaimed -Sacandaga. "Both are true, and their meaning is this. I and my young -men are to go on the war-path against the Huron dogs and will surely -encounter them. If we do so on a fair morning when there is no sign of -storm in<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_76" id="Page_76">[Pg 76]</a></span> the air, then shall we overcome them and wipe them from the -face of the earth. If we should meet them in the morning and delay an -attack until later in the day, then would the Great Spirit grow angry -and send his lightnings to destroy us. It is well, my brother. I will -remember to seek the enemy on a fair morning and avoid him on a day of -storm. Now I would ask thee one more question. What do thy dreams tell -of the young man who is called Massasoit?"</p> - -<p>"This only," answered Kaweras, "that he is the son of a chieftain, and -will himself become a leader of men, wiser even and more powerful than -his father."</p> - -<p>"But who is his father?"</p> - -<p>"I know not, though of late I have come to a suspicion that this young -man may be Nahma, the missing son of Longfeather."</p> - -<p>"That cannot be, for I have had dealings with the son of Longfeather -and know that he and this youth are not one person."</p> - -<p>"Did not that one also claim to be a son of Canonicus?"</p> - -<p>"He did so claim." </p> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_77" id="Page_77">[Pg 77]</a></span></p> - -<p>"Then he may have spoken falsely; for Uncas, the Mohican, hath lately -sent me word that Nahma and Miantinomo are two separate persons, -holding no love for each other and having nothing in common."</p> - -<p>"If the words of Uncas should prove true and it shall appear that I -have been led falsely into a treaty with Canonicus, then shall the -wrath of Sacandaga fall upon the Narragansetts even as one destroys a -serpent that has stung him. I will look closely into the matter when I -have returned from dealing with the Hurons. Until then it is well that -I keep this young man where I may watch over him."</p> - -<p>In the mean time the youth under discussion had just passed the -pleasantest evening his short memory could recall. He was like a boy -brought up in a nursery with only girls for companions, at length set -free and for the first time admitted to the company of men. He had no -recollection of companions of his own age and sex, so that the young -warriors who now welcomed him to their ranks were revelations as -surprising as they were interesting. </p> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_78" id="Page_78">[Pg 78]</a></span></p> - -<p>How much they knew, and what wonderful things they told him! At the -same time how delightful was it to listen to their praise of his -own accomplishments! Until now he had not known that he possessed -accomplishments, but supposed that every one could shoot and run -equally well with himself. He could not remember having learned to -do these things, nor had he found occasion since entering the lodge -of Kaweras to test his skill in them against that of others. Now, -therefore, he was surprised as well as pleased to find himself in the -position of a hero on account of abilities that he had heretofore -regarded as commonplace.</p> - -<p>So pleasant was the evening thus spent with his new companions that -when Sacandaga gave the signal for conversation to cease that his young -men might sleep and so prepare for an early start on the morrow, Nahma -was filled with eager anticipations of the new life opening before him, -and already wondered how he could have been content with that passed in -the lodge of Kaweras.</p> - -<p>With the earliest promise of dawn he was<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_79" id="Page_79">[Pg 79]</a></span> first of all the sleeping -warriors to spring to his feet and begin preparations for departure. -Such as he had to make were few and simple, but to him they were of -vast importance. New moccasins and leggings of buckskin, a light robe -of soft furs in which to wrap himself at night, and a wing feather from -the great eagle for his head completed his list of personal belongings. -Besides these he would take a bow and the quiver of fine flint-headed -arrows that Kaweras presented to him that morning, his stone hatchet or -tomahawk, and the copper scalping-knife that was his sole relic of a -former but unremembered life. Also he must furnish to the general stock -of provisions a large, close-woven basket of parched corn.</p> - -<p>By sunrise a meal had been hastily eaten and everything was in -readiness for the setting forth of the war-party. Kaweras embraced -Nahma and bade him make for himself a name. Tears streamed down the -cheeks of Otshata as she bade him farewell and pressed into his hands a -pair of daintily embroidered moccasins as a token of remembrance. The -youth looked on all sides<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_80" id="Page_80">[Pg 80]</a></span> for Aeana, but she was nowhere to be seen. -Only after his canoe was well out on the river and he glanced back for -a farewell view of the place that had been to him a home did he see, -standing on a slight elevation and gazing in his direction, a solitary -figure that he knew to be that of the girl who scorned him.</p> - -<p>Some days later he found tucked down in the toe of one of Otshata's -moccasins an exquisite little tinder-bag of softest fawn-skin that he -had last seen hanging from the shapely neck of Aeana.</p> - -<hr /> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_81" id="Page_81">[Pg 81]</a></span></p> - -<h2><span>CHAPTER VIII</span> <span class="smaller">TWO YOUNG SCOUTS</span></h2> - -<p>For two days did Sacandaga's little expedition proceed up the Shatemuc, -now making tedious carries around roaring waterfalls, and again -laboriously hauling their laden canoes up some stretch of tumultuous -rapids. At one of these places Sacandaga, bidding Nahma accompany -him, left the river and made his way swiftly along a broad trail that -led to the westward. After following it for a while they came to a -place of many springs delightfully shaded by giant trees. Although no -human being was to be seen, there were on all sides remnants of former -encampments. Also the ground about certain of the springs was worn -bare by innumerable hoof-prints, showing that deer and other animals -were accustomed to gather here in great numbers. Deeply marked trails -leading from every direction centred here, as though the springs formed -a meeting-place for all people. </p> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_82" id="Page_82">[Pg 82]</a></span></p> - -<p>As Nahma noted these things Sacandaga smiled at his expression of -astonishment. "It is Sara Tioga, the place of healing," he said. "To -it come all who are sick or suffer pain that they may drink of the -medicine waters and be cured. Many would be here now but for the report -that an enemy is coming this way. When we have wiped him out then will -we return hither, that we may rejoice with feasting and dancing. At -that time will be seen a great gathering of the Iroquois, for this is -the place of all their places that they most love. Now, however, we may -tarry only long enough to drink of the life-giving waters and then must -we hasten forward. In drinking take careful note of the spring most -offensive to thy taste, for thus may be discovered which one is most -needful to thy well-being."</p> - -<p>So Nahma drank of all the springs, finding some of them salt, some -sparkling with effervescence, and others so nauseous that he turned -from them in disgust.</p> - -<p>"I like none of them and will drink no more," he finally declared.</p> - -<p>"Then must all of them be for thy good and<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_83" id="Page_83">[Pg 83]</a></span> thou must stand in need of -all the elements they contain," answered his companion, who cared to -hear naught but praise of his beloved springs. "But let us go, for we -have no time to lose."</p> - -<p>As they turned to depart from the beautiful place, Nahma suddenly -sprang upon his companion with such violence that Sacandaga was hurled -to the ground and the young man fell with him. At the same moment an -arrow was buried to its shaft in the trunk of a beech a few paces in -front of them, where it stood quivering with the force that had sped -it. Even as he fell Nahma bounded up, and an instant later, when the -startled sachem also gained his feet, he saw the young warrior darting -back in the direction from which they had just come.</p> - -<p>At the same time a third figure hideously daubed with war-paint -appeared in plain view. He stood directly in front of the rash youth -with bended bow and a second arrow drawn to its head. Quick as thought -Nahma dropped, and the feathered missile flew harmlessly above him. As -he again leaped to his feet his assailant turned to fly, but ere he -had taken half a dozen steps he<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_84" id="Page_84">[Pg 84]</a></span> sprang convulsively into the air and -plunged headlong with outstretched arms. An arrow sped from Sacandaga's -bow had passed through his body.</p> - -<p>"Why did you kill him?" asked Nahma, regretfully, as the two stood -together looking down on the still twitching body of their late foe.</p> - -<p>"Is it not what my young brother would have done?" inquired Sacandaga, -in surprise.</p> - -<p>"No; I would have caught him and made him tell me things."</p> - -<p>"What things?"</p> - -<p>"Why he hid from us and tried to kill us, who he was, and what he was -doing here. I do not remember seeing him among thy young men."</p> - -<p>Sacandaga smiled grimly. "He seems to have escaped being seen until he -came within range of Quick-eye's vision; but all thy questions may be -answered in a word. He is a Huron."</p> - -<p>"A Huron!" cried Nahma. "How may that be, when he looks like other men? -I thought a Huron was a wolf. Surely my father has said so."</p> - -<p>"A Huron is a wolf in spirit," replied Sacandaga, as he stooped and -deftly removed the dead<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_85" id="Page_85">[Pg 85]</a></span> man's scalp, "but the wolfish spirit is -concealed beneath the semblance of a man."</p> - -<p>"Then how may one know a Huron?" asked the puzzled youth.</p> - -<p>"By his paint, his moccasins, the cut of his scalp-lock, the fashion -of his weapons, his cast of feature, and by a thousand other signs as -plain as the difference between light and darkness."</p> - -<p>All these things had once been well known to Nahma; but now they were -as though he had never before heard of them, and he listened eagerly to -the words of Sacandaga's lesson.</p> - -<p>"This time," concluded the sachem, "my young brother has done well, -and to his quickness of sight combined with promptness of action do I -owe my life. But never again, my son, run openly upon an enemy without -first knowing his strength. It is seldom that a Huron spy comes alone -into the Iroquois country, and had there been others, or even one -other, with this one, thy death had been certain. Always when surprised -seek first a place of hiding from which to discover the strength of thy -enemy and plan for meeting him." </p> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_86" id="Page_86">[Pg 86]</a></span></p> - -<p>The Huron scout who had just paid the penalty of his daring was one -of two sent to discover if the Iroquois had knowledge concerning the -projected invasion of their country. His companion had remained with -their canoe at the upper end of Andia-ta-roc-te (Lake George) while he -had penetrated the country as far as the springs of healing, where, -if the Iroquois felt themselves secure from invasion, he was certain -to discover a number of their lodges. He was greatly disappointed at -finding the place unoccupied, and was about to retrace his steps with -the information that an alarm had been given, when Sacandaga and his -young companion appeared on the scene. Hiding like a snake in the -grass, the Huron watched these two with longing eyes while waiting to -see if they would be followed by others. He recognized Sacandaga, and -was determined if possible to carry back with him the scalp of that -redoubtable chieftain.</p> - -<p>An opportunity came as his enemies turned to depart, and he cautiously -brought his bow into position. At that instant Nahma, glancing back, -caught sight of a tip of the weapon projecting<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_87" id="Page_87">[Pg 87]</a></span> above the tall grasses -and did the only thing possible to save his companion's life.</p> - -<p>As the fortunate survivors of this episode left the scene of its -occurrence they took a path leading northward, and after a time came -again to the Shatemuc, having cut off a great bend of the river that -the canoes must necessarily follow. As they went they discovered the -slight trail left by the Huron scout, but at the river it was lost. -Wading to the opposite bank, Nahma soon recovered it, and asked -permission to follow it farther; but Sacandaga would not grant this -until the arrival of the canoes. Then, after briefly relating what had -happened, he selected a young warrior already famous as a trailer and -ordered him to accompany Nahma over the path the Huron had come. This -warrior was named Ah-mik-pan-pin, or the Grinning Beaver, on account of -two prominent front teeth over which his lips were never wholly closed.</p> - -<p>"Have a care," said Sacandaga on parting with the young men, "and run -no risks for the sake of scalps. What I desire is a knowledge of the -party to which that Huron belonged. I<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_88" id="Page_88">[Pg 88]</a></span> would know how large it is, -where it is camped, and whether it is coming or going. Find out these -things as quickly as may be and come again with thy news. The Maquas -will sleep to-night at the foot of the great rock by the shore of the -wide waters. They will have no fire and will make no sound, but he who -utters the cry of wah-o-nai-sa (the whippoorwill) twice and then once -will be answered by the same cry once and then twice. Go thou and come -again quickly."</p> - -<p>With this Nahma and Grinning Beaver set forth, and were instantly -lost to view in the thickness of the forest. For two hours they sped -forward without a pause, then they began to see spaces of light through -the trees, and the Beaver intimated that they must now exercise the -greatest caution.</p> - -<p>"This trail will not lead us to them," he whispered, "for they will -have moved to one side or the other after their runner left. Let us, -then, go separately to the water's edge, thou on the one side and I -on the other. Whoever reaches the beach first shall utter the cry of -wah-o-nai-sa,<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_89" id="Page_89">[Pg 89]</a></span> and if it be not quickly answered he shall return to see -what is wrong. Is it well?"</p> - -<p>"It is well," replied Nahma, and the two went their respective ways as -agreed.</p> - -<p>With the utmost caution and without a sound louder than his own -breathing did Nahma circle towards the lighted space marking the limit -of the forest. All at once he stopped and listened. From behind him, -faint and distant, he had heard an unmistakable exclamation of surprise.</p> - -<p>It was not repeated nor did he hear further sounds, but it was enough, -and after a moment of listening he started back over the way he had -come. He found the place where he had parted from his companion, and -then followed the slight trail made by the latter. Suddenly and without -warning he came upon a sight so startling that he stood in his tracks -like one petrified, gazing at it with dilated eyes.</p> - -<p>Two warriors locked in a deadly embrace lay motionless on the ground. -Their surroundings were drenched with blood, and to all appearance both -were dead. Nahma stooped over them, and saw to his horror that one of -the faces, so swollen<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_90" id="Page_90">[Pg 90]</a></span> and distorted that he had not sooner recognized -it, was that of his recent comrade. The other was a Huron, and a knife -still clutched by the Beaver's hand was buried to the hilt in his -heart. At the same time his own fingers held the throat of the young -Iroquois with a grip like that of a vise.</p> - -<p>It required all of Nahma's strength to unlock that death-clutch, but at -length he succeeded, and the two mortal foes so recently thrilled with -vigorous life lay side by side stark and rigid.</p> - -<hr /> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_91" id="Page_91">[Pg 91]</a></span></p> - -<h2><span>CHAPTER IX</span> <span class="smaller">ON THE LAKE</span></h2> - -<p>Nahma gazed about him in dismay. Night was coming on, he was alone in a -place of which he had no knowledge, and he believed himself surrounded -by enemies. He even fancied he could see dark faces peering at him from -behind the shadowy tree-trunks. Above all, the companion upon whom he -had relied for guidance and counsel lay dead at his feet. Although a -savage himself, accustomed only to savage sights and ways, our lad -had seen so little of death that this last fact seemed incredible. He -kneeled beside the Beaver and gazed into his face, calling him by name -in a low voice and bidding him open his eyes.</p> - -<p>As he did this the dreadful aspect of the face on which he was looking -suggested another that he had seen but a week earlier. It had been that -of a man drowned in the Shatemuc and brought<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_92" id="Page_92">[Pg 92]</a></span> to the lodge of Kaweras. -To all appearance he was dead, and yet the old arrow-maker had restored -him to life. Nahma remembered perfectly what was done at that time, for -he had closely watched every operation, and had even assisted Kaweras -in his efforts. Now, in his despair over the present situation, but -feeling that he could not yield to it without making some attempt at -its betterment, he set to work upon the Beaver exactly as Kaweras had -done with the drowned man. He turned the body on its face, drew forward -the tongue, and cleared the mouth of froth. Then by rolling the body on -its side and back again, at the same time applying a gentle pressure -to back and breast, he forced air into and expelled it again from the -lungs, thus producing an artificial breathing. After that he sought -to restore circulation by rubbing upward along the legs. In all his -efforts he was without hope of success and only worked for the sake of -doing something. He was therefore utterly amazed as well as overjoyed -to detect in his patient a slight gasping for breath. He could scarcely -believe he had heard aright until it was repeated, and<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_93" id="Page_93">[Pg 93]</a></span> then he knew -that the Beaver was still to be counted among those who lived.</p> - -<p>Without thought of the danger from probable enemies, Nahma sprang to -his feet, started towards the lake for water, and had gone half-way -before he recalled that he had nothing in which to fetch it. Upon -this he ran back, and picking up the still unconscious form of his -companion, staggered to the beach with it in his arms. On his way -he ran across a canoe concealed in a clump of bushes, but paid no -attention to it for the moment.</p> - -<p>As he laid his burden on the sand and glanced up to see if they were -still safe from the presence of enemies, he detected a vague form some -distance up the beach that disappeared within the forest even as he -looked. It must of course be a Huron warrior, and doubtless others -were with him. In that case to remain where they were meant certain -destruction, and there was but one way to save his helpless companion -as well as himself. The canoe that he had just discovered would at -least bear them away from the treacherous forest and give them a -fighting chance for their lives in the open. </p> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_94" id="Page_94">[Pg 94]</a></span></p> - -<p>In another minute Nahma had launched the light craft, placed his -comrade inside, and was paddling furiously out over the lake. He had -not gone more than one hundred yards when a series of yells from -behind, and a flight of arrows sent with deadly intent, showed that his -escape was discovered. Most of the arrows fell short, and none of them -inflicted any damage. At the same time Nahma, glancing back, thought he -saw other canoes coming down the coast.</p> - -<p>It was now so nearly dark that all objects were indistinct, and if he -could only maintain his lead for a short time longer he might still -evade his pursuers. So the tired youth infused new energy into his -paddling and urged his craft forward with redoubled speed. As he knew -nothing of the lake, he had no idea where to look for the great rock -beside which Sacandaga was to spend the night, nor was the Beaver in -any condition to afford him information. So he held a course as far -as possible from both shores and continued his paddling until nearly -midnight, when he was forced by sheer exhaustion to give it over.</p> - -<p>Dark as was the night, our lad could still <span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_95" id="Page_95">[Pg 95]</a></span>distinguish the darker -forms of occasional islands as he passed them, and at length drawing -cautiously in towards one of these, he made a landing. In all this -time the Beaver had been slowly struggling back to life, but he was -still devoid of strength or a knowledge of his surroundings. So Nahma -prepared as well as he could a bed of branches and grass, to which he -bore his comrade. He also dragged up the canoe and turned it on its -side to provide shelter from a drizzle of chill rain that was beginning -to fall. Having completed these simple preparations, the youth ate a -handful of parched corn drawn from his wallet, and lying down beside -the Beaver was almost instantly fast asleep.</p> - -<p>In regard to the necessaries of life the American of that day was in no -degree removed from the beasts of the field. Like them he could thrive -upon the natural products of the forest, and he also found its shelters -sufficient for his needs even in the most inclement weather. With -materials for a feast at hand he feasted; but when they were lacking he -went without food uncomplainingly and for incredible lengths of time. -If<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_96" id="Page_96">[Pg 96]</a></span> in the present instance our lad had dared allow himself the luxury -of a fire he would quickly have acquired all the comforts of a home, -including an abundance of cooked food, a good bed, warmth, and light. -As it was he accepted cold, wet, hunger, and a most uncomfortable -resting-place as things liable to be encountered at any time in the -ordinary course of events.</p> - -<p>The remainder of the night passed without incident, and by dawn Nahma -was once more alert. His first move was to climb a tall tree that stood -close at hand and take a comprehensive survey of the lake. Seeing it -thus for the first time by daylight, he was impressed by its marvellous -beauty. Its blue waters were dotted with islands all wooded and -blending every shade of green. On both sides forest-covered hills rose -abruptly from the shore, and back of them towered mountains higher than -any he had ever seen. The lake was nowhere more than a mile or two in -width, and to the northward it narrowed rapidly.</p> - -<p>Having gazed as long as he dared on the outspread beauties of the -scene, and satisfied <span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_97" id="Page_97">[Pg 97]</a></span>himself that nothing was in motion on the face -of the waters, the youth descended from his observatory and proceeded -to make ready a breakfast. He was tired of parched corn, and his -ravenous appetite demanded something more substantial. He even decided -to run the risk of a fire. So he gathered a small quantity of dry, -hard wood that would burn with the least amount of smoke, and, after -an exasperating struggle with flints and tinder, caught a spark that -was finally fanned into a brisk blaze. With the making of a fire the -hardest part of his breakfast-getting was ended, although he had as yet -nothing to cook. Five minutes later, however, he was in possession of a -large pickerel and two good-sized bass, all of which had been enticed -within striking distance of his arrows by a bait of worms. These fish -wrapped in green leaves were buried under a bed of coals, and while -they were cooking Nahma gathered berries.</p> - -<p>When all was in readiness, he was vastly disappointed to find that -his companion was unable to share in the meal. The Beaver had so far -recovered that he was able to sit up and take an<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_98" id="Page_98">[Pg 98]</a></span> intelligent interest -in what was going on. The expression of longing with which he regarded -those baked fish left no doubt that he, too, was hungry; but, alas! he -could not swallow food. His throat was so swollen that he could not -even speak, and he still breathed with difficulty. He was so parched -with thirst that he managed after a painful struggle to swallow a few -drops of water, but that was all.</p> - -<p>So Nahma was reluctantly obliged to eat alone while his companion -watched him enviously. As he ate, the former told what he knew -concerning the events of the preceding evening, and the Beaver learned -for the first time that they were on an island far down the lake in -hiding from a war-party of Hurons. He had wondered at finding himself -alone with Nahma instead of in Sacandaga's company, but had supposed -that they were within a short distance of the great rock, as he knew -had been the case when they first gained the lake-shore. His distress -at being unable to ask questions and express his views on the situation -was so evident as to suggest a possible remedy, upon which Nahma -immediately set to<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_99" id="Page_99">[Pg 99]</a></span> work. First he stripped some sheets of bark from a -white birch, and with them fashioned a rude but water-tight bowl that -would hold about a gallon. This he partially filled with water. In the -mean time he had thrown into the fire some large beach pebbles, and -these were now thoroughly heated. Lifting them with forked sticks and -dropping them into the bowl, he almost instantly had hot water, with -which he bade the Beaver bathe his throat.</p> - -<p>While the latter was doing this Nahma bethought himself to climb once -more into his observatory for another look at the lake. As he gained -the highest available branch and glanced back over the way they had -come he uttered an exclamation of dismay. Not more than two miles -distant was a fleet of canoes advancing directly towards him. He could -plainly see the flash of their paddles and note their movements as -they separated or closed together. There was no doubt but that the -enemy from whom he had fled was again close upon him, and to remain on -that island meant certain discovery, since no Indian would pass a fire -without finding out by whom<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_100" id="Page_100">[Pg 100]</a></span> it had been kindled. To leave the island -and make for the mainland on either side was out of the question, for -their moving canoe would surely be discovered. Thus the only thing -remaining to be done was to proceed straight down the lake, with the -hope of gaining another place of concealment while still hidden by the -island from those who came behind.</p> - -<p>With this plan formed our young warrior hastily descended the tree, -told his companion that the Hurons were again in hot pursuit, and -bundled him into the canoe ere he had time to gain further information. -Then Nahma gave him a paddle and told him that if he valued his life he -must put forth whatever of strength he had remaining.</p> - -<hr /> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_101" id="Page_101">[Pg 101]</a></span></p> - -<h2><span>CHAPTER X</span> <span class="smaller">AN OKI OF THE WATERS</span></h2> - -<p>As Nahma had intended remaining on the island until his companion -fully recovered from his injuries, he had not hurried with anything -that he had done that morning. Consequently it was mid-day when the -flight was resumed and the fugitives again headed their canoe down the -lake, keeping the island directly behind them as a screen from their -pursuers. Although working furiously at his paddle, Nahma glanced -behind him every few moments, and as time passed was amazed that the -enemy did not come into sight.</p> - -<p>At length, after a couple of hours of incessant labor, the canoe -rounded a bold headland that nearly cut the lake in twain, and was -hidden behind it from any who might be following. Here the lake was -very narrow, and Nahma proposed that they should run the canoe ashore, -hide it, and seek to rejoin their friends by land. </p> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_102" id="Page_102">[Pg 102]</a></span></p> - -<p>"No," said the Beaver, who had recovered his power of speech. "If the -Hurons are following us, they will surely have scouts in the forest on -both sides. We should be certain to fall in with these, and I am not -yet ready for fighting. Now that we have come thus far by water, let -us keep on. At a short distance from here this lake ends, but it is -joined to another much larger. On that other a canoe may go north even -to the country of the Hurons. It may also go south to the land of the -Iroquois. Let us, then, find the big water and turn to the south, for -if those following us be Hurons they will certainly hold a course to -the northward."</p> - -<p>"We will do as my brother says," replied Nahma, delighted to have -again the counsel of his more experienced companion. So the course -of the canoe was continued, but only Nahma now wielded a paddle. The -Beaver had been so much benefited by hot-water applications and by the -subsequent exercise of paddling that his throat was again serviceable. -Not only could he talk but he believed he could eat, and as Nahma had -brought along one of the three fish caught<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_103" id="Page_103">[Pg 103]</a></span> for breakfast, he made the -attempt with such gratifying success that it quickly disappeared. Being -thus refreshed and strengthened, he began to question his companion -concerning the events of the preceding night.</p> - -<p>When Nahma related the finding of the two mortal enemies clutched in a -death-grapple the Beaver said,—</p> - -<p>"It is so. As I saw the Huron he saw me, and we sprang at each other -with our knives, for we were too close to use bows or even the -tomahawk. His knife broke, and as I drove mine into his body his -fingers closed about my throat. Ugh! It was the grip of a bear, and I -could not loose it. Again and again did I bury my knife in his heart, -but he would not let go. Then all became black and I died. How my -brother brought me back from the place of Okis [departed spirits] I -know not, but when next I awoke he lay beside me under a canoe and a -band as of fire was about my head. Now, therefore, the life of Grinning -Beaver belongs to his brother. But tell me quickly how knew you we were -pursued by Hurons? There were traces of<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_104" id="Page_104">[Pg 104]</a></span> but two of them, while many of -our own people were to meet Sacandaga at the great rock."</p> - -<p>"I know that our pursuers are Hurons, or at least enemies, because they -crept on us by stealth. Also when they saw we had escaped they yelled -with rage and shot arrows to kill us. Besides that, they followed after -us in canoes, and but for the coming of darkness would surely have -overtaken us."</p> - -<p>"Is it certain that they shot after us with arrows?"</p> - -<p>"It is certain, for one of them struck the canoe and lies even yet -where it fell. So my brother may see for himself and know that I have -spoken truly."</p> - -<p>The Beaver plucked the arrow thus indicated from the sheathing of the -canoe in which its point was embedded and examined it closely. As he -did so a puzzled expression came over his face, and he exclaimed,—</p> - -<p>"But this is not a Huron arrow! It is of the Iroquois, and might have -been made by Kaweras himself. Look. As a bowman thou shouldst know this -fashion of feathering." </p> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_105" id="Page_105">[Pg 105]</a></span></p> - -<p>"I do know it," replied Nahma, taking the proffered arrow as he spoke -and studying its make. "Also I should have recognized it sooner had I -looked, but it fell in darkness, and since then I have been too busy to -recall it until now."</p> - -<p>"If this was the only style of arrow aimed at us," continued the -Beaver, "those who pursue us must be friends, who have in turn mistaken -us for enemies."</p> - -<p>"It would seem so," agreed Nahma, in a mortified tone, "and it is to my -shame that I should have shown so great stupidity."</p> - -<p>"Take it not to heart, my brother. No warrior may learn his trade save -by experience. What you have done has been well done, and no harm has -come of it. Only now that we know those behind us to be friends, we -must look sharply for enemies in front and see that our friends come -not upon them unaware."</p> - -<p>"Shall we not turn back at once," asked Nahma, "and give to Sacandaga a -warning of the true state of affairs?"</p> - -<p>"Not at once, but presently," replied the Beaver, "for we are even -now close to the<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_106" id="Page_106">[Pg 106]</a></span> great waters of which I spoke. It will be well, -therefore, if we take a look at them before turning back. We may thus -have news to report that will cause him to rejoice at sight of us."</p> - -<p>During this conversation Nahma had continued to paddle easily, and the -canoe had glided gently forward with the current of a forest-shaded -stream forming an outlet to the lake they had just traversed. As the -Beaver concluded his remarks the roar of falling waters ahead of them -gave warning that their farther progress in this direction was barred. -So the canoe was left cunningly as though it had drifted to that place, -and the two young scouts made their way through a mile-wide strip of -forest to the shore of a second lake that lay behind. Here they gazed -eagerly out over the wide water-way, but for a moment saw nothing -unusual. As they were about to venture into the open, Nahma checked the -movement with a guarded exclamation of amazement. A human figure had -suddenly appeared on the crest of a headland that jutted into the lake -a short distance from them, and for several seconds it stood motionless -in the full light of the westering sun, as<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_107" id="Page_107">[Pg 107]</a></span> though spell-bound by the -beauty of the outspread landscape.</p> - -<p>Although it presented the form of man, it was unlike anything either of -the astonished observers had ever seen. It appeared twice the size of -an ordinary man, and at certain points it glinted in the sunlight with -a sheen like that of rippling waters. Its head, upon which the sunlight -also flashed, was of huge proportions and apparently devoid of hair.</p> - -<p>"It is an Oki," whispered the Beaver, apprehensively. "A god of the -waters. See you not how he shines with wetness?"</p> - -<p>Even as the Beaver spoke, a second figure appeared for an instant -beside the one at which the awe-stricken youths were gazing. It was -that of a man like themselves, half-naked, painted, and bedecked with -feathers. This last apparition plucked the other by the arm and they -disappeared together.</p> - -<p>Our young scouts looked at each other in wonderment. "We must know more -of this affair," said the Beaver. "Let us move in that direction and -see what may be found." </p> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_108" id="Page_108">[Pg 108]</a></span></p> - -<p>A few minutes later, moving with the utmost caution, they had reached a -point from which they could look beyond the headland. There they beheld -a scene that held their gaze with breathless interest, and, crouching -beneath the overhanging branches of a thick-growing spruce, they -watched it in silence.</p> - -<p>The sun was setting and its light was growing dim, but they could -see a fleet of canoes drawn up on the lake-shore, and beyond them -many men moving busily about a large cleared space. They could not -discover among these the strange figure that had first attracted their -attention, nor was there any glow of fire-light.</p> - -<p>The Beaver drew in his breath as though about to speak, but Nahma -checked him with warning hand, and at the same instant a twig snapped -directly behind them. The young scouts dared not so much as move their -heads, but from the corners of their eyes they caught glimpses of four -shadowy forms that flitted noiselessly by and vanished in the direction -from which they themselves had come. They were Hurons seeking to make -certain before the complete<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_109" id="Page_109">[Pg 109]</a></span> shutting in of night that no enemy lurked -in the vicinity of their camp.</p> - -<p>For several minutes after these had passed our lads remained motionless -and silent. Then the Beaver rose and moved without a sound in the -direction taken by the Huron scouts, while Nahma, his nerves tense with -excitement, followed the lead thus given. Neither spoke until finally -they came again to the place where they had left their canoe. To their -dismay, it was gone, but the Beaver said in a whisper,—</p> - -<p>"It is well for us that it is of Huron make, so that they may think it -was left by those of their own people who were sent ahead. Now let us -find Sacandaga, for we have much to tell him."</p> - -<p>The task of making their unlit way back along the shore of the stream -they had so recently descended without effort was beset with many -difficulties. They must keep close to the river, for not only was -it their guide but by it sooner or later their friends were almost -certain to pass. They must thread the forest mazes in silence, and they -must pause with every minute to listen for<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_110" id="Page_110">[Pg 110]</a></span> the dip of paddles. Even -then Sacandaga's canoes might drift by them unseen and unheard. But a -warning must be given, if such a thing were possible, and in spite of -all obstacles they pushed steadily forward.</p> - -<p>At length they came to a place where the stream began to broaden. They -had gained the lower end of Andia-ta-roc-te and dared go no farther. So -they waited while Nahma uttered full and clear the plaintive call of -the whippoorwill. Twice did he repeat it, and then once more after a -brief interval.</p> - -<hr /> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_111" id="Page_111">[Pg 111]</a></span></p> - -<h2><span>CHAPTER XI</span> <span class="smaller">THE COMING OF SACANDAGA</span></h2> - -<p>As the concluding notes of Nahma's cry echoed over the still waters and -were lost among the distant hills, the two youths listened anxiously -for an answer. Nor had they long to wait, for within a minute the call -of a whippoorwill came back to them almost exactly as the young warrior -had uttered it; but it came from the wrong direction.</p> - -<p>"Sacandaga has passed us after all," muttered Nahma in a tone of -vexation.</p> - -<p>"Not so," replied the Beaver, "for that was not the answer agreed upon. -Do you not remember? The call was to be two and then one, while the -answer was to be one and then two. This answer came back even as the -call was given, and so could not have been made by Sacandaga or any of -his warriors."</p> - -<p>"Who, then——?" began Nahma, but he was interrupted by a quavering -note of ko-ko-anse<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_112" id="Page_112">[Pg 112]</a></span> (the little screech-owl) that came from no great -distance.</p> - -<p>"It is a Huron call," whispered the Beaver; "answer it quickly." This -Nahma did, and the Beaver continued, "They are on the water and will -come to this point for further information. Do you remain here and take -care that they discover not thy presence. I will retire a little and -entice them or some of them to me, for I can speak the Huron tongue. -After that we must be guided by what will follow. Is it well?"</p> - -<p>"It is well," whispered Nahma, as he crouched low beside a log, one -end of which extended into the water. He did not hear the Beaver take -his departure, but knew that he was gone. Then from off the river, -but close at hand, came again the tremulous cry of ko-ko-anse. It was -answered by the Beaver from a short distance inland, who in a voice -disguised as though by weakness cried,—</p> - -<p>"Help me, brothers. Help me before I die."</p> - -<p>"Who calls?" inquired a voice from the water.</p> - -<p>"A Huron scout sorely wounded and helpless," answered the Beaver. </p> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_113" id="Page_113">[Pg 113]</a></span></p> - -<p>"Is he alone?"</p> - -<p>"He is alone. There was another with him, but he was killed two days -since. Help or I perish."</p> - -<p>"Art thou Chebacno or Wabensickewa?"</p> - -<p>"I am Wabensickewa. Chebacno was slain by the Iroquois, who are even -now making ready a war-party. I hastened back to bring news of it, and -landed here to rest until darkness. While I slept a panther leaped on -my back. Before I could kill him he had so injured me that I cannot -walk. Also are my eyes blinded so that I cannot see. I have a canoe -that you will find at the water's edge, if indeed the wind has not -drifted it away. I have called many times, and was about to give over -calling when your answer came to lend me new strength. Now, then, my -brothers, come quickly, for I have much to tell before I die."</p> - -<p>A moment later Nahma felt a slight jar pass through the log against -which he lay and heard a few whispered words of consultation. Then two -figures stepped ashore and, passing so close to him that he could have -touched them, <span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_114" id="Page_114">[Pg 114]</a></span>noiselessly entered the forest. He waited for a moment -and then cautiously lifted his head. Against the faint gleam of water -he could distinguish the black bulk of a canoe and see that it still -held two other figures who sat motionless. Slowly he raised his bow -with a stone-headed arrow fitted to its string until one of the sitting -figures was fairly covered. Then he waited with tense muscles and a -heart that seemed like to burst with its furious beating. From behind -him came a low moaning that he knew was made by the Beaver to deceive -his enemies.</p> - -<p>Suddenly the oppressive silence was broken by the twang of a bowstring -that was instantly followed by fierce yells. High above these rose the -defiant war-cry of the Iroquois, but its last note was cut short and -ended in a choking gurgle.</p> - -<p>Somehow Nahma managed to hear these things, though he was at the same -time intensely busy with affairs of his own. At the first intimation of -a struggle behind him he had let fly his ready arrow, and one of the -two figures in the canoe dropped heavily forward. The other, seeing -what<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_115" id="Page_115">[Pg 115]</a></span> he had supposed was a log suddenly endowed with life and leaping -towards him, uttered a cry of terror, sprang overboard, and disappeared -beneath the black waters. While Nahma tossed the limp form of the other -Huron from the canoe preparatory to going in pursuit of this swimmer, a -rustling among the bushes warned him to make good his own escape while -yet he might, and giving the canoe a great shove, he leaped aboard.</p> - -<p>As the craft shot out into the open a voice hailed it from the shore; -but as the words were spoken in the Huron tongue, Nahma made no answer. -He hesitated for a moment, wondering whether it might not be the Beaver -who called; but with a repetition of the demand he knew that that was -not the case. He was confirmed in this belief by hearing a slight -splash from close at hand, a stifled exclamation, and a few whispered -words. Evidently the swimmer who had made so hasty an exit from the -canoe had been encouraged by the voice of a friend to gain the land, -and now the two were once more in communication. </p> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_116" id="Page_116">[Pg 116]</a></span></p> - -<p>What had become of the Beaver? Recalling the Iroquois war-cry and -its sadly suggestive ending, Nahma had little doubt that he had been -overcome and killed. He hated to think of deserting his comrade without -knowing for a certainty whether he were alive or dead, and yet to -attempt a landing in face of two enemies, and perhaps three, would be -an act of folly. His canoe had drifted out so far that they could not -see him in his present position, but it would be almost impossible to -gain the shore anywhere in that vicinity without detection.</p> - -<p>While in this state of indecision, which in reality lasted but a few -seconds, he heard faint and far away the cry of a whippoorwill. Twice -was it uttered, and then again after a short interval. It must be the -signal of Sacandaga, since it came from up the lake. Doubtless it had -been made in answer to the Beaver's far-reaching war-cry. In another -moment Nahma's canoe, impelled by a noiseless paddle, was speeding in -that direction. He dared not at once reply to the signal for fear of -drawing a flight of Huron arrows; but as soon as he believed himself -beyond range of<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_117" id="Page_117">[Pg 117]</a></span> these he rested on his paddle and sent far across the -lake the vibrant cry of wah-o-nai-sa once and then twice.</p> - -<p>A full minute elapsed before the answer came, and then he was startled -by its nearness. Had he not known better, he would have sworn that -it was uttered by a bird in flight while passing directly above him. -Allowing his craft to drift, he listened and heard the quick dip of -many paddles. A fleet of canoes was rushing towards him, and, as he -began to distinguish their vague outlines, he uttered a low call to -attract attention.</p> - -<p>"Who is it?" demanded the voice of Sacandaga, sharply, as the speed of -the oncoming canoes was checked.</p> - -<p>"It is Massasoit," answered the lad.</p> - -<p>"Where is Grinning Beaver, thy companion? Did he utter the war-cry of -the Iroquois that came to us as we were entering our canoes for a night -of travel?"</p> - -<p>"I fear the Beaver is dead," replied Nahma. "And if so, he was killed -even with the sounding of his war-cry." </p> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_118" id="Page_118">[Pg 118]</a></span></p> - -<p>"Who killed him?" demanded Sacandaga, fiercely.</p> - -<p>"The Hurons."</p> - -<p>"How many are there?"</p> - -<p>"Only four did we encounter. Of these I saw one fall, and believe that -the Beaver, who was separated from me, killed another. One leaped into -the water and one I know escaped from the Beaver."</p> - -<p>"Were you on land or on the water?"</p> - -<p>"We were on land, and this is the canoe in which the Hurons came."</p> - -<p>"Where did it happen?"</p> - -<p>"At the beginning of a river that leads to the wide waters lying -towards the rising sun."</p> - -<p>"What know you of these wide waters? Have you been to them?"</p> - -<p>"Shortly before the coming of darkness were we there, and we turned -back to bring news of the war-party that we saw."</p> - -<p>"Hurons?"</p> - -<p>"Hurons, my father, and like the leaves of a tree for numbers. Also -they have with them an Oki to make timid the hearts of their enemies." </p> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_119" id="Page_119">[Pg 119]</a></span></p> - -<p>"What mean you by an Oki?"</p> - -<p>With this Nahma described as well as he could the strange being seen by -himself and the Beaver, and all who could get within hearing listened -to his words with breathless attention. When Nahma declared that the -apparition, though seen on a headland, still gleamed with wetness as -though just emerged from the lake, his auditors were deeply impressed. -Only Sacandaga was incredulous, and appeared to treat the incident as -of small account.</p> - -<p>"It is but a Huron trick!" he exclaimed, that all might hear. "They are -too cowardly to fight like men, but have prepared an image with the -hope that sight of it will turn our blood to water. It is well, though, -that we have learned of this thing and know what to expect. Now let us -find whether the Beaver is alive or dead, and if the Huron dogs have -indeed slain him, bitterly shall he be avenged before we are done with -them."</p> - -<p>So Nahma guided the Iroquois canoes to the place where he had uttered -that first fateful call of the whippoorwill, and Sacandaga, with half -a<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_120" id="Page_120">[Pg 120]</a></span> dozen warriors, made a landing on the very log beside which he had -lain.</p> - -<p>It took them but a few minutes to discover the body of their late -comrade cold in death and scalped; but there was no trace of those who -had perpetrated the deed. If he had indeed killed one of them, the -others had either hidden the body or taken it away.</p> - -<p>Having learned these things and thirsting for vengeance, the Iroquois -re-entered their canoes and glided silently down-stream towards the -place where their enemies were encamped.</p> - -<hr /> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_121" id="Page_121">[Pg 121]</a></span></p> - -<h2><span>CHAPTER XII</span> <span class="smaller">A MEETING OF DEADLY FOES</span></h2> - -<p>After carrying their canoes around the two waterfalls that obstruct -the outlet of Lake George, the Iroquois finally glided like so many -night-shadows out onto the surface of Lake Champlain. Then, guided by -the son of Longfeather, they approached the place where he had seen -the Hurons. Sacandaga had entered the canoe of the young scout that he -might learn more fully what had happened during the past two days; also -his place was in the leading canoe, that from it he might direct the -movements of his followers, who were now nearly two hundred in number.</p> - -<p>He had thought of attempting a night surprise of the northern invaders -by attacking their camp under cover of darkness; but this plan was -dismissed almost as soon as formed, for he remembered the prophecy of -Kaweras. The fight in which the Iroquois were to be successful must<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_122" id="Page_122">[Pg 122]</a></span> -take place in broad daylight and on a fair morning. The battle might -not, therefore, be waged at night, nor even on the morrow, unless it -were a day of cloudless sunshine. At the same time the Hurons must be -given no chance for escape, and to compel them to remain where they -were he stationed his force at the mouth of the cove in which lay their -fleet. This position was taken in silence and, it was thought, without -attracting attention.</p> - -<p>That the men from the north had, however, received notice of their -enemies' coming and were keenly on the alert to meet them was soon -proved by a jeering hail from the land.</p> - -<p>"Are the bark-eaters fish that they remain in the water? If they call -themselves men, why do they not come on shore and accept the welcome -awaiting them?"</p> - -<p>To this taunt the Iroquois replied with a chorus of fierce yells and -savage intimations of what would happen when they got ready to enter -the camp of the Huron dogs.</p> - -<p>So the night was spent in a brisk exchange of taunts, jeers, threats, -and insulting remarks<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_123" id="Page_123">[Pg 123]</a></span> well calculated to increase the bitterness of -the hate already existing between the two tribes. The Iroquois even -betrayed their knowledge of the mysterious being whom the Hurons had -called to their aid, and expressed the utmost contempt for him. To this -those on shore made no reply except to advise the Iroquois to call upon -their own gods for the aid they would surely need on the morrow.</p> - -<p>"Something has given them courage," remarked Sacandaga, "for never have -I known Hurons to talk so bravely in the presence of Iroquois. But we -will see whether their boldness can stand the test of daylight."</p> - -<p>At length the wished-for dawn arrived, and by its earliest gleams -Sacandaga landed his force at a point beyond arrow-shot of the Huron -camp and bade them light fires for the preparation of breakfast. He was -well aware of the fighting value of a full stomach, and was too wise a -leader not to seek every possible advantage even against a foe whom he -despised.</p> - -<p>Nor were the Hurons less ready to make the most of this opportunity for -preparing cooked<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_124" id="Page_124">[Pg 124]</a></span> food, the first time they had dared do so in several -days. Thus both parties remained hidden from each other, except through -the eyes of their watchful scouts, until the sun was an hour high. Not -only did Sacandaga wish to refresh his men by this rest, but he was -determined not to begin fighting until assured of conditions propitious -to his undertaking. With the weather, however, he had every reason to -be pleased, for never was a fairer morn. The sky was cloudless, the air -clear and crisp, the lake of a heavenly blue, and all nature was at its -best. As he looked about him he became elated over the certainty of his -forthcoming victory.</p> - -<p>"The Hurons have never yet been able to stand before an equal number of -Iroquois," he said, "and to-day with all things in our favor it will -be strange indeed if we do not wipe them out. But we may not delay, -lest the spirits become angry and send their lightnings to punish our -indifference to the favors they have shown. Let us, then, get to work -and finish this business quickly, that we may the more speedily return -to our own people." </p> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_125" id="Page_125">[Pg 125]</a></span></p> - -<p>Although Sacandaga was one of the most skilful warriors of his time, -and well versed in all the tricks of his trade as practised by forest -fighters, he saw fit in the present instance to lead his painted -savages to the attack in a compact body. As the Hurons occupied the -centre of a large cleared space so wide as to place them beyond the -reach of arrows from forest covers, this plan was in a measure forced -upon him. At the same time he hoped to overawe the enemy and terrify -him by the number and ferocious appearance of his followers. So the -Iroquois, half naked, painted, befeathered, decked with bears' claws -and wolf-tails, dashed from the forest yelling and brandishing their -weapons, and advanced with a rush to where the Hurons awaited them.</p> - -<p>The latter appeared terrified, and seemed to shrink from the impending -onslaught. Then their solid formation broke, leaving a wide gap, -from which stepped a single figure. The Iroquois were not more than -fifty paces distant; but at sight of this apparition they came to a -sudden halt and stood as though petrified with<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_126" id="Page_126">[Pg 126]</a></span> amazement. The figure -confronting them was indeed that described by Massasoit, only it loomed -up larger than they had expected, and gleamed with a dazzling lustre in -the bright sunlight. It had the form of a man, but its face was covered -with a growth of hair that hung down on its breast.</p> - -<p>The person who appeared so remarkable to the denizens of the forest -that they deemed him a god was none other than the intrepid French -explorer Samuel de Champlain, founder of the city of Quebec. With but -two followers he had been induced to accompany a war-party of Canadian -Indians on their foray into Iroquois territory, and was thus the first -of his race to look upon the waters of the noble lake that has ever -since borne his name.</p> - -<p>For a few moments the Iroquois gazed awe-stricken upon this first white -man they had ever seen. Then, relying upon the prophecy of Kaweras, -that only thunder and lightning could prevent them from winning a -victory, they bent their bows and let fly a cloud of arrows. Many of -these were aimed at the white man standing so<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_127" id="Page_127">[Pg 127]</a></span> boldly before them, -but, to their dismay, he remained unharmed. Nahma in particular, who -had shot at the very centre of the shining breastplate, was amazed and -terrified to see his arrow, after striking, bound back as though it had -encountered a wall of rock.</p> - -<p>But scant time was given for the consideration of this marvel; for, -even as they shot at him, the mysterious being brought into position -a strange-looking stick that he carried until it was pointed directly -at them. Then came a flash of lightning, a roar of thunder, a cloud of -smoke, and a dozen of the Iroquois fell to the ground as though smitten -by the wrath of God. As was afterwards proved, but two of them were -killed and one—Sacandaga—was grievously wounded, while the others had -fallen from sheer fright. At the same time the Hurons rushed forward -with triumphant yells and a flight of arrows.</p> - -<p>For a moment the Iroquois wavered and seemed about to fly. Then Nahma, -son of Longfeather, sprang to the front with a loud cry, and, swinging -a stone war-club above his head, made straight for the thunder-god -who had<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_128" id="Page_128">[Pg 128]</a></span> wrought such havoc. Champlain was in the act of drawing his -sword when he was staggered by a terrific blow that would surely have -killed him but for the steel cap that he wore. Before he could recover, -and ere a second blow could be delivered, there came another flash of -lightning accompanied by its thunderous roar from a clump of bushes at -one side, and two more Iroquois were stricken with sudden death.</p> - -<p>At this fresh proof that the all-powerful spirits were indeed fighting -against them the hearts of the Iroquois melted, and they fled from the -field a panic-stricken mob. Even Nahma joined in the mad flight; but he -paused long enough to pick up his wounded chieftain, whom he hoped to -be able to carry as far as the canoes.</p> - -<p>At their heels streamed the exultant Hurons, striking down the -fugitives by the score. One of these drove a spear through the body of -Sacandaga; and Nahma, staggering under his burden, was knocked down by -the force of the blow. As he disengaged himself from the dead sachem -and regained his feet he found himself once more face to face with the -awful being who<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_129" id="Page_129">[Pg 129]</a></span> held in his hands the thunders and lightning of a -Manitou.</p> - -<p>At this moment Champlain, who had found time to reload his musket, -fired a second shot into the ranks of the flying Iroquois. Ere -its smoke could lift, Nahma, frenzied with rage and reckless of -consequences, sprang upon the white man with uplifted knife. The -blow was urged with all the splendid strength of the young warrior's -arm, but it only bent the copper blade in his grasp and left him -defenceless. Ere he could renew his flight he was flung to the earth -and bound immovably with thongs of tough bark.</p> - -<div class="center"><a name="i133.jpg" id="i133.jpg"></a><img src="images/i133.jpg" alt="NAHMA SPRANG UPON THE WHITE MAN" /></div> - -<p class="bold">NAHMA SPRANG UPON THE WHITE MAN WITH UPLIFTED KNIFE</p> - -<p>Nahma's first battle was ended in utter defeat, but he did not feel -humiliated, for he believed that he had fought against immortal spirits -who could come to no harm from the hands of man. He only wondered -vaguely, as he lay awaiting the pleasure of his captors, why the Okis -should have ranged themselves on the side of the perfidious Hurons -instead of aiding the Iroquois, whom he then believed to be the most -nearly perfect of human beings.</p> - -<p>About one-half the force that Sacandaga had<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_130" id="Page_130">[Pg 130]</a></span> led so confidently to -battle that morning reached the canoes and continued their flight -up the lake. The Hurons did not pursue them, for they were too busy -killing or taking captive those who were left behind.</p> - -<p>By noon the whole affair was ended, and the triumphant Hurons, taking -with them twoscore of dejected prisoners, as many bloody Iroquois -scalps, and a number of canoes laden with spoils, set forth on their -return to the St. Lawrence.</p> - -<p>With them went Champlain, still thrilled with the excitement of -fighting and killing, but already disgusted with the barbarities of -his savage allies. Could he have foreseen that his act of that day had -created a powerful enemy who for two hundred years to come would let -pass no opportunity for the killing of a Frenchman, his thoughts would -have been still more sombre.</p> - -<p>In camp that night, while still occupied with his melancholy -reflections, he was accosted by one of his white companions, who said,—</p> - -<p>"Look yonder, monsieur. They are about to punish in pretty fashion the -young devil who twice this day attempted to take thy life."</p> - -<hr /> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_131" id="Page_131">[Pg 131]</a></span></p> - -<h2><span>CHAPTER XIII</span> <span class="smaller">TO THE LODGES OF THE WHITE MAN</span></h2> - -<p>Realizing that for some reason the all-powerful white man who had that -day given them a victory over their enemies was displeased, the Hurons -agreed after a long consultation that it must be because the only -one among the Iroquois who had dared attack him was still allowed to -live. So, although such pleasures were generally reserved for their -home-returning, they determined to sacrifice the audacious young -warrior on the spot with the hope of thus regaining the favor of their -allies. In order that he might thoroughly comprehend what was in store -for him, they decided that he should first witness the torture of one -of his companions. For this purpose a victim was selected at random -from among the captives, and the two young men, facing each other, were -securely bound to saplings standing but a few yards apart. </p> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_132" id="Page_132">[Pg 132]</a></span></p> - -<p>About the feet of each was piled a quantity of dry wood, and they were -ordered to chant their death-songs if they dared. The Maqua immediately -began in defiant tones to recount his own deeds of prowess on the -war-path, and tell how many Hurons he had slain. He hurled defiance at -his enemies, taunted them with their cowardice, and sought to so enrage -them that they would kill him at once; but Nahma remained dumb. He had -no deeds to tell of, nor was he in a humor to invent any.</p> - -<p>Suddenly the Hurons made a rush at the one who thus defied them, and -for a few minutes a fierce struggle raged about the helpless form. When -next it appeared in view its scalp had been torn off, while the still -living body was gashed and mutilated almost beyond recognition; but -defiant words still issued chokingly from its trembling lips. The poor -mortal frame was nearly spent, but its brave spirit was undaunted. The -next act of torture was by fire. Blazing splinters of fat pine were -thrust into the mangled body and hot ashes were poured on its bleeding -head. Then a light was applied to the dry wood,<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_133" id="Page_133">[Pg 133]</a></span> and in another minute -the eager flames were leaping high about their victim.</p> - -<p>The awful tragedy was accompanied by shrieks of laughter, mocking -yells, and a frantic dancing about the two young warriors, one of whom -was thus made to serve as a hideous object lesson to the other. When -the first was so nearly dead that his defiant utterances were reduced -to mere gaspings for breath, the dancing demons turned their attention -to the second victim, and prepared to inflict upon him a series of -still more devilish torments.</p> - -<p>Nahma had witnessed everything with fascinated gaze; but though -sickened to the point of fainting, had made no movement nor uttered a -sound to betray the agony of his thoughts. He now knew what to expect, -and was nerving himself to endure to the end, as became a warrior. -Aeana would never know, of course; but if by any chance the story of -his last hour should reach her ear, she must have no excuse to call him -"squaw."</p> - -<p>One of his tormentors approached with a bar of iron heated until it -glowed; for, through<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_134" id="Page_134">[Pg 134]</a></span> trading with the French, this metal was now known -to the Indians of the St. Lawrence valley.</p> - -<p>"Put out his eyes," shouted a spectator. "He has seen enough."</p> - -<p>As the glowing iron approached his face Nahma instinctively closed -his eyes; but a yell of derision from those near enough to note the -movement caused him to open them again quickly. But even in that brief -space something had happened, for the first thing on which they rested -was a gigantic figure bounding towards him. It uttered inarticulate -cries of rage and brandished a weapon. With a single blow from this -it dashed to earth the man bearing the red-hot iron. Falling on his -own instrument of torture, the wretch uttered a yell of pain as it -seared his flesh. At the same moment the terrible new-comer levelled -his weapon at the mutilated form bound to the opposite stake, and -with a flash of lightning accompanied by a stunning burst of thunder, -instantly freed the tortured spirit from its misery.</p> - -<p>Before the smoke of the discharge cleared away the new-comer was beside -Nahma, cutting savagely at his bonds. As the last one dropped<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_135" id="Page_135">[Pg 135]</a></span> he -grasped the young warrior by an arm and led him a few paces from the -cruel stake. Then turning to the sullen Hurons, who shrank from the -indignant blaze of his eyes, he denounced them in bitter terms.</p> - -<p>"You are worse than wolves," he cried. "You are scum and <i>canaille</i>. -You are devils, and should be made to dwell forever in a pit of fire. -Because you go forth to fight against a man and he meets you bravely, -is that a reason for torturing him when the fortune of war has placed -him helpless in your hands? This youth was the only one of all his -people who dared attack me face to face and hand to hand. Better still, -he was the only Iroquois brave enough to attempt the succor of their -wounded chieftain. He is fleet of foot and might easily have escaped, -but he would not go alone. So he fell into your inhuman hands, and as -a reward for his bravery you propose to torture him to death. Bah! You -make me so sick that I have a mind to sever all connection with you -from this hour, and order my men to beat you from my sight with sticks. -Now remember that this youth is <i>my</i> captive, and whoever touches so<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_136" id="Page_136">[Pg 136]</a></span> -much as a hair of his head shall die, for I will not have him harmed.</p> - -<p>"Come, lad, with me," added Champlain, turning to Nahma; "you shall eat -and rest, and after that if you desire to return to your own people -you shall be free to do so. Only it would please me to have you remain -a little for instruction in the ways of white men and the making of a -better acquaintance between us, for I have taken a fancy to you beyond -any that I have yet entertained for a native of this wilderness."</p> - -<p>Although Nahma understood no word of what the marvellous stranger said, -he recognized the friendly tone and gesture, and was quite willing to -follow wherever the other might lead. As they were about to move away a -chief of the Hurons stood in the path and begged for a hearing.</p> - -<p>"It is true," he said, "that we would have killed this young man; but -it is because we thought our white father angry that he still lived. -Also is it true that in any case we should have put him to death on -reaching the place of our own people. We must have done this, for if -we should let him live he would sooner or later make<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_137" id="Page_137">[Pg 137]</a></span> an escape, and -in escaping would surely kill some of our people. It is because he is -a brave warrior that we could not let him live to do us mischief. If -he were a coward, then could we make of him a slave to hoe corn with -the squaws; but with a brave man this might not be done. Also because -of his bravery would we have tested him by fire, that he might give -proof of his courage to the very end of his life. Any brave man, Huron -or Iroquois, would rather perish at the stake than live the life of -a slave. It is our way, and if it be not also the way of our white -father, let him not cover us with shame on account of it, for we have -not yet learned one that is better."</p> - -<p>"You have spoken well," answered Champlain, "and already am I penitent -for my hasty words, since, as you say, you were only acting according -to your conception of what is right. Therefore I forgive you and will -continue to extend the hand of friendship. At the same time, see you to -it that no more atrocities are enacted in my presence. Also see to it -that this youth is accorded the respect due him over whom my protection -is extended." </p> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_138" id="Page_138">[Pg 138]</a></span></p> - -<p>So it came to pass that Nahma, son of Longfeather, now known as -Massasoit the Iroquois, was saved from a dreadful death to become the -companion of the first white man he had ever met, who was also one of -the foremost adventurers of his age.</p> - -<p>Although Champlain had laid aside his steel armor, he was still so -utterly different in appearance from any person Nahma had ever seen -that the latter continued to regard him as a supernatural being, and -accompanied him with much trepidation. Also the youth was dazed by the -peril he had just escaped and the strangeness of his deliverance.</p> - -<p>As they went towards Champlain's own camp-fire, Nahma noticed for the -first time that two more of the strange beings walked close beside -them; and, listening to their conversation, though of course without -understanding it, he all at once became convinced that they were indeed -human like himself. Moreover, it flashed into his mind that they must -be of that white race concerning which he had heard much talk in the -lodge of Kaweras. By that shrewd Indian the apparently<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_139" id="Page_139">[Pg 139]</a></span> meaningless -words repeated by Nahma during his illness had been conjectured to -belong to the vocabulary of white men, and he had said as much to his -young guest. Thinking of these things and acting upon a sudden impulse, -just as they reached Champlain's separate camp Nahma exclaimed,—</p> - -<p>"Hillo!"</p> - -<p>The three white men stared at him in amazement.</p> - -<p>"Sacré!" added the young warrior.</p> - -<p>"What have we here?" cried Champlain. "A savage from the interior -wilderness speaking both English and French. It is incredible.—My -young friend, who taught you the tongues of the Old World? Where have -you met white men?"</p> - -<p>"Mass, I saw it," remarked Nahma. He was well pleased at the effect -of the words already used, but looked for a still greater exhibition -of amazement on the part of his hearers at this final utterance. To -his disappointment, they only gazed blankly and evidently without -understanding.</p> - -<p>"That is evidently a native word, and must be<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_140" id="Page_140">[Pg 140]</a></span> his own name," said -Champlain. "Massasoit. It hath a pleasing sound and fits well his -aspect. Not only has he proved himself to be braver than any of his -fellows, but he hath a look of superior intelligence. For these -things I had thought to afford him opportunity of escaping during the -night, and so of making his way back to his own people. Now, however, -he has so aroused my interest and curiosity with his fluency in -foreign tongues that I cannot afford to loose him until we are better -acquainted. See to it, therefore, that he does not escape."</p> - -<p>Thus Nahma, who if he had held his tongue would have been set free, -was still retained as a captive and borne northward by the victorious -Hurons. The journey down the lake, through the rapid Richelieu, and -over the broad flood of the mighty St. Lawrence was full of interest -and novel sensations to our lad. None of them was, however, to be -compared with the wonder and amazement that filled his soul on the -evening of the tenth day of travel, when they came to Quebec, and he -gazed for the first time on the lodges of white men.</p> - -<hr /> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_141" id="Page_141">[Pg 141]</a></span></p> - -<h2><span>CHAPTER XIV</span> <span class="smaller">TWO INMATES OF A GUARD-HOUSE</span></h2> - -<p>Samuel de Champlain was one of the most daring and persistent of -explorers in the New World. Before coming of age he visited the West -Indies and Mexico, going down the Pacific coast of the latter country -as far as Panama. Then as he crossed the isthmus he conceived the idea, -which he afterwards made public, of a ship canal that should connect -the two oceans. His next voyage, inspired by the published narrative of -Jacques Cartier, carried him into the St. Lawrence and up that mighty -river as far as Hochelaga (Montreal), which point Cartier had also -reached nearly seventy years earlier.</p> - -<p>Champlain subsequently explored the coasts of Canada and New England, -helped to found the unfortunate settlements of St. Croix and Port -Royal, and sailed to the southward as far as Cape Cod. On his way he -stopped in Boston harbor,<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_142" id="Page_142">[Pg 142]</a></span> which he describes as being filled with -heavily wooded islands. He also discovered the Charles River, and named -it Rivière du Guast. On the following day he took refuge from a gale -in Plymouth harbor, which he named Port St. Louis, and which he thus -visited long before the Pilgrims landed on its shores.</p> - -<p>After spending some years on the coast and crossing the Atlantic -several times, the energetic Frenchman again entered the St. Lawrence -and sailed as far as Stadaconie, where Cartier first and after him -Roberval had planted ill-starred and short-lived settlements. At this -point Champlain determined to establish a base from which to explore -the vast regions that, hidden in savage mystery, stretched away -indefinitely on all sides. It should also be head-quarters for the -greatest fur trade the world had ever known, and for the religious -institutions from which he hoped to spread Christianity among the -heathen.</p> - -<p>Here, then, on a narrow strand at the foot of towering cliffs, he set -his men to work, and before the summer was ended they had erected three -spacious buildings, enclosed them within a stout<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_143" id="Page_143">[Pg 143]</a></span> palisade, planted -defensive batteries, dug a moat around the whole, cleared land for a -garden, and opened up a trade with the neighboring Indians. Thus was -begun a city destined to become one of the most important of the New -World, and to it Champlain gave the name of Quebec, which was his -pronunciation of a native word signifying a narrowing of the river.</p> - -<p>In Quebec, twenty-seven years later, the great Frenchman died, leaving -behind him a record of adventure and achievement such as but few others -could show. He had succeeded where many had failed, and had established -an empire in the New World. He had crossed the ocean more than a score -of times to make himself equally welcome in the court circles of -France and beside the council-fires of Huron warriors. He had explored -the Ottawa to its head-waters, crossed the divide to Lake Nipissing, -descended to Georgian Bay, and was the first white man to gaze upon the -inland sea that he named Lake Huron. He next discovered Lake Ontario, -crossed it in a bark canoe, and penetrated the Iroquois country as far -as the site<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_144" id="Page_144">[Pg 144]</a></span> of Syracuse. In the beautiful lake that bears his name he -has an enduring monument. He started on the journey that ended on Lake -Champlain with the hope, then common to all explorers, of discovering -a western passage to China, and only failed because he could not find -what did not exist. Instead of it, he discovered, saved from an awful -death, and carried to Quebec the youth who was to become known to the -world as Massasoit, chief of the Wampanoags.</p> - -<p>Champlain had long been looking for some young Indian of intelligence -and proved courage whom he might teach to speak his own language, -attach to his person, and employ to advantage in his proposed -explorations. In Nahma he believed he had found all the desired -qualities, and, what was still better, the youth, being an Iroquois, -would never join any Huron conspiracy against the French. The shrewd -adventurer was therefore greatly pleased with his prize and impatient -to begin his training. At the same time he found his Huron allies so -jealous of his liking for an Iroquois, that while he remained in their -company he dared not treat his captive with any marked<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_145" id="Page_145">[Pg 145]</a></span> attention. He -saw that Nahma was provided with food, and would not permit him to be -beaten or abused, as were some of the prisoners, but that was all. He -dared not even have the youth in his own canoe, much as he wished to -gain his confidence. Thus, Nahma saw but little of his white companions -on the weary journey that finally ended at Quebec.</p> - -<p>At the mouth of the Richelieu the victorious war-party disbanded, the -larger number, together with most of the prisoners, going up the St. -Lawrence towards their homes on the Ottawa, and only half a dozen -canoes of Montagnais, who dwelt on the Saguenay, followed Champlain -down the great river. As these came within sight of Quebec they raised -a triumphant war-song and plied their paddles with redoubled energy, -while Champlain and the other white men discharged their muskets in -token of victory. This was the first news of their absent leader -received by the anxious garrison since his departure, and in their joy -over his safe return they gave him a thunderous welcome from their -cannon.</p> - -<p>Not only did this dreadful sound nearly <span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_146" id="Page_146">[Pg 146]</a></span>paralyze poor Nahma, but it -so terrified a small party of Indians who were trading within the -fort that they rushed from it in dismay, took to their canoes, and -paddled off with all speed. So precipitate was their flight that they -left behind one of their number, who in his terror had leaped from a -second-story window of the trading house and broken a leg.</p> - -<p>Champlain had left his infant colony in charge of Pierre Chauvin, a -smart young officer, who now met him outside the palisades with tidings -that caused an instant change of plan. The only ship that would return -to France that year had dropped down to Tadousac for a lading of furs -but two days earlier. For a moment Champlain hesitated, and then his -mind was made up. He must board that ship before she sailed, for he had -despatches of the utmost importance to send home by her. Thus he must -immediately hasten to Tadousac. This decision he imparted to Chauvin, -adding,—</p> - -<p>"I will shortly return, and until then take thou good care of this -youth." Here the speaker indicated Nahma. "See that he escape not, for -his<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_147" id="Page_147">[Pg 147]</a></span> security is of importance to our cause. Keep him, then, safely -until I come again, when I will inform thee further concerning him. <i>Au -revoir, mon ami.</i> May the saints protect thee."</p> - -<p>Thus saying, Champlain rejoined his Indian allies, who were impatient -to be off, and in another minute was again sweeping down the great -river. By his order Nahma had been hastily bundled ashore, and now -stood gazing first at the wonderful structures rising close at hand -and then at the disappearing canoes. Chauvin stood near by, biting his -moustache and growling at his chief's sudden departure.</p> - -<p>"I wish I were in his place," he muttered; "and if once I could set -foot on shipboard I would sail away never again to revisit this -detestable country. How now, you spawn! What are you staring at?" he -cried, suddenly turning upon Nahma, who was looking curiously at him.</p> - -<p>Chauvin hated Indians as he did everything else in the country that had -so bitterly disappointed his dreams of easily acquired wealth, and he -was disgusted that one of them should now be left in his care. </p> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_148" id="Page_148">[Pg 148]</a></span></p> - -<p>"Away with him to the guard-house!" he shouted to a couple of soldiers -in attendance, "and keep him in close confinement until the governor's -return, since that is his Excellency's order."</p> - -<p>So Nahma was roughly hustled away, led inside the palisade, across -the enclosed court, and thrust into the guard-house. It was a small -structure solidly built of logs, having a rude stone chimney and a -single unglazed window some eighteen inches square that was fitted with -iron bars and could be closed from the outside by a heavy shutter. -There were also bars across the throat of the chimney. The floor was -of earth and the room was unfurnished. As the massive door of this -dungeon swung to with a crash behind him the young Indian stood for a -moment motionless. Then, in a frenzy of rage, he dashed himself against -the immovable barrier, clutched at the window-bars in a vain effort to -wrench them from their fastenings, and rushed about the narrow space, -seeking some outlet, like a wild animal when first caged.</p> - -<p>While our lad was thus engaged the door of<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_149" id="Page_149">[Pg 149]</a></span> his prison was again flung -open and two soldiers entered. Still possessed by his frenzy, Nahma -sprang forward, determined to kill them and make good his escape or die -in the attempt; but the sight of a burden that they bore caused him to -pause. It was the form of another Indian youth apparently helpless. -Behind them came others bringing straw, two blankets, food, and a jug -of water. With the straw and blankets they made a bed in one corner, on -which they laid the wounded youth. Then without a word to the prisoner -they departed, barring the door behind them.</p> - -<p>Now our lad had at least something to occupy his mind and divert his -thoughts from his own unhappiness. He saw that the new-comer was -neither a Huron nor an Iroquois; but as he bent over him and began to -ask questions he discovered that they had many words of the wide-spread -Algonquin tongue in common. Thus he quickly learned that the other was -named Tasquanto, that he was of a band of the Abenakis who had come -to Quebec to trade, and that, terrified by the awful noise of cannon, -he had leaped<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_150" id="Page_150">[Pg 150]</a></span> from a window and broken a leg. His comrades having -deserted him, he had been brought to the guard-house that the only -other Indian remaining in the fort might wait upon him.</p> - -<p>So Nahma was provided with an occupation that probably prevented -him from either killing himself in his despair or losing his mind. -Thanks to the teaching of Kaweras, he was able to set and properly -bandage Tasquanto's broken limb, and for weeks thereafter he was his -fellow-prisoner's devoted attendant.</p> - -<p>In the mean time the green of summer was succeeded by the gorgeous -tints of autumn, and its short-lived glory gave way to the white -desolation of a northern winter; but Champlain did not return to -Quebec, nor did any word come from him. At the end of two months -Chauvin sent messengers to Tadousac; but they returned without having -seen a living soul, white or red; and not until the weary winter was -half spent did the garrison of that lonely fort learn what had become -of the leader whom they were mourning as dead.</p> - -<hr /> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_151" id="Page_151">[Pg 151]</a></span></p> - -<h2><span>CHAPTER XV</span> <span class="smaller">THE BITTER WINTER OF CANADA</span></h2> - -<p>The Canadian winter, that is now a time of so much animation and gayety -in the city of Quebec, proved a season of terror, starvation, sickness, -and death to the handful of Frenchmen left by Champlain to guard his -infant settlement. At its beginning they recklessly squandered their -stores, eating and drinking with no thought of the morrow. If Champlain -had been with them he would have taught them differently, for he had -already passed several winters in the country and knew their bitter -meaning. But, lacking his wise guidance, they indulged in riotous -living until suddenly they came face to face with famine. The winter -was not more than half spent when this happened, and they began to -suffer from hunger.</p> - -<p>Now that it was too late for any real good, Chauvin seized every -particle of food that remained, locked it up, and doled it out to his -men<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_152" id="Page_152">[Pg 152]</a></span> in such meagre allowance as barely served to keep life in their -shivering bodies. He also sent them into the woods to hunt, or to -dig roots and groundnuts, with which to help out their scanty fare. -He had expected to be able to purchase all the provisions he needed -from Indians, who, during the summer, had brought game to the fort -in abundance, but now not a native was to be seen except a few poor -wretches who came empty-handed and as beggars.</p> - -<p>Unlike their brethren of the south, who cultivated fields and stored -harvests for the winter, the improvident dwellers of that region lived -wholly by hunting, feasting while game was plentiful and starving when -it was gone.</p> - -<p>In all this time no one within the limits of that wretched fort -suffered as did the son of Longfeather. From the day that he was thrust -into his prison he was not allowed to leave it for a breath of outside -air, or a glimpse of the freedom for which his soul longed, until it -seemed as though he would rather die than remain within those hated -walls another minute.</p> - -<p>And with it all he had no idea why he was<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_153" id="Page_153">[Pg 153]</a></span> thus confined or what fate -was in store for him. Only, as days, weeks, and months passed, he -became more and more certain that he was to have no release save only -by death itself. But one thing kept him from seeking this instead of -waiting for it, and that was the friendship of the young Indian who, -wounded and helpless, had been brought to him during the first hour of -his imprisonment. Tasquanto's recovery was slow, and for many weeks he -depended upon Nahma for everything. It did not take long for these two, -drawn to each other by the bonds of race and a common misfortune, to -cement a friendship, and swear that they would either gain freedom or -perish together.</p> - -<p>Although they could not plan an escape from their closely guarded -prison and must wait for chance to aid them, they spent hours in -discussing the course to be pursued if ever they got beyond those hated -walls.</p> - -<p>"We must make all haste to cross the river," said Tasquanto, "for the -Hurons would quickly kill us if we remained on this side. If it is -frozen that will be easy. If not, we must steal one of<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_154" id="Page_154">[Pg 154]</a></span> the clumsy -boats of these awkward white men, who make everything bigger and -heavier than is needful. On the other side we will conceal ourselves -until we can build a canoe, and then we will go southward. Beyond that -I cannot see, for if we go to the country of thy people, they will kill -me; while it would be dangerous for thee, an Iroquois, to be found in -my country."</p> - -<p>"But I am not of the Iroquois," protested Nahma.</p> - -<p>"Not of the Iroquois! Who, then, are thy people?"</p> - -<p>"That I know not. I was found among the Maquas, who are a tribe of -the Iroquois, sorely wounded and without memory of aught that had -ever happened before that time. Since then I have been an Iroquois by -adoption, but it is certain that I am not one by birth."</p> - -<p>This statement so changed the aspect of affairs that it was agreed they -should travel towards the country of the Abenakis in case an escape -could be effected. It also afforded a fruitful topic of speculation, -and thus helped pass the weary hours.</p> - -<p>Finally, the time came when Tasquanto was<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_155" id="Page_155">[Pg 155]</a></span> so fully recovered that he -was sent out to hunt food for the hungry garrison, and during the day -Nahma was left alone, since only at night was his companion allowed to -rejoin him. Chauvin realized that if both were sent into the woods they -would at once make good their escape; while, from the friendship he had -noted between them, he felt assured that Tasquanto would return to his -comrade so long as the latter was held. Nor did he dare allow Nahma to -escape while there was a chance of Champlain's return.</p> - -<p>So our poor lad shivered and starved in his hated prison-house, finding -his only occupation in making snow-shoes from materials furnished by -Tasquanto. He designed them for his own use, but they were taken from -him by his guards as fast as completed, so that in the end he had -nothing to show for his labors. One night a great grief befell him; -Tasquanto failed to appear at the usual hour, nor did he come during -the night, though Nahma watched and waited for him until morning. He -asked eager questions of the guard who brought his miserable breakfast, -but the man refused to answer, and all that day our<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_156" id="Page_156">[Pg 156]</a></span> lad sat in a -lethargy of despair, careless whether he lived or died.</p> - -<p>The following night was one of furious storm and bitter cold. The north -wind roaring through the bending forest shrieked and howled in savage -glee as it struck the forlorn little outpost of white men. It leaped -down the wide-throated chimneys and scattered their fires. It slammed -shutters and doors, while if any ventured abroad, it blinded and choked -them with stinging volleys of snowdrift. So fierce and deadly was it -that even military discipline came to an end, and all sentries were -permitted to abandon their posts.</p> - -<p>Nahma sat alone in the dark, numbed and nearly perished with the cold, -for he had burned up the last bit of fuel brought him two days earlier -by Tasquanto, and none had been supplied since. In the many voices of -the storm, now shrill and clamorous, then deep and menacing, and again -filled with weird moanings that died in long-drawn sighs, he heard the -spirits of the dead, the Okis of another world, calling to him, and -bidding him share their wild freedom. He knew that he had but to yield -to the drowsiness<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_157" id="Page_157">[Pg 157]</a></span> already overpowering him, and the deadly cold would -speedily release him from all earthly prisons. Perhaps Tasquanto's -spirit was among those now calling; yes, he was sure of it, for he -recognized his friend's voice. "Massasoit," it called, "Massasoit, wake -up! It is I, Tasquanto, thy brother. Wake up and come to me."</p> - -<p>The cry was agonized in its intensity, and after a little even -Nahma's dulling senses recognized that it was uttered by human lips. -At the same time he felt that the storm was beating on his face, and -struggling weakly to his feet, he gained the window through which it -came. Its shutter was wide open, and beyond its bars stood Tasquanto -speaking to him.</p> - -<p>"I thought thee dead, my brother, for I have called many times without -answer," said Tasquanto, as he became aware that his friend was at hand.</p> - -<p>"And I believed thy voice to be that of thy spirit, for I also thought -thee gone to the place of the dead," replied Nahma. "Why have you -remained away from me these many hours?"</p> - -<p>"It is because they drove me from the gate,<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_158" id="Page_158">[Pg 158]</a></span> saying that my hunting -was of no avail, and that I should not longer eat of their stores. But -I could not go, my brother, without word with thee, and now has the -storm-god given me a chance for speaking. If it were not for these bars -we could do more than speak, for those who kept guard have been driven -to shelter, and there is none to hinder us from going away together. -But they may not be broken, and so we must wait until other means are -found for thy release. But fear not that I will desert thee. I have -found a way for passing the wall, and will come to this place whenever -it may be done without notice. In the mean time I will prepare for our -flight. Already have I built a lodge in a safe place beyond the river, -and——"</p> - -<p>Here Tasquanto's words were suddenly interrupted, and the heavy shutter -was slammed to as though by a fierce gust of wind. Then the door was -flung open and the faint gleam of a horn lantern illumined the interior.</p> - -<p>A little earlier on that same evening Chauvin, while talking with one -of his officers concerning Champlain and his unexplained absence, had -been<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_159" id="Page_159">[Pg 159]</a></span> reminded of the young Indian whom the governor had consigned to -his care, but to whom he had not given a thought in many days. Now he -inquired carelessly whether he were alive or dead.</p> - -<p>"I know not," replied the officer, who, following his chief's example, -had not concerned himself about the fate of so insignificant a being as -a captive Indian.</p> - -<p>"And why do you not know?" cried Chauvin, with a sudden burst of -petulant rage. "It is your duty to know, and to be ready with instant -report concerning everything taking place within the walls of Quebec. -Do you think because the governor chooses to absent himself for a while -that no one is left here to maintain his authority? By the saints, -monsieur, I will give you cause to remember that Pierre Chauvin is not -to be trifled with, and that when he asks a question he expects it to -be promptly answered. Go, then, at once, sir, and inform yourself by -personal observation of the condition of this prisoner, or haply you -may find yourself in his place."</p> - -<p>Without daring to reply, the bewildered officer<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_160" id="Page_160">[Pg 160]</a></span> bowed and left the -room. Thus it happened that, accompanied by a soldier whom he had -summoned to attend him, he came to Nahma's prison-house in time to -interrupt the conversation between him and Tasquanto and frighten the -latter into a precipitate retreat.</p> - -<p>Finding, to his satisfaction, that the prisoner was still alive, the -officer demanded of the soldier why, in such weather, he was kept -without fire.</p> - -<p>The soldier replied that it had been left to the other Indian to -provide the guard-house with fuel; whereupon his superior passed out to -him the rating he himself had received from Chauvin.</p> - -<p>"And so, <i>canaille</i>, you leave your duties to be performed by a -miserable skulking savage. A pretty state of affairs in a king's -fortress. Bring wood at once, sir, and fire, also fetch something in -the way of food, for this wretch looks like to die of starvation, a -thing that may not be allowed of the governor's own prisoner, even -though he be a heathen."</p> - -<p>So on that night of bitter tempest not only were Nahma's spirits raised -by a new hope, but<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_161" id="Page_161">[Pg 161]</a></span> the horrors of freezing and starvation that had -threatened his life were sensibly mitigated. Two days later came the -first word received from Champlain since his hurried departure for -Tadousac four months earlier.</p> - -<hr /> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_162" id="Page_162">[Pg 162]</a></span></p> - -<h2><span>CHAPTER XVI</span> <span class="smaller">A DASH FOR LIBERTY</span></h2> - -<p>The mystery of Champlain's disappearance weighed heavily on the -spirits of the forlorn little garrison left to hold Quebec. He had -been the life and mainstay of the colony, the firm rock upon which it -was founded. Without him there seemed no hope of its continuance or -of relief from their distress. They were convinced that he was dead, -for they knew he would never have left them without at least sending -a message to tell where he had gone. So they mourned him sincerely if -also selfishly, and planned to abandon his settlement at the first -opportunity, if indeed any should offer.</p> - -<p>The great storm cast an added gloom over the garrison, and they were so -unhappy that every man was ready to fly at his neighbor's throat upon -the slightest provocation, when a small band of Indians was reported -to be making a camp near at hand. Instantly every face brightened,<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_163" id="Page_163">[Pg 163]</a></span> -for it was thought that they must have brought provisions to trade for -goods. Thus, when, a little later, one of them approached the fort, he -was given prompt admittance. Being conducted to the presence of the -commandant, he announced that his people were so very hungry that they -had come to the white men to beg a little food from their abundant -stores. At the same time he had brought a message from the great white -chief, for which he was entitled to a reward.</p> - -<p>With this the Indian produced a folded paper, greasy and grimed with -dirt, which he handed to Chauvin.</p> - -<p>As the latter unfolded it he uttered an exclamation, for it contained a -note written in French and signed "Champlain." Its condition rendered -it difficult to decipher, but as the reader gradually mastered its -contents his face darkened, until suddenly he sprang up, seized a -stick, and began furiously to belabor the astonished savage, who had -been waiting in smiling expectancy for his reward. With a howl of -pained surprise, he leaped back and rushed from the building with the -enraged commandant in hot pursuit. </p> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_164" id="Page_164">[Pg 164]</a></span></p> - -<p>Not until the terrified native had escaped from the fort and -disappeared in the forest did Chauvin give over his chase. Then, to the -amazement of his men, he ordered a cannon to be loaded and fired in -the direction taken by the object of his wrath. Although the crashing -ball did no damage, it, and the roar of the gun bursting upon the -winter stillness, so frightened the recently arrived Indians that they -instantly abandoned their partially constructed camp and fled in hot -haste from that hostile neighborhood.</p> - -<p>Refusing to answer questions, and so leaving the curiosity of his men -unsatisfied, Chauvin returned to his quarters, and lifting Champlain's -note from the floor where he had flung it, read it for the second time -with gritting teeth and bitter maledictions. It was dated four months -earlier, and read as follows:</p> - -<blockquote><p>"<span class="smcap">My Good Friend Pierre</span>:</p> - -<p>"I am just arrived at Tadousac and find the ship about to sail. I -also find it to be of the last importance that one of us should -return in her to France. Had I known this two days earlier,<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_165" id="Page_165">[Pg 165]</a></span> or -could I get word to you in season, the mission would devolve upon -you, since I am loath to leave at this time. As it happens, I -myself must go; but will return in earliest spring. So, my friend, -until then everything is left to you. Husband carefully your -provisions, keep up the spirits of your men, and maintain friendly -relations with the natives. I forward this by a messenger, whom you -will suitably reward for its prompt delivery. Regretting that we -may not exchange duties, for I would gladly remain, I sign myself, -as ever,</p> - -<p class="right">"Thy friend,<span class="s3"> </span><br /> -"<span class="smcap">Champlain</span>."</p></blockquote> - -<p>"Death and furies!" cried Chauvin, again flinging the note to the floor -and grinding it beneath his heel. "To think that while we have mourned -him as dead he has been all the time comfortably in France. Also that -I might have gone in his stead if only he could have got word to me in -time. Ten thousand thunders! It would enrage a saint! Maintain friendly -relations with the natives, forsooth! I would I could blow them all to -eternity. Suitably reward that rascal <span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_166" id="Page_166">[Pg 166]</a></span>messenger! Burning at the stake -would be too good for him. And, heavens! all this time we have been -keeping one of the scoundrels in luxurious idleness, gorging him with -food robbed from our own bellies, providing him with fire and lodging -to gratify a whim of the governor's, doubtless long since forgotten. -But not another minute shall he thus impose upon us. He shall go, and -that with such speed as will amaze him."</p> - -<p>With this the angry commandant again descended to the court, summoned -all the able-bodied men of the garrison, and bade them form a double -line outside the guard-house door, after first providing themselves -with cudgels. "The red whelp inside," he said, "has without recompense -devoured our substance long enough. Now, therefore, I propose to send -him forth bearing tokens of our regard that may not be forgotten in -haste. Watch sharply, then, and remember that any man failing to deal -him at least one blow shall go without his supper this night. Are you -ready? It is well!"</p> - -<p>Thus saying, Chauvin unlocked the guard-house door and flung it open -preparatory to stepping<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_167" id="Page_167">[Pg 167]</a></span> inside and driving out with blows its solitary -occupant. The next moment he was hurled sprawling to the ground, and a -slight, half-naked figure, animated by desperation, was darting with -such speed between the lines of unprepared soldiers that some failed -even to go through the motions of striking at him, while others wasted -their blows on the empty air. Uttering yells of delight at the novel -nature of this entertainment, they ran after him; but they might as -well have pursued a fleeting shadow. Before they could head him off he -had sped through the open gate and was gone.</p> - -<p>After Tasquanto's visit Nahma's shutter had been nailed up, so that -he no longer had even the poor consolation of gazing out on the blank -wall of palisades. Nor could he employ his hands, for he was now in -darkness, save for such faint gleams as filtered down his chimney. -Under these conditions he believed that he might speedily die, and -planned for one last effort at escape before his waning strength should -turn to utter weakness. On that very day he had determined that when -next his prison door was opened it<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_168" id="Page_168">[Pg 168]</a></span> should never again close on his -living body. So he sat watching it with feverish impatience.</p> - -<p>The roar of Chauvin's vengeful cannon startled him and at the same time -gave him a vague hope of some unusual happening that might result in -his favor. So he became keenly alert, and was not taken by surprise -when, without previous warning, the door of the guard-house was flung -open. Dropping from his shoulders the blanket which alone had saved -him from freezing, the youth sprang forward, reckless of consequences, -and a minute later, without an idea of how the miracle had been -accomplished, found himself outside the fort and speeding towards -the icebound river. So blinded were his eyes by the unaccustomed -light and glare of snow that until now he had seen nothing save the -figure that had opened his door, and his movements had been guided by -instinct rather than knowledge. The single fact indelibly impressed -upon his brain was that Tasquanto waited somewhere beyond the river. -Consequently that was the one direction for him to take, and he would -doubtless have plunged into its waters, had they been free, as<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_169" id="Page_169">[Pg 169]</a></span> readily -as he now leaped upon its snow-covered surface.</p> - -<p>So long as he was within sight of the fort and within range of its guns -his strength lasted, and he sped forward with the same fleetness that -had formerly aroused the wonder of his Iroquois friends. Thus he gained -the middle of the river, and climbed a rugged ridge of hummocks and -huge ice-blocks upheaved during the final struggle of rebellious waters -against the mighty forces of the frost-king.</p> - -<p>On the farther side of this our poor lad faltered, staggered, and -then sank with a groan. The nervous strength that had borne him thus -far was exhausted, and in this place of temporary safety it yielded -to the weakness of his long imprisonment. He had made a splendid dash -for liberty, but now he had reached the limit of his powers, and must -either be recaptured within a short space or die of the bitter cold. -Even as he lay with closed eyes gasping for breath he felt its numbing -clutch, and knew that very shortly he would be powerless against it. -But it did not matter. He would at least die in possession of the -freedom for which he had longed, and, after<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_170" id="Page_170">[Pg 170]</a></span> all, what had he to live -for? He was friendless, homeless, and without even a people whom he -might call his own. No tribe claimed him, there was no lodge within -which he had the right of shelter. It would be much better in the land -of spirits, for there his own would know him as he would know them. -The trail to it was easy and short, also it was a very pleasant path, -bright with sunshine and gay with flowers. There was music of singing -birds, and already were the voices of his own people calling to him. -"Massasoit!" they cried, "Massasoit!" Then they named him brother and -bade him open his eyes that he might see them. So he opened his eyes -and gazed into the anxious face of Tasquanto, who knelt beside him -rubbing vigorously at his limbs and slapping him smartly to restore -circulation in the numbing body.</p> - -<p>He smiled happily at sight of Nahma's unclosed eyes, but did not for -an instant desist from his rubbings and slappings until the other at -length sat up, and then unsteadily regained his feet.</p> - -<p>"Now, my brother," said Tasquanto, taking a robe of skins from his own -shoulders as he spoke<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_171" id="Page_171">[Pg 171]</a></span> and throwing it about Nahma, "together must we -reach the lodge I have prepared, for I will never return to it alone. -The trail is long and hard, but it must be overcome or we shall perish -together."</p> - -<p>So the journey was begun, Nahma at first leaning heavily on his -comrade's supporting arm, but gaining new strength with each step. -As he had taken neither nourishment nor stimulant, this was wholly -owing to the effect upon his spirits of renewed hope and a cheery -companionship. As they walked Tasquanto told him how, ever since the -storm, his attempts at communication had been frustrated, how in the -mean time he had increased the comforts of his hidden lodge, how at -sound of Chauvin's cannon he had hastened towards the fort to learn -the cause of the firing, and of the overwhelming joy with which he -had discovered Nahma as the latter topped the ice-ridge in the middle -of the river. Then Nahma related as well as he could the details of -his wonderful escape from the fort, and by the time his narrative was -ended they were come to the rude lodge that Tasquanto had built in -anticipation of just such a need as had now arisen.</p> - -<hr /> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_172" id="Page_172">[Pg 172]</a></span></p> - -<h2><span>CHAPTER XVII</span> <span class="smaller">A DEATH-DEALING THUNDER-STICK</span></h2> - -<p>Tasquanto's lodge was snugly hidden in a dense growth of heavy timber -near the place where the Chaudière flows into the St. Lawrence. It was -merely a frame of poles covered so thickly with branches of fragrant -spruce and balsam that it presented the appearance of a green mound -rising above the surrounding snow. Its walls were so thick as to be -almost wind-proof, and in the middle of its earthen floor was a small -circle of stones that formed a rude fireplace. In this only the dryest -of wood was burned, and the little smoke that resulted escaped through -an aperture left in the roof. On two sides were elastic beds of spruce -boughs covered deep with flat hemlock branches and balsam tips. The -very air of the place was a tonic, and the escaped captive, fresh from -the foulness of his prison, drew in eager breaths of its life-giving -sweetness as he sank<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_173" id="Page_173">[Pg 173]</a></span> wearily, but happily, down on the nearest pile of -boughs.</p> - -<p>As he lay there gazing about the rude shelter with an air of perfect -content he uttered frequent exclamations of amazement, for Tasquanto -was drawing from various hiding-places an array of treasures such as -no Indian of Nahma's acquaintance had ever before possessed: a copper -kettle, a steel hatchet, two knives, a blanket, several glass bottles, -and a fragment of mirror. Then, with conscious pride, but also with -evident trepidation, he produced the most wonderful trophy of all, a -rusty musket, one of the awful thunder-sticks that rendered the white -man all-powerful.</p> - -<p>During the night of the great storm the entire garrison of Quebec -had gathered for warmth in the hall of the commandant's house, and -Tasquanto had taken advantage of this to make a foray into the deserted -barracks with the above result. He had brought away the musket with -fear and trembling, dreading lest it might explode and kill him at any -moment. Even now he handled it cautiously, while Nahma could not for -some time be persuaded to touch it. So it<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_174" id="Page_174">[Pg 174]</a></span> was laid carefully down, and -he was permitted to feast his eyes on the marvel while Tasquanto busied -himself in preparing a feast of more substantial character.</p> - -<p>He had been so fortunate as to discover the winter den of a bear, which -he had also succeeded in killing, so that now he could offer his guest -not only the warmth of a shaggy robe but an abundance of meat. Instead -of half-burning and half-cooking a chunk of this on the coals, as was -the custom of his people, he displayed a rudiment of civilization by -cutting it up into small bits and stewing them in his copper kettle.</p> - -<p>After the youths had eaten heartily of this meal, which, simple as it -was, proved more satisfactory to Nahma than the very best of those -given him in Quebec, they spent several hours in discussing their -plans for the future and in examining Tasquanto's treasures. Having -overcome his awe of the thunder-stick sufficiently to take it in his -hands, Nahma became anxious to test its powers. He had seen Champlain -discharge his musket, and knew that it was<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_175" id="Page_175">[Pg 175]</a></span> done through the agency of -a lighted slow-match applied to the priming-pan. His knowledge of the -firing of a gun was thus far in advance of Tasquanto's, who, having -never witnessed the operation at close range, had no idea of how it was -accomplished. But he was quite willing to learn, and so it was agreed -that on the following morning Nahma should give the owner of the musket -his first lesson in its use.</p> - -<p>Both of them were so excited over the prospect of experimenting for -their own benefit with the deadly thunder of the white man that they -lay awake most of the night discussing their proposed adventure; and, -as a consequence, slept much later than they had intended on the -following morning. The day was well advanced, therefore, when the two -lads, after preparing and eating another hearty meal, stepped outside -to test their newly acquired weapon. It was carried by Nahma, who, -nervous with excitement, still presented a bold front, while, under his -direction, Tasquanto fetched a blazing brand from the fire.</p> - -<p>Resting the barrel of his piece across the trunk of a prostrate tree -and holding its stock<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_176" id="Page_176">[Pg 176]</a></span> at arm's length, Nahma bade his companion apply -fire to the pan. With much trepidation and a strong desire to clap -both hands to his ears, Tasquanto valiantly did as he was bidden, but -without result. Again and again did he apply the glowing coal, but -still the gun refused to obey the wishes of its inexperienced owners.</p> - -<p>"It will only speak and deal out its death-medicine at the command of -white men," said Tasquanto, disconsolately.</p> - -<p>"Not so," replied Nahma, "for once I saw it obey the will of a Huron -warrior. But I think I know what is needed. It must be turned over so -that the flame may rise to it. Also in this weather the thunder-stick -is so cold that it will take much fire to warm it into action. Make, -therefore, a hot blaze, and I am assured that something will happen."</p> - -<p>So Nahma turned the gun, and, forgetting to remain at arm's length, -bent anxiously over the refractory piece, while Tasquanto built a -regular fire beneath it. Of a sudden the musket went off with a -tremendous report that roused the woodland echoes for miles. Also it -sprang<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_177" id="Page_177">[Pg 177]</a></span> savagely backward, bowling over both Nahma and Tasquanto as -though they had been ninepins. But the most astounding result of the -discharge was a series of shrieks and yells that resounded through the -forest as though it were peopled by a pack of demons. At the same time -a number of leaping figures dashed from an extensive thicket at which -the gun had been inadvertently pointed and fled as though for their -lives. Something had assuredly happened.</p> - -<p>As our bewildered lads cautiously lifted their heads to learn the -extent of the damage done by the fearful force they had so recklessly -let loose, each was thankful to see that the other was still alive. -Next they glanced at the musket. It lay half buried in the snow, -looking as innocent and harmless as a stick of wood; but they knew -of what terrible things it was capable, and would hereafter be very -careful how they allowed it to come into contact with fire. They were -convinced that in some unexplained manner it could absorb flame until -it had accumulated a certain quantity and could then eject this with -deadly effect. </p> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_178" id="Page_178">[Pg 178]</a></span></p> - -<p>Being reassured concerning their own condition and the present -harmlessness of the musket, they next bethought themselves of the -dreadful cries that had seemed to mingle with the report, and they -agreed that these must have been uttered by the Okis, or spirits of -the forest, in protest against such a rude disturbance of its winter -quiet. As they stiffly picked themselves up, Nahma declared his -intention of visiting the thicket towards which the thunder-stick had -been pointed, to see whether he could discover where its lightnings had -struck. Tasquanto tried to dissuade him, declaring that the place must -be the abode of Okis; but to this Nahma answered that if so they were -certainly frightened away for the present, which would therefore be the -best time to visit their haunts.</p> - -<p>So the two cautiously made their way in that direction, and had not -gone more than fifty paces when they came upon a sight almost as -startling as had been the discharge of the musket. It was the dead -body of a Huron warrior not yet cold. His life's blood still trickled -from a jagged wound in the breast and crimsoned the snow on which he<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_179" id="Page_179">[Pg 179]</a></span> -had fallen. On all sides of him were other signs that told as plainly -as spoken words how narrowly our lads had escaped falling into the -hands of a merciless foe. There were marks of a cautious approach -along the trail they themselves had made the day before, of the halt -for observation when the intended victims were discovered, and of the -panic-stricken flight that followed the unexpected musket-fire by which -one of their number had been so suddenly killed.</p> - -<p>"The thunder-stick is indeed a god," remarked Nahma. "It can discover -and kill the enemies of those to whom it is friendly even before they -have knowledge of approaching danger."</p> - -<p>"Yes," replied Tasquanto, as he coolly scalped the dead Huron; "with -it to fight on our side we are become as sagamores, terrible and -all-powerful. I will take it to my own people, and when it shall lead -them in battle who will be able to stand before them? Even the white -men, whom many still think to be gods, are now no stronger than we. Oh, -my friend! let us shout for joy, since in all the world there is no man -more powerful than are Massasoit and Tasquanto, his brother." </p> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_180" id="Page_180">[Pg 180]</a></span></p> - -<p>When the exultant young warriors returned to camp, bearing with them -the trophies of their exploit, they also carried, very reverently, -the weapon which they termed a "thunder-god," and which had rendered -them such notable service. Then, while Nahma set to work on a pair -of snow-shoes, Tasquanto, who had seen the French soldiers oil and -burnish their guns, coated his with bear's grease, removed its -smoke-stains, and rubbed its barrel until it shone. When he had done -for it everything that his limited knowledge prescribed, he placed -it in a corner where they could constantly admire it, and began the -construction of a rude toboggan of bark.</p> - -<p>By the time this was completed Nahma's snow-shoes were also ready -for service, and the fugitives were prepared to start on their long -southward journey. For a beginning of this they made their way slowly -up to the head-waters of the Chaudière, crossed a rugged divide to -those of the Penobscot, and there established a permanent camp. From -this they set lines of traps that yielded a rich reward in the way of -pelts, and before spring opened they got out the frame of a<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_181" id="Page_181">[Pg 181]</a></span> canoe. As -soon as sap began to run in the birch-trees they secured enough bark to -cover it, and by the time the river opened they were prepared to float -with its current to the country of Tasquanto's people.</p> - -<p>Their voyage down the swift-rushing river was filled with adventures -and with hair-breadth escapes. Not only were they in almost constant -danger from foaming rapids and roaring waterfalls, but only unceasing -vigilance and an occasional display of their musket saved them from -death or capture by the hostile tribes through whose territory they -passed.</p> - -<p>At length they carried around the last cataract and entered upon the -long, broad reaches by which the river flowed in dignified majesty to -the sea. This was Tasquanto's country, and now they might watch for the -villages in which he would be assured a friendly welcome.</p> - -<p>Finally one was sighted, and Nahma proposed that, after the custom -of white men on returning from victorious expeditions, they should -discharge their thunder-stick. Nothing loath to add to his own -importance by such an announcement of<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_182" id="Page_182">[Pg 182]</a></span> their coming, Tasquanto promptly -assented to this proposition. So they landed a few hundred yards above -the village and made preparations for the second discharge of their -formidable weapon.</p> - -<hr /> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_183" id="Page_183">[Pg 183]</a></span></p> - -<h2><span>CHAPTER XVIII</span> <span class="smaller">KIDNAPPED</span></h2> - -<p>Being by this time, as they fondly imagined, thoroughly acquainted -with the white man's thunder-stick and with all details of the process -necessary to render it effective, our young Indians were determined -to leave undone nothing that might contribute to the complete success -of their proposed salute. To begin with, the musket must be pointed -away from the village, and they themselves must keep at a respectful -distance while it was accumulating its fiery energy. Also, to produce -an extraordinary volume of sound, the flame by which the thunder-stick -was fed must be big and hot. They knew this, because on the occasion of -their previous experiment they had, with the aid of a flame, produced -a much louder noise than that made by the white man's slow-matches. -Consequently they argued that the greater the flame the louder the -report.</p> - -<p>At the same time they were willing to <span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_184" id="Page_184">[Pg 184]</a></span>acknowledge that slow-matches -were excellent things to have under certain conditions, when, for -instance, one was so closely beset that he wished to fire with great -rapidity, even as many as two or three shots in the course of an hour. -So they were determined to obtain one at the very first opportunity, -and imagined that thus provided their shooting equipment would be -complete.</p> - -<p>But a blaze would be much better for their present purpose, and they -would take care that it was big enough to produce an astonishing -result. So carefully did they make their preparations that while -Tasquanto collected dry wood for the fire, Nahma cut a couple of forked -sticks on which to rest the musket and drove them solidly into the -ground. To these he lashed the gun until it resembled a victim about -to be burned at the stake. He did not, of course, forget to place it -upside down, so that its firing-pan might receive full benefit of the -upleaping flames. Then wood was piled beneath it until it really looked -as though they were intent upon burning the gun instead of being merely -desirous of discharging it. </p> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_185" id="Page_185">[Pg 185]</a></span></p> - -<p>While they were making these preparations several of the villagers, -noticing the presence of strangers, came out to discover their -business. To these Tasquanto made the peace sign, and at the same time -warned them not to come too close. So they halted and watched with -curiosity the mysterious proceedings of the strangers.</p> - -<p>At length all was in readiness, and Tasquanto, as principal owner -of the thunder-stick, claimed the privilege of setting fire to the -inflammable structure he had reared beneath it. As the brisk blaze shot -upward he ran back and joined Nahma at a safe distance. On the opposite -side were the village Indians, filled with uneasy expectancy mingled -with awe; for they imagined they were witnessing some impressive -religious ceremony.</p> - -<p>The flames mounted higher and higher until they completely enveloped -the devoted musket, and Tasquanto, so excited as to be unconscious -of the act, clapped his hands to his ears to deaden the sound of the -thunderous report that he momentarily expected. But it did not come. -The wooden stock of the gun began to smoke, and then burst into a -blaze. Being very dry and also<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_186" id="Page_186">[Pg 186]</a></span> saturated with oil, it was speedily -consumed. At the same time the lashings burned through, and the red-hot -barrel, already bent out of shape, fell into the glowing coals.</p> - -<p>As though drawn by an irresistible fascination, Tasquanto, with hands -still held to his ears, had moved nearer step by step, gazing with -incredulous eyes at this destruction of the thing he had regarded as a -god, loud-voiced and invincible. The puzzled spectators on the other -side also cautiously approached closer.</p> - -<p>Suddenly Tasquanto, seeming to awake as from a dream, started down the -hill-side towards the canoe, and Nahma followed him. Both knew why they -fled. For some unexplained reason their expected triumph had resulted -in a dismal failure. This had laid them open to the ridicule that -an Indian finds especially hard to bear, and they had no wish to be -questioned concerning what had just taken place.</p> - -<p>The spectators of their recent remarkable performance, curious to -see what they would do next, followed them so closely that, in order -to escape, our lads were forced to run. Gaining their<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_187" id="Page_187">[Pg 187]</a></span> canoe, they -shoved it off and leaped in as the foremost of their pursuers reached -the water's edge. Without heeding the many invitations to return that -quickly became threatening commands, Nahma and Tasquanto plied their -paddles with such diligence that they were quickly beyond arrow range; -and, speeding past the village without a pause, they were soon lost -to sight of its puzzled inhabitants. Not until they were some miles -farther down the river was a word exchanged between the young men. -Then, as Nahma drew in his paddle and paused for breath, he remarked,—</p> - -<p>"The thunder-stick of the white man is bad medicine for bow-and-arrow -people."</p> - -<p>"Yes," replied Tasquanto, mournfully, "it seems that we have much to -learn."</p> - -<p>While in camp that night discussing the humiliating events of the day -they were joined by a solitary hunter who was on his way up the river. -After a guarded interchange of questions and answers, during which -neither party learned anything definite concerning the other, the -stranger told them of certain white men who were trading<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_188" id="Page_188">[Pg 188]</a></span> at the mouth -of the Penobscot, and advised them to carry their furs to that market.</p> - -<p>"Are they Française?" asked Nahma, who was determined never again to -fall within the power of those who had so cruelly imprisoned him.</p> - -<p>"No," was the reply, "they are of a people who call themselves -'Yengeese' and who make war on the white-coats."</p> - -<p>"Have they thunder-sticks?" asked Tasquanto.</p> - -<p>"In plenty."</p> - -<p>"Then let us go to them. If we accomplish nothing else we may learn the -white man's secret, and so shall our shame be wiped out."</p> - -<p>On the following day, therefore, a few hours carried our lads to where -the river broadened into a bay dotted with islands. As their little -craft was lifted on the first great swells that came rolling in from -the open sea, Nahma uttered an exclamation and pointed eagerly.</p> - -<p>"Look!" he cried. "What is it? Was ever such a thing seen in the world -before?"</p> - -<p>Tasquanto glanced in the direction indicated and laughed. Truly, the -sight was remarkable, and one still rare to those waters; but he had<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_189" id="Page_189">[Pg 189]</a></span> -already seen one so similar in the St. Lawrence that he could now speak -with the authority of superior knowledge.</p> - -<p>"It is the winged canoe of the white man," he said. "In it he comes up -out of the great salt waters and after a little flies back again to his -own place. Knew you not that his whiteness is caused by the washing of -the waters in which he lives?"</p> - -<p>"No," replied Nahma, doubtfully. "Nor did I know that any canoe could -be so vast. It even has trees growing from it."</p> - -<p>"Yes," admitted the other, to whom this phenomenon was also a puzzle. -"But they be not trees that bear fruit, nor even leaves, though they -have branches and vines. On them the canoe spreads its wings, which are -white like the pinions of wembezee" (the swan).</p> - -<p>"Let us go closer that we may see these things," said Nahma, to whom -the appearance of that little English trading-ship was as wonderful as -had been his first view of Quebec.</p> - -<p>So they approached slowly and cautiously, feasting their eyes on the -marvel as they went,<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_190" id="Page_190">[Pg 190]</a></span> and directing each other's attention to a myriad -of details. Finally they were within hailing distance, and a man -standing on the ship's towering poop-deck beckoned for them to come on -board.</p> - -<p>Tasquanto, who knew the etiquette of such occasions, held up a -beaver-skin, as much as to say "Will you trade?"</p> - -<p>For reply the white man displayed some trinkets that glittered in the -sunlight, thereby intimating his willingness to transact business. At -the same time he turned to one who stood close at hand and said,—</p> - -<p>"They be two young bucks, without old men, women, or children. Nor is -there another native in sight. It is therefore the best chance by far -that has offered for filling Sir Ferdinando's order. 'Twenty pounds -will I give thee, Dermer, for a native youth of intelligence delivered -here at Plymouth in good condition.' Those were his very words, and it -will be well to have two; for if one dies on the passage, as the cattle -are so apt to do, then will the other make good the loss. If both -survive, so much the better, since we can readily dispose of the extra -one. We must <span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_191" id="Page_191">[Pg 191]</a></span>entice them on board, therefore, and the instant they -set foot on deck do thou see to it that they are secured. Be careful, -however, that they suffer no injury, for I would get them across in -good condition if possible."</p> - -<p>"Aye, aye, sir," answered the other, who was mate of the ship. "If you -can toll 'em on board I'll handle them as they were unweaned lambs. -I'll warrant you they won't escape if once I get a grip on them, -slippery devils though they be."</p> - -<p>When the canoe ran alongside the ship a few trinkets were tossed into -it as presents and in token of good-will. Then a ladder of rope was -lowered, and by signs our lads were invited to come on board.</p> - -<p>They looked at each other doubtfully. "Is it safe to trust these white -men?" asked Nahma.</p> - -<p>"To discover the secret of the thunder-sticks, and perhaps to obtain -one in exchange for our furs, is worth a risk," replied Tasquanto. As -he spoke he glanced longingly up to where the ship's captain, with a -leer on his face that passed for a reassuring smile, tempted them by a -lavish display of trade goods. </p> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_192" id="Page_192">[Pg 192]</a></span></p> - -<p>"Truly, it would be worth much," hesitated Nahma. "At the same time, -having once escaped from a prison, I have no desire to see the inside -of another."</p> - -<p>"Then stay thou here while I go," said Tasquanto, whose desire to wipe -out his recent humiliation was so great as to overcome his prudence. -"The secret of the thunder-stick I must have even though it cost me my -life."</p> - -<p>"Does my brother think so meanly of me as to believe that I would let -him face a danger alone while I remained in safety?" inquired Nahma, -reproachfully. "Let him go and I will follow close at his heels; for -whatever happens to one of us must happen to both."</p> - -<p>So the canoe was made fast, the bundle of furs was attached to a line -let down for it, and Tasquanto began to climb the swaying ladder while -Nahma steadied it from below. As the former disappeared over the ship's -side the son of Longfeather followed swiftly after him. Topping the -high bulwarks, he glanced anxiously down in search of his comrade, but -Tasquanto was not to be seen. A suspicion of foul play<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_193" id="Page_193">[Pg 193]</a></span> darted into his -mind, but too late for him to act upon it, for at the same instant he -was seized by two pair of brawny hands and dragged inboard.</p> - -<p>Half an hour later the ship under full canvas was speeding merrily -down the bay with her jubilant crew bawling out the chorus of a -homeward-bound chantey.</p> - -<hr /> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_194" id="Page_194">[Pg 194]</a></span></p> - -<h2><span>CHAPTER XIX</span> <span class="smaller">SOLD AS A SLAVE</span></h2> - -<p>The distress and terror of our poor lads when they found themselves -flung into the horrible darkness of the ship's hold with its hatch -closed above them would have been pitiful had there been any witnesses. -But there was none, and for many weary hours they seemed to have been -imprisoned in mere wantonness only to be forgotten as soon as the -treacherous act had been accomplished. Their sole comfort was that -they were together; for, on being dropped into the hold, Nahma found -Tasquanto, stunned by the magnitude of his misfortune, awaiting him.</p> - -<p>For a time the two remained speechless, only holding to each other, -listening, and fearfully awaiting what next might happen. Although they -could see nothing there was much to hear, for the anchor was being hove -up, sails loosed and sheeted home, canvas was slatting, yards<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_195" id="Page_195">[Pg 195]</a></span> were -creaking, and all to the accompaniment of much hoarse shouting and a -continual tramping of heavy feet. But none of these sounds conveyed -to our captives the slightest idea of what was taking place. After a -while the ship began to heel until they believed her to be capsizing, -and that their last hour had come. Also they heard a sound of rushing -waters. A little later both were so utterly prostrated by sea-sickness -that whatever might happen no longer concerned them.</p> - -<p>In this wretched plight they lay for what seemed like many days, but in -reality only until the middle of the next forenoon, when, of a sudden, -the hatch above them was removed and they were blinded by the flood -of light that followed. Then men came to them and they were driven on -deck, where, dazed and weak with illness, they staggered from side to -side with the motion of the ship. Their pitiable appearance was greeted -by shouts of coarse mirth from the crew, who found in it a vastly -entertaining spectacle.</p> - -<p>The captives were offered food, but refused it with loathing, though -they drank eagerly from a<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_196" id="Page_196">[Pg 196]</a></span> bucket of water placed beside them as -they sat on deck at the foremast's foot. After a while Nahma became -sufficiently revived by the fresh air to gaze about him with somewhat -of interest in his strange surroundings. Everything was marvellous and -incomprehensible. Even the bearded sailors in petticoats and pigtails, -which latter he took to be scalp-locks, were entirely different from -the French, who, until now, were the only white men he had known. Nor -could he comprehend a word of the barbarous language in which they -conversed. When he was tired of looking at them he began to wonder in -which direction lay the land, and to turn over in his mind a plan for -making a quick rush to the ship's side, leaping overboard, and swimming -to shore.</p> - -<p>Before broaching this scheme to his comrade Nahma decided to get his -bearings. So he gained his feet and mounted a scuttle-butt, by which -his eyes were lifted above the level of the high bulwarks. To his -consternation there was no land in sight. Not so much as a tree nor a -blue hill-top could he discover in any direction.<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_197" id="Page_197">[Pg 197]</a></span> His unaccustomed -eyes could not even distinguish the line of the horizon dividing a gray -sky from the immensity of gray waters that stretched away on all sides. -The bewildering sight filled him with a dread greater than any he had -ever known, and he slipped back to his place beside Tasquanto, utterly -hopeless.</p> - -<p>"Whether we be going up or down I know not," he said to the latter; -"but certain it is that we now float among the clouds, with no prospect -of ever again returning to the earth on which dwell people after our -own kind. Already are we become Okis."</p> - -<p>"Then is it a most unhappy condition," answered Tasquanto, "and the -medicine-men are liars."</p> - -<p>After a few hours on deck our lads were again driven into the darkness -and foulness of the hold; but on every pleasant day thereafter for -weeks was the process of bringing them on deck for an airing repeated. -In times of storm they were kept below, with their sufferings -immeasurably increased by sickness, by the violent pitching of the -ship, by lack of food and water, and by<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_198" id="Page_198">[Pg 198]</a></span> terrors of the creakings and -groanings that filled the surrounding blackness.</p> - -<p>For more than a month did they thus suffer, hopeless of ever again -sighting land or of any relief from their unhappy situation. Then, to -Nahma at least, came the worst of all. One day, while they were on -deck, he suddenly lifted his head and sniffed the air.</p> - -<p>"It is a breath of earth," he whispered, as though fearful of uttering -the glad news aloud. "I can smell it. Oh, my brother! to once more gain -the freedom of a forest would be a happiness exceeding any other. Let -us be ready on the morrow when we are again brought into the light. It -may be that we shall be near enough to swim to the land. Once within -cover of the forest we would never again look upon the face of a white -man."</p> - -<p>About this time they were sent below, but that faint scent of land not -yet distinguished by any other on the ship had infused them with a new -hope, and for hours they talked of what might be done on the morrow.</p> - -<p>In the mean time their ship was so near the<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_199" id="Page_199">[Pg 199]</a></span> English coast that -twenty-four hours later she lay at anchor in the harbor of Plymouth and -her small boat was ready to go ashore.</p> - -<p>"Fetch me the heathen desired by Sir Ferdinando," ordered Captain -Dermer.</p> - -<p>"Which one, sir?"</p> - -<p>"Either will do. Call them up and take the first that shows a head. -Drive the other back, and keep him below until my return."</p> - -<p>"Aye, aye, sir."</p> - -<p>So the hatch was partially removed, and the signal for which our lads -had waited so impatiently was given. Tasquanto was first to answer it -and gain the deck. Nahma followed closely, but was met by a blow that -tumbled him back into the hold. Then the hatch was replaced, and he was -once more confronted by the horrors of solitary confinement.</p> - -<p>For a time he continued to hope that he would be allowed on deck, or -that his comrade would be restored to him; but, as the weary hours -dragged slowly by without either of these things happening, these hopes -grew fainter and fainter until finally they vanished. </p> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_200" id="Page_200">[Pg 200]</a></span></p> - -<p>When food and water were brought to him, he drank of the latter but -refused to eat, although the food was fresh meat, the first he had seen -since the dreadful day when he had been enticed aboard the ship. It was -another proof that they were once more near land. Perhaps even now the -forest for which he longed was close at hand, and perhaps people of his -own race were come off to trade. Perhaps Tasquanto, who had picked up -a number of English words, was acting as interpreter for them. In that -case he would doubtless find a chance for escape, though even if he -should, Nahma was certain that he would not make use of it. Were they -not brothers, sworn to share each other's fortunes, good or ill, to the -end? No! Tasquanto would never desert him; but sooner or later, if he -were still alive, would come again to him. Of this our lad was certain.</p> - -<p>After a while the lonely prisoner fell asleep, and when he next awoke -the ship was again in motion. He felt about for his companion, but -could not find him; he called aloud, but got no answer. Then he knew -that he was indeed alone<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_201" id="Page_201">[Pg 201]</a></span> in the world and that something terrible must -have happened to Tasquanto. When next he was allowed on deck he looked -eagerly for his friend, and, seeing nothing of him, relapsed into a -condition of apathy. He no longer cared what happened, and refused to -eat the food offered him.</p> - -<p>"Won't eat, eh?" growled Captain Dermer, on learning of this state of -affairs. "We'll see about that."</p> - -<p>The grizzled old mariner's method of seeing about things was so -effective that the refractory young Indian shortly found himself -pinned to the deck by two sailors. A third pinched his nose, and when -he opened his mouth for breath poured in hot soup that the victim was -obliged to swallow to keep from choking. So he was fed by force, and -his strength was sustained until the ship once more came to anchor.</p> - -<p>As usual, Nahma was confined below when this happened, and when he was -next brought on deck he was given no time to look about him before -being seized, stripped of the foul garments that he had worn during -the voyage, and scrubbed<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_202" id="Page_202">[Pg 202]</a></span> from head to foot, roughly but thoroughly. -Then he was provided with a new suit of buckskin that had been acquired -by trade from the Abenakis. He was also given colors and a mirror and -ordered to paint his face. Showing symptoms of disobedience, he was -made to understand that one of the crew would do it for him; and, -rather than be thus disfigured, he reluctantly complied. After he had -satisfactorily decorated himself, greatly to the amusement of the crew, -he was left to his own devices and allowed to wander about the deck as -he pleased.</p> - -<p>Gaining a position where he could see beyond the ship's side, he was -as amazed and bewildered as though he had been transported to another -planet, for the vessel had ascended the Thames, and his outlook was -upon London.</p> - -<p>Not a tree was to be seen, not a green thing, only houses, until it -seemed as though the whole world must be covered with them. Even the -river disappeared beneath houses built in a double row on a bridge that -spanned it a short distance away. The ship was moored beside a great -dingy building, from and into which men came and went as<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_203" id="Page_203">[Pg 203]</a></span> thickly as -bees swarming about a hollow tree in his native woods.</p> - -<p>Although no such clouds of smoke hung above London then as infold it -to-day, there was enough to impress our young savage with the belief -that a forest fire must be raging just beyond the buildings that -obstructed his view. This belief was strengthened by the ceaseless roar -of the city, that, to him, held the same elements of terror as the -awful voice of a wide-spread conflagration.</p> - -<p>If Tasquanto were only with him that they might discuss these things. -But, alas! he was alone, as unfitted for a life-struggle amid those -heretofore undreamed-of surroundings as a newborn babe, and, like it, -unprovided with a language understandable by those about him. Set down -in the heart of a primeval forest he would have been perfectly at home; -but face to face with this hideous wilderness of human construction he -was appalled at his own insignificance and utter helplessness.</p> - -<p>As he turned away terror-stricken he noticed that several persons -gathered about Captain Dermer were regarding him curiously. One<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_204" id="Page_204">[Pg 204]</a></span> of -them, a young man of about Nahma's own age, apparently touched by the -hopeless expression on our lad's painted face, stepped towards him with -outstretched hand.</p> - -<p>"Winslow," he said, pointing to himself.</p> - -<p>"Massasoit," answered the other, promptly, and indicating his own -person.</p> - -<p>Although he could not understand the newcomer's words he appreciated -the hearty grip of his hand, and, gazing into his honest eyes, felt -that here was one who might become a friend.</p> - -<p>"What are you going to do with him?" inquired Winslow, stepping back -beside Captain Dermer.</p> - -<p>"Let him go when he can pay his passage-money, or turn him over to the -first person who will pay it for him," was the reply.</p> - -<p>"What is the sum?"</p> - -<p>"Twenty pounds, no more nor less."</p> - -<p>"I have not that amount with me, but if you will give me a day or two I -think I can get it. Will you keep him until I come again?"</p> - -<p>"Unless some other turns up in the mean time equally desirous of -accommodating him." </p> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_205" id="Page_205">[Pg 205]</a></span></p> - -<p>"Captain, I vill pay the money on the spot," exclaimed a voice, -and wheeling about, Winslow saw a man of sporty aspect arrayed in -tawdry imitation of a gentleman, and of a decidedly Hebraic cast of -countenance. He was extending a handful of gold pieces, which Captain -Dermer took and counted.</p> - -<p>"It is a trade," he said. "Take him and may luck go with you."</p> - -<p>Thus was sold, in the city of London, a free-born native American; and -he was but one of many New World people who shared a similar fate both -before and afterwards.</p> - -<hr /> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_206" id="Page_206">[Pg 206]</a></span></p> - -<h2><span>CHAPTER XX</span> <span class="smaller">ONE FRIENDLY FACE</span></h2> - -<p>The man who on pretence of paying Nahma's passage-money had in reality -bought him was a well-known London fur-dealer, who had visited the -ship to appraise her cargo. The young fellow who had extended to our -forlorn lad the hand of friendship, and who, but for lack of ready -means, would have redeemed him from a threatened slavery, was a Mr. -Edward Winslow. He was the youngest son of a well-to-do Devon family, -who had taken a degree at Oxford and was now reading law in the Temple. -He was intensely interested in America and everything pertaining to it. -Thus, on hearing that a ship just arrived from the New World was in the -Thames, he hastened to board her, that he might converse with those who -had so recently trod the shores he longed to visit. Nahma was the first -American he had ever seen, and he regarded him with a lively curiosity -that was changed to pity at sight<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_207" id="Page_207">[Pg 207]</a></span> of his hopeless face. Now he turned -fiercely on the Jew who by payment of a paltry sum of money had become -master of the young stranger's fate.</p> - -<p>"What do you intend to do with him?" he asked.</p> - -<p>"Vat vould you have done mit him yourself had your purse been as full -as your stomach?" asked the other, impudently.</p> - -<p>"I would have found for him a home in which he might be taught -Christianity and civilization, and then I would have taken the first -opportunity for sending him back to his own land."</p> - -<p>"Mayhap those be the very things I also vould do by the young heathen; -who knows?" replied the furrier, with a leer. "At any rate, I have -charge of him now, and vill take him at once to my happy home. You may -set him ashore for me, captain."</p> - -<p>"Not I," responded Captain Dermer. "I have no longer aught to do with -him. Take him ashore yourself."</p> - -<p>Thus confronted with his new responsibility, the man approached Nahma -and, seizing him roughly by an arm, said, "Come mit me, heathen." </p> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_208" id="Page_208">[Pg 208]</a></span></p> - -<p>With a quick motion the young Indian wrenched himself free and faced -his new master with so fierce a look that the latter involuntarily -quailed beneath it and stepped back.</p> - -<p>"Ah!" he snarled, "that's your game, is it? Ve'll see who comes out -best."</p> - -<p>With this he called to some men of his employ who were hoisting out -bales of furs and bade them come to him, bringing a stout cord.</p> - -<p>"Hold!" cried Winslow, stepping beside the young Indian. "See you not -that he is desperate, and that if you try to bind him there will be -bloodshed? He will surely kill you, if he dies for it the next moment. -Leave him to me and I will guarantee to take him where you may desire, -only I give you warning to treat him decently and without violence."</p> - -<p>Thus saying the speaker held out his hand to Nahma, and by signs -intimated that he was to accompany him.</p> - -<p>By instinct the young American had recognized this youth as a friend, -and now he unhesitatingly left the ship in his company.</p> - -<p>As a mob would have been attracted by the<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_209" id="Page_209">[Pg 209]</a></span> appearance of an American -Indian in the crowded streets, a covered cart belonging to the furrier -was procured, and in it our lad was driven to a rear entrance of his -master's shop, which fronted on a fashionable thoroughfare, while the -others reached the same place on foot.</p> - -<p>During that bewildering ride Nahma sat with stolid face but with keen -eyes, taking in all the marvellous details of his surroundings. Next to -the throngs of people hurrying to and fro along the narrow, crooked, -and ill-paved streets, the appearance of horses most impressed him, for -never had he seen beasts at once so large and so completely under the -control of man.</p> - -<p>No word passed between Winslow and the furrier until their destination -was reached. Then the latter asked, sneeringly,—</p> - -<p>"Now, me lud, vat vill your 'ighness do next?"</p> - -<p>"I will go inside and see him disposed," replied the young man, calmly.</p> - -<p>"Oh, vell, come in and view the royal apartments," said the other, -willing to have Winslow continue his responsibility until the new -acquisition was safely housed. </p> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_210" id="Page_210">[Pg 210]</a></span></p> - -<p>So the young Indian was taken from the cart and led into the shop, -causing a buzz of excitement among the few who saw him climbing a -narrow back stairway. He was finally guided to a small chamber directly -beneath the roof and lighted by a single window that could not be -opened. Had it not been for Winslow's reassuring presence, Nahma would -have refused to ascend those stairs, which, being the first he had ever -encountered, filled him with dismay.</p> - -<p>After Winslow had seen the stranger in whom he took so great an -interest thus safely placed for the present and the furrier had locked -the door on his captive, the two descended again to the shop.</p> - -<p>"What will you now do with him?" asked the former.</p> - -<p>"It may be I vill train him to my business and send him out to America -as a fur-buyer," answered the other. "Maybe I vill keep him as a -curiosity. I have not yet decided; but vatever I do is no concern of -yours."</p> - -<p>"Will you sell him to me?"</p> - -<p>"Maybe so ven I see your money." </p> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_211" id="Page_211">[Pg 211]</a></span></p> - -<p>With this Winslow was forced to be content, and he departed with the -hope of redeeming his newly made friend and of carrying out his vaguely -formed intentions concerning him. Although twenty pounds was not a -large sum, it would embarrass him to procure it, since his family, -though well-to-do, were not people of wealth, and he was living on a -monthly allowance so small as barely to support him in gentility.</p> - -<p>In the mean time Nahma, left to his own melancholy company, gazed from -his window over the roofs and chimney-pots of London, feeling that no -greater evils could possibly befall him, and yet wondering vaguely what -would happen next. Food was brought to him and water, but no change in -his situation took place until the following morning.</p> - -<p>Then his master appeared accompanied by a coarse-featured man of -evident strength, whom the furrier had engaged to be keeper of his -new treasure. By them the young Indian was taken down to the shop, -where a small platform had been prepared for him. It was covered and -surrounded with costly furs, and here Nahma was<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_212" id="Page_212">[Pg 212]</a></span> seated with a fur robe -draped across his shoulders. Close at hand stood his keeper to see that -he neither escaped nor did injury to any about him. With the tableau -arranged, a stout 'prentice lad took a stand just outside the street -entrance and cried in lusty tones the novel attraction to be seen -within.</p> - -<p>"Step this way, lords and ladies. Come all ye gentlefolk, attend the -reception of his Highness, a native American cannibal prince just -arrived from the New World. Look within! Look within! Under the sign of -the Ermine Royal sits he. Free of charge are all gentlefolk invited to -meet him. This way, lords and ladies. Look within!"</p> - -<p>To this novel reception none but the well-dressed and evidently -well-to-do were admitted, since the poor could not be expected to -purchase furs then any more than now. And there would have been no -room for them in the limited space of the dingy little shop even had -they been admitted, for ere long it was crowded with fashionable folk -eager to be entertained by a novelty, while their retainers filled the -street. The spectators stared at Nahma and listened with <span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_213" id="Page_213">[Pg 213]</a></span>credulous -ears to the marvellous tales told concerning him by the furrier, who, -clad in gorgeous raiment, acted the parts of host and showman. Also -many of them purchased furs, which was more to the purpose. Never had -the Ermine Royal done such a business, and never had its proprietor -greater reason to be satisfied with a venture.</p> - -<p>Amid all came Edward Winslow with his twenty pounds, which he proffered -to the Jew in return for Nahma's release. But the latter laughed him to -scorn.</p> - -<p>"For twenty pund did you think to get him, me lud? Nay, that was the -price I paid, as you vell know, and I must at least double my money. -Forty pund is my lowest offer, and fifty if he continues to attract -trade as at present. Speech mit him? I have no objection, only have a -care that you seek not to seduce him from my service, or a thing might -happen not to your liking."</p> - -<p>Keenly disappointed at this result of his undertaking, the young man -pushed his way through the crowd until he stood close to the platform, -when he called, softly,— </p> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_214" id="Page_214">[Pg 214]</a></span></p> - -<p>"Massasoit."</p> - -<p>Instantly a glad light flashed into the eyes of the dejected figure -thus set up for a show, and, turning eagerly in that direction, he -exclaimed,—</p> - -<p>"Winslow."</p> - -<p>Then the two friends clasped hands, and Winslow managed to convey the -information that he would come again on the morrow.</p> - -<p>He kept his promise; and, though he had not succeeded in securing the -money necessary to redeem the young Indian, his visit brought much -comfort. For many days thereafter he came regularly, often bringing -some little thing that he thought might give pleasure; and these daily -glimpses of a friendly face were the only rays of light penetrating the -unhappy darkness of Nahma's captivity. He was never allowed to leave -the building, and was only marched to and fro up and down those weary -stairs between the den in which he lived and the hated platform on -which he was exhibited to gaping customers.</p> - -<p>At the end of three weeks Winslow, having received his month's -allowance and so raised the necessary forty pounds, tendered it to the -fur-dealer <span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_215" id="Page_215">[Pg 215]</a></span>for the release of his slave, only to be told that the -price had again been doubled.</p> - -<p>Upon this the young man flew into a rage and there was an exchange of -bitter words, that ended in Winslow being told to mind his own affairs -and not attempt an interference with those that did not concern him. -As several 'prentice lads had gathered near during this quarrel and -stood eagerly awaiting their master's permission to pounce upon the -stranger, he realized the weakness of his position, and prudently ended -the affair by withdrawing from the scene. At the same time he was as -determined as ever to effect Nahma's deliverance, and that speedily.</p> - -<p>For this purpose he invited a number of the more reckless of his Temple -companions to a dinner, at which he told the story of Massasoit and -enlisted their sympathies in his behalf. Then he proposed a rescue, to -which they enthusiastically agreed.</p> - -<p>According to this plan they were to meet near the furrier's shop at -the busiest hour of the second day from then, each man wearing his -sword, and prepared to use it if necessary. There<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_216" id="Page_216">[Pg 216]</a></span> they were to mingle -with the sight-seers and resist any attempts at interference with the -movements of Winslow. The latter undertook to spirit the young Indian -out of the same rear entrance through which he had first been brought, -into an unfrequented alley, while one of his friends should for a -moment distract the attention of the keeper.</p> - -<p>To perfect the details of this scheme and provide a safe retreat for -him whom they proposed to rescue occupied two days, and then all was -in readiness. At this point the would-be rescuers were confronted -by an unforeseen and insurmountable obstacle. The young Indian had -disappeared. He was no longer an inmate of the furrier's shop, and no -one could or would give the slightest information concerning him.</p> - -<hr /> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_217" id="Page_217">[Pg 217]</a></span></p> - -<h2><span>CHAPTER XXI</span> <span class="smaller">A CHANGE OF MASTERS</span></h2> - -<p>For some days Nahma's master had been uneasy about him. Close -confinement, lack of exercise and fresh air, and a hopeless melancholy -were so telling upon the captive that his health was seriously -affected. He was thin and miserable, had no appetite, and suffered from -a hacking cough. These things troubled the fur-dealer, not because of -his humanity, for he had none, but because of a prospect of losing the -money he had invested in this bit of perishable property. He was also -alarmed by Winslow's interest in the young Indian, and feared the very -thing that the former had planned.</p> - -<p>Then, too, one of his gentleman customers had suggested that when the -fact of an American prince being in London came to the king's ears he -would probably order him to be brought to the palace. In that case, as -the furrier well knew, he would never be recompensed for his outlay, -since<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_218" id="Page_218">[Pg 218]</a></span> King James was not given to spending unnecessary money, and -he might even be called to account for holding a royal personage in -captivity. He wished now that he had not described his Indian as a -prince; and, all things considered, decided that the sooner he got rid -of him the better off he would be.</p> - -<p>It happened that while he was in this frame of mind he was visited -by a travelling mountebank, whose business was to exhibit freaks and -curiosities of whatsoever kind he could obtain, at country fairs. -Having heard of the fur-dealer's Indian, he went to see him, and was so -impressed with his value as an attraction that he promptly offered ten -pounds for him.</p> - -<p>"Already haf I refused forty," replied the furrier.</p> - -<p>"It was doubtless offered when he was in condition. Now, as any one may -see, he is on the verge of a quick decline and is like to die on your -hands. It would be a risk to take him at any price, and it will cost a -pretty penny to restore him to health, without which he is of no more -value than a mangy dog." </p> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_219" id="Page_219">[Pg 219]</a></span></p> - -<p>"But I haf advanced twenty pund for his passage-money, and haf been at -the expense of his keep ever since."</p> - -<p>"A cost that has been repaid a thousand-fold by the advertisement he -has given your wares. But to insure you against loss, which I well know -a Jew hates worse than death itself, I will give twenty pounds for the -varlet, sick and scrawny though he be. What say you? Is it a bargain?"</p> - -<p>"Hand over the price and he is yours."</p> - -<p>Of course the subject of this barter was not consulted concerning it. -Nor did he know anything of the change about to come over his life -until darkness had fallen. Then, as he lay on his bed of musty straw, -dreaming of the free forest life that was once his, he was startled by -the entrance into his room of two men, one of whom bore a rush-light. -In him Nahma recognized his hated keeper, but the other was a stranger.</p> - -<p>"Come," said the former, gruffly; and, glad of any break in the deadly -monotony of his life, Nahma obediently followed him, while the other -brought up the rear. </p> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_220" id="Page_220">[Pg 220]</a></span></p> - -<p>Down-stairs they went and out into the darkness of the streets, where -each of the men grasped him by an arm as though fearful that he might -attempt an escape. The young Indian smiled bitterly as he realized -this, for nothing was further from his thought. In all that wilderness -of houses he had but one friend, and he knew no more where to look for -Winslow than he would if the latter were dead. To him all other white -men represented cruelty and injustice, therefore nothing was to be -gained by escaping from those who held him. He would only fall into -the clutches of others against whom he would be equally powerless. So -he went along quietly and with apparent willingness, somewhat to the -surprise of his new master.</p> - -<p>"I fail to note but that he goes readily enough," he remarked. -"Methought you said he was vicious and like to prove troublesome."</p> - -<p>"Oh, he's quiet enough now," replied the other, "but wait and see. -They're as treacherous, these Hammerican savages, as cats. Purr till -they see a good chance and then scratch. If they draw life's blood -they're all the more pleased.<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_221" id="Page_221">[Pg 221]</a></span> I knows 'em, for I've had experience, -and my word! but you've got to watch 'em every minute."</p> - -<p>It was by such representations that the keeper hoped to induce the -showman to continue him in his present easy position. Now he wished -that his charge would make some aggressive exhibition merely to -demonstrate the necessity for his own presence. He slyly pinched -the prisoner's arm until it was ready to bleed, with the hope of at -least causing him to cry out; but Nahma endured the pain with all the -stoicism of his race and gave no sign.</p> - -<p>Thus they proceeded through a weary labyrinth of foul streets, only -lighted at long intervals by flaring torches borne by retainers of -well-to-do pedestrians, until finally they turned into the yard of -a rambling tavern that stood on the outskirts of the town. It was a -famous resort for wagoners who transported goods to and from all parts -of the kingdom, and its court was now crowded with ponderous vehicles -and their lading.</p> - -<p>Here Nahma was thrust for safe-keeping into an outhouse, the air of -which was close and foul, and its door was barred behind him. To our -<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_222" id="Page_222">[Pg 222]</a></span>unhappy lad it seemed as if the whole remainder of his life was to be -marked only by a succession of imprisonments, each more dismal than -its predecessor. In Quebec he had had Tasquanto's companionship and -an open window. On shipboard he had been given the same comrade and a -daily outing. In the furrier's establishment he had had a window and an -occasional hand-clasp from Winslow; but here he was alone, in absolute -darkness, and gasping for a breath of fresh air.</p> - -<p>The wretched night finally came to an end, and with the first gray of -morning his new master appeared, bringing an armful of coarse clothing, -soiled and worn. Stripping Nahma of his buckskin suit, he compelled him -to don these ill-fitting garments, and then left him a platter of bones -for his breakfast.</p> - -<p>A little later they were on the road, and, to his amazement, Nahma -found himself leading a bear. It was a big brown bear, and its -whole head was enclosed in a stout muzzle; but, in spite of this, -our young Indian, who had never heard of a tame bear, felt anything -but comfortable at finding himself in such company unarmed. Besides -himself<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_223" id="Page_223">[Pg 223]</a></span> and the bear, the party was made up of the showman, a -cadaverous youth answering to the name of "Blink," who afterwards -proved to be a contortionist, and a heavily laden pack-horse. To -Nahma's relief, the big man who had acted as his keeper was no longer -of the company.</p> - -<p>For a time our lad was so taken up with his bear and the discomforts -of his unaccustomed clothing that he paid but slight attention to -his surroundings. Then, all of a sudden, he uttered a cry of amazed -delight, for they were entering a forest. No longer were houses to be -seen, no longer was the horrid din of the city to be heard. Once more -was he beneath green trees, with the songs of birds ringing in his ears -and the smell of the woods in his nostrils. He drew in long breaths -of the scented air, and a new light came into his eyes. Having found -a forest, might he not also hope to discover people of his own kind? -If there were forests in this strange land and bears, why should there -not also be Indians? At any rate, he would keep a sharp watch, and -if he should see any, how quickly he would take leave of his present -companions and join them! </p> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_224" id="Page_224">[Pg 224]</a></span></p> - -<p>That night they lay at an inn, where an iron shackle was locked about -one of Nahma's ankles, and, with the bear, he was chained up in a -stable. On the following day they reached a straggling country town in -which a fair was to be held and where they were to give an exhibition. -Here they pitched a tent. Nahma's suit of buckskin was restored to him, -and he was again made to paint his face.</p> - -<p>In this first exhibition he had nothing to do but stand and be stared -at by curious rustics, but after this he was taught and encouraged to -perform a number of acts in company with the bear. One of these was to -shoot, with bow and arrow, an apple, or some other small object, from -the animal's head. Then they would wrestle together, and finally a sort -of a dance was arranged for them, in which Blink, made up as a clown -for the occasion, also took part. Thus the show became so unique and -popular that its proprietor coined more money than any other on the -road.</p> - -<p>But with prosperity came an evil more terrible even than adversity; -for, with money to spend,<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_225" id="Page_225">[Pg 225]</a></span> the showman began to squander it in gambling -and drinking until it was a rare thing for him to draw a sober breath. -He became quarrelsome with his intimates and brutal to those in his -power. His poor bear was beaten and tortured to make it learn new -tricks until it became a snarling, morose beast, influenced only -by fear, and dangerous to all except the young Indian, who was its -fellow-sufferer. He, too, was abused, starved, beaten, and in all ways -maltreated for not learning faster and pouring more money into his -master's bottomless pockets.</p> - -<p>One day, while Nahma and the bear were wearily performing their antics -before a crowd of gaping yokels in the market-place of a small shire -town in the west, the youth's attention was drawn to a child who was -uttering shrill cries of pleasure. She was a dainty little thing with -flaxen hair and blue eyes, exquisitely dressed, and was in charge of a -maid. They had come from a coach that was drawn up before a shop near -by, and the throng had opened to make way for them until they stood in -the very front rank. </p> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_226" id="Page_226">[Pg 226]</a></span></p> - -<p>Suddenly the child, in an ecstasy of delight, pulled away from her -nurse and ran forward with the evident intention of caressing the bear -as though he had been a big dog. The brute was so tired, hungry, and -cross that Nahma had with difficulty kept him to his work. Now, with -a snarl and a fierce gleam in his small bloodshot eyes, he raised a -threatening paw as though to sweep away the little fluttering thing -that came running so confidently towards him.</p> - -<p>A great cry rose from the crowd. The maid, so terrified as to be -incapable of motion, screamed and covered her face with her hands; but -Nahma, darting forward, snatched the child from under the descending -paw. So narrow was the escape that his left arm was torn from shoulder -to elbow by the cruel claws, and he staggered beneath the blow.</p> - -<p>The showman, who had been passing his cap among the spectators, ran -to the bear and, beating him over the head with a stout cudgel, drove -him to his quarters in a near-by stable. Part of the populace cheered -Nahma, while others demanded the death of the bear, and amid all the<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_227" id="Page_227">[Pg 227]</a></span> -confusion came the mother of the little girl, frantic with terror. To -her our lad delivered the child, frightened but unharmed. Then, without -waiting to be rewarded, or even thanked, he ran to look after his -friend the bear.</p> - -<hr /> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_228" id="Page_228">[Pg 228]</a></span></p> - -<h2><span>CHAPTER XXII</span> <span class="smaller">NAHMA AND THE BEAR RUN AWAY</span></h2> - -<p>Nahma found the showman and Blink engaged in a violent dispute over -the bear. The former was insisting that Blink should escape, with -the animal, from the rear of the stable and lead it to a place of -concealment on the outskirts of the village, where he would join them -later. In the mean time he would divert the attention of the mob until -the escape could be made. Blink, who was not on friendly terms with the -bear, was refusing on the ground that, with the animal in its present -temper, his life would not be worth a moment's purchase.</p> - -<p>"Then let the heathen take him, and do you go along to see that they -do not give us the slip," exclaimed the man, as Nahma appeared and -a howl from the mob announced their approach. Their interest had -been distracted for a minute while they watched the lady with the -frightened<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_229" id="Page_229">[Pg 229]</a></span> child in her arms regain her coach, which was immediately -driven away. Now they were ready to settle with the bear, and turned -towards the stable in which he had taken refuge. As they drew near -the showman, who, though a brute, was no coward, appeared in its open -doorway and confronted them.</p> - -<p>"Good my masters," he cried, "what seek you?"</p> - -<p>"Thy bear!" roared a dozen voices. "Bring forth thy bear that we may -bait him. He is not fit to live, and must be slain."</p> - -<p>Again the showman attempted to speak, but his voice was drowned in the -bedlam of cries raised by the mob; and, losing control of his temper, -he shook his cudgel defiantly at them. Upon this a shower of stones was -hurled at him, and one of them striking him on the head, he staggered -and fell. At this the mob halted, and some even sneaked away, fearful -of consequences. The village barber, who was also its surgeon, bustled -forward to make an examination of the wounded man. He was conscious, -but in spite of, or possibly on account of, copious bloodletting,<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_230" id="Page_230">[Pg 230]</a></span> -which was the only remedy administered, he died a few hours later.</p> - -<p>So completely was public attention distracted by this tragic event, -that for a time no thought was given to the original cause of the -disturbance, and, finally, when search was made for the bear, he -was nowhere to be seen. Not until the following day was any trace -discovered of those who had been in the showman's company. Then the -one known as "Blink" was found on the edge of a wood, helplessly bound -and half dead from a night of cold and terror. He could only tell -that, having escaped with the bear and the heathen, the latter had -suddenly set upon him without warning or provocation and reduced him to -the condition in which he was discovered. What had become of them or -whither they had gone he knew not, nor did he care. He only hoped he -would never again set eyes on the savage monsters who were so unfit for -Christian company.</p> - -<p>In the mean time Nahma and his companions had found no difficulty in -leaving the village unnoticed, since all public attention was for the -moment drawn in the opposite direction. Thus<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_231" id="Page_231">[Pg 231]</a></span> they successfully gained -the woodland that had been appointed by the showman as a place of -rendezvous. Here the young American suddenly realized that only Blink -stood between him and the freedom for which he longed. Up to this time -he had been shackled at night and so closely watched by day that no -chance of escape had offered. Now one had come, and so quick was our -lad to take advantage of it that within a minute the unsuspecting Blink -was lying helplessly bound hand and foot with his own kerchief and a -sash that formed part of his professional costume. Thus was he left, -while Nahma and the bear, whom the former now regarded as his sole -friend in all the world, plunged into the forest depths and disappeared.</p> - -<p>The England of that long-ago date was a very different country from -the England of to-day, and its entire population hardly exceeded two -millions of souls. Its few cities were small, and connected by highways -so abominable that travellers frequently lost their way while trying -to follow them. Not more than one-quarter of the arable lands were -under cultivation, while the remainder was<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_232" id="Page_232">[Pg 232]</a></span> covered with dark forests -and great fens, marshes, and desolate moors across which one might -journey for a day without sight of human habitation. Game of all kinds -abounded, and its hunting formed the chief recreation of the gentry and -of those nobles who left London during a portion of the year to dwell -on their estates.</p> - -<p>Thus our young Indian, upon gaining his freedom, found himself amid -surroundings at once familiar and congenial. He had with him the bow -and arrows used in his recent exhibitions, a fire-bag containing -flint, steel, and tinder, and a dirk that had been taken from Blink. -Thus provided he had no anxiety on the score of maintaining himself -comfortably. He realized that the bear was an encumbrance, but in his -present loneliness he was loath to part from it. And so the two pushed -on together until they had penetrated several miles into the forest, -when darkness overtook them.</p> - -<p>Then Nahma made a fire beside a small stream and cooked a rabbit he had -shot an hour earlier, while the bear nosed about for acorns, grubs, and -edible roots. </p> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_233" id="Page_233">[Pg 233]</a></span></p> - -<p>They continued to traverse the forest on the following day, keeping -to the same general direction until our lad was satisfied that he -was beyond danger from pursuit, when he began to look about for a -supper and a camping-place. Both of these came at the same time, for -on discovering, successfully stalking, and finally killing a deer, he -found that the animal had been drinking from a spring of clear water, -beside which he determined to establish his camp. Further than this he -had no plans. It was enough for the present that he was free, in the -forest that he loved, and beyond all knowledge of the white man whom -he hated. Here, then, he would abide for a time, or until he should -discover people of his own kind, for he was still impressed with the -belief that others like himself must inhabit those game-filled forests.</p> - -<p>That night both he and the bear, to whom he talked as though it were a -human being, ate to their satisfaction of deer meat, and Nahma lay down -to sleep beside his shaggy friend, happier than he had been at any time -since leaving his native land. </p> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_234" id="Page_234">[Pg 234]</a></span></p> - -<p>The next morning he was early astir and ready to begin work on the -lodge that he proposed to construct. By mid-day he had the poles of the -frame cut, set in the ground, arched over until they met, and fastened -in position. Then he went in quest of proper material for a thatch -or covering. The bear, having spent the morning in feeding, was left -behind, chained to a small tree and fast asleep.</p> - -<p>While searching for the material he wanted Nahma struck the fresh -trail of a deer, which after a long chase he overtook and killed. -As he was returning with the hide and haunches on his back he was -startled by a baying of hounds, which changed as he listened to a -snarling, growling, and yelping that indicated a battle royal. From -the nature and direction of these sounds our lad realized that trouble -of some kind had come to the bear, and, without a thought of danger to -himself, he ran to the assistance of his comrade. Reaching the scene, -he found the bear, though sadly hampered by his chain, making a gallant -fight against a pack of boar-hounds that had come across him while -ranging the forest. They were<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_235" id="Page_235">[Pg 235]</a></span> fierce, gaunt creatures, and although -two of their number, already knocked out, were lying to one side -feebly licking their wounds, it was evident that the chained bear was -overmatched and must speedily be dragged down. Flinging away his burden -and drawing his dirk, Nahma rushed forward and sprang into the thick of -the fray, uttering the fierce war-cry of the Iroquois as he did so.</p> - -<p>For a few minutes there was a furious and indiscriminate mingling of -bear, dogs, and man, then of a sudden the young Indian was seized -from behind, dragged backward, and flung to the ground by one of two -men clad in the green dress of foresters, who had just arrived on the -scene. While Nahma's assailant hastily but securely fastened the lad's -arms so as to render him harmless, the other ranger ended the battle, -still raging, by thrusting a keen-bladed boar-spear through the bear's -body. It pierced the animal's heart, and he sank with a sobbing groan.</p> - -<p>"A fair sorrowful bit o' wark this, Jean," remarked the man who had -killed the bear, as he examined the several dogs. "Fower dead; two -killed by yon brute and two by the dirk of this<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_236" id="Page_236">[Pg 236]</a></span> wastrel. All the rest -gouged, cut, and bit up. But he'll answer for it smartly when once Sir -Amory claps eyes on him, the thievin', murthren gypsy poacher."</p> - -<p>"Yes, I reckon he'll sweat fine," replied the other, with a grin; "but -did iver thou see bear chained afore?"</p> - -<p>"Noa, niver. Lucky thing 'twas, though. But come on whoam. Bring -Poacher with 'e, and we'll send pack-horse for bear. No use looking -furder for pigs this day."</p> - -<p>So poor Nahma, once more bereft of his freedom and of the dumb brute -whom he regarded as his only friend, his garments rent and his body -bleeding from a dozen wounds, was marched away between the two stout -rangers, while after them trooped the dogs.</p> - -<p>Sir Amory Effingham, a knight in high favor at court, was lord of that -region, and being devoted to the chase, he spent several months of each -year at Garnet Hall, the ivy-covered forest castle in which his family -had been cradled for generations. It lay a league from the scene of -Nahma's capture, and by the time he was brought<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_237" id="Page_237">[Pg 237]</a></span> within sight of its -battlemented towers the short day was closing and night was at hand.</p> - -<p>While one of the rangers kennelled the dogs and looked after their -wounds, the other thrust Nahma, with his hurts still unattended, into -an empty store-room, locked its door, and went to make report of what -had taken place.</p> - -<p>"A gypsy, eh? A poacher, caught red-handed, and a dog-killer, is he?" -quoth Sir Amory, angrily. "Hanging will be too good for him. He should -be drawn and quartered as an example to all of his kidney, and I will -deal with his case in the morning. Look well to him, then, see that he -escapes not, and bring him to me in the great hall after the breaking -of fast."</p> - -<p>"Yes, Sir Amory."</p> - -<p>"And, Jean, send for that bear and have his pelt taken before the body -stiffens."</p> - -<p>"Yes, Sir Amory."</p> - -<p>"Also, Jean, give both the dogs and the prisoner a good feed of bear's -meat."</p> - -<p>So all was done as directed; only Nahma, realizing the nature of the -food thrown to him some hours later, refused to eat of it.</p> - -<hr /> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_238" id="Page_238">[Pg 238]</a></span></p> - -<h2><span>CHAPTER XXIII</span> <span class="smaller">AN HONORED GUEST</span></h2> - -<p>On the following morning, after the lord of the manor, his family, and -all his retainers had partaken of their rude but abundant breakfast, -and washed it down with copious draughts of ale, which at that time -took the place of coffee or tea, Sir Amory ordered the prisoner of -the preceding evening to be brought before him. The dining-tables, -which were merely boards laid on trestles, were cleared away, and the -great hall was made ready to serve as a court of justice. Witnesses -were summoned, and spectators gathered, until but few of the knight's -following were absent. Squires, pages, men-at-arms, grooms, foresters, -and under-servants, all filled with an eager curiosity, flocked to the -scene of trial; for the case in hand was of so serious a nature that -its resulting punishment would be certain to afford vast entertainment.</p> - -<p>In those days the killing of a deer by any <span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_239" id="Page_239">[Pg 239]</a></span>person beneath the rank of -a gentleman was a capital offence; while the killing of a hunting dog -by one of the peasant class ranked as a crime so abominable as to merit -the severest penalty. For either of these things the offender might be -hanged, whipped to death, or executed in any other fitting manner, at -the discretion of the judge. He might not be beheaded, as that form -of punishment was reserved for offences against the state, committed -by persons of rank. Neither might he be burned, since the stake was -only for witches and victims of religious persecution. If the lord of -the manor were inclined to be merciful, the deer-stealer or dog-killer -might be given his life, and escape with some such slight punishment -as having his ears cropped or a hand chopped off; but in the present -case it was universally agreed that the crime was of a nature to demand -the severest possible punishment. Thus, when the prisoner appeared, -he was regarded with eager curiosity as one who promised to furnish a -spectacle of uncommon interest.</p> - -<p>Friendless, wounded, ragged, half starved, and utterly ignorant of the -situation confronting him,<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_240" id="Page_240">[Pg 240]</a></span> the son of Longfeather was led the whole -length of the great hall to the dais at its upper end, on which sat the -master of his fate. As he was halted, Sir Amory exclaimed,—</p> - -<p>"On my soul, as scurvy a knave as ever I set eyes upon. I knew not that -even a gypsy could present so foul an aspect. What is thy name and -condition, sirrah?"</p> - -<p>Not understanding what was said, Nahma made no answer. Only, recalling -the teaching of his own people, he stared his questioner full in the -face with a mien that, in spite of his sorry plight, was quite as -haughty as that of the knight himself.</p> - -<p>"A contumacious varlet and insolent," remarked Sir Amory, "but it is -possible that we may find means to lower his pride. Let the ranger -named Jem stand forth and relate his tale of the occurrence concerning -which this investigation is made."</p> - -<p>So Jem told his story, and it was corroborated by the other forester. -Also were the dead hounds introduced as evidence, together with the -dirk that Nahma had used so effectively. </p> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_241" id="Page_241">[Pg 241]</a></span></p> - -<p>"What hast thou to say in thy own behalf, scoundrel?" asked the knight, -turning again to the prisoner after all this testimony against him had -been submitted.</p> - -<p>Still there was no answer, but only an unflinching gaze and a proudly -uplifted head.</p> - -<p>"Think you the creature is dumb?" inquired the puzzled magistrate.</p> - -<p>"No, Sir Amory," replied one of the foresters, "of a surety he is not, -for we heard him call loudly to the bear, and at sound of his voice the -beast made violent effort to break his chain that he might get to him."</p> - -<p>"Chain?" quoth the knight. "This is the first mention I have heard of -any chain. What mean you? Was the bear indeed chained?"</p> - -<p>"Chained and muzzled was he," admitted the ranger, "else it had gone -more hardly with the dogs than happened."</p> - -<p>"Chained and muzzled," repeated the knight, reflectively, and -casting a searching gaze upon the prisoner. "Still, it may be only a -coincidence." With this he gave an order in a low tone to a page who -stood at hand, and the boy darted away. </p> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_242" id="Page_242">[Pg 242]</a></span></p> - -<p>"Saw you trace of other gypsies at or near that place?" asked the -knight, continuing his examination of the forester.</p> - -<p>"No, Sir Amory. That is, we saw no humans, but there was a booth partly -built close at hand."</p> - -<p>"What is the material of the prisoner's dress?"</p> - -<p>"Deer-skin, Sir Amory, nothing less."</p> - -<p>At this moment a tapestry was drawn aside, and a lady, appearing on the -dais, stood beside her husband with a look of inquiry. She was followed -by one bearing in her arms a child, at sight of which the prisoner was -surprised into a momentary start as of recognition.</p> - -<p>"My dear," said Sir Amory, "will you favor us by glancing at yonder -gypsy and telling if ever you have set eyes on him before?"</p> - -<p>The lady looked in the direction indicated, but shook her head. Ere she -could speak, however, the maid, who had followed her gaze, uttered a -cry, and exclaimed,—</p> - -<p>"It is the very one, my lady. The youth, I mean, who danced with that -dreadful bear and saved the life of my little mistress."</p> - -<p>"Yes," said the lady, slowly. "I did not<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_243" id="Page_243">[Pg 243]</a></span> recognize him on the moment; -but now me-thinks he is the same from whose hands I received my child, -safe and unharmed, though blood-bespattered. But, Amory, what is he -doing here? A prisoner and under guard! Surely——"</p> - -<p>"It is all a mistake," cried the knight, rising to his feet in great -agitation. "He is not a prisoner, but an honored guest. Nor is he -under guard, but under the protection of one who owes to him a life -dearer than his own. Gentlemen, the hearing is dismissed; the prisoner -is honorably acquitted, and will hereafter be known as my friend, if -indeed he can forgive the cruel wrong I meditated against him. Away, -ye varlets. Bring food and wine. Fetch warm water and clean napery, -salve and liniments. Body o' me! The youth is wounded and hath had no -attention. He looks ready to drop with weakness. Draw a settle for him -beside the fire. Fetch——"</p> - -<p>But the servants were already flying in every direction in their -efforts to minister to the evident needs of him whose position had -undergone so sudden a transformation. </p> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_244" id="Page_244">[Pg 244]</a></span></p> - -<p>At the same time Nahma himself was even more bewildered by the good -fortune that was overwhelming him than ever by the hard fate that had -for so long been his constant attendant.</p> - -<p>Somewhat later the lady who, with her companions, had withdrawn, came -again to the hall, and stepping to where she could obtain a good view -of the youth, looked at him steadily for the space of a minute. He, in -the mean time, had been bathed and fed, his wounds had been dressed, -and he wore a body-gown from the knight's own wardrobe that gave him an -air of grace and dignity.</p> - -<p>"He is no gypsy, Sir Amory," said the lady, finally, withdrawing her -gaze and turning to her husband.</p> - -<p>"I myself am beginning to doubt if he belongs to those nomads," replied -the knight. "But if not a gypsy, to what race can he lay claim, with -that tinge of color and with hair of such raven blackness?"</p> - -<p>"Dost remember the tale told us in London by my cousin Edward -concerning an arrival from the New World in whom he had taken an -interest?" </p> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_245" id="Page_245">[Pg 245]</a></span></p> - -<p>"Ay, well do I, and it so aroused my curiosity that I made an errand -shortly after to the place where he was said to be, but he had -disappeared. How was he called? Can you remember the name?"</p> - -<p>"He was called 'Massasoit,'" replied the lady, uttering the word -distinctly and observing the youth as she spoke.</p> - -<p>Turning quickly he looked at her with eager questioning.</p> - -<p>"Who are your friends?" she asked, addressing him directly and speaking -the words slowly.</p> - -<p>He understood and answered, "Bear frien'. Tasquanto frien'. White man -frien', Winslow."</p> - -<p>"That proves it!" cried the lady, triumphantly. "He must be the -American Indian of whom Cousin Edward told us, and who is said to be a -prince in his own country. At any rate, as he certainly saved the life -of our child, we have ample reason to befriend him."</p> - -<p>"Indeed, yes," agreed Sir Amory. "And to fail in a duty so plainly -indicated would lay us open to the charge of base ingratitude."</p> - -<p>Thus it happened that the young American<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_246" id="Page_246">[Pg 246]</a></span> who had been kidnapped from -his own country, sold as a slave in London, and finally arrested on a -charge that threatened to cost him his life, became the honored guest -of a stately English home. His hosts sought in every way to promote -his comfort and happiness, and when they discovered that he preferred -living in the open to dwelling under a roof, he was promptly given -the freedom of their domain. He was also accorded full liberty to -dwell on it where he pleased, and to kill such of its abundant game as -would supply his needs. Armed with this permission, Nahma immediately -repaired to the place where he had already begun the building of a -lodge after the fashion of his own people, and completed it to his -satisfaction as well as that of his hosts, who took a lively interest -in his work. He covered it with bark and lined its interior with the -skins of fur-bearing animals. In the centre was his fireplace, and at -one side his couch of dry sedge-grass covered with the great shaggy -hide of his one-time friend, the bear. Here our Indian dwelt almost as -contentedly as though in his own land and under the trees of his native -forest. </p> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_247" id="Page_247">[Pg 247]</a></span></p> - -<p>Much of his time was devoted to accompanying Sir Amory on his hunting -expeditions, during which the youth's marvellous skill in tracking game -and his fearlessness in moments of peril won for him both admiration -and respect.</p> - -<p>On days when there was no hunting he busied himself with making bows, -arrows, or snow-shoes, and in receiving visits from the green-coated -foresters, whose tastes and pursuits were so similar to his own. He -taught them some things, but learned more than he taught; and chiefest -of all the things that he learned was to load and fire a musket. Thus -was solved the mystery of the white man's thunder-stick, and he could -now smile as he recalled the melancholy experience of Tasquanto and -himself in attempting to fire a salute.</p> - -<p>So some months were happily passed, and it seemed as though our young -American would spend the remainder of his life as an English forester. -Then all of a sudden there occurred an amazing thing, by which he was -rendered so unhappy that he no longer cared to live if the balance of -his days must be passed under existing conditions.</p> - -<hr /> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_248" id="Page_248">[Pg 248]</a></span></p> - -<h2><span>CHAPTER XXIV</span> <span class="smaller">NAHMA REMEMBERS</span></h2> - -<p>Most welcome of all the guests at Nahma's lodge was the little lady -Betty, who was sometimes taken thither by her father mounted in front -of him on his great Flemish horse Baldric. A strong friendship had -sprung up between the child and the young Indian, and she was never -happier than during the hour occasionally spent with him. She always -brought some little gift, and he never failed to have ready a unique -bit of his own handiwork to offer in return. Once it was a wee bow and -a quiver of small stone-headed arrows. Again he presented her with the -beautifully dressed skin of an otter. At length he completed a pair of -tiny snow-shoes gayly fringed and ornamented. For some days after they -were finished he waited expectantly the coming of his little friend, -and as she failed to appear, he finally decided to take his gift to the -castle. </p> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_249" id="Page_249">[Pg 249]</a></span></p> - -<p>Now, it happened that Sir Amory, being called by some business to the -near-by city of Bristol, had taken his wife and little daughter with -him for a brief visit, from which they had just returned. As was usual -on such occasions, they had brought back a number of trifling gifts for -members of the household, and also one for the young Indian whom they -held in such high esteem.</p> - -<p>The city of Bristol, more than any other in England, was building up -a trade with the New World. While this trade was more especially with -the Virginia plantations, it was gradually extending northward along -the American coast. Thus a ship, recently returned, had voyaged as far -north as the French settlements, trading with natives wherever found on -her way. This ship had brought back many curious things, among which -was an object of native make that Sir Amory, having his Indian guest in -his mind, purchased on sight.</p> - -<p>"It may interest him," he said to his wife, "and, at any rate, it will -be something for Betty to take him when next she and I ride to his -lodge." So this present was fetched home with the others,<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_250" id="Page_250">[Pg 250]</a></span> and was to -have been carried out to Nahma on the very day of his appearance at the -castle.</p> - -<p>On learning that the Indian waited outside with a gift for Betty, Sir -Amory ordered him to be brought in. The knight and his lady together -with several guests were grouped near the huge fireplace in the great -hall as Nahma entered and, advancing gravely, extended a hand to his -host. Then, looking about inquiringly, he pronounced the single word -"Betty."</p> - -<p>"I' faith!" laughed the knight, "the young man hath quickly recognized -the most important personage of this establishment and will have -dealings with none other. Let Mistress Betty be brought."</p> - -<p>As soon as the little girl appeared, the young Indian, kneeling -gracefully, presented her with his gift. After the tiny snow-shoes had -been passed from hand to hand for inspection and their use had been -explained, Lady Effingham said,—</p> - -<p>"Now, Betty, give him the present fetched from Bristol."</p> - -<p>Thus saying she placed a small packet in the<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_251" id="Page_251">[Pg 251]</a></span> child's hand, and the -latter, advancing shyly, handed it to Nahma. With a smiling face the -young warrior undid the wrappings of the packet until its contents were -exposed. Suddenly his expression changed to one of consternation and -bewilderment. For a moment he held the object in his hands gazing at -it wildly and in evident perplexity. Then he uttered a great cry and -a gush of tears filled his eyes. He gasped and seemed about to speak; -but, words failing him, he turned and fled from the hall, leaving its -occupants amazed at his strange actions.</p> - -<p>"It is doubtless a native charm of some kind," quoth the knight, -breaking the silence, "and a powerful one at that, for never did I see -a man so upset by a trifle. After a little, when he has had time to -quiet down, I will question him concerning his agitation, but until -then we must amuse ourselves with conjecture."</p> - -<p>In the mean time Nahma had not paused in his flight until reaching his -own lodge. There he sat down and examined his newly acquired prize -with minutest care, alternately laughing and <span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_252" id="Page_252">[Pg 252]</a></span>crying as he did so. At -length, apparently satisfied with his inspection, he said aloud in the -long forgotten tongue of the Wampanoags,—</p> - -<p>"Truly it is my father's wampum, and I am Nahma, the son of -Longfeather."</p> - -<p>It was indeed the Belt of Seven Totems, thus marvellously restored to -him from whose unconscious form it had been taken nearly three years -earlier in the far-away land of the Iroquois. Not only had Nahma thus -regained his father's badge of authority, but at sight of it the memory -of his earlier years, lost to him ever since he had been struck down -by Miantinomo, was abruptly and fully restored. He recalled who he was -and found himself once more in command of his native tongue. He also -remembered every incident of his journey to the country of the Maqua as -though it had been undertaken but the day before. He even remembered -lying down for a brief rest after eating his supper on the western bank -of the Shatemuc; but beyond that came a blank, and his next memory was -of Aeana in the lodge of Kaweras.</p> - -<p>As these things passed through his mind in<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_253" id="Page_253">[Pg 253]</a></span> rapid review, he was also -whelmed by a great wave of home-sickness. The voices of his own people -rang in his ears, and he heard the plash of waves on the beach at -Montaup. The scent of burning cedar from the evening camp-fires was -in his nostrils, and he felt the spring of brown pine needles beneath -his feet as he threaded the dim forest trails of his native land. In -a bark canoe he once more ran the foaming rapids of great rivers, or, -lying beside Tasquanto, he was lulled to sleep by the roar of mighty -cataracts. So distinct were the pictures thus flashed before him by the -magic belt that he had no longer a wish to live unless he could once -more gaze upon them in reality. Every other feeling was merged in an -intense desire to regain his own country and rejoin his own people.</p> - -<p>At length the longing for these things became so great that the youth -sprang to his feet, determined to set forth at once in quest of them. -His reason told him that such an adventure was well-nigh hopeless; but -the wampum belt urged him forward and persuaded him that by some means -he would succeed. So Nahma departed forever<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_254" id="Page_254">[Pg 254]</a></span> from the lodge that, but -an hour earlier, had seemed his home for life, and set forth on the -tremendous journey. He took with him only his weapons, a fur cloak, the -fire-bag that had once belonged to Aeana, and the Belt of Seven Totems -girded about his body next his skin.</p> - -<p>As he emerged from the lodge he stood for a moment irresolute. Whither -should he turn? What path would lead him to Montaup? Then the last word -uttered in his hearing by Betty's mother rang again in his ears. It -was "Bristol." From there the belt had but recently come, and there he -would begin to retrace its mysterious course to the place where he had -lost it. He had heard the foresters speak of Bristol, and he knew that -it lay in the direction of the setting sun. What Bristol was, or how -far away, he did not know, any more than what he should do upon getting -there. It was enough that his first step was decided upon, and without -a single backward glance he began his long homeward journey.</p> - -<p>An hour later Sir Amory on his good horse Baldric, and with mistress -Betty in his arms, rode up to the deserted lodge and uttered a<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_255" id="Page_255">[Pg 255]</a></span> cheery -call for its supposed occupant to come forth. The knight was puzzled -at finding the place empty; and for several days thereafter he caused -search to be made for its recent owner. But nothing came of this, nor -for many years did he hear a word concerning the disappearance and -whereabouts of Massasoit.</p> - -<p>That night Nahma slept in the wood, as lonely and friendless a human -being as could be found in all the world, but so happy in his regained -memory and in the knowledge that he, like others, could now lay claim -to home and people, towards whom he was journeying, that nothing else -mattered. On the morrow he struck the broad trail of a highway that -led to the westward, and thereafter he followed it. Noting that his -appearance attracted attention from the few travellers whom he met, he -determined to procure a suit of clothing that would render him less -conspicuous.</p> - -<p>He dreaded to approach a house, and was at a loss how to accomplish his -purpose until at dusk of the second day. Then he ran across a camp-fire -surrounded by a group of dark-skinned<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_256" id="Page_256">[Pg 256]</a></span> persons, who for a moment he -believed to be people of his own race. He did not discover his mistake -until he was within the circle of fire-light and it was too late to -retreat. So he put on a bold face, accepted an invitation to eat with -the gypsies, and strove hard, though without success, to understand -what they said.</p> - -<p>They in turn were as much puzzled by him as he was by them; but this -did not prevent them from exchanging a well-worn suit of clothing for -Nahma's fur robe when he intimated by signs his willingness to make -such a trade. As soon as he procured these things he put them on over -his buckskin garments; and, as a dilapidated cap had been thrown in -to complete the bargain, he was so thoroughly disguised that even Sir -Amory would have failed to recognize him.</p> - -<p>The gypsies invited their guest to cast his fortunes with them, and -proposed among themselves to compel him to do so in any event. He -neither declined nor accepted their offer, but after a while lay down -to sleep near their fire, as though willing, at any rate, to remain -with them for the present. Thus they were much chagrined to find in -the<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_257" id="Page_257">[Pg 257]</a></span> morning that he had disappeared without leaving a trace to show -which way he had gone.</p> - -<p>So it happened that our wanderer came at length to the snug little -seaport of Bristol, at that time second in importance only to London. -And thus was taken the first step of his momentous journey. Dusk -was falling as he entered the place, and for some time he wandered -aimlessly through its narrow streets.</p> - -<p>Then, unexpectedly, he came to the water front and discovered ships, -some under sail and others anchored in the stream. His heart leaped at -sight of them, for he supposed that all ships passed to and from his -own country. Therefore if he could only find one about to depart, and -contrive to get on board, the second and longest step of his journey -would be provided for.</p> - -<p>He managed to exchange his bow and arrows for a meal in a small -public-house near the water, and when he had eaten it he again strolled -outside looking for a place in which to pass the night. It was now -quite dark, and, without going far, he lay down to sleep under the lee -of a boat that was drawn up on one of the wharves. </p> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_258" id="Page_258">[Pg 258]</a></span></p> - -<p>Some hours later he was awakened by sounds of shouting and scuffling -close at hand, and sprang to his feet in alarm. As he did so a rough -voice called out,—</p> - -<p>"Here's another stout fellow! Seize him, lads, and hustle him along."</p> - -<p>Immediately Nahma was surrounded, and, despite his furious struggles, -was quickly overthrown and securely bound.</p> - -<hr /> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_259" id="Page_259">[Pg 259]</a></span></p> - -<h2><span>CHAPTER XXV</span> <span class="smaller">BACK TO AMERICA</span></h2> - -<p>For a short space our lad was heart-broken by this rude awakening from -his dreams of freedom and of a return to his own country. Half dazed as -he was, he had fought desperately; and now, hustled along in company -with a dozen other unfortunates, all bound and suffering from rough -handling, his sole thought was of how he could soonest put an end to -the life that he was resolved not to pass in slavery. He recalled with -satisfaction the dirk that, hidden in his clothing, still remained to -him, and was determined to use it at the earliest opportunity, first on -such of his present enemies as he could reach and then on himself.</p> - -<p>Suddenly his sombre reflections were interrupted and given a decided -change of direction by finding himself crowded, together with his -wretched companions, into a boat. No sooner had it received them than -it was rowed out to the<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_260" id="Page_260">[Pg 260]</a></span> mouth of the harbor where stood a ship under -easy sail.</p> - -<p>From the moment of realizing that he was in a boat Nahma was filled -with a wild hope, and when he was transferred from it to the deck of a -waiting ship this hope was confirmed. For some reason utterly beyond -his comprehension he had once more been kidnapped, but only to be -placed in the very position he had longed to attain.</p> - -<p>The ways of the white man were past understanding. Why had he been -brought by force from his own country? and why should an equal amount -of anxiety now be shown, and even a greater amount of force be used, -to carry him back to it? He could not imagine, nor did he care. It was -enough that the second step of his homeward journey had been taken for -him and that the object he had so ardently desired was accomplished.</p> - -<p>Nahma would gladly have remained on deck and attempted to make himself -useful without a thought of escaping or of doing harm to those who had -unwittingly so aided his plans. But this was not permitted, and he was -bundled below<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_261" id="Page_261">[Pg 261]</a></span> with the poor wretches who had been ruthlessly torn from -their homes to be taken as bondsmen to the Virginia plantations.</p> - -<p>So great was the demand for labor in that colony that criminals were -sent there to work out their sentences and debtors to labor until their -indebtedness was discharged. In fact, all of whom society wished to -rid itself were shipped across the ocean. Men anxious to try their -fortunes in the New World but too poor to pay their passage went out -under contract, to serve any master who would purchase their time until -they had made good the money thus advanced. But even these sources -of supply were not sufficient to satisfy the demand for laborers, -and unscrupulous shipmasters found great profit in gathering up -unsuspecting citizens by means of press-gangs sent ashore on the eve of -departure, getting them on board, and sailing at once for the distant -scene of their enforced servitude.</p> - -<p>Thus Nahma now found himself in a motley company of mechanics, sailors, -small tradesmen, 'prentice lads, and others, all being carried away -against their will and without the knowledge of<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_262" id="Page_262">[Pg 262]</a></span> their friends. -Some had left dependent families unprovided for, while others were -parted from sweethearts or newly married wives. To us of to-day all -this sounds incredible; but the age of "good Queen Bess" was an age -of cruelty, when even the best thinking persons only shrugged their -shoulders on hearing of such things, and thanked their stars that they -were not in similar plight.</p> - -<p>Some of the group now surrounding Nahma in the small space allotted to -them, which was dimly lighted by a vilely smoking lamp, were groaning, -some weeping, others were bemoaning their hard fate, and all were as -wretchedly unhappy as it is possible for mortals to be. That is, all -except our young Indian, who was overjoyed at finding himself on a ship -that he believed would carry him back to his own country and people.</p> - -<p>The kidnapped men were kept below for several days, or until land was -out of sight and the ship was ploughing her slow way across the Bay of -Biscay; but after that they were allowed on deck from sunrise until -dark. As Nahma, buoyed by hope and eager anticipation, was the only one -among them who was not seasick, he<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_263" id="Page_263">[Pg 263]</a></span> was compelled to act as steward -of their mess. At first his duties in this capacity were light and he -performed them willingly, but later, when his companions had gained -their sea-legs, they forced all sorts of disagreeable tasks upon him, -and treated him with such cruelty that his hatred of white men was -increased a hundred-fold.</p> - -<p>They were much puzzled over his nationality, which he never revealed, -though often questioned concerning it. Most of them declared that he -was a gypsy, while others insisted that he was of negro blood and -called him "Guinea." The captain of the ship while strongly suspecting -him to be an American would not admit it, but spoke of him as a "Jack -Spaniard."</p> - -<p>So slow was the weary voyage that it was two months to a day before -the westerly winds against which they were beating brought to Nahma's -sensitive nostrils the first scent of land. That evening he hid himself -on deck so that he might sniff the air all night, and at daybreak he -was rewarded by the sight of land lying cloud-like on the western -horizon.</p> - -<p>During that day he was so inattentive to his<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_264" id="Page_264">[Pg 264]</a></span> enforced duties as -to win many a blow and kick from his brutal masters. Although the -young Indian's blood boiled with rage, he did not attempt to resent -these things, but submitted to them with an assumed meekness that -ill-expressed his feelings. He felt that he could afford to abide his -time, for was he not almost within reach of his own people? At the same -time deep down in his heart he vowed a bitter vengeance against those -who thus degraded him, if ever the opportunity should come. And it came -sooner than he expected, though not through his own people, as he had -hoped.</p> - -<p>Before the features of the landfall became recognizable the wind hauled -to the eastward and the weather thickened, with every indication of a -storm. Thus the skipper was greatly relieved shortly before night to -find his ship running into a broad bay between two distant headlands -that he believed to be the capes of Virginia, though in reality they -were those of Delaware. Without attempting to discover the mouth of the -James, he sought only a lee under which the night might be passed in -safety. </p> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_265" id="Page_265">[Pg 265]</a></span></p> - -<p>When this was found and the ship was snugly anchored for the first time -since leaving Bristol, not only the captain but his entire company -began a carouse to celebrate this successful termination of their -perilous voyage. Liquor flowed freely in the cabin, and was served -forward in such generous measure that a liberal portion even found its -way to the wretched bondmen who expected shortly to be sold into years -of servitude. Thus by midnight nearly every man on board was helplessly -drunk, and most of them were asleep.</p> - -<p>Up to this hour the storm had steadily increased in violence, and the -ship, though still safe, was surging heavily at her cables. At the -same time but a single figure was in motion on her decks, and he was -creeping forward as stealthily as though fearful of being discovered. -Gaining the bow undetected, he bent for a minute over one of the -straining cables, and when he arose two of its hempen strands had been -severed. Then he stepped quickly to the other, drew his keen blade -across it once, twice, three times, and with the last stroke it parted. -The one first cut gave way almost at the same moment, and the<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_266" id="Page_266">[Pg 266]</a></span> freed -ship started up the bay like a restive steed just given a loose rein.</p> - -<p>With his long-meditated design thus successfully accomplished, Nahma -darted back to his place of hiding and awaited developments. He had -long since discovered that he was destined to be sold into slavery -among those white men who had settled far to the southward of his own -country. Tales of their injustice and cruelty towards the natives -had reached Montaup even before he left there, and had filled his -boyish heart with a fierce indignation. Now he was determined not -to fall alive into their hands, and believed that on this night or -never he must effect an escape. He could not swim to shore because of -the distance and the heavy seas. All the ship's boats were inboard -and securely lashed, so that he could not make off in one of them. -Consequently his only feasible plan seemed to be to let the ship -herself drift until she fetched up on some beach, from which he might -gain the safe cover of the woods. He had never experienced a shipwreck -and knew nothing of its terrors. Even if he had he would not have -hesitated to carry out his desperate plan. </p> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_267" id="Page_267">[Pg 267]</a></span></p> - -<p>The captain of the drifting ship, too hard-headed to be overcome by any -amount of liquor, was the first to become aware that her cables had -parted. He stumbled on deck, bawling out orders that were mingled with -strange oaths, and, gaining the wheel, put his vessel's head before the -wind that she might scud without danger of being thrown on her beam -ends. Then he bellowed for assistance, but it came tardily, and was of -slight avail. There was but one spare anchor, and when finally it was -broken out, bent on, and got overboard, the ship was so far in the open -that it could not hold.</p> - -<p>So the helpless vessel drifted for several hours, and shortly before -daybreak struck with such force that all of her masts went by the -board. Then ensued a period of horrible crashing, grinding, and -pounding, with which were mingled the shrieks of drowning men. Some of -the strongest swimmers reached the shore, bruised and breathless but -still alive, and foremost among them was the almost naked form of him -who had caused the disaster.</p> - -<p>Battered and beaten by roaring breakers, weak<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_268" id="Page_268">[Pg 268]</a></span> and nearly perished with -cold, Nahma was at the same time upheld by such a spirit of exultation -as he had never before known. He was once more free and once more lying -on the beloved soil of his native land. No sooner had he regained his -breath after being flung on the beach than he struggled to his feet -and staggered to the safe shelter of a forest that grew almost to the -water's edge. He did not look back nor give a thought to what was -taking place behind him. The white men who would have sold him into -slavery might care for themselves, as might those who had so recently -degraded him by their blows and curses.</p> - -<p>An hour later our young Indian was seated by a camp-fire of the -Saganaga or Delawares, and telling them in sign language, supplemented -by the few words they had in common, of the wonderful treasure that the -sea had brought to their very doors.</p> - -<p>They, recognizing the splendid belt of wampum that he wore, listened -to him with closest attention; and when he had finished, all the -able-bodied men of the village hastened to the scene of the wreck,<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_269" id="Page_269">[Pg 269]</a></span> -leaving Nahma to the kindly hospitality of those who remained behind.</p> - -<p>That night there was no village in the Delaware nation, nor probably on -the entire Atlantic coast, so rich in scalps and plunder as the one in -which the son of Longfeather was an honored guest.</p> - -<hr /> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_270" id="Page_270">[Pg 270]</a></span></p> - -<h2><span>CHAPTER XXVI</span> <span class="smaller">SASSACUS THE PEQUOT</span></h2> - -<p>This utter destruction of the ship and of her entire company gave great -satisfaction not only to the young Indian who had suffered so much on -her but to the Saganaga, who were at that time feeling very bitter -against white men on account of the recent stealing of a number of -their tribe to be sold into slavery. It had been the usual case of a -cordial welcome to the strangers from beyond the sea, a brisk trade by -which the confidence of the Indians was won, and then a sudden sailing -with some twenty of them on board. Now, thanks to Nahma, the Lenni -Lenape were revenged and their hearts were lightened of a burden.</p> - -<p>Also they had acquired wealth beyond their wildest dreams, and were -very grateful to him who had thrown it in their way. He did not tell -them that he had been a slave in the white man's country, for he was -determined to keep that <span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_271" id="Page_271">[Pg 271]</a></span>humiliating knowledge to himself. So he only -gave them to understand that he too had been kidnapped, and let them -imagine it to have been of recent occurrence.</p> - -<p>They had at once recognized the Belt of Seven Totems that Nahma wore -diagonally across his breast when first appearing among them, though no -member of their tribe had ever before seen it. They, however, knew it -from description; for, among American Indians, tribal totems and the -belts of principal chieftains were as well known as are the banners of -European nations, and the coats of arms of their rulers, among white -men. The Saganaga also knew that none but Longfeather or his eldest son -might wear the Belt of Seven Totems, and so they treated Nahma with -every mark of consideration.</p> - -<p>Finding that he was desirous of returning at once to his own country, -they furnished him with clothing, weapons, and a belt of wampum bearing -the likeness of a serpent, which he was to deliver to the Peacemaker as -a badge of friendship. They also provided an escort of young warriors, -who would guide him to the country of the <span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_272" id="Page_272">[Pg 272]</a></span>Pavonias. These people, who -were a branch of the Saganaga, occupied the territory lying on the -south side of the Shatemuc at the point where it flows into the sea, -and they willingly furnished Nahma with a canoe in which to continue -his journey.</p> - -<p>Launching this craft on the waters of the narrow, tide-swept channel -afterwards known as the Kill von Kull, and receiving from his friends a -goodly store of parched corn, our traveller set forth alone on the last -stage of his homeward journey.</p> - -<p>On leaving the Kill he crossed New York Bay, undotted by a single sail, -passed the densely wooded island that was to be known as "Governor's," -and entered the East River. Here he came upon a scene of enchanting -beauty. On his right stretched the level salt marshes and wooded plains -of Long Island. On the other hand lay rock-ribbed Manhattan, rugged -with hills and valleys, among which sparkled many crystal springs and -rippling brooks. It was covered from end to end and from water's edge -to water's edge with groves of stately forest-trees<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_273" id="Page_273">[Pg 273]</a></span> interspersed -with grassy glades in which fed herds of deer. Over all was flung the -exquisite veil of a May verdure, while the air was heavy with the scent -of blossoms and filled with the song of mating birds. On the river's -edge brown rocks were fringed with fantastic sea-growths that waved in -the swift tide like banners streaming in a breeze.</p> - -<p>Brooding ducks and wading heron peopled every placid cove, fish leaped -from the clear waters, and white-plumed gulls flecked the blue sky. The -beauty and peace of nature reigned undisturbed over all; for, as yet, -no Old World keel had cleaved those waters, and the site of what was -destined to become the greatest city of the earth was still untainted -by the blight of civilization. Nor did Nahma see a human being on his -whole journey from bay to sound. In the place destined to hold millions -of his kind he was alone.</p> - -<p>Skirting the northern shore of Long Island Sound, the solitary voyager, -always taking pains to avoid observation, passed the country of the -Mohicans and entered upon that of the Pequots.<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_274" id="Page_274">[Pg 274]</a></span> During the four days -thus occupied he had not held communication with any man, having -shunned alike the infrequent villages of bark huts and the camp-fires -of fishermen or shell gatherers, as well as their canoes. He did not -wish to be delayed or recognized before reaching the country of his own -people. Consequently he hesitated for a moment when, on the fourth day -of his journey, he discovered two figures in a canoe making signals of -distress.</p> - -<p>They were midway between an island lying several miles off shore -and the mainland, and their canoe was so low in the water that it -seemed about to sink. One of the figures was that of a man, who was -paddling with desperate energy, while the other, evidently a woman, was -furiously bailing water from the sinking craft. Only for a moment did -Nahma hesitate, and then he headed with all speed in that direction.</p> - -<p>The water-logged canoe sank before he reached it; but, within a few -minutes, he had rescued the survivors, and they were safely bestowed in -his own craft. With this accomplished, he started towards the land that -had been their objective-point <span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_275" id="Page_275">[Pg 275]</a></span>when, as he afterwards learned, their -canoe had been pierced and ripped open by a sword-fish. Whether this -had been done with malice, playfully, or by accident they could not -tell; but it had so endangered their lives that they would, almost of a -certainty, have drowned had not the stranger come to their rescue.</p> - -<p>Not a word was spoken by any one of the three until the canoe had -nearly gained the land. Then the rescued man, who, though young, was of -commanding aspect, turned from his paddling in the bow and said,—</p> - -<p>"Thou hast saved us from death and I will not forget it. I am Sassacus, -chief of the Pequots."</p> - -<p>Nahma's heart leaped within him. The Pequots formed one of the tribes -acknowledging the authority of his father, and this youth was his -own cousin. He was about to make reply, when the other continued: "I -perceive thou art a stranger, and if thy business be not too pressing, -my lodge would be honored to shelter thee as a guest."</p> - -<p>"Gladly would I tarry," was the reply, "but I may not, for I bear a -belt from the Saganaga<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_276" id="Page_276">[Pg 276]</a></span> to Longfeather the Peacemaker, that must be -promptly delivered. The name by which I am known is Massasoit."</p> - -<p>The Pequot chieftain turned and gazed keenly at the speaker. "Have not -the Lenni Lenape learned that Longfeather has gone the great journey?" -he asked.</p> - -<p>"Dead! Longfeather dead, and I not with him at the end!" cried Nahma, -shocked by the suddenness of this news into an unpremeditated betrayal -of feeling. "When did he die, and how? Was he killed in battle?"</p> - -<p>"He went to the place of Okis when the willow leaves were the size -of mouse-ears, and he was killed by the pale-faces who come from the -sea with death and destruction in their hands," answered the young -chieftain, bitterly.</p> - -<p>"Killed by the white man!" gasped Nahma, his face growing black and the -cords of his neck swelling with rage. "Then by his blood I swear——"</p> - -<p>"Wait," commanded Sassacus. "Not directly did the men from the sea -take his life, nor was his blood shed. With the falling of leaves one<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_277" id="Page_277">[Pg 277]</a></span> -of their winged canoes came to land near Montaup. From it were set -on shore two men more nearly dead than living. Then the great canoe -departed, leaving them to die. The dwellers of that country took pity -on them and cared for them; but they died, and in a short time all -who had gone near them were also dead. The plague spread from the -Pokanokets to the Nausets, the Nipmucks, the Naticks, the Abenakis, and -may still be spreading in the land of cold, though on this side it was -stayed by the coming of warm weather, and thy—— Longfeather was the -last to die of it."</p> - -<p>For a few moments Nahma sat silent. Then, lifting his face, on which -were unconcealed traces of a mighty grief, he said, "I will go with -thee, Sassacus."</p> - -<p>"It is well," replied the other, and no further word was spoken between -them until after a landing was made. Even then the subject that had so -greatly affected the new-comer was not again mentioned until after he -had been taken to the lodge of the young chieftain and refreshed. This -having been done, the guest requested that<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_278" id="Page_278">[Pg 278]</a></span> his host would walk apart -with him, and when they were by themselves he said,—</p> - -<p>"Thy news of the Peacemaker hath so confused my plans that I am at a -loss how to proceed and would learn further from thee. First I would -know who exercises authority in place of the great Wampanoag? Left he a -son to rule in his stead?"</p> - -<p>Sassacus looked curiously at his guest as he answered,—</p> - -<p>"Longfeather had a son who should take his place, but he disappeared -many moons ago."</p> - -<p>"How?"</p> - -<p>"No man knows for a certainty. Some say that he joined the Iroquois, -and others that he was taken prisoner by the Hurons of the cold land. -In that case there is small chance of his being now alive."</p> - -<p>"Who, then, wears the Belt of Seven Totems?"</p> - -<p>"No one wears it," replied the other, gravely, "for it also disappeared -at the same time. Miantinomo the Narragansett claims the place and -authority of Longfeather in the name of Canonicus, his father, and is -even now at Montaup." </p> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_279" id="Page_279">[Pg 279]</a></span></p> - -<p>"Miantinomo!" exclaimed Nahma, bitterly. "By what right does he make -such a claim?"</p> - -<p>"By the right of a strong arm," replied the other.</p> - -<p>"Is he loved and respected as was Longfeather?"</p> - -<p>"No; he is hated by many and feared by all."</p> - -<p>"Why, then, was he allowed to assume authority?"</p> - -<p>"Because there was none other to dispute him."</p> - -<p>"If one should come——?" began Nahma, hesitatingly.</p> - -<p>"If one should come wearing the Belt of Seven Totems, or bearing other -proof that he is the son of Longfeather," said Sassacus quickly, and -with a meaning glance at his companion, "then would he find many to -support his claim."</p> - -<p>For a full minute Nahma hesitated, and the young men gazed steadfastly -at each other. Then Nahma slowly thrust a hand within his buckskin -shirt, and, drawing forth the Belt of Seven Totems, displayed it to his -companion.</p> - -<p>"Here is the Peacemaker's badge of authority,"<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_280" id="Page_280">[Pg 280]</a></span> he said, "and here also -is he who should succeed him, for I am Nahma, son of Longfeather."</p> - -<p>"I have known it, my brother," replied Sassacus, "since the moment I -saw thy face on hearing news of thy father's death, but I would not -speak till thou hadst spoken. Now, however, I gladly acknowledge thee -as my sachem, and will at once make public announcement of thy coming."</p> - -<p>"Not so," objected Nahma. "For the present, and until I can meet -Miantinomo face to face, I must be Massasoit of the Lenni Lenape. If, -however, my brother will go to Montaup with a following of his young -men, I will gladly travel in his company."</p> - -<hr /> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_281" id="Page_281">[Pg 281]</a></span></p> - -<h2><span>CHAPTER XXVII</span> <span class="smaller">A ROYAL HOME-COMING</span></h2> - -<p>By murder, treachery, fraud, and force Miantinomo the Narragansett -had finally attained the position upon which he had so long cast -envious eyes. At the death of Longfeather he had caused himself to -be proclaimed Peacemaker, or ruler of the confederated New England -tribes, in the name of his adopted father, who was now too old to take -an active part in affairs of this kind. The various stories concerning -Nahma, circulated from time to time, had not disturbed him, for did he -not know that his rival was dead? Nor had he any fear that the Belt -of Seven Totems would ever again be seen in those parts, since he had -given it to a white trader in exchange for a hatchet, and it had been -carried to that mysterious place beyond the sea from which nothing ever -returned.</p> - -<p>He had also learned with satisfaction of Sacandaga's death, for that -chieftain was the only red<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_282" id="Page_282">[Pg 282]</a></span> man who had ever seen the belt in his -possession. With all traces of his own treacherous dealings thus -wiped out, the ambitious young man had no hesitation in proclaiming -Canonicus, his father, to be Longfeather's successor by virtue of his -position as head of the strongest tribe in the confederation.</p> - -<p>Although Miantinomo was generally disliked, no person felt strong -enough to dispute this claim, and so he was sullenly accepted as -Lawgiver of the tribes. In this capacity he hastened to take possession -of Montaup, which had become the recognized seat of government.</p> - -<p>There he at once proceeded to belie his assumed character of Peacemaker -by making preparations on a large scale for invading the country of -the Iroquois. He had never forgiven them for refusing to treat with -him simply as a Narragansett, and now that he was in a position to -command a war-party equal to any they could put in the field, he -believed the time for humiliating them had come. He sent a runner to -the Hurons urging them to attack the Iroquois from the north about the -time that he proposed to<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_283" id="Page_283">[Pg 283]</a></span> cross the Shatemuc, and he imagined that -the combination thus formed would prove overpowering. He also hoped -that all this warlike activity would divert the thoughts of those who -were displeased with his usurpation of authority, and he knew that a -successful war would firmly establish his position.</p> - -<p>So Miantinomo had sent messengers to every tribe and clan of the New -England Confederacy bidding their warriors assemble at Montaup, and -already were a great number thus gathered. Among others Sassacus had -received a summons to this effect, but the fiery Pequot had determined -to disobey it and risk the consequences. Now, however, the coming of -Nahma had so changed the aspect of affairs that he gladly accepted the -invitation to present himself at Montaup accompanied by a strong body -of picked warriors.</p> - -<p>Miantinomo, who had feared that Sassacus more than any other might -rebel against his self-assumed authority, received him with effusive -hospitality.</p> - -<p>"Now do I know," he said, "that my undertaking against the arrogant -Iroquois will succeed,<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_284" id="Page_284">[Pg 284]</a></span> since they have no warriors to equal the -Pequots in bravery."</p> - -<p>"It is good that you esteem my young men so highly," replied Sassacus, -"and it is certain that they will do what may be to establish firmly -the power of the Peacemaker. I am also accompanied to Montaup by one -who will doubtless prove more welcome than all the others. He is a -medicine-man of the Saganaga, who brings to the Peacemaker a belt of -friendship from his people."</p> - -<p>"Say you so!" exclaimed Miantinomo, his dark face lighting with -pleasure, for an alliance with the Lenni Lenape of the south as well as -one with the Hurons of the north would render him invincible. "Where is -he? Why has he not already been brought to the lodge of council?"</p> - -<p>"He is an old man and weary, who secludes himself from the common gaze -in a lodge of skins that was pitched for him as soon as the canoes came -to land," replied Sassacus. "He desires not to make his message public, -since it is for your ears alone. For this reason he requests<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_285" id="Page_285">[Pg 285]</a></span> that a -new medicine-lodge be erected in which he may receive you in private -and with ceremonies befitting so important an occasion."</p> - -<p>"An old man say you?" inquired Miantinomo, doubtfully.</p> - -<p>"He has every appearance of extreme age and decrepitude."</p> - -<p>"Have you seen the belt that he bears?"</p> - -<p>"I have seen it, and know it to be a serpent-belt of the Saganaga. He -hopes also to take one from you, that his people may know his mission -to have been truly performed. If his terms be not granted, then with -his belt will he depart to the land of the Iroquois."</p> - -<p>"Without doubt I will grant all that he asks," replied Miantinomo, -hastily, "for a friendship with the Saganaga may not be thrown away. -At once shall a medicine-lodge be built, and when next the shadows are -shortest then will I meet him."</p> - -<p>"If it is your pleasure I will see to the building of the lodge," said -Sassacus.</p> - -<p>"It is my pleasure," answered the other, and with this the interview -ended.</p> - -<p>By noon of the following day the medicine-lodge, <span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_286" id="Page_286">[Pg 286]</a></span>a simple affair of -poles and bark, stood finished on the edge of a cleared space that -formed the public gathering-place of Montaup. It was a mere shell bare -of all furnishings, as was noted by the many curious persons who peeped -in at its open doorway. The news that something of absorbing interest -was to take place within it had attracted a large assemblage to its -vicinity, where they waited with eager curiosity.</p> - -<p>At the same time there was but little mingling of those belonging to -the several tribes represented. The Narragansetts, with Miantinomo -seated in front of them, were grouped by themselves close to the lodge -but a little to one side. Although they outnumbered any of the visiting -delegations, they formed but a fraction of the whole gathering.</p> - -<p>Opposite to them and equally near the lodge stood the Pequots with the -plumed head of Sassacus towering above them, and beside him stood our -old acquaintance, Samoset.</p> - -<p>The Wampanoags were there in full force supported by a large delegation -of their near relatives, the Pokanokets. Besides these were<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_287" id="Page_287">[Pg 287]</a></span> -representatives of every New England tribe that had acknowledged the -authority of Longfeather. All were warriors, armed as for battle, and -headed by their most experienced chiefs.</p> - -<p>About half an hour before the sun attained his meridian a distant -chanting of voices, accompanied by the measured beating of -medicine-drums, announced the opening of the ceremonies, and a buzz of -expectation swept over the great assembly.</p> - -<p>Then appeared a procession of medicine-men clad in fantastic garb -calculated to inspire those who beheld it with awe. Most prominent -among them was an old man enveloped in a long robe of costly furs. He -was so feeble and bent with age that he leaned heavily upon a stick and -was also supported by two attendants. Directly in front of him walked a -boy, very proud of his honorable position, and bearing in outstretched -hands the wampum serpent-belt of the Saganaga so displayed that all -might see it.</p> - -<p>The procession halted before the lodge, while its members engaged in -a medicine-dance, circling with furious gestures and wild cries about -the central figure of the old man. Precisely at the<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_288" id="Page_288">[Pg 288]</a></span> hour of noon the -dancing came to an abrupt end, and the old medicine-man, taking from -the boy who had borne it the belt of the Saganaga, entered the empty -lodge alone.</p> - -<p>For a few minutes his voice was heard in the feeble chanting of an -incantation, and then it invited the presence of the Peacemaker. Upon -this Miantinomo stepped forth without hesitation and entered the lodge, -vanishing from sight beyond its heavy curtain of double deer-skins. -The light of the interior was so dim that for a moment he could see -nothing; then he made out the form of its solitary occupant standing -before him, and holding the belt that he believed was to confirm him -in his assumed position. The old man, leaning on his stick, was still -enveloped in the long robe that covered him from head to foot.</p> - -<p>Gazing steadfastly at Miantinomo, he said, sternly,—</p> - -<p>"Why dost thou come here? I summoned Longfeather the Peacemaker."</p> - -<p>"He is dead," replied the other, "and I——"</p> - -<p>"Then should his son Nahma have come in his place," interrupted the old -man. </p> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_289" id="Page_289">[Pg 289]</a></span></p> - -<p>"He, too, is dead," said Miantinomo; "that is," he added, hastily, "he -is dead to this people, for he is a traitor and dwells in the lodges of -their enemies."</p> - -<p>"Thou, then, art authorized to fill his place?"</p> - -<p>"I am so authorized by Canonicus, my father, and will seek to wipe out -the shame cast upon the name of Longfeather by his unworthy son."</p> - -<p>"Why, then, dost thou not wear the Peacemaker's badge of authority, the -great Belt of Seven Totems?"</p> - -<p>"Because it was stolen and carried away by Nahma the renegade."</p> - -<p>"Now do I know that thou liest!" exclaimed the old man with an energy -of voice as startling as it was unexpected. "Thou knowest, better than -any other, that the son of Longfeather was foully murdered while he -slept on the farther bank of the Shatemuc. Thou knowest that his body, -stripped of its badge of authority, was flung into the river. Thou -knowest that the Belt of Seven Totems, first used to blind the eyes of -Sacandaga, was afterwards sold to a white-faced trader that it might -disappear forever beyond the salt waters.<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_290" id="Page_290">[Pg 290]</a></span> Thou knowest who first put -in circulation the false tale that the son of Longfeather was a traitor -and a renegade. Thou knowest, and I know, for such things may not be -hid from the Okis. Also will I prove to thee that the dead may live, -and that evil designs may come to naught even when they seem most -likely to succeed. Look, then, and tremble, thou dog of a murderer."</p> - -<div class="center"><a name="i297.jpg" id="i297.jpg"></a><img src="images/i297.jpg" alt="LOOK, THEN, AND TREMBLE, THOU DOG OF A MURDERER" /></div> - -<p class="bold">"LOOK, THEN, AND TREMBLE, THOU DOG OF A MURDERER"</p> - -<p>With these words the dimly outlined form of the old man straightened -into erectness, his stick fell to the ground, he flung back his -enveloping robe, and at the same moment a slab of bark dropped from the -roof of the lodge, allowing a flood of noonday sunlight to stream on -the place where he stood.</p> - -<p>For an instant Miantinomo stared dumbly at the figure, young, tall, and -handsome, richly clad and wearing across its breast the Peacemaker's -Belt of Seven Totems, that gazed sternly at him with accusing eyes. -Then, with a great cry of terror, he rushed from the lodge and fled -like one who is pursued by a deadly vengeance in the direction of the -nearest forest.</p> - -<p>As the startled assemblage, gathered to <span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_291" id="Page_291">[Pg 291]</a></span>witness his crowning triumph, -gazed after the flying figure in bewilderment, their attention was -further attracted, and they were thrilled by a shout of joyful amaze. -Instantly all eyes were again turned towards the lodge, where in place -of an old medicine-man stood a young chieftain, as noble a specimen of -his race as ever trod American soil. Depending from one shoulder was -the long-lost Belt of Seven Totems and from the other a serpent-belt of -the Saganaga. At his feet knelt Samoset, crying out that it was indeed -his brother and his master, Nahma, the son of Longfeather.</p> - -<p>"I am the son of Longfeather, and I was Nahma," said the young man, so -distinctly that all might hear. "But now and henceforth am I Massasoit -the Peacemaker."</p> - -<p>Upon this the whole assemblage, led by Sassacus and his loyal Pequots, -broke into a joyous tumult of welcome and crowded about the youth -who, so long lost to them, had been thus marvellously restored to -his rightful position. Only the Narragansetts took advantage of the -glad confusion to steal away unnoticed and follow the trail of their -dishonored leader.</p> - -<hr /> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_292" id="Page_292">[Pg 292]</a></span></p> - -<h2><span>CHAPTER XXVIII</span> <span class="smaller">IN THE COUNCIL-LODGE</span></h2> - -<p>Massasoit could not relate the whole story of his adventurous -wanderings, since no Indian known to have been a slave might afterwards -be accepted as a leader among his people. Consequently he omitted -all reference to his unhappy experiences in England. Nor did he ever -mention that he had crossed the great salt waters; but he told of -his adventures among the Iroquois, as a captive to the Hurons, while -in Quebec, and on a ship that was to have carried him into slavery -among the Yengeese of the south. He described the destruction of that -ill-fated craft, together with the loss of her company, his own welcome -at the hands of the Saganaga, and his homeward journey, to all of which -the assemblage listened with breathless attention. In conclusion, the -young chieftain said,—</p> - -<p>"I have told all there is to tell. When I left you Longfeather ruled -this land. He has gone<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_293" id="Page_293">[Pg 293]</a></span> from you never to return. I am his son, and it -was his wish that I should be Peacemaker in his place. If that be also -your desire, or if it be not, now is the time to speak. Will you have -Massasoit for your sagamore or another?"</p> - -<p>Standing very straight and gazing proudly about him, the young man -awaited an answer, and it was promptly given. First came Sassacus, -saying,—</p> - -<p>"The Pequots accept Massasoit as their Peacemaker and will listen to -his words."</p> - -<p>After him in grave procession came the chiefs to tender their -allegiance; and a few days later the venerable Canonicus came also, for -Massasoit had not told that Miantinomo had attempted to murder him, and -so the Narragansetts were not yet outcast from the federation.</p> - -<p>Thus did Massasoit occupy his father's place in the great lodge of -council, while his authority was acknowledged from the Shatemuc to the -sea, and from the country of the Mohicans to that of the Hurons, who -dwelt near the great river of the north.</p> - -<p>With his position thus established, the young<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_294" id="Page_294">[Pg 294]</a></span> sachem, leaving Sassacus -to hold Montaup during his absence, set forth on an expedition of the -utmost importance both to himself and to his people. It had three -objects: first, to find his mother, who had fled from Miantinomo; -second, to restore the peaceful relations with the Iroquois that had -been threatened by the usurper; and last, but by no means least, to -visit the lodge of Kaweras.</p> - -<p>As a following worthy of his rank he took with him one hundred -warriors, and with these he pressed forward over the trail that he -had followed as a youth three years earlier. At the village of Peace, -on the river of sweet waters, he found Miantomet, and raised her -in a moment from the dejection of a childless fugitive to a proud -motherhood, with the son, whom she had so long mourned as dead, once -more restored to her.</p> - -<p>But only for a short time might these two enjoy their reunion, for -Massasoit found that whole section of country alarmed over an invasion -of Hurons, who were said to be coming down the valley of the Shatemuc -in formidable numbers. So he pushed on, hoping to form a junction with<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_295" id="Page_295">[Pg 295]</a></span> -the Iroquois before the common enemy should arrive.</p> - -<p>The eastern Iroquois or Maquas were hard beset. Two powerful -expeditions had descended at once upon the country of the Five Nations. -One, under leadership of our old acquaintance Champlain, had crossed -Lake Ontario, penetrated deep into the territory of the Oneidas, and -was supposed to be advancing upon the Maquas from the west. Another -expedition, accompanied by three white men, was coming from the north -by way of the Shatemuc, and already were fugitives flying before -them to the palisaded villages, bringing sad tales of rapine and -destruction. As though this state of affairs were not bad enough, it -was reported that the New England tribes, led by Miantinomo, were -advancing from the east. Thus it seemed as though the Maquas were -doomed to destruction, and a feeling of despair had seized upon the -warriors gathered for the defence of their three palisaded strongholds.</p> - -<p>One night, during this unhappy condition of suspense, a group of -chief men were seated<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_296" id="Page_296">[Pg 296]</a></span> about a small fire in the council-house of -the easternmost village, gloomily discussing the situation. News had -come that the enemy was close at hand, and that the village would be -assaulted by overwhelming numbers on the morrow. So oppressed were -the councillors by the hopelessness of their situation that for some -time they sat in silence, and one among them appeared to be dozing, as -though exhausted.</p> - -<p>Suddenly this one, who was our old friend Kaweras, awoke, uttering an -exclamation of pleasure, and looked about him with smiling cheerfulness.</p> - -<p>"What pleases my brother?" asked he who sat nearest. "Has he seen a -vision of the spirit land to which all of us will go before the setting -of another sun?"</p> - -<p>"No," replied Kaweras. "It is not yet time for visions of the spirit -land."</p> - -<p>"How so, when even the youngest warrior knows that we are in no -condition to withstand an attack of the Hurons and of those armed with -thunder-sticks who accompany them?"</p> - -<p>"It is because he who is to deliver us even<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_297" id="Page_297">[Pg 297]</a></span> now approaches, and in a -vision have I seen him."</p> - -<p>"Comes he from the west, and is he the Wild-Cat of the Oneidas?"</p> - -<p>"No. He is from the east, and more powerful than the Wild-Cat or any -other single chieftain of the Iroquois. He is not of us, but he has -already fought with us. I have known him, but until now I have not -known him. Whence he comes or how he has passed our young men I know -not, but even now he is at hand. Behold, he is here!"</p> - -<p>The old man had risen to his feet in his excitement, and now stood -staring eagerly at the skin-hung entrance.</p> - -<p>As he finished speaking the curtain was drawn aside and a young -warrior stepped within the lodge. He advanced to where the firelight -fell full upon his face, and then stood motionless as though awaiting -recognition. Nor was it long in coming, for, after a moment of silence, -Kaweras stepped forward with extended hand, uttering the single word, -"Massasoit."</p> - -<p>"Yes, my father, it is Massasoit," was the <span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_298" id="Page_298">[Pg 298]</a></span>reply; but the old man -hardly noticed what was said, for his eye had fallen on a belt worn by -the new-comer, and he was studying its devices with an expression of -amazement. Finally he said, in a low tone,—</p> - -<p>"It is the Belt of Seven Totems, the great colier of the Peacemaker."</p> - -<p>"And I," responded Massasoit, "am the Peacemaker, since I was Nahma, -son of Longfeather. For thy exceeding kindness to me in other days am I -now come with a war-party to help the people of Sacandaga in their time -of trouble."</p> - -<p>"How came he inside our walls?" asked one of the chiefs, suspiciously.</p> - -<p>"That will I tell at another time," replied Massasoit. "Now there are -things of more importance to be considered."</p> - -<p>The young man did not care to acknowledge that Aeana had given him -admittance, but so it was. He had left his warriors in concealment at -some distance from the village while he went alone to discover the -exact state of affairs.</p> - -<p>That same afternoon, before warning of the<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_299" id="Page_299">[Pg 299]</a></span> near approach of the Hurons -had been given, he had seen several women go to a small stream for -water, and recognized Aeana among them. After a while he managed to -toss a small packet so that it fell at her feet. Glancing about with a -startled air, the girl picked it up, and found in it the embroidered -tinder-bag that she had concealed in her sister's gift to Massasoit -so long ago that she had almost forgotten the incident. As she gazed -at the token, hardly knowing whether to be frightened or pleased, the -low call of a wood-dove attracted her attention to a nearby thicket. -Hesitatingly she moved close enough to hear the whispered words, "Be -not afraid. I am here as a friend to help the Maquas against their -enemies; but first I would see Kaweras. At moon-setting will I come -alone to the gate, and I rely upon thee to give me admittance."</p> - -<p>Outwardly calm, but with a wildly fluttering heart, Aeana rejoined -her companions without having been for an instant out of their sight, -and returned with them to the village. There she debated long with -herself as to whether she should tell her father or Otshata of what<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_300" id="Page_300">[Pg 300]</a></span> -had happened; but, until the time of moon-setting, she had not found -courage to do so. She had not meant to admit the young warrior without -their knowledge, especially as news had come, within an hour, of the -near approach of the Hurons; but a will stronger than her own seemed -to compel her, and finally she did as Massasoit desired. Then, sadly -frightened, she whispered, "In the council-house is Kaweras," and fled -away into the darkness, leaving the young man to discover his bearings -as best he might.</p> - -<p>Having at length gained the council-lodge and being received as -already stated, Massasoit was compelled to answer many questions -before securing the confidence of all the chiefs. Little by little, -however, it was acquired. Kaweras told what he knew of him. The belt -that he wore was a potent influence; and finally one, who had been -with Sacandaga at the time of his death, recognized the young man as -he who had risked his own life to save that of the Iroquois chieftain. -After that they listened with closest attention to all he had to say. -Thus,<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_301" id="Page_301">[Pg 301]</a></span> before he left them, he had outlined a plan of operations for -the morrow, or whenever the Hurons should make an attack, that they -promised to follow.</p> - -<p>Massasoit also instructed the Iroquois as to the nature of fire-arms, -which they had heretofore regarded with all the terror of ignorance. He -described the manner in which the thunder-sticks must be loaded before -becoming effective as weapons, and assured his hearers that, after -being discharged, they were for a long time no more dangerous than so -many wooden billets. Having thus restored a cheerful confidence to the -council, the young chieftain departed and made his way to where his own -warriors anxiously awaited him.</p> - -<p>Immediately upon rejoining these, and without pausing to rest, he led -them on a long detour, so that, before daylight, they had gained a -position in the rear of the Hurons, by whom the presence of the young -Peacemaker was as yet unsuspected.</p> - -<p>With the rising of the sun hundreds of dark forms might have been seen -gliding stealthily from tree to tree in the direction of the Maqua<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_302" id="Page_302">[Pg 302]</a></span> -village. At a short interval behind the last of these came another -group moving in the same direction, but with even greater caution. -Foremost among them was Massasoit, leading his people in an enterprise -that would make or mar his own reputation for all future time.</p> - -<p>Suddenly the morning stillness of the forest was rudely broken by the -roar of three muskets fired in quick succession, and the battle was -begun.</p> - -<hr /> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_303" id="Page_303">[Pg 303]</a></span></p> - -<h2><span>CHAPTER XXIX</span> <span class="smaller">WINNING A BATTLE, A WIFE, AND A FRIEND</span></h2> - -<p>Upon the advice of Massasoit, the Iroquois had set up dummies to draw -the musket-fire of the enemy; also most of their young men had been -placed in ambush outside the walls. These, though few in number as -compared with the advancing host of Hurons, sprang to their feet with -frightful yells and rushed towards the place marked by the smoke of the -now empty muskets. They seemed doomed to certain destruction, and the -Hurons calmly awaited their coming. All at once, and without warning, a -flight of arrows from the rear brought a score of the invaders to the -ground, and at the same moment the woods behind them seemed alive with -yelling foemen.</p> - -<p>For a few minutes the bewildered Hurons, thus entrapped, fought -desperately. Then the three white men, who were objects of Massasoit's -especial vengeance, were killed while <span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_304" id="Page_304">[Pg 304]</a></span>hurriedly endeavoring to reload -their muskets. As they fell their savage allies, who had until now -regarded them as invincible, broke into a panic-stricken flight, each -man endeavoring only to save himself. After them raced Massasoit and -his warriors, together with the jubilant Iroquois, and many and fierce -were the hand-to-hand conflicts that took place in the dim forest -coverts that day. At its close, when the wearied but exultant victors -gathered once more at the wildly rejoicing village, their trophies of -scalps and prisoners outnumbered their combined forces.</p> - -<p>The following week was devoted to the wildest forms of savage -festivity, and the rejoicings were redoubled near its close by the -arrival of a runner from the west, bringing the great news that the -other invading force under Champlain had been defeated and driven back -by the Onondagas and Oneidas.</p> - -<p>In all this time of feasting Massasoit was the hero and central figure. -Not only had he saved the Maqua village and probably the whole tribe -from destruction, but, on that day of fighting, he had proved himself -the foremost warrior of his<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_305" id="Page_305">[Pg 305]</a></span> people and had brought in more Huron -scalps than any other.</p> - -<p>He found no difficulty in forming a compact with the Iroquois on behalf -of his own people, by which both were bound not to cross the Shatemuc -except for friendly visits. Thus our young chieftain would have been -supremely happy but for one thing, and that was his treatment at the -hands of Aeana.</p> - -<p>This girl, who now seemed the most beautiful and desirable of all -earthly creatures, behaved to him in a manner so strange that he could -in no wise account for it. Not only did she refuse to grant him an -interview, but she studiously avoided meeting him, and went no longer -with the other women to the stream for water. Thus he had not been able -to exchange a single word with her, and as the time for his departure -drew near he was in despair. In his distress he sought out Otshata, as -he had done once before, and, pouring out his heart, asked her what he -should do.</p> - -<p>Otshata laughed in his face. "What fools men be!" she said. "Dost thou -not remember, Massasoit, the time when she bade thee fetch water?" </p> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_306" id="Page_306">[Pg 306]</a></span></p> - -<p>"Well do I remember."</p> - -<p>"And thou performed the service?"</p> - -<p>"Truly, I did, even as she bade me."</p> - -<p>"And she scorned the offering when it was brought to her?"</p> - -<p>"Even so, and taunted me with the name of 'squaw.'"</p> - -<p>"Remembering that, art thou still at a loss to know why she now refuses -to meet thee?"</p> - -<p>"To my confusion, I am," replied the puzzled youth.</p> - -<p>At this Otshata laughed again long and heartily; but at length she -asked,—</p> - -<p>"Didst thou ever know a woman to accept friendship with a slave when a -master might be had?"</p> - -<p>Then, still laughing, she ran away, leaving the young man to ponder her -words.</p> - -<p>As a result of this conversation, Massasoit announced that he and his -warriors would depart for their own country on the morrow, and at -daylight of the next morning they had disappeared. That day Aeana, -heavy-hearted and with lagging step, went with the other women<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_307" id="Page_307">[Pg 307]</a></span> -for water. As she bent over the stream an exclamation from one of -her companions caused her to look up and directly into the eyes of -Massasoit, who stood on the opposite bank.</p> - -<p>With a shrill cry of dismay, Aeana turned and fled towards the village; -but, swiftly as she ran, Massasoit overtook her ere she had covered -half the distance. Seizing her in his arms, he picked her up and, -despite her struggles, bore her swiftly away. On the edge of the wood -he paused to utter a far-carrying yell of triumph, and then, still -bearing his precious burden, he disappeared amid the leafy shadows.</p> - -<p>But his defiant challenge was answered, and half a dozen young -Iroquois, all of whom were aspirants for the hand of the arrow-maker's -beautiful daughter, dashed forth in hot pursuit. This race for a bride -was over a forest course something more than a mile in length. At its -farther end was the Shatemuc and a waiting canoe containing a single -occupant. As Massasoit gained this and it was shoved off, the foremost -of his pursuers was so close that he fell into the water in a vain -effort to grasp the elusive craft. </p> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_308" id="Page_308">[Pg 308]</a></span></p> - -<p>Beyond the river the Iroquois might not pass by the terms of their -recent treaty, and thus on its farther side, Massasoit felt his prize -to be as secure as though he already had her at Montaup.</p> - -<p>As they stepped out on the land that acknowledged the son of -Longfeather to be its ruler, Aeana regarded the bold youth with eyes -that laughed even through their tears, and said, "I hate you; but if -you had not done it, then should I have despised you forever."</p> - -<p>So Massasoit won his bride, and in far-away Montaup, beside the great -salt waters that bathe the rising sun, no woman led a happier life than -did the daughter of Kaweras.</p> - -<p>After this several years were passed in peaceful content by those -New England tribes owning the rule of Massasoit. With his superior -knowledge of the world he was able to teach them many things that -caused them to prosper as never before. Only was he worried by the -Narragansetts, who, while sullenly admitting his authority, awaited -eagerly an opportunity to renounce and defy it.</p> - -<p>In the mean time Aeana had presented the<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_309" id="Page_309">[Pg 309]</a></span> Peacemaker with two sons, the -younger of whom, named Metacomet, was to become famous in after-years -as King Philip.</p> - -<p>With all his peace and apparent security Massasoit had one ever-present -fear, and it was of the white man. He had a knowledge greater than any -of his people concerning the number and power of these dwellers beyond -the sea, and he dreaded lest they should seek to obtain a foothold in -his country, as they had already done both on the St. Lawrence and the -James. As one measure of precaution against this he issued orders to -every New England tribe that they should hold no intercourse with any -whites attempting to trade on the coast. So determined was he to carry -out this policy that when an unfortunate French trading vessel was -wrecked on a shore of Massachusetts Bay, he caused her to be burned, -and commanded that all survivors of her crew be put to death.</p> - -<p>Holding these views, Massasoit became very angry when it was reported -to him that the Narragansetts, in defiance of his authority, were -actively trading with an English ship that had <span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_310" id="Page_310">[Pg 310]</a></span>appeared on their -coast, and he at once determined to make an example that should be -remembered.</p> - -<p>A runner was despatched to his trusted ally Sassacus, whose country -lay beyond that of the Narragansetts, ordering the Pequots to advance -from the west until they should meet Massasoit coming from the opposite -direction. Then, gathering a strong force from the tribes near at hand, -the Peacemaker set forth for the scene of unlawful trading.</p> - -<p>So demoralized were the Narragansetts by the simultaneous appearance of -two powerful war-parties within their borders that they offered only a -slight resistance before fleeing to their palisaded stronghold, where -they anxiously awaited the expected attack.</p> - -<p>In the mean time the captain of the English vessel, which was snugly -anchored in the mouth of a small river, where he had been carrying on a -brisk and most profitable trade with the Indians, was disgusted to have -it suddenly cease. For days a fleet of canoes had surrounded his ship. -Now not one was to be seen, nor could any of the natives be discovered -on shore. His recent<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_311" id="Page_311">[Pg 311]</a></span> great success had been largely due to the fact -that he had on board an English-speaking Indian, through whom all -negotiations had been conducted. When a whole day had passed without -change in the situation the captain consulted with this Indian, and -asked what he supposed had become of the natives.</p> - -<p>"They be fearful to come off since they have learn that you steal red -men for slaves," was the answer.</p> - -<p>"Ho, ho! Is that all? But think you, Squanto, that they have any furs -left?"</p> - -<p>"Me think they keep back many of the best."</p> - -<p>"By the Lord Harry! Then must we go to them, since they are afraid to -come to us. Boat away, there! And, Squanto, you may come too if you -will promise to make no attempt at escape."</p> - -<p>"These be not my people," replied the Indian, evasively.</p> - -<p>"That's so. I picked you up at a great distance from here. But never -mind. If you serve me truly perhaps I will take you back there some -day. Attempt to play me false, though, and I will<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_312" id="Page_312">[Pg 312]</a></span> kill you as I would -a rat. Tumble in, then, and let us hie ashore."</p> - -<p>It was a strong boat's crew and heavily armed that thus made a landing -in search of the trade which no longer came to their ship, and they -followed a plainly marked trail leading from the beach to the place -where had been an Indian village. Now it was deserted and void of life, -though their guide announced that it had been occupied as recently as a -few hours before.</p> - -<p>While the new-comers were prowling about with hopes of discovering -something in the way of plunder, their attention was distracted by a -column of smoke rising in the direction of their boat. They had left -it hauled partially out of the water and in charge of two well-armed -men. Now, hastening back, they were panic-stricken by the discovery -that the boat was in flames. It was also badly crushed, as though it -had been lifted bodily and dropped on a ledge of sharp rocks. Worst of -all, it contained the dead bodies of those who had been left on guard. -The weapons of both men were missing, and they had been scalped but not -otherwise mutilated. </p> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_313" id="Page_313">[Pg 313]</a></span></p> - -<p>Taking advantage of the confusion following this discovery, the Indian -guide dove into a nearby thicket and disappeared. A minute later, -while the whites were huddled about their burning boat attempting to -extinguish the flames, a great flight of arrows, that seemed to come -from every direction at once, instantly killed more than half their -number. Then came a rush of yelling savages, and in another minute but -one man was left alive. He was wounded, but his life had been spared by -the express order of Massasoit.</p> - -<p>The Indian guide had been made prisoner, bound, and left to himself; -but now that all was over, the young leader, ordering his warriors to -remain behind, went to him. Stooping, he severed the prisoner's bonds -and assisted him to his feet. Then gazing steadily at him, he cried in -a voice that trembled with emotion,—</p> - -<p>"Tasquanto, my brother, dost thou not remember Massasoit?"</p> - -<hr /> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_314" id="Page_314">[Pg 314]</a></span></p> - -<h2><span>CHAPTER XXX</span> <span class="smaller">THE PILGRIMS OF PLYMOUTH</span></h2> - -<p>Since being separated from Massasoit years before in Plymouth harbor, -Tasquanto, whose name the English had shortened to "Squanto," had known -nothing of the fate of his fellow-captive beyond that he had been sold -as a slave in London. In the mean time he had been received into the -household of Sir Ferdinando Gorges, Governor of Plymouth, who had large -interests in the New World, and had been taught to speak English. Then -he was sent on trading-vessels to act as interpreter between whites and -Indians. In this capacity he had made several voyages to America, but -always so closely guarded that never until now had he been allowed to -set foot on his native shores.</p> - -<p>Tasquanto was so overcome at finding in the great sachem Massasoit, -concerning whom he had heard much, his own long-lost friend that<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_315" id="Page_315">[Pg 315]</a></span> -for a few moments he was speechless with joyful amazement. When he -had succeeded in partially expressing this, he related briefly how -he happened to be in his present situation, and added that the cruel -taskmaster from whom he had just escaped was the same Captain Dermer -who had formerly betrayed them into slavery.</p> - -<p>"I knew it when first I saw him this morning," replied Massasoit, -grimly, "for his evil face has ever been pictured in my heart. For that -reason have I spared his worthless life until I could consult with -thee, my brother, as to how we may best deal with him."</p> - -<p>"Did you, then, know me also?" asked Tasquanto.</p> - -<p>"The moment I set eyes on thee. Those white dogs had been slain an hour -sooner but for thy presence among them and a fear of doing thee harm. -Now, what say you? Shall this man be delivered to the tormentors, or -shall he be killed where he lies? It is certain that his punishment -must be great, for he has earned all that may be given. Also I do not -care that he should recognize me and spread the report that I was<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_316" id="Page_316">[Pg 316]</a></span> once -his slave, for that would shame me in the eyes of my people. Thou, too, -must ever keep secret the matter of my having crossed the salt waters."</p> - -<p>"I will remember," replied Tasquanto. "As for this white man, I would -crop his ears with the same brand of ownership that he has placed upon -many an Indian captured and sold into slavery. Then would I let him -sail away in his own ship as a warning to all other white men. Death he -deserves, since he has treated many of our people to death and worse, -but to him the shame of cropped ears will be even more bitter than -death."</p> - -<p>So favorably was Massasoit impressed with this idea that he ordered it -carried out at once. Thus, half an hour later, the brutal Dermer, who -had done so much to cause the name of Englishman to be hated in the -New World, was set adrift in a canoe, minus both his ears, and allowed -to depart to his own ship. It is recorded in history that he reached -Virginia, where he soon afterwards died from wounds received at the -hands of New England savages.</p> - -<p>Having thus satisfactorily concluded one part of his undertaking, -Massasoit next turned his<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_317" id="Page_317">[Pg 317]</a></span> attention to the rebel Narragansetts. -Moving his entire force against their stronghold, he demanded that all -goods received from the English should be delivered up, and also that -Miantinomo should come to his camp, bringing a chief's belt in token -of submission. Massasoit swore that, in case his demands were refused, -he would not depart from that place until every rebel in the fort was -destroyed. So mild were these terms in comparison with what had been -expected that they were instantly accepted, and a cruel war between -neighbors was averted.</p> - -<p>With peace thus restored, the authority of Massasoit over the great -territory, already named New England by Captain John Smith, was so -firmly established that until the day of his death it was never again -questioned.</p> - -<p>But if one of his two chief causes for anxiety was thus removed, the -other was looming ominously near. Some six months after Tasquanto's -escape from his long captivity a little English ship, buffeted by -winter gales of the North Atlantic, was slowly approaching the American -coast. Although only of one hundred and fifty<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_318" id="Page_318">[Pg 318]</a></span> tons' burden, or about -the size of a small coasting schooner of to-day, she carried one -hundred passengers besides her crew and an immense quantity of freight.</p> - -<p>For three months had her passengers—men, women, and children—been on -board the overcrowded little craft, and they were sick for a sight of -land. Their destination was the mouth of the Shatemuc or Hudson River, -but their first landfall, made under a cold December sky, was the bluff -headland, stretching far out to sea like a beckoning finger, that -Gosnold, some twenty years earlier, had named the Cape of Cods. From -here the ship was headed southward towards her destination, but soon -became involved in a labyrinth of shoals covered with roaring breakers. -Also she was beaten by adverse gales until her weary company hailed -with joy her captain's decision to run back to the safe shelter of Cape -Cod. Here, in what is now the harbor of Provincetown, the sea-worn -strangers disembarked, so profoundly happy at finding themselves once -more on land that the wooded wilderness seemed a paradise. </p> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_319" id="Page_319">[Pg 319]</a></span></p> - -<p>They had come to establish homes in the New World, and though -disappointed at not gaining the more southerly latitude for which they -had set out, they now determined to remain where they were, since it -was too late in the season for further explorations. Still, they spent -two weeks in examination of the country close at hand, and finally -selected a site for settlement across the bay enclosed by Cape Cod. -Here was a good harbor, plenty of fresh water, and much land already -cleared of forest growth by its former Indian occupants.</p> - -<p>They named this place "Plymouth" after the last English port from which -they had sailed, and on Christmas day began the work of building houses.</p> - -<p>During that winter half of these stout-hearted settlers died, so that -in the early spring only fifty persons, enfeebled by the sickness from -which but seven had wholly escaped, remained to make good their claim -to the land they had thus seized.</p> - -<p>During all this time the colonists had not encountered any of the -native owners of the<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_320" id="Page_320">[Pg 320]</a></span> soil, though they had caught occasional glimpses -of vanishing forms, and often saw signal-fires or smokes that denoted -the presence of watchful observers.</p> - -<p>In spite of these things they did not hesitate to appropriate Indian -property wherever they found it. Thus, when they discovered hidden -stores of corn and parched acorns, laid by for winter use, they -promptly removed them to Plymouth. Also whenever they ran across an -Indian lodge, they took from it everything that seemed to them of -value. They even robbed Indian graves of their sacred relics, and these -things were reported to Massasoit by his scouts.</p> - -<p>From the first appearance of the <i>Mayflower</i> on the stormy horizon he -had known of all its movements. He had been relieved when it started -southward, and was greatly disturbed by its return to Cape Cod. He -was also much puzzled to account for the doings of its company, since -evidently they were neither traders nor fishermen. Why had they brought -women and children with them? Also why had they in the first place -attempted to sail to the southward, if<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_321" id="Page_321">[Pg 321]</a></span> his country was the place -they were seeking? He finally decided that they must be bound for the -Virginia settlement of white men, and were only waiting until the -winter storms were over before resuming their voyage to the country of -Powhatan.</p> - -<p>This decision eased Massasoit's mind, for, while he was determined that -no whites should settle within his boundaries, he was also averse to -unnecessary bloodshed. So he awaited patiently the departure that he -believed the strangers would make with the coming of warmer weather. -If they did not so depart, he knew that he could wipe them out of -existence as easily as he could crush a worm that came in his path.</p> - -<p>Thus forbearing to disturb them, he waited and watched, receiving -almost daily reports from his scouts, who at all times lurked in the -vicinity of the feeble settlement. He heard with grim satisfaction of -their rapid decrease in numbers, and grew wroth at their violation of -Indian graves and their appropriation of unguarded Indian property. -Still he forbore to molest them, but<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_322" id="Page_322">[Pg 322]</a></span> as spring drew near he sent -Samoset to learn how soon they intended to depart.</p> - -<p>To his dismay this messenger brought back word that the English had no -intention of ever again leaving the place where they had established -themselves.</p> - -<p>"Then must I remind them that I have no desire for their presence," -quoth Massasoit, and at once he sent out runners to gather a large -force of warriors in the vicinity of Plymouth. Accompanied by a -body-guard of sixty men, the sachem himself hastened to the place of -rendezvous and established a camp, from which he sent Tasquanto among -the whites to learn in detail their strength and intentions.</p> - -<p>With his ready command of English and his knowledge of white men's -customs, gained by painful experience, Tasquanto or "Squanto," as he -now called himself, found no difficulty in gaining all the information -he desired from the strangers. He even learned their names and the -relative rank held by their leading men.</p> - -<p>When Tasquanto returned and reported these things, he mentioned one -name that caused <span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_323" id="Page_323">[Pg 323]</a></span>Massasoit to start and betray symptoms of great -agitation.</p> - -<p>"Art thou certain that one among them is so called?" he asked.</p> - -<p>"I am certain," replied Tasquanto.</p> - -<p>"Then go quickly and ask that man, as he values his own life and that -of his people, to meet me alone by the big pine that looks down upon -his lodges. I will be there unaccompanied. Stay! Take to him this belt -that it may be to him a token of safe-conduct and true speaking."</p> - -<p>With this Massasoit removed from his own person the great Belt of Seven -Totems and handed it to Tasquanto. He also instructed the latter to -withdraw beyond earshot when he had conducted the white man to the -place of meeting.</p> - -<p>Half an hour later Massasoit, with unpainted face and simply clad, -stood alone at the foot of the great pine, looking down on the group -of poor little huts that sheltered the feeble English remnant. Within -a mile of the place were gathered five hundred warriors awaiting but a -signal from him to utterly destroy the helpless settlement. </p> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_324" id="Page_324">[Pg 324]</a></span></p> - -<p>Then to him came an Englishman, young, sturdy, and heavily bearded. -As he approached within a few paces he halted and examined the Indian -curiously, for he had been told that he was to meet a sachem who was -ruler of many tribes.</p> - -<p>On the other hand, Massasoit gazed into the bearded face of the white -man with an eagerness that was almost disconcerting. Then, as though -satisfied with his scrutiny, he extended a hand, exclaiming as he did -so,—</p> - -<p>"Winslow! My frien' Winslow!"</p> - -<p>For a moment the other hesitated, then his face lighted joyously as he -grasped the proffered hand in both of his, crying,—</p> - -<p>"Massasoit? They told me the name of the mighty chieftain was -Massasoit, but never did I suspect that he was the friend whom I had -found and lost in London."</p> - -<p>For an hour the two, thus strangely brought together after years of -distant wanderings, held converse with each other while the fate of the -New World hung upon their words. When their conversation was finally -ended, Winslow had promised never to reveal the fact that the proud<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_325" id="Page_325">[Pg 325]</a></span> -sachem had once been bought and sold as a slave in England. He had also -promised that the colony to which he belonged should never commit an -act of aggression against the people of Massasoit, but that his friends -should be their friends and his enemies their enemies.</p> - -<p>On his part, and out of an abounding gratitude for the only friendship -shown him at a time when he stood most in need of friends, Massasoit -agreed that the poor little English settlement should be allowed to -exist, and, moreover, promised to protect it from its enemies to the -full extent of his power.</p> - -<p>Then the two parted, the one to go back to his wondering warriors -and dismiss them to their homes, the other to carry the glad news -into Plymouth that the great Massasoit was ready to make a treaty of -friendly alliance with his English neighbors.</p> - -<p>So on the morrow Governor Carver, accompanied by Winslow, sturdy Myles -Standish, and others of his principal men, met Massasoit. Then, after -much feasting and an exchange of courtesies, they mutually signed a -treaty of friend<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_326" id="Page_326">[Pg 326]</a></span>ship that remained unbroken for upward of half a -century from that memorable date.</p> - -<p>Thus was the crumb of bread once cast upon troubled waters by Edward -Winslow returned to him again with a thousand-fold of increase after -many days.</p> - -<p>Thus also did Nahma, son of Longfeather, now become Massasoit, wearer -of the Belt of Seven Totems, make possible and establish forever the -white man's settlement of New England.</p> - -<p class="center">* * * * * *</p> - -<p>N. B. When the good ship <i>Mayflower</i> returned to England from that her -most memorable voyage to the New World she bore in her cargo a packet -of richest furs, together with many specimens of dainty beadwork, -consigned to Lady Betty Effingham, who dwelt near to Bristol, England, -with goodly wishes from her friend and humble servant, Massasoit.</p> - -<p> </p> -<p> </p> -<hr /> -<p> </p> -<p> </p> - -<div class ="mynote"><p class="center">Transcriber's Note:<br /><br /> -Obvious typographic errors have been corrected.<br /></p></div> - - - -<p> </p> -<p> </p> -<hr class="pgx" /> -<p>***END OF THE PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK THE BELT OF SEVEN TOTEMS***</p> -<p>******* This file should be named 62684-h.htm or 62684-h.zip *******</p> -<p>This and all associated files of various formats will be found in:<br /> -<a href="http://www.gutenberg.org/dirs/6/2/6/8/62684">http://www.gutenberg.org/6/2/6/8/62684</a></p> -<p> -Updated editions will replace the previous one--the old editions will -be renamed.</p> - -<p>Creating the works from print editions not protected by U.S. copyright -law 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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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. If you are not located in the United States, you'll have -to check the laws of the country where you are located before using this ebook. - - - - -Title: The Belt of Seven Totems - A Story of Massasoit - - -Author: Kirk Munroe - - - -Release Date: July 17, 2020 [eBook #62684] - -Language: English - -Character set encoding: ISO-646-US (US-ASCII) - - -***START OF THE PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK THE BELT OF SEVEN TOTEMS*** - - -E-text prepared by Martin Pettit and the Online Distributed Proofreading -Team (http://www.pgdp.net) from page images generously made available by -Internet Archive (https://archive.org) - - - -Note: Project Gutenberg also has an HTML version of this - file which includes the original illustrations. - See 62684-h.htm or 62684-h.zip: - (http://www.gutenberg.org/files/62684/62684-h/62684-h.htm) - or - (http://www.gutenberg.org/files/62684/62684-h.zip) - - - Images of the original pages are available through - Internet Archive. See - https://archive.org/details/beltofseventotem00munr - - - - - -THE BELT OF SEVEN TOTEMS - -Ninth Impression - - - * * * * * * - -_BOOKS BOYS LIKE_ - -_PIRATES OF THE DELAWARE_ -By RUPERT SARGENT HOLLAND - A stirring tale of Philadelphia a hundred years ago when highwaymen - rode out of the shadows on the way to the Green Anchor Inn and - mysterious craft lay in hiding off the Delaware Capes. Attractively - illustrated. - -_HERO TALES OF OUR NAVY_ -By GEORGE GIBBS - Famous sea victories from the time the first little American-built - frigate sailed out against a British man-o'-war to the days when - the Allied fleet patrolled the North Sea. 14 Illustrations by the - author. - -_DO IT YOURSELF_ -By DAN BEARD - A book of the big outdoors. How to pitch a tent, how to fish, build - a canoe, take a collection hike, catch wild animals and many other - things a scout must know. Latest volume in Dan Beard's Woodcraft - Series. 306 Inimitable sketches by the author. - -_AMERICAN TRAIL BLAZERS_ - A splendid collection of stories, based on historical facts, - which has done much to revive the early and adventurous phases of - American history for boys. The story grips and the history sticks. - Each volume finely illustrated in color and black and white. - - * * * * * * - - -[Illustration: HE WAS SEIZED BY TWO PAIR OF BRAWNY HANDS AND DRAGGED -INBOARD Page 193] - - -THE BELT OF SEVEN TOTEMS - -A Story of Massasoit - -by - -KIRK MUNROE - -Author of "Under the Great Bear," "Brethren of the -Coast," "Rick Dale," "Forward March," -"The 'Mates'' Series," etc. - -Illustrated by Emlen Mcconnell - - -[Illustration: Logo] - - - - - - -Philadelphia & London -J. B. Lippincott Company - -Copyright, 1901, by Kirk Munroe - -Printed by J. B. Lippincott Company -at the Washington Square Press -Philadelphia, U. S. A. - - - - -_TO MY READERS_ - - -The following story is not intended as a history; it is merely an -effort to reconcile certain apparently conflicting facts and to explain -an otherwise inexplicable situation. At the time of the Pilgrim Fathers -all American Indians--not excepting those of New England--had suffered -repeated outrage at the hands of white men, and in no case had they -been given cause to love the invaders of their country or to welcome -their presence. Why, then, did the powerful Massasoit permit a white -invasion of his territory that he could so easily have crushed? A -friendship existed from the very first between him and Edward Winslow, -and the latter seems to have exercised a great influence over the -New England sachem. What was the origin of this friendship? The -Narragansetts, while submitting to Massasoit's authority, were always -in sullen opposition to it. Why? It is to answer these questions to my -own satisfaction that I have constructed the theory herewith advanced. - -Many New England natives were kidnapped and taken to various parts -of Europe. Why might not Massasoit have been among them? The wampum -belt, on which was pictured the distinguishing totems of seven leading -New England clans, was worn by both Massasoit and Metacomet (King -Philip), his son, and is still in existence. Tasquanto (Squanto) was -kidnapped from Cape Cod and taken to England, where he remained for -several years. Captain Dermer carried a number of native Americans to -London, where he sold them to be exhibited as curiosities. He finally -died of wounds received at the hands of New England Indians. Champlain -did aid a war-party of Hurons to defeat the Iroquois in one instance, -and in another was defeated by the same foe. Thus, while my story is -admittedly fictional, it has a substantial historical basis. - -KIRK MUNROE. - - - - -_CONTENTS_ - -CHAPTER PAGE - I. THE VILLAGE OF PEACE 9 - - II. CANONICUS MAKES TROUBLE 18 - - III. AT THE CROSSING OF THE SHA 28 - - IV. THE BELT CHANGES HANDS 38 - - V. WHAT THE DAUGHTERS OF KAWERAS FOUND 50 - - VI. IN THE LODGE OF THE ARROW-MAKER 60 - - VII. NAHMA JOINS A WAR-PARTY 70 - - VIII. TWO YOUNG SCOUTS 81 - - IX. ON THE LAKE 91 - - X. AN OKI OF THE WATERS 101 - - XI. THE COMING OF SACANDAGA 111 - - XII. A MEETING OF DEADLY FOES 121 - - XIII. TO THE LODGES OF THE WHITE MAN 131 - - XIV. TWO INMATES OF A GUARD-HOUSE 141 - - XV. THE BITTER WINTER OF CANADA 151 - - XVI. A DASH FOR LIBERTY 162 - - XVII. A DEATH-DEALING THUNDER-STICK 172 - - XVIII. KIDNAPPED 183 - - XIX. SOLD AS A SLAVE 194 - - XX. ONE FRIENDLY FACE 206 - - XXI. A CHANGE OF MASTERS 217 - - XXII. NAHMA AND THE BEAR RUN AW 228 - - XXIII. AN HONORED GUEST 238 - - XXIV. NAHMA REMEMBERS 248 - - XXV. BACK TO AMERICA 259 - - XXVI. SASSACUS THE PEQUOT 270 - - XXVII. A ROYAL HOME-COMING 281 - -XXVIII. IN THE COUNCIL-LODGE 292 - - XXIX. WINNING A BATTLE, A WIFE, AND A FRIEND 303 - - XXX. THE PILGRIMS OF PLYMOUTH 314 - - - - -_LIST OF ILLUSTRATIONS_ - - PAGE -HE WAS SEIZED BY TWO PAIR OF BRAWNY HANDS AND DRAGGED -INBOARD _Frontispiece._ - -AS SHE CAUGHT A GLIMPSE OF THE WOUNDED YOUTH THE PROGRESS -OF THE CANOE WAS INSTANTLY ARRESTED 56 - -NAHMA SPRANG UPON THE WHITE MAN WITH UPLIFTED KNIFE 129 - -"LOOK, THEN, AND TREMBLE, THOU DOG OF A MURDERER" 290 - - - - -_THE BELT OF SEVEN TOTEMS_ - - - - -CHAPTER I - -THE VILLAGE OF PEACE - - -In the olden days when the whole land belonged to the red man the -village of Longfeather the Peacemaker was located on the river of Sweet -Waters, nearly one hundred miles, as the crow flies, from the place -where it flows into the sea. Its ruler was Longfeather, the only son -of Nassaup, sachem of the Wampanoags, and a man wise enough to realize -that peace was better for his people than war. So he had sent his only -son, when still a mere youth, to one after another of the surrounding -tribes that he might learn their language and establish friendships -among them. Thus Longfeather had lived for months at a time among -all the tribes dwelling east of the Shatemuc and the country of the -terrible Iroquois. He had travelled as far north as the land of the -Abenakis, from whom he learned to make snow-shoes and to construct -canoes of birchen bark. He had visited the Nipmucks and Nausets of the -eastern coast, who taught him many secrets of the salt waters from -which they gained their living. He had journeyed to the southward, -spending a year with the Narragansetts and another with the Pequots, -the wampum-making tribes. Then for a long time he had remained with the -warlike Mohicans, whose great chieftain Tamenand loved him as a son, -and taught him from his own wisdom until Longfeather became wisest of -all Indians dwelling in the region afterwards known as New England. - -So many seasons of corn-planting and harvest did the youth spend in -travel and study among the tribes, that when he finally turned his -face towards his own people he was become a man in years as well as in -stature and strength. So it happened that he tarried again among the -Pequots until he had won for a bride Miantomet, a daughter of their -sachem. The principal industry of this tribe being the production of -wampum, which was made in the form of cylindrical beads, white, black, -purple, and sometimes red, cut from sea-shells, Longfeather's bride was -presented with a vast store of this precious material in the form of -strings and belts, so that in winning her the young man also acquired -much wealth. - -To fittingly celebrate the home-coming of his son, Nassaup commanded a -great feast that should last for seven days, and to it were invited the -headmen of all the tribes in which Longfeather had made friends. The -place chosen for this notable gathering was the mouth of a beautiful -valley, centrally located for the convenience of the several tribes, -and gently sloping to the river of Sweet Waters. Here, then, in early -autumn, at the full of the harvest moon, were gathered hundreds of -the leading sannups of the wide-spread territory bounded by the great -white river (St. Lawrence) on the north, the salt waters that bathe -the rising sun on the east and south, and the Shatemuc (Hudson) on the -west. These, together with their families, formed an assemblage larger -and more important than any that could be recalled even by tradition, -and while much of their time was devoted to feasting and dancing, they -also discussed questions of great significance. - -One of these was the meaning of a vast ball of fire, that, brighter -than the sun and glowing with many colors, had shot athwart an evening -sky on the night of Longfeather's marriage to Miantomet. To some this -phenomenon portended evil, while to others it was an omen of good -promise; but all were convinced that it was connected in some way with -the fortunes of Longfeather. - -Another matter discussed early and late with unflagging interest was -the rumored appearance in remote regions of a race of beings having -human form, but unlike any heretofore known. They were said to have -white skins and hairy faces, and were believed to control thunder and -lightning, which they used for the destruction of all who came in their -way. Some of them were also described as bestriding fire-breathing -monsters of such ferocity that they carried death and destruction -wherever they went. Most of these rumors came from the south and from -lands so remote that they had been many months travelling from tribe -to tribe and from mouth to mouth. Whether the beings thus imperfectly -described were gods or devils none could tell. At the same time those -who heard of them agreed that in spite of their form they could not be -human, for were not all men made in one likeness, with red skins, black -hair, and smooth faces? - -It was disquieting that, while most of these rumors came from the -far-distant south, some of them also came from the north, and located -the white-skinned strangers not more than a month's journey away. At -the same time it was comforting to have all stories agree that, while -they appeared from the ocean borne on the backs of vast winged monsters -of the deep, they always, after a while, disappeared again as they had -come. - -Longfeather further reassured those who discussed these matters by -relating a tradition that he had received from Tamenand. It concerned -other supernatural visitants who had once come even to the land of the -Wampanoags; but so long ago that not even the great-grandfather of the -oldest man living had seen them. They also were described as of white -skin and having hair on their faces. It was not told that they rode -fire-breathing dragons, or that they were armed with thunderbolts, but -they had come from the sea and returned into it again when they were -ready for departure. To be sure, they had slain many of the native -dwellers and caused great fear throughout the land, but after going -away they had never again been seen. To this day, however, traces of -their visitation remained in the form of certain pictured rocks that -they had inscribed, and which no man might remove or even touch, under -penalty of death. - -The simple-minded forest-dwellers listened to these tales with the same -dread that would inspire us of to-day upon hearing that inhabitants of -some distant planet, bringing death-dealing weapons that were unknown -to us, had invaded the world. They shuddered, gazing furtively about -them as they listened, and drew closer together as though for mutual -protection. Although the fears thus aroused sobered the red-skinned -assemblage and left it in small humor for further festivities, -this was not regretted by Nassaup, since it rendered them the more -willing to listen to a plan that he wished to propose. It was one so -long considered that it had become the chief desire of his life, and -was nothing more nor less than a federation of all the tribes there -represented, in the interests of peace, mutual aid, and protection. -For two days was this proposition discussed, and then it was accepted. -A belt of wampum, on which was worked his own totem, was given to -each of the seven head chiefs present, and a great belt of the same -material, in which the seven totems were combined, was presented to -Longfeather. On account of his wisdom he had been unanimously chosen -to rule the allied tribes, and this Belt of Seven Totems was the badge -of his authority. So Longfeather became Peacemaker and Lawgiver to all -that region, and on account of its central location he established his -official head-quarters upon the very spot where the great assemblage -had been held. Thus was founded the village of Peace, in which all -questions affecting relations between the tribes were discussed and -treaties were made. It was a place of refuge to which all persons -accused of wrong-doing and in danger of their lives might flee, with a -certainty of protection until their cases could be considered by the -Peacemaker. It also became a trading-point to which were attracted the -skilled makers of such articles as were most in demand among the tribes. - -Large areas of nearby lands were brought under cultivation, and these, -fertilized with fish taken in quantities from the teeming river, -produced wonderful crops of beans, maize, and pumpkins. No war-parties -ever visited the village of Peace, but there was a constant coming -and going of strangers. To it travelled the Abenakis, bringing furs, -maple-sugar, and highly prized ornaments of copper that had come to -them from the far west. Here they exchanged these things for bales of -dried fish from the eastern coast, seal-skins, or belts of wampum. -Here, also, they found expert makers of flint arrow-heads, knives, and -hatchets, weavers of mats, and workers in clay, from whom they might -procure rude vessels of earthen-ware. - -Above all, here dwelt Longfeather, to whom could be submitted all -disputed questions, with a certainty that he would settle them wisely -and justly. Thus it happened that the village of Peace became the -political capital and chief trading-point of all New England long -before ever a white man had set foot in that region. Here, too, -some twenty years after its founding, was born Nahma, the son of -Longfeather, a lad whose strange adventures in after-life are now for -the first time about to be related. - - - - -CHAPTER II - -CANONICUS MAKES TROUBLE - - -The boy thus introduced was carefully trained for the high position -that he must some time fill. Although from his father he never heard an -impatient or an unkind word, he was taught to respect his elders and to -yield the most implicit obedience to those in authority over him. As -soon as he was old enough to comprehend what he heard and saw he was -permitted to sit beside the Peacemaker and listen to the discussion -of matters affecting the well-being of the tribes. From Longfeather -himself, from the old men of the village, and from the visitors who -journeyed to it Nahma learned the traditions of his people. His father -also taught him to distinguish the totems of tribes or clans, together -with their significance, and illustrated his lessons by means of the -pictured belts that hung in the council-house. From these same teachers -Nahma also learned to believe in witchcraft and magic, by which alone -were they able to account for many natural phenomena. Thus even in the -years of his youth there came to Nahma a wisdom beyond that of all -other lads, and his name became known from one end of the land to the -other. - -Nor during this time of mental training was that of his body neglected. -Every day, even in the depth of winter, when ice must be broken before -water could be reached, he was made to plunge into the river or the -sea to toughen him and harden his flesh. He was taught to swim and to -paddle a canoe before he could walk; and often in later years when -trained runners were sent by Longfeather with messages to distant -tribes, the lad was allowed to accompany them, that he might learn the -trails, familiarize himself with remote localities and people, and -acquire the art of traversing great spaces in the shortest possible -time. So fleet of foot and so strong of wind did he thus become that he -at one time covered the distance between the village of Peace and the -sand-dunes of the Nausets on the edge of the great salt water between -two suns, a feat never before accomplished, and at which all men -marvelled. - -After this Nahma was frequently chosen to be his father's messenger -on occasions of importance, and very proud was the young warrior of -the trust thus reposed in him. Thus it happened that one day in the -lad's eighteenth year, when a matter of grave import demanded prompt -communication with a distant point in a region of danger, Longfeather -naturally turned to Nahma, his son. - -Troublous times had come, and the safety of the region so long ruled -by the Peacemaker was seriously threatened. To consider the situation -Longfeather had assembled a council of the tribes at Montaup, on the -edge of the salt water. This was the great gathering-place of the -Wampanoags, and to it their chieftain with his family was accustomed to -resort during the heated months of each summer. So here the council was -met, and after the calumet had passed entirely around its seated circle -Longfeather addressed the chiefs as follows: - -"It is well that we are come together, for the shadow of trouble is -upon us like that of a black cloud hiding the sun. While we be of many -tribes we have until now been of one heart, and even from the days -of Nassaup, my father, have we dwelt at peace one with another. Now, -however, is that peace threatened, and I have summoned you to see what -may be done." - -Here the speaker took one from a bundle of small sticks and handed it -to the oldest chief, saying, "Take this peace-stick, my brother, and -remember its meaning." Then to the others he continued,-- - -"For a long time, from our fathers, and from their fathers before -them, have we heard tales of strange, white-skinned beings armed -with thunderbolts, who have come from the sea. We have listened with -trembling, but have comforted ourselves that these strangers, whom we -took to be gods, appeared not on our shores, but at places far removed. -Also we heard that they tarried not; but always, after a short stay, -departed as they had come. Take this stick, my brother, and regard it -with respect, for it indicates the belief of our fathers." - -Thus saying, Longfeather handed a second stick from his bundle to the -aged chief. Then resuming his address, he said,-- - -"But all our comfort has vanished with the gaining of wisdom. Nearer -and more frequent have come tales of the whiteskins, until now we -know them to be men like unto ourselves, only of a different color -and having hairy faces. They are armed with thunder-sticks that can -kill at three times the flight of our strongest arrows. Also have we -learned that these men are borne to our coast in mighty canoes built -by themselves and driven by the wind. We know that many of these -canoes come for fish to the salt waters of the Tarratines. Not only do -they thus come and go in ever-increasing numbers, but they even visit -the land to care for the fish they have taken. Accept this stick, my -brother, to remind thee of the white-skinned men who fish." With this -Longfeather handed a third stick to the old man. - -"Still," he continued, "the white fish-catchers do not attempt to -remain with us, nor have they thus far given us cause to fear them. -Some of their lesser canoes, small when compared with those in which -they come and go, but large by the side of ours, even as the eagle is -larger than the hawk, have drifted empty to our shores, and our young -men have made use of them. Also at times the great winged canoes of the -white men have been seen to pass our coast, but never until the season -of last corn-planting have they tarried. Then came one to the country -of the Narragansetts, where it remained for the space of three moons. -This stick, my brother, will refresh thy memory concerning the coming -and tarrying of the great white canoe." With this the speaker passed a -fourth stick to the old chief. Then deliberately and with emphasis he -resumed his speech, saying,-- - -"On an island that they occupied the strangers who came in this canoe -erected a lodge. Many of you have seen it and them. They roamed through -the forest making thunder and killing beasts with their fire-sticks. -Above all, they traded with the Narragansetts, giving them knives and -hatchets made of an unknown metal, strong and sharp, kettles that fire -may not harm, and many other things in exchange for skins of the -beaver. Only with their thunder-sticks they would not part. By many -it was feared that they would remain and attempt to possess the land -that is our land. But after a time they departed, and the heart of -Longfeather was glad when he knew they were gone. At the same moment -his heart was again made heavy, for they gave out that they would come -again, bringing great wealth to exchange for beaver. Take this stick, -my brother, to remind thee that the white men will come again. - -"Now, my friends, what has happened? It is this. The Narragansetts are -puffed up with pride because they are possessed of knives and hatchets -better and more deadly than any ever before seen in all the world. -Also, they desire to obtain more of such things and to learn the secret -of the thunder-sticks that kill as far as one may see. Therefore did -Canonicus, head sachem of the Narragansetts, propose secretly to me -that when the great canoe came again I should order the white men to -be killed, that he and I might possess ourselves of their wealth, and -so become as gods, all-powerful in the land. This stick, my brother, -marks the proposition of Canonicus. - -"To the evil words of the Narragansett I refused to listen, saying to -him that to do what he had in his mind would surely bring upon our -heads the wrath of the Great Spirit. Furthermore, I bade Canonicus -put such evil thoughts far behind him and consider them no more. This -stick, my brother, is Longfeather's answer to Canonicus. - -"Again, my friends, what has happened? The Narragansett promised to -open wide his ears that the words of Longfeather might sink into his -heart. Did he do this? No. He closed tight his ears that they might not -hear, and began to look for others who would aid him in his wickedness. -So far did his eyes travel that they came even to the land of the -Maquas [Mohawks], who from the days of the first men have been our -enemies. To them is he preparing to send messengers with presents and -a promise of great wealth, together with power over all the tribes, -if they will join him in destroying the next white men who may come. -Canonicus was bidden to this council, but I cannot see him. This -stick, my brother, will tell thee of his black heart. I have finished." - -So long did the council discuss this situation and so many were the -speeches to be delivered on the subject, that a decision was not -reached until late on the second day of meeting. Then it was ordered -that Canonicus should be summoned to report in person to the assembled -chiefs, who for two days longer would await his coming. If at the end -of that time he had not appeared, a war-party of the allied tribes -should be sent to fetch him. In the mean time Longfeather would send -a delegation to the Maquas bearing presents, and offering, on behalf -of the combined New England tribes, a treaty that should secure to all -equal benefits from whatever trade might be had with the white-skinned -strangers. It was furthermore agreed that so long as the white men -proved themselves friendly they should be treated as friends. "For," -said the Peacemaker, "they are few and we are many, they are weak while -we are strong, therefore let us live at peace with them, if indeed they -come to us again, a thing that I trust may not happen. So shall we -please the Great Spirit who made them, doubtless for some good reason, -even as he made the red man and gave him control over the earth." - -So it was done even as the council had ordered, and a runner was -despatched to Canonicus with a summons for him to appear at Montaup, -and forbidding him to treat with the Maquas. Also active preparations -were made for sending an embassy to that powerful people on behalf -of the allied New England tribes, and to his joy Nahma was chosen to -accompany it as his father's representative. - - - - -CHAPTER III - -AT THE CROSSING OF THE SHATEMUC - - -The whole land to the very edge of the great salt water, and including -the islands of the sea, was covered with a forest that sheltered it -alike from summer heats and the deadly cold of winter. Stately pines -growing on hill-sides lifted their evergreen heads far above all -other trees, and stood as ever-watchful sentinels. Mighty oaks shaded -wide-spread areas, while graceful elms were mirrored in lake and river. -Everywhere the painted maples flaunted their brilliant colors, while -chestnut, beech, hickory, and walnut showered down bountiful stores -of food to those trusting in them for a winter's supply. Man, beast, -and bird, all children of the forest, dwelt within its safe protection -and were fed from its exhaustless abundance. Its rivers and smaller -streams, filled from brimming reservoirs and unobstructed by dams, -afforded highways of travel ever ready for use and always in the best -of repair. Besides these, the forest was threaded with trails worn -by countless generations of Indian runners, traders, hunters, and -fighters, and these were as familiar to the dwellers in the shade as -are the streets of a city to one born within its walls. - -Along one of these devious trails, narrow and so dim that an -unpractised eye would quickly have lost it, sped a solitary runner. He -was young and goodly to look upon, while his movements were as graceful -as those of the deer, whose soft-tanned skins constituted his attire. -He was bareheaded, and in his hair was fastened a single feather from -the wing of an osprey or fishing eagle. - -A noticeable feature of his costume was a broad belt of wampum, -worn diagonally across his breast so that it might readily be seen -and recognized. On it at short intervals were worked seven figures -representing birds, beasts, and fishes, for it was the Belt of Seven -Totems, indicating the authority of Longfeather the Peacemaker, and the -young runner now wearing it so conspicuously was none other than Nahma, -his only son. - -While Longfeather awaited the return of his messenger to Canonicus and -made ready the presents intended for Sacandaga, chief sachem of the -Maquas, news came that the Narragansett embassy to that same powerful -chieftain had already set forth on its mission. Thus there was no time -to be lost if his own message was to reach Sacandaga first, an event -that he deemed to be of the utmost importance. The chiefs whom he -desired to send as ambassadors could not travel at greater speed than -could the Narragansetts, who had a two days' start, but it was possible -that a fleet-footed runner might even yet overtake and pass them. As -this thought flashed through Longfeather's mind he knew that if the -thing might be done it could only be accomplished by the swiftest of -all his runners, and he promptly caused Nahma to be summoned. - -At that moment the young warrior was listening with eager interest -to the stories of white men and their great winged canoes, told by -Samoset, an Abenaki youth of his own age, who had accompanied his -chieftain to the council at Montaup. - -"What do they call their tribe?" inquired Nahma, "and of what nature is -their speech? Doth it resemble ours so that one may comprehend their -words?" - -"They appear to be of many tribes," replied Samoset, "though we call -them all 'Yengeese.' Also they speak with many tongues, strange and -unpleasant to the ear." - -"What are they like, these tongues? Hast thou not caught some word that -we may hear?" - -"Often they say 'Hillo' and 'Sacre,'" replied Samoset, "but what these -mean I know not. Also, once, where from hiding I watched them cooking -fish on a beach, a pebble rolled from me to them. As they sprang up in -alarm I slipped away, fearing lest they might take offence. As I did so -one of them cried out very loud, 'Mass i-sawit!'" (By the mass I saw -it.) - -"Massasoit," repeated Nahma, thoughtfully. "It hath a familiar sound, -and might be a word of the Wampanoags, except that it is without -meaning. I long greatly to see these white-skinned fish-catchers and -their big canoes that resemble floating hill-tops with trees growing -in them. So if it may be arranged I will return with thee, Samoset, to -look upon these wonders. But you have said naught of the thunder-sticks -about which we hear so much. What of them? Are they indeed as terrible -as represented?" - -Ere Samoset could answer, Nahma received word that Longfeather desired -his presence, and, promising shortly to rejoin his companions, he left -them. Ten minutes later, without their knowledge or that of any person -in all Montaup, save only his parents, the young runner had left his -father's lodge bound on a solitary mission, longer, more important, and -more dangerous than any he had heretofore undertaken. He was to make -his way with all speed and in utmost secrecy to Sacandaga, head sachem -of the Maquas, and urge him, in the name of Longfeather, not to treat -with the Narragansetts or any other single tribe before the arrival of -the Peacemaker's own embassy. - -Longfeather had given his instructions hastily and in a few words. He -had invested the lad with his own superb belt as a badge of authority, -and had dismissed him with the peremptory orders of a sachem, -delivered in the loving tone of a father who sends his only son into -danger. - -Besides the Belt of Seven Totems, Nahma carried only a bow and arrows -slung to his back, a wallet of parched corn bruised in a mortar until -it formed a coarse meal, a small fire-bag of flints and tinder, and a -copper knife, the precious gift of his father. Having taken but five -minutes for preparation, he tenderly embraced his mother and bade her -farewell. Filled with a presentiment of coming evil, Miantomet clung -to him as though she could not let him go; but, comforting her with -loving words, the lad gently disengaged her arms from about his neck -and sprang away. In another minute he had plunged into the forest and -was lost to sight amid its blackness. - -For some hours the way was partially revealed by the light of a young -moon, and by the time of its setting Nahma had placed a score of miles -between him and Montaup. Then, as he could no longer make speed through -the darkness, he flung himself down at the foot of a great oak and was -almost instantly fast asleep. - -By earliest dawn he was again on the trail, and all that day he sped -forward with hardly a pause. Occasionally he passed a group of bark -huts nestled beside some smooth-flowing stream and surrounded by rudely -tilled fields; but at none of these did he halt, save only now and -then for a few mouthfuls of food. The belt that he wore insured him -everywhere a glad welcome and instant service. He forded or swam the -smaller streams; while at points where his trail crossed rivers he -always found canoes that he did not hesitate to appropriate to his own -use if their owners were not at hand. He was on the king's business and -nothing might delay it. - -Thus Nahma sped so swiftly on his errand that an hour before sunset -of the second day found him, very weary but exultant, on the eastern -bank of the Shatemuc and at the border of the country claimed by -the Iroquois, of whom the Maquas were the easternmost tribe. He was -farther from home than he had ever been before and in a region of -which he had no knowledge. At the same time he knew that the Maquas, -being now at peace with the New England tribes, were accustomed to -send hunting-parties east of their great river, and so he had hoped -to find one or more canoes at the crossing. In this, however, he was -disappointed, for, search as he might, he could discover none of the -desired craft, though he found a place where several had but recently -been concealed. - -As there were no other traces of human presence in that vicinity, -Nahma concluded that the canoes had been taken by persons coming from -across the river. He did not suspect that it might have been done by -the Narragansetts whom he was striving to outstrip; for thus far he had -discovered no sign of them, and had reached a conclusion that they must -have taken some other trail. At any rate, there was no canoe to be had, -and, as he was determined to cross the river before dark, he must swim -it. This he did, keeping dry his scanty clothing and few belongings -by floating them on a small raft of bark that he pushed before -him. Arrived on the farther side our young runner made a startling -discovery. Not only were a number of canoes drawn out on the bank and -concealed beneath overhanging bushes, but on the soft ground beside -them he found the unmistakable imprint of Narragansett moccasins. -Also, a short distance back from the river, he came upon the still -smouldering remains of a small fire. At length, then, he was close upon -the heels of his rivals, and he must at all hazards pass them that -night in order to gain a first hearing from Sacandaga. At the same time -he was in immediate need of food and rest, for he was faint with hunger -and exhausted by his recent exertions. There was no sign of danger, his -rivals had gone on, and the fire they had so kindly provided invited -him to cook food that was to be had for the taking. - -So abounding with fish were all the streams of that land that no one -possessed of even ordinary skill at catching them need go hungry. Nahma -was well aware of this, and, taking a pinch of his parched corn, he -stepped back to the river's bank and cast it upon the water. In another -moment he had transfixed with an unerring arrow one of the half-dozen -large fish that rushed greedily to the surface, and his supper was -provided. Having cooked it and satisfied his ravenous hunger, the lad -withdrew to a thicket well beyond the circle of firelight and flung -himself down for an hour of sleep before continuing his journey. - -The young runner was lost to consciousness within a minute after -closing his eyes; but not until his heavy breathing gave notice of -the fact did a painted savage, who for more than an hour had watched -his every movement, drop to the ground from among the branches of a -thick-leaved oak. There he had crouched as motionless as a panther -awaiting its prey; and now, after stretching his cramped limbs, he -stole with catlike tread towards the sleeping youth. - - - - -CHAPTER IV - -THE BELT CHANGES HANDS - - -In all the history of the world it has happened that dwellers by the -sea have been more advanced and prosperous than their inland neighbors. -Thus, in the present instance, the Wampanoags and the Narragansetts -were the most numerous and powerful of the New England tribes. There -had always been jealousies and often open warfare between them, nor had -these wholly ceased to exist upon the election of Longfeather to the -high office of Peacemaker. Canonicus, head sachem of the Narragansetts, -felt that he was equally entitled to be thus honored, and consequently -was bitterly jealous of his successful rival. This feeling was shared -by his nephew and adopted son, Miantinomo, only that the envy and -hatred of the latter were directed against Nahma, whose place as future -ruler of the allied tribes he was determined to occupy, if by any -means such a thing might be accomplished. - -Thus, when Canonicus planned to secure a power greater than that of -Longfeather by forming an alliance with the eastern Iroquois, he found -in Miantinomo an eager assistant. So, even as the Peacemaker had chosen -his own son to represent him in the mission to Sacandaga, Canonicus -selected Miantinomo for a similar position in the Narragansett embassy. -In this way, without either being aware of the fact, the two young -rivals became actively pitted against each other in the most important -undertaking of their lives. - -While urged to make all possible haste, the Narragansett party was -obliged to adapt its pace to that of the oldest chief among them; and -while they expected that Longfeather would also send messengers to the -Maquas, they fancied these would be equally restricted as to speed. -They knew that they had a start of at least two days, and believed they -could reach Sacandaga's village, transact their business, and depart -for home before the coming of their rivals. At the same time they -neglected no precaution to insure the success of their undertaking. -They struck the Shatemuc at a point much lower than that reached by -Nahma, and from it ascended the river in canoes. As they advanced they -kept sharp watch of the eastern shore, and removed all craft found on -it to the opposite side of the river. Their last exploit of this kind -was at a place where they must again take to the land and follow a -trail to the Maqua villages. - -Having thus provided for a further delay of the other party, they felt -no apprehension of being overtaken, and proceeded leisurely on their -journey. They did, however, take the added precaution of leaving a -scout behind them to watch the crossing until sunset. For this purpose -they selected Miantinomo, as being the keenest-eyed and swiftest-footed -of their party. So Nahma's most active rival and secret enemy was left -to cover the rear, while his elders disappeared in single file up the -narrow trail. - -According to Indian custom Miantinomo had brought pigments with him, -and now he relieved the tedium of his watch, which he did not believe -would amount to anything, by painting his body in anticipation of a -speedy arrival at the Maqua villages. So interested was he in this -occupation that for a time he forgot everything else; then, startled -by a splash in the river, he glanced up. A swimmer, just emerged from -deep water, was wading ashore pushing before him a small raft, and -Miantinomo instantly recognized him. Being hidden behind a screen of -bushes, and satisfied that Nahma was still ignorant of his presence, -the young Narragansett, crouching low, made his way to a thick-leaved -oak that overhung the trail a short distance back from the river, and -was snugly hidden among its branches by the time Nahma gained the land. - -Miantinomo was not wholly surprised to discover the son of Longfeather -at this place; but he could not understand why he should be alone. -It must be that he had come to obtain canoes in which to bring over -the others of his party. Thus thinking, he expected to see Nahma at -once recross the river. In that case he would hasten after his own -companions and urge them to travel all night, that they might still -reach the Maqua villages in advance of their rivals. - -But the new-comer failed to do as expected, and Miantinomo was more -puzzled than ever at witnessing his preparations to secure a meal and -spend some time where he was. He evidently was alone, and after the -spy became convinced of this, he wondered if by some means he might -not prevent Longfeather's messenger from continuing his journey. He -was also filled with a great longing to possess himself of the Belt of -Seven Totems, which he recognized as Nahma again assumed it. Well did -the young Narragansett realize the power conferred upon the wearer of -that belt. If it should be opposed to him in the presence of Sacandaga, -then would his mission prove a failure and his uncle's cherished plan -would come to naught. On the other hand, if the all-powerful belt could -be made to appear in his behalf, if he only might possess it even for a -short time, how easy would become his task! - -From the moment these thoughts entered his mind Miantinomo was -determined to acquire the coveted object by any means that should -offer. He knew that Nahma would never relinquish the belt of his own -free will, and that it must be taken from him by either stealth or -force. He knew also that should he succeed in his wicked design he -would incur the vengeance of Longfeather, and doubtless bring on a -war in which all the New England tribes would be involved. But what -of that? Would not the powerful Iroquois fight on the side of the -Narragansetts; and, armed with the white man's weapons, might they not -successfully defy the world? - -Filled with these ambitious thoughts, Miantinomo flattened himself -closer against the great oak limb and, regardless of the discomfort -of his position, watched with glittering eyes every movement of his -rival. More than anything else he resembled a venomous serpent awaiting -an opportunity to spring upon an unsuspecting victim. At his back was -a bow and a quiver of flint-headed arrows, with one of which he might -easily have stricken Nahma to the earth at any moment, but he was not -yet prepared to shed innocent blood for the accomplishment of his -purpose. Besides, he dared not make a movement that might attract the -other's attention. So he waited with all the patience of his race and -an ever-strengthening resolve to obtain possession of the Peacemaker's -belt. - -In the mean time Nahma, utterly unconscious of the dangerous presence -so close at hand, procured, cooked, and ate his supper, selected what -he believed to be a safe resting-place, and laid himself down for a -nap. The moment for which Miantinomo had waited was at hand, and with -noiseless movement he slipped to the ground. For a few seconds he stood -motionless behind the tree, to assure himself that his rival had not -been aroused; then with catlike tread he stole towards the unsuspecting -sleeper. - -At length he stood beside Nahma and bent over him with the coveted -belt easily within his reach. Bits of moonlight sifting through leafy -branches fell upon it and upon the upturned face of the sleeper. So -profound was his slumber that Miantinomo believed he might remove the -belt without disturbing him, and laying his stone-headed war-club -within easy reach, he began with the utmost caution to make the -attempt. It had very nearly succeeded, and the belt, partially -loosened, was within his grasp, when, without warning, Nahma opened his -eyes. Miantinomo leaped back at the first sign of waking, and as his -victim attempted to gain his feet a crushing blow stretched him again -on the ground motionless and to all appearance dead. - -For a moment the young Narragansett stood ready to repeat his cowardly -assault; but, seeing that a second blow was unnecessary, he again bent -over the body of his rival and snatched from it the belt for which he -had been willing to risk so much. With his prize thus secured, he was -about to hasten from the spot when another thought caused him to pause. -It would never do to leave the evidence of his crime where it was so -certain to be discovered. He had not meant to kill Nahma, and now that -the awful deed was committed, he trembled at thought of its possible -consequences. Even his own people would regard him with abhorrence if -they knew of it, while the vengeance of Longfeather would be swift -and terrible. Therefore what he had done must never be known even by -his nearest friends, and before leaving that spot he must remove all -traces of his murderous deed. Stripping off his scanty raiment that it -might not become bloodstained, he lifted the limp form of the stricken -youth, and carrying it some distance down the stream, flung it into -the river. He heard the heavy splash of the body as it struck the -water, but was too nervous to make further inquiry as to its condition. -Thus whether it sank or floated he did not know, nor did he seek to -discover, but fled from the spot as though pursued. - -Reaching the place where he had left his garments and the belt, he -hastily resumed the former, and concealed the latter beneath them. Then -he set forth at top speed to rejoin his companions and report that he -had seen nothing alarming during his watch by the river-side. - -On the following day the Narragansett embassy reached the Maqua -villages, where, in spite of their alluring proposition and valuable -presents, they were at first received with coldness and suspicion. -At the council assembled to hear their talk Sacandaga flatly refused -to make an alliance with any one of the New England tribes, and the -Narragansetts retired from it believing that the cherished plan of -Canonicus must come to naught. - -That night, however, Miantinomo sought a private interview with the -Maqua sachem, and displayed to him the Belt of Seven Totems, which -Sacandaga at once recognized, since its fame had spread far and wide. -"It is the belt of Longfeather," he said, after a close inspection. - -"Yes," replied Miantinomo, "it is the belt of the great Peacemaker, who -is also my father." - -"How can that be?" asked the other. "May a man have two fathers?" - -"By adoption, yes," answered the young Narragansett. "Having no son of -his own, Longfeather has adopted the nephew of his friend Canonicus, -that in time their tribes may be united under one chief. To the -Narragansetts I am known as Miantinomo, but by all others am I called -Nahma, son of Longfeather." - -"I have heard the name and it is described as being that of a most -promising warrior," said Sacandaga, regarding the young man with -renewed interest. - -"One blessed with two such fathers should indeed prove himself -worthy," was the modest reply. "In proof that I am regarded as a son by -Longfeather," he continued, "the Peacemaker has intrusted me with this -token of authority. Never before has he parted with it, and to none, -save only the mighty chief of the Maquas, whose friendship he greatly -desires, would he send it. Also he has done this thing in secret, so -that even those who come with me know not that I am intrusted with so -great authority." - -So impressed was Sacandaga by this flattering statement and by sight -of the belt offered in evidence of its sincerity, that he not only -listened attentively to the young man's proposals, but finally agreed -to accept them. - -"With Canonicus alone I could not have treated," he said, "for he is -but one of many; but with Longfeather, who represents the many, I may -enter into a compact." - -"The words of Sacandaga are good," replied Miantinomo, gravely, "and -will be as the singing of birds in the ears of Longfeather. At the -same time I trust it will not be forgotten that they may not be sent -directly to him. For the present he would not have it known that he -desires the wealth of the white-skinned strangers. If they think him a -friend they will the more readily fall into the snare he will set for -them. Therefore, my father, let the public treaty be made only between -Sacandaga and Canonicus, for Longfeather will be well pleased to have -it so proclaimed." - -"I understand and will not forget," replied the Maqua chief. - -Thus through treachery and deceit did the wily young Narragansett gain -his point and accomplish the mission with which he had been intrusted -by Canonicus. - - - - -CHAPTER V - -WHAT THE DAUGHTERS OF KAWERAS FOUND - - -Sacandaga secretly gave to Miantinomo a belt of wampum bearing the -emblem of a tortoise, his own totem, to be transmitted to Longfeather, -while publicly he gave another to the Narragansett chiefs for -Canonicus. After the formalities of the treaty as well as the private -negotiations were concluded, Miantinomo urged the immediate departure -of his companions lest they might discover his evil doings. Then, -having got them well started on their homeward journey, he hastened -on in advance. For this he gave an excuse that the whites who were to -be plundered might appear at any time, and that every hour was now -of importance. His real reason was the belief that Longfeather must -also have sent a delegation of chiefs to confer with the Maquas, and a -determination to meet them and, if possible, turn them back. So, while -his companions took a trail different from the one by which they had -come, Miantinomo hastened back to the place where he had encountered -Nahma, and found those who had followed the son of Longfeather camped -on the opposite bank of the river awaiting the coming of canoes in -which to cross over. - -For some time after his appearance among them they asked no questions, -but waited in dignified silence to learn of his errand to them. -Finally, the young man said,-- - -"My fathers, you are following Nahma, the son of Longfeather, on a -mission to Sacandaga, the Iroquois. Is it not so?" - -"It is as my young brother has said," replied one of the chiefs. - -"Then you may be spared a farther journey," continued Miantinomo, -"for Nahma, by virtue of the belt he wore, the great Belt of Seven -Totems, readily gained the ear of Sacandaga, even while I and those -with me were vainly striving to do so. Thus did he make a treaty with -the Iroquois on behalf of Longfeather, his father, and for fear that -you might claim a share in the honor he has returned to Montaup by -another trail. Even now he travels with those of my people who kept -me company. I have come by this trail that I may visit the village -of Peace before returning to my father. For this I was heavy-hearted; -but now am I glad, because I have met with you, and may so save you a -useless journey." - -For some time the chiefs discussed this report of Miantinomo; and then, -because they did not wholly trust him, they decided to retain him as -a hostage while one of their number visited the Maqua villages for -confirmation of his words. - -During the absence of this messenger Miantinomo was filled with -apprehension, though he carefully hid his feelings and affected the -utmost unconcern. He even went so far as to advise Longfeather's -commissioners to appropriate to their own use the presents they were -bearing to Sacandaga, and seek their respective homes without reporting -to the Peacemaker. - -"The treaty has been made," he said. "The sachem of the Maquas is -satisfied and expects nothing further. You have been put to much -trouble and will have no share in the honor. Longfeather has no thought -that the presents will be returned to him. Therefore is it best that -you who have earned them should keep them." - -To such arguments the chiefs listened not unwillingly; and when their -messenger returned with a report that Miantinomo had spoken truly -concerning what had taken place in the Maqua village, they decided to -accept his advice. - -"Why should Longfeather have intrusted the Belt of Seven Totems to one -so young and inexperienced as Nahma instead of to us?" they asked. -"Also why did he not tell us that he had done so? Truly he has shamed -us, and if we take his presents to wipe out our shame, then shall we do -that which is right and good." - -Having reached this conclusion, each took a share and went his way; -while Miantinomo, rejoicing at the complete success of his evil designs -and still wearing next his skin the Belt of Seven Totems that was -the badge of highest authority in all that land, returned to his own -people. There he busied himself with the secret spreading of various -reports concerning the young rival with whom he had dealt so foully. -One was that Nahma had taken a Maqua girl to wife and would thereafter -dwell among the Iroquois. Another was to the effect that he had been -murdered by his companions of Longfeather's embassy for the sake of the -belt that he wore, as well as for the presents intrusted to them, which -they had taken for their own benefit. - -From Sacandaga himself Longfeather learned that a young man named -Nahma and wearing the Belt of Seven Totems had indeed visited the -Maqua villages, from which he had departed again in company with the -Narragansett chiefs. Although the latter denied this and declared that -they had not seen Nahma, Miantinomo maintained that he had met him in -Sacandaga's village and spoken with him. - -By these and other conflicting stories was the fate of Nahma so -shrouded in mystery that it became impossible to discover what had -really befallen him, and finally his friends mourned for him as for one -who is dead. Even while they thus mourned it became rumored that either -Canonicus or Miantinomo, his adopted son, would succeed Longfeather -in the high office of Peacemaker and ruler of the allied New England -tribes. - -In the mean time, while all these events were happening, Nahma knew -nothing of them nor indeed of anything else, for he lay tossing with -fever in the lodge of Kaweras, principal arrow-maker of the Maquas. -When, apparently dead, he had been flung into the river to disappear -forever from human eyes, he had fallen among a bed of reeds in a -place where the water was too shallow to drown him. There he lay -motionless through the long night hours, half in the water and half -out of it, while the tall reeds whispered and rustled above his head. -Soft-flitting night-birds gazed at him with wondering eyes, while timid -animals coming to the river to drink sniffed the air tainted by his -presence and fled in terror. - -Towards morning a glimmer of returning life entered the numbed brain, -and in striving to obey its commands the poor bruised body began to -make feeble movements. By sunrise Nahma was sitting up and gazing -stupidly at the green wall by which he was surrounded. Also he muttered -over and over, with tedious repetition, three meaningless words: -"Hillo, Sacre," and "Massasoit." Other than this he gave no sign of -restored consciousness. He did not take heed even when a sound of merry -voices came to the place where he sat, nor was his attention attracted -by a loud swish and rustle of the reeds that came ever nearer until it -was close at hand. Then there was a momentary silence, broken only by -the monotonous repetition of "Hillo, Sacre, Massasoit." - -A stifled exclamation and excited whispers announced that these words -had at length reached human ears, but there was an evident hesitation -while fear struggled with curiosity. After a minute the reeds in front -of Nahma were noiselessly parted, and the bow of a canoe stole into -sight inch by inch with almost imperceptible motion. From it peered -the face of a young girl, bright and fascinating, but big-eyed with -apprehension as that of a startled fawn. As she caught a glimpse of the -wounded youth the progress of the canoe was instantly arrested, while -the girl became rigidly motionless. Her eyes, however, took in every -detail of his appearance and of his melancholy situation. He still -appeared to see nothing and still repeated the words that had attracted -attention, "Hillo, Sacre, Massasoit." - -[Illustration: AS SHE CAUGHT A GLIMPSE OF THE WOUNDED YOUTH THE -PROGRESS OF THE CANOE WAS INSTANTLY ARRESTED] - -"What is it, sister? What do you see?" came in a frightened whisper -from an unseen speaker who occupied the farther end of the canoe; but -the other, still gazing motionless, made no reply. "Aeana," insisted -the invisible one in a louder tone, "tell me quickly what you see. I am -frightened." - -"I see nothing to be afraid of, Otshata," replied the girl in the bow -of the canoe. "It is a young man, but he is evidently sorely wounded -and regards not our presence. There, you may see for yourself." With -this the girl called Aeana pulled the canoe into such a position that -the other could catch a glimpse of Nahma. - -"It is certain that he is handsome," whispered Otshata; "but is not his -condition dreadful? Let us hasten and report it to our father." - -"No," answered Aeana, decisively. "That is," she added, "we will return -to our father, and that quickly, but we must either take this young man -with us or leave him to perish. See you not that the river is flowing -backward and that its waters are rising? If we leave him he must die, -since he is in no condition to care for himself. How we may get him -into the canoe I know not, but if that can be done we will carry him to -Kaweras, our father." - -The elder though more timid sister attempted a further expostulation, -but without heeding her Aeana brought the canoe close to where -the wounded youth still sat, indifferent alike to his fate and -his surroundings, idly repeating the strange words that had fixed -themselves in his bewildered brain. Aeana spoke to him, but he failed -to comprehend what she said. She laid a gentle hand on his arm and -endeavored to persuade him into the canoe, but he sat passively -motionless. - -Finally in despair the girl uttered one of the strange words that he -so constantly repeated. "Massasoit," she said, and the youth looked -at her, seeming for the first time to recognize her presence. A faint -smile flickered across his blood-smeared features, and he made a -movement towards her. In another moment, aided by her supple strength, -he had gained the interior of the canoe, and lay weakly with closed -eyes while the two girls pulled it out from among the reeds. Then -seizing their paddles, they urged the light craft swiftly down the -river towards their father's lodge. - -Thus did the daughters of Kaweras, who had been sent to fetch a bundle -of stout reeds that might serve as shafts for bird arrows, return -without them, but bringing a wounded and unconscious youth in their -place. - -Although the old arrow-maker saw at a glance that the young warrior -was not of the Maqua, nor even of the Iroquois people, his ideas of -hospitality did not permit him to ask questions nor hesitate a moment -before attending to the stranger's needs. It required the united -strength of father and daughters to transfer Nahma from canoe to lodge, -and when he was finally laid in the latter on a hastily improvised -couch of boughs and skins, he was once more to all appearance dead. - - - - -CHAPTER VI - -IN THE LODGE OF THE ARROW-MAKER - - -The lodge of Kaweras, occupied only by him and his two daughters, stood -by itself in a grassy glade shaded by elms on the western bank of the -lordly Shatemuc. Close at hand flowed a spring of crystal water, while -at no great distances were abundant materials for the prosecution -of the old arrow-maker's trade. Nearby hills furnished him with -flints and slate, agate and milk-white quartz; stout reeds and tough, -straight-grained woods were to be had for the taking. Deer of the -forest yielded him their strong back-sinews for binding arrow-head to -shaft, and myriads of sea-fowl flying up or down the broad river gave -him of their feathers. In his younger days Kaweras had been a noted -warrior. Now he was the most expert arrow-maker of the region in which -he dwelt. He was also a mystic, a prophet, and one well versed in the -science of healing by means of herbs, roots, bark, and leaves. - -In his double capacity of arrow-maker and medicine-man Kaweras was much -sought after, and though his lodge stood remote from any village of his -people, it was rarely without visitors. Young warriors came for arrows -and to catch glimpses of his pretty daughters; their elders came to -consult with him concerning grave affairs; while many of all ages and -both sexes came for healing or to profit by his advice. As all brought -gifts, Kaweras was well-to-do, and his larder was always stocked with -choicest products of forest and field without effort on his own part or -that of his daughters. - -These last kept tidy the spacious lodge with its three divisions, of -which only the outer one was for the general public, prepared the -family meals, and did much sewing with needles of fishbone threaded -with fibre or sinew. At the same time they found abundant leisure for -paddling on the river in their canoe of white birch brought from the -far north and for attending to the needs of their pets, two tame fawns -and a large flock of wild ducks bred in captivity. Also they helped -their father in the making of arrows, and especially in the gathering -of material. - -With this busy but uneventful life the elder sister was quite content, -but Aeana always longed for excitement and adventure. Now she had -found both in the coming to their quiet lodge of a stranger, young, -mysterious, wounded to the point of death, and speaking a language to -which even the wisdom of her father could find no clue. Furthermore, -she regarded him with a proprietary interest, for had she not -discovered him and rescued him from almost certain destruction? - -During the long illness that followed his coming, and while he lay -oblivious to his surroundings, she often gazed curiously upon his face, -listened to the three strange words that he repeated to the exclusion -of all others, and speculated concerning him. She became impatient for -him to get well that he might tell her who he was, where he came from, -and how he happened to be in the sad plight that had so nearly proved -fatal. She would have talked of him to their many visitors but for her -father's expressed wish that Nahma's presence in their lodge should -be kept a secret from all men. Kaweras hoped thus to learn something -concerning him from unguarded conversations, but in this he was -disappointed. It is true that he heard of the mysterious disappearance -of Nahma, the son of Longfeather, but whenever that youth was mentioned -Miantinomo was described, and as this description did not coincide in -any particular with the appearance of his patient, he had no reason to -connect the two. - -Otshata was quite as much interested in the young stranger as was -her sister, but in another way. She thought him very handsome, which -Aeana would not admit, and secretly rejoiced in the helplessness that -depended so largely upon her gentle ministrations. She had the motherly -instinct that found pleasure in self-sacrifice, and from the first -constituted herself chief nurse of the stricken youth. - -For a long time it was doubtful if Nahma would ever recover from the -illness by which he was prostrated; but after it finally took a turn -for the better he began rapidly to mend. On the day that he first -ventured outside the lodge into the freedom of open air there was -much rejoicing in the little family, but it was tinged with sadness. -Although weak and emaciated from his long sickness, he was still a -goodly youth to look upon, and gave promise of speedily regaining his -physical powers; but his mind was that of a child. He could neither -tell nor remember anything of his former life, even its language was -lost to him, and he could converse only in such words of the Iroquois -tongue as he had acquired from his present associates. As he could not -tell them his name, they called him "Massasoit," from the word he had -most frequently uttered during his delirium, and this he accepted as -readily as he did all else that they offered him. - -While thus compelled to relearn everything that required mental effort, -it was soon discovered that he had lost none of his cunning in matters -calling for physical strength or skill. He could still shoot an arrow -or hurl a spear with unerring aim, was rarely at fault on the dimmest -trail, and proved himself an adept in such branches of Indian handiwork -as usually fell to the share of warriors, such as the fashioning of -weapons or the building of canoes. He soon regained a muscular strength -even greater than that with which he had been endowed before his -illness, while his fleetness of foot excited the wonder of his friends. - -With all this Nahma was gentle and submissive to authority, a trait -that aroused the utmost scorn in the mind of Aeana. From the time his -mental weakness was discovered this high-spirited girl treated him as -she would a child, bidding him come or go, fetch or carry, according -as she felt inclined, and apparently she despised him for his ready -obedience to her orders. He, on the other hand, regarded her with an -intense admiration and sought in every way to win her favor. All his -trophies of the chase were laid at her feet only to be contemptuously -rejected or flung to Otshata. In the latter, however, the young man -found a friend to whom his misfortune appealed so keenly that she -treated him with unwearied kindness and tenderest consideration. He -called her "sister," a term that he dared not apply to Aeana, and -poured all his troubles into her sympathetic ear. - -One day Nahma returned hot and weary from a chase that had lasted many -hours and presented a noble stag to Aeana. Without taking notice of the -gift, and careless of his evident weariness, she bade him fetch her -water from the spring. As he willingly departed on this mission she -regarded him with curling lip, and when he returned bearing a large -earthen jar of water that he set before her, she promptly overturned -it so that its contents were spilled. At the same time she uttered the -single word "squaw" with an accent of utter contempt and entered the -lodge, leaving him bewildered and mortified. - -Walking slowly towards the river, he discovered Otshata seated in a -shaded nook on its bank embroidering a moccasin with painted quills. - -"My sister, why does Aeana hate me?" he asked, as he flung himself -despondently on the turf beside her. - -"She hates thee not, my brother," replied the other, interrupting her -work to look at him. - -"Truly she does. In every word and by every act she shows her dislike," -declared Nahma, bitterly. "She would be glad never to see me more, -and I will go away rather than remain longer to displease her by my -presence." - -"Speak not of such a thing!" exclaimed Otshata. "Whither would you go, -and what should we do without our hunter? If Aeana seems to treat thee -unkindly, it is only to inspire thee with a braver spirit. She likes -it not that one come to the estate of a warrior should tamely serve -her. She would have thee do brave deeds, and also she would have thee -remember thy past. Canst thou not do this, and by hard thinking recall -some one thing? Who was thy father? Who struck the cruel blow that so -nearly ended thy life? Who are thy people? Are they the Saganaga of the -south, the Oneidas of the west, or wast thou born among the fish-eaters -who dwell in the country of sunrising? I will not ask if thou hast -Huron blood in thy veins; for in spite of thy moccasins I feel assured -that thou art not of that wicked people." - -By this reference Otshata recalled the fact that, when found wounded -in the river sedge, Nahma had on his feet a pair of Huron-made -moccasins procured in the village of Peace to replace others worn out -by his journey; but of these he could give no account. - -"I strive to remember," declared the youth, vehemently. "Night and day, -sleeping and waking, I think till my head seems like to burst, but -'tis of no use. The only life that I know is here, and if I have had -another, it is gone from me like a dream of the black hours. So it is -well that I should go away, and if these Hurons be thy enemies and the -enemies of Aeana, then will I go and fight against them that she may no -longer despise and hate me." - -"No, no!" cried Otshata. "Think not of the war-path, my brother. The -Hurons are very fierce and terrible and cruel. Also they are so filled -with evil designs that only the wisest and most experienced warriors -may hope for success against them. Thee they would easily kill; or, -what is worse, they would take advantage of thy simplicity to adopt -thee and make thee sharer of their wickedness." - -At this point the conversation was interrupted by a summons from -Kaweras bidding Massasoit come to him quickly. - -While it had been comparatively easy to keep secret the presence of -a stranger in the lodge of Kaweras during his illness, it became -impossible to do so after he was out and about. So a knowledge of -the mysterious youth who could remember nothing of his past speedily -became noised abroad, and many persons, attracted by curiosity, came -to see him. The victim of these interviews dreaded them so intensely -that he spent much time in remote forest depths to avoid them. Now, -however, he was fairly caught, and going reluctantly to the lodge, -followed at a distance by Otshata, he found himself in the presence -of a distinguished-looking chieftain who was seated on a robe beside -Kaweras. Behind them stood a group of warriors. As Nahma drew near the -eyes of all these were fixed intently upon him, though no word was -spoken until he paused within a few paces of his host. - - - - -CHAPTER VII - -NAHMA JOINS A WAR-PARTY - - -"Massasoit," said Kaweras, as the young man regarded him inquiringly, -"I would have plumes from Ke-neu, the great eagle, to make a -war-bonnet. He waits yonder for an invitation to come to us. Can you -persuade him?" - -With this the speaker pointed upward to where a golden eagle, attracted -by a bait of raw flesh placed temptingly at some distance from the -lodge, circled on motionless pinions. - -Glancing in the direction indicated, Nahma stepped within the lodge, -from which he quickly reappeared bearing a bow and three arrows. -Again taking his station in front of Kaweras, he stood for a moment -motionless, watching intently the movements of the eagle, that still -circled slowly downward. One arrow was fitted to the bowstring, while -the other two were stuck in the ground before him. Suddenly the youth -lifted his weapon and let fly its feathered dart. Then he shot twice -more with such marvellous rapidity of motion that the third arrow was -leaving the bow ere the first had reached its mark. As the spectators -uttered an involuntary exclamation of amazement, the great bird, -evidently stricken to its death, plunged dizzily downward with feebly -beating wings. - -"Bring it," said the sachem, addressing those who stood behind him, and -each taking the command to himself, all sprang away in a breathless -race for the trophy. - -"Do thou bring it," said Kaweras to Nahma. - -Instantly the young bowman darted forward with such amazing swiftness -that, despite the distance already gained by the others, he overtook -and passed them ere they could reach the coveted goal. As he picked up -the dead bird and bore it back the others made way for him, nor did one -offer to take from him the prize that he had thus twice won. As he laid -it at the feet of Kaweras the bird was seen to be transfixed by three -arrows. - -"The young man should be named Sharp-eye, Quick-hand, and Swift-foot," -exclaimed the visiting sachem, who was none other than Sacandaga, "for -he has proved himself to excel the best of my warriors in all these -things. Not until this day have I believed the tales told me touching -his skill; but now I know them to have been less than the truth. If he -be as fearless as he is quick he should take high rank as a warrior. -How say you, Massasoit? Will you go with me and my young men to do -battle with the Hurons, who are reported to have taken the war-path -against us?" - -For a moment the youth hesitated. He glanced at the old arrow-maker, -whose features were unmoved and who made no sign. Then he looked -towards Otshata, whose face showed her distress and who made an -imploring gesture for him to decline the offer. Finally he turned to -Aeana, who stood motionless and with averted gaze, but her attitude and -expression were unmistakable. They said as plainly as words, "He is a -squaw and dares not face the war-path." - -In an instant Nahma's resolution was taken, and he answered Sacandaga, -saying,-- - -"I am without experience of the war-path, nor have I knowledge of any -people save only of these, my father and my sisters. If, however, -these Hurons be the enemies of Kaweras and of his daughters, then will -I gladly go with thee to fight against them." - -"It is well," replied Sacandaga, greatly pleased to have gained so -promising a recruit. "Spend thou the night with my young men, who will -instruct thee concerning many things, and in the morning will we set -forth." - -Some hours later, when the camp-fires had burned low and the recumbent -forms gathered about them were buried in slumber, two men issued -silently from the lodge of Kaweras and made their way to a secluded -spot on the river-bank, where they believed they might discuss weighty -matters without danger of being overheard. They were Sacandaga and the -old arrow-maker, and when they had gained the place they sought the -latter broke the silence by saying,-- - -"It is now many days since I became aware that Sacandaga proposed to -honor my poor lodge by a visit. Also am I informed of his object in -coming, though he has told it to no man." - -"How may such a thing be?" asked the other. - -"To all men come dreams, but to a few only is given the power of -understanding them," replied Kaweras. "The many dream dreams and forget -them on waking. Some indeed recall them and make vain efforts to -comprehend their meaning; but to Kaweras a dream speaks a language as -easy of understanding as the signs of the forest or the voices of birds -that dwell among its branches." - -"So I have heard, and for that reason have I come to thee," said -Sacandaga. "Tell me, then, what is my desire and if it may be -accomplished." - -"The Hurons are reported to be gathering on the war-path leading to -the country of the Iroquois, and thy desire is to proceed with such -promptness against them that they may be surprised and destroyed while -still in their own territory. Then would you descend on their villages -and wipe them out, that the power of our enemies may be broken forever." - -"That is indeed a hope that I have cherished, but always in secret, -and for my brother to know of it is proof that I have not done wrong -in coming to him for advice," said Sacandaga. "How, then, Kaweras, -will this plan of mine succeed, and shall we thus rid ourselves of the -wolves whose howling has so long troubled our ears?" - -The prophet hesitated before making reply. Then he said slowly, -"Sometimes the dream-pictures are so plenty and come so quickly that it -is hard to make out one from another, as it is hard to understand the -words of one man when many are talking. I see a fight. In it are Maquas -and Hurons. The Maquas chase their enemies and kill them. It is morning -and the sun is shining. Also with this picture I see another battle in -which the Hurons are overcoming the Maquas and taking many prisoners. -In this one is thunder and lightning, by which many are killed. Which -is the true picture I know not, nor how to advise my brother concerning -them." - -"Then will I interpret and tell thee their meaning," exclaimed -Sacandaga. "Both are true, and their meaning is this. I and my young -men are to go on the war-path against the Huron dogs and will surely -encounter them. If we do so on a fair morning when there is no sign of -storm in the air, then shall we overcome them and wipe them from the -face of the earth. If we should meet them in the morning and delay an -attack until later in the day, then would the Great Spirit grow angry -and send his lightnings to destroy us. It is well, my brother. I will -remember to seek the enemy on a fair morning and avoid him on a day of -storm. Now I would ask thee one more question. What do thy dreams tell -of the young man who is called Massasoit?" - -"This only," answered Kaweras, "that he is the son of a chieftain, and -will himself become a leader of men, wiser even and more powerful than -his father." - -"But who is his father?" - -"I know not, though of late I have come to a suspicion that this young -man may be Nahma, the missing son of Longfeather." - -"That cannot be, for I have had dealings with the son of Longfeather -and know that he and this youth are not one person." - -"Did not that one also claim to be a son of Canonicus?" - -"He did so claim." - -"Then he may have spoken falsely; for Uncas, the Mohican, hath lately -sent me word that Nahma and Miantinomo are two separate persons, -holding no love for each other and having nothing in common." - -"If the words of Uncas should prove true and it shall appear that I -have been led falsely into a treaty with Canonicus, then shall the -wrath of Sacandaga fall upon the Narragansetts even as one destroys a -serpent that has stung him. I will look closely into the matter when I -have returned from dealing with the Hurons. Until then it is well that -I keep this young man where I may watch over him." - -In the mean time the youth under discussion had just passed the -pleasantest evening his short memory could recall. He was like a boy -brought up in a nursery with only girls for companions, at length set -free and for the first time admitted to the company of men. He had no -recollection of companions of his own age and sex, so that the young -warriors who now welcomed him to their ranks were revelations as -surprising as they were interesting. - -How much they knew, and what wonderful things they told him! At the -same time how delightful was it to listen to their praise of his -own accomplishments! Until now he had not known that he possessed -accomplishments, but supposed that every one could shoot and run -equally well with himself. He could not remember having learned to -do these things, nor had he found occasion since entering the lodge -of Kaweras to test his skill in them against that of others. Now, -therefore, he was surprised as well as pleased to find himself in the -position of a hero on account of abilities that he had heretofore -regarded as commonplace. - -So pleasant was the evening thus spent with his new companions that -when Sacandaga gave the signal for conversation to cease that his young -men might sleep and so prepare for an early start on the morrow, Nahma -was filled with eager anticipations of the new life opening before him, -and already wondered how he could have been content with that passed in -the lodge of Kaweras. - -With the earliest promise of dawn he was first of all the sleeping -warriors to spring to his feet and begin preparations for departure. -Such as he had to make were few and simple, but to him they were of -vast importance. New moccasins and leggings of buckskin, a light robe -of soft furs in which to wrap himself at night, and a wing feather from -the great eagle for his head completed his list of personal belongings. -Besides these he would take a bow and the quiver of fine flint-headed -arrows that Kaweras presented to him that morning, his stone hatchet or -tomahawk, and the copper scalping-knife that was his sole relic of a -former but unremembered life. Also he must furnish to the general stock -of provisions a large, close-woven basket of parched corn. - -By sunrise a meal had been hastily eaten and everything was in -readiness for the setting forth of the war-party. Kaweras embraced -Nahma and bade him make for himself a name. Tears streamed down the -cheeks of Otshata as she bade him farewell and pressed into his hands a -pair of daintily embroidered moccasins as a token of remembrance. The -youth looked on all sides for Aeana, but she was nowhere to be seen. -Only after his canoe was well out on the river and he glanced back for -a farewell view of the place that had been to him a home did he see, -standing on a slight elevation and gazing in his direction, a solitary -figure that he knew to be that of the girl who scorned him. - -Some days later he found tucked down in the toe of one of Otshata's -moccasins an exquisite little tinder-bag of softest fawn-skin that he -had last seen hanging from the shapely neck of Aeana. - - - - -CHAPTER VIII - -TWO YOUNG SCOUTS - - -For two days did Sacandaga's little expedition proceed up the Shatemuc, -now making tedious carries around roaring waterfalls, and again -laboriously hauling their laden canoes up some stretch of tumultuous -rapids. At one of these places Sacandaga, bidding Nahma accompany -him, left the river and made his way swiftly along a broad trail that -led to the westward. After following it for a while they came to a -place of many springs delightfully shaded by giant trees. Although no -human being was to be seen, there were on all sides remnants of former -encampments. Also the ground about certain of the springs was worn -bare by innumerable hoof-prints, showing that deer and other animals -were accustomed to gather here in great numbers. Deeply marked trails -leading from every direction centred here, as though the springs formed -a meeting-place for all people. - -As Nahma noted these things Sacandaga smiled at his expression of -astonishment. "It is Sara Tioga, the place of healing," he said. "To -it come all who are sick or suffer pain that they may drink of the -medicine waters and be cured. Many would be here now but for the report -that an enemy is coming this way. When we have wiped him out then will -we return hither, that we may rejoice with feasting and dancing. At -that time will be seen a great gathering of the Iroquois, for this is -the place of all their places that they most love. Now, however, we may -tarry only long enough to drink of the life-giving waters and then must -we hasten forward. In drinking take careful note of the spring most -offensive to thy taste, for thus may be discovered which one is most -needful to thy well-being." - -So Nahma drank of all the springs, finding some of them salt, some -sparkling with effervescence, and others so nauseous that he turned -from them in disgust. - -"I like none of them and will drink no more," he finally declared. - -"Then must all of them be for thy good and thou must stand in need of -all the elements they contain," answered his companion, who cared to -hear naught but praise of his beloved springs. "But let us go, for we -have no time to lose." - -As they turned to depart from the beautiful place, Nahma suddenly -sprang upon his companion with such violence that Sacandaga was hurled -to the ground and the young man fell with him. At the same moment an -arrow was buried to its shaft in the trunk of a beech a few paces in -front of them, where it stood quivering with the force that had sped -it. Even as he fell Nahma bounded up, and an instant later, when the -startled sachem also gained his feet, he saw the young warrior darting -back in the direction from which they had just come. - -At the same time a third figure hideously daubed with war-paint -appeared in plain view. He stood directly in front of the rash youth -with bended bow and a second arrow drawn to its head. Quick as thought -Nahma dropped, and the feathered missile flew harmlessly above him. As -he again leaped to his feet his assailant turned to fly, but ere he -had taken half a dozen steps he sprang convulsively into the air and -plunged headlong with outstretched arms. An arrow sped from Sacandaga's -bow had passed through his body. - -"Why did you kill him?" asked Nahma, regretfully, as the two stood -together looking down on the still twitching body of their late foe. - -"Is it not what my young brother would have done?" inquired Sacandaga, -in surprise. - -"No; I would have caught him and made him tell me things." - -"What things?" - -"Why he hid from us and tried to kill us, who he was, and what he was -doing here. I do not remember seeing him among thy young men." - -Sacandaga smiled grimly. "He seems to have escaped being seen until he -came within range of Quick-eye's vision; but all thy questions may be -answered in a word. He is a Huron." - -"A Huron!" cried Nahma. "How may that be, when he looks like other men? -I thought a Huron was a wolf. Surely my father has said so." - -"A Huron is a wolf in spirit," replied Sacandaga, as he stooped and -deftly removed the dead man's scalp, "but the wolfish spirit is -concealed beneath the semblance of a man." - -"Then how may one know a Huron?" asked the puzzled youth. - -"By his paint, his moccasins, the cut of his scalp-lock, the fashion -of his weapons, his cast of feature, and by a thousand other signs as -plain as the difference between light and darkness." - -All these things had once been well known to Nahma; but now they were -as though he had never before heard of them, and he listened eagerly to -the words of Sacandaga's lesson. - -"This time," concluded the sachem, "my young brother has done well, -and to his quickness of sight combined with promptness of action do I -owe my life. But never again, my son, run openly upon an enemy without -first knowing his strength. It is seldom that a Huron spy comes alone -into the Iroquois country, and had there been others, or even one -other, with this one, thy death had been certain. Always when surprised -seek first a place of hiding from which to discover the strength of thy -enemy and plan for meeting him." - -The Huron scout who had just paid the penalty of his daring was one -of two sent to discover if the Iroquois had knowledge concerning the -projected invasion of their country. His companion had remained with -their canoe at the upper end of Andia-ta-roc-te (Lake George) while he -had penetrated the country as far as the springs of healing, where, -if the Iroquois felt themselves secure from invasion, he was certain -to discover a number of their lodges. He was greatly disappointed at -finding the place unoccupied, and was about to retrace his steps with -the information that an alarm had been given, when Sacandaga and his -young companion appeared on the scene. Hiding like a snake in the -grass, the Huron watched these two with longing eyes while waiting to -see if they would be followed by others. He recognized Sacandaga, and -was determined if possible to carry back with him the scalp of that -redoubtable chieftain. - -An opportunity came as his enemies turned to depart, and he cautiously -brought his bow into position. At that instant Nahma, glancing back, -caught sight of a tip of the weapon projecting above the tall grasses -and did the only thing possible to save his companion's life. - -As the fortunate survivors of this episode left the scene of its -occurrence they took a path leading northward, and after a time came -again to the Shatemuc, having cut off a great bend of the river that -the canoes must necessarily follow. As they went they discovered the -slight trail left by the Huron scout, but at the river it was lost. -Wading to the opposite bank, Nahma soon recovered it, and asked -permission to follow it farther; but Sacandaga would not grant this -until the arrival of the canoes. Then, after briefly relating what had -happened, he selected a young warrior already famous as a trailer and -ordered him to accompany Nahma over the path the Huron had come. This -warrior was named Ah-mik-pan-pin, or the Grinning Beaver, on account of -two prominent front teeth over which his lips were never wholly closed. - -"Have a care," said Sacandaga on parting with the young men, "and run -no risks for the sake of scalps. What I desire is a knowledge of the -party to which that Huron belonged. I would know how large it is, -where it is camped, and whether it is coming or going. Find out these -things as quickly as may be and come again with thy news. The Maquas -will sleep to-night at the foot of the great rock by the shore of the -wide waters. They will have no fire and will make no sound, but he who -utters the cry of wah-o-nai-sa (the whippoorwill) twice and then once -will be answered by the same cry once and then twice. Go thou and come -again quickly." - -With this Nahma and Grinning Beaver set forth, and were instantly -lost to view in the thickness of the forest. For two hours they sped -forward without a pause, then they began to see spaces of light through -the trees, and the Beaver intimated that they must now exercise the -greatest caution. - -"This trail will not lead us to them," he whispered, "for they will -have moved to one side or the other after their runner left. Let us, -then, go separately to the water's edge, thou on the one side and I -on the other. Whoever reaches the beach first shall utter the cry of -wah-o-nai-sa, and if it be not quickly answered he shall return to see -what is wrong. Is it well?" - -"It is well," replied Nahma, and the two went their respective ways as -agreed. - -With the utmost caution and without a sound louder than his own -breathing did Nahma circle towards the lighted space marking the limit -of the forest. All at once he stopped and listened. From behind him, -faint and distant, he had heard an unmistakable exclamation of surprise. - -It was not repeated nor did he hear further sounds, but it was enough, -and after a moment of listening he started back over the way he had -come. He found the place where he had parted from his companion, and -then followed the slight trail made by the latter. Suddenly and without -warning he came upon a sight so startling that he stood in his tracks -like one petrified, gazing at it with dilated eyes. - -Two warriors locked in a deadly embrace lay motionless on the ground. -Their surroundings were drenched with blood, and to all appearance both -were dead. Nahma stooped over them, and saw to his horror that one of -the faces, so swollen and distorted that he had not sooner recognized -it, was that of his recent comrade. The other was a Huron, and a knife -still clutched by the Beaver's hand was buried to the hilt in his -heart. At the same time his own fingers held the throat of the young -Iroquois with a grip like that of a vise. - -It required all of Nahma's strength to unlock that death-clutch, but at -length he succeeded, and the two mortal foes so recently thrilled with -vigorous life lay side by side stark and rigid. - - - - -CHAPTER IX - -ON THE LAKE - - -Nahma gazed about him in dismay. Night was coming on, he was alone in a -place of which he had no knowledge, and he believed himself surrounded -by enemies. He even fancied he could see dark faces peering at him from -behind the shadowy tree-trunks. Above all, the companion upon whom he -had relied for guidance and counsel lay dead at his feet. Although a -savage himself, accustomed only to savage sights and ways, our lad -had seen so little of death that this last fact seemed incredible. He -kneeled beside the Beaver and gazed into his face, calling him by name -in a low voice and bidding him open his eyes. - -As he did this the dreadful aspect of the face on which he was looking -suggested another that he had seen but a week earlier. It had been that -of a man drowned in the Shatemuc and brought to the lodge of Kaweras. -To all appearance he was dead, and yet the old arrow-maker had restored -him to life. Nahma remembered perfectly what was done at that time, for -he had closely watched every operation, and had even assisted Kaweras -in his efforts. Now, in his despair over the present situation, but -feeling that he could not yield to it without making some attempt at -its betterment, he set to work upon the Beaver exactly as Kaweras had -done with the drowned man. He turned the body on its face, drew forward -the tongue, and cleared the mouth of froth. Then by rolling the body on -its side and back again, at the same time applying a gentle pressure -to back and breast, he forced air into and expelled it again from the -lungs, thus producing an artificial breathing. After that he sought -to restore circulation by rubbing upward along the legs. In all his -efforts he was without hope of success and only worked for the sake of -doing something. He was therefore utterly amazed as well as overjoyed -to detect in his patient a slight gasping for breath. He could scarcely -believe he had heard aright until it was repeated, and then he knew -that the Beaver was still to be counted among those who lived. - -Without thought of the danger from probable enemies, Nahma sprang to -his feet, started towards the lake for water, and had gone half-way -before he recalled that he had nothing in which to fetch it. Upon -this he ran back, and picking up the still unconscious form of his -companion, staggered to the beach with it in his arms. On his way -he ran across a canoe concealed in a clump of bushes, but paid no -attention to it for the moment. - -As he laid his burden on the sand and glanced up to see if they were -still safe from the presence of enemies, he detected a vague form some -distance up the beach that disappeared within the forest even as he -looked. It must of course be a Huron warrior, and doubtless others -were with him. In that case to remain where they were meant certain -destruction, and there was but one way to save his helpless companion -as well as himself. The canoe that he had just discovered would at -least bear them away from the treacherous forest and give them a -fighting chance for their lives in the open. - -In another minute Nahma had launched the light craft, placed his -comrade inside, and was paddling furiously out over the lake. He had -not gone more than one hundred yards when a series of yells from -behind, and a flight of arrows sent with deadly intent, showed that his -escape was discovered. Most of the arrows fell short, and none of them -inflicted any damage. At the same time Nahma, glancing back, thought he -saw other canoes coming down the coast. - -It was now so nearly dark that all objects were indistinct, and if he -could only maintain his lead for a short time longer he might still -evade his pursuers. So the tired youth infused new energy into his -paddling and urged his craft forward with redoubled speed. As he knew -nothing of the lake, he had no idea where to look for the great rock -beside which Sacandaga was to spend the night, nor was the Beaver in -any condition to afford him information. So he held a course as far -as possible from both shores and continued his paddling until nearly -midnight, when he was forced by sheer exhaustion to give it over. - -Dark as was the night, our lad could still distinguish the darker -forms of occasional islands as he passed them, and at length drawing -cautiously in towards one of these, he made a landing. In all this -time the Beaver had been slowly struggling back to life, but he was -still devoid of strength or a knowledge of his surroundings. So Nahma -prepared as well as he could a bed of branches and grass, to which he -bore his comrade. He also dragged up the canoe and turned it on its -side to provide shelter from a drizzle of chill rain that was beginning -to fall. Having completed these simple preparations, the youth ate a -handful of parched corn drawn from his wallet, and lying down beside -the Beaver was almost instantly fast asleep. - -In regard to the necessaries of life the American of that day was in no -degree removed from the beasts of the field. Like them he could thrive -upon the natural products of the forest, and he also found its shelters -sufficient for his needs even in the most inclement weather. With -materials for a feast at hand he feasted; but when they were lacking he -went without food uncomplainingly and for incredible lengths of time. -If in the present instance our lad had dared allow himself the luxury -of a fire he would quickly have acquired all the comforts of a home, -including an abundance of cooked food, a good bed, warmth, and light. -As it was he accepted cold, wet, hunger, and a most uncomfortable -resting-place as things liable to be encountered at any time in the -ordinary course of events. - -The remainder of the night passed without incident, and by dawn Nahma -was once more alert. His first move was to climb a tall tree that stood -close at hand and take a comprehensive survey of the lake. Seeing it -thus for the first time by daylight, he was impressed by its marvellous -beauty. Its blue waters were dotted with islands all wooded and -blending every shade of green. On both sides forest-covered hills rose -abruptly from the shore, and back of them towered mountains higher than -any he had ever seen. The lake was nowhere more than a mile or two in -width, and to the northward it narrowed rapidly. - -Having gazed as long as he dared on the outspread beauties of the -scene, and satisfied himself that nothing was in motion on the face -of the waters, the youth descended from his observatory and proceeded -to make ready a breakfast. He was tired of parched corn, and his -ravenous appetite demanded something more substantial. He even decided -to run the risk of a fire. So he gathered a small quantity of dry, -hard wood that would burn with the least amount of smoke, and, after -an exasperating struggle with flints and tinder, caught a spark that -was finally fanned into a brisk blaze. With the making of a fire the -hardest part of his breakfast-getting was ended, although he had as yet -nothing to cook. Five minutes later, however, he was in possession of a -large pickerel and two good-sized bass, all of which had been enticed -within striking distance of his arrows by a bait of worms. These fish -wrapped in green leaves were buried under a bed of coals, and while -they were cooking Nahma gathered berries. - -When all was in readiness, he was vastly disappointed to find that -his companion was unable to share in the meal. The Beaver had so far -recovered that he was able to sit up and take an intelligent interest -in what was going on. The expression of longing with which he regarded -those baked fish left no doubt that he, too, was hungry; but, alas! he -could not swallow food. His throat was so swollen that he could not -even speak, and he still breathed with difficulty. He was so parched -with thirst that he managed after a painful struggle to swallow a few -drops of water, but that was all. - -So Nahma was reluctantly obliged to eat alone while his companion -watched him enviously. As he ate, the former told what he knew -concerning the events of the preceding evening, and the Beaver learned -for the first time that they were on an island far down the lake in -hiding from a war-party of Hurons. He had wondered at finding himself -alone with Nahma instead of in Sacandaga's company, but had supposed -that they were within a short distance of the great rock, as he knew -had been the case when they first gained the lake-shore. His distress -at being unable to ask questions and express his views on the situation -was so evident as to suggest a possible remedy, upon which Nahma -immediately set to work. First he stripped some sheets of bark from a -white birch, and with them fashioned a rude but water-tight bowl that -would hold about a gallon. This he partially filled with water. In the -mean time he had thrown into the fire some large beach pebbles, and -these were now thoroughly heated. Lifting them with forked sticks and -dropping them into the bowl, he almost instantly had hot water, with -which he bade the Beaver bathe his throat. - -While the latter was doing this Nahma bethought himself to climb once -more into his observatory for another look at the lake. As he gained -the highest available branch and glanced back over the way they had -come he uttered an exclamation of dismay. Not more than two miles -distant was a fleet of canoes advancing directly towards him. He could -plainly see the flash of their paddles and note their movements as -they separated or closed together. There was no doubt but that the -enemy from whom he had fled was again close upon him, and to remain on -that island meant certain discovery, since no Indian would pass a fire -without finding out by whom it had been kindled. To leave the island -and make for the mainland on either side was out of the question, for -their moving canoe would surely be discovered. Thus the only thing -remaining to be done was to proceed straight down the lake, with the -hope of gaining another place of concealment while still hidden by the -island from those who came behind. - -With this plan formed our young warrior hastily descended the tree, -told his companion that the Hurons were again in hot pursuit, and -bundled him into the canoe ere he had time to gain further information. -Then Nahma gave him a paddle and told him that if he valued his life he -must put forth whatever of strength he had remaining. - - - - -CHAPTER X - -AN OKI OF THE WATERS - - -As Nahma had intended remaining on the island until his companion -fully recovered from his injuries, he had not hurried with anything -that he had done that morning. Consequently it was mid-day when the -flight was resumed and the fugitives again headed their canoe down the -lake, keeping the island directly behind them as a screen from their -pursuers. Although working furiously at his paddle, Nahma glanced -behind him every few moments, and as time passed was amazed that the -enemy did not come into sight. - -At length, after a couple of hours of incessant labor, the canoe -rounded a bold headland that nearly cut the lake in twain, and was -hidden behind it from any who might be following. Here the lake was -very narrow, and Nahma proposed that they should run the canoe ashore, -hide it, and seek to rejoin their friends by land. - -"No," said the Beaver, who had recovered his power of speech. "If the -Hurons are following us, they will surely have scouts in the forest on -both sides. We should be certain to fall in with these, and I am not -yet ready for fighting. Now that we have come thus far by water, let -us keep on. At a short distance from here this lake ends, but it is -joined to another much larger. On that other a canoe may go north even -to the country of the Hurons. It may also go south to the land of the -Iroquois. Let us, then, find the big water and turn to the south, for -if those following us be Hurons they will certainly hold a course to -the northward." - -"We will do as my brother says," replied Nahma, delighted to have -again the counsel of his more experienced companion. So the course -of the canoe was continued, but only Nahma now wielded a paddle. The -Beaver had been so much benefited by hot-water applications and by the -subsequent exercise of paddling that his throat was again serviceable. -Not only could he talk but he believed he could eat, and as Nahma had -brought along one of the three fish caught for breakfast, he made the -attempt with such gratifying success that it quickly disappeared. Being -thus refreshed and strengthened, he began to question his companion -concerning the events of the preceding night. - -When Nahma related the finding of the two mortal enemies clutched in a -death-grapple the Beaver said,-- - -"It is so. As I saw the Huron he saw me, and we sprang at each other -with our knives, for we were too close to use bows or even the -tomahawk. His knife broke, and as I drove mine into his body his -fingers closed about my throat. Ugh! It was the grip of a bear, and I -could not loose it. Again and again did I bury my knife in his heart, -but he would not let go. Then all became black and I died. How my -brother brought me back from the place of Okis [departed spirits] I -know not, but when next I awoke he lay beside me under a canoe and a -band as of fire was about my head. Now, therefore, the life of Grinning -Beaver belongs to his brother. But tell me quickly how knew you we were -pursued by Hurons? There were traces of but two of them, while many of -our own people were to meet Sacandaga at the great rock." - -"I know that our pursuers are Hurons, or at least enemies, because they -crept on us by stealth. Also when they saw we had escaped they yelled -with rage and shot arrows to kill us. Besides that, they followed after -us in canoes, and but for the coming of darkness would surely have -overtaken us." - -"Is it certain that they shot after us with arrows?" - -"It is certain, for one of them struck the canoe and lies even yet -where it fell. So my brother may see for himself and know that I have -spoken truly." - -The Beaver plucked the arrow thus indicated from the sheathing of the -canoe in which its point was embedded and examined it closely. As he -did so a puzzled expression came over his face, and he exclaimed,-- - -"But this is not a Huron arrow! It is of the Iroquois, and might have -been made by Kaweras himself. Look. As a bowman thou shouldst know this -fashion of feathering." - -"I do know it," replied Nahma, taking the proffered arrow as he spoke -and studying its make. "Also I should have recognized it sooner had I -looked, but it fell in darkness, and since then I have been too busy to -recall it until now." - -"If this was the only style of arrow aimed at us," continued the -Beaver, "those who pursue us must be friends, who have in turn mistaken -us for enemies." - -"It would seem so," agreed Nahma, in a mortified tone, "and it is to my -shame that I should have shown so great stupidity." - -"Take it not to heart, my brother. No warrior may learn his trade save -by experience. What you have done has been well done, and no harm has -come of it. Only now that we know those behind us to be friends, we -must look sharply for enemies in front and see that our friends come -not upon them unaware." - -"Shall we not turn back at once," asked Nahma, "and give to Sacandaga a -warning of the true state of affairs?" - -"Not at once, but presently," replied the Beaver, "for we are even -now close to the great waters of which I spoke. It will be well, -therefore, if we take a look at them before turning back. We may thus -have news to report that will cause him to rejoice at sight of us." - -During this conversation Nahma had continued to paddle easily, and the -canoe had glided gently forward with the current of a forest-shaded -stream forming an outlet to the lake they had just traversed. As the -Beaver concluded his remarks the roar of falling waters ahead of them -gave warning that their farther progress in this direction was barred. -So the canoe was left cunningly as though it had drifted to that place, -and the two young scouts made their way through a mile-wide strip of -forest to the shore of a second lake that lay behind. Here they gazed -eagerly out over the wide water-way, but for a moment saw nothing -unusual. As they were about to venture into the open, Nahma checked the -movement with a guarded exclamation of amazement. A human figure had -suddenly appeared on the crest of a headland that jutted into the lake -a short distance from them, and for several seconds it stood motionless -in the full light of the westering sun, as though spell-bound by the -beauty of the outspread landscape. - -Although it presented the form of man, it was unlike anything either of -the astonished observers had ever seen. It appeared twice the size of -an ordinary man, and at certain points it glinted in the sunlight with -a sheen like that of rippling waters. Its head, upon which the sunlight -also flashed, was of huge proportions and apparently devoid of hair. - -"It is an Oki," whispered the Beaver, apprehensively. "A god of the -waters. See you not how he shines with wetness?" - -Even as the Beaver spoke, a second figure appeared for an instant -beside the one at which the awe-stricken youths were gazing. It was -that of a man like themselves, half-naked, painted, and bedecked with -feathers. This last apparition plucked the other by the arm and they -disappeared together. - -Our young scouts looked at each other in wonderment. "We must know more -of this affair," said the Beaver. "Let us move in that direction and -see what may be found." - -A few minutes later, moving with the utmost caution, they had reached a -point from which they could look beyond the headland. There they beheld -a scene that held their gaze with breathless interest, and, crouching -beneath the overhanging branches of a thick-growing spruce, they -watched it in silence. - -The sun was setting and its light was growing dim, but they could -see a fleet of canoes drawn up on the lake-shore, and beyond them -many men moving busily about a large cleared space. They could not -discover among these the strange figure that had first attracted their -attention, nor was there any glow of fire-light. - -The Beaver drew in his breath as though about to speak, but Nahma -checked him with warning hand, and at the same instant a twig snapped -directly behind them. The young scouts dared not so much as move their -heads, but from the corners of their eyes they caught glimpses of four -shadowy forms that flitted noiselessly by and vanished in the direction -from which they themselves had come. They were Hurons seeking to make -certain before the complete shutting in of night that no enemy lurked -in the vicinity of their camp. - -For several minutes after these had passed our lads remained motionless -and silent. Then the Beaver rose and moved without a sound in the -direction taken by the Huron scouts, while Nahma, his nerves tense with -excitement, followed the lead thus given. Neither spoke until finally -they came again to the place where they had left their canoe. To their -dismay, it was gone, but the Beaver said in a whisper,-- - -"It is well for us that it is of Huron make, so that they may think it -was left by those of their own people who were sent ahead. Now let us -find Sacandaga, for we have much to tell him." - -The task of making their unlit way back along the shore of the stream -they had so recently descended without effort was beset with many -difficulties. They must keep close to the river, for not only was -it their guide but by it sooner or later their friends were almost -certain to pass. They must thread the forest mazes in silence, and they -must pause with every minute to listen for the dip of paddles. Even -then Sacandaga's canoes might drift by them unseen and unheard. But a -warning must be given, if such a thing were possible, and in spite of -all obstacles they pushed steadily forward. - -At length they came to a place where the stream began to broaden. They -had gained the lower end of Andia-ta-roc-te and dared go no farther. So -they waited while Nahma uttered full and clear the plaintive call of -the whippoorwill. Twice did he repeat it, and then once more after a -brief interval. - - - - -CHAPTER XI - -THE COMING OF SACANDAGA - - -As the concluding notes of Nahma's cry echoed over the still waters and -were lost among the distant hills, the two youths listened anxiously -for an answer. Nor had they long to wait, for within a minute the call -of a whippoorwill came back to them almost exactly as the young warrior -had uttered it; but it came from the wrong direction. - -"Sacandaga has passed us after all," muttered Nahma in a tone of -vexation. - -"Not so," replied the Beaver, "for that was not the answer agreed upon. -Do you not remember? The call was to be two and then one, while the -answer was to be one and then two. This answer came back even as the -call was given, and so could not have been made by Sacandaga or any of -his warriors." - -"Who, then----?" began Nahma, but he was interrupted by a quavering -note of ko-ko-anse (the little screech-owl) that came from no great -distance. - -"It is a Huron call," whispered the Beaver; "answer it quickly." This -Nahma did, and the Beaver continued, "They are on the water and will -come to this point for further information. Do you remain here and take -care that they discover not thy presence. I will retire a little and -entice them or some of them to me, for I can speak the Huron tongue. -After that we must be guided by what will follow. Is it well?" - -"It is well," whispered Nahma, as he crouched low beside a log, one -end of which extended into the water. He did not hear the Beaver take -his departure, but knew that he was gone. Then from off the river, -but close at hand, came again the tremulous cry of ko-ko-anse. It was -answered by the Beaver from a short distance inland, who in a voice -disguised as though by weakness cried,-- - -"Help me, brothers. Help me before I die." - -"Who calls?" inquired a voice from the water. - -"A Huron scout sorely wounded and helpless," answered the Beaver. - -"Is he alone?" - -"He is alone. There was another with him, but he was killed two days -since. Help or I perish." - -"Art thou Chebacno or Wabensickewa?" - -"I am Wabensickewa. Chebacno was slain by the Iroquois, who are even -now making ready a war-party. I hastened back to bring news of it, and -landed here to rest until darkness. While I slept a panther leaped on -my back. Before I could kill him he had so injured me that I cannot -walk. Also are my eyes blinded so that I cannot see. I have a canoe -that you will find at the water's edge, if indeed the wind has not -drifted it away. I have called many times, and was about to give over -calling when your answer came to lend me new strength. Now, then, my -brothers, come quickly, for I have much to tell before I die." - -A moment later Nahma felt a slight jar pass through the log against -which he lay and heard a few whispered words of consultation. Then two -figures stepped ashore and, passing so close to him that he could have -touched them, noiselessly entered the forest. He waited for a moment -and then cautiously lifted his head. Against the faint gleam of water -he could distinguish the black bulk of a canoe and see that it still -held two other figures who sat motionless. Slowly he raised his bow -with a stone-headed arrow fitted to its string until one of the sitting -figures was fairly covered. Then he waited with tense muscles and a -heart that seemed like to burst with its furious beating. From behind -him came a low moaning that he knew was made by the Beaver to deceive -his enemies. - -Suddenly the oppressive silence was broken by the twang of a bowstring -that was instantly followed by fierce yells. High above these rose the -defiant war-cry of the Iroquois, but its last note was cut short and -ended in a choking gurgle. - -Somehow Nahma managed to hear these things, though he was at the same -time intensely busy with affairs of his own. At the first intimation of -a struggle behind him he had let fly his ready arrow, and one of the -two figures in the canoe dropped heavily forward. The other, seeing -what he had supposed was a log suddenly endowed with life and leaping -towards him, uttered a cry of terror, sprang overboard, and disappeared -beneath the black waters. While Nahma tossed the limp form of the other -Huron from the canoe preparatory to going in pursuit of this swimmer, a -rustling among the bushes warned him to make good his own escape while -yet he might, and giving the canoe a great shove, he leaped aboard. - -As the craft shot out into the open a voice hailed it from the shore; -but as the words were spoken in the Huron tongue, Nahma made no answer. -He hesitated for a moment, wondering whether it might not be the Beaver -who called; but with a repetition of the demand he knew that that was -not the case. He was confirmed in this belief by hearing a slight -splash from close at hand, a stifled exclamation, and a few whispered -words. Evidently the swimmer who had made so hasty an exit from the -canoe had been encouraged by the voice of a friend to gain the land, -and now the two were once more in communication. - -What had become of the Beaver? Recalling the Iroquois war-cry and -its sadly suggestive ending, Nahma had little doubt that he had been -overcome and killed. He hated to think of deserting his comrade without -knowing for a certainty whether he were alive or dead, and yet to -attempt a landing in face of two enemies, and perhaps three, would be -an act of folly. His canoe had drifted out so far that they could not -see him in his present position, but it would be almost impossible to -gain the shore anywhere in that vicinity without detection. - -While in this state of indecision, which in reality lasted but a few -seconds, he heard faint and far away the cry of a whippoorwill. Twice -was it uttered, and then again after a short interval. It must be the -signal of Sacandaga, since it came from up the lake. Doubtless it had -been made in answer to the Beaver's far-reaching war-cry. In another -moment Nahma's canoe, impelled by a noiseless paddle, was speeding in -that direction. He dared not at once reply to the signal for fear of -drawing a flight of Huron arrows; but as soon as he believed himself -beyond range of these he rested on his paddle and sent far across the -lake the vibrant cry of wah-o-nai-sa once and then twice. - -A full minute elapsed before the answer came, and then he was startled -by its nearness. Had he not known better, he would have sworn that -it was uttered by a bird in flight while passing directly above him. -Allowing his craft to drift, he listened and heard the quick dip of -many paddles. A fleet of canoes was rushing towards him, and, as he -began to distinguish their vague outlines, he uttered a low call to -attract attention. - -"Who is it?" demanded the voice of Sacandaga, sharply, as the speed of -the oncoming canoes was checked. - -"It is Massasoit," answered the lad. - -"Where is Grinning Beaver, thy companion? Did he utter the war-cry of -the Iroquois that came to us as we were entering our canoes for a night -of travel?" - -"I fear the Beaver is dead," replied Nahma. "And if so, he was killed -even with the sounding of his war-cry." - -"Who killed him?" demanded Sacandaga, fiercely. - -"The Hurons." - -"How many are there?" - -"Only four did we encounter. Of these I saw one fall, and believe that -the Beaver, who was separated from me, killed another. One leaped into -the water and one I know escaped from the Beaver." - -"Were you on land or on the water?" - -"We were on land, and this is the canoe in which the Hurons came." - -"Where did it happen?" - -"At the beginning of a river that leads to the wide waters lying -towards the rising sun." - -"What know you of these wide waters? Have you been to them?" - -"Shortly before the coming of darkness were we there, and we turned -back to bring news of the war-party that we saw." - -"Hurons?" - -"Hurons, my father, and like the leaves of a tree for numbers. Also -they have with them an Oki to make timid the hearts of their enemies." - -"What mean you by an Oki?" - -With this Nahma described as well as he could the strange being seen by -himself and the Beaver, and all who could get within hearing listened -to his words with breathless attention. When Nahma declared that the -apparition, though seen on a headland, still gleamed with wetness as -though just emerged from the lake, his auditors were deeply impressed. -Only Sacandaga was incredulous, and appeared to treat the incident as -of small account. - -"It is but a Huron trick!" he exclaimed, that all might hear. "They are -too cowardly to fight like men, but have prepared an image with the -hope that sight of it will turn our blood to water. It is well, though, -that we have learned of this thing and know what to expect. Now let us -find whether the Beaver is alive or dead, and if the Huron dogs have -indeed slain him, bitterly shall he be avenged before we are done with -them." - -So Nahma guided the Iroquois canoes to the place where he had uttered -that first fateful call of the whippoorwill, and Sacandaga, with half -a dozen warriors, made a landing on the very log beside which he had -lain. - -It took them but a few minutes to discover the body of their late -comrade cold in death and scalped; but there was no trace of those who -had perpetrated the deed. If he had indeed killed one of them, the -others had either hidden the body or taken it away. - -Having learned these things and thirsting for vengeance, the Iroquois -re-entered their canoes and glided silently down-stream towards the -place where their enemies were encamped. - - - - -CHAPTER XII - -A MEETING OF DEADLY FOES - - -After carrying their canoes around the two waterfalls that obstruct -the outlet of Lake George, the Iroquois finally glided like so many -night-shadows out onto the surface of Lake Champlain. Then, guided by -the son of Longfeather, they approached the place where he had seen -the Hurons. Sacandaga had entered the canoe of the young scout that he -might learn more fully what had happened during the past two days; also -his place was in the leading canoe, that from it he might direct the -movements of his followers, who were now nearly two hundred in number. - -He had thought of attempting a night surprise of the northern invaders -by attacking their camp under cover of darkness; but this plan was -dismissed almost as soon as formed, for he remembered the prophecy of -Kaweras. The fight in which the Iroquois were to be successful must -take place in broad daylight and on a fair morning. The battle might -not, therefore, be waged at night, nor even on the morrow, unless it -were a day of cloudless sunshine. At the same time the Hurons must be -given no chance for escape, and to compel them to remain where they -were he stationed his force at the mouth of the cove in which lay their -fleet. This position was taken in silence and, it was thought, without -attracting attention. - -That the men from the north had, however, received notice of their -enemies' coming and were keenly on the alert to meet them was soon -proved by a jeering hail from the land. - -"Are the bark-eaters fish that they remain in the water? If they call -themselves men, why do they not come on shore and accept the welcome -awaiting them?" - -To this taunt the Iroquois replied with a chorus of fierce yells and -savage intimations of what would happen when they got ready to enter -the camp of the Huron dogs. - -So the night was spent in a brisk exchange of taunts, jeers, threats, -and insulting remarks well calculated to increase the bitterness of -the hate already existing between the two tribes. The Iroquois even -betrayed their knowledge of the mysterious being whom the Hurons had -called to their aid, and expressed the utmost contempt for him. To this -those on shore made no reply except to advise the Iroquois to call upon -their own gods for the aid they would surely need on the morrow. - -"Something has given them courage," remarked Sacandaga, "for never have -I known Hurons to talk so bravely in the presence of Iroquois. But we -will see whether their boldness can stand the test of daylight." - -At length the wished-for dawn arrived, and by its earliest gleams -Sacandaga landed his force at a point beyond arrow-shot of the Huron -camp and bade them light fires for the preparation of breakfast. He was -well aware of the fighting value of a full stomach, and was too wise a -leader not to seek every possible advantage even against a foe whom he -despised. - -Nor were the Hurons less ready to make the most of this opportunity for -preparing cooked food, the first time they had dared do so in several -days. Thus both parties remained hidden from each other, except through -the eyes of their watchful scouts, until the sun was an hour high. Not -only did Sacandaga wish to refresh his men by this rest, but he was -determined not to begin fighting until assured of conditions propitious -to his undertaking. With the weather, however, he had every reason to -be pleased, for never was a fairer morn. The sky was cloudless, the air -clear and crisp, the lake of a heavenly blue, and all nature was at its -best. As he looked about him he became elated over the certainty of his -forthcoming victory. - -"The Hurons have never yet been able to stand before an equal number of -Iroquois," he said, "and to-day with all things in our favor it will -be strange indeed if we do not wipe them out. But we may not delay, -lest the spirits become angry and send their lightnings to punish our -indifference to the favors they have shown. Let us, then, get to work -and finish this business quickly, that we may the more speedily return -to our own people." - -Although Sacandaga was one of the most skilful warriors of his time, -and well versed in all the tricks of his trade as practised by forest -fighters, he saw fit in the present instance to lead his painted -savages to the attack in a compact body. As the Hurons occupied the -centre of a large cleared space so wide as to place them beyond the -reach of arrows from forest covers, this plan was in a measure forced -upon him. At the same time he hoped to overawe the enemy and terrify -him by the number and ferocious appearance of his followers. So the -Iroquois, half naked, painted, befeathered, decked with bears' claws -and wolf-tails, dashed from the forest yelling and brandishing their -weapons, and advanced with a rush to where the Hurons awaited them. - -The latter appeared terrified, and seemed to shrink from the impending -onslaught. Then their solid formation broke, leaving a wide gap, -from which stepped a single figure. The Iroquois were not more than -fifty paces distant; but at sight of this apparition they came to a -sudden halt and stood as though petrified with amazement. The figure -confronting them was indeed that described by Massasoit, only it loomed -up larger than they had expected, and gleamed with a dazzling lustre in -the bright sunlight. It had the form of a man, but its face was covered -with a growth of hair that hung down on its breast. - -The person who appeared so remarkable to the denizens of the forest -that they deemed him a god was none other than the intrepid French -explorer Samuel de Champlain, founder of the city of Quebec. With but -two followers he had been induced to accompany a war-party of Canadian -Indians on their foray into Iroquois territory, and was thus the first -of his race to look upon the waters of the noble lake that has ever -since borne his name. - -For a few moments the Iroquois gazed awe-stricken upon this first white -man they had ever seen. Then, relying upon the prophecy of Kaweras, -that only thunder and lightning could prevent them from winning a -victory, they bent their bows and let fly a cloud of arrows. Many of -these were aimed at the white man standing so boldly before them, -but, to their dismay, he remained unharmed. Nahma in particular, who -had shot at the very centre of the shining breastplate, was amazed and -terrified to see his arrow, after striking, bound back as though it had -encountered a wall of rock. - -But scant time was given for the consideration of this marvel; for, -even as they shot at him, the mysterious being brought into position -a strange-looking stick that he carried until it was pointed directly -at them. Then came a flash of lightning, a roar of thunder, a cloud of -smoke, and a dozen of the Iroquois fell to the ground as though smitten -by the wrath of God. As was afterwards proved, but two of them were -killed and one--Sacandaga--was grievously wounded, while the others had -fallen from sheer fright. At the same time the Hurons rushed forward -with triumphant yells and a flight of arrows. - -For a moment the Iroquois wavered and seemed about to fly. Then Nahma, -son of Longfeather, sprang to the front with a loud cry, and, swinging -a stone war-club above his head, made straight for the thunder-god -who had wrought such havoc. Champlain was in the act of drawing his -sword when he was staggered by a terrific blow that would surely have -killed him but for the steel cap that he wore. Before he could recover, -and ere a second blow could be delivered, there came another flash of -lightning accompanied by its thunderous roar from a clump of bushes at -one side, and two more Iroquois were stricken with sudden death. - -At this fresh proof that the all-powerful spirits were indeed fighting -against them the hearts of the Iroquois melted, and they fled from the -field a panic-stricken mob. Even Nahma joined in the mad flight; but he -paused long enough to pick up his wounded chieftain, whom he hoped to -be able to carry as far as the canoes. - -At their heels streamed the exultant Hurons, striking down the -fugitives by the score. One of these drove a spear through the body of -Sacandaga; and Nahma, staggering under his burden, was knocked down by -the force of the blow. As he disengaged himself from the dead sachem -and regained his feet he found himself once more face to face with the -awful being who held in his hands the thunders and lightning of a -Manitou. - -At this moment Champlain, who had found time to reload his musket, -fired a second shot into the ranks of the flying Iroquois. Ere -its smoke could lift, Nahma, frenzied with rage and reckless of -consequences, sprang upon the white man with uplifted knife. The -blow was urged with all the splendid strength of the young warrior's -arm, but it only bent the copper blade in his grasp and left him -defenceless. Ere he could renew his flight he was flung to the earth -and bound immovably with thongs of tough bark. - -[Illustration: NAHMA SPRANG UPON THE WHITE MAN WITH UPLIFTED KNIFE] - -Nahma's first battle was ended in utter defeat, but he did not feel -humiliated, for he believed that he had fought against immortal spirits -who could come to no harm from the hands of man. He only wondered -vaguely, as he lay awaiting the pleasure of his captors, why the Okis -should have ranged themselves on the side of the perfidious Hurons -instead of aiding the Iroquois, whom he then believed to be the most -nearly perfect of human beings. - -About one-half the force that Sacandaga had led so confidently to -battle that morning reached the canoes and continued their flight -up the lake. The Hurons did not pursue them, for they were too busy -killing or taking captive those who were left behind. - -By noon the whole affair was ended, and the triumphant Hurons, taking -with them twoscore of dejected prisoners, as many bloody Iroquois -scalps, and a number of canoes laden with spoils, set forth on their -return to the St. Lawrence. - -With them went Champlain, still thrilled with the excitement of -fighting and killing, but already disgusted with the barbarities of -his savage allies. Could he have foreseen that his act of that day had -created a powerful enemy who for two hundred years to come would let -pass no opportunity for the killing of a Frenchman, his thoughts would -have been still more sombre. - -In camp that night, while still occupied with his melancholy -reflections, he was accosted by one of his white companions, who said,-- - -"Look yonder, monsieur. They are about to punish in pretty fashion the -young devil who twice this day attempted to take thy life." - - - - -CHAPTER XIII - -TO THE LODGES OF THE WHITE MAN - - -Realizing that for some reason the all-powerful white man who had that -day given them a victory over their enemies was displeased, the Hurons -agreed after a long consultation that it must be because the only -one among the Iroquois who had dared attack him was still allowed to -live. So, although such pleasures were generally reserved for their -home-returning, they determined to sacrifice the audacious young -warrior on the spot with the hope of thus regaining the favor of their -allies. In order that he might thoroughly comprehend what was in store -for him, they decided that he should first witness the torture of one -of his companions. For this purpose a victim was selected at random -from among the captives, and the two young men, facing each other, were -securely bound to saplings standing but a few yards apart. - -About the feet of each was piled a quantity of dry wood, and they were -ordered to chant their death-songs if they dared. The Maqua immediately -began in defiant tones to recount his own deeds of prowess on the -war-path, and tell how many Hurons he had slain. He hurled defiance at -his enemies, taunted them with their cowardice, and sought to so enrage -them that they would kill him at once; but Nahma remained dumb. He had -no deeds to tell of, nor was he in a humor to invent any. - -Suddenly the Hurons made a rush at the one who thus defied them, and -for a few minutes a fierce struggle raged about the helpless form. When -next it appeared in view its scalp had been torn off, while the still -living body was gashed and mutilated almost beyond recognition; but -defiant words still issued chokingly from its trembling lips. The poor -mortal frame was nearly spent, but its brave spirit was undaunted. The -next act of torture was by fire. Blazing splinters of fat pine were -thrust into the mangled body and hot ashes were poured on its bleeding -head. Then a light was applied to the dry wood, and in another minute -the eager flames were leaping high about their victim. - -The awful tragedy was accompanied by shrieks of laughter, mocking -yells, and a frantic dancing about the two young warriors, one of whom -was thus made to serve as a hideous object lesson to the other. When -the first was so nearly dead that his defiant utterances were reduced -to mere gaspings for breath, the dancing demons turned their attention -to the second victim, and prepared to inflict upon him a series of -still more devilish torments. - -Nahma had witnessed everything with fascinated gaze; but though -sickened to the point of fainting, had made no movement nor uttered a -sound to betray the agony of his thoughts. He now knew what to expect, -and was nerving himself to endure to the end, as became a warrior. -Aeana would never know, of course; but if by any chance the story of -his last hour should reach her ear, she must have no excuse to call him -"squaw." - -One of his tormentors approached with a bar of iron heated until it -glowed; for, through trading with the French, this metal was now known -to the Indians of the St. Lawrence valley. - -"Put out his eyes," shouted a spectator. "He has seen enough." - -As the glowing iron approached his face Nahma instinctively closed -his eyes; but a yell of derision from those near enough to note the -movement caused him to open them again quickly. But even in that brief -space something had happened, for the first thing on which they rested -was a gigantic figure bounding towards him. It uttered inarticulate -cries of rage and brandished a weapon. With a single blow from this -it dashed to earth the man bearing the red-hot iron. Falling on his -own instrument of torture, the wretch uttered a yell of pain as it -seared his flesh. At the same moment the terrible new-comer levelled -his weapon at the mutilated form bound to the opposite stake, and -with a flash of lightning accompanied by a stunning burst of thunder, -instantly freed the tortured spirit from its misery. - -Before the smoke of the discharge cleared away the new-comer was beside -Nahma, cutting savagely at his bonds. As the last one dropped he -grasped the young warrior by an arm and led him a few paces from the -cruel stake. Then turning to the sullen Hurons, who shrank from the -indignant blaze of his eyes, he denounced them in bitter terms. - -"You are worse than wolves," he cried. "You are scum and _canaille_. -You are devils, and should be made to dwell forever in a pit of fire. -Because you go forth to fight against a man and he meets you bravely, -is that a reason for torturing him when the fortune of war has placed -him helpless in your hands? This youth was the only one of all his -people who dared attack me face to face and hand to hand. Better still, -he was the only Iroquois brave enough to attempt the succor of their -wounded chieftain. He is fleet of foot and might easily have escaped, -but he would not go alone. So he fell into your inhuman hands, and as -a reward for his bravery you propose to torture him to death. Bah! You -make me so sick that I have a mind to sever all connection with you -from this hour, and order my men to beat you from my sight with sticks. -Now remember that this youth is _my_ captive, and whoever touches so -much as a hair of his head shall die, for I will not have him harmed. - -"Come, lad, with me," added Champlain, turning to Nahma; "you shall eat -and rest, and after that if you desire to return to your own people -you shall be free to do so. Only it would please me to have you remain -a little for instruction in the ways of white men and the making of a -better acquaintance between us, for I have taken a fancy to you beyond -any that I have yet entertained for a native of this wilderness." - -Although Nahma understood no word of what the marvellous stranger said, -he recognized the friendly tone and gesture, and was quite willing to -follow wherever the other might lead. As they were about to move away a -chief of the Hurons stood in the path and begged for a hearing. - -"It is true," he said, "that we would have killed this young man; but -it is because we thought our white father angry that he still lived. -Also is it true that in any case we should have put him to death on -reaching the place of our own people. We must have done this, for if -we should let him live he would sooner or later make an escape, and -in escaping would surely kill some of our people. It is because he is -a brave warrior that we could not let him live to do us mischief. If -he were a coward, then could we make of him a slave to hoe corn with -the squaws; but with a brave man this might not be done. Also because -of his bravery would we have tested him by fire, that he might give -proof of his courage to the very end of his life. Any brave man, Huron -or Iroquois, would rather perish at the stake than live the life of -a slave. It is our way, and if it be not also the way of our white -father, let him not cover us with shame on account of it, for we have -not yet learned one that is better." - -"You have spoken well," answered Champlain, "and already am I penitent -for my hasty words, since, as you say, you were only acting according -to your conception of what is right. Therefore I forgive you and will -continue to extend the hand of friendship. At the same time, see you to -it that no more atrocities are enacted in my presence. Also see to it -that this youth is accorded the respect due him over whom my protection -is extended." - -So it came to pass that Nahma, son of Longfeather, now known as -Massasoit the Iroquois, was saved from a dreadful death to become the -companion of the first white man he had ever met, who was also one of -the foremost adventurers of his age. - -Although Champlain had laid aside his steel armor, he was still so -utterly different in appearance from any person Nahma had ever seen -that the latter continued to regard him as a supernatural being, and -accompanied him with much trepidation. Also the youth was dazed by the -peril he had just escaped and the strangeness of his deliverance. - -As they went towards Champlain's own camp-fire, Nahma noticed for the -first time that two more of the strange beings walked close beside -them; and, listening to their conversation, though of course without -understanding it, he all at once became convinced that they were indeed -human like himself. Moreover, it flashed into his mind that they must -be of that white race concerning which he had heard much talk in the -lodge of Kaweras. By that shrewd Indian the apparently meaningless -words repeated by Nahma during his illness had been conjectured to -belong to the vocabulary of white men, and he had said as much to his -young guest. Thinking of these things and acting upon a sudden impulse, -just as they reached Champlain's separate camp Nahma exclaimed,-- - -"Hillo!" - -The three white men stared at him in amazement. - -"Sacre!" added the young warrior. - -"What have we here?" cried Champlain. "A savage from the interior -wilderness speaking both English and French. It is incredible.--My -young friend, who taught you the tongues of the Old World? Where have -you met white men?" - -"Mass, I saw it," remarked Nahma. He was well pleased at the effect -of the words already used, but looked for a still greater exhibition -of amazement on the part of his hearers at this final utterance. To -his disappointment, they only gazed blankly and evidently without -understanding. - -"That is evidently a native word, and must be his own name," said -Champlain. "Massasoit. It hath a pleasing sound and fits well his -aspect. Not only has he proved himself to be braver than any of his -fellows, but he hath a look of superior intelligence. For these -things I had thought to afford him opportunity of escaping during the -night, and so of making his way back to his own people. Now, however, -he has so aroused my interest and curiosity with his fluency in -foreign tongues that I cannot afford to loose him until we are better -acquainted. See to it, therefore, that he does not escape." - -Thus Nahma, who if he had held his tongue would have been set free, -was still retained as a captive and borne northward by the victorious -Hurons. The journey down the lake, through the rapid Richelieu, and -over the broad flood of the mighty St. Lawrence was full of interest -and novel sensations to our lad. None of them was, however, to be -compared with the wonder and amazement that filled his soul on the -evening of the tenth day of travel, when they came to Quebec, and he -gazed for the first time on the lodges of white men. - - - - -CHAPTER XIV - -TWO INMATES OF A GUARD-HOUSE - - -Samuel de Champlain was one of the most daring and persistent of -explorers in the New World. Before coming of age he visited the West -Indies and Mexico, going down the Pacific coast of the latter country -as far as Panama. Then as he crossed the isthmus he conceived the idea, -which he afterwards made public, of a ship canal that should connect -the two oceans. His next voyage, inspired by the published narrative of -Jacques Cartier, carried him into the St. Lawrence and up that mighty -river as far as Hochelaga (Montreal), which point Cartier had also -reached nearly seventy years earlier. - -Champlain subsequently explored the coasts of Canada and New England, -helped to found the unfortunate settlements of St. Croix and Port -Royal, and sailed to the southward as far as Cape Cod. On his way he -stopped in Boston harbor, which he describes as being filled with -heavily wooded islands. He also discovered the Charles River, and named -it Riviere du Guast. On the following day he took refuge from a gale -in Plymouth harbor, which he named Port St. Louis, and which he thus -visited long before the Pilgrims landed on its shores. - -After spending some years on the coast and crossing the Atlantic -several times, the energetic Frenchman again entered the St. Lawrence -and sailed as far as Stadaconie, where Cartier first and after him -Roberval had planted ill-starred and short-lived settlements. At this -point Champlain determined to establish a base from which to explore -the vast regions that, hidden in savage mystery, stretched away -indefinitely on all sides. It should also be head-quarters for the -greatest fur trade the world had ever known, and for the religious -institutions from which he hoped to spread Christianity among the -heathen. - -Here, then, on a narrow strand at the foot of towering cliffs, he set -his men to work, and before the summer was ended they had erected three -spacious buildings, enclosed them within a stout palisade, planted -defensive batteries, dug a moat around the whole, cleared land for a -garden, and opened up a trade with the neighboring Indians. Thus was -begun a city destined to become one of the most important of the New -World, and to it Champlain gave the name of Quebec, which was his -pronunciation of a native word signifying a narrowing of the river. - -In Quebec, twenty-seven years later, the great Frenchman died, leaving -behind him a record of adventure and achievement such as but few others -could show. He had succeeded where many had failed, and had established -an empire in the New World. He had crossed the ocean more than a score -of times to make himself equally welcome in the court circles of -France and beside the council-fires of Huron warriors. He had explored -the Ottawa to its head-waters, crossed the divide to Lake Nipissing, -descended to Georgian Bay, and was the first white man to gaze upon the -inland sea that he named Lake Huron. He next discovered Lake Ontario, -crossed it in a bark canoe, and penetrated the Iroquois country as far -as the site of Syracuse. In the beautiful lake that bears his name he -has an enduring monument. He started on the journey that ended on Lake -Champlain with the hope, then common to all explorers, of discovering -a western passage to China, and only failed because he could not find -what did not exist. Instead of it, he discovered, saved from an awful -death, and carried to Quebec the youth who was to become known to the -world as Massasoit, chief of the Wampanoags. - -Champlain had long been looking for some young Indian of intelligence -and proved courage whom he might teach to speak his own language, -attach to his person, and employ to advantage in his proposed -explorations. In Nahma he believed he had found all the desired -qualities, and, what was still better, the youth, being an Iroquois, -would never join any Huron conspiracy against the French. The shrewd -adventurer was therefore greatly pleased with his prize and impatient -to begin his training. At the same time he found his Huron allies so -jealous of his liking for an Iroquois, that while he remained in their -company he dared not treat his captive with any marked attention. He -saw that Nahma was provided with food, and would not permit him to be -beaten or abused, as were some of the prisoners, but that was all. He -dared not even have the youth in his own canoe, much as he wished to -gain his confidence. Thus, Nahma saw but little of his white companions -on the weary journey that finally ended at Quebec. - -At the mouth of the Richelieu the victorious war-party disbanded, the -larger number, together with most of the prisoners, going up the St. -Lawrence towards their homes on the Ottawa, and only half a dozen -canoes of Montagnais, who dwelt on the Saguenay, followed Champlain -down the great river. As these came within sight of Quebec they raised -a triumphant war-song and plied their paddles with redoubled energy, -while Champlain and the other white men discharged their muskets in -token of victory. This was the first news of their absent leader -received by the anxious garrison since his departure, and in their joy -over his safe return they gave him a thunderous welcome from their -cannon. - -Not only did this dreadful sound nearly paralyze poor Nahma, but it -so terrified a small party of Indians who were trading within the -fort that they rushed from it in dismay, took to their canoes, and -paddled off with all speed. So precipitate was their flight that they -left behind one of their number, who in his terror had leaped from a -second-story window of the trading house and broken a leg. - -Champlain had left his infant colony in charge of Pierre Chauvin, a -smart young officer, who now met him outside the palisades with tidings -that caused an instant change of plan. The only ship that would return -to France that year had dropped down to Tadousac for a lading of furs -but two days earlier. For a moment Champlain hesitated, and then his -mind was made up. He must board that ship before she sailed, for he had -despatches of the utmost importance to send home by her. Thus he must -immediately hasten to Tadousac. This decision he imparted to Chauvin, -adding,-- - -"I will shortly return, and until then take thou good care of this -youth." Here the speaker indicated Nahma. "See that he escape not, for -his security is of importance to our cause. Keep him, then, safely -until I come again, when I will inform thee further concerning him. _Au -revoir, mon ami._ May the saints protect thee." - -Thus saying, Champlain rejoined his Indian allies, who were impatient -to be off, and in another minute was again sweeping down the great -river. By his order Nahma had been hastily bundled ashore, and now -stood gazing first at the wonderful structures rising close at hand -and then at the disappearing canoes. Chauvin stood near by, biting his -moustache and growling at his chief's sudden departure. - -"I wish I were in his place," he muttered; "and if once I could set -foot on shipboard I would sail away never again to revisit this -detestable country. How now, you spawn! What are you staring at?" he -cried, suddenly turning upon Nahma, who was looking curiously at him. - -Chauvin hated Indians as he did everything else in the country that had -so bitterly disappointed his dreams of easily acquired wealth, and he -was disgusted that one of them should now be left in his care. - -"Away with him to the guard-house!" he shouted to a couple of soldiers -in attendance, "and keep him in close confinement until the governor's -return, since that is his Excellency's order." - -So Nahma was roughly hustled away, led inside the palisade, across -the enclosed court, and thrust into the guard-house. It was a small -structure solidly built of logs, having a rude stone chimney and a -single unglazed window some eighteen inches square that was fitted with -iron bars and could be closed from the outside by a heavy shutter. -There were also bars across the throat of the chimney. The floor was -of earth and the room was unfurnished. As the massive door of this -dungeon swung to with a crash behind him the young Indian stood for a -moment motionless. Then, in a frenzy of rage, he dashed himself against -the immovable barrier, clutched at the window-bars in a vain effort to -wrench them from their fastenings, and rushed about the narrow space, -seeking some outlet, like a wild animal when first caged. - -While our lad was thus engaged the door of his prison was again flung -open and two soldiers entered. Still possessed by his frenzy, Nahma -sprang forward, determined to kill them and make good his escape or die -in the attempt; but the sight of a burden that they bore caused him to -pause. It was the form of another Indian youth apparently helpless. -Behind them came others bringing straw, two blankets, food, and a jug -of water. With the straw and blankets they made a bed in one corner, on -which they laid the wounded youth. Then without a word to the prisoner -they departed, barring the door behind them. - -Now our lad had at least something to occupy his mind and divert his -thoughts from his own unhappiness. He saw that the new-comer was -neither a Huron nor an Iroquois; but as he bent over him and began to -ask questions he discovered that they had many words of the wide-spread -Algonquin tongue in common. Thus he quickly learned that the other was -named Tasquanto, that he was of a band of the Abenakis who had come -to Quebec to trade, and that, terrified by the awful noise of cannon, -he had leaped from a window and broken a leg. His comrades having -deserted him, he had been brought to the guard-house that the only -other Indian remaining in the fort might wait upon him. - -So Nahma was provided with an occupation that probably prevented -him from either killing himself in his despair or losing his mind. -Thanks to the teaching of Kaweras, he was able to set and properly -bandage Tasquanto's broken limb, and for weeks thereafter he was his -fellow-prisoner's devoted attendant. - -In the mean time the green of summer was succeeded by the gorgeous -tints of autumn, and its short-lived glory gave way to the white -desolation of a northern winter; but Champlain did not return to -Quebec, nor did any word come from him. At the end of two months -Chauvin sent messengers to Tadousac; but they returned without having -seen a living soul, white or red; and not until the weary winter was -half spent did the garrison of that lonely fort learn what had become -of the leader whom they were mourning as dead. - - - - -CHAPTER XV - -THE BITTER WINTER OF CANADA - - -The Canadian winter, that is now a time of so much animation and gayety -in the city of Quebec, proved a season of terror, starvation, sickness, -and death to the handful of Frenchmen left by Champlain to guard his -infant settlement. At its beginning they recklessly squandered their -stores, eating and drinking with no thought of the morrow. If Champlain -had been with them he would have taught them differently, for he had -already passed several winters in the country and knew their bitter -meaning. But, lacking his wise guidance, they indulged in riotous -living until suddenly they came face to face with famine. The winter -was not more than half spent when this happened, and they began to -suffer from hunger. - -Now that it was too late for any real good, Chauvin seized every -particle of food that remained, locked it up, and doled it out to his -men in such meagre allowance as barely served to keep life in their -shivering bodies. He also sent them into the woods to hunt, or to -dig roots and groundnuts, with which to help out their scanty fare. -He had expected to be able to purchase all the provisions he needed -from Indians, who, during the summer, had brought game to the fort -in abundance, but now not a native was to be seen except a few poor -wretches who came empty-handed and as beggars. - -Unlike their brethren of the south, who cultivated fields and stored -harvests for the winter, the improvident dwellers of that region lived -wholly by hunting, feasting while game was plentiful and starving when -it was gone. - -In all this time no one within the limits of that wretched fort -suffered as did the son of Longfeather. From the day that he was thrust -into his prison he was not allowed to leave it for a breath of outside -air, or a glimpse of the freedom for which his soul longed, until it -seemed as though he would rather die than remain within those hated -walls another minute. - -And with it all he had no idea why he was thus confined or what fate -was in store for him. Only, as days, weeks, and months passed, he -became more and more certain that he was to have no release save only -by death itself. But one thing kept him from seeking this instead of -waiting for it, and that was the friendship of the young Indian who, -wounded and helpless, had been brought to him during the first hour of -his imprisonment. Tasquanto's recovery was slow, and for many weeks he -depended upon Nahma for everything. It did not take long for these two, -drawn to each other by the bonds of race and a common misfortune, to -cement a friendship, and swear that they would either gain freedom or -perish together. - -Although they could not plan an escape from their closely guarded -prison and must wait for chance to aid them, they spent hours in -discussing the course to be pursued if ever they got beyond those hated -walls. - -"We must make all haste to cross the river," said Tasquanto, "for the -Hurons would quickly kill us if we remained on this side. If it is -frozen that will be easy. If not, we must steal one of the clumsy -boats of these awkward white men, who make everything bigger and -heavier than is needful. On the other side we will conceal ourselves -until we can build a canoe, and then we will go southward. Beyond that -I cannot see, for if we go to the country of thy people, they will kill -me; while it would be dangerous for thee, an Iroquois, to be found in -my country." - -"But I am not of the Iroquois," protested Nahma. - -"Not of the Iroquois! Who, then, are thy people?" - -"That I know not. I was found among the Maquas, who are a tribe of -the Iroquois, sorely wounded and without memory of aught that had -ever happened before that time. Since then I have been an Iroquois by -adoption, but it is certain that I am not one by birth." - -This statement so changed the aspect of affairs that it was agreed they -should travel towards the country of the Abenakis in case an escape -could be effected. It also afforded a fruitful topic of speculation, -and thus helped pass the weary hours. - -Finally, the time came when Tasquanto was so fully recovered that he -was sent out to hunt food for the hungry garrison, and during the day -Nahma was left alone, since only at night was his companion allowed to -rejoin him. Chauvin realized that if both were sent into the woods they -would at once make good their escape; while, from the friendship he had -noted between them, he felt assured that Tasquanto would return to his -comrade so long as the latter was held. Nor did he dare allow Nahma to -escape while there was a chance of Champlain's return. - -So our poor lad shivered and starved in his hated prison-house, finding -his only occupation in making snow-shoes from materials furnished by -Tasquanto. He designed them for his own use, but they were taken from -him by his guards as fast as completed, so that in the end he had -nothing to show for his labors. One night a great grief befell him; -Tasquanto failed to appear at the usual hour, nor did he come during -the night, though Nahma watched and waited for him until morning. He -asked eager questions of the guard who brought his miserable breakfast, -but the man refused to answer, and all that day our lad sat in a -lethargy of despair, careless whether he lived or died. - -The following night was one of furious storm and bitter cold. The north -wind roaring through the bending forest shrieked and howled in savage -glee as it struck the forlorn little outpost of white men. It leaped -down the wide-throated chimneys and scattered their fires. It slammed -shutters and doors, while if any ventured abroad, it blinded and choked -them with stinging volleys of snowdrift. So fierce and deadly was it -that even military discipline came to an end, and all sentries were -permitted to abandon their posts. - -Nahma sat alone in the dark, numbed and nearly perished with the cold, -for he had burned up the last bit of fuel brought him two days earlier -by Tasquanto, and none had been supplied since. In the many voices of -the storm, now shrill and clamorous, then deep and menacing, and again -filled with weird moanings that died in long-drawn sighs, he heard the -spirits of the dead, the Okis of another world, calling to him, and -bidding him share their wild freedom. He knew that he had but to yield -to the drowsiness already overpowering him, and the deadly cold would -speedily release him from all earthly prisons. Perhaps Tasquanto's -spirit was among those now calling; yes, he was sure of it, for he -recognized his friend's voice. "Massasoit," it called, "Massasoit, wake -up! It is I, Tasquanto, thy brother. Wake up and come to me." - -The cry was agonized in its intensity, and after a little even -Nahma's dulling senses recognized that it was uttered by human lips. -At the same time he felt that the storm was beating on his face, and -struggling weakly to his feet, he gained the window through which it -came. Its shutter was wide open, and beyond its bars stood Tasquanto -speaking to him. - -"I thought thee dead, my brother, for I have called many times without -answer," said Tasquanto, as he became aware that his friend was at hand. - -"And I believed thy voice to be that of thy spirit, for I also thought -thee gone to the place of the dead," replied Nahma. "Why have you -remained away from me these many hours?" - -"It is because they drove me from the gate, saying that my hunting -was of no avail, and that I should not longer eat of their stores. But -I could not go, my brother, without word with thee, and now has the -storm-god given me a chance for speaking. If it were not for these bars -we could do more than speak, for those who kept guard have been driven -to shelter, and there is none to hinder us from going away together. -But they may not be broken, and so we must wait until other means are -found for thy release. But fear not that I will desert thee. I have -found a way for passing the wall, and will come to this place whenever -it may be done without notice. In the mean time I will prepare for our -flight. Already have I built a lodge in a safe place beyond the river, -and----" - -Here Tasquanto's words were suddenly interrupted, and the heavy shutter -was slammed to as though by a fierce gust of wind. Then the door was -flung open and the faint gleam of a horn lantern illumined the interior. - -A little earlier on that same evening Chauvin, while talking with one -of his officers concerning Champlain and his unexplained absence, had -been reminded of the young Indian whom the governor had consigned to -his care, but to whom he had not given a thought in many days. Now he -inquired carelessly whether he were alive or dead. - -"I know not," replied the officer, who, following his chief's example, -had not concerned himself about the fate of so insignificant a being as -a captive Indian. - -"And why do you not know?" cried Chauvin, with a sudden burst of -petulant rage. "It is your duty to know, and to be ready with instant -report concerning everything taking place within the walls of Quebec. -Do you think because the governor chooses to absent himself for a while -that no one is left here to maintain his authority? By the saints, -monsieur, I will give you cause to remember that Pierre Chauvin is not -to be trifled with, and that when he asks a question he expects it to -be promptly answered. Go, then, at once, sir, and inform yourself by -personal observation of the condition of this prisoner, or haply you -may find yourself in his place." - -Without daring to reply, the bewildered officer bowed and left the -room. Thus it happened that, accompanied by a soldier whom he had -summoned to attend him, he came to Nahma's prison-house in time to -interrupt the conversation between him and Tasquanto and frighten the -latter into a precipitate retreat. - -Finding, to his satisfaction, that the prisoner was still alive, the -officer demanded of the soldier why, in such weather, he was kept -without fire. - -The soldier replied that it had been left to the other Indian to -provide the guard-house with fuel; whereupon his superior passed out to -him the rating he himself had received from Chauvin. - -"And so, _canaille_, you leave your duties to be performed by a -miserable skulking savage. A pretty state of affairs in a king's -fortress. Bring wood at once, sir, and fire, also fetch something in -the way of food, for this wretch looks like to die of starvation, a -thing that may not be allowed of the governor's own prisoner, even -though he be a heathen." - -So on that night of bitter tempest not only were Nahma's spirits raised -by a new hope, but the horrors of freezing and starvation that had -threatened his life were sensibly mitigated. Two days later came the -first word received from Champlain since his hurried departure for -Tadousac four months earlier. - - - - -CHAPTER XVI - -A DASH FOR LIBERTY - - -The mystery of Champlain's disappearance weighed heavily on the -spirits of the forlorn little garrison left to hold Quebec. He had -been the life and mainstay of the colony, the firm rock upon which it -was founded. Without him there seemed no hope of its continuance or -of relief from their distress. They were convinced that he was dead, -for they knew he would never have left them without at least sending -a message to tell where he had gone. So they mourned him sincerely if -also selfishly, and planned to abandon his settlement at the first -opportunity, if indeed any should offer. - -The great storm cast an added gloom over the garrison, and they were so -unhappy that every man was ready to fly at his neighbor's throat upon -the slightest provocation, when a small band of Indians was reported -to be making a camp near at hand. Instantly every face brightened, -for it was thought that they must have brought provisions to trade for -goods. Thus, when, a little later, one of them approached the fort, he -was given prompt admittance. Being conducted to the presence of the -commandant, he announced that his people were so very hungry that they -had come to the white men to beg a little food from their abundant -stores. At the same time he had brought a message from the great white -chief, for which he was entitled to a reward. - -With this the Indian produced a folded paper, greasy and grimed with -dirt, which he handed to Chauvin. - -As the latter unfolded it he uttered an exclamation, for it contained a -note written in French and signed "Champlain." Its condition rendered -it difficult to decipher, but as the reader gradually mastered its -contents his face darkened, until suddenly he sprang up, seized a -stick, and began furiously to belabor the astonished savage, who had -been waiting in smiling expectancy for his reward. With a howl of -pained surprise, he leaped back and rushed from the building with the -enraged commandant in hot pursuit. - -Not until the terrified native had escaped from the fort and -disappeared in the forest did Chauvin give over his chase. Then, to the -amazement of his men, he ordered a cannon to be loaded and fired in -the direction taken by the object of his wrath. Although the crashing -ball did no damage, it, and the roar of the gun bursting upon the -winter stillness, so frightened the recently arrived Indians that they -instantly abandoned their partially constructed camp and fled in hot -haste from that hostile neighborhood. - -Refusing to answer questions, and so leaving the curiosity of his men -unsatisfied, Chauvin returned to his quarters, and lifting Champlain's -note from the floor where he had flung it, read it for the second time -with gritting teeth and bitter maledictions. It was dated four months -earlier, and read as follows: - - - "MY GOOD FRIEND PIERRE: - - "I am just arrived at Tadousac and find the ship about to sail. I - also find it to be of the last importance that one of us should - return in her to France. Had I known this two days earlier, or - could I get word to you in season, the mission would devolve upon - you, since I am loath to leave at this time. As it happens, I - myself must go; but will return in earliest spring. So, my friend, - until then everything is left to you. Husband carefully your - provisions, keep up the spirits of your men, and maintain friendly - relations with the natives. I forward this by a messenger, whom you - will suitably reward for its prompt delivery. Regretting that we - may not exchange duties, for I would gladly remain, I sign myself, - as ever, - - "Thy friend, - "CHAMPLAIN." - - -"Death and furies!" cried Chauvin, again flinging the note to the floor -and grinding it beneath his heel. "To think that while we have mourned -him as dead he has been all the time comfortably in France. Also that -I might have gone in his stead if only he could have got word to me in -time. Ten thousand thunders! It would enrage a saint! Maintain friendly -relations with the natives, forsooth! I would I could blow them all to -eternity. Suitably reward that rascal messenger! Burning at the stake -would be too good for him. And, heavens! all this time we have been -keeping one of the scoundrels in luxurious idleness, gorging him with -food robbed from our own bellies, providing him with fire and lodging -to gratify a whim of the governor's, doubtless long since forgotten. -But not another minute shall he thus impose upon us. He shall go, and -that with such speed as will amaze him." - -With this the angry commandant again descended to the court, summoned -all the able-bodied men of the garrison, and bade them form a double -line outside the guard-house door, after first providing themselves -with cudgels. "The red whelp inside," he said, "has without recompense -devoured our substance long enough. Now, therefore, I propose to send -him forth bearing tokens of our regard that may not be forgotten in -haste. Watch sharply, then, and remember that any man failing to deal -him at least one blow shall go without his supper this night. Are you -ready? It is well!" - -Thus saying, Chauvin unlocked the guard-house door and flung it open -preparatory to stepping inside and driving out with blows its solitary -occupant. The next moment he was hurled sprawling to the ground, and a -slight, half-naked figure, animated by desperation, was darting with -such speed between the lines of unprepared soldiers that some failed -even to go through the motions of striking at him, while others wasted -their blows on the empty air. Uttering yells of delight at the novel -nature of this entertainment, they ran after him; but they might as -well have pursued a fleeting shadow. Before they could head him off he -had sped through the open gate and was gone. - -After Tasquanto's visit Nahma's shutter had been nailed up, so that -he no longer had even the poor consolation of gazing out on the blank -wall of palisades. Nor could he employ his hands, for he was now in -darkness, save for such faint gleams as filtered down his chimney. -Under these conditions he believed that he might speedily die, and -planned for one last effort at escape before his waning strength should -turn to utter weakness. On that very day he had determined that when -next his prison door was opened it should never again close on his -living body. So he sat watching it with feverish impatience. - -The roar of Chauvin's vengeful cannon startled him and at the same time -gave him a vague hope of some unusual happening that might result in -his favor. So he became keenly alert, and was not taken by surprise -when, without previous warning, the door of the guard-house was flung -open. Dropping from his shoulders the blanket which alone had saved -him from freezing, the youth sprang forward, reckless of consequences, -and a minute later, without an idea of how the miracle had been -accomplished, found himself outside the fort and speeding towards -the icebound river. So blinded were his eyes by the unaccustomed -light and glare of snow that until now he had seen nothing save the -figure that had opened his door, and his movements had been guided by -instinct rather than knowledge. The single fact indelibly impressed -upon his brain was that Tasquanto waited somewhere beyond the river. -Consequently that was the one direction for him to take, and he would -doubtless have plunged into its waters, had they been free, as readily -as he now leaped upon its snow-covered surface. - -So long as he was within sight of the fort and within range of its guns -his strength lasted, and he sped forward with the same fleetness that -had formerly aroused the wonder of his Iroquois friends. Thus he gained -the middle of the river, and climbed a rugged ridge of hummocks and -huge ice-blocks upheaved during the final struggle of rebellious waters -against the mighty forces of the frost-king. - -On the farther side of this our poor lad faltered, staggered, and -then sank with a groan. The nervous strength that had borne him thus -far was exhausted, and in this place of temporary safety it yielded -to the weakness of his long imprisonment. He had made a splendid dash -for liberty, but now he had reached the limit of his powers, and must -either be recaptured within a short space or die of the bitter cold. -Even as he lay with closed eyes gasping for breath he felt its numbing -clutch, and knew that very shortly he would be powerless against it. -But it did not matter. He would at least die in possession of the -freedom for which he had longed, and, after all, what had he to live -for? He was friendless, homeless, and without even a people whom he -might call his own. No tribe claimed him, there was no lodge within -which he had the right of shelter. It would be much better in the land -of spirits, for there his own would know him as he would know them. -The trail to it was easy and short, also it was a very pleasant path, -bright with sunshine and gay with flowers. There was music of singing -birds, and already were the voices of his own people calling to him. -"Massasoit!" they cried, "Massasoit!" Then they named him brother and -bade him open his eyes that he might see them. So he opened his eyes -and gazed into the anxious face of Tasquanto, who knelt beside him -rubbing vigorously at his limbs and slapping him smartly to restore -circulation in the numbing body. - -He smiled happily at sight of Nahma's unclosed eyes, but did not for -an instant desist from his rubbings and slappings until the other at -length sat up, and then unsteadily regained his feet. - -"Now, my brother," said Tasquanto, taking a robe of skins from his own -shoulders as he spoke and throwing it about Nahma, "together must we -reach the lodge I have prepared, for I will never return to it alone. -The trail is long and hard, but it must be overcome or we shall perish -together." - -So the journey was begun, Nahma at first leaning heavily on his -comrade's supporting arm, but gaining new strength with each step. -As he had taken neither nourishment nor stimulant, this was wholly -owing to the effect upon his spirits of renewed hope and a cheery -companionship. As they walked Tasquanto told him how, ever since the -storm, his attempts at communication had been frustrated, how in the -mean time he had increased the comforts of his hidden lodge, how at -sound of Chauvin's cannon he had hastened towards the fort to learn -the cause of the firing, and of the overwhelming joy with which he -had discovered Nahma as the latter topped the ice-ridge in the middle -of the river. Then Nahma related as well as he could the details of -his wonderful escape from the fort, and by the time his narrative was -ended they were come to the rude lodge that Tasquanto had built in -anticipation of just such a need as had now arisen. - - - - -CHAPTER XVII - -A DEATH-DEALING THUNDER-STICK - - -Tasquanto's lodge was snugly hidden in a dense growth of heavy timber -near the place where the Chaudiere flows into the St. Lawrence. It was -merely a frame of poles covered so thickly with branches of fragrant -spruce and balsam that it presented the appearance of a green mound -rising above the surrounding snow. Its walls were so thick as to be -almost wind-proof, and in the middle of its earthen floor was a small -circle of stones that formed a rude fireplace. In this only the dryest -of wood was burned, and the little smoke that resulted escaped through -an aperture left in the roof. On two sides were elastic beds of spruce -boughs covered deep with flat hemlock branches and balsam tips. The -very air of the place was a tonic, and the escaped captive, fresh from -the foulness of his prison, drew in eager breaths of its life-giving -sweetness as he sank wearily, but happily, down on the nearest pile of -boughs. - -As he lay there gazing about the rude shelter with an air of perfect -content he uttered frequent exclamations of amazement, for Tasquanto -was drawing from various hiding-places an array of treasures such as -no Indian of Nahma's acquaintance had ever before possessed: a copper -kettle, a steel hatchet, two knives, a blanket, several glass bottles, -and a fragment of mirror. Then, with conscious pride, but also with -evident trepidation, he produced the most wonderful trophy of all, a -rusty musket, one of the awful thunder-sticks that rendered the white -man all-powerful. - -During the night of the great storm the entire garrison of Quebec -had gathered for warmth in the hall of the commandant's house, and -Tasquanto had taken advantage of this to make a foray into the deserted -barracks with the above result. He had brought away the musket with -fear and trembling, dreading lest it might explode and kill him at any -moment. Even now he handled it cautiously, while Nahma could not for -some time be persuaded to touch it. So it was laid carefully down, and -he was permitted to feast his eyes on the marvel while Tasquanto busied -himself in preparing a feast of more substantial character. - -He had been so fortunate as to discover the winter den of a bear, which -he had also succeeded in killing, so that now he could offer his guest -not only the warmth of a shaggy robe but an abundance of meat. Instead -of half-burning and half-cooking a chunk of this on the coals, as was -the custom of his people, he displayed a rudiment of civilization by -cutting it up into small bits and stewing them in his copper kettle. - -After the youths had eaten heartily of this meal, which, simple as it -was, proved more satisfactory to Nahma than the very best of those -given him in Quebec, they spent several hours in discussing their -plans for the future and in examining Tasquanto's treasures. Having -overcome his awe of the thunder-stick sufficiently to take it in his -hands, Nahma became anxious to test its powers. He had seen Champlain -discharge his musket, and knew that it was done through the agency of -a lighted slow-match applied to the priming-pan. His knowledge of the -firing of a gun was thus far in advance of Tasquanto's, who, having -never witnessed the operation at close range, had no idea of how it was -accomplished. But he was quite willing to learn, and so it was agreed -that on the following morning Nahma should give the owner of the musket -his first lesson in its use. - -Both of them were so excited over the prospect of experimenting for -their own benefit with the deadly thunder of the white man that they -lay awake most of the night discussing their proposed adventure; and, -as a consequence, slept much later than they had intended on the -following morning. The day was well advanced, therefore, when the two -lads, after preparing and eating another hearty meal, stepped outside -to test their newly acquired weapon. It was carried by Nahma, who, -nervous with excitement, still presented a bold front, while, under his -direction, Tasquanto fetched a blazing brand from the fire. - -Resting the barrel of his piece across the trunk of a prostrate tree -and holding its stock at arm's length, Nahma bade his companion apply -fire to the pan. With much trepidation and a strong desire to clap -both hands to his ears, Tasquanto valiantly did as he was bidden, but -without result. Again and again did he apply the glowing coal, but -still the gun refused to obey the wishes of its inexperienced owners. - -"It will only speak and deal out its death-medicine at the command of -white men," said Tasquanto, disconsolately. - -"Not so," replied Nahma, "for once I saw it obey the will of a Huron -warrior. But I think I know what is needed. It must be turned over so -that the flame may rise to it. Also in this weather the thunder-stick -is so cold that it will take much fire to warm it into action. Make, -therefore, a hot blaze, and I am assured that something will happen." - -So Nahma turned the gun, and, forgetting to remain at arm's length, -bent anxiously over the refractory piece, while Tasquanto built a -regular fire beneath it. Of a sudden the musket went off with a -tremendous report that roused the woodland echoes for miles. Also it -sprang savagely backward, bowling over both Nahma and Tasquanto as -though they had been ninepins. But the most astounding result of the -discharge was a series of shrieks and yells that resounded through the -forest as though it were peopled by a pack of demons. At the same time -a number of leaping figures dashed from an extensive thicket at which -the gun had been inadvertently pointed and fled as though for their -lives. Something had assuredly happened. - -As our bewildered lads cautiously lifted their heads to learn the -extent of the damage done by the fearful force they had so recklessly -let loose, each was thankful to see that the other was still alive. -Next they glanced at the musket. It lay half buried in the snow, -looking as innocent and harmless as a stick of wood; but they knew -of what terrible things it was capable, and would hereafter be very -careful how they allowed it to come into contact with fire. They were -convinced that in some unexplained manner it could absorb flame until -it had accumulated a certain quantity and could then eject this with -deadly effect. - -Being reassured concerning their own condition and the present -harmlessness of the musket, they next bethought themselves of the -dreadful cries that had seemed to mingle with the report, and they -agreed that these must have been uttered by the Okis, or spirits of -the forest, in protest against such a rude disturbance of its winter -quiet. As they stiffly picked themselves up, Nahma declared his -intention of visiting the thicket towards which the thunder-stick had -been pointed, to see whether he could discover where its lightnings had -struck. Tasquanto tried to dissuade him, declaring that the place must -be the abode of Okis; but to this Nahma answered that if so they were -certainly frightened away for the present, which would therefore be the -best time to visit their haunts. - -So the two cautiously made their way in that direction, and had not -gone more than fifty paces when they came upon a sight almost as -startling as had been the discharge of the musket. It was the dead -body of a Huron warrior not yet cold. His life's blood still trickled -from a jagged wound in the breast and crimsoned the snow on which he -had fallen. On all sides of him were other signs that told as plainly -as spoken words how narrowly our lads had escaped falling into the -hands of a merciless foe. There were marks of a cautious approach -along the trail they themselves had made the day before, of the halt -for observation when the intended victims were discovered, and of the -panic-stricken flight that followed the unexpected musket-fire by which -one of their number had been so suddenly killed. - -"The thunder-stick is indeed a god," remarked Nahma. "It can discover -and kill the enemies of those to whom it is friendly even before they -have knowledge of approaching danger." - -"Yes," replied Tasquanto, as he coolly scalped the dead Huron; "with -it to fight on our side we are become as sagamores, terrible and -all-powerful. I will take it to my own people, and when it shall lead -them in battle who will be able to stand before them? Even the white -men, whom many still think to be gods, are now no stronger than we. Oh, -my friend! let us shout for joy, since in all the world there is no man -more powerful than are Massasoit and Tasquanto, his brother." - -When the exultant young warriors returned to camp, bearing with them -the trophies of their exploit, they also carried, very reverently, -the weapon which they termed a "thunder-god," and which had rendered -them such notable service. Then, while Nahma set to work on a pair -of snow-shoes, Tasquanto, who had seen the French soldiers oil and -burnish their guns, coated his with bear's grease, removed its -smoke-stains, and rubbed its barrel until it shone. When he had done -for it everything that his limited knowledge prescribed, he placed -it in a corner where they could constantly admire it, and began the -construction of a rude toboggan of bark. - -By the time this was completed Nahma's snow-shoes were also ready -for service, and the fugitives were prepared to start on their long -southward journey. For a beginning of this they made their way slowly -up to the head-waters of the Chaudiere, crossed a rugged divide to -those of the Penobscot, and there established a permanent camp. From -this they set lines of traps that yielded a rich reward in the way of -pelts, and before spring opened they got out the frame of a canoe. As -soon as sap began to run in the birch-trees they secured enough bark to -cover it, and by the time the river opened they were prepared to float -with its current to the country of Tasquanto's people. - -Their voyage down the swift-rushing river was filled with adventures -and with hair-breadth escapes. Not only were they in almost constant -danger from foaming rapids and roaring waterfalls, but only unceasing -vigilance and an occasional display of their musket saved them from -death or capture by the hostile tribes through whose territory they -passed. - -At length they carried around the last cataract and entered upon the -long, broad reaches by which the river flowed in dignified majesty to -the sea. This was Tasquanto's country, and now they might watch for the -villages in which he would be assured a friendly welcome. - -Finally one was sighted, and Nahma proposed that, after the custom -of white men on returning from victorious expeditions, they should -discharge their thunder-stick. Nothing loath to add to his own -importance by such an announcement of their coming, Tasquanto promptly -assented to this proposition. So they landed a few hundred yards above -the village and made preparations for the second discharge of their -formidable weapon. - - - - -CHAPTER XVIII - -KIDNAPPED - - -Being by this time, as they fondly imagined, thoroughly acquainted -with the white man's thunder-stick and with all details of the process -necessary to render it effective, our young Indians were determined -to leave undone nothing that might contribute to the complete success -of their proposed salute. To begin with, the musket must be pointed -away from the village, and they themselves must keep at a respectful -distance while it was accumulating its fiery energy. Also, to produce -an extraordinary volume of sound, the flame by which the thunder-stick -was fed must be big and hot. They knew this, because on the occasion of -their previous experiment they had, with the aid of a flame, produced -a much louder noise than that made by the white man's slow-matches. -Consequently they argued that the greater the flame the louder the -report. - -At the same time they were willing to acknowledge that slow-matches -were excellent things to have under certain conditions, when, for -instance, one was so closely beset that he wished to fire with great -rapidity, even as many as two or three shots in the course of an hour. -So they were determined to obtain one at the very first opportunity, -and imagined that thus provided their shooting equipment would be -complete. - -But a blaze would be much better for their present purpose, and they -would take care that it was big enough to produce an astonishing -result. So carefully did they make their preparations that while -Tasquanto collected dry wood for the fire, Nahma cut a couple of forked -sticks on which to rest the musket and drove them solidly into the -ground. To these he lashed the gun until it resembled a victim about -to be burned at the stake. He did not, of course, forget to place it -upside down, so that its firing-pan might receive full benefit of the -upleaping flames. Then wood was piled beneath it until it really looked -as though they were intent upon burning the gun instead of being merely -desirous of discharging it. - -While they were making these preparations several of the villagers, -noticing the presence of strangers, came out to discover their -business. To these Tasquanto made the peace sign, and at the same time -warned them not to come too close. So they halted and watched with -curiosity the mysterious proceedings of the strangers. - -At length all was in readiness, and Tasquanto, as principal owner -of the thunder-stick, claimed the privilege of setting fire to the -inflammable structure he had reared beneath it. As the brisk blaze shot -upward he ran back and joined Nahma at a safe distance. On the opposite -side were the village Indians, filled with uneasy expectancy mingled -with awe; for they imagined they were witnessing some impressive -religious ceremony. - -The flames mounted higher and higher until they completely enveloped -the devoted musket, and Tasquanto, so excited as to be unconscious -of the act, clapped his hands to his ears to deaden the sound of the -thunderous report that he momentarily expected. But it did not come. -The wooden stock of the gun began to smoke, and then burst into a -blaze. Being very dry and also saturated with oil, it was speedily -consumed. At the same time the lashings burned through, and the red-hot -barrel, already bent out of shape, fell into the glowing coals. - -As though drawn by an irresistible fascination, Tasquanto, with hands -still held to his ears, had moved nearer step by step, gazing with -incredulous eyes at this destruction of the thing he had regarded as a -god, loud-voiced and invincible. The puzzled spectators on the other -side also cautiously approached closer. - -Suddenly Tasquanto, seeming to awake as from a dream, started down the -hill-side towards the canoe, and Nahma followed him. Both knew why they -fled. For some unexplained reason their expected triumph had resulted -in a dismal failure. This had laid them open to the ridicule that -an Indian finds especially hard to bear, and they had no wish to be -questioned concerning what had just taken place. - -The spectators of their recent remarkable performance, curious to -see what they would do next, followed them so closely that, in order -to escape, our lads were forced to run. Gaining their canoe, they -shoved it off and leaped in as the foremost of their pursuers reached -the water's edge. Without heeding the many invitations to return that -quickly became threatening commands, Nahma and Tasquanto plied their -paddles with such diligence that they were quickly beyond arrow range; -and, speeding past the village without a pause, they were soon lost -to sight of its puzzled inhabitants. Not until they were some miles -farther down the river was a word exchanged between the young men. -Then, as Nahma drew in his paddle and paused for breath, he remarked,-- - -"The thunder-stick of the white man is bad medicine for bow-and-arrow -people." - -"Yes," replied Tasquanto, mournfully, "it seems that we have much to -learn." - -While in camp that night discussing the humiliating events of the day -they were joined by a solitary hunter who was on his way up the river. -After a guarded interchange of questions and answers, during which -neither party learned anything definite concerning the other, the -stranger told them of certain white men who were trading at the mouth -of the Penobscot, and advised them to carry their furs to that market. - -"Are they Francaise?" asked Nahma, who was determined never again to -fall within the power of those who had so cruelly imprisoned him. - -"No," was the reply, "they are of a people who call themselves -'Yengeese' and who make war on the white-coats." - -"Have they thunder-sticks?" asked Tasquanto. - -"In plenty." - -"Then let us go to them. If we accomplish nothing else we may learn the -white man's secret, and so shall our shame be wiped out." - -On the following day, therefore, a few hours carried our lads to where -the river broadened into a bay dotted with islands. As their little -craft was lifted on the first great swells that came rolling in from -the open sea, Nahma uttered an exclamation and pointed eagerly. - -"Look!" he cried. "What is it? Was ever such a thing seen in the world -before?" - -Tasquanto glanced in the direction indicated and laughed. Truly, the -sight was remarkable, and one still rare to those waters; but he had -already seen one so similar in the St. Lawrence that he could now speak -with the authority of superior knowledge. - -"It is the winged canoe of the white man," he said. "In it he comes up -out of the great salt waters and after a little flies back again to his -own place. Knew you not that his whiteness is caused by the washing of -the waters in which he lives?" - -"No," replied Nahma, doubtfully. "Nor did I know that any canoe could -be so vast. It even has trees growing from it." - -"Yes," admitted the other, to whom this phenomenon was also a puzzle. -"But they be not trees that bear fruit, nor even leaves, though they -have branches and vines. On them the canoe spreads its wings, which are -white like the pinions of wembezee" (the swan). - -"Let us go closer that we may see these things," said Nahma, to whom -the appearance of that little English trading-ship was as wonderful as -had been his first view of Quebec. - -So they approached slowly and cautiously, feasting their eyes on the -marvel as they went, and directing each other's attention to a myriad -of details. Finally they were within hailing distance, and a man -standing on the ship's towering poop-deck beckoned for them to come on -board. - -Tasquanto, who knew the etiquette of such occasions, held up a -beaver-skin, as much as to say "Will you trade?" - -For reply the white man displayed some trinkets that glittered in the -sunlight, thereby intimating his willingness to transact business. At -the same time he turned to one who stood close at hand and said,-- - -"They be two young bucks, without old men, women, or children. Nor is -there another native in sight. It is therefore the best chance by far -that has offered for filling Sir Ferdinando's order. 'Twenty pounds -will I give thee, Dermer, for a native youth of intelligence delivered -here at Plymouth in good condition.' Those were his very words, and it -will be well to have two; for if one dies on the passage, as the cattle -are so apt to do, then will the other make good the loss. If both -survive, so much the better, since we can readily dispose of the extra -one. We must entice them on board, therefore, and the instant they -set foot on deck do thou see to it that they are secured. Be careful, -however, that they suffer no injury, for I would get them across in -good condition if possible." - -"Aye, aye, sir," answered the other, who was mate of the ship. "If you -can toll 'em on board I'll handle them as they were unweaned lambs. -I'll warrant you they won't escape if once I get a grip on them, -slippery devils though they be." - -When the canoe ran alongside the ship a few trinkets were tossed into -it as presents and in token of good-will. Then a ladder of rope was -lowered, and by signs our lads were invited to come on board. - -They looked at each other doubtfully. "Is it safe to trust these white -men?" asked Nahma. - -"To discover the secret of the thunder-sticks, and perhaps to obtain -one in exchange for our furs, is worth a risk," replied Tasquanto. As -he spoke he glanced longingly up to where the ship's captain, with a -leer on his face that passed for a reassuring smile, tempted them by a -lavish display of trade goods. - -"Truly, it would be worth much," hesitated Nahma. "At the same time, -having once escaped from a prison, I have no desire to see the inside -of another." - -"Then stay thou here while I go," said Tasquanto, whose desire to wipe -out his recent humiliation was so great as to overcome his prudence. -"The secret of the thunder-stick I must have even though it cost me my -life." - -"Does my brother think so meanly of me as to believe that I would let -him face a danger alone while I remained in safety?" inquired Nahma, -reproachfully. "Let him go and I will follow close at his heels; for -whatever happens to one of us must happen to both." - -So the canoe was made fast, the bundle of furs was attached to a line -let down for it, and Tasquanto began to climb the swaying ladder while -Nahma steadied it from below. As the former disappeared over the ship's -side the son of Longfeather followed swiftly after him. Topping the -high bulwarks, he glanced anxiously down in search of his comrade, but -Tasquanto was not to be seen. A suspicion of foul play darted into his -mind, but too late for him to act upon it, for at the same instant he -was seized by two pair of brawny hands and dragged inboard. - -Half an hour later the ship under full canvas was speeding merrily -down the bay with her jubilant crew bawling out the chorus of a -homeward-bound chantey. - - - - -CHAPTER XIX - -SOLD AS A SLAVE - - -The distress and terror of our poor lads when they found themselves -flung into the horrible darkness of the ship's hold with its hatch -closed above them would have been pitiful had there been any witnesses. -But there was none, and for many weary hours they seemed to have been -imprisoned in mere wantonness only to be forgotten as soon as the -treacherous act had been accomplished. Their sole comfort was that -they were together; for, on being dropped into the hold, Nahma found -Tasquanto, stunned by the magnitude of his misfortune, awaiting him. - -For a time the two remained speechless, only holding to each other, -listening, and fearfully awaiting what next might happen. Although they -could see nothing there was much to hear, for the anchor was being hove -up, sails loosed and sheeted home, canvas was slatting, yards were -creaking, and all to the accompaniment of much hoarse shouting and a -continual tramping of heavy feet. But none of these sounds conveyed -to our captives the slightest idea of what was taking place. After a -while the ship began to heel until they believed her to be capsizing, -and that their last hour had come. Also they heard a sound of rushing -waters. A little later both were so utterly prostrated by sea-sickness -that whatever might happen no longer concerned them. - -In this wretched plight they lay for what seemed like many days, but in -reality only until the middle of the next forenoon, when, of a sudden, -the hatch above them was removed and they were blinded by the flood -of light that followed. Then men came to them and they were driven on -deck, where, dazed and weak with illness, they staggered from side to -side with the motion of the ship. Their pitiable appearance was greeted -by shouts of coarse mirth from the crew, who found in it a vastly -entertaining spectacle. - -The captives were offered food, but refused it with loathing, though -they drank eagerly from a bucket of water placed beside them as -they sat on deck at the foremast's foot. After a while Nahma became -sufficiently revived by the fresh air to gaze about him with somewhat -of interest in his strange surroundings. Everything was marvellous and -incomprehensible. Even the bearded sailors in petticoats and pigtails, -which latter he took to be scalp-locks, were entirely different from -the French, who, until now, were the only white men he had known. Nor -could he comprehend a word of the barbarous language in which they -conversed. When he was tired of looking at them he began to wonder in -which direction lay the land, and to turn over in his mind a plan for -making a quick rush to the ship's side, leaping overboard, and swimming -to shore. - -Before broaching this scheme to his comrade Nahma decided to get his -bearings. So he gained his feet and mounted a scuttle-butt, by which -his eyes were lifted above the level of the high bulwarks. To his -consternation there was no land in sight. Not so much as a tree nor a -blue hill-top could he discover in any direction. His unaccustomed -eyes could not even distinguish the line of the horizon dividing a gray -sky from the immensity of gray waters that stretched away on all sides. -The bewildering sight filled him with a dread greater than any he had -ever known, and he slipped back to his place beside Tasquanto, utterly -hopeless. - -"Whether we be going up or down I know not," he said to the latter; -"but certain it is that we now float among the clouds, with no prospect -of ever again returning to the earth on which dwell people after our -own kind. Already are we become Okis." - -"Then is it a most unhappy condition," answered Tasquanto, "and the -medicine-men are liars." - -After a few hours on deck our lads were again driven into the darkness -and foulness of the hold; but on every pleasant day thereafter for -weeks was the process of bringing them on deck for an airing repeated. -In times of storm they were kept below, with their sufferings -immeasurably increased by sickness, by the violent pitching of the -ship, by lack of food and water, and by terrors of the creakings and -groanings that filled the surrounding blackness. - -For more than a month did they thus suffer, hopeless of ever again -sighting land or of any relief from their unhappy situation. Then, to -Nahma at least, came the worst of all. One day, while they were on -deck, he suddenly lifted his head and sniffed the air. - -"It is a breath of earth," he whispered, as though fearful of uttering -the glad news aloud. "I can smell it. Oh, my brother! to once more gain -the freedom of a forest would be a happiness exceeding any other. Let -us be ready on the morrow when we are again brought into the light. It -may be that we shall be near enough to swim to the land. Once within -cover of the forest we would never again look upon the face of a white -man." - -About this time they were sent below, but that faint scent of land not -yet distinguished by any other on the ship had infused them with a new -hope, and for hours they talked of what might be done on the morrow. - -In the mean time their ship was so near the English coast that -twenty-four hours later she lay at anchor in the harbor of Plymouth and -her small boat was ready to go ashore. - -"Fetch me the heathen desired by Sir Ferdinando," ordered Captain -Dermer. - -"Which one, sir?" - -"Either will do. Call them up and take the first that shows a head. -Drive the other back, and keep him below until my return." - -"Aye, aye, sir." - -So the hatch was partially removed, and the signal for which our lads -had waited so impatiently was given. Tasquanto was first to answer it -and gain the deck. Nahma followed closely, but was met by a blow that -tumbled him back into the hold. Then the hatch was replaced, and he was -once more confronted by the horrors of solitary confinement. - -For a time he continued to hope that he would be allowed on deck, or -that his comrade would be restored to him; but, as the weary hours -dragged slowly by without either of these things happening, these hopes -grew fainter and fainter until finally they vanished. - -When food and water were brought to him, he drank of the latter but -refused to eat, although the food was fresh meat, the first he had seen -since the dreadful day when he had been enticed aboard the ship. It was -another proof that they were once more near land. Perhaps even now the -forest for which he longed was close at hand, and perhaps people of his -own race were come off to trade. Perhaps Tasquanto, who had picked up -a number of English words, was acting as interpreter for them. In that -case he would doubtless find a chance for escape, though even if he -should, Nahma was certain that he would not make use of it. Were they -not brothers, sworn to share each other's fortunes, good or ill, to the -end? No! Tasquanto would never desert him; but sooner or later, if he -were still alive, would come again to him. Of this our lad was certain. - -After a while the lonely prisoner fell asleep, and when he next awoke -the ship was again in motion. He felt about for his companion, but -could not find him; he called aloud, but got no answer. Then he knew -that he was indeed alone in the world and that something terrible must -have happened to Tasquanto. When next he was allowed on deck he looked -eagerly for his friend, and, seeing nothing of him, relapsed into a -condition of apathy. He no longer cared what happened, and refused to -eat the food offered him. - -"Won't eat, eh?" growled Captain Dermer, on learning of this state of -affairs. "We'll see about that." - -The grizzled old mariner's method of seeing about things was so -effective that the refractory young Indian shortly found himself -pinned to the deck by two sailors. A third pinched his nose, and when -he opened his mouth for breath poured in hot soup that the victim was -obliged to swallow to keep from choking. So he was fed by force, and -his strength was sustained until the ship once more came to anchor. - -As usual, Nahma was confined below when this happened, and when he was -next brought on deck he was given no time to look about him before -being seized, stripped of the foul garments that he had worn during -the voyage, and scrubbed from head to foot, roughly but thoroughly. -Then he was provided with a new suit of buckskin that had been acquired -by trade from the Abenakis. He was also given colors and a mirror and -ordered to paint his face. Showing symptoms of disobedience, he was -made to understand that one of the crew would do it for him; and, -rather than be thus disfigured, he reluctantly complied. After he had -satisfactorily decorated himself, greatly to the amusement of the crew, -he was left to his own devices and allowed to wander about the deck as -he pleased. - -Gaining a position where he could see beyond the ship's side, he was -as amazed and bewildered as though he had been transported to another -planet, for the vessel had ascended the Thames, and his outlook was -upon London. - -Not a tree was to be seen, not a green thing, only houses, until it -seemed as though the whole world must be covered with them. Even the -river disappeared beneath houses built in a double row on a bridge that -spanned it a short distance away. The ship was moored beside a great -dingy building, from and into which men came and went as thickly as -bees swarming about a hollow tree in his native woods. - -Although no such clouds of smoke hung above London then as infold it -to-day, there was enough to impress our young savage with the belief -that a forest fire must be raging just beyond the buildings that -obstructed his view. This belief was strengthened by the ceaseless roar -of the city, that, to him, held the same elements of terror as the -awful voice of a wide-spread conflagration. - -If Tasquanto were only with him that they might discuss these things. -But, alas! he was alone, as unfitted for a life-struggle amid those -heretofore undreamed-of surroundings as a newborn babe, and, like it, -unprovided with a language understandable by those about him. Set down -in the heart of a primeval forest he would have been perfectly at home; -but face to face with this hideous wilderness of human construction he -was appalled at his own insignificance and utter helplessness. - -As he turned away terror-stricken he noticed that several persons -gathered about Captain Dermer were regarding him curiously. One of -them, a young man of about Nahma's own age, apparently touched by the -hopeless expression on our lad's painted face, stepped towards him with -outstretched hand. - -"Winslow," he said, pointing to himself. - -"Massasoit," answered the other, promptly, and indicating his own -person. - -Although he could not understand the newcomer's words he appreciated -the hearty grip of his hand, and, gazing into his honest eyes, felt -that here was one who might become a friend. - -"What are you going to do with him?" inquired Winslow, stepping back -beside Captain Dermer. - -"Let him go when he can pay his passage-money, or turn him over to the -first person who will pay it for him," was the reply. - -"What is the sum?" - -"Twenty pounds, no more nor less." - -"I have not that amount with me, but if you will give me a day or two I -think I can get it. Will you keep him until I come again?" - -"Unless some other turns up in the mean time equally desirous of -accommodating him." - -"Captain, I vill pay the money on the spot," exclaimed a voice, -and wheeling about, Winslow saw a man of sporty aspect arrayed in -tawdry imitation of a gentleman, and of a decidedly Hebraic cast of -countenance. He was extending a handful of gold pieces, which Captain -Dermer took and counted. - -"It is a trade," he said. "Take him and may luck go with you." - -Thus was sold, in the city of London, a free-born native American; and -he was but one of many New World people who shared a similar fate both -before and afterwards. - - - - -CHAPTER XX - -ONE FRIENDLY FACE - - -The man who on pretence of paying Nahma's passage-money had in reality -bought him was a well-known London fur-dealer, who had visited the -ship to appraise her cargo. The young fellow who had extended to our -forlorn lad the hand of friendship, and who, but for lack of ready -means, would have redeemed him from a threatened slavery, was a Mr. -Edward Winslow. He was the youngest son of a well-to-do Devon family, -who had taken a degree at Oxford and was now reading law in the Temple. -He was intensely interested in America and everything pertaining to it. -Thus, on hearing that a ship just arrived from the New World was in the -Thames, he hastened to board her, that he might converse with those who -had so recently trod the shores he longed to visit. Nahma was the first -American he had ever seen, and he regarded him with a lively curiosity -that was changed to pity at sight of his hopeless face. Now he turned -fiercely on the Jew who by payment of a paltry sum of money had become -master of the young stranger's fate. - -"What do you intend to do with him?" he asked. - -"Vat vould you have done mit him yourself had your purse been as full -as your stomach?" asked the other, impudently. - -"I would have found for him a home in which he might be taught -Christianity and civilization, and then I would have taken the first -opportunity for sending him back to his own land." - -"Mayhap those be the very things I also vould do by the young heathen; -who knows?" replied the furrier, with a leer. "At any rate, I have -charge of him now, and vill take him at once to my happy home. You may -set him ashore for me, captain." - -"Not I," responded Captain Dermer. "I have no longer aught to do with -him. Take him ashore yourself." - -Thus confronted with his new responsibility, the man approached Nahma -and, seizing him roughly by an arm, said, "Come mit me, heathen." - -With a quick motion the young Indian wrenched himself free and faced -his new master with so fierce a look that the latter involuntarily -quailed beneath it and stepped back. - -"Ah!" he snarled, "that's your game, is it? Ve'll see who comes out -best." - -With this he called to some men of his employ who were hoisting out -bales of furs and bade them come to him, bringing a stout cord. - -"Hold!" cried Winslow, stepping beside the young Indian. "See you not -that he is desperate, and that if you try to bind him there will be -bloodshed? He will surely kill you, if he dies for it the next moment. -Leave him to me and I will guarantee to take him where you may desire, -only I give you warning to treat him decently and without violence." - -Thus saying the speaker held out his hand to Nahma, and by signs -intimated that he was to accompany him. - -By instinct the young American had recognized this youth as a friend, -and now he unhesitatingly left the ship in his company. - -As a mob would have been attracted by the appearance of an American -Indian in the crowded streets, a covered cart belonging to the furrier -was procured, and in it our lad was driven to a rear entrance of his -master's shop, which fronted on a fashionable thoroughfare, while the -others reached the same place on foot. - -During that bewildering ride Nahma sat with stolid face but with keen -eyes, taking in all the marvellous details of his surroundings. Next to -the throngs of people hurrying to and fro along the narrow, crooked, -and ill-paved streets, the appearance of horses most impressed him, for -never had he seen beasts at once so large and so completely under the -control of man. - -No word passed between Winslow and the furrier until their destination -was reached. Then the latter asked, sneeringly,-- - -"Now, me lud, vat vill your 'ighness do next?" - -"I will go inside and see him disposed," replied the young man, calmly. - -"Oh, vell, come in and view the royal apartments," said the other, -willing to have Winslow continue his responsibility until the new -acquisition was safely housed. - -So the young Indian was taken from the cart and led into the shop, -causing a buzz of excitement among the few who saw him climbing a -narrow back stairway. He was finally guided to a small chamber directly -beneath the roof and lighted by a single window that could not be -opened. Had it not been for Winslow's reassuring presence, Nahma would -have refused to ascend those stairs, which, being the first he had ever -encountered, filled him with dismay. - -After Winslow had seen the stranger in whom he took so great an -interest thus safely placed for the present and the furrier had locked -the door on his captive, the two descended again to the shop. - -"What will you now do with him?" asked the former. - -"It may be I vill train him to my business and send him out to America -as a fur-buyer," answered the other. "Maybe I vill keep him as a -curiosity. I have not yet decided; but vatever I do is no concern of -yours." - -"Will you sell him to me?" - -"Maybe so ven I see your money." - -With this Winslow was forced to be content, and he departed with the -hope of redeeming his newly made friend and of carrying out his vaguely -formed intentions concerning him. Although twenty pounds was not a -large sum, it would embarrass him to procure it, since his family, -though well-to-do, were not people of wealth, and he was living on a -monthly allowance so small as barely to support him in gentility. - -In the mean time Nahma, left to his own melancholy company, gazed from -his window over the roofs and chimney-pots of London, feeling that no -greater evils could possibly befall him, and yet wondering vaguely what -would happen next. Food was brought to him and water, but no change in -his situation took place until the following morning. - -Then his master appeared accompanied by a coarse-featured man of -evident strength, whom the furrier had engaged to be keeper of his -new treasure. By them the young Indian was taken down to the shop, -where a small platform had been prepared for him. It was covered and -surrounded with costly furs, and here Nahma was seated with a fur robe -draped across his shoulders. Close at hand stood his keeper to see that -he neither escaped nor did injury to any about him. With the tableau -arranged, a stout 'prentice lad took a stand just outside the street -entrance and cried in lusty tones the novel attraction to be seen -within. - -"Step this way, lords and ladies. Come all ye gentlefolk, attend the -reception of his Highness, a native American cannibal prince just -arrived from the New World. Look within! Look within! Under the sign of -the Ermine Royal sits he. Free of charge are all gentlefolk invited to -meet him. This way, lords and ladies. Look within!" - -To this novel reception none but the well-dressed and evidently -well-to-do were admitted, since the poor could not be expected to -purchase furs then any more than now. And there would have been no -room for them in the limited space of the dingy little shop even had -they been admitted, for ere long it was crowded with fashionable folk -eager to be entertained by a novelty, while their retainers filled the -street. The spectators stared at Nahma and listened with credulous -ears to the marvellous tales told concerning him by the furrier, who, -clad in gorgeous raiment, acted the parts of host and showman. Also -many of them purchased furs, which was more to the purpose. Never had -the Ermine Royal done such a business, and never had its proprietor -greater reason to be satisfied with a venture. - -Amid all came Edward Winslow with his twenty pounds, which he proffered -to the Jew in return for Nahma's release. But the latter laughed him to -scorn. - -"For twenty pund did you think to get him, me lud? Nay, that was the -price I paid, as you vell know, and I must at least double my money. -Forty pund is my lowest offer, and fifty if he continues to attract -trade as at present. Speech mit him? I have no objection, only have a -care that you seek not to seduce him from my service, or a thing might -happen not to your liking." - -Keenly disappointed at this result of his undertaking, the young man -pushed his way through the crowd until he stood close to the platform, -when he called, softly,-- - -"Massasoit." - -Instantly a glad light flashed into the eyes of the dejected figure -thus set up for a show, and, turning eagerly in that direction, he -exclaimed,-- - -"Winslow." - -Then the two friends clasped hands, and Winslow managed to convey the -information that he would come again on the morrow. - -He kept his promise; and, though he had not succeeded in securing the -money necessary to redeem the young Indian, his visit brought much -comfort. For many days thereafter he came regularly, often bringing -some little thing that he thought might give pleasure; and these daily -glimpses of a friendly face were the only rays of light penetrating the -unhappy darkness of Nahma's captivity. He was never allowed to leave -the building, and was only marched to and fro up and down those weary -stairs between the den in which he lived and the hated platform on -which he was exhibited to gaping customers. - -At the end of three weeks Winslow, having received his month's -allowance and so raised the necessary forty pounds, tendered it to the -fur-dealer for the release of his slave, only to be told that the -price had again been doubled. - -Upon this the young man flew into a rage and there was an exchange of -bitter words, that ended in Winslow being told to mind his own affairs -and not attempt an interference with those that did not concern him. -As several 'prentice lads had gathered near during this quarrel and -stood eagerly awaiting their master's permission to pounce upon the -stranger, he realized the weakness of his position, and prudently ended -the affair by withdrawing from the scene. At the same time he was as -determined as ever to effect Nahma's deliverance, and that speedily. - -For this purpose he invited a number of the more reckless of his Temple -companions to a dinner, at which he told the story of Massasoit and -enlisted their sympathies in his behalf. Then he proposed a rescue, to -which they enthusiastically agreed. - -According to this plan they were to meet near the furrier's shop at -the busiest hour of the second day from then, each man wearing his -sword, and prepared to use it if necessary. There they were to mingle -with the sight-seers and resist any attempts at interference with the -movements of Winslow. The latter undertook to spirit the young Indian -out of the same rear entrance through which he had first been brought, -into an unfrequented alley, while one of his friends should for a -moment distract the attention of the keeper. - -To perfect the details of this scheme and provide a safe retreat for -him whom they proposed to rescue occupied two days, and then all was -in readiness. At this point the would-be rescuers were confronted -by an unforeseen and insurmountable obstacle. The young Indian had -disappeared. He was no longer an inmate of the furrier's shop, and no -one could or would give the slightest information concerning him. - - - - -CHAPTER XXI - -A CHANGE OF MASTERS - - -For some days Nahma's master had been uneasy about him. Close -confinement, lack of exercise and fresh air, and a hopeless melancholy -were so telling upon the captive that his health was seriously -affected. He was thin and miserable, had no appetite, and suffered from -a hacking cough. These things troubled the fur-dealer, not because of -his humanity, for he had none, but because of a prospect of losing the -money he had invested in this bit of perishable property. He was also -alarmed by Winslow's interest in the young Indian, and feared the very -thing that the former had planned. - -Then, too, one of his gentleman customers had suggested that when the -fact of an American prince being in London came to the king's ears he -would probably order him to be brought to the palace. In that case, as -the furrier well knew, he would never be recompensed for his outlay, -since King James was not given to spending unnecessary money, and -he might even be called to account for holding a royal personage in -captivity. He wished now that he had not described his Indian as a -prince; and, all things considered, decided that the sooner he got rid -of him the better off he would be. - -It happened that while he was in this frame of mind he was visited -by a travelling mountebank, whose business was to exhibit freaks and -curiosities of whatsoever kind he could obtain, at country fairs. -Having heard of the fur-dealer's Indian, he went to see him, and was so -impressed with his value as an attraction that he promptly offered ten -pounds for him. - -"Already haf I refused forty," replied the furrier. - -"It was doubtless offered when he was in condition. Now, as any one may -see, he is on the verge of a quick decline and is like to die on your -hands. It would be a risk to take him at any price, and it will cost a -pretty penny to restore him to health, without which he is of no more -value than a mangy dog." - -"But I haf advanced twenty pund for his passage-money, and haf been at -the expense of his keep ever since." - -"A cost that has been repaid a thousand-fold by the advertisement he -has given your wares. But to insure you against loss, which I well know -a Jew hates worse than death itself, I will give twenty pounds for the -varlet, sick and scrawny though he be. What say you? Is it a bargain?" - -"Hand over the price and he is yours." - -Of course the subject of this barter was not consulted concerning it. -Nor did he know anything of the change about to come over his life -until darkness had fallen. Then, as he lay on his bed of musty straw, -dreaming of the free forest life that was once his, he was startled by -the entrance into his room of two men, one of whom bore a rush-light. -In him Nahma recognized his hated keeper, but the other was a stranger. - -"Come," said the former, gruffly; and, glad of any break in the deadly -monotony of his life, Nahma obediently followed him, while the other -brought up the rear. - -Down-stairs they went and out into the darkness of the streets, where -each of the men grasped him by an arm as though fearful that he might -attempt an escape. The young Indian smiled bitterly as he realized -this, for nothing was further from his thought. In all that wilderness -of houses he had but one friend, and he knew no more where to look for -Winslow than he would if the latter were dead. To him all other white -men represented cruelty and injustice, therefore nothing was to be -gained by escaping from those who held him. He would only fall into -the clutches of others against whom he would be equally powerless. So -he went along quietly and with apparent willingness, somewhat to the -surprise of his new master. - -"I fail to note but that he goes readily enough," he remarked. -"Methought you said he was vicious and like to prove troublesome." - -"Oh, he's quiet enough now," replied the other, "but wait and see. -They're as treacherous, these Hammerican savages, as cats. Purr till -they see a good chance and then scratch. If they draw life's blood -they're all the more pleased. I knows 'em, for I've had experience, -and my word! but you've got to watch 'em every minute." - -It was by such representations that the keeper hoped to induce the -showman to continue him in his present easy position. Now he wished -that his charge would make some aggressive exhibition merely to -demonstrate the necessity for his own presence. He slyly pinched -the prisoner's arm until it was ready to bleed, with the hope of at -least causing him to cry out; but Nahma endured the pain with all the -stoicism of his race and gave no sign. - -Thus they proceeded through a weary labyrinth of foul streets, only -lighted at long intervals by flaring torches borne by retainers of -well-to-do pedestrians, until finally they turned into the yard of -a rambling tavern that stood on the outskirts of the town. It was a -famous resort for wagoners who transported goods to and from all parts -of the kingdom, and its court was now crowded with ponderous vehicles -and their lading. - -Here Nahma was thrust for safe-keeping into an outhouse, the air of -which was close and foul, and its door was barred behind him. To our -unhappy lad it seemed as if the whole remainder of his life was to be -marked only by a succession of imprisonments, each more dismal than -its predecessor. In Quebec he had had Tasquanto's companionship and -an open window. On shipboard he had been given the same comrade and a -daily outing. In the furrier's establishment he had had a window and an -occasional hand-clasp from Winslow; but here he was alone, in absolute -darkness, and gasping for a breath of fresh air. - -The wretched night finally came to an end, and with the first gray of -morning his new master appeared, bringing an armful of coarse clothing, -soiled and worn. Stripping Nahma of his buckskin suit, he compelled him -to don these ill-fitting garments, and then left him a platter of bones -for his breakfast. - -A little later they were on the road, and, to his amazement, Nahma -found himself leading a bear. It was a big brown bear, and its -whole head was enclosed in a stout muzzle; but, in spite of this, -our young Indian, who had never heard of a tame bear, felt anything -but comfortable at finding himself in such company unarmed. Besides -himself and the bear, the party was made up of the showman, a -cadaverous youth answering to the name of "Blink," who afterwards -proved to be a contortionist, and a heavily laden pack-horse. To -Nahma's relief, the big man who had acted as his keeper was no longer -of the company. - -For a time our lad was so taken up with his bear and the discomforts -of his unaccustomed clothing that he paid but slight attention to -his surroundings. Then, all of a sudden, he uttered a cry of amazed -delight, for they were entering a forest. No longer were houses to be -seen, no longer was the horrid din of the city to be heard. Once more -was he beneath green trees, with the songs of birds ringing in his ears -and the smell of the woods in his nostrils. He drew in long breaths -of the scented air, and a new light came into his eyes. Having found -a forest, might he not also hope to discover people of his own kind? -If there were forests in this strange land and bears, why should there -not also be Indians? At any rate, he would keep a sharp watch, and -if he should see any, how quickly he would take leave of his present -companions and join them! - -That night they lay at an inn, where an iron shackle was locked about -one of Nahma's ankles, and, with the bear, he was chained up in a -stable. On the following day they reached a straggling country town in -which a fair was to be held and where they were to give an exhibition. -Here they pitched a tent. Nahma's suit of buckskin was restored to him, -and he was again made to paint his face. - -In this first exhibition he had nothing to do but stand and be stared -at by curious rustics, but after this he was taught and encouraged to -perform a number of acts in company with the bear. One of these was to -shoot, with bow and arrow, an apple, or some other small object, from -the animal's head. Then they would wrestle together, and finally a sort -of a dance was arranged for them, in which Blink, made up as a clown -for the occasion, also took part. Thus the show became so unique and -popular that its proprietor coined more money than any other on the -road. - -But with prosperity came an evil more terrible even than adversity; -for, with money to spend, the showman began to squander it in gambling -and drinking until it was a rare thing for him to draw a sober breath. -He became quarrelsome with his intimates and brutal to those in his -power. His poor bear was beaten and tortured to make it learn new -tricks until it became a snarling, morose beast, influenced only -by fear, and dangerous to all except the young Indian, who was its -fellow-sufferer. He, too, was abused, starved, beaten, and in all ways -maltreated for not learning faster and pouring more money into his -master's bottomless pockets. - -One day, while Nahma and the bear were wearily performing their antics -before a crowd of gaping yokels in the market-place of a small shire -town in the west, the youth's attention was drawn to a child who was -uttering shrill cries of pleasure. She was a dainty little thing with -flaxen hair and blue eyes, exquisitely dressed, and was in charge of a -maid. They had come from a coach that was drawn up before a shop near -by, and the throng had opened to make way for them until they stood in -the very front rank. - -Suddenly the child, in an ecstasy of delight, pulled away from her -nurse and ran forward with the evident intention of caressing the bear -as though he had been a big dog. The brute was so tired, hungry, and -cross that Nahma had with difficulty kept him to his work. Now, with -a snarl and a fierce gleam in his small bloodshot eyes, he raised a -threatening paw as though to sweep away the little fluttering thing -that came running so confidently towards him. - -A great cry rose from the crowd. The maid, so terrified as to be -incapable of motion, screamed and covered her face with her hands; but -Nahma, darting forward, snatched the child from under the descending -paw. So narrow was the escape that his left arm was torn from shoulder -to elbow by the cruel claws, and he staggered beneath the blow. - -The showman, who had been passing his cap among the spectators, ran -to the bear and, beating him over the head with a stout cudgel, drove -him to his quarters in a near-by stable. Part of the populace cheered -Nahma, while others demanded the death of the bear, and amid all the -confusion came the mother of the little girl, frantic with terror. To -her our lad delivered the child, frightened but unharmed. Then, without -waiting to be rewarded, or even thanked, he ran to look after his -friend the bear. - - - - -CHAPTER XXII - -NAHMA AND THE BEAR RUN AWAY - - -Nahma found the showman and Blink engaged in a violent dispute over -the bear. The former was insisting that Blink should escape, with -the animal, from the rear of the stable and lead it to a place of -concealment on the outskirts of the village, where he would join them -later. In the mean time he would divert the attention of the mob until -the escape could be made. Blink, who was not on friendly terms with the -bear, was refusing on the ground that, with the animal in its present -temper, his life would not be worth a moment's purchase. - -"Then let the heathen take him, and do you go along to see that they -do not give us the slip," exclaimed the man, as Nahma appeared and -a howl from the mob announced their approach. Their interest had -been distracted for a minute while they watched the lady with the -frightened child in her arms regain her coach, which was immediately -driven away. Now they were ready to settle with the bear, and turned -towards the stable in which he had taken refuge. As they drew near -the showman, who, though a brute, was no coward, appeared in its open -doorway and confronted them. - -"Good my masters," he cried, "what seek you?" - -"Thy bear!" roared a dozen voices. "Bring forth thy bear that we may -bait him. He is not fit to live, and must be slain." - -Again the showman attempted to speak, but his voice was drowned in the -bedlam of cries raised by the mob; and, losing control of his temper, -he shook his cudgel defiantly at them. Upon this a shower of stones was -hurled at him, and one of them striking him on the head, he staggered -and fell. At this the mob halted, and some even sneaked away, fearful -of consequences. The village barber, who was also its surgeon, bustled -forward to make an examination of the wounded man. He was conscious, -but in spite of, or possibly on account of, copious bloodletting, -which was the only remedy administered, he died a few hours later. - -So completely was public attention distracted by this tragic event, -that for a time no thought was given to the original cause of the -disturbance, and, finally, when search was made for the bear, he -was nowhere to be seen. Not until the following day was any trace -discovered of those who had been in the showman's company. Then the -one known as "Blink" was found on the edge of a wood, helplessly bound -and half dead from a night of cold and terror. He could only tell -that, having escaped with the bear and the heathen, the latter had -suddenly set upon him without warning or provocation and reduced him to -the condition in which he was discovered. What had become of them or -whither they had gone he knew not, nor did he care. He only hoped he -would never again set eyes on the savage monsters who were so unfit for -Christian company. - -In the mean time Nahma and his companions had found no difficulty in -leaving the village unnoticed, since all public attention was for the -moment drawn in the opposite direction. Thus they successfully gained -the woodland that had been appointed by the showman as a place of -rendezvous. Here the young American suddenly realized that only Blink -stood between him and the freedom for which he longed. Up to this time -he had been shackled at night and so closely watched by day that no -chance of escape had offered. Now one had come, and so quick was our -lad to take advantage of it that within a minute the unsuspecting Blink -was lying helplessly bound hand and foot with his own kerchief and a -sash that formed part of his professional costume. Thus was he left, -while Nahma and the bear, whom the former now regarded as his sole -friend in all the world, plunged into the forest depths and disappeared. - -The England of that long-ago date was a very different country from -the England of to-day, and its entire population hardly exceeded two -millions of souls. Its few cities were small, and connected by highways -so abominable that travellers frequently lost their way while trying -to follow them. Not more than one-quarter of the arable lands were -under cultivation, while the remainder was covered with dark forests -and great fens, marshes, and desolate moors across which one might -journey for a day without sight of human habitation. Game of all kinds -abounded, and its hunting formed the chief recreation of the gentry and -of those nobles who left London during a portion of the year to dwell -on their estates. - -Thus our young Indian, upon gaining his freedom, found himself amid -surroundings at once familiar and congenial. He had with him the bow -and arrows used in his recent exhibitions, a fire-bag containing -flint, steel, and tinder, and a dirk that had been taken from Blink. -Thus provided he had no anxiety on the score of maintaining himself -comfortably. He realized that the bear was an encumbrance, but in his -present loneliness he was loath to part from it. And so the two pushed -on together until they had penetrated several miles into the forest, -when darkness overtook them. - -Then Nahma made a fire beside a small stream and cooked a rabbit he had -shot an hour earlier, while the bear nosed about for acorns, grubs, and -edible roots. - -They continued to traverse the forest on the following day, keeping -to the same general direction until our lad was satisfied that he -was beyond danger from pursuit, when he began to look about for a -supper and a camping-place. Both of these came at the same time, for -on discovering, successfully stalking, and finally killing a deer, he -found that the animal had been drinking from a spring of clear water, -beside which he determined to establish his camp. Further than this he -had no plans. It was enough for the present that he was free, in the -forest that he loved, and beyond all knowledge of the white man whom -he hated. Here, then, he would abide for a time, or until he should -discover people of his own kind, for he was still impressed with the -belief that others like himself must inhabit those game-filled forests. - -That night both he and the bear, to whom he talked as though it were a -human being, ate to their satisfaction of deer meat, and Nahma lay down -to sleep beside his shaggy friend, happier than he had been at any time -since leaving his native land. - -The next morning he was early astir and ready to begin work on the -lodge that he proposed to construct. By mid-day he had the poles of the -frame cut, set in the ground, arched over until they met, and fastened -in position. Then he went in quest of proper material for a thatch -or covering. The bear, having spent the morning in feeding, was left -behind, chained to a small tree and fast asleep. - -While searching for the material he wanted Nahma struck the fresh -trail of a deer, which after a long chase he overtook and killed. -As he was returning with the hide and haunches on his back he was -startled by a baying of hounds, which changed as he listened to a -snarling, growling, and yelping that indicated a battle royal. From -the nature and direction of these sounds our lad realized that trouble -of some kind had come to the bear, and, without a thought of danger to -himself, he ran to the assistance of his comrade. Reaching the scene, -he found the bear, though sadly hampered by his chain, making a gallant -fight against a pack of boar-hounds that had come across him while -ranging the forest. They were fierce, gaunt creatures, and although -two of their number, already knocked out, were lying to one side -feebly licking their wounds, it was evident that the chained bear was -overmatched and must speedily be dragged down. Flinging away his burden -and drawing his dirk, Nahma rushed forward and sprang into the thick of -the fray, uttering the fierce war-cry of the Iroquois as he did so. - -For a few minutes there was a furious and indiscriminate mingling of -bear, dogs, and man, then of a sudden the young Indian was seized -from behind, dragged backward, and flung to the ground by one of two -men clad in the green dress of foresters, who had just arrived on the -scene. While Nahma's assailant hastily but securely fastened the lad's -arms so as to render him harmless, the other ranger ended the battle, -still raging, by thrusting a keen-bladed boar-spear through the bear's -body. It pierced the animal's heart, and he sank with a sobbing groan. - -"A fair sorrowful bit o' wark this, Jean," remarked the man who had -killed the bear, as he examined the several dogs. "Fower dead; two -killed by yon brute and two by the dirk of this wastrel. All the rest -gouged, cut, and bit up. But he'll answer for it smartly when once Sir -Amory claps eyes on him, the thievin', murthren gypsy poacher." - -"Yes, I reckon he'll sweat fine," replied the other, with a grin; "but -did iver thou see bear chained afore?" - -"Noa, niver. Lucky thing 'twas, though. But come on whoam. Bring -Poacher with 'e, and we'll send pack-horse for bear. No use looking -furder for pigs this day." - -So poor Nahma, once more bereft of his freedom and of the dumb brute -whom he regarded as his only friend, his garments rent and his body -bleeding from a dozen wounds, was marched away between the two stout -rangers, while after them trooped the dogs. - -Sir Amory Effingham, a knight in high favor at court, was lord of that -region, and being devoted to the chase, he spent several months of each -year at Garnet Hall, the ivy-covered forest castle in which his family -had been cradled for generations. It lay a league from the scene of -Nahma's capture, and by the time he was brought within sight of its -battlemented towers the short day was closing and night was at hand. - -While one of the rangers kennelled the dogs and looked after their -wounds, the other thrust Nahma, with his hurts still unattended, into -an empty store-room, locked its door, and went to make report of what -had taken place. - -"A gypsy, eh? A poacher, caught red-handed, and a dog-killer, is he?" -quoth Sir Amory, angrily. "Hanging will be too good for him. He should -be drawn and quartered as an example to all of his kidney, and I will -deal with his case in the morning. Look well to him, then, see that he -escapes not, and bring him to me in the great hall after the breaking -of fast." - -"Yes, Sir Amory." - -"And, Jean, send for that bear and have his pelt taken before the body -stiffens." - -"Yes, Sir Amory." - -"Also, Jean, give both the dogs and the prisoner a good feed of bear's -meat." - -So all was done as directed; only Nahma, realizing the nature of the -food thrown to him some hours later, refused to eat of it. - - - - -CHAPTER XXIII - -AN HONORED GUEST - - -On the following morning, after the lord of the manor, his family, and -all his retainers had partaken of their rude but abundant breakfast, -and washed it down with copious draughts of ale, which at that time -took the place of coffee or tea, Sir Amory ordered the prisoner of -the preceding evening to be brought before him. The dining-tables, -which were merely boards laid on trestles, were cleared away, and the -great hall was made ready to serve as a court of justice. Witnesses -were summoned, and spectators gathered, until but few of the knight's -following were absent. Squires, pages, men-at-arms, grooms, foresters, -and under-servants, all filled with an eager curiosity, flocked to the -scene of trial; for the case in hand was of so serious a nature that -its resulting punishment would be certain to afford vast entertainment. - -In those days the killing of a deer by any person beneath the rank of -a gentleman was a capital offence; while the killing of a hunting dog -by one of the peasant class ranked as a crime so abominable as to merit -the severest penalty. For either of these things the offender might be -hanged, whipped to death, or executed in any other fitting manner, at -the discretion of the judge. He might not be beheaded, as that form -of punishment was reserved for offences against the state, committed -by persons of rank. Neither might he be burned, since the stake was -only for witches and victims of religious persecution. If the lord of -the manor were inclined to be merciful, the deer-stealer or dog-killer -might be given his life, and escape with some such slight punishment -as having his ears cropped or a hand chopped off; but in the present -case it was universally agreed that the crime was of a nature to demand -the severest possible punishment. Thus, when the prisoner appeared, -he was regarded with eager curiosity as one who promised to furnish a -spectacle of uncommon interest. - -Friendless, wounded, ragged, half starved, and utterly ignorant of the -situation confronting him, the son of Longfeather was led the whole -length of the great hall to the dais at its upper end, on which sat the -master of his fate. As he was halted, Sir Amory exclaimed,-- - -"On my soul, as scurvy a knave as ever I set eyes upon. I knew not that -even a gypsy could present so foul an aspect. What is thy name and -condition, sirrah?" - -Not understanding what was said, Nahma made no answer. Only, recalling -the teaching of his own people, he stared his questioner full in the -face with a mien that, in spite of his sorry plight, was quite as -haughty as that of the knight himself. - -"A contumacious varlet and insolent," remarked Sir Amory, "but it is -possible that we may find means to lower his pride. Let the ranger -named Jem stand forth and relate his tale of the occurrence concerning -which this investigation is made." - -So Jem told his story, and it was corroborated by the other forester. -Also were the dead hounds introduced as evidence, together with the -dirk that Nahma had used so effectively. - -"What hast thou to say in thy own behalf, scoundrel?" asked the knight, -turning again to the prisoner after all this testimony against him had -been submitted. - -Still there was no answer, but only an unflinching gaze and a proudly -uplifted head. - -"Think you the creature is dumb?" inquired the puzzled magistrate. - -"No, Sir Amory," replied one of the foresters, "of a surety he is not, -for we heard him call loudly to the bear, and at sound of his voice the -beast made violent effort to break his chain that he might get to him." - -"Chain?" quoth the knight. "This is the first mention I have heard of -any chain. What mean you? Was the bear indeed chained?" - -"Chained and muzzled was he," admitted the ranger, "else it had gone -more hardly with the dogs than happened." - -"Chained and muzzled," repeated the knight, reflectively, and -casting a searching gaze upon the prisoner. "Still, it may be only a -coincidence." With this he gave an order in a low tone to a page who -stood at hand, and the boy darted away. - -"Saw you trace of other gypsies at or near that place?" asked the -knight, continuing his examination of the forester. - -"No, Sir Amory. That is, we saw no humans, but there was a booth partly -built close at hand." - -"What is the material of the prisoner's dress?" - -"Deer-skin, Sir Amory, nothing less." - -At this moment a tapestry was drawn aside, and a lady, appearing on the -dais, stood beside her husband with a look of inquiry. She was followed -by one bearing in her arms a child, at sight of which the prisoner was -surprised into a momentary start as of recognition. - -"My dear," said Sir Amory, "will you favor us by glancing at yonder -gypsy and telling if ever you have set eyes on him before?" - -The lady looked in the direction indicated, but shook her head. Ere she -could speak, however, the maid, who had followed her gaze, uttered a -cry, and exclaimed,-- - -"It is the very one, my lady. The youth, I mean, who danced with that -dreadful bear and saved the life of my little mistress." - -"Yes," said the lady, slowly. "I did not recognize him on the moment; -but now me-thinks he is the same from whose hands I received my child, -safe and unharmed, though blood-bespattered. But, Amory, what is he -doing here? A prisoner and under guard! Surely----" - -"It is all a mistake," cried the knight, rising to his feet in great -agitation. "He is not a prisoner, but an honored guest. Nor is he -under guard, but under the protection of one who owes to him a life -dearer than his own. Gentlemen, the hearing is dismissed; the prisoner -is honorably acquitted, and will hereafter be known as my friend, if -indeed he can forgive the cruel wrong I meditated against him. Away, -ye varlets. Bring food and wine. Fetch warm water and clean napery, -salve and liniments. Body o' me! The youth is wounded and hath had no -attention. He looks ready to drop with weakness. Draw a settle for him -beside the fire. Fetch----" - -But the servants were already flying in every direction in their -efforts to minister to the evident needs of him whose position had -undergone so sudden a transformation. - -At the same time Nahma himself was even more bewildered by the good -fortune that was overwhelming him than ever by the hard fate that had -for so long been his constant attendant. - -Somewhat later the lady who, with her companions, had withdrawn, came -again to the hall, and stepping to where she could obtain a good view -of the youth, looked at him steadily for the space of a minute. He, in -the mean time, had been bathed and fed, his wounds had been dressed, -and he wore a body-gown from the knight's own wardrobe that gave him an -air of grace and dignity. - -"He is no gypsy, Sir Amory," said the lady, finally, withdrawing her -gaze and turning to her husband. - -"I myself am beginning to doubt if he belongs to those nomads," replied -the knight. "But if not a gypsy, to what race can he lay claim, with -that tinge of color and with hair of such raven blackness?" - -"Dost remember the tale told us in London by my cousin Edward -concerning an arrival from the New World in whom he had taken an -interest?" - -"Ay, well do I, and it so aroused my curiosity that I made an errand -shortly after to the place where he was said to be, but he had -disappeared. How was he called? Can you remember the name?" - -"He was called 'Massasoit,'" replied the lady, uttering the word -distinctly and observing the youth as she spoke. - -Turning quickly he looked at her with eager questioning. - -"Who are your friends?" she asked, addressing him directly and speaking -the words slowly. - -He understood and answered, "Bear frien'. Tasquanto frien'. White man -frien', Winslow." - -"That proves it!" cried the lady, triumphantly. "He must be the -American Indian of whom Cousin Edward told us, and who is said to be a -prince in his own country. At any rate, as he certainly saved the life -of our child, we have ample reason to befriend him." - -"Indeed, yes," agreed Sir Amory. "And to fail in a duty so plainly -indicated would lay us open to the charge of base ingratitude." - -Thus it happened that the young American who had been kidnapped from -his own country, sold as a slave in London, and finally arrested on a -charge that threatened to cost him his life, became the honored guest -of a stately English home. His hosts sought in every way to promote -his comfort and happiness, and when they discovered that he preferred -living in the open to dwelling under a roof, he was promptly given -the freedom of their domain. He was also accorded full liberty to -dwell on it where he pleased, and to kill such of its abundant game as -would supply his needs. Armed with this permission, Nahma immediately -repaired to the place where he had already begun the building of a -lodge after the fashion of his own people, and completed it to his -satisfaction as well as that of his hosts, who took a lively interest -in his work. He covered it with bark and lined its interior with the -skins of fur-bearing animals. In the centre was his fireplace, and at -one side his couch of dry sedge-grass covered with the great shaggy -hide of his one-time friend, the bear. Here our Indian dwelt almost as -contentedly as though in his own land and under the trees of his native -forest. - -Much of his time was devoted to accompanying Sir Amory on his hunting -expeditions, during which the youth's marvellous skill in tracking game -and his fearlessness in moments of peril won for him both admiration -and respect. - -On days when there was no hunting he busied himself with making bows, -arrows, or snow-shoes, and in receiving visits from the green-coated -foresters, whose tastes and pursuits were so similar to his own. He -taught them some things, but learned more than he taught; and chiefest -of all the things that he learned was to load and fire a musket. Thus -was solved the mystery of the white man's thunder-stick, and he could -now smile as he recalled the melancholy experience of Tasquanto and -himself in attempting to fire a salute. - -So some months were happily passed, and it seemed as though our young -American would spend the remainder of his life as an English forester. -Then all of a sudden there occurred an amazing thing, by which he was -rendered so unhappy that he no longer cared to live if the balance of -his days must be passed under existing conditions. - - - - -CHAPTER XXIV - -NAHMA REMEMBERS - - -Most welcome of all the guests at Nahma's lodge was the little lady -Betty, who was sometimes taken thither by her father mounted in front -of him on his great Flemish horse Baldric. A strong friendship had -sprung up between the child and the young Indian, and she was never -happier than during the hour occasionally spent with him. She always -brought some little gift, and he never failed to have ready a unique -bit of his own handiwork to offer in return. Once it was a wee bow and -a quiver of small stone-headed arrows. Again he presented her with the -beautifully dressed skin of an otter. At length he completed a pair of -tiny snow-shoes gayly fringed and ornamented. For some days after they -were finished he waited expectantly the coming of his little friend, -and as she failed to appear, he finally decided to take his gift to the -castle. - -Now, it happened that Sir Amory, being called by some business to the -near-by city of Bristol, had taken his wife and little daughter with -him for a brief visit, from which they had just returned. As was usual -on such occasions, they had brought back a number of trifling gifts for -members of the household, and also one for the young Indian whom they -held in such high esteem. - -The city of Bristol, more than any other in England, was building up -a trade with the New World. While this trade was more especially with -the Virginia plantations, it was gradually extending northward along -the American coast. Thus a ship, recently returned, had voyaged as far -north as the French settlements, trading with natives wherever found on -her way. This ship had brought back many curious things, among which -was an object of native make that Sir Amory, having his Indian guest in -his mind, purchased on sight. - -"It may interest him," he said to his wife, "and, at any rate, it will -be something for Betty to take him when next she and I ride to his -lodge." So this present was fetched home with the others, and was to -have been carried out to Nahma on the very day of his appearance at the -castle. - -On learning that the Indian waited outside with a gift for Betty, Sir -Amory ordered him to be brought in. The knight and his lady together -with several guests were grouped near the huge fireplace in the great -hall as Nahma entered and, advancing gravely, extended a hand to his -host. Then, looking about inquiringly, he pronounced the single word -"Betty." - -"I' faith!" laughed the knight, "the young man hath quickly recognized -the most important personage of this establishment and will have -dealings with none other. Let Mistress Betty be brought." - -As soon as the little girl appeared, the young Indian, kneeling -gracefully, presented her with his gift. After the tiny snow-shoes had -been passed from hand to hand for inspection and their use had been -explained, Lady Effingham said,-- - -"Now, Betty, give him the present fetched from Bristol." - -Thus saying she placed a small packet in the child's hand, and the -latter, advancing shyly, handed it to Nahma. With a smiling face the -young warrior undid the wrappings of the packet until its contents were -exposed. Suddenly his expression changed to one of consternation and -bewilderment. For a moment he held the object in his hands gazing at -it wildly and in evident perplexity. Then he uttered a great cry and -a gush of tears filled his eyes. He gasped and seemed about to speak; -but, words failing him, he turned and fled from the hall, leaving its -occupants amazed at his strange actions. - -"It is doubtless a native charm of some kind," quoth the knight, -breaking the silence, "and a powerful one at that, for never did I see -a man so upset by a trifle. After a little, when he has had time to -quiet down, I will question him concerning his agitation, but until -then we must amuse ourselves with conjecture." - -In the mean time Nahma had not paused in his flight until reaching his -own lodge. There he sat down and examined his newly acquired prize -with minutest care, alternately laughing and crying as he did so. At -length, apparently satisfied with his inspection, he said aloud in the -long forgotten tongue of the Wampanoags,-- - -"Truly it is my father's wampum, and I am Nahma, the son of -Longfeather." - -It was indeed the Belt of Seven Totems, thus marvellously restored to -him from whose unconscious form it had been taken nearly three years -earlier in the far-away land of the Iroquois. Not only had Nahma thus -regained his father's badge of authority, but at sight of it the memory -of his earlier years, lost to him ever since he had been struck down -by Miantinomo, was abruptly and fully restored. He recalled who he was -and found himself once more in command of his native tongue. He also -remembered every incident of his journey to the country of the Maqua as -though it had been undertaken but the day before. He even remembered -lying down for a brief rest after eating his supper on the western bank -of the Shatemuc; but beyond that came a blank, and his next memory was -of Aeana in the lodge of Kaweras. - -As these things passed through his mind in rapid review, he was also -whelmed by a great wave of home-sickness. The voices of his own people -rang in his ears, and he heard the plash of waves on the beach at -Montaup. The scent of burning cedar from the evening camp-fires was -in his nostrils, and he felt the spring of brown pine needles beneath -his feet as he threaded the dim forest trails of his native land. In -a bark canoe he once more ran the foaming rapids of great rivers, or, -lying beside Tasquanto, he was lulled to sleep by the roar of mighty -cataracts. So distinct were the pictures thus flashed before him by the -magic belt that he had no longer a wish to live unless he could once -more gaze upon them in reality. Every other feeling was merged in an -intense desire to regain his own country and rejoin his own people. - -At length the longing for these things became so great that the youth -sprang to his feet, determined to set forth at once in quest of them. -His reason told him that such an adventure was well-nigh hopeless; but -the wampum belt urged him forward and persuaded him that by some means -he would succeed. So Nahma departed forever from the lodge that, but -an hour earlier, had seemed his home for life, and set forth on the -tremendous journey. He took with him only his weapons, a fur cloak, the -fire-bag that had once belonged to Aeana, and the Belt of Seven Totems -girded about his body next his skin. - -As he emerged from the lodge he stood for a moment irresolute. Whither -should he turn? What path would lead him to Montaup? Then the last word -uttered in his hearing by Betty's mother rang again in his ears. It -was "Bristol." From there the belt had but recently come, and there he -would begin to retrace its mysterious course to the place where he had -lost it. He had heard the foresters speak of Bristol, and he knew that -it lay in the direction of the setting sun. What Bristol was, or how -far away, he did not know, any more than what he should do upon getting -there. It was enough that his first step was decided upon, and without -a single backward glance he began his long homeward journey. - -An hour later Sir Amory on his good horse Baldric, and with mistress -Betty in his arms, rode up to the deserted lodge and uttered a cheery -call for its supposed occupant to come forth. The knight was puzzled -at finding the place empty; and for several days thereafter he caused -search to be made for its recent owner. But nothing came of this, nor -for many years did he hear a word concerning the disappearance and -whereabouts of Massasoit. - -That night Nahma slept in the wood, as lonely and friendless a human -being as could be found in all the world, but so happy in his regained -memory and in the knowledge that he, like others, could now lay claim -to home and people, towards whom he was journeying, that nothing else -mattered. On the morrow he struck the broad trail of a highway that -led to the westward, and thereafter he followed it. Noting that his -appearance attracted attention from the few travellers whom he met, he -determined to procure a suit of clothing that would render him less -conspicuous. - -He dreaded to approach a house, and was at a loss how to accomplish his -purpose until at dusk of the second day. Then he ran across a camp-fire -surrounded by a group of dark-skinned persons, who for a moment he -believed to be people of his own race. He did not discover his mistake -until he was within the circle of fire-light and it was too late to -retreat. So he put on a bold face, accepted an invitation to eat with -the gypsies, and strove hard, though without success, to understand -what they said. - -They in turn were as much puzzled by him as he was by them; but this -did not prevent them from exchanging a well-worn suit of clothing for -Nahma's fur robe when he intimated by signs his willingness to make -such a trade. As soon as he procured these things he put them on over -his buckskin garments; and, as a dilapidated cap had been thrown in -to complete the bargain, he was so thoroughly disguised that even Sir -Amory would have failed to recognize him. - -The gypsies invited their guest to cast his fortunes with them, and -proposed among themselves to compel him to do so in any event. He -neither declined nor accepted their offer, but after a while lay down -to sleep near their fire, as though willing, at any rate, to remain -with them for the present. Thus they were much chagrined to find in -the morning that he had disappeared without leaving a trace to show -which way he had gone. - -So it happened that our wanderer came at length to the snug little -seaport of Bristol, at that time second in importance only to London. -And thus was taken the first step of his momentous journey. Dusk -was falling as he entered the place, and for some time he wandered -aimlessly through its narrow streets. - -Then, unexpectedly, he came to the water front and discovered ships, -some under sail and others anchored in the stream. His heart leaped at -sight of them, for he supposed that all ships passed to and from his -own country. Therefore if he could only find one about to depart, and -contrive to get on board, the second and longest step of his journey -would be provided for. - -He managed to exchange his bow and arrows for a meal in a small -public-house near the water, and when he had eaten it he again strolled -outside looking for a place in which to pass the night. It was now -quite dark, and, without going far, he lay down to sleep under the lee -of a boat that was drawn up on one of the wharves. - -Some hours later he was awakened by sounds of shouting and scuffling -close at hand, and sprang to his feet in alarm. As he did so a rough -voice called out,-- - -"Here's another stout fellow! Seize him, lads, and hustle him along." - -Immediately Nahma was surrounded, and, despite his furious struggles, -was quickly overthrown and securely bound. - - - - -CHAPTER XXV - -BACK TO AMERICA - - -For a short space our lad was heart-broken by this rude awakening from -his dreams of freedom and of a return to his own country. Half dazed as -he was, he had fought desperately; and now, hustled along in company -with a dozen other unfortunates, all bound and suffering from rough -handling, his sole thought was of how he could soonest put an end to -the life that he was resolved not to pass in slavery. He recalled with -satisfaction the dirk that, hidden in his clothing, still remained to -him, and was determined to use it at the earliest opportunity, first on -such of his present enemies as he could reach and then on himself. - -Suddenly his sombre reflections were interrupted and given a decided -change of direction by finding himself crowded, together with his -wretched companions, into a boat. No sooner had it received them than -it was rowed out to the mouth of the harbor where stood a ship under -easy sail. - -From the moment of realizing that he was in a boat Nahma was filled -with a wild hope, and when he was transferred from it to the deck of a -waiting ship this hope was confirmed. For some reason utterly beyond -his comprehension he had once more been kidnapped, but only to be -placed in the very position he had longed to attain. - -The ways of the white man were past understanding. Why had he been -brought by force from his own country? and why should an equal amount -of anxiety now be shown, and even a greater amount of force be used, -to carry him back to it? He could not imagine, nor did he care. It was -enough that the second step of his homeward journey had been taken for -him and that the object he had so ardently desired was accomplished. - -Nahma would gladly have remained on deck and attempted to make himself -useful without a thought of escaping or of doing harm to those who had -unwittingly so aided his plans. But this was not permitted, and he was -bundled below with the poor wretches who had been ruthlessly torn from -their homes to be taken as bondsmen to the Virginia plantations. - -So great was the demand for labor in that colony that criminals were -sent there to work out their sentences and debtors to labor until their -indebtedness was discharged. In fact, all of whom society wished to -rid itself were shipped across the ocean. Men anxious to try their -fortunes in the New World but too poor to pay their passage went out -under contract, to serve any master who would purchase their time until -they had made good the money thus advanced. But even these sources -of supply were not sufficient to satisfy the demand for laborers, -and unscrupulous shipmasters found great profit in gathering up -unsuspecting citizens by means of press-gangs sent ashore on the eve of -departure, getting them on board, and sailing at once for the distant -scene of their enforced servitude. - -Thus Nahma now found himself in a motley company of mechanics, sailors, -small tradesmen, 'prentice lads, and others, all being carried away -against their will and without the knowledge of their friends. -Some had left dependent families unprovided for, while others were -parted from sweethearts or newly married wives. To us of to-day all -this sounds incredible; but the age of "good Queen Bess" was an age -of cruelty, when even the best thinking persons only shrugged their -shoulders on hearing of such things, and thanked their stars that they -were not in similar plight. - -Some of the group now surrounding Nahma in the small space allotted to -them, which was dimly lighted by a vilely smoking lamp, were groaning, -some weeping, others were bemoaning their hard fate, and all were as -wretchedly unhappy as it is possible for mortals to be. That is, all -except our young Indian, who was overjoyed at finding himself on a ship -that he believed would carry him back to his own country and people. - -The kidnapped men were kept below for several days, or until land was -out of sight and the ship was ploughing her slow way across the Bay of -Biscay; but after that they were allowed on deck from sunrise until -dark. As Nahma, buoyed by hope and eager anticipation, was the only one -among them who was not seasick, he was compelled to act as steward -of their mess. At first his duties in this capacity were light and he -performed them willingly, but later, when his companions had gained -their sea-legs, they forced all sorts of disagreeable tasks upon him, -and treated him with such cruelty that his hatred of white men was -increased a hundred-fold. - -They were much puzzled over his nationality, which he never revealed, -though often questioned concerning it. Most of them declared that he -was a gypsy, while others insisted that he was of negro blood and -called him "Guinea." The captain of the ship while strongly suspecting -him to be an American would not admit it, but spoke of him as a "Jack -Spaniard." - -So slow was the weary voyage that it was two months to a day before -the westerly winds against which they were beating brought to Nahma's -sensitive nostrils the first scent of land. That evening he hid himself -on deck so that he might sniff the air all night, and at daybreak he -was rewarded by the sight of land lying cloud-like on the western -horizon. - -During that day he was so inattentive to his enforced duties as -to win many a blow and kick from his brutal masters. Although the -young Indian's blood boiled with rage, he did not attempt to resent -these things, but submitted to them with an assumed meekness that -ill-expressed his feelings. He felt that he could afford to abide his -time, for was he not almost within reach of his own people? At the same -time deep down in his heart he vowed a bitter vengeance against those -who thus degraded him, if ever the opportunity should come. And it came -sooner than he expected, though not through his own people, as he had -hoped. - -Before the features of the landfall became recognizable the wind hauled -to the eastward and the weather thickened, with every indication of a -storm. Thus the skipper was greatly relieved shortly before night to -find his ship running into a broad bay between two distant headlands -that he believed to be the capes of Virginia, though in reality they -were those of Delaware. Without attempting to discover the mouth of the -James, he sought only a lee under which the night might be passed in -safety. - -When this was found and the ship was snugly anchored for the first time -since leaving Bristol, not only the captain but his entire company -began a carouse to celebrate this successful termination of their -perilous voyage. Liquor flowed freely in the cabin, and was served -forward in such generous measure that a liberal portion even found its -way to the wretched bondmen who expected shortly to be sold into years -of servitude. Thus by midnight nearly every man on board was helplessly -drunk, and most of them were asleep. - -Up to this hour the storm had steadily increased in violence, and the -ship, though still safe, was surging heavily at her cables. At the -same time but a single figure was in motion on her decks, and he was -creeping forward as stealthily as though fearful of being discovered. -Gaining the bow undetected, he bent for a minute over one of the -straining cables, and when he arose two of its hempen strands had been -severed. Then he stepped quickly to the other, drew his keen blade -across it once, twice, three times, and with the last stroke it parted. -The one first cut gave way almost at the same moment, and the freed -ship started up the bay like a restive steed just given a loose rein. - -With his long-meditated design thus successfully accomplished, Nahma -darted back to his place of hiding and awaited developments. He had -long since discovered that he was destined to be sold into slavery -among those white men who had settled far to the southward of his own -country. Tales of their injustice and cruelty towards the natives -had reached Montaup even before he left there, and had filled his -boyish heart with a fierce indignation. Now he was determined not -to fall alive into their hands, and believed that on this night or -never he must effect an escape. He could not swim to shore because of -the distance and the heavy seas. All the ship's boats were inboard -and securely lashed, so that he could not make off in one of them. -Consequently his only feasible plan seemed to be to let the ship -herself drift until she fetched up on some beach, from which he might -gain the safe cover of the woods. He had never experienced a shipwreck -and knew nothing of its terrors. Even if he had he would not have -hesitated to carry out his desperate plan. - -The captain of the drifting ship, too hard-headed to be overcome by any -amount of liquor, was the first to become aware that her cables had -parted. He stumbled on deck, bawling out orders that were mingled with -strange oaths, and, gaining the wheel, put his vessel's head before the -wind that she might scud without danger of being thrown on her beam -ends. Then he bellowed for assistance, but it came tardily, and was of -slight avail. There was but one spare anchor, and when finally it was -broken out, bent on, and got overboard, the ship was so far in the open -that it could not hold. - -So the helpless vessel drifted for several hours, and shortly before -daybreak struck with such force that all of her masts went by the -board. Then ensued a period of horrible crashing, grinding, and -pounding, with which were mingled the shrieks of drowning men. Some of -the strongest swimmers reached the shore, bruised and breathless but -still alive, and foremost among them was the almost naked form of him -who had caused the disaster. - -Battered and beaten by roaring breakers, weak and nearly perished with -cold, Nahma was at the same time upheld by such a spirit of exultation -as he had never before known. He was once more free and once more lying -on the beloved soil of his native land. No sooner had he regained his -breath after being flung on the beach than he struggled to his feet -and staggered to the safe shelter of a forest that grew almost to the -water's edge. He did not look back nor give a thought to what was -taking place behind him. The white men who would have sold him into -slavery might care for themselves, as might those who had so recently -degraded him by their blows and curses. - -An hour later our young Indian was seated by a camp-fire of the -Saganaga or Delawares, and telling them in sign language, supplemented -by the few words they had in common, of the wonderful treasure that the -sea had brought to their very doors. - -They, recognizing the splendid belt of wampum that he wore, listened -to him with closest attention; and when he had finished, all the -able-bodied men of the village hastened to the scene of the wreck, -leaving Nahma to the kindly hospitality of those who remained behind. - -That night there was no village in the Delaware nation, nor probably on -the entire Atlantic coast, so rich in scalps and plunder as the one in -which the son of Longfeather was an honored guest. - - - - -CHAPTER XXVI - -SASSACUS THE PEQUOT - - -This utter destruction of the ship and of her entire company gave great -satisfaction not only to the young Indian who had suffered so much on -her but to the Saganaga, who were at that time feeling very bitter -against white men on account of the recent stealing of a number of -their tribe to be sold into slavery. It had been the usual case of a -cordial welcome to the strangers from beyond the sea, a brisk trade by -which the confidence of the Indians was won, and then a sudden sailing -with some twenty of them on board. Now, thanks to Nahma, the Lenni -Lenape were revenged and their hearts were lightened of a burden. - -Also they had acquired wealth beyond their wildest dreams, and were -very grateful to him who had thrown it in their way. He did not tell -them that he had been a slave in the white man's country, for he was -determined to keep that humiliating knowledge to himself. So he only -gave them to understand that he too had been kidnapped, and let them -imagine it to have been of recent occurrence. - -They had at once recognized the Belt of Seven Totems that Nahma wore -diagonally across his breast when first appearing among them, though no -member of their tribe had ever before seen it. They, however, knew it -from description; for, among American Indians, tribal totems and the -belts of principal chieftains were as well known as are the banners of -European nations, and the coats of arms of their rulers, among white -men. The Saganaga also knew that none but Longfeather or his eldest son -might wear the Belt of Seven Totems, and so they treated Nahma with -every mark of consideration. - -Finding that he was desirous of returning at once to his own country, -they furnished him with clothing, weapons, and a belt of wampum bearing -the likeness of a serpent, which he was to deliver to the Peacemaker as -a badge of friendship. They also provided an escort of young warriors, -who would guide him to the country of the Pavonias. These people, who -were a branch of the Saganaga, occupied the territory lying on the -south side of the Shatemuc at the point where it flows into the sea, -and they willingly furnished Nahma with a canoe in which to continue -his journey. - -Launching this craft on the waters of the narrow, tide-swept channel -afterwards known as the Kill von Kull, and receiving from his friends a -goodly store of parched corn, our traveller set forth alone on the last -stage of his homeward journey. - -On leaving the Kill he crossed New York Bay, undotted by a single sail, -passed the densely wooded island that was to be known as "Governor's," -and entered the East River. Here he came upon a scene of enchanting -beauty. On his right stretched the level salt marshes and wooded plains -of Long Island. On the other hand lay rock-ribbed Manhattan, rugged -with hills and valleys, among which sparkled many crystal springs and -rippling brooks. It was covered from end to end and from water's edge -to water's edge with groves of stately forest-trees interspersed -with grassy glades in which fed herds of deer. Over all was flung the -exquisite veil of a May verdure, while the air was heavy with the scent -of blossoms and filled with the song of mating birds. On the river's -edge brown rocks were fringed with fantastic sea-growths that waved in -the swift tide like banners streaming in a breeze. - -Brooding ducks and wading heron peopled every placid cove, fish leaped -from the clear waters, and white-plumed gulls flecked the blue sky. The -beauty and peace of nature reigned undisturbed over all; for, as yet, -no Old World keel had cleaved those waters, and the site of what was -destined to become the greatest city of the earth was still untainted -by the blight of civilization. Nor did Nahma see a human being on his -whole journey from bay to sound. In the place destined to hold millions -of his kind he was alone. - -Skirting the northern shore of Long Island Sound, the solitary voyager, -always taking pains to avoid observation, passed the country of the -Mohicans and entered upon that of the Pequots. During the four days -thus occupied he had not held communication with any man, having -shunned alike the infrequent villages of bark huts and the camp-fires -of fishermen or shell gatherers, as well as their canoes. He did not -wish to be delayed or recognized before reaching the country of his own -people. Consequently he hesitated for a moment when, on the fourth day -of his journey, he discovered two figures in a canoe making signals of -distress. - -They were midway between an island lying several miles off shore -and the mainland, and their canoe was so low in the water that it -seemed about to sink. One of the figures was that of a man, who was -paddling with desperate energy, while the other, evidently a woman, was -furiously bailing water from the sinking craft. Only for a moment did -Nahma hesitate, and then he headed with all speed in that direction. - -The water-logged canoe sank before he reached it; but, within a few -minutes, he had rescued the survivors, and they were safely bestowed in -his own craft. With this accomplished, he started towards the land that -had been their objective-point when, as he afterwards learned, their -canoe had been pierced and ripped open by a sword-fish. Whether this -had been done with malice, playfully, or by accident they could not -tell; but it had so endangered their lives that they would, almost of a -certainty, have drowned had not the stranger come to their rescue. - -Not a word was spoken by any one of the three until the canoe had -nearly gained the land. Then the rescued man, who, though young, was of -commanding aspect, turned from his paddling in the bow and said,-- - -"Thou hast saved us from death and I will not forget it. I am Sassacus, -chief of the Pequots." - -Nahma's heart leaped within him. The Pequots formed one of the tribes -acknowledging the authority of his father, and this youth was his -own cousin. He was about to make reply, when the other continued: "I -perceive thou art a stranger, and if thy business be not too pressing, -my lodge would be honored to shelter thee as a guest." - -"Gladly would I tarry," was the reply, "but I may not, for I bear a -belt from the Saganaga to Longfeather the Peacemaker, that must be -promptly delivered. The name by which I am known is Massasoit." - -The Pequot chieftain turned and gazed keenly at the speaker. "Have not -the Lenni Lenape learned that Longfeather has gone the great journey?" -he asked. - -"Dead! Longfeather dead, and I not with him at the end!" cried Nahma, -shocked by the suddenness of this news into an unpremeditated betrayal -of feeling. "When did he die, and how? Was he killed in battle?" - -"He went to the place of Okis when the willow leaves were the size -of mouse-ears, and he was killed by the pale-faces who come from the -sea with death and destruction in their hands," answered the young -chieftain, bitterly. - -"Killed by the white man!" gasped Nahma, his face growing black and the -cords of his neck swelling with rage. "Then by his blood I swear----" - -"Wait," commanded Sassacus. "Not directly did the men from the sea -take his life, nor was his blood shed. With the falling of leaves one -of their winged canoes came to land near Montaup. From it were set -on shore two men more nearly dead than living. Then the great canoe -departed, leaving them to die. The dwellers of that country took pity -on them and cared for them; but they died, and in a short time all -who had gone near them were also dead. The plague spread from the -Pokanokets to the Nausets, the Nipmucks, the Naticks, the Abenakis, and -may still be spreading in the land of cold, though on this side it was -stayed by the coming of warm weather, and thy---- Longfeather was the -last to die of it." - -For a few moments Nahma sat silent. Then, lifting his face, on which -were unconcealed traces of a mighty grief, he said, "I will go with -thee, Sassacus." - -"It is well," replied the other, and no further word was spoken between -them until after a landing was made. Even then the subject that had so -greatly affected the new-comer was not again mentioned until after he -had been taken to the lodge of the young chieftain and refreshed. This -having been done, the guest requested that his host would walk apart -with him, and when they were by themselves he said,-- - -"Thy news of the Peacemaker hath so confused my plans that I am at a -loss how to proceed and would learn further from thee. First I would -know who exercises authority in place of the great Wampanoag? Left he a -son to rule in his stead?" - -Sassacus looked curiously at his guest as he answered,-- - -"Longfeather had a son who should take his place, but he disappeared -many moons ago." - -"How?" - -"No man knows for a certainty. Some say that he joined the Iroquois, -and others that he was taken prisoner by the Hurons of the cold land. -In that case there is small chance of his being now alive." - -"Who, then, wears the Belt of Seven Totems?" - -"No one wears it," replied the other, gravely, "for it also disappeared -at the same time. Miantinomo the Narragansett claims the place and -authority of Longfeather in the name of Canonicus, his father, and is -even now at Montaup." - -"Miantinomo!" exclaimed Nahma, bitterly. "By what right does he make -such a claim?" - -"By the right of a strong arm," replied the other. - -"Is he loved and respected as was Longfeather?" - -"No; he is hated by many and feared by all." - -"Why, then, was he allowed to assume authority?" - -"Because there was none other to dispute him." - -"If one should come----?" began Nahma, hesitatingly. - -"If one should come wearing the Belt of Seven Totems, or bearing other -proof that he is the son of Longfeather," said Sassacus quickly, and -with a meaning glance at his companion, "then would he find many to -support his claim." - -For a full minute Nahma hesitated, and the young men gazed steadfastly -at each other. Then Nahma slowly thrust a hand within his buckskin -shirt, and, drawing forth the Belt of Seven Totems, displayed it to his -companion. - -"Here is the Peacemaker's badge of authority," he said, "and here also -is he who should succeed him, for I am Nahma, son of Longfeather." - -"I have known it, my brother," replied Sassacus, "since the moment I -saw thy face on hearing news of thy father's death, but I would not -speak till thou hadst spoken. Now, however, I gladly acknowledge thee -as my sachem, and will at once make public announcement of thy coming." - -"Not so," objected Nahma. "For the present, and until I can meet -Miantinomo face to face, I must be Massasoit of the Lenni Lenape. If, -however, my brother will go to Montaup with a following of his young -men, I will gladly travel in his company." - - - - -CHAPTER XXVII - -A ROYAL HOME-COMING - - -By murder, treachery, fraud, and force Miantinomo the Narragansett -had finally attained the position upon which he had so long cast -envious eyes. At the death of Longfeather he had caused himself to -be proclaimed Peacemaker, or ruler of the confederated New England -tribes, in the name of his adopted father, who was now too old to take -an active part in affairs of this kind. The various stories concerning -Nahma, circulated from time to time, had not disturbed him, for did he -not know that his rival was dead? Nor had he any fear that the Belt -of Seven Totems would ever again be seen in those parts, since he had -given it to a white trader in exchange for a hatchet, and it had been -carried to that mysterious place beyond the sea from which nothing ever -returned. - -He had also learned with satisfaction of Sacandaga's death, for that -chieftain was the only red man who had ever seen the belt in his -possession. With all traces of his own treacherous dealings thus -wiped out, the ambitious young man had no hesitation in proclaiming -Canonicus, his father, to be Longfeather's successor by virtue of his -position as head of the strongest tribe in the confederation. - -Although Miantinomo was generally disliked, no person felt strong -enough to dispute this claim, and so he was sullenly accepted as -Lawgiver of the tribes. In this capacity he hastened to take possession -of Montaup, which had become the recognized seat of government. - -There he at once proceeded to belie his assumed character of Peacemaker -by making preparations on a large scale for invading the country of -the Iroquois. He had never forgiven them for refusing to treat with -him simply as a Narragansett, and now that he was in a position to -command a war-party equal to any they could put in the field, he -believed the time for humiliating them had come. He sent a runner to -the Hurons urging them to attack the Iroquois from the north about the -time that he proposed to cross the Shatemuc, and he imagined that -the combination thus formed would prove overpowering. He also hoped -that all this warlike activity would divert the thoughts of those who -were displeased with his usurpation of authority, and he knew that a -successful war would firmly establish his position. - -So Miantinomo had sent messengers to every tribe and clan of the New -England Confederacy bidding their warriors assemble at Montaup, and -already were a great number thus gathered. Among others Sassacus had -received a summons to this effect, but the fiery Pequot had determined -to disobey it and risk the consequences. Now, however, the coming of -Nahma had so changed the aspect of affairs that he gladly accepted the -invitation to present himself at Montaup accompanied by a strong body -of picked warriors. - -Miantinomo, who had feared that Sassacus more than any other might -rebel against his self-assumed authority, received him with effusive -hospitality. - -"Now do I know," he said, "that my undertaking against the arrogant -Iroquois will succeed, since they have no warriors to equal the -Pequots in bravery." - -"It is good that you esteem my young men so highly," replied Sassacus, -"and it is certain that they will do what may be to establish firmly -the power of the Peacemaker. I am also accompanied to Montaup by one -who will doubtless prove more welcome than all the others. He is a -medicine-man of the Saganaga, who brings to the Peacemaker a belt of -friendship from his people." - -"Say you so!" exclaimed Miantinomo, his dark face lighting with -pleasure, for an alliance with the Lenni Lenape of the south as well as -one with the Hurons of the north would render him invincible. "Where is -he? Why has he not already been brought to the lodge of council?" - -"He is an old man and weary, who secludes himself from the common gaze -in a lodge of skins that was pitched for him as soon as the canoes came -to land," replied Sassacus. "He desires not to make his message public, -since it is for your ears alone. For this reason he requests that a -new medicine-lodge be erected in which he may receive you in private -and with ceremonies befitting so important an occasion." - -"An old man say you?" inquired Miantinomo, doubtfully. - -"He has every appearance of extreme age and decrepitude." - -"Have you seen the belt that he bears?" - -"I have seen it, and know it to be a serpent-belt of the Saganaga. He -hopes also to take one from you, that his people may know his mission -to have been truly performed. If his terms be not granted, then with -his belt will he depart to the land of the Iroquois." - -"Without doubt I will grant all that he asks," replied Miantinomo, -hastily, "for a friendship with the Saganaga may not be thrown away. -At once shall a medicine-lodge be built, and when next the shadows are -shortest then will I meet him." - -"If it is your pleasure I will see to the building of the lodge," said -Sassacus. - -"It is my pleasure," answered the other, and with this the interview -ended. - -By noon of the following day the medicine-lodge, a simple affair of -poles and bark, stood finished on the edge of a cleared space that -formed the public gathering-place of Montaup. It was a mere shell bare -of all furnishings, as was noted by the many curious persons who peeped -in at its open doorway. The news that something of absorbing interest -was to take place within it had attracted a large assemblage to its -vicinity, where they waited with eager curiosity. - -At the same time there was but little mingling of those belonging to -the several tribes represented. The Narragansetts, with Miantinomo -seated in front of them, were grouped by themselves close to the lodge -but a little to one side. Although they outnumbered any of the visiting -delegations, they formed but a fraction of the whole gathering. - -Opposite to them and equally near the lodge stood the Pequots with the -plumed head of Sassacus towering above them, and beside him stood our -old acquaintance, Samoset. - -The Wampanoags were there in full force supported by a large delegation -of their near relatives, the Pokanokets. Besides these were -representatives of every New England tribe that had acknowledged the -authority of Longfeather. All were warriors, armed as for battle, and -headed by their most experienced chiefs. - -About half an hour before the sun attained his meridian a distant -chanting of voices, accompanied by the measured beating of -medicine-drums, announced the opening of the ceremonies, and a buzz of -expectation swept over the great assembly. - -Then appeared a procession of medicine-men clad in fantastic garb -calculated to inspire those who beheld it with awe. Most prominent -among them was an old man enveloped in a long robe of costly furs. He -was so feeble and bent with age that he leaned heavily upon a stick and -was also supported by two attendants. Directly in front of him walked a -boy, very proud of his honorable position, and bearing in outstretched -hands the wampum serpent-belt of the Saganaga so displayed that all -might see it. - -The procession halted before the lodge, while its members engaged in -a medicine-dance, circling with furious gestures and wild cries about -the central figure of the old man. Precisely at the hour of noon the -dancing came to an abrupt end, and the old medicine-man, taking from -the boy who had borne it the belt of the Saganaga, entered the empty -lodge alone. - -For a few minutes his voice was heard in the feeble chanting of an -incantation, and then it invited the presence of the Peacemaker. Upon -this Miantinomo stepped forth without hesitation and entered the lodge, -vanishing from sight beyond its heavy curtain of double deer-skins. -The light of the interior was so dim that for a moment he could see -nothing; then he made out the form of its solitary occupant standing -before him, and holding the belt that he believed was to confirm him -in his assumed position. The old man, leaning on his stick, was still -enveloped in the long robe that covered him from head to foot. - -Gazing steadfastly at Miantinomo, he said, sternly,-- - -"Why dost thou come here? I summoned Longfeather the Peacemaker." - -"He is dead," replied the other, "and I----" - -"Then should his son Nahma have come in his place," interrupted the old -man. - -"He, too, is dead," said Miantinomo; "that is," he added, hastily, "he -is dead to this people, for he is a traitor and dwells in the lodges of -their enemies." - -"Thou, then, art authorized to fill his place?" - -"I am so authorized by Canonicus, my father, and will seek to wipe out -the shame cast upon the name of Longfeather by his unworthy son." - -"Why, then, dost thou not wear the Peacemaker's badge of authority, the -great Belt of Seven Totems?" - -"Because it was stolen and carried away by Nahma the renegade." - -"Now do I know that thou liest!" exclaimed the old man with an energy -of voice as startling as it was unexpected. "Thou knowest, better than -any other, that the son of Longfeather was foully murdered while he -slept on the farther bank of the Shatemuc. Thou knowest that his body, -stripped of its badge of authority, was flung into the river. Thou -knowest that the Belt of Seven Totems, first used to blind the eyes of -Sacandaga, was afterwards sold to a white-faced trader that it might -disappear forever beyond the salt waters. Thou knowest who first put -in circulation the false tale that the son of Longfeather was a traitor -and a renegade. Thou knowest, and I know, for such things may not be -hid from the Okis. Also will I prove to thee that the dead may live, -and that evil designs may come to naught even when they seem most -likely to succeed. Look, then, and tremble, thou dog of a murderer." - -[Illustration: "LOOK, THEN, AND TREMBLE, THOU DOG OF A MURDERER"] - -With these words the dimly outlined form of the old man straightened -into erectness, his stick fell to the ground, he flung back his -enveloping robe, and at the same moment a slab of bark dropped from the -roof of the lodge, allowing a flood of noonday sunlight to stream on -the place where he stood. - -For an instant Miantinomo stared dumbly at the figure, young, tall, and -handsome, richly clad and wearing across its breast the Peacemaker's -Belt of Seven Totems, that gazed sternly at him with accusing eyes. -Then, with a great cry of terror, he rushed from the lodge and fled -like one who is pursued by a deadly vengeance in the direction of the -nearest forest. - -As the startled assemblage, gathered to witness his crowning triumph, -gazed after the flying figure in bewilderment, their attention was -further attracted, and they were thrilled by a shout of joyful amaze. -Instantly all eyes were again turned towards the lodge, where in place -of an old medicine-man stood a young chieftain, as noble a specimen of -his race as ever trod American soil. Depending from one shoulder was -the long-lost Belt of Seven Totems and from the other a serpent-belt of -the Saganaga. At his feet knelt Samoset, crying out that it was indeed -his brother and his master, Nahma, the son of Longfeather. - -"I am the son of Longfeather, and I was Nahma," said the young man, so -distinctly that all might hear. "But now and henceforth am I Massasoit -the Peacemaker." - -Upon this the whole assemblage, led by Sassacus and his loyal Pequots, -broke into a joyous tumult of welcome and crowded about the youth -who, so long lost to them, had been thus marvellously restored to -his rightful position. Only the Narragansetts took advantage of the -glad confusion to steal away unnoticed and follow the trail of their -dishonored leader. - - - - -CHAPTER XXVIII - -IN THE COUNCIL-LODGE - - -Massasoit could not relate the whole story of his adventurous -wanderings, since no Indian known to have been a slave might afterwards -be accepted as a leader among his people. Consequently he omitted -all reference to his unhappy experiences in England. Nor did he ever -mention that he had crossed the great salt waters; but he told of -his adventures among the Iroquois, as a captive to the Hurons, while -in Quebec, and on a ship that was to have carried him into slavery -among the Yengeese of the south. He described the destruction of that -ill-fated craft, together with the loss of her company, his own welcome -at the hands of the Saganaga, and his homeward journey, to all of which -the assemblage listened with breathless attention. In conclusion, the -young chieftain said,-- - -"I have told all there is to tell. When I left you Longfeather ruled -this land. He has gone from you never to return. I am his son, and it -was his wish that I should be Peacemaker in his place. If that be also -your desire, or if it be not, now is the time to speak. Will you have -Massasoit for your sagamore or another?" - -Standing very straight and gazing proudly about him, the young man -awaited an answer, and it was promptly given. First came Sassacus, -saying,-- - -"The Pequots accept Massasoit as their Peacemaker and will listen to -his words." - -After him in grave procession came the chiefs to tender their -allegiance; and a few days later the venerable Canonicus came also, for -Massasoit had not told that Miantinomo had attempted to murder him, and -so the Narragansetts were not yet outcast from the federation. - -Thus did Massasoit occupy his father's place in the great lodge of -council, while his authority was acknowledged from the Shatemuc to the -sea, and from the country of the Mohicans to that of the Hurons, who -dwelt near the great river of the north. - -With his position thus established, the young sachem, leaving Sassacus -to hold Montaup during his absence, set forth on an expedition of the -utmost importance both to himself and to his people. It had three -objects: first, to find his mother, who had fled from Miantinomo; -second, to restore the peaceful relations with the Iroquois that had -been threatened by the usurper; and last, but by no means least, to -visit the lodge of Kaweras. - -As a following worthy of his rank he took with him one hundred -warriors, and with these he pressed forward over the trail that he -had followed as a youth three years earlier. At the village of Peace, -on the river of sweet waters, he found Miantomet, and raised her -in a moment from the dejection of a childless fugitive to a proud -motherhood, with the son, whom she had so long mourned as dead, once -more restored to her. - -But only for a short time might these two enjoy their reunion, for -Massasoit found that whole section of country alarmed over an invasion -of Hurons, who were said to be coming down the valley of the Shatemuc -in formidable numbers. So he pushed on, hoping to form a junction with -the Iroquois before the common enemy should arrive. - -The eastern Iroquois or Maquas were hard beset. Two powerful -expeditions had descended at once upon the country of the Five Nations. -One, under leadership of our old acquaintance Champlain, had crossed -Lake Ontario, penetrated deep into the territory of the Oneidas, and -was supposed to be advancing upon the Maquas from the west. Another -expedition, accompanied by three white men, was coming from the north -by way of the Shatemuc, and already were fugitives flying before -them to the palisaded villages, bringing sad tales of rapine and -destruction. As though this state of affairs were not bad enough, it -was reported that the New England tribes, led by Miantinomo, were -advancing from the east. Thus it seemed as though the Maquas were -doomed to destruction, and a feeling of despair had seized upon the -warriors gathered for the defence of their three palisaded strongholds. - -One night, during this unhappy condition of suspense, a group of -chief men were seated about a small fire in the council-house of -the easternmost village, gloomily discussing the situation. News had -come that the enemy was close at hand, and that the village would be -assaulted by overwhelming numbers on the morrow. So oppressed were -the councillors by the hopelessness of their situation that for some -time they sat in silence, and one among them appeared to be dozing, as -though exhausted. - -Suddenly this one, who was our old friend Kaweras, awoke, uttering an -exclamation of pleasure, and looked about him with smiling cheerfulness. - -"What pleases my brother?" asked he who sat nearest. "Has he seen a -vision of the spirit land to which all of us will go before the setting -of another sun?" - -"No," replied Kaweras. "It is not yet time for visions of the spirit -land." - -"How so, when even the youngest warrior knows that we are in no -condition to withstand an attack of the Hurons and of those armed with -thunder-sticks who accompany them?" - -"It is because he who is to deliver us even now approaches, and in a -vision have I seen him." - -"Comes he from the west, and is he the Wild-Cat of the Oneidas?" - -"No. He is from the east, and more powerful than the Wild-Cat or any -other single chieftain of the Iroquois. He is not of us, but he has -already fought with us. I have known him, but until now I have not -known him. Whence he comes or how he has passed our young men I know -not, but even now he is at hand. Behold, he is here!" - -The old man had risen to his feet in his excitement, and now stood -staring eagerly at the skin-hung entrance. - -As he finished speaking the curtain was drawn aside and a young -warrior stepped within the lodge. He advanced to where the firelight -fell full upon his face, and then stood motionless as though awaiting -recognition. Nor was it long in coming, for, after a moment of silence, -Kaweras stepped forward with extended hand, uttering the single word, -"Massasoit." - -"Yes, my father, it is Massasoit," was the reply; but the old man -hardly noticed what was said, for his eye had fallen on a belt worn by -the new-comer, and he was studying its devices with an expression of -amazement. Finally he said, in a low tone,-- - -"It is the Belt of Seven Totems, the great colier of the Peacemaker." - -"And I," responded Massasoit, "am the Peacemaker, since I was Nahma, -son of Longfeather. For thy exceeding kindness to me in other days am I -now come with a war-party to help the people of Sacandaga in their time -of trouble." - -"How came he inside our walls?" asked one of the chiefs, suspiciously. - -"That will I tell at another time," replied Massasoit. "Now there are -things of more importance to be considered." - -The young man did not care to acknowledge that Aeana had given him -admittance, but so it was. He had left his warriors in concealment at -some distance from the village while he went alone to discover the -exact state of affairs. - -That same afternoon, before warning of the near approach of the Hurons -had been given, he had seen several women go to a small stream for -water, and recognized Aeana among them. After a while he managed to -toss a small packet so that it fell at her feet. Glancing about with a -startled air, the girl picked it up, and found in it the embroidered -tinder-bag that she had concealed in her sister's gift to Massasoit -so long ago that she had almost forgotten the incident. As she gazed -at the token, hardly knowing whether to be frightened or pleased, the -low call of a wood-dove attracted her attention to a nearby thicket. -Hesitatingly she moved close enough to hear the whispered words, "Be -not afraid. I am here as a friend to help the Maquas against their -enemies; but first I would see Kaweras. At moon-setting will I come -alone to the gate, and I rely upon thee to give me admittance." - -Outwardly calm, but with a wildly fluttering heart, Aeana rejoined -her companions without having been for an instant out of their sight, -and returned with them to the village. There she debated long with -herself as to whether she should tell her father or Otshata of what -had happened; but, until the time of moon-setting, she had not found -courage to do so. She had not meant to admit the young warrior without -their knowledge, especially as news had come, within an hour, of the -near approach of the Hurons; but a will stronger than her own seemed -to compel her, and finally she did as Massasoit desired. Then, sadly -frightened, she whispered, "In the council-house is Kaweras," and fled -away into the darkness, leaving the young man to discover his bearings -as best he might. - -Having at length gained the council-lodge and being received as -already stated, Massasoit was compelled to answer many questions -before securing the confidence of all the chiefs. Little by little, -however, it was acquired. Kaweras told what he knew of him. The belt -that he wore was a potent influence; and finally one, who had been -with Sacandaga at the time of his death, recognized the young man as -he who had risked his own life to save that of the Iroquois chieftain. -After that they listened with closest attention to all he had to say. -Thus, before he left them, he had outlined a plan of operations for -the morrow, or whenever the Hurons should make an attack, that they -promised to follow. - -Massasoit also instructed the Iroquois as to the nature of fire-arms, -which they had heretofore regarded with all the terror of ignorance. He -described the manner in which the thunder-sticks must be loaded before -becoming effective as weapons, and assured his hearers that, after -being discharged, they were for a long time no more dangerous than so -many wooden billets. Having thus restored a cheerful confidence to the -council, the young chieftain departed and made his way to where his own -warriors anxiously awaited him. - -Immediately upon rejoining these, and without pausing to rest, he led -them on a long detour, so that, before daylight, they had gained a -position in the rear of the Hurons, by whom the presence of the young -Peacemaker was as yet unsuspected. - -With the rising of the sun hundreds of dark forms might have been seen -gliding stealthily from tree to tree in the direction of the Maqua -village. At a short interval behind the last of these came another -group moving in the same direction, but with even greater caution. -Foremost among them was Massasoit, leading his people in an enterprise -that would make or mar his own reputation for all future time. - -Suddenly the morning stillness of the forest was rudely broken by the -roar of three muskets fired in quick succession, and the battle was -begun. - - - - -CHAPTER XXIX - -WINNING A BATTLE, A WIFE, AND A FRIEND - - -Upon the advice of Massasoit, the Iroquois had set up dummies to draw -the musket-fire of the enemy; also most of their young men had been -placed in ambush outside the walls. These, though few in number as -compared with the advancing host of Hurons, sprang to their feet with -frightful yells and rushed towards the place marked by the smoke of the -now empty muskets. They seemed doomed to certain destruction, and the -Hurons calmly awaited their coming. All at once, and without warning, a -flight of arrows from the rear brought a score of the invaders to the -ground, and at the same moment the woods behind them seemed alive with -yelling foemen. - -For a few minutes the bewildered Hurons, thus entrapped, fought -desperately. Then the three white men, who were objects of Massasoit's -especial vengeance, were killed while hurriedly endeavoring to reload -their muskets. As they fell their savage allies, who had until now -regarded them as invincible, broke into a panic-stricken flight, each -man endeavoring only to save himself. After them raced Massasoit and -his warriors, together with the jubilant Iroquois, and many and fierce -were the hand-to-hand conflicts that took place in the dim forest -coverts that day. At its close, when the wearied but exultant victors -gathered once more at the wildly rejoicing village, their trophies of -scalps and prisoners outnumbered their combined forces. - -The following week was devoted to the wildest forms of savage -festivity, and the rejoicings were redoubled near its close by the -arrival of a runner from the west, bringing the great news that the -other invading force under Champlain had been defeated and driven back -by the Onondagas and Oneidas. - -In all this time of feasting Massasoit was the hero and central figure. -Not only had he saved the Maqua village and probably the whole tribe -from destruction, but, on that day of fighting, he had proved himself -the foremost warrior of his people and had brought in more Huron -scalps than any other. - -He found no difficulty in forming a compact with the Iroquois on behalf -of his own people, by which both were bound not to cross the Shatemuc -except for friendly visits. Thus our young chieftain would have been -supremely happy but for one thing, and that was his treatment at the -hands of Aeana. - -This girl, who now seemed the most beautiful and desirable of all -earthly creatures, behaved to him in a manner so strange that he could -in no wise account for it. Not only did she refuse to grant him an -interview, but she studiously avoided meeting him, and went no longer -with the other women to the stream for water. Thus he had not been able -to exchange a single word with her, and as the time for his departure -drew near he was in despair. In his distress he sought out Otshata, as -he had done once before, and, pouring out his heart, asked her what he -should do. - -Otshata laughed in his face. "What fools men be!" she said. "Dost thou -not remember, Massasoit, the time when she bade thee fetch water?" - -"Well do I remember." - -"And thou performed the service?" - -"Truly, I did, even as she bade me." - -"And she scorned the offering when it was brought to her?" - -"Even so, and taunted me with the name of 'squaw.'" - -"Remembering that, art thou still at a loss to know why she now refuses -to meet thee?" - -"To my confusion, I am," replied the puzzled youth. - -At this Otshata laughed again long and heartily; but at length she -asked,-- - -"Didst thou ever know a woman to accept friendship with a slave when a -master might be had?" - -Then, still laughing, she ran away, leaving the young man to ponder her -words. - -As a result of this conversation, Massasoit announced that he and his -warriors would depart for their own country on the morrow, and at -daylight of the next morning they had disappeared. That day Aeana, -heavy-hearted and with lagging step, went with the other women -for water. As she bent over the stream an exclamation from one of -her companions caused her to look up and directly into the eyes of -Massasoit, who stood on the opposite bank. - -With a shrill cry of dismay, Aeana turned and fled towards the village; -but, swiftly as she ran, Massasoit overtook her ere she had covered -half the distance. Seizing her in his arms, he picked her up and, -despite her struggles, bore her swiftly away. On the edge of the wood -he paused to utter a far-carrying yell of triumph, and then, still -bearing his precious burden, he disappeared amid the leafy shadows. - -But his defiant challenge was answered, and half a dozen young -Iroquois, all of whom were aspirants for the hand of the arrow-maker's -beautiful daughter, dashed forth in hot pursuit. This race for a bride -was over a forest course something more than a mile in length. At its -farther end was the Shatemuc and a waiting canoe containing a single -occupant. As Massasoit gained this and it was shoved off, the foremost -of his pursuers was so close that he fell into the water in a vain -effort to grasp the elusive craft. - -Beyond the river the Iroquois might not pass by the terms of their -recent treaty, and thus on its farther side, Massasoit felt his prize -to be as secure as though he already had her at Montaup. - -As they stepped out on the land that acknowledged the son of -Longfeather to be its ruler, Aeana regarded the bold youth with eyes -that laughed even through their tears, and said, "I hate you; but if -you had not done it, then should I have despised you forever." - -So Massasoit won his bride, and in far-away Montaup, beside the great -salt waters that bathe the rising sun, no woman led a happier life than -did the daughter of Kaweras. - -After this several years were passed in peaceful content by those -New England tribes owning the rule of Massasoit. With his superior -knowledge of the world he was able to teach them many things that -caused them to prosper as never before. Only was he worried by the -Narragansetts, who, while sullenly admitting his authority, awaited -eagerly an opportunity to renounce and defy it. - -In the mean time Aeana had presented the Peacemaker with two sons, the -younger of whom, named Metacomet, was to become famous in after-years -as King Philip. - -With all his peace and apparent security Massasoit had one ever-present -fear, and it was of the white man. He had a knowledge greater than any -of his people concerning the number and power of these dwellers beyond -the sea, and he dreaded lest they should seek to obtain a foothold in -his country, as they had already done both on the St. Lawrence and the -James. As one measure of precaution against this he issued orders to -every New England tribe that they should hold no intercourse with any -whites attempting to trade on the coast. So determined was he to carry -out this policy that when an unfortunate French trading vessel was -wrecked on a shore of Massachusetts Bay, he caused her to be burned, -and commanded that all survivors of her crew be put to death. - -Holding these views, Massasoit became very angry when it was reported -to him that the Narragansetts, in defiance of his authority, were -actively trading with an English ship that had appeared on their -coast, and he at once determined to make an example that should be -remembered. - -A runner was despatched to his trusted ally Sassacus, whose country -lay beyond that of the Narragansetts, ordering the Pequots to advance -from the west until they should meet Massasoit coming from the opposite -direction. Then, gathering a strong force from the tribes near at hand, -the Peacemaker set forth for the scene of unlawful trading. - -So demoralized were the Narragansetts by the simultaneous appearance of -two powerful war-parties within their borders that they offered only a -slight resistance before fleeing to their palisaded stronghold, where -they anxiously awaited the expected attack. - -In the mean time the captain of the English vessel, which was snugly -anchored in the mouth of a small river, where he had been carrying on a -brisk and most profitable trade with the Indians, was disgusted to have -it suddenly cease. For days a fleet of canoes had surrounded his ship. -Now not one was to be seen, nor could any of the natives be discovered -on shore. His recent great success had been largely due to the fact -that he had on board an English-speaking Indian, through whom all -negotiations had been conducted. When a whole day had passed without -change in the situation the captain consulted with this Indian, and -asked what he supposed had become of the natives. - -"They be fearful to come off since they have learn that you steal red -men for slaves," was the answer. - -"Ho, ho! Is that all? But think you, Squanto, that they have any furs -left?" - -"Me think they keep back many of the best." - -"By the Lord Harry! Then must we go to them, since they are afraid to -come to us. Boat away, there! And, Squanto, you may come too if you -will promise to make no attempt at escape." - -"These be not my people," replied the Indian, evasively. - -"That's so. I picked you up at a great distance from here. But never -mind. If you serve me truly perhaps I will take you back there some -day. Attempt to play me false, though, and I will kill you as I would -a rat. Tumble in, then, and let us hie ashore." - -It was a strong boat's crew and heavily armed that thus made a landing -in search of the trade which no longer came to their ship, and they -followed a plainly marked trail leading from the beach to the place -where had been an Indian village. Now it was deserted and void of life, -though their guide announced that it had been occupied as recently as a -few hours before. - -While the new-comers were prowling about with hopes of discovering -something in the way of plunder, their attention was distracted by a -column of smoke rising in the direction of their boat. They had left -it hauled partially out of the water and in charge of two well-armed -men. Now, hastening back, they were panic-stricken by the discovery -that the boat was in flames. It was also badly crushed, as though it -had been lifted bodily and dropped on a ledge of sharp rocks. Worst of -all, it contained the dead bodies of those who had been left on guard. -The weapons of both men were missing, and they had been scalped but not -otherwise mutilated. - -Taking advantage of the confusion following this discovery, the Indian -guide dove into a nearby thicket and disappeared. A minute later, -while the whites were huddled about their burning boat attempting to -extinguish the flames, a great flight of arrows, that seemed to come -from every direction at once, instantly killed more than half their -number. Then came a rush of yelling savages, and in another minute but -one man was left alive. He was wounded, but his life had been spared by -the express order of Massasoit. - -The Indian guide had been made prisoner, bound, and left to himself; -but now that all was over, the young leader, ordering his warriors to -remain behind, went to him. Stooping, he severed the prisoner's bonds -and assisted him to his feet. Then gazing steadily at him, he cried in -a voice that trembled with emotion,-- - -"Tasquanto, my brother, dost thou not remember Massasoit?" - - - - -CHAPTER XXX - -THE PILGRIMS OF PLYMOUTH - - -Since being separated from Massasoit years before in Plymouth harbor, -Tasquanto, whose name the English had shortened to "Squanto," had known -nothing of the fate of his fellow-captive beyond that he had been sold -as a slave in London. In the mean time he had been received into the -household of Sir Ferdinando Gorges, Governor of Plymouth, who had large -interests in the New World, and had been taught to speak English. Then -he was sent on trading-vessels to act as interpreter between whites and -Indians. In this capacity he had made several voyages to America, but -always so closely guarded that never until now had he been allowed to -set foot on his native shores. - -Tasquanto was so overcome at finding in the great sachem Massasoit, -concerning whom he had heard much, his own long-lost friend that -for a few moments he was speechless with joyful amazement. When he -had succeeded in partially expressing this, he related briefly how -he happened to be in his present situation, and added that the cruel -taskmaster from whom he had just escaped was the same Captain Dermer -who had formerly betrayed them into slavery. - -"I knew it when first I saw him this morning," replied Massasoit, -grimly, "for his evil face has ever been pictured in my heart. For that -reason have I spared his worthless life until I could consult with -thee, my brother, as to how we may best deal with him." - -"Did you, then, know me also?" asked Tasquanto. - -"The moment I set eyes on thee. Those white dogs had been slain an hour -sooner but for thy presence among them and a fear of doing thee harm. -Now, what say you? Shall this man be delivered to the tormentors, or -shall he be killed where he lies? It is certain that his punishment -must be great, for he has earned all that may be given. Also I do not -care that he should recognize me and spread the report that I was once -his slave, for that would shame me in the eyes of my people. Thou, too, -must ever keep secret the matter of my having crossed the salt waters." - -"I will remember," replied Tasquanto. "As for this white man, I would -crop his ears with the same brand of ownership that he has placed upon -many an Indian captured and sold into slavery. Then would I let him -sail away in his own ship as a warning to all other white men. Death he -deserves, since he has treated many of our people to death and worse, -but to him the shame of cropped ears will be even more bitter than -death." - -So favorably was Massasoit impressed with this idea that he ordered it -carried out at once. Thus, half an hour later, the brutal Dermer, who -had done so much to cause the name of Englishman to be hated in the -New World, was set adrift in a canoe, minus both his ears, and allowed -to depart to his own ship. It is recorded in history that he reached -Virginia, where he soon afterwards died from wounds received at the -hands of New England savages. - -Having thus satisfactorily concluded one part of his undertaking, -Massasoit next turned his attention to the rebel Narragansetts. -Moving his entire force against their stronghold, he demanded that all -goods received from the English should be delivered up, and also that -Miantinomo should come to his camp, bringing a chief's belt in token -of submission. Massasoit swore that, in case his demands were refused, -he would not depart from that place until every rebel in the fort was -destroyed. So mild were these terms in comparison with what had been -expected that they were instantly accepted, and a cruel war between -neighbors was averted. - -With peace thus restored, the authority of Massasoit over the great -territory, already named New England by Captain John Smith, was so -firmly established that until the day of his death it was never again -questioned. - -But if one of his two chief causes for anxiety was thus removed, the -other was looming ominously near. Some six months after Tasquanto's -escape from his long captivity a little English ship, buffeted by -winter gales of the North Atlantic, was slowly approaching the American -coast. Although only of one hundred and fifty tons' burden, or about -the size of a small coasting schooner of to-day, she carried one -hundred passengers besides her crew and an immense quantity of freight. - -For three months had her passengers--men, women, and children--been on -board the overcrowded little craft, and they were sick for a sight of -land. Their destination was the mouth of the Shatemuc or Hudson River, -but their first landfall, made under a cold December sky, was the bluff -headland, stretching far out to sea like a beckoning finger, that -Gosnold, some twenty years earlier, had named the Cape of Cods. From -here the ship was headed southward towards her destination, but soon -became involved in a labyrinth of shoals covered with roaring breakers. -Also she was beaten by adverse gales until her weary company hailed -with joy her captain's decision to run back to the safe shelter of Cape -Cod. Here, in what is now the harbor of Provincetown, the sea-worn -strangers disembarked, so profoundly happy at finding themselves once -more on land that the wooded wilderness seemed a paradise. - -They had come to establish homes in the New World, and though -disappointed at not gaining the more southerly latitude for which they -had set out, they now determined to remain where they were, since it -was too late in the season for further explorations. Still, they spent -two weeks in examination of the country close at hand, and finally -selected a site for settlement across the bay enclosed by Cape Cod. -Here was a good harbor, plenty of fresh water, and much land already -cleared of forest growth by its former Indian occupants. - -They named this place "Plymouth" after the last English port from which -they had sailed, and on Christmas day began the work of building houses. - -During that winter half of these stout-hearted settlers died, so that -in the early spring only fifty persons, enfeebled by the sickness from -which but seven had wholly escaped, remained to make good their claim -to the land they had thus seized. - -During all this time the colonists had not encountered any of the -native owners of the soil, though they had caught occasional glimpses -of vanishing forms, and often saw signal-fires or smokes that denoted -the presence of watchful observers. - -In spite of these things they did not hesitate to appropriate Indian -property wherever they found it. Thus, when they discovered hidden -stores of corn and parched acorns, laid by for winter use, they -promptly removed them to Plymouth. Also whenever they ran across an -Indian lodge, they took from it everything that seemed to them of -value. They even robbed Indian graves of their sacred relics, and these -things were reported to Massasoit by his scouts. - -From the first appearance of the _Mayflower_ on the stormy horizon he -had known of all its movements. He had been relieved when it started -southward, and was greatly disturbed by its return to Cape Cod. He -was also much puzzled to account for the doings of its company, since -evidently they were neither traders nor fishermen. Why had they brought -women and children with them? Also why had they in the first place -attempted to sail to the southward, if his country was the place -they were seeking? He finally decided that they must be bound for the -Virginia settlement of white men, and were only waiting until the -winter storms were over before resuming their voyage to the country of -Powhatan. - -This decision eased Massasoit's mind, for, while he was determined that -no whites should settle within his boundaries, he was also averse to -unnecessary bloodshed. So he awaited patiently the departure that he -believed the strangers would make with the coming of warmer weather. -If they did not so depart, he knew that he could wipe them out of -existence as easily as he could crush a worm that came in his path. - -Thus forbearing to disturb them, he waited and watched, receiving -almost daily reports from his scouts, who at all times lurked in the -vicinity of the feeble settlement. He heard with grim satisfaction of -their rapid decrease in numbers, and grew wroth at their violation of -Indian graves and their appropriation of unguarded Indian property. -Still he forbore to molest them, but as spring drew near he sent -Samoset to learn how soon they intended to depart. - -To his dismay this messenger brought back word that the English had no -intention of ever again leaving the place where they had established -themselves. - -"Then must I remind them that I have no desire for their presence," -quoth Massasoit, and at once he sent out runners to gather a large -force of warriors in the vicinity of Plymouth. Accompanied by a -body-guard of sixty men, the sachem himself hastened to the place of -rendezvous and established a camp, from which he sent Tasquanto among -the whites to learn in detail their strength and intentions. - -With his ready command of English and his knowledge of white men's -customs, gained by painful experience, Tasquanto or "Squanto," as he -now called himself, found no difficulty in gaining all the information -he desired from the strangers. He even learned their names and the -relative rank held by their leading men. - -When Tasquanto returned and reported these things, he mentioned one -name that caused Massasoit to start and betray symptoms of great -agitation. - -"Art thou certain that one among them is so called?" he asked. - -"I am certain," replied Tasquanto. - -"Then go quickly and ask that man, as he values his own life and that -of his people, to meet me alone by the big pine that looks down upon -his lodges. I will be there unaccompanied. Stay! Take to him this belt -that it may be to him a token of safe-conduct and true speaking." - -With this Massasoit removed from his own person the great Belt of Seven -Totems and handed it to Tasquanto. He also instructed the latter to -withdraw beyond earshot when he had conducted the white man to the -place of meeting. - -Half an hour later Massasoit, with unpainted face and simply clad, -stood alone at the foot of the great pine, looking down on the group -of poor little huts that sheltered the feeble English remnant. Within -a mile of the place were gathered five hundred warriors awaiting but a -signal from him to utterly destroy the helpless settlement. - -Then to him came an Englishman, young, sturdy, and heavily bearded. -As he approached within a few paces he halted and examined the Indian -curiously, for he had been told that he was to meet a sachem who was -ruler of many tribes. - -On the other hand, Massasoit gazed into the bearded face of the white -man with an eagerness that was almost disconcerting. Then, as though -satisfied with his scrutiny, he extended a hand, exclaiming as he did -so,-- - -"Winslow! My frien' Winslow!" - -For a moment the other hesitated, then his face lighted joyously as he -grasped the proffered hand in both of his, crying,-- - -"Massasoit? They told me the name of the mighty chieftain was -Massasoit, but never did I suspect that he was the friend whom I had -found and lost in London." - -For an hour the two, thus strangely brought together after years of -distant wanderings, held converse with each other while the fate of the -New World hung upon their words. When their conversation was finally -ended, Winslow had promised never to reveal the fact that the proud -sachem had once been bought and sold as a slave in England. He had also -promised that the colony to which he belonged should never commit an -act of aggression against the people of Massasoit, but that his friends -should be their friends and his enemies their enemies. - -On his part, and out of an abounding gratitude for the only friendship -shown him at a time when he stood most in need of friends, Massasoit -agreed that the poor little English settlement should be allowed to -exist, and, moreover, promised to protect it from its enemies to the -full extent of his power. - -Then the two parted, the one to go back to his wondering warriors -and dismiss them to their homes, the other to carry the glad news -into Plymouth that the great Massasoit was ready to make a treaty of -friendly alliance with his English neighbors. - -So on the morrow Governor Carver, accompanied by Winslow, sturdy Myles -Standish, and others of his principal men, met Massasoit. Then, after -much feasting and an exchange of courtesies, they mutually signed a -treaty of friendship that remained unbroken for upward of half a -century from that memorable date. - -Thus was the crumb of bread once cast upon troubled waters by Edward -Winslow returned to him again with a thousand-fold of increase after -many days. - -Thus also did Nahma, son of Longfeather, now become Massasoit, wearer -of the Belt of Seven Totems, make possible and establish forever the -white man's settlement of New England. - - * * * * * * - -N. B. When the good ship _Mayflower_ returned to England from that her -most memorable voyage to the New World she bore in her cargo a packet -of richest furs, together with many specimens of dainty beadwork, -consigned to Lady Betty Effingham, who dwelt near to Bristol, England, -with goodly wishes from her friend and humble servant, Massasoit. - - - - -+-------------------------------------------------+ -|Transcriber's note: | -| | -|Obvious typographic errors have been corrected. | -| | -+-------------------------------------------------+ - - - -***END OF THE PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK THE BELT OF SEVEN TOTEMS*** - - -******* This file should be named 62684.txt or 62684.zip ******* - - -This and all associated files of various formats will be found in: -http://www.gutenberg.org/dirs/6/2/6/8/62684 - - -Updated editions will replace the previous one--the old editions will -be renamed. - -Creating the works from print editions not protected by U.S. copyright -law 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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