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diff --git a/old/65601-0.txt b/old/65601-0.txt deleted file mode 100644 index 85bd0e3..0000000 --- a/old/65601-0.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,8106 +0,0 @@ -The Project Gutenberg eBook of The Trail of Black Hawk, by Paul G. -Tomlinson - -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 -will have to check the laws of the country where you are located before -using this eBook. - -Title: The Trail of Black Hawk - -Author: Paul G. Tomlinson - -Release Date: June 12, 2021 [eBook #65601] - -Language: English - -Character set encoding: UTF-8 - -Produced by: Richard Tonsing, Louise Davies, and the Online Distributed - Proofreading Team at https://www.pgdp.net - -*** START OF THE PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK THE TRAIL OF BLACK HAWK *** - - - - - THE TRAIL OF - BLACK HAWK - - - - - By EVERETT T. TOMLINSON - - - SCOUTING ON THE OLD FRONTIER - - STORIES OF THE AMERICAN REVOLUTION - - SCOUTING WITH MAD ANTHONY - - THE MYSTERIOUS RIFLEMAN - - SCOUTING ON THE BORDER - - THE PURSUIT OF THE APACHE CHIEF - - THE TRAIL OF THE MOHAWK CHIEF - - YOUNG PEOPLE’S HISTORY OF THE AMERICAN REVOLUTION - - PLACES YOUNG AMERICANS WANT TO KNOW - - FIGHTERS YOUNG AMERICANS WANT TO KNOW - - THE STORY OF GENERAL PERSHING - -[Illustration: - - “‘The kind of a horse I’ve always wanted to own’ ... he thought.” - - [PAGE 152] -] - - - - - GREAT INDIAN CHIEFS SERIES - - THE TRAIL OF BLACK HAWK - - - BY - - PAUL G. TOMLINSON - - Author of “To the Land of the Caribou,” “In Camp on Bass Island,” etc. - -[Illustration] - - ILLUSTRATED - - - NEW YORK AND LONDON - D. APPLETON AND COMPANY - - 1924 - - - - - COPYRIGHT, 1915, - BY D. APPLETON AND COMPANY - - Printed in the United States of America - - - - - PREFACE - - -The adventures and experiences of the hardy settlers on the continually -advancing frontier have provided a fascinating but comparatively unknown -chapter in the history of our country. Romance, bitter prejudice, -distorted tales, and traditions more or less trustworthy, have combined -to create a strong interest in the Indians. So much, however, has been -written of a sensational and improbable nature that the result has not -always been desirable. Just as there were “good” Indians and “bad” -Indians, so the stories of Indians have ofttimes created impressions -that were erroneous or even false. - -The appeal of Indian life and of Indian wars, however, is perpetually -strong. Who these early inhabitants of America were, what they did, how -they lived and how they fought their battles, why they were engaged in -conflicts with the early settlers and our troops, are essential parts of -our history. The names of King Philip, Massasoit, Brandt, Tecumseh, -Pontiac, Red Jacket, Black Hawk, Keokuk, Ouray, Sitting Bull and others -are perhaps well known, but just what is behind the names is not so -commonly understood. - -And yet all this is a legitimate part of our history, which every -American, and particularly every young American ought to know and wants -to know. Even if it is impossible for him properly to understand the -vanishing race he ought not to be ignorant of, nor forget, the struggle -of those early days. - -Black Hawk’s War occurred in 1832. Against the encroachments of the -whites and their undeniable injustice, the Indians opposed their own -methods of making war. The extermination of families, the lack of mercy, -even the blood-thirstiness of the redmen were among their customary -methods of making war and were universally recognized as such by their -enemies of their own color. Black Hawk assuredly was a patriot, -courageously fighting the battles of his own people. This story is an -attempt to follow facts and events of that struggle as they occurred. - -The author has followed the suggestions of many librarians and teachers -and has cast his narrative into the form of a story. In the main part -the story is true and the aim of its writer has been to present a -picture of the struggle of the settlers with the Indians, the work of -our army and the daring of Black Hawk and his braves. The justice or -injustice of the conflict will be understood by those who may follow the -fortunes of the courageous chieftain. At all events the young readers -ought to appreciate more fully the value and the cost of the land, the -privileges and the homes they now possess. - -The character of Black Hawk is unique. He was a natural leader, -overcoming opposition in the tribes he led, as well as bravely facing -his foes. - -The events incorporated in this tale are based upon facts. The license -of a storyteller has been freely used, but the basis of the book is -true. The final defeat of Black Hawk, his visit at the capital of the -nation and in some of the largest cites, the impression upon the old -warrior in his receptions by the whites of the East, all are elements in -his life which must be known in order to appreciate correctly the -character of this famous Indian chief. - -To those who are interested the following bibliography may be -suggestive: - - Armstrong, The Sauks and the Black Hawk War, 1887. - Beckwith, H. W., Illinois and Indiana Indians, 1884. - Blanchard, Rufus, History of Illinois. - Carpenter, R. V., The Indian Statue, near Oregon, Illinois. - Chetlain, A. L., The Black Hawk War of 1832. - Davison, Alexander & Stuve, B., Black Hawk War. - Goodrich, S. I., Lives of Celebrated American Indians. - McIntosh, John, Speech of Black Hawk when he surrendered himself to the - agent at Prairie Du Chien. - Moses, John, Black Hawk War. - Parrish, Randall, The Struggle with Black Hawk. - Paterson, J. B., Autobiography of Black Hawk. - Snyder, J. F., The Burial and Resurrection of Black Hawk. - Stevens, F. E., The Black Hawk War, including a Review of Black Hawk’s - Life. - Steward, J. F., Sac and Fox Trail. - Thwaites, R. G., The Black Hawk War. - -If his young readers shall be sufficiently interested in this story of -Black Hawk to follow the struggles by which America was won as they are -recorded in our historical works, the writer will feel that his purpose -in part at least has been accomplished. - - PAUL G. TOMLINSON. - - Elizabeth, New Jersey. - - - - - CONTENTS - - - CHAPTER PAGE - - I. BLACK HAWK TAKES THE TRAIL 1 - - II. PURSUED 13 - - III. A DEVASTATED HOME 24 - - IV. A HIDDEN RETREAT 36 - - V. A NEEDED REST 46 - - VI. A NEW DANGER 58 - - VII. A NARROW ESCAPE 69 - - VIII. AN INDIAN LEGEND 81 - - IX. IN CAMP 92 - - X. ON THE MARCH 104 - - XI. THE FLAG OF TRUCE 118 - - XII. THE ROUT 128 - - XIII. THE WHINNY OF A HORSE 138 - - XIV. THE SWALLOW 150 - - XV. AN INVITATION 163 - - XVI. A SCOUTING PARTY 173 - - XVII. A PERILOUS UNDERTAKING 185 - - XVIII. BETWEEN THE LINES 195 - - XIX. A LIVELY SKIRMISH 206 - - XX. A MIDNIGHT RIDE 216 - - XXI. THE FIGHT ON THE PEKATONIKA 227 - - XXII. APPLE RIVER FORT 239 - - XXIII. ACROSS COUNTRY 251 - - XXIV. KELLOGG’S GROVE 262 - - XXV. ON THE TRAIL 274 - - XXVI. THROUGH THE SWAMPS 285 - - XXVII. WISCONSIN HEIGHTS 297 - - XXVIII. THE TRAIL LEADS WESTWARD 308 - - XXIX. BAD AXE 320 - - XXX. CONCLUSION 333 - - - - - THE TRAIL OF BLACK HAWK - - - - - CHAPTER I - BLACK HAWK TAKES THE TRAIL - - -“Black Hawk is on the trail again.” - -Joseph Hall was the speaker. With his parents, two sisters and a brother -he lived on the American frontier in Illinois. In these days a reference -to that part of the country as “the frontier” would cause a smile to -appear on the faces of those who might hear such a statement, but in the -year 1832, when the scene of this story is laid, Illinois was very far -west. On Indian Creek, near its junction with Fox River, in a little -clearing in the forest, the Hall family dwelt and made a hard living -from the soil and from the game they might secure with the rifle. - -Ten years before this time they had forced their way westward from -eastern Pennsylvania and had hewn a home for themselves out of the -wilderness. At that time Joseph and his younger brother Robert were only -nine and seven years old, respectively. Brought up in the woods and on -the prairies they had learned the wisdom of the forest, the secrets of -the trees, the flowers and the streams; they knew the habits of the wild -animals and the favorite pools of the fish. Thorough woodsmen they were -both of them, sound in mind and strong in body. Fatigue was almost -unknown to these boys, and to endure hardships was a part of their -everyday life. - -It was now spring. The sun was warm and the trees were bursting with new -life as the days grew longer and summer approached. The time had come -when the crops must be planted and it was in this occupation that the -two boys were engaged when Joseph made his remark concerning Black Hawk. -A space several acres in extent, had been cleared in the heart of the -forest and here it was that the Hall family eked out a scanty existence. - -At one end of the clearing stood their home. A rough log cabin was all -it was, but it was home and consequently was very dear to the Halls. In -the rear the clearing ran down to the edge of the woods and as much as -possible of this land was under cultivation. Year by year the clearing -had been enlarged until now it occupied a considerable extent. Joseph -and Robert were busy at the opposite end from the place where their home -stood. - -“Black Hawk on the trail again!” exclaimed Robert in response to his -brother’s remark. - -“Exactly.” - -“Who told you?” - -“Deerfoot. I saw him early this morning down by the river.” - -Deerfoot was a Pottowattomie Indian, friendly to the white settlers and -to the Halls in particular. He had taught Joseph and Robert much of what -they knew of woodcraft and that he was a skillful teacher was attested -by the prowess the two boys had acquired. - -“Is it serious?” demanded Robert anxiously. He had been removing weeds -from the newly sprouted cornfield and he leaned on his hoe as he waited -for his brother’s reply. - -“Deerfoot says it is,” replied Joseph. “He says that Black Hawk is very -angry and means business this time.” - -“But what’s it all about?” Robert insisted. - -“The same old trouble. Black Hawk doesn’t want to leave this side of the -Mississippi and doesn’t intend to either, if he can help it.” - -“He signed a treaty nearly thirty years ago saying he would go, didn’t -he?” - -“I know it,” said Joseph. “According to Deerfoot, though, Black Hawk -thinks he was deceived at that time and that the treaty doesn’t bind -him. I think that if he had been made to leave at the time he signed -that treaty down at St. Louis, everything would have been all right. -They told him, however, that he could stay on until this country was -thrown open for settlement and now that they want him to go he refuses. -At least that’s what father thinks.” - -“Is he going to fight?” exclaimed Robert. - -“Deerfoot says so. He told me we’d better get to some safe place, too.” - -“Did you tell father that?” - -“I did, but he laughed at me. You know how he is; he said he wasn’t -afraid of all the Indians in North America.” - -“That’s foolish, I think.” - -“So do I,” agreed Joseph. “Black Hawk and his warriors may be right -around here now as far as we know. They’ll start by making war on the -settlers, too; you know they always do that. They blame the settlers for -taking their land away from them.” - -“How about Keokuk?” demanded Robert. “He is the head of the Sac tribe, -while Black Hawk is only a smaller chief. What is Keokuk going to do?” - -“He is already across the Mississippi, I understand. He evidently was -willing to go, or at least he thought that would be the wisest thing to -do. He is not a fighter like Black Hawk.” - -“I should say not,” exclaimed Robert. “Old Black Hawk has been fighting -nearly all his life, I guess.” - -“Ever since he was fifteen years old, so Deerfoot told me this morning. -He is about sixty-five now, so you see he has been on the warpath off -and on for fifty years. He must be a great old warrior if all Deerfoot -told me is true.” - -“What did he tell you?” - -“Well,” continued Joseph, “he said that when Black Hawk was only fifteen -he started fighting and that before he was seventeen he led a war party -against an Osage camp and brought back several scalps. When he was -nineteen he led another fight against the Osages and killed six people -with his own hands. A few years later in another battle he killed nine -men single-handed. In the war of 1812 he sided with the British and was -a terror along the border settlements. He’s a real old warrior, from all -accounts.” - -“He must be,” exclaimed Robert. “He doesn’t think for a minute that he -can whip the United States, though, does he? How many warriors has he, -anyway?” - -“About five hundred or more, according to Deerfoot. He expects, however, -that the Winnebagos, Pottowattomies, and Kickapoos will go in with him, -and if they do they can make it pretty hot for a while around here.” - -“Deerfoot won’t fight, will he?” - -“No, indeed,” said Joseph. “At least he said he wouldn’t fight with -Black Hawk. He doesn’t think that those other three tribes will join -him, either. He thinks Black Hawk will find only his own men with him -when the time comes.” - -“When is the time coming?” - -“It has already come. Black Hawk is on the trail with a party now, and -is going to make war on the settlers. He expects it will take the Whites -some time to organize and by that time he himself will have large -reinforcements from the other tribes.” - -“Well,” said Robert, “if he intends to make war on the settlers what is -there to prevent him from picking out the Hall family to start with?” - -“Nothing in the world. That’s just what I said to father, but he told me -to pay no attention to such nonsense. I thought we ought to have guns -out in the field here, but he said not. Just the same, I sneaked both -yours and mine out of the house and hid them in that bush over there. -Maybe father isn’t worried, but I am.” - -“Well, I’m worried, too,” agreed Robert. “I don’t think I’m a coward by -any means, but it seems to me it is a silly thing to do to stay right on -here as if there was no danger at all, when at any moment we may be -attacked by a band of hostile Indians.” - -“Still,” said Joseph, “we have no special reason for thinking that we -are to be the first ones attacked. Perhaps if some other family is -murdered, father may realize that it is serious and move on to some safe -place for a while.” - -“Yes, and he may wait too long.” - -“You can’t tell father there is any danger, though.” - -“I know it,” agreed Robert. “He holds all Indians in contempt and thinks -they’re all bad. Why, he hardly treats even Deerfoot like a human -being.” - -“Deerfoot knows it, too. I don’t think he likes father, and if it wasn’t -for the rest of us he wouldn’t be half so friendly.” - -“He likes us all right, and he’s been awfully good to you and me.” - -“He certainly has,” exclaimed Joseph eagerly. “Personally, I think he’d -warn us if he knew that Black Hawk and his band were coming this way.” - -“But he might not know it.” - -“I know,” protested Robert, “but you must remember that in this case it -is Indian against Indian. The Sac tribe is just as clever as the -Pottowattomie, and old Black Hawk is no fool. You don’t suppose he’d go -around telling everybody just where he intended to strike first, do -you?” - -“Perhaps not.” - -“_Perhaps_ not,” exclaimed Robert. “You mean _certainly_ not, I guess. -If I intended to attack you, you don’t think for an instant that I’d go -around telling everybody, do you? If I did, some one would be sure to -tell you, and what chance then would I have of being successful?” - -“You’d make a great chief, Bob,” said Joseph laughingly. - -“Not at all,” protested Robert. “I’m just stating what seems to me to be -common-sense.” - -“You’re right, of course,” agreed Joseph quickly, becoming serious once -more. “I think we’re in a dangerous position and I wish we were out of -it.” - -“Does mother know?” - -“Father wouldn’t let me tell her. He said it would only worry her and -the girls, and there was no use in it.” - -“We’ll talk to him tonight, both of us.” - -“It won’t do any good, I’m afraid. You know how stubborn he is. He -thinks there’s no danger, and no one can change his mind by talking to -him.” - -“Well,” said Robert, “I hope he’s right. But if he’s wrong I hope he’ll -find it out and change his mind before it is too late.” - -“Anyway,” exclaimed Joseph, “it won’t do us any good to stand here and -talk about it and it won’t help the corn to grow, either. Let’s forget -it, if we can.” - -The two young pioneers lapsed into silence and soon the only sound heard -in the cornfield was the click of their hoes as they dug the weeds out -of the soil and cleared a space for the tender shoots to gain the light -and air. The thought uppermost in the mind of each boy, however, was of -Black Hawk and his band of marauding warriors. - -It is hard for us to understand in these days what a peril and a menace -to frontier life these hostile Indians were. Every little while word -would come of some family wiped out by the uprising of a nearby tribe -and no one could tell at just what moment these onslaughts might come. - -Everyone went armed, not only for the sake of the game which provided -much of the food on which the pioneers lived, but also as a guard -against any surprise attack of warlike redmen. It is needless to state -the country abounded in “crack shots,” as the most skillful in the use -of the rifle were termed. Ammunition was scarce and no one could afford -to waste powder or bullets. Consequently they made every shot count and -it was wonderful to see the skill some of our early settlers acquired -with the rifle. In this sport, or rather in this serious business, no -one in the region surpassed Joseph Hall and his brother Robert. - -Through the warm spring afternoon the two brothers toiled on in the -cornfield. Their hands were busy with the hoe and their minds with -thoughts of Black Hawk and his warriors. The shadows grew longer, and -when at last dusk crept over the land they made ready to cease work for -the day. As they were preparing to stop, the call of a quail sounded -from the woods close to the place where the two boys were standing. Both -boys were immediately alert. A moment later the call was repeated. - -“Deerfoot,” exclaimed Joseph in a low voice. - -The two brothers hastened in the direction from which the call had been -heard and a moment later discovered their Indian friend hiding behind a -thick bush, waiting for them. He was nearly exhausted and had evidently -traveled far and fast. - -“What is it, Deerfoot?” exclaimed Joseph eagerly. “What is the trouble?” - -The Indian was panting and a brief time elapsed before he could speak. -Finally he regained his breath. - -“Black Hawk, he come!” gasped Deerfoot, and he pointed toward the -opposite end of the clearing. - -Hardly had he uttered these words when from the direction of the Hall’s -cabin came the blood-curdling sound of the Indian war whoop. - - - - - CHAPTER II - PURSUED - - -Both boys immediately darted toward the bush where their rifles were -hidden. Silently and swiftly they ran and then at their highest speed -returned to the spot where Deerfoot lay crouched upon the ground. The -air now resounded with the terrible war cry of the marauding Indians and -shots rang out through the evening air. - -“Come on, Bob,” exclaimed Joseph, as he swiftly started forward. - -He had taken only a few steps, however, when he felt himself gripped -strongly by his arm and held back. - -“No be a fool,” muttered Deerfoot. “Black Hawk have fifty braves. You be -killed unless stay here.” - -“But my family, my mother and sisters,” pleaded Joseph. “They will be -killed unless I go to help them.” - -“They be killed anyway,” said Deerfoot stoically. “No use you be killed, -too.” - -With one hand he held Joseph in a grip of iron, while with the other he -maintained a firm hold on Robert. Both boys struggled to free themselves -but to no avail. Their Indian ally held them fast, while all the time in -a low voice he talked to his young friends. - -“Black Hawk come with big band,” he explained. “Me run ten mile to warn -Halls. Black Hawk say he kill your father. He say your father bad to -Indian. No use you be killed, too. Soon they look for you. You better -run. Deerfoot take you away safe.” - -“No! No!” protested Joseph and Robert in one breath. - -“Let go of me, Deerfoot!” exclaimed Joseph. “Do you think I can leave, -while my family are being murdered? Let me go, I say!” - -“Deerfoot no let go,” replied the Indian calmly. - -The air now was resounding with the cries of the bloodthirsty redmen. If -the wild shouts provided a just basis by which to estimate the numbers -in the attacking party then it must be as large as Deerfoot had declared -it to be, the boys concluded. In their hearts both boys were already -convinced that whatever they might do would be of no avail. At the same -time it is not easy to watch an attack upon one’s family, and both boys -would rather have lost their own lives than to sit quietly by without -making an effort to aid. - -Every time the war whoop sounded a shudder ran through them and they -begged Deerfoot for a chance to try to protect or avenge their father, -mother and sisters. Both boys knew well that when an Indian makes war he -spares no one from the head of the family down to the baby in the -cradle. They already were convinced that soon they would be the only -survivors in what had but recently been a family of six. - -Suddenly Robert wrenched himself free from Deerfoot’s hold and sprang to -his feet. Night was rapidly coming on and objects at a distance were -hard to distinguish. Through the gathering dusk he could see his home in -the distance. It had been set on fire and around and around it the red -marauders were dancing, sending forth their fiendish shouts of victory. -Undoubtedly everyone in the house was now dead and soon only the charred -remains of what had once been their home would remain. - -An ungovernable feeling of rage surged up in Robert’s breast and he -vowed vengeance. He raised his rifle to his shoulder and took careful -aim. Never in his life had he been more self-controlled in his actions -than he was at that moment. The roof of the cabin suddenly burst into -flame and lighted up the awful scene being enacted nearby. As he pulled -the trigger one of the Indians suddenly leaped high into the air and -fell headlong upon his face and lay still. Robert’s aim had been true. - -As if by magic the war dance of Black Hawk’s band abruptly ceased. -Comrades rushed to the side of the fallen brave and tried to lift him to -his feet. Their efforts, however, were without avail; the warrior was -dead. As soon as the others became aware of the fall of their comrade -they immediately turned to see from which direction the fatal shot had -come. - -As often happens at sundown there was no breeze stirring. Rising among -the trees over the spot where Robert and his two companions were -standing, appeared the smoke from the young frontiersman’s gun. The -sharp-eyed Sac Indians immediately spied this and with a shout of rage a -score or more of them started at full speed in the direction of the -tell-tale smoke. - -When Robert had fired his rifle, Deerfoot realized that their position -was now disclosed and he instantly released his hold on Joseph. There -was no advantage to be gained by any further attempt to hide. Joseph -gained his feet just as the hostile Indians spied the smoke from his -brother’s gun, and hastily taking aim he fired at the approaching -warriors. The fact that one of them stopped suddenly and clutched his -shoulder proved that Joseph as well as Robert was skillful in the use of -a rifle. - -“Fools!” exclaimed Deerfoot in the ears of the two boys. - -“But, Deerfoot—” began Robert, at the same time hastening to reload his -gun. - -“Come!” exclaimed Deerfoot, breaking in upon him. “Come, if you no wish -to die.” - -Without a word he turned and sped into the forest, the two boys closely -following him. Less than a quarter of a mile behind them they could hear -the war cry of the enraged redmen, hot upon their trail. This was no -time to think of family or anything else except self preservation. Both -boys realized that this was to be a race with a prize of life or death -at the finish, and this knowledge provided them with additional -strength. - -With Deerfoot in the lead, they fled silently and swiftly through the -fast gathering darkness of the forest. If they could outstrip their -pursuers and keep out of their way until darkness fell, then their -chances of escape would be redoubled. They were fully aware of this fact -and they knew also that the foes at their heels knew it, too. Deerfoot -set a heart-breaking pace and if the two brothers had not been in -excellent condition they never could have hoped to maintain the speed -with which they were running. - -Neither boy had any idea of the direction in which they were fleeing. -They followed their leader blindly, trusting implicitly in him to save -them. Their entire attention was centered in Deerfoot and they paid no -attention to any task other than that of doing their utmost to keep pace -with their leader. - -Behind them resounded the shouts of their pursuers and the fugitives -seemed to acquire renewed speed every time they heard the blood-curdling -cries. - -At length, however, they began to weaken. No one was able to maintain -such a pace very much farther. At least that is what both Robert and -Joseph were thinking. They still had their rifles, and they were -determined to hold them at any cost. The guns were heavy, however, and -undoubtedly prevented the boys from maintaining their speed. - -The darkness increased and Deerfoot began steadily to draw away from his -two young friends. Born and reared in the woods, and lightly dressed, he -proved more than a match for the fast tiring brothers. They struggled -desperately to keep up but they both realized that before long they -would be compelled to stop. And ever nearer sounded the war whoop of the -Sacs. - -“I can’t go much farther, Deerfoot,” panted Joseph. - -“Nor I,” gasped Robert. - -At the word the flying Indian slackened his pace and waited for the boys -to catch up. - -“Only little more,” he exclaimed, “no stop now. All die if stop now.” - -“But where are you taking us?” exclaimed Joseph. - -“Follow Deerfoot, he show you,” and once again the fleet-footed Indian -sped down the darkening aisles of the forest. Night was now so near at -hand that it was with difficulty that the two boys kept their guide in -sight. They made one last effort, however, and exerting all the strength -and will power they possessed they managed to follow where Deerfoot led. - -Suddenly the Indian stopped. - -“Black Hawk no see trail now,” he exclaimed. “We hide here.” - -He darted behind a huge tree as he spoke, the boys instantly following -his example. - -“Where are we going to hide?” demanded Joseph. - -“Follow Deerfoot,” and as he spoke the Indian began to climb the nearest -tree. Seemingly he went directly up the side of the tree and there were -no branches to which he might cling for a considerable distance above -the ground. - -“Steps in tree,” announced Deerfoot, stopping when he had gone a few -feet. “You find ’um easy. Follow Deerfoot.” - -Standing where Deerfoot had stood Joseph ran his hands over the hark of -the huge oak tree. Sure enough, steps large enough and deep enough to -render climbing comparatively safe had been cut into the side of the -tree. They were just about as far apart as the rungs of a ladder and -having once started on the strange stairway it was very easy to -continue. Joseph and Robert speedily discovered this condition and soon -were following Deerfoot as he directed them and were moving nearly as -rapidly as the Indian himself. - -In a very brief time all three had reached the first huge branches of -the oak. Here a small platform had been built, consisting of only two or -three planks, but they were so arranged that when the three fugitives -lay down there was sufficient room for them all. These planks had been -cunningly concealed by branches and moss, though naturally the boys did -not know this in the darkness. It was about all they could do to make -out the indistinct outlines of the nearby trees. - -The description of their activities required more time than Deerfoot and -his two companions consumed in their efforts to gain this place of -refuge. In a very short time they were lying prone on the platform and -peering eagerly down into the depths of the forest. They had moved -cautiously and silently and well it was that they had made no noise. -Scarcely were they settled in the place before shadowy forms began to -flit past them in the dim light below. - -No war whoops now were heard. The redmen were on the trail to avenge -their dead comrade and the one who had been wounded, and now that night -had fallen they had no desire to disclose their position. Joseph and -Robert could not repress an involuntary shudder as they watched their -pursuers speed past them. At the same time they had a feeling of -satisfaction as they thought that they had thus far outwitted their foes -and for the present at least were comparatively safe.— - -Twenty-seven warriors passed beneath the platform in the old oak tree, -according to Joseph’s count. Certainly there were enough of them to -overcome any resistance the three fugitives could furnish. Night came -on, but not for a moment was the vigilance of any one on the platform -relaxed. Hour after hour dragged by and soon the dawn would appear. -Robert understood as well as Joseph and Deerfoot, that when morning came -their position would no longer be safe. With the coming of the morning -light the hostile Indians would surely discover their trail and follow -it to the base of the large oak tree. If they were to escape, now was -the time to do so. - -“Come,” said Deerfoot in a low voice. - -He cautiously arose and started to make his way down the strange -stairway. Joseph and Robert followed closely behind. Slowly and as -quietly as possible they descended the tree and soon their feet were on -solid ground once more. There they stood for a moment, and then, with -Deerfoot in the lead, they started to retrace their course of the night -before. - -They had covered a hundred yards or more when suddenly from a bush -almost directly in front of them came the sharp bark of a rifle. A -bullet whistled over their heads. - - - - - CHAPTER III - A DEVASTATED HOME - - -All three immediately dropped on their hands and knees. Rifles in hand -they scurried for the nearest shelter and awaited developments. A puff -of smoke floated upward from the bush whence the shot had come, as the -three fugitives stretched themselves prone behind the trunk of a large -fallen tree. After many moments of waiting Deerfoot cautiously raised -his head. - -He dropped back again quickly, however, as a rifle ball splintered the -bark scarcely ten inches from him. Evidently their enemy was keeping a -sharp lookout. Apparently there was only one Indian in the bush, but -neither of the two young pioneers nor their red ally cared to take any -chances with him. For some moments there was absolute silence in that -part of the forest where this little drama was being enacted. - -Suddenly Deerfoot stirred. He evidently had some scheme he wished to put -into execution. - -“Give Deerfoot hat,” he whispered to Joseph, who lay next to him. - -Without hesitation Joseph did as he was told. Deerfoot pulled a strip of -bark from the fallen tree and placed the hat upon one end of it, while -he held to the other. Cautiously and slowly he raised the hat until it -showed above their shelter. Immediately it was fired upon. - -Deerfoot turned to his young friends and smiled grimly. - -“I do that again,” he whispered. “When he fire, white boys jump to feet -and fire too. We take him by surprise.” - -“A fine idea,” exclaimed Joseph eagerly. “Are you all ready, Bob?” - -“All ready,” replied Robert quietly. “Just give me the signal.” - -The two boys crouched, guns in hand, ready to spring to their feet -instantly. Deerfoot also prepared to do his part. He lay on his back and -slowly raised the hat; it was a nervous moment for the three people -behind the fallen tree trunk. They did not know whether or not their foe -would be deceived by their strategy and they could not be sure that only -one hostile redman lurked in the nearby bush. Day had now come, however, -and it was high time for them to move on. In a short time that portion -of Black Hawk’s band which had pursued them the night before might once -more appear and then their escape would be hopeless. - -So gradually did Deerfoot raise the hat that it scarcely seemed to move. -Little by little, however, it was elevated on the stick until it showed -above the fallen log. Joseph and Robert waited with every muscle tense, -ready to spring to their feet the instant their enemy should fire. If -Deerfoot’s strategy succeeded and if there was only one Indian who -barred their way the three fugitives would soon be able to resume their -journey. - -After what seemed to the two young pioneers to be a very long time the -hat appeared above the log. Now was the important moment, and of the -three persons hiding behind the fallen tree, two of them at least were -very nervous. The success or failure of their scheme would now be -determined in a very short time. - -When at least two inches of the hat was exposed to view, Deerfoot -waited. Nothing happened, however. He raised the hat a bit higher. Still -there was no result. Perhaps their foe suspected a plot and was -determined not to be caught. That such could be the case seemed most -improbable, however. Deerfoot raised the hat still a little higher and -moved it slightly to one side, as if its owner was trying to conceal -himself behind something. - -Bang! A shot suddenly struck the hat squarely in the center and -splintered the stick, tearing it from Deerfoot’s hand. - -“Now, Bob,” exclaimed Joseph, springing to his feet. - -Both boys immediately jumped up and taking quick aim fired into the bush -whence the bullets had come. Then they once more dodged behind the -sheltering log. A shrill cry at that moment startled them, however, and -looking up they saw Deerfoot, knife in hand, charging the spot where -their enemy was located. He uttered the war whoop of the Pottowattomies -and it was this that the boys had heard. - -“We mustn’t let him go alone,” cried Robert, and as he spoke the two -young woodsmen dashed forward to lend what assistance they could to -their ally. - -There was nothing for them to do, however, when they reached the bush. -Stretched upon the ground lay the Indian who had so nearly succeeded in -shooting and perhaps killing one of the three. Hideous he looked in his -gaudy war paint, smeared as he was with it from head to foot. One glance -was sufficient to convince the two brothers that their foe was dead, and -it was hard for them to repress a shudder, as they looked at the cruel -face on the ground before them, and realized what might have been their -fate had they fallen into the hands of such an enemy. - -“Deerfoot, you mustn’t do that!” exclaimed Joseph suddenly. - -Knife in hand Deerfoot was busily engaged in scalping his fallen foe. As -Joseph spoke, their Indian ally muttered something, but did not stop the -work in which he was engaged. - -“Deerfoot—” began Joseph again, when Robert interrupted him. - -“Let him alone, Joe,” he cautioned in a low voice. “It is his custom to -do that and he won’t like it if we stop him.” - -“I guess you’re right,” agreed Joseph. “I can’t look at him, though,” -and he turned his back on the revolting scene being enacted on the -ground at his feet. The two young pioneers withdrew a short distance and -waited for Deerfoot to join them. - -“That was a lucky shot that one of us made,” remarked Joseph. - -“I should say so,” agreed Robert, who was busily engaged in reloading -his gun. “I wonder which one of us hit him.” - -“I know I didn’t see him when I fired,” said Joseph. “I just aimed at -the bush and trusted to luck.” - -“The same thing I did,” exclaimed Joseph. - -“Well, as long as we were successful it doesn’t make much difference who -it was that hit him, I guess,” said Robert. - -At this moment Deerfoot came to the place where the boys were standing. -Joseph could not help noticing the fresh scalp dangling at the belt of -the Indian and he felt a chill run up and down his spine at the sight. -As Robert had said, however, Deerfoot had only done what was customary -with his people and as he knew no better, he was not to be blamed. - -“Come,” said Deerfoot. “Black Hawk soon find trail. Maybe he hear shots -too. We better go.” - -“Where are we going?” demanded Joseph. - -“Follow Deerfoot,” replied the Indian calmly. - -“I want to go home,” exclaimed Joseph. - -“So do I,” echoed Robert. “I want to know what has happened to our -family.” - -“No go home,” protested Deerfoot. “All family dead. You know that.” - -“That may be true,” said Joseph, “but I want to see with my own eyes. Do -you think I could just go away now and never know for sure that all my -family were dead? Even if they have been killed, and I’m afraid that’s -what has happened, I want to go back. I want to give them a decent -burial at least.” - -“That’s just the way I feel,” exclaimed Robert. - -“You may be killed, too,” protested Deerfoot. - -“I’ll take that chance,” insisted Joseph. “You don’t have to go with us -if you don’t want to, you know. At any rate I think that would be the -last place they would think of looking for us. They won’t think that -we’ll dare go back there.” - -“That’s right, Joe,” exclaimed his brother. “Are you going with us, -Deerfoot?” - -“Deerfoot go where you go,” said the Indian shortly. - -Without another word they set out. Deerfoot led the way as usual, with -the two brothers following close behind him. Extreme caution was used, -as they did not know when the hostile band of Indians might suddenly -loom up in their path. They had covered not more than a mile when -Deerfoot suddenly held up his hand and the boys instantly came to a full -stop. - -“There house,” said Deerfoot, pointing ahead of him as he spoke. - -Sure enough. Through the trees the young brothers could see a clearing -which they immediately recognized as theirs. They saw no house, however. -Steadily they crept nearer to the edge of the forest and a heart-rending -scene lay spread before their eyes. What had once been a sturdy little -cabin was now a mass of blackened embers from which a thin spiral of -smoke was still curling. - -“Do you suppose it’s safe to go closer?” asked Robert in a -sorrow-stricken voice. “Out into the clearing, I mean.” - -“I don’t know whether it is or not,” replied Joseph. “But I do know that -I am going anyway.” - -The two brothers stepped out from the shelter of the trees and -approached their ruined home. They held their guns ready for immediate -use, however, and they were alert to any danger which might arise. -Deerfoot walked at their side. - -“Me keep guard,” he said. “No stay long though, please.” - -“No, not long, Deerfoot,” promised Joseph. The Indian took up his post -in the tiny orchard that the Hall family had nursed so carefully, while -the two boys went forward to examine the ruins. - -The devastation had been complete. The smouldering pile of charred ruins -alone bore witness to the fact that a house had once stood on the site. -The two young brothers were too completely overcome to speak for several -moments. All they could do was to stand and look sorrowfully at the -ruins of what had once been their home. - -“We can’t do much here, I guess,” said Joseph at length. - -“No,” replied Robert, choking back a sob. “It looks as though Black Hawk -and his band have made a good job of it.” - -“In those ruins,” went on Joseph bitterly, “undoubtedly lie the bodies -of our father and mother and our two sisters. Just think of it; at this -time yesterday they were alive and happy. Now they are all dead, burned -up by the flames of their own home and no doubt their scalps have been -taken, just as Deerfoot took the scalp of that Indian in the woods this -morning.” - -“Well,” exclaimed Robert, “one thing is sure and that is that I shall -never rest until I have avenged their deaths. From now on I swear enmity -to Black Hawk and all his tribe. I’ll have revenge or die in the -attempt. That much I’m certain of.” - -“Look there!” said Joseph. “They didn’t even spare Shep.” - -A few feet away lay the body of a collie dog, a bullet through his -brain. Shep, the playmate and faithful friend of the Hall family, one -that had shared their fortunes uncomplainingly, whether they were good -or bad, had also fallen a victim to the blood lust of the hostile -redmen. - -“We’ll avenge Shep too,” exclaimed Robert earnestly. “Come on, Joe! We -can’t do any good here and we are probably in danger too. Let’s find -Deerfoot and get out of here as fast as we can.” - -“Where are we going to go?” - -“I haven’t an idea. I haven’t thought that far. All I know is I want to -get away from here. The other settlers ought to be warned too before the -same thing happens to them that has happened to our family.” - -“All right,” agreed Joseph. “Let’s find Deerfoot and go somewhere. I -don’t care much where it is either.” - -When he saw the two brothers approaching to meet him Deerfoot hastened -toward them. - -“Must hurry,” he exclaimed. “I think Black Hawk come soon.” - -Not even asking where he intended to go, Joseph and Robert followed -Deerfoot and in a half-dazed condition walked beside him. To be made -orphans as suddenly and as unexpectedly as these two boys had been, -would be a shock to anyone and both young frontiersmen felt their loss -keenly. - -They made their way across the clearing and were just about to enter the -woods when from behind them came the sharp bark of a rifle. A bullet -sang above their heads and buried itself in a nearby tree. - - - - - CHAPTER IV - A HIDDEN RETREAT - - -Neither Joseph nor Robert nor Deerfoot stopped to see who it was that -had fired at them. Without a word they plunged quickly in among the -trees and once again started on a race for their lives. From behind them -came the faint sounds of the war whoops, which only served to increase -the speed of the three fugitives. - -They had baffled and eluded their pursuers the night previous, but could -they do it again? That was the thought uppermost in the minds of the -three hunted men who were once more closely pressed by their enemies. -Certainly they intended to do their utmost. - -No sounds reached them from behind now, but this did not mean that their -foes had given up the chase. The two brothers and their Indian friend -realized that this time it was to be a race to a finish. Black Hawk and -his band had been foiled once and consequently it would be all the -harder to escape them the second time. The three fugitives knew that -their enemies would keep up the pursuit until the race was definitely -settled. - -On and on Deerfoot led the way until they emerged from the woods onto -the open prairie. There was an open space, at least a mile wide here, -bordered on both sides by the forest and directly out upon this Deerfoot -sped. - -“They’ll see us here surely, Deerfoot,” panted Joseph. “We’ll be in -plain sight and they can easily shoot us down.” - -“Follow Deerfoot,” came the short, sharp reply, and neither Joseph nor -his brother offered any more objections. - -Deerfoot did not go far from the shelter of the trees, however. He ran -perhaps twenty-five or thirty yards from the border of the forest and -then turned abruptly to his left. The ground was hard here and the trail -as a consequence difficult to follow. Deerfoot kept on in this new -course perhaps fifty yards more and then made another sharp turn to his -left. This brought them back toward the woods once more. - -Both boys now saw Deerfoot’s plan. He was doubling on his tracks. The -ground on the prairie was hard and along the surface of the earth ran a -vein of solid rock. It would be almost impossible to follow a trail -there, at least with any degree of speed, and Deerfoot had counted upon -that as an aid. He hoped to gain a few precious moments by his strategy. - -Safe within the shelter of the forest, once more the wily Pottowattomie -called a halt. The three fugitives crouched behind the shelter of a bush -and gazed eagerly out across the prairie. They were all out of wind and -a chance to regain their lost breath was heartily welcomed. - -“Think we’ve thrown them off the trail?” whispered Joseph. - -“No for long,” replied Deerfoot quietly. - -As he spoke an Indian bounded out of the woods, closely followed by -several more. They all stopped and looked about them in a puzzled -manner, and as more of their companions at that time joined them, a -hasty consultation was held. They gesticulated and pointed in all -directions, evidently at a loss what to do next. One of them pointed to -the woods beyond the prairie, but evidently the others did not think -their quarry could have gained enough ground to have reached that -shelter. - -“Come,” said Deerfoot, slinking away. “They find our trail soon.” - -“No. Let’s not waste any time,” agreed Robert, and once more the flight -was resumed. Soon they came to a brook. Into this Deerfoot plunged -without any hesitation and began making his way down stream as fast as -he was able. The two brothers followed closely behind, and, imitating -their guide, they jumped from rock to rock when such a course was -possible, and at other times they waded in the shallow waters of the -stream. This was another trick to throw their pursuers off the trail. -Evidently Deerfoot was using all his skill and cunning. - -Down the stream they went for at least a third of a mile before Deerfoot -decided to try the solid earth again. At a small rocky beach they left -the brook and struck out through the woods once more. A short time later -he once more entered the brook and went ashore on the opposite side. He -was doubling on their tracks continually, and certainly no one but a -skilled Indian could follow the course he was leading. - -After a further flight they came to Fox River. Along its shores were -marshes overhung with willows. From underneath one of these Deerfoot -drew a canoe, skillfully hidden in the rushes, and a few moments later -the three fugitives were seated in this frail craft, paddling swiftly -down the stream. - -“We fool them, I think,” said Deerfoot grimly. “We fool Black Hawk, all -right. He no catch us now.” - -“I hope you’re right,” exclaimed Joseph fervently. “I know I should hate -to have him catch us.” - -“I’ve gotten so I don’t much care what happens,” said Robert, speaking -with difficulty. - -“Why, what’s the matter?” inquired his brother. - -“I’m so tired and so hungry, I feel as if it didn’t make much difference -what becomes of us. Our family is all gone and what’s the use?” - -“Don’t talk like that,” protested Joseph. “Weren’t you the one who was -swearing vengeance only a couple of hours ago?” - -“I know it,” admitted Robert mournfully. “Just think, though, we didn’t -have any sleep last night and we have had no food since yesterday -sometime. I can’t keep this up much longer.” - -“Deerfoot know where food is,” exclaimed the Indian. “We be there soon. -Also can sleep too.” - -He had but little sympathy with Robert’s complaints. It was a part of -his training, and was bred in the blood of every Indian youth, to endure -what came and not grumble. Whether he encountered good or bad fortune -his attitude was the same and he always looked with contempt at what he -considered the weakness of the white people if they complained of their -sufferings or misfortunes. He was intensely fond of both Joseph and -Robert, however, and he did not hold them personally responsible for -what he regarded as a grave fault. In his heart he blamed their race. - -“Thank goodness,” ejaculated Robert in response to Deerfoot’s statement. -“Food and sleep are the two things I want most of all right now.” - -“I need them too,” said Joseph. “I think, however, that our hardships -have just begun. That is, if we meant what we said this morning about -avenging our family. I know I meant it anyway.” - -“So did I,” exclaimed Robert. “I didn’t mean to be a baby just now and -it won’t happen again. Here, Deerfoot, let me paddle.” - -“No. Deerfoot paddle,” replied the Indian quietly. - -His manner immediately changed toward Robert, however, as he saw a -revival of spirit in the boy. It was never his custom openly to rebuke -either of his young friends. He set an example and took it for granted -that the brothers would follow it. He was immensely proud of his young -pupils, for it was in this light that he regarded them, and stoical as -he was he could not always hide his feelings. - -Down the narrow stream they went about two miles. Here the channel -became lost in a huge swamp, a place that had always been a mystery and -an attraction to the two brothers. They had never explored the swamp to -any extent, however, for they invariably lost their bearings when they -entered it and experienced difficulty in finding their way out. The -channel of Fox River was easily discerned and not hard to follow, but -Deerfoot soon left the channel and bore off to his left. - -The reeds and rushes grew high in the swamp. Great overhanging trees -shut out the sun and made the place dark and gloomy. Here and there -muskrat houses appeared and more than once these ratlike denizens of the -marshes could be seen hastening to cover at the approach of the canoe. -Everything was so still that it had a pronounced effect on the three men -in the canoe, as they wound their way in and out along the narrow -waterways. - -Deerfoot seemed perfectly sure of his course and did not once hesitate -as he skillfully maneuvered the frail craft through the swamp. In -absolute silence they progressed, the hoarse croak of a heron disturbed -by their approach being the only sound to break the stillness. - -The narrow channel suddenly turned sharply to the right and a small -lagoon appeared before the eyes of the three fugitives. In the center of -the little lake was an island about a hundred feet square and heavily -wooded. - -“There place,” said Deerfoot calmly. - -“Can we land there?” questioned Robert doubtfully. “It looks pretty -swampy to me.” - -“No swamp in middle,” replied the Indian. - -A few powerful strokes of the paddle brought them to the shore of the -tiny island. Beneath the low hanging branches of a great willow tree -they glided and a moment later stepped ashore. Deerfoot carefully drew -the canoe out of the water and concealed it behind the screen of a heavy -growth of bushes. - -The ground was wet and marshy near the shore, but a few yards farther -inland it rose abruptly, affording a firm, dry footing. Robert and -Joseph followed Deerfoot as he led the way to the very center of the -island. Here was a log hut, only a few feet high and carefully hidden by -vines which had grown until they entirely covered the building. A narrow -window afforded fresh air and a scanty supply of light. - -The Indian stooped and unfastened the low door. Then on his hands and -knees he crawled inside, closely followed by the two young pioneers. To -say they were surprised to find this retreat would be stating the case -mildly. Never a word had Deerfoot ever spoken of this island or the hut -upon it and neither of the boys had ever suspected that such a place was -located within only a few miles of their own home. - -“Just think how many times we have passed this place and yet we’ve never -known a thing about it,” remarked Joseph. - -“Well, I should say so,” exclaimed Robert. They were seated on the hard -earthen floor of the tiny house, interestedly examining every detail of -their shelter and hiding place. Robert’s fatigue and hunger had entirely -given way to his interest in his new surroundings. When Deerfoot -produced dried venison and corn from a stone closet in one corner, -however, these two feelings soon returned. - -“Food,” said the Indian shortly, offering the provender to the two young -brothers. “Then sleep.” - -No second invitation was needed. The two boys grasped the food like -starving men and soon ate all that had been given them. Deerfoot offered -them no more and they both knew better than to ask for it. If the Indian -had wished them to have more he would have given it to them. A moment -later, the food gone, they stretched themselves at full length on the -ground, and immediately fell fast asleep. - - - - - CHAPTER V - A NEEDED REST - - -How long he slept neither boy knew. Robert was the first to awaken and -for some moments he could not remember where he was. The last two days -had been so crowded with events that it had all seemed a confused and -horrible dream to the young frontiersman. He rubbed his eyes and sat up, -bewildered by his strange surroundings. - -For some time he sat still, trying to recall where he was and what had -brought him to this place. He looked about him and the sight of his -brother Joseph stretched upon the ground by his side suddenly brought a -remembrance of his recent experiences to his mind. He stretched himself -and yawned audibly. At the sound Joseph stirred and opened his eyes. - -“Hello, Bob,” he said drowsily. “Where are we?” - -“That’s just what I was trying to think a moment ago,” replied Robert. -“I know now though. We’re on Deerfoot’s island in the middle of the -swamp.” - -“Sure enough,” exclaimed Joseph, sitting up. “Where’s Deerfoot?” - -“I’ve no idea. I just woke up.” - -“What time is it?” - -“I don’t know. It’s broad daylight outside though.” - -“It must be afternoon then,” said Joseph. “We arrived here sometime in -the forenoon, I think.” - -“Yes, I know we did. I don’t think it’s afternoon though.” - -“Why not?” - -“Because I feel very much rested. I think it must be tomorrow morning, -if you understand what I mean by that remark.” - -“You mean we’ve slept nearly all day, and all night, too, I suppose.” - -“Yes,” said Robert. “That’s exactly what I mean.” - -“Impossible.” - -“Not at all. That would only bring us up to our average anyway.” - -Joseph made his way to the window and looked out. “Perhaps you’re -right,” he agreed. “It does look sort of like early morning outside.” - -“Don’t you think we ought to find Deerfoot?” - -“We might look for him anyway. Let’s go out.” - -They crawled out through the low door and after scanning the landscape -for possible signs of an enemy both stood up. Deerfoot was nowhere to be -seen. - -“Let’s look for the canoe,” suggested Robert. “If that is gone, Deerfoot -is with it somewhere.” - -They walked quickly to the place where the canoe had been hidden, but it -was not to be found. - -“Where do you suppose he has gone?” demanded Joseph. - -“I’ve no idea. Scouting, I guess.” - -“I hope nothing happens to him,” exclaimed Joseph. “Suppose he should be -killed. We’d be left in a nice fix; on an island in the middle of a -swamp we know nothing about, and with no boat to take us off.” - -“Don’t worry about anything happening to Deerfoot,” said Robert -confidently. “He’ll be back here safe and sound before long.” - -“I hope you’re right. Let’s go back to the hut and wait there.” - -A few moments later the boys seated themselves in front of the little -log cabin. They sat where the sun would shine directly upon them, for -the early morning air was cold. They took especial care, however, to -select a place where they would not be exposed to the view of any chance -passerby. They knew enough about Indians to realize that one can never -be too careful when attempting to remain hidden from them. An Indian -will see the smoke of a camp fire for miles distant; the slightest noise -will alarm him, and a trail is an open book for him to read. - -“Do you suppose Black Hawk and his band could trace us here?” - -“I doubt it,” said Joseph in response to his brother’s query. “They -might have followed our trail up to the spot where we took the canoe. I -don’t see how any human being could track us to this island though. If -we are discovered it will only be by luck.” - -Though hidden from the sight of passersby, the two boys were in a -position where they could see all that occurred on the lagoon. As his -brother finished speaking Robert half rose to his feet. - -“Look!” he exclaimed. - -“It’s Deerfoot,” said Joseph, gazing in the direction Robert indicated. - -Across the lagoon sped the canoe, propelled by the expert paddle of the -Pottowattomie. A moment later Deerfoot landed, drew the canoe ashore and -approached the cabin door where the boys were seated. In one hand he -held a string of perch and in the other he carried a duck. - -What the two brothers both noticed at once, however, was the fact that -from his belt now dangled two scalps where the day previous there had -been but one. Neither boy dared ask an explanation, however, for they -knew that if Deerfoot cared to tell of his exploit he would do so -voluntarily. Questions would have no effect upon him other than to make -him angry, for curiosity as to other people’s affairs was always -regarded by an Indian as very bad breeding. - -“Boys sleep long,” said Deerfoot, when he had come to the place where -they were seated. - -“Yes, Deerfoot,” agreed Joseph. “We were very tired.” - -“Me catch fish and duck,” said the Indian. - -“So we see,” laughed Joseph. “How did you do it?” - -“Fish with hook. Duck with snare. How you s’pose?” - -“I didn’t know,” replied Joseph meekly. He considered Deerfoot’s reply a -rebuke, for evidently the Indian took it for granted that he should know -how the game had been captured. The Pottowattomie did not care for -useless questions. - -“Did you see anything of Black Hawk?” asked Robert. - -“No see him,” replied Deerfoot, who at once began the work of cleaning -the fish he had caught. Robert asked no more questions and as Deerfoot -did not offer to tell how he had captured the second scalp, the matter -was evidently closed, at least for the present. Both boys were burning -with curiosity, but to no purpose. Some day perhaps, if Deerfoot felt so -inclined, he would tell them all about his exploit, but this he -apparently did not consider the proper time to do so. - -“How long do you expect to stay here, Deerfoot?” inquired Joseph after -several moments of silence. The Indian was cleaning the last fish and he -made no reply until he had finished. The task did not consume much time, -however, for the Pottowattomie was an expert in this art. He laid the -fish upon a flat stone with the others, wiped his knife clean and then -answered Joseph’s question. - -“We leave tonight,” he said. - -“Where are we going?” demanded Joseph and Robert in one breath. - -“Dixon’s Ferry.” - -“Dixon’s Ferry!” exclaimed Joseph. “Why, that’s a long distance from -here.” - -“I know,” agreed Deerfoot. “We go there. Soldiers there, too.” - -“Is that so?” cried Joseph in surprise. “You mean soldiers sent against -Black Hawk?” - -“Yes,” said the Indian. “Governor Reynolds send soldiers.” - -“How do you know all this?” inquired Robert doubtfully. - -“Me know,” replied Deerfoot shortly. He did not like to have his -statements questioned, and immediately lapsed into silence. He ignored -any further remarks on the subject made by either of the brothers, and -busied himself in his preparations for the meal. - -He quickly brought dried birch logs from inside the cabin and a moment -later had a cheerful fire blazing. The wood he used did not smoke, so -that any danger on that score was removed. As soon as the fire was well -under way he seized the captured duck, holding it by its head with one -hand and by its feet with the other. A moment later all of its feathers -were singed off by the fire and he soon had the wild fowl skillfully -prepared for cooking. - -Before long a splendid bed of coals had collected and in these Deerfoot -placed the fish. The duck he spitted on a sharp stick and soon the -savory smell of cooking food reminded the young pioneers how hungry they -were. When the perch were done they were rolled in corn meal and quickly -disappeared down the throats of the three fugitives. When the duck was -eaten and the fire extinguished they settled back against the side of -the cabin, feeling very much at peace with the world, in spite of their -precarious position. - -“Not dark for long while,” said Deerfoot. “Boys better sleep.” - -“What?” exclaimed Joseph. “You don’t think we can sleep all the time, do -you? I feel as if I never wanted to sleep again.” - -“You feel different tomorrow maybe.” - -“That may be so, but I can’t sleep now, that’s sure. How do you feel, -Bob?” - -“Entirely slept out,” replied Robert, his remark followed by a yawn, -however. - -All three lapsed into silence while they scanned the surrounding -landscape and wished for the coming of night. The quiet of the swamp was -undisturbed save for the occasional call of a wild fowl or a splash -caused by the jump of a fish. The wind blowing gently through the trees -and rushes furnished a drowsy hum as a background to the other noises. -As far as one could judge from appearances in the swamp, all the world -was at peace. Little would anyone suspect that the three men on the tiny -island had been forced to seek that refuge because of hostile Indians. - -“Where is Black Hawk’s village?” asked Joseph suddenly. - -“Where Rock River meet Mississippi,” replied Deerfoot. “That was his -village.” - -“Why do you say _was_?” - -“White people take it away from him,” said Deerfoot. - -“Is that why he’s fighting?” inquired Joseph. “If they stole his -village, then I don’t blame him.” - -“Don’t forget this though,” exclaimed Robert hotly. “The Whites may have -cheated the Indians lots of times, but just the same the Sacs signed a -treaty to move across the Mississippi, and they have refused to go. At -any rate nothing can excuse their killing our family. We did nothing to -Black Hawk or any of his people and I intend to get even if I can. How -can the country ever expect to be settled if the people are liable to be -murdered at any moment?” - -“That’s true,” agreed Joseph. “It’s hard to blame Black Hawk from his -point of view though. He probably thinks he’s entitled to all this land -and that every white settler is a thief who is trying to steal from -him.” - -“Black Hawk isn’t the head of his tribe anyway,” continued Robert. -“Keokuk is the big chief, isn’t he, Deerfoot?” - -“That right,” grunted the Indian. “Black Hawk the war chief. He -fighter.” - -“All Pottowattomies are fighters, aren’t they?” said Robert, at the same -time covertly nudging Joseph as he spoke. Deerfoot merely grunted but -his eyes shone at this remark of his young white friend, and -unconsciously he felt for the two scalps at his belt. They were not -there, however, but stretched on frames, were drying in the sun before -the cabin. They presented a gruesome sight but one from which the -brothers found difficulty in keeping their gaze. - -Both boys smiled at the pride exhibited by Deerfoot in response to -Robert’s insinuation as to the prowess of the Pottowattomies. For some -time they lazily discussed Black Hawk and his deeds. - -Finally Deerfoot stretched himself at full length on the ground and -straightway fell asleep. In spite of their long rest the two brothers -soon followed his example; they had been more tired than they realized -and were soon in the land of dreams. They were awakened by Deerfoot -shaking them gently by the shoulder. When they opened their eyes it was -dusk. - -“Come,” urged Deerfoot. “Time to go.” - - - - - CHAPTER VI - A NEW DANGER - - -Deerfoot offered the two boys dried venison and some cakes made of corn -meal. The three fugitives partook heartily of this simple repast and -then prepared to continue their flight. Silently and with extreme -caution they made their way to the place where the canoe lay hidden and -a few moments later all three embarked. The night was dark, but this -fact did not seem to trouble Deerfoot. He wielded the paddle and with -strong, sure strokes propelled the light canoe swiftly over the waters -of the lagoon. - -In a short time they were once more among the rushes and through the -narrow waterways Deerfoot paddled the frail craft as confidently as a -man might walk down the street of some familiar town. Joseph and Robert -crouched low in the canoe, made no sound, but constantly marveled at the -skill of their Indian friend, who so easily found his way in the -marshes. - -Presently they emerged from the swamp into the main channel of the -river. As close to the shore as possible Deerfoot steered his course and -now did scarcely more than guide the canoe; he allowed the current to -carry them along. Although it was somewhat sluggish here, the Indian -seemed to be content with the speed they were making. So quietly did the -canoe drift down the stream and so dark was the night that an observer -from the shore might easily have mistaken the ghostlike object for a -floating log. - -The motion of the canoe was so soothing and all about them everything -seemed so quiet and peaceful that the two brothers almost forgot the -danger they were in, and had nearly fallen asleep again when the grating -of the bow on a sandy beach quickly aroused them. - -“Out here,” whispered Deerfoot. - -A moment later the canoe had been hauled ashore and hidden, and without -further delay Joseph and Robert followed their Indian guide as he struck -out through the woods. - -On the river the night had seemed dark, but in the woods it was pitchy -black. The great overhanging trees shut out whatever feeble light the -stars might give, so that the forest was inky dark. As a consequence -progress was very slow. Deerfoot did not even for a moment relax his -caution; the three fugitives proceeded one behind the other and so close -that they could almost touch one another. Speed was sacrificed to -quietness and as a consequence it required the better part of an hour to -traverse this strip of woods, though it was only a half-mile wide. - -At last they emerged from the shelter of the forest onto the prairie. -Far ahead of them it stretched like the waters of a huge lake, -apparently boundless in its extent. Bushes formed the only cover on this -vast expanse of level country and both Joseph and Robert could not help -wondering what they should do if their enemies should discover them -while they were crossing this plain. There was no choice, however, if -they wished to reach Dixon’s Ferry, and the chance must be taken. - -Soon their progress was more rapid. Swiftly they walked and as the moon -broke from behind a cloud its rays made the three figures look like -ghosts, as, bending low, they hurried forward on their perilous journey. -Mile after mile they covered and scarcely a word had been spoken since -they left Deerfoot’s hut on the island in the swamp. Finally, however, -the Indian called a halt. - -“We rest here,” he exclaimed, pointing to a clump of bushes nearby as he -spoke. - -“Good,” said Joseph heartily. “That was a fast pace, Deerfoot.” - -“Huh,” grunted the Indian. “Must hurry.” - -“Are we going to travel all day, too?” inquired Robert. He had sunk to -the ground as soon as their march had ceased, and now, stripped of his -gun, he lay at full length upon the earth. - -“No,” said Deerfoot in response to Robert’s question. “We stay Scott’s -today.” - -“Scott’s!” exclaimed Robert. “Where is that?” - -“On prairie,” replied Deerfoot. “You know Scott’s.” - -“I do,” said Joseph, turning to his brother as he spoke. “Don’t you -remember that family that stopped at our house about five or six years -ago, Bob? They had come from Virginia and we heard later that they had -settled out on the prairie here. You must remember them.” - -“I sort of recall something about them,” agreed Robert. “How far from -here is their house, Deerfoot?” - -“Six miles.” - -“We’ll reach there early in the morning then, won’t we?” - -“Daylight,” said Deerfoot. “We stay here half-hour, then go on again.” - -“When ought we to reach Dixon’s Ferry?” asked Joseph. - -“Tomorrow, mebbe. Mebbe next day,” grunted Deerfoot, and rolling over on -his back the Indian immediately fell asleep. - -“Look at that,” exclaimed Joseph. “He is just like a dog and can go to -sleep whenever he feels like it. I wish I could do it.” - -“It’s all practice,” said Robert. “Deerfoot has been trained to it all -his life and that’s why he can do it now.” - -“Well, you and I had better try to rest, too,” said Joseph, as he -stretched himself on the ground beside Deerfoot. - -“Suppose we all go to sleep and no one wakes up in a half an hour?” - -“Don’t worry about that. Deerfoot will wake up all right.” - -The brothers lapsed into silence but they did not sleep. They had had -more rest than Deerfoot recently and were not in such need of sleep as -was their guide. In addition, the ground was hard and lumpy, and no -matter which way they adjusted themselves it seemed as if some -particularly hard bump was immediately underneath them. The ground was -hard and the grass was dry, for but little rain had fallen recently, and -this fact only served to make their beds more uncomfortable. They -obtained some rest, however, and were ready to start again when Deerfoot -gave the word. - -He opened his eyes presently and sat up. A moment later he sprang to his -feet, while the two brothers quickly followed his example. - -“Wind blow now,” grunted Deerfoot. - -“It is freshening,” agreed Joseph. “It’s right in our faces too.” - -It was at least two hours before the dawn when they once more resumed -their march. The wind blowing over the prairie was cool in their faces -and sweet with the odor of grass and the earth. Soon they would come to -the Scott’s home where they were confident that they would be heartily -welcomed and furnished with a sumptuous meal. Perhaps the Scotts would -join them in their flight to Dixon’s Ferry; at any rate they could be -warned of the presence of warlike Indians in the vicinity. These and -similar thoughts occupied the minds of the two brothers as they hurried -on their way. - -They had covered perhaps five of the six miles when Deerfoot suddenly -stopped. He bent slightly forward as if he was listening to something, -and imitating him Joseph and Robert both listened intently. No sound -came to them, however, but evidently the case was different with -Deerfoot. For some moments he remained in a listening attitude, and then -turned to his young friends. - -“War whoop,” he said quietly. - -“What!” exclaimed Joseph and Robert together. - -“War whoop,” repeated Deerfoot. “Black Hawk kill Scotts.” - -“Are you sure?” demanded Joseph. “Are you sure you hear war whoops?” - -“Ugh,” grunted Deerfoot. - -“This is terrible!” cried Joseph. “It seems as if we ought to have -warned them. What shall we do?” - -“How could we have warned them?” demanded Robert. “We’d have been killed -ourselves if we had tried to get here any sooner.” - -“But what shall we do?” - -“I don’t know. Ask Deerfoot.” - -The first faint streaks of dawn were now lighting up the sky. Little by -little objects began to be distinguishable and as Joseph turned to -Deerfoot for an answer to his question, the Indian pointed to something -he saw in the distance. Both boys instantly gazed in the direction he -indicated. - -“What is it?” demanded Joseph in a low voice. - -“Smoke.” - -“Sure enough,” cried Robert. “I see it. They are burning the Scotts’ -house just as they burned ours. They’re probably all dead by now.” - -Deerfoot was evidently uneasy. He shifted from one foot to the other and -glanced about him as if he was undecided what to do next. The three -fugitives simply stood and gazed at the distant column of smoke. - -“You can smell the smoke now,” exclaimed Robert suddenly. - -“Yes,” agreed Joseph. “The wind is coming this way.” - -“So fire,” said Deerfoot. - -“What do you mean by that?” asked Joseph. - -“Fire come this way, too.” - -“How will it?” - -“Prairie burn,” said Deerfoot quietly. - -“Do you think the prairie will catch on fire?” demanded Joseph in alarm. -“Do you think it is dry enough?” - -The two young pioneers gazed anxiously across the level plain to the -place where the fire was raging. They knew the horrors of a prairie fire -and they had no desire to be caught in the midst of one. - -“Sure prairie dry,” grunted Deerfoot. - -“We’d better leave here as fast as we can then, hadn’t we?” exclaimed -Joseph, now fully alarmed. As he spoke they could see the fire suddenly -spring up all about the former home of the Scotts. Fanned by the ever -freshening breeze it made its way swiftly along the ground and gathering -power as it ran, leaped into flame and started on its mad career. - -“Come,” said Deerfoot, and he turned about and ran. The smell of smoke -was now strong in their nostrils and this new foe, much more deadly than -the former ones, inspired the fugitives with a fear that seemed almost -to put wings on their feet. A deer suddenly passed them, wide-eyed and -snorting with fright; close behind it sped two gray wolves, the fact -that the deer was their quarry apparently being forgotten in the fear of -a common peril. - -To escape by running around the fire was out of the question. It not -only traveled straight ahead, but as it came it continually widened its -scope, the wall of flame and smoke growing broader and broader with -every moment that passed. - -The three men ran as they never had run before. Behind them roared the -racing fire, the noise striking terror to the heart of every living -thing within hearing distance. Side by side ran men and animals, their -ancient enmities forgotten, everyone aware of the fact that a foe more -powerful than any of them was at their backs. Water was what they all -sought, and unless they could reach it before the fire did they were -lost. - -Neither Joseph nor Robert knew of any water nearer than the stream they -had left the evening before. It was out of the question to think of -gaining that. Perhaps Deerfoot knew of some lake or pond on the prairie. -At any rate he could not stop to say so now, and meanwhile the fire -raged behind them, ever nearer and constantly increasing in fury. - - - - - CHAPTER VII - A NARROW ESCAPE - - -The heat from the fire now reached the fleeing men. All the animals had -far outdistanced them in their flight and these three were left behind -to continue the race. There was no doubt that the fire was gaining on -them rapidly. The air about them was full of smoke which choked and at -times nearly strangled the three fugitives. As far as either Joseph or -Robert could see, there was no place of refuge ahead of them and both -boys were now fully convinced that escape was well nigh impossible. They -were determined to die fighting, however, and to keep going until the -very last. - -Joseph glanced behind him as he ran. As he caught a glimpse of the great -wall of smoke and flame he could not help thinking, even in this moment -of extreme peril, of the pictures he used to see in the fairy books. The -prairie fire he likened to the great dragons that always guarded the -ancient treasures. Flame and smoke always issued from their mouths and -nostrils, and so tortured was the boy’s mind that he suddenly gained the -impression that he was being pursued by one of these dragons. Could he -escape the ravenous beast? That was the question. - -Like a race horse, the fire galloped forward over the prairie. The air -was now filled with sparks, while the roar of the seething conflagration -grew ever louder in the ears of the fleeing men. Ahead of them, perhaps -a quarter of a mile, appeared a row of bushes, and toward this spot -Deerfoot seemed to be making his way. Just why he did this neither -Robert nor Joseph knew, but they followed blindly the lead of their -guide. - -Robert was wondering if by any miracle they could escape the awful peril -now almost at their heels. Joseph was bent on escaping the dragon -roaring behind them, and somehow he felt that if they could reach the -clump of bushes they would be safe. Why he felt this way he could not -have explained. They were now within two hundred yards of the bushes, -while the fire was not more than twice that distance behind them. The -three fugitives were almost exhausted and the fire traveled with at -least double the speed that they could make. Consequently the race was -an even one. - -Neither boy had discarded his rifle. It was almost second nature for a -frontiersman to cling to his gun and these two boys were no exception to -the rule. Grimly they hung on to their rifles, and stumbling now and -then, they still plunged blindly forward. Nearer and nearer they came to -the bushes; closer and closer swept the fire. “Can we reach the bushes?” -thought Robert, and “Can we escape the dragon?” Joseph kept repeating -again and again to himself. - -A hundred yards in back of them roared the flames. Scarcely forty yards -ahead were the bushes. They were almost enveloped by the smoke and -sparks now and it was hard to see clearly. Robert obtained a glimpse of -what he took to be a gully just the other side of the bushes. To -Joseph’s distorted vision appeared a moat with a castle on the opposite -side; a guard stood at the portcullis ready to let it fall. Could he -slip through before the dragon seized him? - -Just in front of the two brothers was Deerfoot. By words, lost in the -roar of the fire, and by gestures he urged the boys on. Their eyes -smarted from the smoke and their hearts and lungs seemed to have reached -the bursting point, so great was the strain placed upon them. Blindly -they staggered forward, their rifles still clutched firmly in their -hands. They could see the bushes dimly, only a few steps in front of -them now, while the fire seemed almost at their side. - -Neither boy knew just why he was striving so hard to reach this row of -bushes. What protection could they afford? They were determined to reach -this spot, however, and with one last supreme effort they forced their -lagging feet forward. They could feel the bushes brush their clothes as -they came among them, and then the earth seemed suddenly to give way -under their feet and they plunged forward headlong. - -After a space of time that might have been minutes, or days for that -matter, as far as he at the moment was able to estimate passing time, -Joseph opened his eyes, for he had lost consciousness when he fell. He -was lying flat on his back while Deerfoot and Robert splashed water in -his face. - -“Where is the dragon?” he exclaimed, trying to rise. - -“What dragon?” asked Robert, smiling at his brother’s remark. - -“Why, the dragon that chased us of course.” - -“You mean the fire, I guess.” - -“It was a fire after all, wasn’t it?” exclaimed Joseph dazedly. “Somehow -I got the idea into my head that it was a dragon. I guess I was out of -my head.” - -“Well, that fire was much worse than a dragon or any other animal that -ever lived,” said Robert feelingly. “I tell you we had a narrow escape.” - -“Where are we anyway?” - -“Get up and look for yourself, if you feel strong enough.” - -Slowly and with difficulty Joseph raised himself to his feet. Glancing -about him he discovered that they were resting near the bank of a small -stream on both sides of which the ground rose abruptly ten or twelve -feet. So this was the place to which Deerfoot had led them. How lucky it -was that their Indian friend had been familiar enough with the country -to know of this place of refuge. As if in a dream Joseph passed his hand -across his forehead. It was wet and glancing at his fingers he -discovered that they were covered with blood. - -“What happened to me?” he demanded. - -“You cut your head on a sharp stone when you fell,” explained Robert. -“It’s only a scalp wound though and will soon heal up.” - -“Where is the fire?” - -“It jumped this gully, just after we jumped into it,” laughed Robert. -“You can hear it roaring on across the prairie now.” - -“Where’s my gun?” exclaimed Joseph suddenly. - -“There,” said Robert, pointing to Deerfoot. “Your gun landed in the -water and Deerfoot rescued it for you.” The Indian was busily engaged in -cleaning and drying Joseph’s rifle, but as Robert spoke he looked up -from his task. - -“Gun go off,” he said quietly. - -“What do you mean?” cried Joseph. - -“See,” said Deerfoot, at the same time pointing to his left sleeve. The -Indian’s hunting shirt showed a ragged hole, while on it were spots of -blood. - -“You mean it went off and hit you?” exclaimed Robert. “I didn’t know -that, Deerfoot. Why didn’t you tell me?” - -“Ugh,” grunted the Indian in his non-committal manner. - -“Let me see it,” demanded Joseph in alarm as he grasped Deerfoot by the -arm and pulled up his sleeve. The bullet had grazed the flesh of the -forearm, breaking the skin, but doing no serious hurt. - -“Whew!” gasped Joseph. “It’s a lucky thing it didn’t kill you, Deerfoot. -Certainly it isn’t my fault that you’re alive now. Why aren’t you angry -with me?” - -“No your fault,” replied the Indian, gazing into the eyes of his young -white friend. Deerfoot, like the rest of his race, disliked to display -his emotions if it could be avoided; but the Pottowattomie often had a -hard task to conceal his affection for the two young brothers. - -“What would we ever do if we lost you?” cried Joseph. “You’re all we -have left now, Deerfoot.” - -The Indian’s eyes grew moist at this remark and he turned quickly away. -He washed Joseph’s cut and his own wound and then bound a strip of -Joseph’s shirt around the cut in his head. He then scrambled up the side -of the gully to gaze out over the prairie. - -“What are we going to do now?” inquired Joseph a few moments later when -Deerfoot had returned to the spot where the two boys were seated. - -“We stay here today. Go on tonight,” replied Deerfoot. - -“Isn’t it safe to travel in the daylight?” - -“No,” answered Deerfoot. “Anyway, prairie too hot.” - -“That’s true,” exclaimed Robert. “I never thought of that. The grass and -bushes in the path of the fire must still be smouldering. We’d probably -burn holes in our moccasins if we started now.” - -“Mine can’t stand much either,” said Joseph, ruefully looking at his -feet. “We’ve given them some hard usage lately.” - -“I should say so.” - -Deerfoot completed the task of cleaning Joseph’s gun, and then holding -it under his arm he sauntered off along the bank of the stream. “Be back -soon,” he called as he disappeared from view around a projecting corner -of the bank. The two boys now left alone, sat on the ground and -discussed their experiences and what was ahead of them. - -“I wish we were at Dixon’s Ferry,” exclaimed Robert fervently. - -“No more than I do,” said Joseph. - -“I must confess,” continued Robert, “that I don’t like this business of -traveling all night and never knowing when an Indian may jump out from -behind some tree and tomahawk me.” - -“Well,” said Joseph, “when we reach Dixon’s Ferry we’ll be all right. I -wonder how many troops are there and what they intend to do?” - -“I’ve no idea. We’ll know when we get there.” - -“If that ever happens.” - -“You’re getting as bad as I am,” laughed Robert. “Let’s not be so -discouraged. Deerfoot will bring us through all right.” - -“Do you think he knows what is going on at Dixon’s Ferry?” - -“I don’t know. He wouldn’t tell us if he did.” - -“Evidently the Indians must have been causing trouble for some time,” -remarked Joseph. “Otherwise the governor wouldn’t have sent soldiers -after them as soon as this.” - -“That’s right, I guess,” Robert agreed. “Probably that band which -attacked us was only a detachment of the main body. It was undoubtedly -the same one that burned the Scotts’ home and started this fire, too.” - -“Probably it was. If we ever reach Dixon’s Ferry we’ll know it all. Do -you suppose they’ll let us enlist?” - -“They will if they have any volunteers. They’ll have a hard time keeping -me out, that’s sure.” - -“I wish—” began Joseph when the sound of a rifle shot suddenly cut him -short. Both boys sprang to their feet in alarm. The report came from the -direction in which Deerfoot had gone and instantly the two boys’ minds -were filled with visions of dreadful things happening to their friend. - -“Bring your rifle and come along,” cried Joseph as he began to run along -the bank of the stream. Robert was with him in an instant. - -“Hold back here, Joe,” he urged. “Let me go ahead; I’ve got the gun. -Take it slow, too.” - -Cautiously they approached the bend in the river, Robert slightly in the -lead. He was holding his rifle ready for instant use and both boys were -prepared for any emergency. As they turned in their course they spied -Deerfoot. He was approaching them, holding his rifle in one hand and an -enormous jack rabbit in the other. He could not repress a grin of -amusement as he saw the hostile attitude of his two young friends. - -“We thought you’d been attacked,” exclaimed Joseph heaving a great sigh -of relief. - -“Me shoot rabbit,” replied Deerfoot. - -“So we see,” remarked Joseph. “Don’t you think, though, that somebody -might have heard the shot and that it may get us into trouble?” - -“Nobody to hear shot,” said Deerfoot. “Nobody on prairie after fire.” - -“I guess that’s true enough,” laughed Robert. “I’m glad to see that old -rabbit, too. I suppose he was hiding from the fire as well as we were.” - -“Yes,” said Deerfoot. “He hid. Me find him though.” - -The two brothers set to work collecting such wood as they could find in -the gully and that had escaped the flames; Deerfoot at the same time was -busily engaged in skinning the rabbit. - -In a short time a fire had been kindled and the odor of roast rabbit -filled the air. The meat was delicious, somewhat similar to chicken in -flavor, and soon only bones remained to testify that a rabbit had once -been near that spot. - -Frequently Deerfoot scanned the horizon with a watchful eye and the day -was spent in talk and rest. As darkness once more stole over the land, -Deerfoot gave the word and again the three fugitives set out on their -tramp to Dixon’s Ferry. - - - - - CHAPTER VIII - AN INDIAN LEGEND - - -Two days later they reached their destination. The journey had been a -hard one and it was with a great feeling of relief that the three -wearied travelers entered the small settlement on Rock River at Dixon’s -Ferry. On their way they had endured many hardships. Driving rainstorms -on the prairies had drenched them to the skin and often they had been -forced to flounder their way through deep marshes and swamps. - -They had crossed the old Sac trail to Canada on their journey. This -tribe, years before, had made its way into Illinois and Wisconsin -through the lower Michigan peninsula, its original home being north of -the Great Lakes. Deerfoot explained this fact to his young friends, who -evinced much interest at the sight of the old Indian highway. From Black -Hawk’s village on the Mississippi it ran east to the Illinois River -which it crossed several miles north of Hennepin where the river turns -almost at right angles. Thence it led along the river to the shores of -Lake Michigan and then continued northward into Canada. - -At Dixon’s Ferry there was much bustle and excitement. Over three -hundred men were gathered there under the command of Majors Isaiah -Stillman and David Bailey. All volunteers they were and made a reckless, -dare-devil force. They had been resting several days and were all -impatient at the delay. They were equipped with an abundance of -ammunition and supplies, and could see no reason why they should not be -allowed to start at once in pursuit of Black Hawk and his band of -warriors. - -The two brothers and their Pottowattomie ally were enthusiastically -received by these men, especially so when Joseph told of the massacre of -his family, and how eager they were to avenge it. Fresh clothes had been -at once provided for the new members of the battalion, for they had lost -no time in enlisting. A tent was assigned to them and a hearty meal -provided. - -“I don’t like this delay,” exclaimed one of the volunteers, Walter Hood -by name, to Joseph and Robert. They were seated just outside of the tent -occupied by the two brothers and Deerfoot. The Indian had gone off -somewhere and Hood, an old trapper, had stopped to chat with the boys. -“No sir,” he repeated. “I don’t like this delay. I want to be on the -trail of them redskins and git the job over with.” - -“What’s the reason for the delay?” inquired Joseph. - -“We’re waiting for more soldiers, that’s what it is. There’s a whole lot -of them on their way here now, and they ought to reach here at almost -any minute. I wish we could go along without ’em.” - -“How many soldiers are on their way here, Mr. Hood?” asked Robert. - -“Sixteen hundred or so, but don’t you call me Mister Hood. My name is -‘Walt.’ That is what I’ve been called all my life and I don’t intend to -change now.” - -“All right,” laughed Robert. “I’d be very glad to call you ‘Walt.’” - -“And you, too,” exclaimed the old trapper turning to Joseph. “I don’t -want no funny business from you either.” - -“I swear,” agreed Joseph solemnly, at the same time raising his right -hand. “Tell us about these troops though,” he added. - -“Well,” said Walt, “there’s about sixteen hundred of them as I told you. -Of that number nearly thirteen hundred is on horseback. Governor -Reynolds is with the troops, who are commanded by Generals Atkinson and -Whiteside. All this news I got from a messenger who arrived here this -morning.” - -“Where are they coming from?” asked Joseph. - -“From Fort Armstrong. That’s down on the Mississippi you know, right -close to Black Hawk’s village and right near Rock Island, too.” - -“We’ll have about two thousand men in a few days then, won’t we?” -exclaimed Joseph. “I don’t believe Black Hawk has half that many, do -you?” - -“I don’t think so,” agreed Walt. “That’s why I want to get started now -and not wait for the others. We’ve got enough men here now to lick all -the Indians in North America as it is.” - -“That’s the way my father used to talk,” remarked Robert quietly. “It is -a mistake to think that way in my opinion.” - -“Please don’t ever say such a thing before Deerfoot, anyway,” urged -Joseph. “He is one of the finest men that ever lived and I wouldn’t -offend him for anything in the world.” - -“I’ll remember that,” Walt promised. “All Indians aren’t bad anyway,” he -added so seriously that both boys laughed. - -“Did you ever know any well?” asked Robert. - -“Yes, indeed. I trapped all one winter with an Ojibway up in Canada. He -was a fine fellow and amusing, too. At night we used to sit around our -fire and smoke and once in a while I could get him to talk. He knew all -the Indian stories and legends from start to finish and they were mighty -interesting, too.” - -“Tell us some of them,” urged Joseph eagerly. - -“Well, now,” said Walt slowly. “I don’t know as I can remember them. -Certainly I can’t tell ’em the way he did.” - -“That doesn’t make any difference,” exclaimed Joseph. “Tell them as best -you can and that will be good enough for us. Isn’t that so, Bob?” - -“I should say so,” agreed Robert heartily. “I love those Indian -legends.” - -“All right then,” said Walt. “I’ll try my best. Did you ever hear the -legend of ‘The Lone Lightning’?” - -“Never,” cried both boys. “Tell us that one,” urged Joseph eagerly. - -The old trapper filled his pipe deliberately. When it was lighted and he -had settled himself comfortably against the trunk of a tree and taken a -few big puffs, he began his story. - -“Once upon a time there was a little orphan boy. He lived with his uncle -who treated him very badly and gave him but little to eat. As a result -the boy pined away and was thin and slight and never grew much. This -treatment went on for a long time and finally the uncle pretended to be -greatly ashamed of the way he had abused his nephew. He commenced to -feed the boy all he could eat in order to fatten him and to make up for -the hard usage he had received. The uncle’s real plan, however, was to -kill the boy by overfeeding him. - -“He told his wife to give the boy plenty of bear’s meat, especially the -fat, as that was supposed to be the best part. They used to force food -on the boy and one day they nearly choked him to death by trying to cram -it down his throat. The boy finally escaped from the lodge, however, and -fled into the woods. He did not know his way about and soon got lost. -Night fell and the boy was afraid. He climbed high into the branches of -a tall pine tree so that the wild animals could not reach him and while -up there he fell asleep. While he was asleep he had a dream. - -“A person appeared to him from the sky and said, ‘My poor little lad, I -pity you, and the bad usage you have received from your uncle has led me -to visit you; follow me, and step in my tracks.’ Immediately the boy -awoke and he rose up and followed his guide, mounting higher and higher -into the air until finally he reached the sky. Here he was given twelve -arrows and told to go to the northern skies where there was a great many -manitous or spirits whom he must try to ambush and kill. - -“So the lad set out and finally came to that part of the sky. He shot -eleven of his twelve arrows in an attempt to kill the manitous, but he -was unsuccessful. Every time he shot an arrow there was a long and -solitary streak of lightning in the sky; then all became clear again and -not a cloud or spot could be seen. The boy now had but one arrow left -and he held this a long time while he searched all about to spy the -manitous he was after. This was not an easy task, however, for these -manitous were very cunning and could change their form instantly. They -feared the boy’s arrows, for they were magic, and had been given to him -by a good spirit. They had power to kill the manitous if only they were -aimed right. - -“Finally the boy discovered the chief of the manitous. He drew his last -arrow, aimed it carefully and let it fly. He had directed his aim -straight at the heart of his enemy, but before the arrow could reach him -the manitou changed himself into a rock. Into this rock the last magic -arrow plunged deep and stuck fast. - -“‘Now your gifts are all expended,’ cried the enraged manitou, ‘and I -will make an example of your audacity and pride of heart for lifting -your bow against me.’ So saying he suddenly changed the boy into the -‘Nazliek-a-wa-wa-sun,’ or Lone Lightning which anyone can see in the -northern sky even to this day.” - -The old trapper ceased speaking and relighted his pipe which had gone -out during the course of his tale. Both boys remained silent for some -minutes. - -“That was a strange legend,” remarked Joseph at last. - -“I should say so,” echoed Robert. “I liked it though. I like all these -stories of Indians and what they believed.” - -“So do I,” exclaimed Walt. “Indians are a simple-minded people in a -great many ways. Their legends mean a lot to them, too.” - -“Tell me,” said Joseph. “What do they mean by ‘Lone Lightning’?” - -“The northern lights, I suppose,” answered Walt. “At least that is what -I have always taken that story to mean. If you’ve ever seen them you -know how on clear, cold nights they flash out all over the heavens. You -see the boy’s last arrow remained stuck in the rock, so that the light -from it will always be there. The other eleven just vanished into space, -I suppose.” - -“By manitou you mean a spirit, don’t you?” inquired Robert. - -“Yes,” said Walt. “That’s just what I mean. You see there are good -spirits and evil spirits and those up in the north were evil. The Great -Manitou is the Great Spirit whom all the Indians worship. He is chief of -all the manitous.” - -“You know lots more legends, don’t you?” asked Joseph eagerly. - -“Why, yes,” replied Walt, “I do know a good many.” - -“Well, we’re always willing to listen to them,” said Joseph. - -“I could hear another right now,” suggested Robert hopefully. “Would you -mind very much telling us one, Walt?” - -“Not at all, except for the fact that from the looks of things I think -perhaps our reinforcements are arriving.” - -“Something is happening all right!” exclaimed Joseph excitedly. - -All three immediately sprang to their feet and hurried to the western -side of the camp whither everyone else seemed to be bound. Everybody was -excitedly calling to everybody else and all were in high spirits at the -arrival of the troops. - -“Perhaps we can get started now,” said Walt hopefully as he hurried -along beside the two boys. “Our waiting days are about over, I guess, -and within twenty-four hours I think we’ll be on on our way up the old -Rock River. Black Hawk had better move on before we get very far, too, I -can tell you.” - -Everybody in the settlement was gathered together in one spot, the -center of attention being a mud-spattered messenger who was talking to -Major Stillman. The boys could not hear what he said but as they came -closer to the crowd the messenger turned and pointed. Over the crest of -a nearby hill suddenly appeared a man on horseback. Then another came -into view, then another, and still another until the whole hill was -covered by the band of approaching horsemen. - - - - - CHAPTER IX - IN CAMP - - -“Just look at them!” exclaimed Joseph. “There must be a thousand of -them.” - -“Sixteen hundred you said, didn’t you, Walt?” inquired Robert turning to -their friend as he spoke. - -“Not mounted, I think,” replied the trapper. “I guess the rest are -coming up the river in boats and won’t be here for some time.” - -“Well, with this crowd we ought to be able to subdue Black Hawk all -right,” exclaimed Joseph eagerly. “Do you suppose we’ll have to wait for -the rest of the troops?” - -“I hope not,” said Walt. “Here it is the twelfth of May already and we -should have had the whole thing over with by this time, in my opinion.” - -As the three volunteers stood talking the horsemen rode into camp. -General Whiteside was in command and it was soon learned that, as Walt -had said, the remainder of the force was coming up the river under the -lead of General Atkinson. General Whiteside had previously been in -command of frontier rangers and had earned the reputation of being a -splendid Indian fighter. - -“Any regulars with you?” inquired Walt of one of the men who had just -arrived. - -“No,” replied the men, “we’re all volunteers. General Atkinson is -following with them. He has about four hundred regular infantry and some -three hundred volunteer footmen. He is coming up the river by boat with -cannon, provision and most of the baggage.” - -“When did they start?” asked Robert. - -“Three days ago; the same time we did.” - -“From Fort Armstrong?” Robert inquired. - -“Yes,” said the soldier. “The people on the river are having a bad time -of it, too, I’m afraid. The water is very high and it will be hard work -to make their way against the current. There are so many rapids, too.” - -“Did you find the traveling bad?” Walt asked. - -“Yes, quite bad. We came slowly, too, and made a stop at the Prophet’s -town as well. It was absolutely deserted.” - -“Who is the Prophet?” questioned Robert. - -“His name is Wabokieshiek,” explained Walt. “He is the man who has been -urging Black Hawk on all this time. You know all Indians are -superstitious and these medicine men and prophets exert great -influence.” - -“The Prophet has been encouraging Black Hawk to make war you mean?” -inquired Joseph. - -“Yes,” Walt answered, “that’s just what he has been doing. As I -understand it he has promised Black Hawk large reinforcements from the -Winnebagos, Pottowattomies and Kickapoos and that when he has all their -help he will surely beat the whites.” - -“The Prophet probably lied,” Robert exclaimed. - -“Of course he did,” agreed Walt. “I don’t think that those other tribes -will help the Sacs one bit. Certainly they won’t if they learn how many -men we have here.” - -“I know one Pottowattomie who won’t join him anyway,” said Robert. - -“Who is that?” - -“Deerfoot.” - -“By the way, where is he?” exclaimed Joseph suddenly. “I haven’t seen -him in a long time.” - -“Perhaps he has already joined Black Hawk,” said Walt, and he laughed in -an insinuating manner as he spoke. - -“Don’t you say that!” cried Joseph hotly. “Deerfoot is the best friend -that Bob and I have left on earth and I don’t want him slandered.” - -“No, sir!” chimed in Robert. “If ever there was a man more faithful than -Deerfoot, I’ve never seen him or heard of him. You may take our word for -it that he can always be counted on.” - -“He certainly has two loyal supporters all right,” laughed Walt. “If you -boys are so sure he’s all right, I guess I’ll have to believe you.” - -“You’d better,” exclaimed Joseph. “Now let’s go look for him,” he added. - -Their soldier friend had disappeared. His horse needed care and he had -gone to report at headquarters and receive his orders. General -Whiteside’s division had but a scanty store of supplies and were forced -to depend upon those which had been collected at Dixon’s Ferry. -Fortunately they were believed to be fully adequate. - -“There is a lot of feeling among our men about joining General -Whiteside, you know,” said Walt as the three volunteers walked along. - -“You mean among those who were here before he arrived?” Joseph asked. - -“Yes, I don’t care much about it either. We want to fight in our own -way, and, personally, I don’t see why we should be tied down to the -regular levies. I had hoped we’d go on without them.” - -“We could act as scouts or rangers,” Robert suggested. - -“That’s just my idea,” Walt exclaimed. “We could push on ahead and see -what is going on and act independently of the others. There are three -hundred and more of us and that seems to me to be enough.” - -“We’ll hear something soon anyway, I guess,” said Joseph. - -“I think so,” agreed Walt. “I must leave you for a while now,” he added. -“I’ll drop around to your tent a little later.” - -The two brothers continued on their way. It was an interesting and -exciting experience for them to see and feel the bustle and hustle of a -military camp and to know that they were part of it. Horses were -tethered under all the trees, tents sprang up on all sides as if by -magic, while everywhere men were busy with the thousand and one duties -of camp life. - -Soon the boys came to their own tent and entered. Deerfoot, however, was -not there and this fact caused the brothers no little worry. - -“Where do you suppose he is?” said Joseph anxiously. - -“I wish I knew,” replied Robert. “I don’t see how anything could happen -to him right here in camp though.” - -“Unless there are a lot more people like Walt who think all Indians are -bad. Most of these men do think that, too, I’m afraid. Perhaps if they -saw Deerfoot roving around here they might lock him up or something. -Someone is almost sure to insult him.” - -“That’s true,” said Robert. “Suppose we go out and look for him. He may -be in trouble and need help.” - -They stepped outside the tent, and immediately their gaze fell upon a -sight that not only allayed their fears but made them almost dance with -delight. Deerfoot was approaching the tent, astride the back of one -horse, while he was leading two others by their bridles. He rode -beautifully and seemed almost a part of his mount as he cantered up to -the place where the two brothers were standing. - -“Where did you get the horses?” cried Joseph as Deerfoot pulled up his -mount and came to a stop in front of the tent. - -“Major Stillman,” said the Indian. - -“He gave them to you?” exclaimed Robert. - -“One for each,” replied Deerfoot. - -“Say,” cried Robert excitedly, “that is what I call pretty fine! Where -are the saddles though, Deerfoot?” - -“No more saddles,” he answered. “Me lucky to get horses.” - -“I should say so,” said Joseph. “What do you want of a saddle anyway? -You might think you didn’t know how to ride a horse the way you talk. We -have bridles and a blanket. Isn’t that enough?” - -“It is for me. I was just asking on your account,” and Robert winked at -Deerfoot as he spoke. Horsemanship was a part of the education the boys -had acquired from their Indian teacher and was a lesson they had learned -as well as they had the others he had taught them. That was saying a -great deal, too, for Deerfoot was a master who insisted that his pupils -should always learn their lessons well. - -“As though I couldn’t beat you riding any time!” retorted Joseph hotly. -“I leave it to Deerfoot to decide which is the better rider.” - -The question was not settled, however, for at this moment Walt come -riding up to the place where they were standing in front of their tent. - -“Those your horses?” he asked. - -“Yes,” said Joseph. “Deerfoot got them for us from Major Stillman.” - -“Good for him,” exclaimed Walt heartily. “I tried to get some from him -myself, but he said he had no more horses. Deerfoot must have influence -with the major.” - -“Me get last t’ree horses,” announced Deerfoot. - -“That’s fine!” said Walt heartily. “You’ll all need horses and need them -soon, too.” - -“What do you mean by soon?” Robert asked curiously. - -“Tomorrow morning.” - -“What!” exclaimed the two young soldiers in one breath. - -“We start after Black Hawk the first thing tomorrow,” said Walt, smiling -at the effect of his announcement. - -Deerfoot made no sign and the expression of his face remained the same, -but into his eyes crept a light that showed he, too, was glad to be on -the trail of Black Hawk. Unconsciously his hand fingered the knife in -his belt. - -“Tell us about it,” urged Joseph. “Who is going and how does it happen -that we start before General Atkinson arrives?” - -“Only the ones who were here before General Whiteside arrived are to -go,” Walt explained. “That means us, of course. Major Stillman is to be -in command and we are to act as a scouting party.” - -“Someone must have overheard what we said this afternoon,” laughed -Joseph. - -“Seems so, doesn’t it?” Walt agreed. “Anyhow we’re going and I must say -nothing has pleased me so much in a long while. We’re off at last and we -won’t have all those others bother us and interfere with our plans. I -feel just as if I was starting on a big lark.” - -“Tomorrow’s the thirteenth, isn’t it?” inquired Robert solemnly. - -“So it is,” laughed Walt. “Don’t worry about that though. I’m not -superstitious and you needn’t be, either. No harm will come to us on -this trip and the only results of it will be a lot of fun for us and a -few less braves for Black Hawk.” - -“I hope you’re right,” said Robert. “I’ve always had a queer feeling -about the thirteenth though. I wish we weren’t going until the day after -tomorrow or were going to start tonight.” - -“That’s what would just suit me,” exclaimed Walt. “I’d like to start -tonight, all right. We won’t find Black Hawk tomorrow probably so there -will be no fighting on the thirteenth anyway, and that will kill all the -bad luck you’re afraid of.” - -“No, it won’t,” protested Robert. “The point is that we start on the -thirteenth. That is what counts.” - -“Well, I wouldn’t let it worry me,” laughed Walt. “I must be off now,” -he added. “I’ll see you at daylight tomorrow.” - -He slapped his horse on its flank and galloped away. Robert and Joseph -drew lots as to which should have first choice of horses. Joseph won and -made his selection, if such a thing was possible. The horses were both -splendid animals and apparently there was little to choose between them. -At any rate, both boys were very well satisfied with their mounts. - -Darkness was now coming on and dinner time drew near. While the meal was -being prepared the boys watered and fed their new mounts. Then they -rubbed them down and tethered them for the night. This done, they -quickly turned their attention to the food which Deerfoot had prepared. - -“It will seem good to be the one doing the chasing for a while, won’t -it?” remarked Joseph when their meal was over. “I was getting sort of -tired of running away all the time and I’ll be glad to see someone else -run for a change.” - -“Yes, indeed,” agreed Robert heartily. “And when we get astride those -horses whoever gets away from us will have to be pretty fast.” - -“The Indians will be mounted too, won’t they, Deerfoot?” inquired Joseph -of their comrade. - -“All ride,” grunted Deerfoot. “Good horses, too.” - -“That’s all right,” said Robert confidently. “They won’t be as good as -ours and we’ll catch them all right.” - -For some time they sat and discussed what was to happen on the morrow, -and then they prepared to turn in. A short time later they were sound -asleep, and, strange to say, both boys dreamed of desperate encounters -with Black Hawk and his band. None of the struggles ever came to a -definite end, however, and if such things were really to happen the next -few days would have to disclose the result of these combats. - - - - - CHAPTER X - ON THE MARCH - - -“Time to start, Bob!” - -The first faint streaks of light were illuminating the eastern sky as -Joseph shook his brother and roused him from his slumbers. - -“All ready,” cried Robert, wide awake at once. Life in the woods and on -the prairies teaches one to waste little time either in going to sleep -or in getting up in the morning. - -“Deerfoot is looking after the horses,” said Joseph. “As soon as we have -washed we’ll be ready for a bite of breakfast and then we must join the -others. They’ll start soon, I think.” - -Many of their comrades fell in with the two boys as they made their way -down to the bank of the stream. There was much laughter and much -splashing and puffing as the men drove the last cobwebs of sleep from -their brains. Everyone was in high spirits. They all seemed to look upon -the affair in the nature of a great picnic, instead of actual warfare. - -The two brothers could not help being affected by the hilarity. Robert -was especially susceptible. He was more impulsive than Joseph and was -readily swayed by his ever changing moods. One moment he was discouraged -and gloomy and then a few moments later all his troubles were forgotten -and his spirits rose accordingly. - -“Isn’t this fun, Joe?” he exclaimed enthusiastically, as they stood on -the shore and watched the antics of their comrades. - -“It is now,” agreed Joseph, who was of a quieter and more conservative -nature. “But how long it will continue to be fun, I don’t know.” - -“Don’t be so discouraged,” laughed Robert. - -“I’m not discouraged,” said Joseph quietly. “I can’t help but think -though that some of these men take this affair too lightly.” - -“Not at all,” Robert persisted. “Get into the spirit of the thing and -forget your troubles for a while.” - -“I thought you were worrying about this being the thirteenth of the -month,” observed Joseph, a half smile on his lips. - -“That’s so,” exclaimed Robert suddenly. “I had forgotten all about that -for a moment,” and immediately his high spirits departed and he became -quiet and thoughtful. “Let’s go back to the tent,” he urged a moment -later, and all the way back he was silent and was evidently troubled. - -Joseph said nothing, but he was secretly amused at the sudden change in -his younger brother. He had seen just such sudden transformations in him -before, however, and he knew that at any moment the pendulum might swing -back and Robert become cheerful again. - -“Dinner ready,” announced Deerfoot, as they came to the tent. The Indian -called every meal dinner, no matter what time of day it happened to be. - -“All right, Deerfoot,” exclaimed Robert, his spirits reviving already at -the sight of food. “We are ready, too.” - -No time was lost in disposing of the meal the Pottowattomie had cooked -and well it was that there was no delay, for hardly had they finished -when the bugle sounded. Joseph and Robert quickly grasped their rifles -and after assuring themselves that the guns were in proper order and -that their supply of ammunition was sufficient, sprang upon the backs of -their horses. The animals had been used but little recently and as a -result of their good care they were in fine fettle. It was some moments -before the two young volunteers could calm down their mounts -sufficiently to enable them to join the others. - -Finally, however, they succeeded in obtaining control of the beasts and -in company with Deerfoot cantered to the place where the men were -forming. Nearly three hundred and fifty there were all together and the -command to advance was soon given. Major Stillman was at their head and -they trotted out of Dixon’s Ferry spurred on by the cheers of General -Whiteside’s men who were left behind. - -Walt had now joined his two young friends and their Indian ally. He rode -side by side with them and laughed and joked continually. - -“Good-bye,” he called gaily to an acquaintance, who stood nearby. “Sorry -you aren’t going with us.” - -“You’re lucky dogs,” was the man’s only comment on Walt’s remark. - -“That’s the way I feel about it myself,” exclaimed Walt to his -companions. “We’re going out to have some fun and those poor fellows -have to stay at home. We’ll probably finish the whole business up and -not give them a chance to do anything.” - -“It’s the thirteenth today, don’t forget that,” warned Robert. - -Walt only laughed and soon dropped behind to chat with some friend of -his in the company. The advance was most disorderly. No regular -formation was attempted and the men were soon scattered and spread over -a considerable space. The only apparent plan seemed to be to follow the -course of the Rock River and this was done, each man practically acting -upon his own responsibility. They proceeded leisurely, Major Stillman -apparently being in no hurry. A stop was made for dinner in the middle -of the day and that night camp was pitched in a grove of oak trees not -far from the bank of the river. - -Fires were soon burning brightly and the smell of food cooking reminded -every one just how hungry he was. A day on horseback produced a hearty -appetite and full justice was done to the meal. Many of these -backwoodsmen were excellent cooks too. They were in the habit of often -preparing their own meals and had really become expert in the art of -plain cooking. - -“This is what I like!” exclaimed Robert when the meal was over and they -were seated about the camp fire. At this particular blaze were eight or -ten men gathered and many similar groups were to be seen on all sides of -them. The men were rough and hearty frontiersmen and it was a great -treat to the two brothers to listen to some of the tales that were told -of hunting and fishing adventures. - -“So you like this, do you, Red?” said one of the men. - -“You mean me?” demanded Robert quickly. - -“I should say I did,” laughed the man, a big, burly trapper. “I never -saw any hair redder’n yours in my life.” - -Everyone present laughed at this remark, much to Robert’s displeasure. -What irritated him most of all, however, was the fact that his brother -laughed much louder than anyone else. - -“Look here!” said Robert angrily. “You’d better not laugh at me. If I -had hair the color of yours I think I’d keep pretty quiet. I’d rather -have red hair than tow-colored.” - -“Oh, I don’t know about that,” said Joseph, still laughing at the -allusion to his brother’s hair. “Mine suits me first rate.” - -“You’re easily pleased,” muttered Robert, but no one heard him. - -“It’s too bad Deerfoot hasn’t blue hair,” said the man who had begun the -conversation. “Then we’d have the American colors, red, white and blue. -We could put these three up in front for a flag.” - -Fresh laughter broke out at this remark and both boys joined in it now. -Everything was said in a spirit of fun, and Robert was quick to realize -how silly it was to lose his temper. It is no fun to tease a man who -laughs at your teasing. - -“Let’s stop talking about hair and hear something about pelts,” said -Walt. “Tell us how you got those three panther skins I saw down at your -cabin last month.” - -He addressed his remarks to the man who had called Robert “Red.” This -trapper was evidently a great favorite with the men and one whom they -looked up to and respected. His name was John Mason and he had -originally come from Massachusetts. That is, he had left that part of -the country when he was only five years old, and had migrated west with -his parents. They had settled in Wisconsin and there he had learned the -business of trapping and had followed it ever since he had been old -enough to engage in it. - -“Did I tell you the experience my father had?” inquired Mason. “How he -was lost in the woods soon after we came west?” - -“Not that I remember,” Walt replied, and the others seated about the -fire shook their heads in token that they had never heard the tale -either. - -“Well,” began Mason, “it was soon after we had arrived from the East. Of -course I don’t remember it very well, but I’ve often heard my father -relate the story. It seems we had arrived at our future home in the -summer time; my father and mother, myself and my father’s dog, a noble -and intelligent animal he called Robin, because when he was a puppy he -had once caught a young bird of that species. We settled down near the -bank of a small stream and my father set to work clearing a space in the -forest for us, and in building a house for us to live in. - -“It was no easy task for one man, equipped only with an axe, to level -much of the forest round about, and in addition to that we had a home to -build. My mother could help some, however, and together they finally -erected a cabin. It was small, but it was snug and promised good shelter -against the blasts of winter. It took some time to do all this though, -and cold weather was at hand by the time the cabin was completed and a -fair-sized space had been cleared. - -“Winter approached and we had a home, and the beginnings of a farm. It -had taken a good many weeks to acquire these things, however, and my -father had had time for little else. Consequently our store of meat for -the long, cold months was very low. Father had had little chance to -hunt. He set out one morning, his gun over his shoulder, Robin at his -heels and a small supply of jerked venison in his game bag. He was in -hopes of bagging a buck, which would feed us for a long time. - -“Several miles he walked through the forest. Usually game abounded in -this region, undisturbed except by an occasional Indian hunter. This -time, however, father saw nothing except a flock of wild turkeys which -flew away before he could get a shot. All the morning and into the -afternoon he tramped through the woods and over the hills. Along toward -the middle of the afternoon he suddenly spied a large stag. Ordering -Robin to follow ‘at heel’ he crept cautiously along in an attempt to get -a good shot at the deer. - -“Just before he came within range, however, the buck suddenly took -fright and bounded away. My father followed his trail eagerly, mile -after mile. Night was almost at hand when he discovered his game -standing on a large rock, his figure clearly outlined against the sky. -Closer and closer father crept and finally raised his gun and fired. The -deer leaped high into the air as the shot rang out and fell to the earth -dead. Father ran forward joyfully and a few moments later had the buck -on his back and was headed for home. - -“For the first time he noticed that snow had begun to fall. It was the -first snow of the winter and soon covered the ground and the branches of -the nearby trees. Father had traveled many miles that day and now was -far from home. He knew the country only slightly and now that the snow -was on the ground it was hard to recognize landmarks. Things look vastly -different in winter from what they do in summer and father had never -seen this part of the country in its winter coat. Meanwhile, the storm -constantly increased in fury. - -“On and on father plodded. The stag was across his shoulder and Robin -followed whimpering at his heels. Father was worried now; he was fast -tiring and he felt more sure every moment that he had lost his way. -Night now covered the land and the snow drifted in like some great white -robe. It was bitterly cold, and constantly growing colder. The thought -of his wife and boy was all that kept him going. His strength was fast -waning, however, and he finally succumbed to the irresistible desire he -felt to lie down in the snow and go to sleep. He dropped his burden and -fell forward, almost too weak to move.” - -“Did he die?” demanded Walt as the story teller stopped speaking. - -“No, indeed,” replied Mason. “Here comes the remarkable part of the -story. When father sank to the ground Robin immediately started for -home. How he knew where it was and how to get there I never could see. -At any rate my mother heard him whine and scratch at the door. It was -after midnight and she was nearly distracted by fear and anxiety. She -could easily see by Robin’s actions that he wished her to follow him, -and putting on a great fur coat she went quickly out into the blinding -storm. - -“Urged on by Robin’s eagerness to have her hurry she floundered and -ploughed her way through the drifts until she came to the place where -father was lying. He was unconscious when she reached him. My mother was -a large woman and very strong for one of her sex. Lucky for all of us -that she was, too, for it was necessary for her practically to carry my -father all the way back to the cabin, nearly a half-mile. You see, -father had almost reached home himself though he hadn’t known it. Well, -she finally got him there and after hours of hard work revived him. For -many days he lay sick, but with mother’s constant care he finally -recovered entirely. He also fetched the stag home when he became able to -go out. There it had lain covered deep in the snow, frozen stiff and as -sound as ever. - -“I just told this little story,” concluded Mason, “to show you how hard -some of us worked for our homes. Now that we have them we don’t want the -Indians to take them away from us.” - -A cheer greeted this remark. These men were always willing to applaud -anything that meant trouble for the Indians. - -“That was a good story, Mason,” remarked Walt a moment later. “It shows -you had a wonderful mother, doesn’t it?” - -“It does indeed,” agreed Mason. “It shows father had a wonderful dog, -too. Without him my mother would never have had the chance to do what -she did.” - -“Quite right,” exclaimed Walt heartily and murmurs of approval were -heard on all sides. - -“Yes, sir,” continued Mason. “My father loved old Robin almost as much -as he did me. I love dogs myself and I wouldn’t be without one for -anything. Some men are bad and some are good, but I tell you all dogs -are good. You can believe everything they tell you.” - -“Gracious, I’ve talked a lot tonight,” he added laughingly. “I’m going -to stop now though and turn in. Tomorrow may be a hard day. Good night, -Red, and everybody else,” he called as he disappeared into the darkness. - - - - - CHAPTER XI - THE FLAG OF TRUCE - - -At the first sign of dawn the forces were once more on the march. The -men had a quieter and sterner air than they had manifested the preceding -day. The prevailing opinion was that before the sun set that night they -would come in contact with their foes, and in spite of the open -assertions of the men that it was all a “picnic,” this fact made them -more serious. - -The country consisted of open, rolling prairies, frequent groves of -trees and occasional swamps. The men rode along in a careless manner, -chatting with one another and boasting of what they would do to the -hostile Sacs when they met them. Progress was slow on account of the -disorderly march of the volunteers and it was late afternoon before they -reached the vicinity of Sycamore Creek where they intended to camp. This -place was hardly more than thirty miles distant from Dixon’s Ferry. - -“We’re going to pitch camp there,” said Walt to Joseph and Robert, at -the same time indicating a small clump of open timber some distance -ahead of them. - -“That looks like a good place,” remarked Joseph approvingly. - -“It is,” agreed Walt. “You see it is entirely surrounded by open prairie -and anyone who tries to attack us there will be completely exposed while -we will have the protection of the trees.” - -“Do you think Black Hawk would dare attack us?” demanded Robert. - -“I don’t know,” said Walt in reply. “It all depends on how many men he -has. I doubt if he’d try such a thing though.” - -“Where is he now?” inquired Robert, somewhat alarmed by the prospect -Walt had intimated. - -“Somewhere near here, I think,” replied Walt. “He is supposed to be on -the other side of Sycamore Creek with the Pottowattomies, trying to get -them to join him in his war. You’d better watch your friend Deerfoot, -too,” he added in a low voice. - -Robert’s face flushed almost as red as his hair at this remark. “Don’t -you ever dare say a thing like that again!” he exclaimed hotly. “If you -do, I’ll refuse to be responsible for what happens to you.” - -“And I’ll help you, Bob,” said his brother quietly. “Now look here, -Walt,” he continued. “Bob and I like you very much and all that. We -don’t mind your fooling, but we do mind your remarks about our friend. -We told you that once before and this time we mean it.” - -Walt looked in surprise at the two brothers. That they were in deadly -earnest there could be no doubt. Robert was so angry that he could -scarcely talk; he merely puffed and gasped with rage. His face was red -and Joseph’s was white, but it was a question which one was more angry. - -“Whew!” whistled Walt in astonishment at this outburst. He saw, however, -that if he continued his remarks he might be subjected to physical -violence and he wisely refrained from saying more. He quickly changed -the subject. - -“Well, we’ll be making camp in a moment,” he said lightly. - -“I’m glad of it,” remarked Joseph. “My horse is tired and so am I. He -hasn’t been used much lately, I guess, and is soft.” He was willing to -forget the recent unpleasantness and be friends again, but Robert was -not so easily pacified. His face was still flushed and he rode forward -in silence. Joseph glanced at him and smiled. He admired his brother’s -courage and he also knew that his anger would soon disappear. Robert was -one who never let the sun go down upon his wrath, simply because he -could not stay angry for that length of time. - -Soon they arrived at their destination. The men quickly dismounted and -after tethering their horses, they busied themselves with preparations -for making camp. Meanwhile, guards were stationed all around the grove -to watch for possible signs of the enemy. The men’s good spirits had now -returned and they laughed and joked as they idled about or worked on -their shelters for the night. - -“It looks like a great big picnic ground here,” remarked Joseph to -Robert and Deerfoot as they stood together and gazed about them. - -“Too jolly,” said Deerfoot grimly and he shook his head. He held Black -Hawk in high esteem and was troubled by the evident carelessness of the -white men. - -“That’s right, Deerfoot, they are too jolly,” agreed Robert solemnly. -“They forget that we started on the thirteenth.” - -“Oh, Bob—” began Joseph, when he was suddenly interrupted. A great -hubbub and noise suddenly arose throughout the camp and the men rushed -wildly hither and thither. All was confusion, as every man strove to get -his horse and mount it. - -“What is it? What is the trouble?” exclaimed Robert in alarm. - -“Look there,” directed Joseph. - -On the crest of a hill nearly a mile away appeared three horsemen. That -they were Indians was easily seen by their headdresses. One of them -carried a flag. - -“Who are they, do you suppose?” exclaimed Robert excitedly. He and -Joseph and Deerfoot all ran for their horses, but they did not mount. -They were waiting for orders, but the other men were apparently mad with -excitement, or at least many of them. Shouting and cursing, a large body -of them dashed off across the prairie in the direction of the three -Indians. Major Stillman and the other officers did their utmost to -restrain their followers, but their efforts were useless. The rangers -were not accustomed to discipline and obeying orders, and now they paid -slight attention to the commands. - -“We’ll stay here,” said Joseph. “We’ll show Major Stillman that a few of -us know enough to do as we’re told, anyway.” - -“Who are those Indians, I want to know?” cried Robert. - -“Black Hawk men,” said Deerfoot. - -“But what is that flag?” Robert persisted. - -“White flag,” explained the Indian, whose eyesight was far better than -that of either of his young friends. - -“Sure enough,” exclaimed Joseph. “They’re probably messengers from Black -Hawk. They’ve got a flag of truce anyway.” - -“It doesn’t look as if it was going to be respected though,” said -Robert. “Just see the way those men are rushing at the messengers.” - -“Walt was about the first to start, too. Did you notice that?” - -“He’ll get into trouble, I’m afraid.” - -“He didn’t even have a saddle on his horse,” said Joseph. “I noticed -lots of the others that way, too. I never saw men in such a hurry.” - -As they stood and watched their companions bear down upon the -messengers, grave fears arose in the hearts of the two brothers. They -did not care for their Indian foes any more than did the other men, but -they believed in playing the game fairly. They knew how high an Indian’s -sense of honor was and they feared for the result if these hot-headed -rangers should do violence to Black Hawk’s messengers. Long association -with Deerfoot had taught them that an Indian never forgets an injury -done him any more than he does a kindness. - -Meanwhile, the mob of riders had swooped down upon the astonished -messengers. Surrounding the three Indians they shouted and waved their -arms and urged the braves on until they came into camp. Here more of the -volunteers swarmed around the envoys, and yells and imprecations sounded -on all sides. Major Stillman did his utmost to put an end to the -confusion and to quiet the hubbub. Standing in the center of the howling -mob of men he tried to speak. The three Indians sat on their ponies at a -loss to account for this demonstration and evidently were worried as to -their own safety. - -“My men,” began Major Stillman, “these three messengers have come to us -under a flag of truce. It is one of the rules of warfare that any bearer -of a white flag is to be treated with respect. So far——” - -The report of a rifle suddenly rang out, cutting short the words of the -speaker. One of the Indians pitched forward on his horse. He clutched -convulsively at the bridle in an effort to save himself, but his attempt -was of no avail. The horse plunged and reared, and the rider, slipping -from his place, fell to the ground, dead. Some one of the volunteers had -treacherously murdered one of the messengers. - -Immediately pandemonium broke loose. Confusion reigned before, but it -was nothing compared to the din that now arose. Men shouted and ran in -all directions, horses reared and kicked, orders were given, but no one -paid any attention to them. The men were stunned by what had happened -and by the time some semblance of order had been restored the two -remaining messengers were seen galloping at full speed across the -prairie in the direction from which they had come. - -“There they go!” shouted Walt, who had been in the thick of things all -this time. He quickly jumped for his horse, and, followed by several -score of the rangers, immediately started in hot pursuit of the two -fleeing Indians. - -“Come on, Joe, we might as well go too,” called Robert excitedly and a -moment later the two brothers, closely followed by Deerfoot, were also -speeding across the prairie after the excited horsemen. - -Suddenly about twenty men disengaged themselves from the main body, and, -urged on by the calls and shouts of several of their band, dashed off in -another direction. Joseph and Robert were at a loss to understand this -move until they gained the summit of a nearby knoll and spied five more -Indians. Evidently they had been sent forward by Black Hawk to spy on -the encampment and to see what treatment the messengers had received. -One look had been enough for them and they were now fleeing for their -lives. - -Close behind them sped their pursuers, shouting and firing their guns as -fast as they were able. Even as the two young brothers caught sight of -them, one of the spies threw up his hands and pitched headlong to the -ground. The riderless horse followed its companions for a short distance -and then stopped and began to crop the grass on the prairie. - -A moment later another one of the Indians was brought down, while the -three who were still left, kept on, and, thanks to the fleetness of -their ponies, gradually outdistanced their pursuers. - -“We’d better stick to the main body,” exclaimed Joseph, and at his word -they turned and followed the men who were still chasing the two -remaining messengers. The Indians on fresh horses had left their -pursuers far behind, but they still could be seen in the distance. -Across the prairie in hot pursuit rushed Major Stillman’s entire force, -a motley, disorganized and very much excited throng. - - - - - CHAPTER XII - THE ROUT - - -Joseph, Robert, and Deerfoot by fast riding finally caught up with the -advance guard of the volunteers. The men were in a frenzy of excitement -and rushed forward pell mell with no other thought than to overtake the -fleeing Indians. Sycamore Creek was ahead of them and this stream the -escaping messengers had already crossed. Their horses could be seen -scrambling up the opposite bank and a moment later they disappeared -behind a heavy fringe of bushes. - -With loud shouts the pursuers rushed forward. That there could be any -possible danger to them Major Stillman’s men did not seem to consider. -Each man was intent on being the first to overtake the fleeing redmen. -Deerfoot, however, knew the man they were dealing with and was -consequently more cautious. Mounted on an especially swift pony he -outdistanced the rest of the force and was the first to reach Sycamore -Creek. There he stopped and wheeling his pony held up his hand. - -The whole force came to a stop. Deerfoot raised himself in his stirrups. -“No go ahead now,” he called in a loud voice. “I fear ambush.” - -His remarks were greeted with howls of derision. Shouts and jeers were -flung at the Pottowattomie, and a few even went so far as to intimate -that probably Deerfoot was in league with Black Hawk and was attempting -to save his ally from destruction. At any rate, no one paid any -attention to his words of warning. Once more the rangers spurred their -horses forward. - -“Come on, Joe,” called Robert excitedly. “We mustn’t be left out of -this.” - -“Did you hear what Deerfoot said?” - -“I know, but he’s overcautious sometimes. Even if he is right we can’t -stay behind now. Major Stillman himself ordered the advance.” - -“No one seems to obey him very often, though,” remarked Joseph grimly. -“At least they only do when they feel like it.” - -“Are you coming?” - -“Of course I am,” retorted Joseph as he urged his horse forward. - -Some fifty or more of the rangers had already crossed the creek and the -two young brothers were quick to follow. Into the water they plunged and -a few moments later were safe on the other side of the stream. Nearly -the whole force had now forded Sycamore Creek or were in the act of -doing so. As soon as they had emerged from the water they hurried -forward on their quest. - -Joseph glanced at Deerfoot. The Indian evidently was anxious and fearful -of what was in store for them. He clutched his tomahawk firmly in his -right hand, while his eyes constantly searched the nearby bushes for -possible signs of the enemy. - -Nothing had happened so far, however, and Joseph began to think that -perhaps his brother had been right when he said that Deerfoot was -sometimes overcautious. The pace was swift now and at least two hundred -yards had been covered since they had left the creek. The spot seemed -ideal for an ambush, but there was no sign of the hostile Sacs as yet. -Joseph felt more confident each moment. - -His confidence was shortlived, however. Just as the force of rangers -came to a particularly dense growth of bushes and timber, a yell rent -the air. A blood-curdling, ear-splitting war whoop sounded that from its -volume apparently issued from hundreds, perhaps thousands of throats. -Everyone of the rangers drew in his horse sharply and glanced about him -in astonishment. The yells were continuous and seemed to increase in -volume. But where did they come from? Not a sign of the enemy was to be -seen. - -Suddenly, however, the Indians appeared. Every tree and bush seemed to -split open and belch forth a bloodthirsty, yelling savage with a -tomahawk in his hand. All the warriors were on horses, and forward they -charged at full speed. They had rifles as well, and from these they -poured a deadly stream of bullets into the front ranks of the rangers. - -The volunteers, however, made no resistance. Instantly they wheeled -their horses and at full speed turned and fled for their lives. - -It was now Black Hawk’s opportunity to exult and to take his turn as the -pursuer. Terror filled the hearts of Major Stillman’s men, and in spite -of the efforts of their commander to rally them, they made off as fast -as their mounts could carry them. - -The rout was complete. From behind came the exultant yells and shrieks -of the Indians who were bending every effort to overtake and cut down -their white foes. They were still a considerable distance behind, -however, and fortunate it was for the volunteers that such was the case. - -Joseph, Robert and Deerfoot, once side by side, were now separated and -with no other choice they were obliged to flee with their comrades. The -two young brothers had stood their ground when the Indians first charged -and each had emptied his rifle at the onrushing warriors. No one else of -their company, however, had seemed inclined to stay with them. -Consequently, as it undoubtedly meant certain death for them to face -their foes alone, they too turned their horses and joined in the mad -flight. They did not even have time to see the effect of their bullets. - -As Joseph bent low over his horse’s back and urged the animal forward, a -man white with terror came alongside and by reason of his swifter mount -soon passed him. It was Walt. Even at such a time, Joseph could not -repress a grim smile, as he saw the traces of fear written all over the -man’s face. Walt, the one who had boasted of his prowess and his ability -to deal with the hostile Indians, was now running like a scared rabbit -for safety. Joseph’s smile changed to a snort of disgust. - -A bullet whirred past his head. Just ahead of him a man crumpled up in -his saddle and slid to the ground, a limp mass that but a few moments -before had been a human being. Joseph shuddered involuntarily at the -sight, but he could not stop. His thoughts were not for his own safety -alone, however. He wondered what had become of Robert and of Deerfoot. -He raised his head to look about him in an attempt to discover their -whereabouts. A bullet struck his cap, tearing it from his head, and -Joseph made no further effort to find his brother. - -Ahead of him, on both sides and behind him was a confused mob of -panic-stricken horsemen. The blood-curdling yells of the Indians sounded -constantly over the prairie, as the men sped onward in their attempt to -escape a massacre. Into Sycamore Creek they plunged. Coming out on the -other side they kept on in mad disorder, until they had reached the -clump of trees where their camp was pitched. They did not stop there, -however, nor did they seem to have any thought of checking their flight. - -Every man in the expedition seemed intent on putting as much space as -possible between himself and the yelling pursuers, who were now pressing -them so closely. - -“Fools,” thought Joseph to himself, as they passed the camp. “Why don’t -they stop here? We could defend this place against ten times our number. -With the trees for protection and the Indians still on the open prairie -we could pick them off at our leisure.” - -No one else seemed to share Joseph’s views, however, or if any one did -he did not try to put the plan into execution. On they sped, becoming -more scattered and more demoralized every moment. Many men had been -killed and Joseph himself had seen several fall from their horses. As -far as he could determine no one tried to oppose the Indians either. A -few shots had been fired at first, but since that time every man seemed -to be more interested in the fleetness of his pony than he did in -offering any resistance to the pursuers. - -As some of the ponies were much swifter than others the volunteers were -soon strung out in a long line over the prairie. To his dismay, Joseph -suddenly noticed that man after man was passing him and leaving him -behind. He could not be sure whether or not the shouts of the Indians -sounded closer, but he was greatly alarmed to see himself being -outdistanced by so many of his comrades. - -His pursuers were not yelling as much as they had been. That they had -not given up the chase, however, was manifest by the fact that above the -pounding of the horses’ hoofs could be heard the frequent bark of the -rifles. Joseph knew that it would be a long time before the Indians -would relinquish such an opportunity to avenge themselves upon their -enemies, the Americans. - -He could see that his pony was tiring fast and that his predicament -would soon be desperate unless something speedily occurred to aid him. -It was only a question of time before his horse would break down under -the strain and then the young pioneer’s case would be almost hopeless. -Joseph raised his head and glanced about him. - -A short distance ahead, and a little to one side, he spied a ravine. A -narrow gully, filled with bowlders and scrubby trees, appeared to -Joseph’s gaze and he quickly decided to enter it, for perhaps he might -find a place of refuge. He turned his horse and plunged into the ravine. - -As he urged his horse to a final effort his mind turned to Robert and -Deerfoot. What had become of them? If they had been killed, or far -worse, captured, Joseph would be left all alone in the world. A lump -arose in his throat at the thought. This was no time for sentiment, -however, and he quickly suppressed his feelings and devoted his whole -attention to his own safety. - -A short distance in advance of him he spied a thick clump of bushes. -Toward these Joseph hurried and upon reaching the spot was overjoyed to -find that they would afford a screen sufficient to hide him from the -gaze of anyone who should pass that way. On the other hand he could look -out from his refuge and see all that was taking place around him. - -He tethered his horse to one of the roots of a large tree, which had -been torn from its place by some great wind. Making sure that in his -hiding place he and his horse were well concealed, he crawled cautiously -along the trunk of the fallen tree, until he reached a spot from which -he could see the surrounding country. - -Hardly had he been in his place a moment when he heard the clatter of -hoofs and not fifty feet from him he spied five Indians riding past at -full speed in pursuit of the flying volunteers. - - - - - CHAPTER XIII - THE WHINNY OF A HORSE - - -Close behind these Indians came five more and then a little squad of -three. Next appeared one solitary brave, his war paint shining while he -shouted at the top of his voice. Joseph shuddered as he saw these -savages dash past him and involuntarily he drew back further on the tree -trunk. He had no desire to be seen by any one of his bloodthirsty foes, -especially at this time when they were so filled with confidence and -their desire to kill. - -“If I count the number of Indians who pass this way,” thought Joseph, “I -can tell just how many may return and in that way I can tell whether or -not there are any between me and Dixon’s Ferry. When I am sure that all -have returned I can start out and take my time about getting back.” - -This seemed to Joseph an excellent plan and he proceeded to put it into -execution. The only trouble was that he expected at least several -hundred of Black Hawk’s party to pass that way in their pursuit of Major -Stillman’s men, and undoubtedly it would take a long time before they -would return. Then, too, there was always the chance that some might go -back to their camp by a different route and thus escape his notice. At -any rate he decided to make an attempt at carrying out his scheme. - -Thus far he had counted fourteen warriors. No more appeared for some -time and Joseph began to wonder where the main body was. Certainly the -fleeing volunteers had passed his hiding place, and if the Indians -intended to overtake them they must follow the same course. - -“Here they come,” thought Joseph as once more he heard the clatter of -hoofs on the prairie. Peering out cautiously he was surprised to see -only four Indians in the party. He heard more approaching, however, and -soon an additional band of six appeared. This last detachment was not -riding as hard as the ones who had passed previously. They seemed to be -in no hurry and were apparently debating whether or not they should give -up the pursuit of the rangers. - -Suddenly Joseph heard a shout and saw the six warriors abruptly halt. -They turned and awaited the approach of a solitary brave a hundred yards -or more to their rear. When he came up to them, the seven Indians -gathered in a circle and held a spirited discussion. Joseph fancied that -the argument was as to whether they should push on or give up the chase -and return to camp. Evidently his surmise was correct, for at the -expiration of a few moments the entire band started back in the -direction from which they had come. - -“That makes twenty-five Indians I have counted altogether,” thought -Joseph. “I wonder what has happened to all the others who attacked us?” - -Many minutes passed, however, and no more appeared. “Seven already -returned,” said Joseph to himself. “That makes eighteen more I must wait -for. I hope they won’t be long and that they won’t discover me.” The -thought of what might happen to him, should his hiding place be found by -any of the marauders, made him shudder. He turned and glanced at his -horse. The animal stood with drooping head, evidently thoroughly tired -from its exertions. That he would soon be overtaken if it came to a -question of speed was only too evident to the youthful frontiersman. It -seemed to Joseph that hours elapsed before he heard any more hoofbeats -on the prairie indicating that more of his enemies were returning. He -was tired and it was all he could do to keep awake. Several times the -young volunteer almost dropped off to sleep and the use of all his will -power was required to shake off this feeling of drowsiness. Joseph knew -that any such lapse might easily prove fatal to his chances of escaping. - -Finally, however, he heard a noise and as he peered out from his hiding -place he discovered a band of ten Indians approaching. They trotted -along in a careless manner, evidently confident that no danger was -lurking near at hand. That this was the case was fully realized by -Joseph who wondered what would befall him if he should shoot at any one -of the band. From his station in the ravine he could easily have -selected his man and found no difficulty in bringing him down. He might -even kill two or possibly three of his foes, but he was largely -outnumbered and it would only be a question of time before he must -either be killed or taken prisoner. - -“They’ll never capture me alive,” thought Joseph decidedly. He knew that -in such a case his doom would be surely sealed and undoubtedly preceded -by tortures that made his blood run cold even to think about. It was -hard for him to restrain himself, however, as he watched his enemies jog -past the place where he lay hidden. He fingered his rifle nervously and -once or twice even raised it to his shoulder. - -At length the Indians passed beyond his sight and Joseph settled himself -to wait for the remaining eight. He was not kept in suspense long, for -in a few moments six more rode by. They talked freely among themselves -and were apparently discussing their victory. Gestures were frequently -used in the course of their conversation, and everyone seemed to be -trying to outdo the others in boasting of his conquest. - -“Only two more,” thought Joseph as this party disappeared. “I wish -they’d hurry up and come, too.” The young pioneer was greatly puzzled to -know what could have happened to the remainder of Black Hawk’s band. He -had been sure that the volunteers were attacked by at least several -hundred warriors. Little by little, however, he began to change his -ideas as he saw the few that had followed in pursuit of the white men. -“Could it be possible,” he thought, “that over three hundred white men -had been put to flight by a mere handful of Indians?” He had counted -twenty-five in all and he doubted if more than twice that number could -have attacked them in the first place. - -“What a disgrace,” he thought. “We ran like a lot of cowards. The first -shout scared us away and we didn’t even stop to see how many there were -against us.” He became still more angry as he thought of the rout and -when he recalled the look of fear on Walt’s face a snort of disgust and -contempt expressed his feelings in the matter. - -Once more, however, his thoughts were interrupted by the sound of -horses’ hoofs. A moment later two Indians came within sight and Joseph -heaved a sigh of relief as he realized that these were the last he was -waiting for. In a few moments more he could mount his horse and proceed -to Dixon’s Ferry and then he could discover what had befallen Robert and -Deerfoot. - -The Indians were now opposite Joseph’s lookout. He remembered distinctly -seeing these men pass before, for one of them rode a spotted pony, -easily distinguished from all the others. As Joseph noted this fact, the -pony in question suddenly thrust his head forward and whinnied. This in -itself was not remarkable, but its consequences certainly were. - -Joseph was horrified to hear from behind him the answering whinny of his -own horse. That this desire for company on the part of his horse might -easily have fatal results the young frontiersman knew only too well. His -limbs were almost paralyzed as with wide eyes he watched his two foes to -see if they had heard the sound. That they had done so was only too -evident from their actions. They immediately wheeled their ponies and -peered eagerly in the direction from which the unexpected sound had -come. - -Spellbound, Joseph watched them. Perhaps they might pass on after all, -thinking their ears had deceived them. That there was but slight chance -of this, however, he well knew, and for a moment he thought his best -plan would be to fire at them. On second thought he decided that the -sound of the shots might summon help to the redskins and that was the -last thing Joseph desired to happen. - -Motionless, and with their guns ready for instant use, the two warriors -sat and looked straight at Joseph’s hiding place. He knew they could not -see him from the place where they were stationed, and he hoped and -prayed that they would not investigate. This hope was quickly -dissipated, however, for suddenly his horse whinnied again. For a moment -the young volunteer was so angry he could have shot the animal, but he -knew that any such action would only spell ruin to his chances of -escape. At any rate, the horse knew no better and was probably lonesome. - -No sooner had the sound reached the ears of the waiting Indians than -they raised their guns and fired. Two bullets came crashing through the -bushes close to Joseph’s head and he heard one of them flatten itself -against a rock just behind him. Taking quick aim he fired his own rifle -and saw one of the Indian’s ponies drop to the ground. He waited for no -more, but jumping quickly upon the back of his horse he sped away down -the ravine. - -A hundred yards in advance of him the gully led out onto the open -prairie. Soon Joseph emerged; his appearance was greeted by a yell of -rage, and two bullets which whistled past his ears. Glancing behind him -the young volunteer saw the Indian, whose horse had been shot, -struggling to reload his gun, while the one that was mounted on the -spotted pony was speeding forward in hot pursuit. - -Joseph bent low over the neck of his horse and urged the animal to do -its best. He had one bullet in his rifle and this he decided to use only -when he could be reasonably sure of hitting his mark. Behind him he -heard the war whoop of the pursuing redman, and this time Joseph knew -that he was engaged in a race for life, such as he had never had before. -The opportunities were more equal this time, but the Indian being behind -had whatever advantage there was. “His life or mine,” decided Joseph. - -How long could his horse hold out? That was the question that most of -all troubled the young pioneer. He realized how far and how fast his -mount had already traveled that day, and grave fears for the animal’s -endurance beset Joseph’s mind. - -Once more he glanced behind him. The Indian was gaining rapidly upon -him. The spotted pony was evidently very fleet and the distance between -the two racers was rapidly diminishing. Joseph’s heart sank at the -sight. He was tempted to turn and fire at his pursuer now. Nearly a -hundred yards still separated them, however, and Joseph knew only too -well that any chance of success at that distance was very slight. -Dangerous as it was he decided to save his ammunition and run the risk -of still being alive when a better opportunity should present itself. - -On they sped, the horses’ hoofs beating a sharp tattoo on the hard -ground of the sunbaked prairie. The brush seemed to interfere with his -horse’s progress while the spotted pony which his pursuer rode ran -easily and apparently was unhampered by any obstructions. “What a pony -that is,” thought Joseph. “If we could only trade mounts he’d never -catch me. I could laugh at him and simply run away as I pleased.” - -A quick look about him showed Joseph that now scarcely more than fifty -yards was between him and his enemy. “Why doesn’t he shoot?” exclaimed -the young volunteer out loud. “If he’d only fire and miss me I could -stop and shoot him down before he has a chance to reload.” - -As if following Joseph’s suggestion the Indian suddenly raised his gun -and fired. The fleeing boy was crouching so low that he seemed almost a -part of his horse’s back. As he saw the redskin lift his gun to take aim -he flattened himself out still further and held his breath as he waited -for the result of the shot. - -At last the time had come which was to decide his fate. As the sharp -bark of the Indian’s rifle sounded over the prairie Joseph felt a -burning sensation in the fleshy part of his shoulder. He was wounded. It -was his left shoulder, however, and so excited was the young volunteer -that he scarcely felt the pain of the wound. He quickly stopped his -horse and straightening up in the saddle lifted his gun to his shoulder. - -The Indian seeing that he was tricked tried desperately to turn his -pony. At the same time he hurled his tomahawk, but the distance was too -great and it fell short of its mark. Joseph pulled the trigger and -immediately the Indian threw up his hands. For a moment he struggled -convulsively to keep his seat, but it was of no avail. He fell to the -ground, dead, a bullet through his temple. - -Joseph was stunned for a moment, and then, realizing that he was safe -once more, a great wave of joy swept over him. He felt no remorse at -having killed this man, for by doing so his own life had been saved. -Perhaps, too, this Indian was one of those who had massacred his family. -The young volunteer dismounted and drew near to his fallen foe. - -The young Indian was lying face down upon the ground. Joseph rolled him -over and noticed at his belt two freshly taken scalps. Suddenly a great -wave of horror rushed over the young frontiersman as he looked. One of -the scalps at the Indian’s belt was bright red. - - - - - CHAPTER XIV - THE SWALLOW - - -For a moment Joseph was too stunned to move. Shaking all over with -anguish he stood still and looked at the blood-stained trophy fastened -at the Indian’s belt. The hair was exactly the color of Robert’s, and -Joseph felt sure that his brother had fallen a victim to this redskinned -warrior. A great sob rose in the boy’s throat and the tears welled up -into his eyes, as he stood on the prairie and gazed at what he -considered the proof of his brother’s death. - -“The only one left,” thought Joseph. “My whole family wiped out by Black -Hawk. Thank goodness, I am still here and I swear I’ll have revenge.” He -clenched his fists and gritted his teeth as he thought of all he had -suffered at the hands of the savages. - -How long he stood in this place he did not know. It might have been -seconds and it might have been hours, as far as he was concerned, for -the young pioneer had lost all sense of time. He was completely wrapped -up in his own thoughts. A coyote barked and at the sound Joseph raised -his head. He looked about him, but the only sign of life he saw was the -two ponies browsing quietly nearby. - -“I’d better get out of here,” exclaimed the young volunteer suddenly. -“There’s no telling how soon those other savages may be on my trail if -that fellow whose horse I shot only gives the alarm.” He started to -remove the scalp from the Indian’s belt, but suddenly drew back. “I -can’t! I can’t touch it!” he moaned. He turned and walked toward the -place where his horse was feeding. The animal raised its head and -watched Joseph’s approach, but made no effort to escape. - -The young pioneer grasped the bridle and was about to climb into the -saddle when a sudden idea struck him. “Why not take the other pony, -too?” he thought. Surely it was a beautiful animal and much faster than -any horse Joseph had seen among the volunteers. A few moments later he -was seated astride the spotted pony on his way to Dixon’s Ferry. With -one hand he led his own horse and at a good rate of speed jogged forward -on his way. - -His new mount had a remarkable gait, which Joseph could not help -admiring. Joseph’s heart was heavy and his spirits were low, but in -spite of his sorrowful feelings, he did not fail to realize that the -pony which had fallen into his hands was a prize. “The kind of a horse -I’ve always wanted to own but never expected to,” he thought. - -Hour after hour he jogged across the prairie until at last he spied -Dixon’s Ferry in the distance. No sign of the enemy had appeared -throughout the day, though Joseph had taken pains to search the horizon -every few moments. The end of his journey was in sight, though this -knowledge gave but little pleasure to the young volunteer. He kept -wondering what he should do now that he was left alone, bereft of -parents, sisters and brother. - -Coming into Dixon’s Ferry, Joseph met a large force as it was departing -from the little settlement. General Whiteside was in command and the -object of the expedition was to bury the dead left on the battlefield by -Major Stillman. General Atkinson had now arrived with his troops and -Dixon’s Ferry presented a busy scene. The fight of the previous day was -the main topic of conversation and consternation and bewilderment had -taken possession of the men. - -Joseph rode quietly through the camp, searching eagerly for a familiar -face. He did not arouse any particular comment as he came in with his -two horses, for more than a thousand men were departing with General -Whiteside at just that time and the young volunteer was overlooked in -the crowd. Suddenly he spied Deerfoot, seated under a large tree smoking -his long pipe. His back was toward Joseph, so that he approached close -to the Indian without being seen. - -“Deerfoot!” Joseph called, as he stopped his horses under the tree where -the Pottowattomie was seated. - -The Indian jumped to his feet as if he had been a jumping-jack. His pipe -fell to the ground and broke into a thousand bits while he stared at -Joseph with startled eyes. For once he forgot to mask his feelings. - -“What’s the matter?” demanded Joseph in amazement. - -“Me thought you dead,” said Deerfoot in an awestruck voice. - -“Not at all. I’d just as lief be, though.” - -Deerfoot stared and stared at his young friend as if he could not -believe his eyes. Finally he apparently convinced himself that it was no -apparition that he saw, and his gaze shifted to the horse Joseph rode. -Once more he started perceptibly. “Where you get that pony?” he -demanded. - -“I captured him.” - -“Where his rider?” - -“He’s dead.” - -“You shoot him?” asked Deerfoot. - -“Yes.” - -“You not catch him when he ride that pony,” said the Indian decidedly. - -“No,” said Joseph, “he caught me.” He proceeded to tell Deerfoot of his -encounter on the prairie and how he had finally shot his pursuer. “You -act as though you had seen this pony before, Deerfoot,” he added. - -“Sure that The Swallow,” said Deerfoot quietly. - -“The Swallow?” repeated Joseph. “How does it happen that you know his -name and recognized him when you saw him?” - -“Everyone know that pony,” replied Deerfoot. - -“Why do they?” Joseph demanded. - -“He fastest horse in country.” - -“What!” exclaimed the young frontiersman. “The fastest horse in the -country, you say? What do you mean?” - -“He called The Swallow,” said Deerfoot. “He run as fast as swallow fly.” - -“Whew!” whistled Joseph in amazement. “It looks as though I had found a -pretty good horse, doesn’t it? Who owned him?” - -“White Owl,” replied Deerfoot. “He one of Black Hawk young men.” - -“Do you suppose it was White Owl I killed?” - -“That so. He no let any other ride pony.” - -“Well,” exclaimed Joseph bitterly, “I’m glad I killed him and got his -horse. I’d give him back both if I could, if he’d only return what he -took from me.” - -“What he take from you?” asked Deerfoot. - -“I guess you know as well as I do,” cried Joseph, his voice choking with -emotion. “If you’d seen the scalp he had, you’d know. If Robert isn’t -dead, why isn’t he with you now?” - -“Because he’s been down taking a swim in Rock River,” said a voice -nearby, and turning around Joseph saw his brother standing not five feet -distant from the spot where he and Deerfoot were talking. His teeth -showed in a radiant smile, while his hair seemed redder than ever -before. - -“Bob!” exclaimed Joseph. “I thought you were dead.” - -“Far from it,” laughed Robert. “I consider myself one of the liveliest -people in camp.” - -“But I saw your scalp,” protested Joseph. - -“You see it now, you mean,” said Robert. “It is right on the top of my -head, just where it has always been.” - -“Why,” said Joseph, “I killed an Indian out on the prairie who had two -scalps at his belt. One of them had red hair, just the color of yours. I -was sure you had been killed.” - -“Not I,” laughed Robert. “Deerfoot and I wasted no time on the prairie. -We were among the first to reach Dixon’s. We were worried about you, -though. When you didn’t turn up we were almost sure you had been killed. -What have you been doing all this time and how did you escape?” - -Joseph related his experiences again and then some moments were spent in -admiring Joseph’s new horse, The Swallow. “He is certainly a beauty!” -exclaimed Robert enthusiastically. “I can easily see that everyone is -going to be very jealous of you, Joe.” - -“Let them!” laughed Joseph. “They can do anything they want, but they -can’t take my pony and they can’t catch him either.” - -Deerfoot again appeared at this moment, bringing some food for Joseph. -When the young man’s hunger had been appeased and the horses had been -cared for, the three companions set out for a tour of the camp. -Everywhere were little excited groups of men talking about the battle. -Some of the men had not even returned to Dixon’s Ferry, but had kept -right on to their homes, having had enough of Indian warfare. - -One gathering contained faces familiar to the boys and this one they -joined. Walt was in the center doing most of the talking. - -“Yes,” he was saying, “just as I passed that ravine at least a hundred -Indians came tearing out at me. They were yelling like a pack of wolves -and firing off their guns as fast as they could load them. I shot two of -them, but they were too many and I finally decided to run for it. I have -the satisfaction of knowing that I finished a couple of them anyway.” - -“Where was that ravine, Walt?” asked Joseph curiously. - -“Hello, there, my boy!” exclaimed Walt, catching sight of Joseph. “Glad -to see you back. We were afraid you had fallen by the wayside. Why, that -ravine I was speaking of was near a clump of woods about a mile this -side of where our camp was pitched.” - -“How many Indians did you say came out of there?” - -“Why, about seventy-five or a hundred. What are you laughing at?” he -demanded as a smile overspread Joseph’s face. - -“Nothing,” replied Joseph quietly, “except this: I spent most of last -night in that ravine you were describing.” - -“What if you did?” exclaimed Walt warmly. “That doesn’t say a hundred or -more Indians didn’t charge out from there earlier, does it?” - -“Well, I don’t know,” mused Joseph. “The trouble with your story is -this: I reached that gully before any of the Indians. I hid there all -night and I counted every Indian that pursued our men. I counted them as -they went out and I counted them again as they came back, just to make -sure they had all returned.” - -“Do you insinuate that I am a liar?” cried Walt, half rising to his -feet. - -“I insinuate nothing,” replied Joseph coolly. “I am merely stating -facts.” - -Silence reigned in the little company. The men gathered there looked -curiously from one to the other of the speakers. The situation was tense -and for a moment it seemed as if there might be trouble. - -“All right then,” said Walt in response to Joseph’s statement. “Tell us -how many Indians you counted.” The trapper’s tone was contemptuous, for -he had been piqued at the way the two brothers threatened him when he -made remarks about Deerfoot and he still held his grudge. - -“How many do you think there were?” Joseph demanded. - -“Don’t you know yourself? I thought you counted them.” - -“I did. I just wondered if you had any idea of the number.” - -“Well,” said Walt, “I should say that at least five hundred attacked us -originally. Probably not more than two-thirds of that number chased us -very far. When we passed that ravine I was speaking of, there were about -three hundred or three hundred and fifty.” - -Joseph laughed outright at this. “What’s the joke?” demanded Walt hotly. - -“Do you want to know just how many there were?” - -“Of course we do.” - -“Well,” said Joseph, “there were exactly twenty-five.” - -A howl of derision not only from Walt but from the whole company greeted -this remark. The men looked at Joseph contemptuously. - -“Your night out must have affected your head,” said Walt sneeringly. - -“Nothing of the kind,” exclaimed Joseph warmly, and hot-headed Robert -drew a bit closer to his brother in case there should be trouble. “I -counted twenty-five and that’s all there were. I don’t believe there -were over fifty opposed to us at any time.” - -“Poor boy! Poor boy,” moaned Walt pityingly. “He’s either out of his -head or he never learned how to count.” - -“Look here,” cried Joseph, thoroughly aroused. “I know what I’m talking -about and I’m telling the truth, and that’s more than you are. I saw you -pass me and if ever a man was scared, you were. Your face was as white -as chalk and you were running like a scared rabbit. And when you say you -killed two Indians, you lie.” - -Walt sprang to his feet, his face livid. He struggled to reach Joseph, -but was restrained by his companions. For some moments the excitement -was intense and it was a puzzle as to how the difficulty would be -settled. - -“Look here,” exclaimed one of the men. “One of these men is a liar, -that’s sure. Which one it is I can’t say, though I’m inclined to think -it is this boy here who says he counted only twenty-five Indians. -Suppose we make him prove his statement.” - -“Can you do it?” whispered Robert in his brother’s ear. - -“No, of course not,” said Joseph. “I have nothing but my word.” - -“We’ll fight the whole gang, then,” exclaimed Robert. - -“I wouldn’t believe that boy on oath now,” cried Walt, still trying to -wrench himself free from those who were holding him. “Next thing he’ll -be trying to tell us that he captured The Swallow from White Owl and -brought him back to camp.” - -“That’s just exactly what I did do,” exclaimed Joseph. - - - - - CHAPTER XV - AN INVITATION - - -A roar went up from the assemblage at this remark of Joseph. The men -laughed and whistled and hooted until the din was almost deafening. -Through it all Joseph stood quietly, but with white face and clenched -hands. Robert was for challenging everyone present to fight at once and -it was with difficulty that he was restrained by his cooler headed -brother. - -Finally the noise somewhat subsided. The men ceased their jeering and -turned to Joseph once more. Walt appointed himself spokesman. - -“So you captured The Swallow, did you?” he said sneeringly. - -“That’s what I told you,” replied Joseph quietly. - -“Would you mind letting us look at him?” asked Walt with pretended -politeness. At the same time he winked at the others in the crowd. - -“Certainly you may see him,” agreed Joseph. “Suppose I do prove to you -that I captured The Swallow. Will you believe my other story then?” - -“We’ll believe anything,” laughed Walt, good-natured once more at the -prospect of making sport of Joseph. Certainly he had thought that the -boy was idly boasting about the horse or he never would have undertaken -the risk he now was incurring. - -“Come along, then,” exclaimed Joseph, and with Robert and Deerfoot -walking beside him, he started toward the place where the ponies were -tethered. Walt became a bit uneasy now as he saw how ready Joseph was to -carry out his suggestion. Perhaps he had captured The Swallow after all, -and if so Walt fully understood that he would find himself in a very -embarrassing position. - -Robert and Joseph conversed eagerly as they went along. “I knew that -when we started on the thirteenth of the month bad luck would follow -us,” exclaimed Robert. “Just see what has happened! We were defeated and -disgraced by a handful of Indians, and then you get mixed up in a -quarrel and are called a liar and I don’t know what else. I felt sure we -ought not to have started on that day.” - -“Don’t be silly, Bob,” laughed Joseph. “We have had some hard luck, I’ll -admit, but we’ve had some good luck, too. At least I have. Just think of -my capturing the most famous horse in this part of the country and now -owning him all for myself.” - -“How can you be sure it is The Swallow?” demanded Robert. - -“Deerfoot said it was.” - -“Perhaps he was mistaken.” - -“No mistaken,” exclaimed Deerfoot. “That Swallow, sure.” - -“I hope so,” said Joseph fervently. “I’m in for it if there has been any -mistake.” - -They had now come within a short distance of the spot where the horses -had been fastened. Joseph at once turned to face the crowd following -him. Many more had collected by this time so that more than a hundred -men were gathered together to see the result of the argument. Most of -them favored Walt, if only for the reason that they had fled as eagerly -as he and they had no desire to be publicly acclaimed as cowards. - -“Wait here a moment,” exclaimed Joseph. “I’ll go get The Swallow, and -ride him out here for you to see.” - -“We can’t wait more than two days,” called Walt as Joseph made off. The -crowd laughed at this remark, for Walt was considered a great wit. - -“You didn’t wait very long for Black Hawk to arrive the other day, -either, did you, Walt?” shouted Robert, incensed at the treatment to -which his brother was being subjected. The crowd also laughed at this -and Walt’s face once more flushed with rage. - -“Did you wait yourself?” he cried angrily. - -“Not I,” replied Robert cheerily. “I came home just as fast as you did. -The only difference is I admit it and you don’t.” - -The crowd enjoyed this conversation tremendously and was hoping for more -of it, but just at this moment Joseph appeared. As the spotted pony -trotted into view from behind a clump of trees a murmur of admiration -ran through the gathering. “That’s him, all right!” exclaimed a -raw-boned pioneer standing next to Robert. Nods of affirmation were seen -on all sides and exclamations of envy were heard as well. - -Robert looked for Walt to see what he had to say now, but he looked in -vain. Walt had disappeared. He had recognized The Swallow instantly, for -he had often seen the famous pony and knew him well. Realizing that he -was beaten he slipped quietly away in the crowd and hastened to his tent -to be alone and unseen. - -“Where’s Walt?” cried Joseph, looking in vain for the trapper. - -“He had an engagement, I guess,” laughed one of the men, after a vain -search had been made for the missing man. “Maybe we can find him -though,” suggested one of the others. - -“Let him go,” exclaimed Joseph. “All I want to know is whether this pony -is The Swallow or not.” - -“He certainly is,” cried the whole assemblage with one accord. They -gathered about Joseph and his new mount, curiously inspecting this horse -that had made itself so famous on the prairies. Everyone now was on -Joseph’s side and every man vied with one another in saying pleasant -things. Even Robert was pacified and he took great pride in the sudden -fame which his brother had acquired. - -“What’ll you sell him for?” was the question frequently put to Joseph; -but in answer, the young pioneer every time shook his head and merely -smiled. “Money couldn’t buy this horse from me,” he exclaimed. - -Supper time soon came and the gathering then scattered. The two brothers -and Deerfoot were left to themselves, and the Indian was soon busily -engaged in preparing the evening meal. When this was over, the three -volunteers settled themselves around their fire and discussed all that -had happened to them recently. They also talked of what might be in -store for them in the approaching days, and wondered what their fortunes -would be. - -“What do you suppose our next move will be?” inquired Joseph. - -“I heard this afternoon that we were to join General Whiteside’s men in -a few days,” replied Robert. “He went out to the battlefield yesterday, -you know, and is to push on after Black Hawk.” - -“What is General Atkinson to do?” - -“He is the one that is going to join General Whiteside. I supposed, of -course, we would go with him.” - -“We stay here,” said Deerfoot. - -“What for? How do you know?” queried Robert. - -“Stillman’s men stay here, guard supplies.” - -“How did you find that out?” asked Joseph curiously. - -“Me know, that’s all,” replied the Indian, and both boys were aware that -further questioning was useless. They also were convinced, too, that -Deerfoot was probably right. Seldom it was that he made any statement of -which he was not absolutely sure. - -“They’ll leave us here because we disgraced ourselves, I suppose,” -exclaimed Robert bitterly. “I don’t blame them either, but I tell you it -makes me mad. I wish I could get just one more chance.” - -“Don’t worry, Bob,” urged Joseph. “You’ll probably get another chance, -all right. We’ll all have to make up for the way we acted.” - -“Where do you think Black Hawk is now, Deerfoot?” exclaimed Robert -impulsively. He half rose to his feet as though he intended to start in -pursuit of his enemy that very moment. - -“Sit down, Bob,” laughed his brother. “You’re not thinking of starting -after him now, are you?” - -“Just as soon as I can,” said Robert eagerly. “Where is Black Hawk now?” - -“He go north,” replied Deerfoot. “Four lakes probably.” - -“Is that far from here?” - -“Very far,” said the Indian. “Much swamps, too.” - -“That’s probably just what will happen, all right,” agreed Joseph. -“Black Hawk will go up into the swamps and hide there and then we’ll -have some fun driving him out again.” - -“Maybe he starve,” suggested Deerfoot. - -“Hasn’t he any supplies?” asked Joseph. - -“No think so. He not able to raise corn last year. He no get any now.” - -“That’s very true,” said Joseph. “Perhaps General Atkinson intends to -starve him out.” - -“That’s not my way, though,” exclaimed Robert. “I’m for going right into -the swamps or any other place where he may lead us. Finish it up and get -it over with as soon as we can, is my idea.” - -“I don’t know,” argued the more cautious Joseph. “Starving him out may -take longer, but it is just as good a way in the end and we won’t lose -half as many men.” - -“Still,” laughed Robert, “I don’t suppose any of the officers are going -to ask us for our opinion in the matter, so there isn’t much use in our -talking about it.” - -“You’re right, Bob,” agreed Joseph. “Who is this coming?” he exclaimed a -moment later. Some man was making his way through the darkness toward -their fire. It was impossible to see who it was and the prowler came all -the way up to the fire without being recognized. It was then discovered -that the visitor was Walt. - -“I’ve come to apologize to you, Joseph,” he said, after he had made -himself known. “I acted badly this afternoon and I know it. I’m sorry -and I want you to shake hands with me and forgive me if you can. Will -you do it?” - -“Of course I will,” exclaimed Joseph at the same time putting forth his -hand. - -“I did lie,” continued Walt. “I acted like a coward, too, and you showed -me up for what I was. I was mad at you for doing it at the time, but I -got to thinking it over and decided that I deserved it all. From now on -I’m going to try to make up for it, and I want your friendship and that -of your brother, and Deerfoot’s, too. Do you think I stand any chance of -getting it?” - -“You certainly do,” said Robert heartily. This red-headed boy had a -quick temper but he had also a correspondingly warm heart. He saw that -Walt meant what he had said, and that was all that Robert needed. He -shook hands warmly with the trapper. Deerfoot in silence also offered -his hand. - -“Now,” said Walt. “I’m going to ask another favor of you three. I have -been ordered to carry some dispatches for General Atkinson. He told me -to select my own party and I want you three as members of it. Will you -go?” - -“Will we go!” exclaimed Robert. “Of course we’ll go and the sooner the -better. When do we start, Walt?” - -“The first thing in the morning. Just sit down a minute and I’ll tell -you about it.” - - - - - CHAPTER XVI - A SCOUTING PARTY - - -“I can’t tell you much, for I don’t know much about it, myself,” Walt -explained. “All the information I have are my orders. I am to carry some -dispatches from General Atkinson to Fort Armstrong.” - -“That’s all that is necessary for us to know,” cried Robert -enthusiastically. “How many are there to be in our party?” - -“Ten. We four and six others.” - -“We’d better get ready then, I guess,” suggested Joseph, who was always -of a practical turn of mind. “How about food? Who is to look out for -that?” - -“I am,” replied Walt. “The rest of you needn’t worry about a single -thing. Everything is ready and all you will have to do is to go along.” - -“That’s fine!” exclaimed Robert. “Just the kind of an expedition I like. -Not a blessed thing to worry about.” - -“Except Indians,” Joseph cautioned him. - -“Huh! Indians!” snorted Robert. “We aren’t afraid of Indians! Are we, -Deerfoot?” and he slapped that surprised brave heartily on the back. - -“No afraid,” replied Deerfoot seriously, looking in astonishment at his -young friend. He never had become used to these outbursts of hilarity on -Robert’s part and he did not know just what to make of them. - -“You’re glad you’re going, too, aren’t you?” Robert insisted. - -“Yes, me glad,” answered Deerfoot, without changing the expression of -his face or the tone of his voice. - -“You’re hopeless, Deerfoot,” exclaimed Robert laughing. “You show about -as much enthusiasm as a piece of rock.” - -“He doesn’t believe in wasting his strength and breath perhaps,” -suggested Joseph. “When the time comes he’ll be in the thick of things, -though, you may be sure of that.” - -“I know it,” said Robert. “When he does a thing or says a thing he means -it. That’s more than I can say sometimes.” - -“We won’t worry about you, I guess, Bob,” laughed Walt. “I know who can -be depended upon. That’s the reason I asked you to go with us.” - -“And now I’m going to leave you,” he added. “Don’t forget tomorrow. -We’ll meet at the swimming hole at daybreak. Good night.” - -“Good night,” replied Joseph, Robert and Deerfoot together, and a moment -later Walt disappeared in the darkness. - -“Where is Fort Armstrong?” demanded Robert, as they were preparing to -turn in for the night. - -“Why, Bob,” chided his brother. “Don’t you know where that is?” - -“Of course I do,” replied Robert. “That’s just the reason I asked you.” - -“Well, it’s right where the Rock River empties into the Mississippi,” -Joseph explained, paying no attention to his brother’s attempt at -sarcasm. “That is the place where General Atkinson and General Whiteside -came from. They collected their troops there before they started up the -Rock River.” - -“Then we’re going back the way they came?” - -“Exactly.” - -“But I’m afraid we’ll miss something,” protested Robert. - -“Don’t you want to go? A few minutes ago you said you did.” - -“I still do,” exclaimed Robert quickly. “For a moment it seemed to me -that we would be getting out of touch with things if we went back there, -but I guess there’s likely to be something going on, no matter where we -are.” - -“Surely, there is,” Joseph agreed. “I think that Black Hawk’s victory -will make it very unsafe for the settlers around here, too.” - -“That’s so. Probably all the Indians will start out on the warpath now.” - -“Yes, and they’ll be murdering all the settlers in the country,” -exclaimed Joseph. “Many more families will get the same treatment ours -did, I’m afraid.” - -“Well, that’s what you and I are here to stop, you know,” said Robert. - -“Perhaps if we stop talking and get some sleep we’ll be in better shape -to do it, too,” Joseph suggested. “Look at Deerfoot. He’s asleep -already.” - -The two brothers also were soon fast asleep and knew nothing more until -they felt their Indian friend shaking them and telling them to wake up. -They were on their feet almost instantly and were soon ready to depart. -The ponies were fed and watered, and in a short time they were all on -their way to the meeting place on the river bank. It was scarcely light -as yet and the first rays of the sun were just appearing when the young -soldiers reached their destination. - -Walt was already on hand, as also were two of the other members of the -party. In a few moments the three remaining scouts appeared and a start -was made at once. - -The boys were very proud to be members of this expedition. A -responsibility had been placed upon their shoulders and every man likes -to feel that he is thought capable of sharing such a trust. Joseph was -doubly proud. He sat astride The Swallow and felt himself the center of -all eyes. The more he rode the pony the better he liked him, too. As -Walt said, “The Swallow was everything that a horse should be.” - -They struck off across the prairie and following the course of the river -as closely as practicable they made their way steadily forward. Both -Joseph and Robert were delighted to see among their number John Mason, -the man who had first called Robert “Red,” and had entertained them one -night with a story of a hunting experience his father had had. The two -brothers had formed a strong liking for this man. He was a splendid type -of pioneer and commanded the respect of all who came in contact with -him. - -“Bad times ahead of us, boys,” he exclaimed, bringing his horse -alongside Robert’s and addressing the two brothers. - -“What’s the matter now?” Robert demanded. - -“Black Hawk has turned his war parties loose on the settlements.” - -“He did that long ago,” said Joseph. “Bob and I know that from bitter -experience.” - -“I know you do,” exclaimed Mason. “I guess you have caught it as hard as -anyone, but it’s going to be worse than ever now. Since Black Hawk -chased us away so easily, I guess he has become conceited and thinks -that nothing can hold him back.” - -“That’s what we said would happen,” Joseph remarked. - -“Well, it’s true,” continued Mason. “Several reports have come in -already of people being murdered.” - -“Near here?” inquired Robert. - -“Yes, quite near. Yesterday morning they killed a man just north of -here. He was a minister and was on his way to Chicago. It seems he was -in the habit of traveling around through the settlements in the course -of his work. He was a queer looking old fellow, with a beard that was -nearly a yard long. I remember him well, for he used to come around my -part of the country as well as here. Two nights ago he stopped over -night with a family who warned him that suspicious Indians were in the -neighborhood. They all left the house and hurried off to safe places, -but he stayed on. He said he wasn’t afraid and that he didn’t think the -Indians would harm him anyway. So he stayed. One of the sons returned -home the next morning to get something that had been forgotten, and -found the poor old fellow scalped and his head almost severed from his -body. Isn’t that horrible?” - -“I should say it is,” agreed Joseph, shuddering at the thought. - -“Where did you hear about it?” asked Robert. - -“The son who returned home told me. He hurried right from there to -Dixon’s and wants to enlist. He says this business must stop.” - -“He is right about that!” Joseph agreed heartily. “Why, no one will be -safe any more unless something is done. All the other tribes may be -lured in, too, if they see the success Black Hawk is having.” - -“Very true,” said Mason. “I believe that already some of the Winnebagos -and Pottowattomies have joined him.” - -“Is that so?” exclaimed Robert. “I wonder if Deerfoot knows that some of -his people are with Black Hawk now?” - -“Of course he knows,” said Joseph. “He seems to know everything almost -before it happens. He is uncanny at times.” - -“Do you suppose it will make any difference to him?” - -“Not a bit. Why, he’d choose you and me in preference to his own family, -I think. He likes us better than anyone else in the world.” - -“He certainly is a good friend of yours, isn’t he?” remarked Mason. “At -any rate I believe only a small band of his people are with Black Hawk. -Some of the young bloods who like fighting, that’s all.” - -“Indians love to fight, don’t they?” said Robert. “I wonder why it is.” - -“Simply because it is born in them, I guess,” laughed Mason. “All their -lives they fight. If not with the whites, then with some other tribe.” - -“I feel sorry for them,” Joseph remarked. “They certainly have had a -hard time ever since the white people came into this country. Every year -they are pushed farther and farther west. They see their homes being -taken from them and I don’t blame them if they don’t like it.” - -“I suppose you felt sorry for them when they were murdering our family -and burning our home,” exclaimed Robert hotly. - -“That’s different,” agreed Joseph. “At the same time I don’t suppose -they know any better and that is their way of making war.” - -“That doesn’t excuse them, though,” retorted Robert. - -“Of course it doesn’t,” Joseph admitted. “I’m for getting even with them -just as much as you are. Don’t worry about that. And I agree with you -that the quicker we let them know that we won’t stand for this sort of -business the better it will be for all concerned.” - -“That’s exactly the way I feel,” said Mason. “Personally I have nothing -against the Indians. There are good ones and there are bad ones, just as -there are good and bad white men. This country has got to be safe for -settlers to live in though, and I am going to do my best to help make it -that way. As you say we must let the Indians know that we intend to put -a stop to this wholesale murder and massacre.” - -The sun by this time was high in the heavens and a stop was made to -refresh the horses and to give the men a short breathing spell. They -halted in a clump of trees near the bank of the river. The men stretched -themselves on the ground and completely relaxed. It was a peaceful scene -and it would have been difficult for an observer to realize that danger -lurked near at hand. One of the scouts stationed as a lookout soon -testified to this fact, however. - -When a half-hour had elapsed the march was resumed. The route still lay -along the bank of the river, most of it over the open prairie. -Occasionally they crossed a swamp or passed through a clump of woods and -at such times extreme caution was exercised. One man was sent ahead to -spy out the land, while the others followed in single file, prepared for -any emergency that might arise. - -Thus far no sign of the enemy had been discovered, however. At the same -time the scouts did not relax their caution for an instant. They were -too familiar with the ways of the redmen to think themselves ever secure -from an attack. - -The day wore on and the shadows grew longer. Some of the horses began to -show signs of fatigue, but not so The Swallow. He stepped as lightly as -ever and apparently was as fresh as when he started. Joseph became more -enthusiastic over his new pony every moment. The other horses were -tired, however, and soon it was decided to stop for the night. - -“There’s a large swamp just ahead,” explained Walt. “I think we ought to -get through that before we pitch camp. On the other side is a long -stretch of prairie and we should be safe from any surprise out there in -the open.” - -Walt’s suggestion was approved and soon the little party came to the -swamp. It was particularly dense and of large extent. To ride around it -would have consumed much valuable time. Consequently they plunged into -its fastnesses and urged their horses to make their best speed and reach -the open country again as quickly as possible. - -The party was strung out in a long line, with John Mason at the head. No -one spoke and the only sound to be heard was the heavy breathing of the -horses and the sucking of their hoofs as they pulled them out of the -soft, wet earth. - -Suddenly a rifle shot rang out through the still air and the band of -scouts came to an abrupt halt. - - - - - CHAPTER XVII - A PERILOUS UNDERTAKING - - -Every man immediately dismounted. There was a rush for shelter and in a -remarkably short space of time the whole band had placed themselves -behind trees or clumps of bushes. Not one had abandoned his pony, -however, for without a mount no man would stand much chance if it should -come to a question of escape. - -The shot had been fired at John Mason, who was in the lead, but he had -escaped unharmed. Meanwhile, not a sound broke the stillness which -rested over the swamp. Many moments elapsed and still no significant -sound was heard. Joseph was standing behind a large oak tree, well -screened by a heavy growth of bushes. He had quickly tied The Swallow to -an overhanging bough and he hoped that no one of the Indians would -discover the presence of the pony. - -Robert had taken his station in a position similar to Joseph’s and about -ten yards distant from him. The remainder of the band were placed at -varying intervals over a space of nearly a hundred and twenty-five -yards. Every man held his rifle ready for immediate use. - -Joseph glanced eagerly about him. He could see his comrades crouching -behind their shelters but no sign of the enemy appeared. It gave the -young pioneer a queer feeling to see all these men hiding and yet not to -know from what they were trying to conceal themselves. - -He looked again at his brother. This was just the kind of situation to -appeal to Robert and he was greatly enjoying himself. He loved adventure -with a spice of real danger in it, and consequently was in high spirits. -He caught Joseph’s eye and smiled. Then he waved his hand at his -brother. As he did so there came the sharp report of a rifle and a -bullet clipped a piece of bark from the tree just above his head. Robert -drew back hurriedly. - -Instantly the white men’s rifles spoke, all firing at the puff of smoke -which disclosed the position of the Indian sharpshooter. Whether or not -any of the bullets reached their mark could not be seen, but this was -the signal for a general fusillade. The redmen replied to this volley -with a volley of their own and from that time on the firing became -general on both sides. Above all the noise arose the frequent war whoops -of the Indians, and both Robert and Joseph shuddered at the sound. They -had heard it often before and every time it had been followed by -misfortune. - -Suddenly another war whoop sounded not thirty feet from the spot where -Joseph was standing. At the sound he started violently and his gun -almost fell from his shaking fingers. He turned in alarm to see whence -the noise came, and to his intense relief discovered that Deerfoot was -the cause of his fright. The Pottowattomie had flung his defiance back -at his foes to show them that not all of his tribe were on the side of -Black Hawk. - -So interested was Joseph in watching his red ally that he nearly forgot -that he was in a fight and that at least fifteen or twenty bloodthirsty -Sacs were intent on taking his life. - -At the conclusion of this war cry Deerfoot immediately dropped to the -ground and began to worm his way forward on his belly as fast as he -could crawl. With fascinated gaze, Joseph watched the half-naked redman -whose skin glistened with war paint as he cautiously, but steadily -crawled onward across the swamp. - -From behind a tree scarcely fifty yards distant one of the enemy had -been firing. Evidently this brave was the goal Deerfoot had in mind. -Joseph soon realized this and resolved to do all in his power to aid. As -fast as he could load his gun he emptied it at the hidden Indian and did -his best to keep his attention occupied so that Deerfoot might approach -unnoticed. Deerfoot must have realized this, though, of course, he made -no sign. Rifle in hand he still was crawling through the swamp. The -grass was high, affording him excellent protection and he took great -pains to keep every possible bush or stump or tree between him and the -object of his quest. - -Every little while Joseph lost sight of Deerfoot. It was difficult to -follow the Pottowattomie’s course as he went along, and so skillfully -did Deerfoot perform his task that only the occasional waving of a clump -of bushes gave evidence that anyone was disturbing them. “That’s a -wonderful performance,” thought Joseph, and he was right. - -At length Joseph withdrew his gaze from Deerfoot’s movements and looked -around at the rest of his comrades. No one seemed to have been hit as -yet, though Joseph could only account for eight of the ten members of -the party. Robert was as cheerful as ever and presented a smiling though -powder-smeared countenance to his brother’s gaze. - -“Why don’t we charge them, Joe?” he called. - -“That would be a foolhardy thing to do,” replied Joseph. “What chance -would we stand?” - -“Some of us would survive,” said Robert. “I wish they’d try it, anyway.” - -Joseph made no reply beyond a shake of the head and once more he turned -his attention to Deerfoot. He was, however, now unable to locate the -Pottowattomie. Having once taken his eyes from the path he was pursuing -Joseph could not find it again. That Deerfoot must have approached close -to his goal now, he felt confident, but still no sign of him appeared. -The young pioneer riveted his gaze upon the tree that sheltered his -enemy, hoping for an opportunity for a favorable shot. He thought he saw -a feather move behind the broad trunk, and immediately he fired. - -An answering shot came almost instantly. Joseph could hear the bullet -cut through the branches directly above him, and involuntarily he drew -back farther behind his shelter. Scarcely had the report of the rifle -died away when an unearthly yell rent the air. Then before Joseph’s eyes -was enacted an awful scene. - -He saw Deerfoot suddenly spring to his feet, appearing as if by magic -from the tall grass at the foot of the tree behind which his enemy was -located. The shining, painted body of the Pottowattomie appeared like -some strange monster in the half light of the coming night. His war cry -echoed far out over the marsh, while in one hand he grasped his rifle, -and in the other was his tomahawk. With one bound he flung himself upon -his adversary. - -Joseph could see the flash of Deerfoot’s hatchet as it was raised to -strike. He could almost feel the shock of the two men’s bodies as they -came together and then the struggle passed out of his range of vision. -He hastily reloaded his gun and turned to Robert. - -“Come on, Bob!” he cried. “We must help Deerfoot!” - -“You can count on me,” replied Robert quickly, and together the two boys -started forward to the aid of their friend. It was a dangerous mission -on which they were embarking, but neither boy gave any heed to his own -peril. To help Deerfoot was their only thought and though they were not -sure that their loyal friend was in need of aid, they were determined to -be on hand in case such a need should arise. - -“Keep low, Bob,” warned Joseph. - -“I’m as low as I can get now!” exclaimed Robert. “I’m almost bent double -as it is.” - -“That’s the way to be. Now hurry as fast as you can.” - -The two brothers darted forward, rifle in hand. Crouching low and -running swiftly they hastened to Deerfoot’s assistance. - -“Come back!” shouted some one of their comrades in alarm as he saw what -the two boys were attempting. No attention was paid to this bit of -advice, however, and the boys merely increased their speed. A bullet -scudded over their heads, and then another struck the ground just in -front of them. On they went, however, each boy fearful lest he should be -too late in bringing aid to their faithful ally. - -Nearer and nearer they approached to the tree behind which Deerfoot had -disappeared. Thus far they had been untouched but it seemed almost a -miracle. Every moment the rain of bullets about them increased and to -their watching comrades it seemed as if they must be hit. Yells of -defiance and rage greeted their appearance and apparently every one of -the hostile party was now directing his fire at the two daring youths. - -Half the distance had been covered by this time. Only a few seconds had -elapsed but to the two brothers it seemed as if a long time had passed -since they had left their shelter and started on their perilous -adventure. No thought of retreat had entered either boy’s mind, however, -and even if they had had such a desire it was too late now to turn back. - -Just ahead of them was a large fallen oak and toward this they made -their way. Robert’s sleeve was cut by a bullet and both boys had felt -many of the leaden balls whiz by close to their ears. Still they kept on -and soon came to the prostrate tree. Vines and creepers covered the -trunk, providing an excellent screen, and behind this shelter the young -volunteers stopped for a momentary breathing spell and a chance to get -their bearings. - -“Whew, Bob, this is ticklish business!” panted Joseph, and he and his -brother instantly sank to the ground. - -“I know it, Joe,” replied Robert. “That doesn’t make any difference, -though. It has to be done.” - -“Of course it has,” cried Joseph. “We are wasting valuable time here, -too!” He once more sprang to his feet and after a hasty look about him -started on his way again. Robert followed close behind. “Only a few -yards more,” he called encouragingly. “We’ll make it all right, Joe.” - -Just at this moment when the two young pioneers appeared around the end -of their shelter, they were once more exposed to full view. A yell -greeted them, followed by a hail of lead. Bullets sang all about them -and suddenly Joseph uttered a groan and plunged forward. He fell -headlong to the ground and rolled over upon his back. - -Robert was at his side in an instant. “Where are you hit, Joe? Is it -bad?” he cried. Joseph’s red-headed and impulsive younger brother -apparently entirely forgot that he, too, was exposed to the fire of all -the Indian party. Not so, Joseph, however. Even at this time his first -thought was for his brother, and he begged him to return. - -“Go back, Bob,” he pleaded. “You can’t help me any now.” - -“Tell me where you’re hit,” demanded Robert. - -“Right here,” cried Joseph, holding on to his left leg with both hands. -“It’s just above the knee and I can’t walk.” - -“I’ll help you,” offered Robert eagerly. “Lean on me and we can get -back.” - -Joseph made an effort to get up, but it was unavailing. His leg gave out -under the weight and he rolled back to his former position. Blood showed -in a dark red spot above his knee. - -“I can’t do it, Bob,” he moaned. “There’s no use in your being hit, too, -though. Please leave me. Save yourself, anyway.” - -Robert suddenly sprang to his feet. “All right, I will leave you,” he -cried, and at full speed he ran swiftly toward the tree behind which -Deerfoot and his enemy were concealed. - - - - - CHAPTER XVIII - BETWEEN THE LINES - - -As Robert ran forward he caught a fleeting glimpse of Deerfoot. He saw -his Indian friend locked in a death struggle with his foe. Over and over -upon the ground the two men rolled, sometimes one on top and sometimes -the other. Neither had been able thus far to deal any decisive blow, and -each one was doing his utmost to use his knife or tomahawk. - -The sight spurred Robert forward, and a feeling of intense rage welled -up into his heart. His family had been murdered and his home destroyed. -His brother had been shot and now the last person to whom he could turn -on earth was struggling for his life with one of these same enemies of -his. All that had befallen him swept through Robert’s mind in a flash. -Red spots danced before his eyes and he was more angry than he had ever -been before in his life. - -He was afraid to shoot, however, for fear he might hit Deerfoot. The two -men were so entwined in each other’s embrace that it was sometimes hard -to distinguish one from the other. Neither one was aware of Robert’s -presence. It was not so with the other Indians, however. A hot fire was -directed at the daring young pioneer and only the deadly shooting of his -comrades saved him from a personal attack. - -Robert dodged behind the tree for protection while he cautiously peered -out. He was waiting his chance to step in and deal the blow that would -return Deerfoot victor in the struggle. The two men were straining every -nerve and every muscle in their effort to gain the mastery. The veins -stood out upon their foreheads, while great beads of perspiration -streamed from every pore. Their breath came in gasps and it seemed -impossible that human strength could endure such a test much longer. -Evidently the strugglers must soon weaken, and such proved to be the -case. - -The one that weakened first, however, was Deerfoot. His opponent had -grasped him by the throat and shut off his breath. With his breath gone -Deerfoot’s strength ebbed quickly. Little by little his resistance -ceased until by a supreme effort his opponent gained the upper hand and -in a short time he sat upon Deerfoot’s chest, his hands still clutching -the Pottowattomie’s windpipe. Deerfoot’s conqueror leered exultantly as -he reached for his knife to complete his work. - -This move, however, was Robert’s cue to act and he responded at once. -Grasping his rifle by the barrel with both hands the young volunteer -stepped out from behind the tree. He moved noiselessly and so intent was -his foe upon what he was doing that Robert’s actions escaped unnoticed. -He raised his gun and swinging it twice around brought it squarely down -upon the shaved head of his enemy. - -That was all. The Sac, without even so much as a groan, rolled over and -lay still upon the ground. His knife slipped from his hand and not a -muscle in his body quivered. He was dead. - -“Come, Deerfoot!” cried Robert. “Come quickly!” - -He grasped his friend by his hand and lifted him to his feet. For a -moment Deerfoot seemed dazed and he passed his hand over his throat. - -“Come on! Come on!” urged Robert. “Joe is lying out here wounded, and we -must look after him.” - -“Me come,” replied Deerfoot huskily. He turned and looked at his fallen -opponent, but Robert grasped his arm. He knew what was passing in his -red ally’s mind and he forestalled the impulse. - -“No scalping now,” he exclaimed. “We’ll be killed if we stay here any -longer. Please come, Deerfoot.” - -The bullets still sang about their heads. One struck Robert’s gun, -scarring the stock and tearing it almost from his grasp. Evidently there -was no time to lose. He caught hold of Deerfoot’s arm and half dragging -him hurried his friend from the perilous place. - -As they emerged from the shelter of the trees a shout of welcome from -their comrades and a yell of rage from their enemies at the same time -greeted them. The sound, however, scarcely made any impression upon the -two daring men. So intent were they upon the task at hand that nothing -else seemed of any consequence to them. - -“Bend low and follow me, Deerfoot,” cried Robert, loosing his hold on -the Pottowattomie’s arm. He started quickly toward the spot where Joseph -was lying and Deerfoot came close behind him. It was a new experience -for Robert to be giving orders to his redskinned friend, but the young -frontiersman enjoyed it none the less on that account. Deerfoot was -rapidly regaining his strength and composure, however, and Robert’s -supremacy threatened to be shortlived. - -Through the storm of leaden death they ran. A few seconds, which seemed -like hours to the young pioneer-soldier, elapsed, and they arrived at -the place where Joseph was lying. - -“Take his head. I’ll take his feet,” cried Robert. Joseph made no -objection and merely groaned as he was lifted from the ground and borne -rapidly in the direction of his own forces and of safety. - -“Stop here,” ordered Robert sharply, as they came to the fallen log -behind which he and his brother had taken refuge, a few moments before. -They came to an abrupt halt and as tenderly as possible placed Joseph -upon the ground. - -“How do you feel, Joe?” asked Robert, bending anxiously over his -brother. - -“Pretty weak,” replied Joseph in a husky voice. His face was white and -drawn with pain, but his jaw was set and all his will power was being -exerted. - -“He bleed much,” exclaimed Deerfoot. “Me fix him.” He quickly tore a -strip from his hunting shirt and fastened it around Joseph’s leg, just -above the wound. Exerting all his strength he then drew the bandage as -tightly as he was able so that the blood would be held back and as -little as possible should escape. Joseph seemed to be suffering more -pain as time went on. The first shock of the bullet had stunned him so -that his senses mostly were dulled to any feeling of physical suffering. -Not so now, however, for try as he might he could not help giving -evidence that he was in agony. - -“That’s better, Deerfoot,” Robert remarked. “Do you think he is wounded -badly?” - -“No,” replied Deerfoot shortly. “He bleed bad but not serious.” He had -slit Joseph’s trousers up the side so that the wound was exposed to -view. The bullet had passed through the fleshy part of the leg, tearing -an ugly hole, but it was easy to be seen that the trouble was not likely -to be lasting. - -“He’s bled enough at any rate,” exclaimed Robert grimly. “You look -almost as though you had one red trouser leg, Joe. Is that the new -style?” - -“I don’t know, Bob. I haven’t looked at it,” Joseph answered weakly. -Much of his strength had ebbed away with his blood, though the flow had -been largely checked by Deerfoot’s treatment. The Indian was now engaged -in bandaging the wound itself. His idea was to fix his young friend -temporarily so that he would be safe until he could receive much better -treatment. - -“Look at yourself, Joe,” urged Robert. “You’re certainly a sight.” - -With an effort Joseph raised himself upon one elbow and glanced at his -blood-stained leg. One look was enough, however, for with a quick intake -of his breath Joseph suddenly fainted away. - -“Now I’ve done it,” exclaimed Robert. “I ought to have known better than -to say a thing like that.” - -“He all right,” said Deerfoot stoically. - -“But he has fainted,” Robert protested. “How can we bring him to?” - -“No try,” said Deerfoot. “Let him stay fainted.” - -“Won’t it hurt him any?” - -“No,” said Deerfoot, and he had apparently dismissed the subject from -his mind, for he turned his back on the two brothers and glanced out -over the battlefield. - -As long as Black Hawk’s band remained in their present position the -three volunteers were safe where they were. They were crouched upon the -ground behind the log which provided ample protection. Behind them were -their own men, while they were well screened from the enemy. - -“How long are we going to stay here?” demanded Robert at length. - -Deerfoot made no answer, and to all outward appearances he did not even -hear the question. - -“How long are we going to stay here?” Robert repeated. - -“You want to leave?” asked Deerfoot mildly. - -“Well,” said Robert, “it’s growing dark and it doesn’t seem to me we -ought to stay here much longer. Some one of Black Hawk’s braves will -sneak around in back of us and we’ll be cut off if we are not careful.” - -“That right,” Deerfoot agreed, and he glanced at Joseph as he spoke. As -he did so, the wounded young pioneer opened his eyes and sighed heavily. - -“We’re going to carry you the rest of the way now, Joe,” Robert -announced cheerily. “We’ll start any time you say.” - -“I’m ready,” replied Joseph, at the same time trying to force a smile. - -“All right then, Deerfoot, let’s go,” said Robert. “We’ll carry him just -as we did before. You don’t mind if the trip is rough, do you, Joe? -We’ve got to travel fast, you know.” - -“The faster the better,” said Joseph. - -Deerfoot reconnoitered the nearby ground, but saw nothing to alarm him. -Everything was quiet, even the guns having ceased momentarily. - -“We go now,” announced Deerfoot, and he and Robert bent down to pick up -their wounded young companion. They were just lifting him from the -ground when a warning shout caused them to set him down quickly once -more. - -“What was that?” cried Robert. He immediately seized his rifle and held -it ready for instant use. Deerfoot, too, was instantly alert. - -“Red!” The call was repeated. It was John Mason’s voice and Robert -recognized it at once. The little band of scouts were not more than -thirty or forty yards distant so that conversation could easily be -carried on. - -“What is it?” called Robert. - -“Come back as quickly as you can!” shouted Mason. “I think there are two -Indians stealing up on you through the long grass.” - -“All right,” replied Robert. - -“We’d better hurry, Deerfoot,” he exclaimed. “They say some Indians are -creeping up on us here. We can’t waste any more time.” - -“We wasted some listening to Mason,” Joseph remarked. - -“I know it,” cried Robert impatiently. “Wouldn’t you think he could see -that we were starting when he yelled at us? We’ll have to hurry more -than ever now. Come on, Deerfoot,” he urged, and once more he bent down -and grasped Joseph by his ankles. - -“What’s the matter, Deerfoot?” he exclaimed angrily as the Pottowattomie -made no move to help him. - -Just at that moment, however, Deerfoot snatched his tomahawk from his -belt and hurled it with all his force. - - - - - CHAPTER XIX - A LIVELY SKIRMISH - - -Robert wheeled instantly to discover the cause of Deerfoot’s action. He -was not a second too soon, for, as he turned, a tomahawk whizzed past -his head, missing him only by a few inches. His sudden movement had -saved his life. - -As if springing from the ground itself, an Indian bore down upon him. -The redskin was scarcely ten feet distant when the startled boy first -caught sight of him. On he came with knife upraised, shouting his war -whoop. Fury was depicted in every line of the Indian’s countenance. -Robert had his rifle in his hand, but, he had no time to take aim, so -swiftly did his enemy charge. Instinctively, however, the young -volunteer started to raise the gun to his shoulder. He realized at once -that he would not have time to take aim, and accordingly before the -barrel was above the level of his hips he fired. - -Even at so short a distance the bullet went wild. The report of the gun, -the flash and the smoke checked the Indian momentarily, however, and -this check undoubtedly saved Robert’s life. Following the discharge of -the gun, almost instantly Deerfoot hurled himself through the air upon -the body of the onrushing Sac. The two men came together with a thud and -a moment later they were struggling on the ground. - -Robert was so stunned by the unexpected turn of events that he merely -stood and looked at the fight going on at his feet. Joseph, on the other -hand, had not lost his wits for even an instant. - -“Jump in there and help Deerfoot, Bob!” he cried. “What are you standing -around doing nothing for?” - -To Robert it had seemed as if this contest was to be just like the one -he had decided in Deerfoot’s favor only a few moments before. It was -hard for him to distinguish one Indian from the other, but he stood over -the two, ready to follow Joseph’s instructions the moment an opportunity -should offer. - -Deerfoot’s opponent had a long knife in his hand. He struggled -desperately to get a chance to use it, while Deerfoot fought with all -his strength to prevent this move. He had seized his adversary by the -wrist and clung desperately to the hand which was holding the deadly -knife. - -“Knock that knife out of his hand!” called Joseph excitedly. He partly -raised himself from the ground and even tried to rise to his feet. This -was out of the question, however, and he sank back with a groan. - -“Rap him on the knuckles! What’s the matter with you, Bob?” he cried. -“Why don’t you do something?” - -As the hand which held the knife swung in his direction Robert did shake -off his lethargy and was able to do something. He struck the hostile -redman with all his force directly across the wrist. He used a stone -which he had picked up for the purpose. The blow was a severe one and it -accomplished its object. The fingers relaxed their grip on the handle -and the knife slipped to the ground. - -“Grab it, quick!” directed Joseph. “Don’t let him have it again!” - -Robert pounced upon the weapon and having availed himself of it turned -to use it on his enemy. It was not necessary, however. The blow which -Robert had dealt had broken the Indian’s wrist and rendered his hand -useless. Deerfoot found no difficulty in dealing with an opponent who -now had the use of only one arm. - -He quickly disposed of his adversary and both Robert and Joseph turned -their backs with a shudder as Deerfoot tore the scalp from his victim’s -head. There was no use in arguing with him about the act now, however. - -“Let’s hurry!” exclaimed Robert, when Deerfoot had completed his -gruesome task. - -“No go yet,” replied Deerfoot. He quickly stepped over the log which had -sheltered them all so well, and parting the bushes disclosed to view -another Indian who lay lifeless on the ground. Deerfoot immediately set -to work to tear his bloody trophy from the head of this brave also. - -“Where did that Indian come from?” exclaimed Robert in surprise. - -“Didn’t you see Deerfoot throw his tomahawk?” asked Joseph. - -“Yes, but I didn’t know it was at that man.” - -“Certainly it was,” said Joseph. “His aim was evidently good, too.” - -“I should say so. Just suppose it hadn’t been though. I hate to think of -what might have happened to us if he had missed.” Robert shivered at the -mere thought of such a thing. - -At this moment Deerfoot reappeared, his work completed. “We go now,” he -exclaimed quickly. - -“It’s about time,” said Robert as he bent over to pick up his brother. -Once more he grasped him by the ankles while Deerfoot held him under his -arms. Thus burdened, they turned and started back to the shelter of the -trees. - -“Come along,” shouted John Mason cheerily. “We’ll keep watch that no one -else gets close to you. Come as fast as you can and keep low.” - -“I’m low enough,” exclaimed Joseph, as his back bumped upon a mound of -earth. - -“Sorry, Joe, I didn’t mean to scrape you,” Robert apologized. - -“Don’t worry about me,” said Joseph. “You can bump me all you want if -you will only get me back quickly. My wound feels better now since -Deerfoot bandaged it.” - -Stumbling and tripping often, they hurried on their way. Shouts and -words of encouragement were flung at them from their comrades and served -as a spur to the three friends. Soon they reached their original -positions where a warm welcome was waiting for them. - -“Great work!” cried Walt, risking his life to run forward and shake -hands with all three of the volunteers. “You all did splendidly.” - -“Indeed you did!” echoed John Mason. “We are very proud of you.” - -“Who can fix Joe’s leg?” demanded Robert. He had no interest in the -words of praise being heaped upon them. At least, his brother’s welfare -was the first thought that came into his mind. - -“Is he hurt badly?” exclaimed Walt anxiously. - -“I think not,” replied Robert. “It seems like a flesh wound, but it -ought to be attended to.” - -“Of course it had,” said John Mason. “Some one help me carry him back -here a little way and I’ll soon fix him up.” - -Once more Joseph was lifted from the ground and borne farther back from -the firing line. John Mason set to work at once and it was easy to see -from the way he conducted himself that he was an expert in the art of -looking after wounds. In a very few moments he had doctored Joseph so -successfully that he was able to bear some weight upon his injured limb. -With two men supporting him he was even able to hobble along for a few -steps. - -“Do you think you can ride your horse?” asked John Mason anxiously. - -“I know I can,” replied Joseph. - -“That’s good news. If we have to run for it you’ll certainly need The -Swallow to help you out.” - -“I can shoot a gun, too,” exclaimed Joseph. - -“Maybe you can,” admitted Mason. “At the same time you’re not going to -try it just now.” - -“Let me have just one shot,” he pleaded. - -“What’s the use, Joe?” demanded Robert. “It will be dark in half an hour -and the fight will be over. We don’t need you. The Indians are beaten. -Why, we killed three ourselves and they won’t risk any more men.” - -“Don’t be too sure about that,” cautioned Mason. “It’s true that night -is coming on and I don’t believe they’d try to attack us in the dark, -but I have a feeling that they may make one last try before night really -falls.” - -The firing had slackened in the last few moments and there seemed to be -a decided lull in the hostilities. This state of affairs was not of long -duration, however, for suddenly the war whoop sounded again and the -firing recommenced. John Mason was right. The Indians were making a last -desperate attempt to overcome their foes. - -“You stay here, Joe,” exclaimed Robert. “Here, sit behind this tree and -we will come after you if anything happens.” - -“I don’t worry about that,” said Joseph. “Please don’t let anything -happen, though.” - -“Not if we can help it,” exclaimed Mason. “Come on, Bob,” he urged. -“They need us out there in front I guess.” - -Walt and Deerfoot already had taken their places on the firing line -again and Robert and Mason soon joined them. The Indians were closer now -and were evidently striving desperately to strike a telling blow at the -white men. - -The approaching darkness was a great aid to the Indians, who crept -determinedly nearer and nearer to the band of scouts. It was hard to -discover them in the dusk and every moment it seemed as if the flash of -a hostile rifle came from a new place. The flash came and then when the -scouts’ fire was directed at the spot the Indian apparently had moved. -The next shot would come from a spot ten or fifteen feet to the left or -right; it was impossible to tell which beforehand. - -“They’ll outflank us,” exclaimed John Mason anxiously. “If they ever get -around to our rear we won’t stand any chance at all.” - -Already three of the scouts had fallen. Two of them were dead and the -other, a man named William Reach, was mortally wounded. What the -casualties on the Indian side were it was impossible to tell. At any -rate the advance had not been checked. Using every bit of cover, the -redmen pressed forward relentlessly. Every moment the position of the -scouts became more untenable. - -“We’ll have to fall back,” exclaimed Walt at length. “Go slow, though,” -he called, “and keep your guns busy all the time.” - -Fighting every inch of the distance, the scouts retreated. From tree to -tree they went, doggedly and stubbornly contesting the ground with their -opponents. The Indians were not to be denied, however, and it was soon -apparent that the white men must run for their lives. They were -outnumbered by their foes and unless they made their escape soon it was -evident that they would be caught in a trap. - -Walt turned to Robert. “You and Deerfoot go and put your brother on his -horse,” he ordered. “Then you both get on your ponies and run for it. We -will follow right behind you.” - -“Don’t you need us here?” exclaimed Robert, loath to leave his place on -the front. - -“Yes, we need you,” admitted Walt. “Joseph needs you more, though. Go to -him as fast as you can. You’d better go quickly, too. Things may be -pretty hot for us here in a few moments.” - -Robert delayed no longer. Summoning Deerfoot he hurried back to the -place where they had left Joseph seated under the tree. On the way he -saw two of his comrades bending over William Reach, the man who had been -wounded. From their attitude he could see plainly that another member of -the band had breathed his last. - - - - - CHAPTER XX - A MIDNIGHT RIDE - - -“What’s the matter, Bob?” exclaimed Joseph as he spied his brother and -Deerfoot hastening in his direction. - -“Everything’s the matter,” cried Robert. “The Indians are attacking us -for all they are worth and we’ll be surrounded unless we get out of here -pretty quick.” - -“Get the ponies and I’m ready,” said Joseph eagerly. - -Deerfoot and Robert hastened to obey and in a very short time returned. -Each one rode his own pony and Robert led The Swallow, holding the reins -with his left hand. He quickly dismounted and Deerfoot did the same. - -“Now,” cried Robert cheerily, “just let us get hold of you, Joe, and -you’ll be in your saddle before you know it.” - -“Don’t worry about me,” exclaimed Joseph. “I’m almost as good as I ever -was.” - -“That’s the way to talk,” said Robert heartily. “Are you all ready now?” - -“All ready.” - -Deerfoot and Robert soon lifted Joseph into the saddle, where he seemed -to be more at ease than he had been on the ground. His two friends -watched him anxiously. - -“Think you can stand it?” inquired Robert. - -“I know I can.” - -“Then we go,” exclaimed Deerfoot, and a moment later they were cantering -swiftly toward the open prairie. - -“Where are we going?” demanded Joseph. - -“We go back to Dixon’s,” said Deerfoot. - -“Who said to do that?” exclaimed Robert in surprise. “I haven’t heard of -anything like that.” - -“Walt say go there,” explained Deerfoot. - -“What about our dispatches?” demanded Joseph. - -“He say band split. One half go Fort Armstrong. One half go Dixon’s. We -go Dixon’s.” - -“You’re sure about that, are you?” inquired Robert earnestly. - -“Me sure,” said Deerfoot confidently. - -“What do you suppose his idea is?” Robert asked of his brother. He -always had the feeling that Joseph would know the reason for almost -anything. He had a great amount of confidence in his level-headed older -brother. - -“I don’t know,” said Joseph doubtfully. “Perhaps he thinks that the -smaller the band the less chance there is of discovery. If we split in -two we may throw the Indians off the trail.” - -“That’s true,” agreed Robert. “I suppose that was Walt’s idea, too.” - -“How many of us are there anyway?” asked Joseph. “We started out with -ten. Have we lost any men?” - -“We certainly have. There are only six left now.” - -“What!” exclaimed Joseph. “You mean to say that four men were killed?” - -“Indeed they were,” said Robert sadly. “There are four men back there in -those woods who’ll never do any more Indian fighting.” - -“How about John Mason?” demanded Joseph. “Don’t tell me he was killed.” - -“He was all right a few moments ago.” - -“I hope nothing happens to him,” said Joseph earnestly. “He’s too fine a -man to lose.” - -At this moment they emerged from the swamp onto the prairie. Night had -fallen and the full moon was just appearing over the rim of the horizon. -The three fugitives were thus assured of some light to guide them on -their long ride. Well it was too, for at present it was not safe to -halt. The opinion seemed to be that their foes would not attempt any -pursuit, but of this they could not be sure. Their one idea was to put -as much distance between them and their enemies as the condition of -Joseph’s wound would permit. Thus far he was bearing up splendidly, but -he was weak and could not be counted on for too great an exertion. - -In silence they rode most of the time. Hour after hour passed and mile -after mile was covered. The hardy ponies seemed tireless and with -apparent ease maintained their steady gait across the plains. A halt was -called about midnight so that men and horses might have a breathing -spell, but after a short rest the journey was resumed. Not a sign of the -enemy had they seen, but there was always the danger of encountering -roving bands and the three fugitives were all intent upon reaching -Dixon’s Ferry at the earliest possible moment. - -As the first faint streaks of dawn appeared over the expanse of prairie -the little settlement on the Rock River came into view. The sight -spurred the tired travelers on and in a short time they were once more -in the town and safe again. Safe at least until they should start out on -their next expedition. - -“Well, Joe,” exclaimed Robert, as he and Deerfoot lifted the wounded -young volunteer from the back of The Swallow. “How do you feel after -your ride?” - -“All right,” said Joseph and promptly fainted. He had suffered much pain -all through the long, hard night and had kept up on nerve alone. Now -that the journey was ended he could resist no longer, but gave up -entirely. - -Robert and Deerfoot laid him tenderly upon the ground. “You stay here, -Deerfoot,” exclaimed Robert, “and I’ll go and see about having Joe -looked after in the hospital here.” - -He hastened away and soon returned to say that all arrangements had been -made to receive his brother in the hospital. In a short space of time -Joseph was transferred to the house which temporarily served for that -purpose. When Robert and Deerfoot were convinced that all arrangements -had been made for his comfort, they left him there and sought their own -quarters. - -Dixon’s Ferry now presented a forlorn appearance. General Atkinson with -the army had moved on up the Rock River, leaving Major Stillman’s corps -at Dixon’s Ferry to care for the wounded and to guard the supplies. No -sooner had Atkinson left, however, than practically every man in -Stillman’s corps deserted and returned to his home. Disgracefully -defeated, they now added further disgrace to their cowardly record by -quitting their post. - -The settlement was deserted except for a few of the men who had enough -pride and patriotism to stick to their duty. All the supplies for the -armies of Generals Atkinson and Whiteside were thus left practically -unguarded. They were at the mercy of Black Hawk, should he choose to -attack in force. - -Robert was indignant and so was everyone else who remained. This did not -bring the men back, however. Panic seemed to have seized the whole -country. Black Hawk’s victory at Sycamore Creek had inspired the whole -region with terror. Settlers fled from their homes, in many cases -leaving all their valuables behind them. Sometimes even worse things -than that happened. If they had not been so tragic they might have been -amusing, as the following story, told to Robert by one of the men, -illustrates. - -There was one family that lived near the Iroquois River in the -northeastern part of Illinois. They owned no horses, but had a large -family of small children, eleven in all. In the course of their flight -it was necessary for them to cross the river. Coming to the bank they -found it was impossible for the small children to cross unaided. The -stream was high and rapid, so that the father had to carry the little -ones over one at a time. Trip after trip he made until he had them all -across, as he thought. They were about to continue their flight when a -cry from the opposite bank arrested their attention. - -Standing on the bank of the stream and crying piteously was little -Susan, just four years old. In the excitement she had been overlooked. -The father at once plunged into the stream again to rescue his child, -when the mother, seeing it, cried out, “Never mind Susan; we have -succeeded in getting ten over, which is more than we expected at -first—and we can better spare Susan than you, my dear.” So poor little -Susan was abandoned by her panic-stricken family and left to the mercy -of the savages. No harm came to her, however, for one of the neighbors -out hunting found her and took charge of her. Thus the poor child’s life -was saved, though not through any help from her family who had treated -her so shabbily. - -This was a sample of the conditions existing on the border at that time, -however. The settlers were in a constant state of panic. The rustle of a -wild animal in the underbrush; the howl of a wolf in the prairie; the -fall of a forest bough were enough to blanch the cheeks of the bravest -men. - -“It makes me so mad!” exclaimed Robert hotly. “The women and children -can lose their nerve if they want, but when the men do, too, there is no -excuse for them.” - -He was sitting beside Joseph’s cot in the hospital the next day after -their arrival, and was giving full vent to his feelings. - -“I know it,” replied Joseph. “It isn’t right at all.” - -“Isn’t right!” exclaimed Robert. “Well, I should say not! Even the -troops are losing heart. A fine bunch of cowards we enlisted with, I -should say.” - -“There is no use in getting so excited about it, Bob,” said Joseph -quietly. - -“Yes, there is too. It does me good to say what I think, anyway.” - -“Perhaps that’s true,” laughed Joseph. “At any rate you and I are going -to do our duty, no matter what the others may do.” - -“We certainly are,” cried Robert. “Deerfoot will stand by us, too.” - -“Of course he will. What does he think about things anyway?” - -“How do I know? Did you ever hear Deerfoot say what he thought about -anything like this? I never did myself.” - -“Nor I,” agreed Joseph. “He doesn’t express himself very freely, does -he?” - -“He certainly does not,” Robert agreed. “He not only doesn’t express his -opinion, but he doesn’t say anything at all. You know how I like to -talk, and it gets on my nerves to talk and talk to Deerfoot and have him -grunt and grunt and once in a while say yes or no.” - -“You mustn’t mind that,” laughed Joseph. “That is only his way and you -know what a good friend of ours he really is.” - -“Certainly I do. Just at present, though, I don’t feel like sitting -around and doing nothing. There isn’t even anyone to talk to hardly and -I want to talk at least.” - -“We’ll have lots to do in a little while, I guess,” said Joseph. “This -war isn’t over by any means yet and just as quick as my leg is better we -can look around and find something.” - -“When are you going to be well?” - -“I don’t know,” replied Joseph. “The doctor said in less than two weeks -anyway, and probably before then. If anything very important happens -before that time you can be sure that I’ll be in it, wound or no wound.” - -“You’ll be all right soon, I guess,” said Robert cheerily. “I hope so -anyway. General Atkinson is chasing Black Hawk up the Rock and you and I -don’t want to miss any of the fun.” - -“We won’t miss any; don’t worry about that. When Black Hawk gets into -those swamps up at the head of the Rock River near the lakes, you can be -sure it will take more than two weeks to drive him out. We’ll see all -the ‘fun’ we want, all right.” - -“I hope so,” exclaimed Robert earnestly. “And now I must leave,” he -added as he rose to go. “Good-bye, Joe. I’ll come in again soon.” - -“Good-bye, Bob,” said Joseph. “If Deerfoot talks too much, tell me and -I’ll ask him to stop.” - -“I only wish he’d start,” laughed Robert, as he left his brother’s room -and made his way back to the tent which he and Deerfoot shared. - - - - - CHAPTER XXI - THE FIGHT ON THE PEKATONIKA - - -Two weeks passed and Joseph was entirely healed of his wound. A slight -limp at times was the only trace that remained and that promised to -disappear soon. He was up and as cheerful as ever. They were still at -Dixon’s Ferry and the inaction did not gall Joseph as much as it did his -impetuous brother. - -He spent much of his time with The Swallow, grooming and caring for the -beautiful pony. He had taught the intelligent animal to come at his -whistle and most of the time the horse followed at his heels in much the -same manner a dog would do. Every day Joseph’s pride in his mount grew. -He never ceased to wonder at the easy gait and the wonderful speed The -Swallow exhibited on the frequent rides they took over the prairies. - -There had been no organized fighting of late. General Atkinson had -returned to Dixon’s Ferry as soon as he learned of the desertion of -Major Stillman’s corps. He had left General Whiteside to carry on the -pursuit of Black Hawk, while he returned with the regulars to protect -the supplies left at Dixon’s Ferry. - -Whiteside’s men soon became tired of soldiering, however. Black Hawk had -crossed the northern border of Illinois and was now in Michigan. He had -gone into the unexplored and almost impenetrable swamps of the north, -the men declared, and could never be captured. At any rate they said -that, being Illinois volunteers, they were not required to serve outside -the state. They also claimed they had enlisted for only a month and that -their time of service had expired. - -After two or three days of fruitless skirmishing and before they had -come to the Michigan state line, a council of officers was held and -further search for Black Hawk was abandoned. They had penetrated only as -far as the Kishwaukee River, not many miles north of the place where -Stillman was defeated on Sycamore Creek. However, they turned and -marched south to Ottawa, where, at their own request, they were mustered -out of service by Governor Reynolds on the twenty-seventh and -twenty-eighth of May, 1832. - -On their way from the Kishwaukee to Ottawa the militiamen stopped at a -farm on Indian creek where a few days before a terrible massacre of -Whites had taken place. The mutilated bodies of fifteen men, women and -children lay unburied upon the ground. This frightful scene instead of -inspiring the troops to renewed action against the Indians, still -further discouraged them. They were more eager than ever to give up the -fight. - -Governor Reynolds was active, however, and at once called for a fresh -levy of “at least two thousand troops.” These men were to assemble at -Beardstown, a place on the Illinois River south of Dixon’s Ferry, and -were to serve through the war. Meanwhile the government at Washington -ordered a thousand regulars under General Winfield Scott to proceed from -their stations on the coast to the seat of war. - -General Atkinson had been greatly disturbed by the failure of the first -campaign and the cowardice of the militia shamed him deeply. At his -earnest appeal three hundred mounted volunteer rangers agreed to remain -in the field and protect the line of Illinois settlements until the new -army could be mobilized. Colonel Henry Frye was in command of this -company, and Joseph, Robert and Deerfoot lost no time in enrolling -themselves with this band. - -“It sounds as though we’d find something to do with them,” was Robert’s -way of explaining the move. “We’ve been idle long enough and we can’t -get very much revenge if we just sit and do nothing.” - -“You’re right, Bob,” agreed Joseph. “My leg is all right now and I’m -just as anxious as you are to be active again.” - -“Oh, no you’re not,” remarked Robert. “It isn’t possible for any one to -be as eager about it as I am.” - -“Well, we won’t argue it anyway,” laughed Joseph. “We’ll compromise and -say we’re both eager.” - -“Does that suit you, Deerfoot?” inquired Robert, at the same time -winking slyly at his brother. - -“Ugh,” grunted Deerfoot. - -“Does Joseph’s suggestion suit you?” Robert persisted. - -“Sure, me suit,” replied the Pottowattomie seriously, and try as he -might Robert was unable to get any other answer from the red man. The -young frontiersman was full of mischief and took special delight in -teasing Deerfoot. The Indian took everything seriously and never seemed -to be able to appreciate the fact that white boys sometimes said things -in fun that they did not mean. - -“Oh, you’re hopeless,” exclaimed Robert in mock despair. “Haven’t you -any sense of humor at all, Deerfoot?” - -“Huh?” grunted the Indian blankly. - -“Never mind,” laughed Robert. “You’re all right, Deerfoot, and if I -meant all I said the way you do I guess I’d be a better citizen than I -am now.” - -Deerfoot did not understand what all this talk was about and he looked -in amazement from one to the other of the boys. They were much amused at -his bewilderment, but they soon ceased teasing him. It always made them -feel that they were taking an unfair advantage of their faithful friend, -and like all true sportsmen they derived no pleasure from a contest that -was unequal. - -“I wonder if there has been any fighting lately,” said Joseph a few -moments later. - -“Of course there has,” exclaimed Robert. “It is going on all the time -and at this very minute I suppose some poor family is being murdered.” - -“Where?” demanded Deerfoot innocently. - -“I don’t know where,” said Robert. “I just said I supposed some family -somewhere was being murdered.” - -“Ugh,” grunted Deerfoot. He asked no more questions and merely shook his -head in token that he did not understand. - -The three friends were seated under a large oak tree. The time was -mid-afternoon and they were enjoying the warm sunshine and the fine June -weather. It was a lazy day and the three volunteers felt lazy -themselves. They had done nothing for so long they had acquired the -habit of being idle. At the same time the inaction was not entirely to -their liking, as was evidenced by their conversation. - -“I wish something would happen,” yawned Robert. “I must say I’m bored.” - -As he finished speaking a man was seen approaching on horseback. This -was not an unusual sight in itself, but when time hangs heavy on one’s -hands almost anything is of interest. The three friends sat up and -watched the horseman as he came near. - -“Why, it’s John Mason!” exclaimed Joseph suddenly. “Where do you suppose -he has been?” - -“He’ll probably tell us in a couple of minutes,” said Robert, rising to -his feet. - -Mason rode straight to the tree where the three men were and quickly -dismounted. He shook hands heartily all around and was accorded a most -enthusiastic welcome. Innumerable questions were asked of him by the two -brothers, but he made no attempt to answer them at that time. “You two -boys are regular interrogation points,” he exclaimed laughingly. “Just -give me a chance to catch my breath and I’ll try to reply to some of -your questions.” - -“Have you been in any more fights?” demanded Robert. - -“I should say I had.” - -“Tell us about it quick,” Robert insisted, but Joseph restrained him. - -“Give Mr. Mason a chance, Bob,” he said. “Don’t you see he is tired and -wants to rest? Perhaps he doesn’t want to tell us about it anyway.” - -“Yes, I do, too,” exclaimed Mason. “First of all, though, I want to say -we got our dispatches to Fort Armstrong safely and didn’t even seen an -Indian on the way.” - -“We didn’t either,” said Joseph. “We came back here without a bit of -trouble.” - -“I see you are safe and sound. How is the wounded leg?” - -“As good as ever,” replied Joseph and he executed a war dance to prove -the truth of his statement. - -“Good for you,” cried John Mason. “Now, are you ready to hear about the -fight?” - -“I am,” exclaimed Robert quickly. - -“All right then,” said Mason. “Here goes. I had been sent to Fort -Hamilton from Fort Armstrong and was there on the fourteenth of June. -That was just about a week ago. Word came to us on the next day that a -scouting party of Sacs had killed five men the day before at the -Spafford farm. The farm lies on the Pekatonika River, not far from Fort -Hamilton. Colonel Henry Dodge was in command of the brigade stationed at -the fort and at once started in pursuit of the Indians. Never being -willing to be left out of anything I asked to be allowed to go along and -received the desired permission. - -“We set out with all possible speed and soon came upon the trail of the -Indians. In fact we were so close to them at one time that we could see -some of the warriors. We had no chance to shoot, however, and the -Indians fled with amazing speed. They crossed and recrossed the -Pekatonika several times, but we pressed them closer and closer, and at -length when they saw that escape was impossible they made a stand. We -immediately dismounted and cautiously picked our way forward. The Sacs -had taken up their position in a dense thicket and were waiting for us. - -“Colonel Dodge intended that we should fire a volley and then charge. -The Indians, however, were on the lookout for us and fired first. One of -our soldiers, a man named Apple, was killed, and a man named Jenkins was -wounded. We never let up on them for a moment, however, and several were -shot as they attempted to escape by swimming the river. When the fight -started I think our forces were about equal in strength, but the Indians -had been in the river so much that many of them had got their powder wet -and so their guns were useless.” - -“It should have been easy to finish them then,” remarked Robert. - -“Don’t you think so!” exclaimed Mason warmly. “Their guns may have been -no good to them, but they still had knives and they tried to close in on -us with those. They fought desperately, but many of them were shot down. -One big, burly brave came plunging directly at me. He had his gun to his -shoulder and when only a few yards distant he pulled the trigger. The -powder was wet, however, and it did not go off. I raised my rifle, but -my powder was also damp and so nothing happened when I tried to fire, -either. Meanwhile, knife in hand, the savage came toward me. My case was -desperate, but I still had my revolver and when he was but a few scant -feet away I drew it and shot him down.” - -“Whew!” exclaimed Joseph, “That was pretty close, wasn’t it?” - -“Too close to be comfortable,” said Mason grimly. “I can tell you I was -frightened there for a couple of seconds.” - -“You had good reason to be,” agreed Robert. “But tell me,” he continued, -“how did the fight finally end?” - -“As far as I know every one of the Indians was killed. Of course I can’t -be sure of that, but I don’t think a single one escaped. Our men fought -like demons that day.” - -“That’s the way to fight!” exclaimed Robert. “At least that’s the way to -do when you’re fighting demons.” - -“All Indians aren’t demons,” laughed Mason. “Just look at Deerfoot -here.” - -“No, he isn’t one, I know,” agreed Robert. “You can fight like one just -the same, can’t you, Deerfoot?” - -“Ugh,” grunted the Pottowattomie, much embarrassed by the attention -being paid him. - -“If you had been as near to him in that fight the other day as I was,” -Robert continued, “you’d have thought he was a demon all right.” - -“We’re glad he’s on our side, I guess,” remarked Joseph earnestly. - -“We certainly are,” echoed Robert. “How many men did you lose in that -fight on the Pekatonika?” he asked, turning to Mason once more. - -“Three men killed and one wounded. That wasn’t so bad considering what -we did to the Indians, was it?” - -“I should say not,” exclaimed Robert. - -At that moment a messenger came up to the place where they were seated -and handed a note to Joseph. The young volunteer tore it open at once -and eagerly scanned the contents, while the others watched him with deep -interest. - - - - - CHAPTER XXII - APPLE RIVER FORT - - -“We leave for Galena at once,” announced Joseph when he had finished -reading his communication. - -“Good!” exclaimed Robert, immediately jumping to his feet. “At last we -are going to do something.” - -“Who is ordered to go?” asked Mason. - -“Why, Bob, Deerfoot and I,” replied Joseph. “I wish you were going too.” - -“So do I,” exclaimed Mason. “I think I’ll see if I can arrange it.” - -“Go on,” urged Robert. “Four is just the right number and we need you -along with us.” - -“All right,” agreed Mason. “You three go get ready to start and I’ll see -what can be done. I hope I’ll be with you.” - -“We do, too,” said Joseph eagerly. “We’ll see you soon.” - -They hastened away and were soon busied with their preparations for the -journey. This task did not take long, however, and they were soon ready -to leave. They were engaged in saddling their horses when John Mason -rode joyously up to the spot where they were standing. - -“It’s all right, boys,” he announced. “I am going with you.” - -“Fine!” exclaimed Joseph and Robert in one breath. Deerfoot even relaxed -so far as to show that he too was pleased to have John Mason a member of -the party. - -“Do you know where your errand is at Galena?” Mason inquired of Joseph. - -“We are to take some dispatches to a Colonel Strode. Do you know him?” - -“Yes, indeed. I think he is in command there, isn’t he?” - -“I can’t say as to that,” replied Joseph. “At any rate he is the man we -are to see.” - -“You haven’t got the dispatches yet, have you?” asked Robert. - -“No. I am going after them now. I’ll meet you right here in about ten -minutes and then we’ll be all ready to start.” - -The young volunteer swung himself gracefully into his saddle and a -moment later The Swallow was bearing him swiftly toward headquarters. -True to his word he was back again in ten minutes and without further -delay the four horsemen set out. They soon crossed the Rock River and -struck across country for Galena. - -So long as enough light remained for them to see their way they kept on. -They had not started until late afternoon, however, so before a great -many miles had been covered it became necessary to call a halt. Camp was -pitched and preparations made for the night. Lots were drawn and the -night divided into four parts, each member of the party standing guard -for one quarter of the time. Though no sign of the enemy had been seen -it was felt to be very necessary to have a watch. Roving bands of Black -Hawk’s warriors infested the country and it was never possible to tell -just when and where they would be encountered. - -Soon after daylight the journey was continued. The little band kept -close together and a sharp lookout was maintained at all times. They -followed the old trail from Chicago to Galena and toward noon came to -Kellogg’s Grove Fort, on Plum River. They stopped there for their -noonday meal and then soon after proceeded on their way. Excellent -progress was made and several hours before sundown they spied a small -blockhouse, called Apple River Fort, about fourteen miles east of -Galena. - -“That’s Apple River Fort!” exclaimed John Mason as the sturdy little -building appeared in the distance. “We’ve made good time and we’ll be in -Galena before long.” - -“If we reach there before dark it will be time enough,” said Joseph. - -“Plenty of time,” agreed Mason. “Why——” - -The sharp report of a rifle interrupted him. He was half turned about in -his saddle and held the reins loosely in one hand. His right hand rested -on his horse’s back as he looked around at his companions. The rifle -ball struck him squarely in the right forearm and nearly precipitated -him from the saddle. At the same time his horse jumped and only superb -horsemanship saved the man from being thrown to the ground. - -“Are you hurt?” cried Robert anxiously. - -“In the arm. It isn’t anything,” said Mason quickly. - -“Can you ride all right?” demanded Joseph. - -“Of course I can.” - -“Then we’d better waste no time. Just look back there!” - -One glance was sufficient. Behind them and coming on at full speed was a -war party of over one hundred Indians. Once more the two brothers heard -the war whoop resound over the plains and again they fled for their -lives. - -“Make for the fort!” cried Mason. He set spurs to his horse and closely -followed by the three others raced for the blockhouse looming up before -them. The yells of the Indians sounded in their ears, while bullets cut -the air all about them. - -Joseph soon outdistanced the others, owing to the superior speed of The -Swallow, and he was the first to arrive at the fort. His comrades were -not far behind, however, and as they came within the protection of the -stockade they were greeted by a cheer from the occupants who had watched -the thrilling race with breathless interest. At the same time a volley -from the rifles of the defenders caused the Indians to halt abruptly. - -A moment later the four messengers were inside the fort and were -preparing to assist in its defense. Men, women and children were there, -all gathered from the nearby cabins and surrounding farms. John Mason’s -wound quickly received attention and was found to be not at all serious. -When it had been bathed and bound up he was even able to handle his gun. - -“Whew! We reached here just in time, I should say,” exclaimed Joseph, -wiping his brow. - -“Yes, but wasn’t that fun?” said Robert excitedly. “It certainly was -great sport racing those fellows.” - -“Now that it’s over, it was all right,” agreed Joseph. “I’d hate to have -to do that every day though.” - -“Let’s lend a hand here,” exclaimed Robert eagerly. “There are a couple -of portholes over there we can take care of. Look at Deerfoot; he is -already as busy as he can be.” - -The inside of the fort presented a curious scene. At every porthole was -a man with a rifle. As fast as they could load they fired out at the -horde of yelling savages, who in turn were showering bullets on the -walls of the stockade. Powder was plentiful, but the defenders were -short of bullets. Fortunately a supply of lead had been received from -Galena only an hour before, however, and the women were now busied in -molding bullets. As fast as they could they melted the lead and molded -it into rifle balls. The men were gallant in their defense, but so also -were the women. They worked like beavers and had it not been for their -splendid efforts the fort must surely have fallen. - -The Indians were on all sides. Every bit of cover seemed to hide one of -the red men. A steady fire was kept up against the fort, but, thanks to -the thickness and strength of its walls, the bullets could not -penetrate. At the same time the heroic efforts of its defenders kept the -Indians from attacking too recklessly. - -An officer named Captain Stone was in command of the fort. He went from -one to another of the men, urging them to still greater efforts and -encouraging everyone by his air of quiet confidence and courage. Joseph -ran short of bullets and had gone for more. As he was receiving a fresh -supply, Captain Stone approached the spot where he was standing. - -“That was a narrow escape you had, young man,” he remarked. - -“Yes, sir,” replied Joseph, touching his cap. “We have had so many -lately, though, that we are sort of becoming used to them.” - -“What is your name?” inquired Captain Stone. - -“Joseph Hall.” - -“Are you the young man who owns The Swallow?” - -“Yes, sir.” - -“I’ve heard of you, then. You are famous all along the frontier. Were -you on The Swallow when you came in here?” - -“Yes,” replied Joseph, much pleased by the captain’s remarks. “There -stands The Swallow right now.” And he pointed to a corner of the fort -where the horses were tethered. - -“I must go and see him, when this fight is over. That is, if we win.” - -“Of course we’ll win,” exclaimed Joseph. “Don’t you think so?” - -“Unless they set fire to us.” - -“You don’t think they’ll do that, do you? Why, they couldn’t get close -enough to us at any rate.” - -“After dark they might. Still, I don’t believe they will,” Captain Stone -continued. “The blaze could be seen for miles and would bring a swarm of -troops down upon them in a very short time.” - -Captain Stone hurried on and Joseph resumed his place at the porthole -once more. Every gun was needed, as the men in the fort numbered only -about twenty-five, while the Indians from all appearances had at least -four times that number. Several of the red men had been either killed or -wounded, for every few moments one of them could be seen being carried -off the field of battle. So far no one inside the fort had even been -wounded and the fight had been going on for at least a half-hour. - -This happy state of affairs did not last long, however, for hardly had -Joseph returned to his post when a bullet penetrated the porthole next -to the one Robert defended. The man stationed there had just raised his -head to take aim when the bullet struck him. He fell back, and even -before the two boys could spring to his assistance, he died. - -Almost at the same moment a man on the opposite side of the fort was -shot. He too had been peering out of the porthole, but fortunately the -ball just grazed his head, inflicting only a slight scalp wound. These -occurrences only served to increase the ardor of the defenders, however. -Every man returned to his task with renewed energy and the fire from the -fort continued even more furiously than before. - -“Black Hawk out there,” said Deerfoot quietly to Joseph a few moments -later. - -“What!” exclaimed Joseph. “Black Hawk himself?” - -“Yes.” - -“Are you sure?” demanded Joseph. “Did you see him yourself?” - -“Me see him sure.” - -“Show him to me.” - -“No see him now,” said Deerfoot. - -“Did you hear that, Bob?” cried Joseph. “Deerfoot says he saw Black Hawk -himself out there.” - -“You did?” cried Robert excitedly to Deerfoot. “Show him to me and let -me take a shot at him.” - -“Me take shot at him,” said Deerfoot. “No hit him though. He gone now.” - -“All the others seem to be leaving too,” exclaimed Joseph, after a -careful glance out of the porthole which he was guarding. - -Sure enough, the Indians did appear to be withdrawing. Their fire was -slackening and they evidently were convinced that the sacrifice -necessary to take the fort would not be worth while. Everywhere they -appeared to be retreating. Loud yells of triumph sounded from sturdy -little Apple River Fort as its defenders saw their enemy moving away. - -The white men did not escape loss, however. Even from the fort the -Indians could be seen pillaging the nearby houses and barns. Cattle and -horses that could not be moved inside the stockade were being driven -away, and the Indians were loading the horses with bags of provisions -taken from the storehouses of the settlers. - -“That can’t be helped, I’m afraid,” remarked Captain Stone when he heard -what was going on. “We still have our lives and we ought to count -ourselves lucky. Certainly they are worth more than a few cattle and -some provisions.” - -Everyone else seemed to share this view, though at first a few of the -more daring ones had been eager to sally out and continue the contest. -They were soon persuaded that such an undertaking would be foolhardy, -however, and were content to remain where they were. - -Joseph still had his dispatches for Colonel Strode and he was at a loss -as to what he should do about them. Finally he decided to ask Captain -Stone. - -“Don’t even think of going now!” exclaimed that officer, when Joseph -asked his opinion about pushing on that night. “Why, it’s almost dark -now and you don’t know how many of those Indians are still lurking -about. I consider that you’ve done enough for today. By all means wait -until morning before you even consider leaving here.” - -This advice Joseph reported to his three companions, who all agreed with -Captain Stone. Even Robert thought it might be advisable to wait. It was -so decided and they immediately made preparations to spend the night at -Apple River Fort. - - - - - CHAPTER XXIII - ACROSS COUNTRY - - -The Indians had evidently given up all idea of capturing the fort, for -no sign of them appeared during the night, and in the morning it was -even considered safe to venture outside the stockade. This was done with -great caution, however, for it was never safe to count on anything that -a hostile Indian might do. - -“I wish I’d seen Black Hawk,” exclaimed Robert, while he and his three -companions were eating breakfast. “You’re sure he was there, Deerfoot?” - -“Me sure,” said the Pottowattomie confidently. - -“He ought to know him when he sees him,” said Joseph. “You’ve seen him -lots of times, haven’t you, Deerfoot?” he asked. - -“Yes, plenty time,” Deerfoot assented. - -“Just suppose I could have shot him,” exclaimed Robert excitedly. “Why, -the whole war would probably have stopped at once, and think what a hero -I’d be.” - -“Wouldn’t you just as soon capture him, Red?” laughed John Mason. “As -long as you intend to be a hero, wouldn’t you be willing to be one -without any loss of life?” - -“Yes,” agreed Robert. “I guess I’d just as soon capture him.” - -“Let’s hope he doesn’t capture us is all I can say,” exclaimed Joseph, -earnestly. “He might not be as good to us as Bob would be to him.” - -“I didn’t say I’d be good to him,” protested Robert. - -“I’m afraid you’re a bloodthirsty young man,” remarked Mason laughingly. -“Don’t you think we’d better get started on our way to Galena pretty -soon?” he added, addressing his remarks to Joseph. - -“I do,” agreed Joseph. “You’re not going with us, though, with your arm -wounded the way it is.” - -“Certainly I’m going. Why, that little scratch isn’t bad enough to need -bandaging hardly.” - -“All right then,” said Joseph. “Let’s be off.” - -They hastened to saddle their horses and were in the midst of saying -their good-byes to the brave defenders of the little fort when a great -commotion arrested their attention. Shouts from the guards and the -excitement of the inmates running to and fro warned them that something -of great interest was taking place. - -“What’s it all about, do you suppose?” exclaimed Joseph curiously. - -“I don’t know,” replied Robert quickly, “but I intend to find out at -once.” - -He hastened to join the crowd which was rapidly gathering at one end of -the fort. The gates had been opened and the people were peering eagerly -out. Robert took one look and then turned and called to his companions. -“Come here, quick!” he cried. “There is something worth seeing out -here.” - -No time was lost in obeying and a few moments later Joseph, Deerfoot and -John Mason had joined the people who were gazing eagerly out from their -position inside the fort. - -“Look at them!” exclaimed Joseph. “Who do you suppose they are?” - -“From Galena, I guess,” replied Mason. A hundred horsemen rode toward -the fort. A great cloud of dust rose about them and a loud cheer from -the throats of the fort’s defenders went out to greet the newcomers. It -was easy to see that the riders were white men, and consequently were -friends. With this reinforcement there was but slight danger that Black -Hawk would dare return to the attack. - -Captain Stone hastened out to meet the fresh arrivals and soon everyone -else was also gathered around the horsemen, who had now drawn rein and -halted just outside the fort. - -“Who is that officer Captain Stone is talking to?” Joseph inquired of -John Mason. - -“That is Colonel Strode.” - -“The man I want to see,” exclaimed Joseph. “Do you suppose I can give -him these dispatches now? That would save us a trip to Galena.” - -“I don’t see why you can’t,” replied Mason. “When he finishes talking to -Captain Stone go up and hand them to him.” - -Joseph followed this advice and when a chance presented itself a few -moments later, he pushed The Swallow through the crowd and approached -Colonel Strode. He saluted and started to speak. - -“Colonel Strode,” he began, “I have some dispatches for you from Colonel -Zachary Taylor at Dixon’s Ferry. I thought perhaps I might give them to -you now instead of going to Galena.” - -“Is your name Hall?” asked Colonel Strode abruptly. - -“Why, yes,” replied Joseph, surprised that the Colonel should know who -he was. - -“I thought so. I recognized you by your horse.” - -“This pony seems to be very famous,” laughed Joseph, patting The Swallow -affectionately on the neck. - -“I should say he was. You’ll be famous, too, if you don’t stop killing -Indians.” - -Joseph blushed furiously and was much embarrassed by this compliment, -paid him in the presence of so many people. He could not say a word, but -merely held the dispatches out to the Colonel. - -“From Colonel Taylor, you say?” - -“Yes, sir,” answered Joseph. - -“All right, young man, and thank you very much. How is Colonel Taylor? -He is a warm friend of mine and a splendid man.” - -“He is very well,” said Joseph. Little did he imagine that the man they -were discussing was later to become the president of the United States. - -“I’m glad to hear it,” said Colonel Strode warmly. “I’m also glad to -meet you and to see what the new owner of The Swallow looks like.” He -smiled pleasantly at the young volunteer and then turned away to give an -order to one of his aides. Joseph realized that he was dismissed and -quickly withdrew. - -“We may as well start back,” he said when he had rejoined his comrades. - -“Your business all finished here?” asked Robert. - -“All finished.” - -“Let’s go then,” exclaimed Robert. “I don’t believe we can do anything -more for the people here.” - -A few moments later the four scouts were on their way back to Dixon’s -Ferry, their errand accomplished. Their safe return was by no means -assured, however, for they well knew that Black Hawk and his war party -were probably not far distant. His failure to take Apple River Fort -would make the chief all the more relentless against his next foe. - -It was easy to follow the trail of the marauding Indians, for they had -taken no pains to cover up their tracks. The four volunteers did not -long keep on this trail, however. Deerfoot led the way and he soon -turned to the others. - -“We better go ’round,” he remarked. - -“Go ‘’round’,” exclaimed John Mason. “What do you mean?” - -“He means,” explained Joseph, “that we’d better make a detour and not -keep on this trail any longer.” - -“Ugh,” grunted Deerfoot, nodding his head in token that Joseph’s -explanation was the correct one. - -“That’s perfectly right,” agreed Mason. “I think that is the only thing -to do. Certainly if we keep on this way we’re apt to catch up with the -Indians at almost any time and that’s the one thing we don’t want to -happen.” - -Deerfoot still leading the way, they turned due west from the course -they had been following. They continued in this direction for about -three miles and then they once more turned and rode parallel with their -original course. Black Hawk was evidently following the same trail over -which the four scouts had come on their way from Dixon’s Ferry the day -previous. - -“Where do you suppose he is going?” asked Robert, speaking in reference -to Black Hawk. He was always uppermost in men’s minds in those days. - -“He is headed straight for Kellogg’s Grove,” replied John Mason. - -“Do you suppose he will attack there?” - -“I’m sure I don’t know,” said Mason. “If he does I hope he has no better -luck than he had yesterday.” - -“There are no soldiers to speak of at Kellogg’s Grove,” Joseph reminded -the others. “He may be able to surprise the fort now and capture it.” - -“There were no soldiers there yesterday,” agreed Mason. “At the same -time it seems to me I heard something at Dixon’s Ferry the other day -about some men being sent there.” - -“To be stationed there, you mean?” asked Robert. - -“No, I don’t think that was it. I can’t remember just what it was, but -somehow I have it in my mind that that spy battalion under Major Dement -was to be sent over to this part of the country somewhere. They may not -be at Kellogg’s Grove itself, but they ought to be around here, some -place.” - -“Maybe they’ll meet Black Hawk’s war party coming the other way,” -exclaimed Robert excitedly. “I wish we could be with them.” - -“It seems to me you are always looking for trouble,” said John Mason, -smiling broadly at the eagerness of the red-headed young frontiersman. - -“Well, it has to come some time,” explained Robert. “These Indians -simply have to be beaten before the war can end. The sooner it is over -with the better it will be. That’s the way I look at it.” - -“That’s very true,” agreed Mason. “You don’t have to be in it though, do -you?” - -“Of course I do,” Robert insisted. “I want to feel that I had a part in -winning the war. You must also remember that Joe and I have an account -to settle with Mr. Black Hawk.” - -Mason had no answer to this remark and as no one else offered to say -anything the ride was continued in silence for some time. Over the -rolling prairies they went, the scenery sometimes varied by a grove of -trees or a patch of woods. Mile after mile they covered and no trace of -the enemy appeared. Deerfoot evidently knew the country thoroughly, for -when they had gone a certain distance he turned abruptly east. - -“Kellogg Grove there,” he exclaimed pointing ahead of him as he spoke. - -It had been decided that a halt should be made there on the way back -just as had been done on the outcoming journey. - -“Good!” cried Joseph heartily, in response to Deerfoot’s remark. “I feel -hungry and know I shall appreciate a little food.” - -“We all will, I guess,” agreed Mason. “How far are we from Kellogg’s -Grove now, Deerfoot?” - -“Two mile.” - -“That won’t take long,” exclaimed Robert. “By the way,” he added -suddenly, and speaking to Mason, “what has become of Walt?” - -“Why, I don’t know,” replied Mason. “I left him over at Fort Armstrong -some time ago. I forget where he was going. It seems to me he was to -join Major Dement’s battalion, though.” - -“That’s the one sent over here,” Joseph remarked. - -“Why, to be sure it is,” exclaimed Mason. “Perhaps if we run into them -we may find Walt. I’d like to see him again.” - -“So should I,” agreed Robert. “We used to get pretty mad at him once in -a while but just the same I like him. Don’t you, Joe?” - -“Surely I do,” said Joseph heartily. “I hope we’ll meet him soon again.” - -“There’s Kellogg’s Grove now,” cried Mason suddenly. - -“Does it look as if anyone was there?” asked Joseph. - -“I can’t see,” replied Mason. “Is anyone there, Deerfoot?” - -“Yes, plenty people,” said Deerfoot. “Many white soldier.” - -“It must be Major Dement’s command,” cried Mason. “At any rate we’ll -know soon.” - -The four volunteers unconsciously quickened their pace, and in a short -time arrived at their destination to find that John Mason’s guess was -correct. Major Dement was there with a spy battalion of about one -hundred and fifty men. - - - - - CHAPTER XXIV - KELLOGG’S GROVE - - -As they rode up to the fort the first person to greet them was Walt. He -had seen them coming a long way off and hastened out to meet his four -friends. He was delighted to see them again and showed his pleasure -plainly. - -“You’re just in time to see some fun, I think,” he remarked after a few -moments had elapsed and the travelers had dismounted from their ponies. - -“What do you mean?” exclaimed Robert eagerly. He at once scented action -and was enthusiastic at the prospect. - -“Two men came in just a few minutes ago and reported that they had seen -some Indians about four or five miles from here.” - -“Are we going after them?” demanded Robert. - -“I can’t say as to that,” replied Walt. “You’ll have to ask Major -Dement.” - -“You said you were hungry a little while ago, Bob,” Joseph reminded his -brother. - -“I know, but I’ve forgotten about that. When there is a chance of a -fight I never feel like eating.” - -“We’d better get something just the same,” said John Mason. “No man can -fight on an empty stomach. Ask any general and he’ll tell you that.” - -“You can get food right inside here,” said Walt. “Follow me and I’ll fix -you up.” - -No second invitation was needed and the four scouts had soon disposed of -a hearty meal. Walt had left them to eat by themselves but just as they -were finishing he came hurrying up with an air of satisfaction to the -place where they were seated. - -“If you are looking for a fight you can find one now,” he exclaimed to -Robert. - -“I’m ready,” cried Robert, immediately rising to his feet. “Where is -it?” - -“Major Dement is calling for twenty-five volunteers to go out and -reconnoiter. Do you want to go?” - -“Of course I do,” said Robert instantly. “Where is Major Dement?” - -“Over there,” replied Walt, pointing to a man who was standing in the -midst of a group of soldiers. - -“I’m with you, Bob,” exclaimed Joseph, and he, too, started forward. - -“Me go,” said Deerfoot quickly and he followed Joseph. - -“It looks as though I’d have to go or be left alone,” laughed Mason. -“How about you, Walt?” - -“I’ve already volunteered and been accepted.” - -Before many minutes had elapsed John Mason, Deerfoot, and the two young -brothers had also been accepted as members of the party. The little band -soon sallied forth from the blockhouse and started across the prairie. -Joseph noticed that among the twenty-five men who had volunteered there -was a large proportion of officers. He called Walt’s attention to this -fact. - -“I noticed it, too,” said Walt. “I don’t think it is right, either.” - -“Nor I,” exclaimed Joseph. “Major Dement isn’t with us but there are -mighty few officers left in the fort. I’m afraid that if anything -serious happens, there may be trouble. The men aren’t well drilled, and, -without enough officers, I’m afraid they may become disorganized if they -are left back there practically to themselves.” - -“Let’s hope not,” said Walt earnestly. “The militia has acquired a -pretty bad reputation so far, but these men look like better fighters -than the ones Major Stillman had at Sycamore Creek.” - -“They couldn’t be worse any way,” exclaimed Joseph disgustedly. - -Walt and Joseph were riding in the rear rank of the party. They were -scarcely out of sight of their camp now, but a sudden yell warned them -that already the enemy had been discovered. Far out on the prairies -appeared a small grove and between this and the fort were three Indians -riding backward and forward. - -The reconnoitering party started after them at full speed and were soon -strung out in a long line across the prairie. The three Indians -immediately upon sighting the white men, turned and rode for the grove -as fast as their horses could carry them. Joseph had started from the -rear but thanks to the speed of The Swallow was soon up with the -leaders. Robert had been in the van from the start and Deerfoot and -Mason were with him. - -In the meantime Major Dement had been observing his party of scouts from -a vantage point he occupied near the fort. He saw all that was happening -and he immediately suspected a trick. The three Indians were racing -straight for the grove and he feared that concealed there were -reinforcements, who were merely waiting for the little band to ride into -the trap set for them. The Major at once jumped upon his horse and with -a small portion of his men set out to overtake the scouts and warn them -of their danger. - -He was well mounted and before a great distance had been covered was -able to come up with the hindermost members of the band. Several men, -however, were so far in advance in their mad pursuit of the Indians that -he was unable to reach them in time. Among this number were Robert, -Joseph, Deerfoot and Walt. The calls and shouts of their comrades did -not reach their ears and on they raced. The fleeing Indians were making -for the grove some three miles distant, hotly pursued by the Major’s -men. - -When they were a little less than a half-mile from the grove Major -Dement dismounted his men and formed them in a line. Seven or eight were -still in advance, however, intent only upon overtaking the Indians. -Joseph now led the pursuit, with Walt close behind him. Then came four -men who were of Major Dement’s original command and bringing up the rear -rode Robert and Deerfoot. The last two mentioned were in that position -solely on account of the speed of their horses. Certainly Robert would -have led the party if he had had his wish. - -Nearer and nearer to the grove they came. On they kept without the least -suspicion of the danger to which they were exposing themselves. Major -Dement had drawn up the men who had dismounted on a little ridge, and -with intense anxiety they watched their comrades approach the grove. - -Suddenly it happened as the Major had feared. From out the shelter of -the grove poured the Indians. They were all mounted, stripped to their -waists and painted for battle. A galling fire poured from their guns and -two of the white men fell to the ground lifeless. One of these two was -Walt. The bullet had entered his temple and one glance was sufficient to -assure Joseph that his companion was dead. - -He turned and fled, and with him fled the five remaining members of the -daring little company. A volley from the men on the ridge killed two or -three of the Indians, but the rest came on at undiminished speed. As -they reached the bodies of the two dead soldiers a large number -surrounded them, clubbing and stabbing the lifeless remains. By the time -that Joseph and his five companions reached the ridge where their -comrades were drawn up in line the red men were close upon them and upon -both flanks. - -The Indians had sallied forth with terrific yells which had been heard -by the soldiers remaining at the fort. This portion of the battalion had -been ordered to hold themselves in readiness for any emergency, but at -the sound of the guns and the war whoops they mounted their horses and -started to the rescue of their companions. Coming nearer, however, they -met Major Dement and his men fleeing in hot haste, and upon seeing the -number of the Indians they, too, turned and retreated toward the fort. - -A mad race ensued in which the Whites were victors by a narrow margin. -They were first to reach the blockhouse, however, and springing from -their horses they quickly occupied the defenses. It was necessary to -leave their mounts outside and the horses were huddled together around a -work bench on the least exposed side of the fort. The best marksmen -immediately took their places at the portholes. - -An ominous stillness filled the air. In large force the Indians swarmed -around the blockhouse. They kept under cover as far as possible, -however, and seemed to be planning the best method of attack. All at -once the sharp crack of a rifle broke the silence and proved that -someone of the white men had located the enemy. Straightway the firing -became general. - -“Let ’em have it, Joe!” exclaimed Robert hotly. “We’ve got Walt to pay -them back for now, too.” - -“I’ll let ’em have it all right,” replied Joseph grimly. He carefully -sighted his rifle and fired. An Indian some two hundred yards away who -had been so careless as to expose his head for an instant, suddenly let -his gun drop limply from his hands and sank to the ground. - -“I got one,” said Joseph casually. - -“Good for you!” cried Robert exultantly. “That’s what we’re here for.” - -“Me get one, too,” remarked Deerfoot. He was busily engaged in loading -his gun for another shot at his ancient enemies. - -“I hope we all get one,” exclaimed Robert. “At least I hope we all get -at least one.” He bent to his task again and no further conversation was -held for some time. - -The little garrison kept up a hot fire. No Indians dared venture too -close to the fort and after about an hour had elapsed they turned their -attention to the horses. Robert, whose porthole commanded a view of the -spot where the animals were huddled, was the first to observe this move. - -“They’re shooting at the horses,” he exclaimed suddenly. - -“What!” cried Joseph in alarm. - -“They’re shooting at the horses,” repeated Robert. “I suppose they are -beginning to find out that they can’t hurt us here in the fort.” - -“But The Swallow!” protested Joseph. “Suppose they kill him. Can you see -him from there?” - -“Yes,” said Robert, peering out cautiously. “He’s almost in the center -of the bunch and my horse is right next to him. I can see John Mason’s -horse, too, but I don’t see Deerfoot’s anywhere.” - -“Let me look,” begged Joseph. The thought of harm coming to The Swallow -cast a sudden gloom over the young volunteer. He almost forgot his own -danger in the thought that he might lose his wonderful pony. He was -prouder of The Swallow than of anything else in his possession and the -thought of being deprived of his prize was almost more than he could -bear. - -“He is right in the middle there,” he observed after a hasty glance. As -he looked, however, a bullet struck a tall sorrel horse stationed on the -edge of the group and with a scream of pain the animal reared and -plunged. The rest of the animals tugged at their bonds and wild with -fear made every effort to break loose. Joseph was beside himself with -anxiety. - -“They won’t hit him,” observed Robert reassuringly. “There are a hundred -horses in that bunch and The Swallow is about the best protected one of -all. He was the first to arrive so that all the others are grouped -around him and help to keep him covered.” - -“If they shoot him I’ll kill every Indian Black Hawk has!” exclaimed -Joseph fiercely. “That would be the last straw.” - -“Kill ’em all anyway,” urged Robert. “That’s our business just now and -at present we’re not attending to it.” - -As Joseph turned away to resume his post another bullet struck in the -midst of the group of horses. The animal collapsed almost instantly and -once more all the others were thrown into confusion. It was a horrible -sight to see the poor dumb brutes, almost crazy with fright, and yet -unable to do one thing to help themselves. They kicked and reared and -plunged and many of them were hurt. The Indians were quick to observe -the damage they were inflicting and soon much of their fire was -concentrated on the horses. Already ten animals had been shot. - -“Quite a large number of Indians have been killed I think,” remarked -John Mason to Joseph when he resumed his place at his porthole. - -“Think they’ll last much longer?” - -“No, I don’t. The very fact that they have turned their attention to the -horses shows that they haven’t much hope of taking the blockhouse.” - -“I wish they’d leave soon,” exclaimed Joseph. “I’m afraid they’re going -to shoot The Swallow unless they stop firing at the horses pretty -quick.” - -“The only way you can stop them is to make it so hot for them they’ll -have to leave,” observed Mason. - -“I might go out and bring him inside,” said Joseph eagerly. “Do you -think I could get him out of that bunch of horses?” - -“No, I don’t,” replied Mason shortly. “As long as I have an ounce of -strength left in my body, I’ll use it to prevent you from doing anything -so foolish, too.” - -“Look there,” cried Robert suddenly. He hurried up to the spot where -Joseph and John Mason were, and pointed eagerly out of one of the -portholes. - - - - - CHAPTER XXV - ON THE TRAIL - - -“There they go!” exclaimed Robert triumphantly. “They’ve had enough.” - -“So have I,” cried Joseph, with a great sigh of relief. “I thought that -at any moment The Swallow was going to be shot.” - -“He has run that chance ever since you’ve had him,” remarked Mason. -“Every time you’ve been in a fight your horse has been in danger of -being killed.” - -“I know it,” said Joseph. “At the same time they haven’t been turning -all their attention to him.” - -“They’re going now, anyway,” remarked Robert. “We’ve made it too hot for -them, I guess. We seem to be pretty good men to defend blockhouses, -don’t we? What do you say to our hiring ourselves out for that purpose -all along the frontier?” - -“You’d better clear them out of this neighborhood before you start in -anywhere else, Red,” cautioned Mason. - -“They are clearing out of here now,” replied Robert. “Just look out of -that porthole and you can see them going.” - -What Robert said was true. Black Hawk had drawn off his forces and could -now be seen leading his warriors in retreat across the prairie. His -attempt to take the blockhouse had resulted in absolute failure, but -five white men were dead as a result of his visit. One of the five was -Walt and his loss was keenly felt by his companions. - -“Poor old Walt,” exclaimed Joseph sorrowfully. “I’m sorry he had to go.” - -“He died a soldier’s death, though,” said Robert. “I’d like to get a -shot at the Indian that killed him; also at those demons who stabbed and -mutilated the bodies out there on the prairie.” - -“Look here, boys,” observed John Mason quietly. “There is no use in -talking about unpleasant subjects. No one feels the loss of Walt more -than I. He was a good friend of mine and I had known him for years. He -died bravely but his death was only a part of the game after all. I wish -he was back, but wishing won’t bring him. Talking and thinking won’t do -any good either and I say we try to forget about it. It seems to me that -is the most sensible thing for us to do.” - -“I guess you’re right,” agreed Joseph. “It makes one feel badly, -though.” - -“Of course it does,” said Mason. “There is work for us to do just now, -though, and because we try to forget Walt’s loss doesn’t mean that we -don’t feel badly.” - -So Walt died and passed out of the lives of his comrades. He had his -faults like all of us, but he had had many good points as well. We are -all doomed to be forgotten, but if we can make the world and the people -in it a little bit better or happier for our having lived here, we can -count our lives successful. All who knew Walt agreed that his had been a -successful life. - -That evening General Posey arrived at Kellogg’s Grove with his brigade. -Scouts reported that Black Hawk’s party were encamped only a short -distance away, but for some reason it was not deemed advisable to attack -him. - -“It seems silly to me,” exclaimed Robert hotly. “Here we have a lot of -reinforcements and a fine chance to strike a heavy blow. The Indians are -probably all tired out after their fight and we might even be able to -capture Black Hawk himself. It seems to me an opportunity to break the -back of the war right now.” - -“You may be right,” admitted Joseph. “At the same time you must remember -that these men probably know more about fighting than we do, and we are -in no position to criticize.” - -“Maybe so,” growled Robert. “I must say it doesn’t seem like good sense -to me, though.” - -No attack was made, however, and a few days later the two brothers, -together with John Mason and the faithful Deerfoot were once more at -Dixon’s Ferry. They were now attached to the spy battalion of General -James D. Henry’s brigade. General Henry had been lieutenant-colonel of -Fry’s rangers when the four friends had first attached themselves to -that body after Major Stillman’s defeat. Colonel Fry still held command -of the spy battalion, however. - -Since the defeat at Sycamore Creek a large army had been gathered by the -Whites who were determined to end the war as soon as possible. Including -the regulars there were now about four thousand effective troops in the -field. Most of these had assembled at Fort Wilburn, on the Illinois -River, south of Dixon’s Ferry. One brigade under General Alexander was -dispatched post haste to Plum River, a spot not far from Kellogg’s -Grove, as soon as news of the fight at the latter place was received. It -was thought that Black Hawk might attempt to cross the Mississippi at -this point and it was Alexander’s mission to prevent this. - -Black Hawk did not try to cross the great river just then, however. -Instead he turned north once more and went into camp near Lake -Koshkonong near the head waters of the Rock River. Learning of this, -General Atkinson at once left Dixon’s Ferry and advanced up the east -bank of the Rock River in pursuit of the Indians. The start was made on -June twenty-seventh, the main army now consisting of four hundred -regulars and twenty-one hundred volunteer troops. - -“We’re off,” cried Robert enthusiastically, as the army filed out of the -little settlement at Dixon’s Ferry and started up the bank of the river. -“We’ll finish up the war this time. Just look at all the men we have.” - -“It does look like a real army, doesn’t it?” exclaimed Joseph. - -Like some great serpent the army filed out of Dixon’s Ferry. The two -brothers being attached to the scout battalion were near the front, and -in back of them the troops stretched out in a long line as far as the -eye could see. There was little of the bravado and recklessness that had -inspired Major Stillman’s men when they had started from this same spot -some six weeks before. Bitter and costly experience had taught the men -that over-confidence is a poor quality for any soldier to possess. A -quiet determination showed on every countenance now. This army had made -up its mind to win and Black Hawk would soon realize that every member -meant business. - -Behind the troops came the baggage and supply wagons. A mass of dust -from the hoofs of hundreds of horses rose in a cloud about the army and -only an occasional glimpse of the baggage train could be had. Every once -in a while the cloud lifted momentarily, however, and the drivers could -be seen urging their horses on to keep pace with the others. - -“Where’s Deerfoot?” exclaimed Robert suddenly. “I haven’t seen him once -since yesterday.” - -“You don’t mean to say you don’t know where he is?” said Joseph in -surprise. - -“No. I’ve been so busy the last twenty-four hours that I never missed -him. I just this minute noticed that he was gone.” - -“Deerfoot is the proudest Indian in North America today, I guess,” -laughed John Mason, who rode alongside his young friends. - -“Why?” demanded Robert. “Tell me what all the mystery is about.” - -“There’s no mystery at all,” replied Joseph. “This is what happened. -Yesterday a Pottowattomie came into camp and reported that seventy-five -warriors of his tribe were encamped at Sycamore Creek who wanted to join -forces with us. They seemed to think that this was a fine chance to get -revenge on their old enemies, the Sacs, and they were very anxious to -get in the fight. Some men of our battalion were sent on ahead to tell -them it was all right and Deerfoot of course went with them. You ought -to have seen him. Why, he was almost enthusiastic.” - -“You can’t tell me he showed it, though,” laughed Robert. “When are we -going to meet these Pottowattomies?” - -“Tonight, I think.” - -“That’s fine,” exclaimed Robert heartily. “I can just see Deerfoot -riding at the head of seventy-five of his own people. He’ll be so puffed -up that he probably won’t deign to speak to us.” - -“Not as bad as that I think,” said Joseph laughingly. “They’ll be a -great addition to our forces, though. They know the country better than -any of our men and they are good fighters, too.” - -“They are if they are anything like Deerfoot,” agreed Mason. “He is -about the best I ever saw.” - -All day long the army continued its march. A halt for dinner was made at -noon and shortly afterward the advance was continued. No sign of the -enemy was discovered and at night they went into camp on the old battle -ground at Sycamore Creek. Shortly before, they had passed the ravine -where Joseph had hidden from the Indians during the disastrous route -after that fight. He also recognized the spot where he had had the -encounter with the Indian and had captured The Swallow. A thrill ran up -and down his spine at the remembrance of these events and he shuddered -to think how easily the tide might have turned the other way and his -life been forfeited as had Walt’s only a few days before. - -Camp was pitched in a heavy growth of timber and breastworks thrown up. -Sentinels were posted and every precaution taken against a surprise -attack. - -Soon after the army’s arrival Deerfoot came in with his seventy-five -tribesmen. They were given a hearty welcome by the troops and were -assigned to Colonel Fry’s brigade. Thus the scout battalion, of which -John Mason and Joseph and Robert were members, now contained not only -one fearless Indian ally, but seventy-five more of the same kind. -Deerfoot, in spite of the fact that many of his own people were now with -the army, still chose to camp with his two young white friends. - -“Wouldn’t you rather be with the rest of your people?” Joseph inquired -of him. He thought that perhaps Deerfoot had joined him and his brother -for fear they might feel hurt. - -“Me stay with you,” replied Deerfoot quietly. No urging could induce him -to leave, and Joseph and Robert soon gave up trying. - -“I believe he’d rather be with you boys than his own people anyway,” -John Mason remarked to Joseph a short time later. - -“I guess he would,” agreed Joseph. “He is certainly a good friend of -ours. He is a fine character, too, and I can tell you that Bob and I -appreciate his affection.” - -The next day the march was continued. On the thirtieth they crossed the -Illinois-Wisconsin border where the Turtle village of the Winnebagos -stood. The place was deserted, however, for the inhabitants had fled at -the approach of the army. - -Sac signs were fresh now, for Black Hawk had fled from Kellogg’s Grove -directly for his stronghold, reaching the Rock River just above the -mouth of the Kishwaukee only three or four days in advance of the White -army. The trail was warm and the troops were following it with the -determination and eagerness of bloodhounds. - -Every night a camp was selected, in the timber if possible, and the men -slept on their arms. There was constant fear of a night attack, for so -close had General Atkinson pressed the fleeing Sacs that often they came -in contact with the rear guard of the savages. Several times sentinels -had been fired on. - -On the second of July the army arrived at the outlet of Lake Koshkonong. -Indian camps were found, all presenting the appearance of having been -hastily deserted. Tepees stood empty and household goods had been -abandoned by the Indians in their eagerness to leave. - -“Look there,” exclaimed Robert as he and some of the scouts rode into -the largest of these camps. - -Hanging from a pole of one of the tepees were five newly taken scalps. -White scalps they were which had been stretched on frames to dry. - -“All I can say is,” remarked one grizzled old ranger, “that them Indians -must have been in a powerful big hurry or they never would have left -them things behind.” - -“We’ll catch up with them soon,” cried Robert eagerly. “It can’t be too -soon to suit me either.” - - - - - CHAPTER XXVI - THROUGH THE SWAMPS - - -Robert had maintained that they would soon overtake Black Hawk, but such -did not prove to be the case. Winnebagos had come into camp with -information that they knew where Black Hawk was located and their offers -to guide the troops to the spot had been accepted. As a consequence many -days were wasted in running wild goose chases through the treacherous -swamps and sink holes of that region. The Winnebagos had been constantly -endeavoring to lead the army into a trap and only their good fortune had -saved them from destruction more than once. - -“I’m getting discouraged,” exclaimed Robert in despair. A week had been -spent in following false clues, none of which had proved of any value. - -“Don’t get discouraged, Red,” urged John Mason. “Better times are -coming.” - -“Maybe they are,” replied Robert disconsolately. “Not many seem to think -so, though. Governor Reynolds left us this morning.” - -“He did?” - -“Yes, he did, and a lot of other officials went with him. They think -that the Indians have taken to the swamps and that we’ll never get them -out.” - -“I don’t think it’s as bad as that.” - -“But so many of our men are sick,” protested Robert. “This business of -floundering around in the marshes isn’t very healthy, you know. We are -almost out of provisions, too.” - -“That’s the worst thing,” admitted Mason reluctantly. “Our food supply -is low, I guess.” - -“It certainly is, from all I hear. Something will have to be done soon.” - -As he finished speaking Joseph approached. He hurried along as if he had -some important news to communicate. - -“What is it, Joe?” inquired Robert as his brother drew near. - -“We’re going to Fort Winnebago,” Joseph announced. - -“To Fort Winnebago?” exclaimed John Mason. “Why are we going there?” - -“To get supplies.” - -“Who is going?” demanded Robert, his spirits immediately reviving at the -prospect of an expedition. - -“Our brigade and General Alexander’s, and Dodge’s squadron.” - -“When do we start?” - -“In an hour.” - -“Good,” exclaimed Robert. “How about Deerfoot? Is he going with us?” - -“Yes, indeed. I just arranged it for him. He thought he might be left -behind and he couldn’t stand the thought of being separated from us.” - -“How far is it to Fort Winnebago from here?” Joseph inquired of John -Mason. - -“Nearly eighty miles, I should say.” - -“What do we care?” cried Robert. “We’re going to leave this hole and -that is enough to make me cheerful again.” - -“You’ll strike worse holes than this on the way to Fort Winnebago,” -cautioned Mason. “We may all wish we were back here again before many -days have passed.” - -“It’s a change anyway,” Robert persisted. “That is the principal thing -just at present.” - -An hour later the start for Fort Winnebago was made. The journey was a -hard one and it was with a great feeling of relief that the troops -finally reached their destination. At the fort were many Winnebago -Indians who were eager to give advice to the white chiefs. - -“No trust them,” said Deerfoot earnestly in speaking of these offers. -“They fool white men too much already.” - -“I wouldn’t trust them either,” exclaimed Robert hotly. “It seems to me -we ought to know better by this time.” - -The four scouts were seated together at one end of the enclosure -discussing the future plans of the army. They were tired from their long -trip and as a consequence were low in spirits. The rest of the men -seemed to share their feelings and many were anxious to give up the -struggle and go home. - -“I don’t want to go home,” said Robert warmly. “What I want to do is to -find Black Hawk, and find him soon too. I can’t help but think that -there is some way to do it.” - -“If we only had a trustworthy guide,” said John Mason. “Some man who -knows what he is talking about and whose word can be relied upon.” - -“But where can we find such a man?” demanded Joseph. - -“I wish I knew,” exclaimed Mason. - -“We can get supplies here,” remarked Joseph. “That is some consolation -anyway.” - -“Yes, but a pretty poor one,” growled Robert. “What we want is Black -Hawk, not supplies.” - -“We must have supplies first though, Red,” reminded Mason. “Don’t you -know what I told you the other day that no man can fight on an empty -stomach?” - -“Nor without sleep either,” added Joseph. “I’m going to bed.” - -The fifteenth of July came and the troops left Fort Winnebago. General -Alexander’s men insisted upon returning by the shortest possible route -to General Atkinson and the main army. Consequently they set out with -twelve days’ provisions. Henry and Dodge, however, had received a clue -as to Black Hawk’s whereabouts and decided to follow it. - -At Fort Winnebago there was a famous halfbreed trader and scout named -Pierre Paquette. He had long been a trusted employee of the American Fur -Company and to all appearances answered John Mason’s requirements of a -man whose word could be relied upon and who knew what he was talking -about. Paquette had informed General Henry of the true location of Black -Hawk’s camp and with a dozen Winnebago assistants was engaged to lead -the army there. - -On July eighteenth they reached the village where Black Hawk and his -band had been quartered, but the enemy had fled. The Winnebago guides -insisted, however, that the Sacs had just gone to Cranberry Lake, a -half-day’s march up the Rock River. It was then noon and the commanders -decided to wait until the following morning before proceeding. Camp was -made and the men settled down to wait until the next day came. - -Meanwhile two men, Adjutants Merriam and Woodbridge, were dispatched to -the south to carry the news to General Atkinson. Little Thunder, a -Winnebago chief, went with them to act as guide. Mounting their horses -they rode off, leaving behind them seven hundred and fifty very much -disheartened and discouraged troops. - -“There’s nothing to do hut wait till morning, I suppose,” exclaimed -Robert peevishly. “It seems as if we spent half our time in waiting.” - -“You must be patient, Red,” advised John Mason. “Surely you wouldn’t -have us start for Cranberry Lake now. Why, we’d just about arrive there -as it was growing dark; the Indians would discover us and get away -again. They could easily escape us in the darkness.” - -“That’s right, Bob,” agreed Joseph. “I think we are doing just the right -thing.” - -“Probably we are,” admitted Robert. “I guess I’m in too much of a hurry. -Besides I don’t like this business of having nothing to do.” - -“Why don’t you look after your horse?” suggested Joseph. “I’m going to -give The Swallow a good rub down this afternoon.” - -“That’s a good scheme,” exclaimed Mason. “Come on, Red. Come on, -Deerfoot. We’ll all go and do as Joe advises.” - -The four friends were soon busied with their horses, and being busy the -afternoon soon passed. Darkness approached by the time they had finished -and soon after supper they rolled themselves in their blankets and -prepared for sleep. - -To the four tired volunteers it seemed as if scarcely a half-hour had -elapsed when they were suddenly aroused from their slumbers. The camp -seemed to be in an uproar. Men ran hither and thither. Loud commands -were being shouted and all was bustle and noise. - -“What is it?” exclaimed Robert. “Are we being attacked?” - -“I don’t know,” replied his brother hastily. “I guess not though, for I -don’t hear any guns. Let’s see what it is all about.” - -Together with John Mason and Deerfoot they hastened to headquarters. - -“What’s all the excitement?” Robert inquired eagerly of the first man -they met. - -“We’ve found him at last,” the man answered gleefully. - -“Found who? What do you mean?” demanded Mason. - -“Is Black Hawk captured?” exclaimed Robert. - -“Here’s what has happened,” said the man quietly. “You know that Merriam -and Woodbridge started for General Atkinson’s camp with Little Thunder -as a guide. Well, when they had covered about twenty miles of the -distance they suddenly came upon a broad fresh trail leading west. -Little Thunder at once began to wave his arms and shout, but the two -adjutants couldn’t understand a word of what he said. Suddenly, however, -he turned his horse around and started at full speed back over the way -he had come. Woodbridge and Merriam were afraid to go any farther -without a guide, so they had to follow Little Thunder. They all got back -here just a little while ago, and it seems that they just happened to -stumble across Black Hawk’s trail.” - -“Are we going to follow it as fast as we can?” said Robert. - -“Exactly,” agreed the man. “We start very soon.” - -“Hooray!” cried Robert, turning a full handspring to show his approval -of this move. - -“We must get our horses and be ready to start at once,” reminded Mason. -“Let’s waste no time.” - -The news that the trail of Black Hawk had been discovered was received -with great joy in the camp. The men were all eager to start and with -rapidly rising spirits they awaited the order to move. More enthusiasm -was shown by the troops than they had displayed at any time up to the -present. If it was fighting and danger they wanted there would be no -cause for their enthusiasm to lag again either. At last the preparations -had been all made and General Henry drew his men up in order to address -a few words of advice to them. - -“We have at last struck the right track,” he said. “The trail is fresh -and we must follow it like hounds on the scent. We have reason to -believe that our enemies are sorely pressed for food. That fact will -help us, but we must take quick advantage of it. We must strike before -Black Hawk can secure supplies and consequently our watchword must be -‘speed.’ We must sacrifice everything to speed and to that end I charge -you men to discard every article that is not absolutely essential to -you. We must not be weighted down with unnecessary baggage. I have -confidence in you all and I know that every man can be counted on to the -utmost.” - -This speech of General Henry’s was greeted with wild cheering and every -man immediately did as he had been advised. Blankets, cooking utensils, -and all sorts and kinds of camp equipage were thrown aside. Ammunition -and a scanty supply of food was all that the men retained. - -The word to advance was given and the army moved forward. What had been -a band of discouraged and gloomy men was now a body of spirited and -eager soldiers. Every man realized that at last they were not following -a will-o’-the-wisp, but a certainty. They knew that Black Hawk was not -far away now and that if they tried hard enough they could probably -overtake him. They were all determined to do their utmost. - -“What an awful country!” exclaimed Robert, when they were a few miles -out from camp. “Is the whole region filled with swamps and sink holes -like this?” - -“Pretty much so, I’m afraid,” replied Mason. “It makes the traveling -pretty hard, doesn’t it?” - -“I should say so,” agreed Joseph. “The men don’t seem to mind it though. -Just look at them! They look like a lot of schoolboys out for a picnic.” - -“They’re on the trail of big game now,” said Mason. “Nothing else -matters. We cannot be so far away from it, either,” he added. “Just look -there.” - - - - - CHAPTER XXVII - WISCONSIN HEIGHTS - - -The object to which John Mason pointed was not very startling in itself. -It seemed entirely harmless and innocent as it lay on a tuft of grass -beside a large tree. It was an earthen pot like many that were used by -the Indians in their camps. - -“You see they are beginning to throw away their own belongings,” -exclaimed Mason. “They must know we are close behind them and are trying -to make time.” - -“There are some blankets too,” cried Robert. “They evidently don’t -intend to carry any more weight than necessary.” - -The trail was soon littered with baggage and paraphernalia of all kinds. -Everything pointed to the fact that the Indians were now in dire -straits. The troops pushed on eagerly, every man spurred forward by the -knowledge that their opponents were weakened and must soon be overtaken. -Nature seemed to impose almost every difficulty imaginable in the way of -the pursuers, but nothing discouraged the men any more. Frequently it -became necessary to dismount and wade in mud and water shoulder deep. A -violent thunder storm and cloudburst struck the little army, but -undismayed they fought their way along. - -“There’s an Indian!” exclaimed Joseph suddenly. - -“Where?” cried Robert excitedly. The two boys were in advance of the -others, for their knowledge of woodcraft learned from Deerfoot had -enabled them slightly to outdistance the rest of the army. - -“Just ahead there,” said Joseph quickly as he raised his gun to fire. - -“Wait, Joe,” cried Robert. “He’s holding up his hands.” - -The Indian was seated on a pony, and, as Robert had said, was holding up -his hands in token of surrender. Joseph quickly lowered his rifle. - -“A Winnebago,” announced Joseph, when he had obtained a closer glimpse -of the red man. - -“We’d better wait for the others,” advised Robert. “He probably can’t -speak English and we can’t find out what he wants.” - -Several soldiers soon joined the brothers, among them a man who -understood the Winnebago tongue. He shouted to the Indian and learned -that he was a deserter from Black Hawk and wished to join the Whites. -The interpreter questioned him closely and upon relating what had been -said to General Henry, the Winnebago was given permission to attach -himself to the army. - -“Who was he? What did he say?” Robert demanded of Deerfoot, who was now -riding with the two boys and John Mason. - -“He Winnebago,” replied Deerfoot. “He say Black Hawk only two miles -away, and much weary.” - -“Hooray!” cried Robert excitedly. “We’ll catch him soon.” - -The news had spread throughout the army, spurring the men on to even -greater efforts than before. - -“We won’t catch them tonight, I’m afraid,” remarked Mason. “It will be -dark before long.” - -“It always gets dark just at the wrong time,” Robert complained. - -“How are you going to prevent it, Red?” laughed Mason. - -“I’m not going to prevent it,” replied Robert. “It is certainly tough -luck the way it always happens like this, though.” - -“We’ll camp soon, I think,” said Mason. “We must be almost at the lakes -by this time, and it is nearly sunset.” - -“What lakes?” inquired Joseph. - -“The Four Lakes,” explained Mason. “You’ll see them yourself in a -minute.” - -“I hope they’re better looking than the rest of this country,” exclaimed -Robert. - -“Don’t worry about that,” Mason assured him. “You’ll never see anything -prettier than these lakes as long as you live.” - -As he finished speaking they emerged from the swamp, passed through a -belt of heavy timber and came to the edge of a lake. The water was clear -as crystal and the bottom was covered with shining white pebbles. - -“This is Third Lake,” announced Mason. “What do you think of it?” - -“Wonderful!” exclaimed Robert and Joseph in amazement as they looked out -across the beautiful sheet of water. The sun was sinking low in the -western sky and its rays cast a gleam of silver and gold over the quiet -waters. As the rest of the army came up, every man stood in silence and -looked out over the lake, almost too strongly impressed to speak. - -“How big is this lake?” inquired Robert at last. - -“About ten miles around, I should say. Fourth Lake is about twice the -size.” - -War and strife were forgotten for a few moments under the spell of this -beautiful scene. The silence did not long continue, however, for the -order to camp here for the night was soon given and preparations were -made at once. Scouts came in and reported Indians but a few miles away, -but nothing happened to disturb the encampment during the night. The -next morning at daybreak the men were up and once more on the march. - -Across the isthmus between Third and Fourth Lakes swept the army. -Joseph, Robert, Mason and Deerfoot rode in front with Ewing’s spy -battalion and soon picked up the trail. It was easy to follow and more -and more evidences of the desperation of the Sacs came into view. -Apparently the Indians were discarding everything but their firearms. - -In desperate haste the army advanced. Several horses gave out, but the -troopers thus deprived of their mounts kept on on foot, not one whit -discouraged by their mishaps. - -Several Indians were shot. They were all old men who were exhausted by -hunger and unable to keep pace with the rest of their band. The morning -passed and noon came. With undiminished speed the army pressed forward. -At about half-past four in the afternoon the Indians were sighted. They -had taken up their position on the bluffs about a mile and a half from -the Wisconsin River. - -“Halt!” came the sharp command. “Dismount!” A moment later the army was -on foot, awaiting the next order. This soon came, and the men were -instructed to form in line and prepare to charge. One man out of every -four was delegated to hold the horses. - -Scarcely had the army time to do as they were commanded when the Sacs -themselves charged. Yelling like madmen they rushed down upon the -Whites. A heavy volley from their guns failed to break the lines of the -troops, however, and the fire was returned spiritedly. - -“Let ’em have it! Give it to them!” cried Robert enthusiastically. - -“Charge!” came the order. - -With a cheer the men advanced. They returned the galling fire of the -Indians with deadly effect, but their foes were not lacking in valor. - -“Keep low and close to me, Bob,” warned Joseph as they hurried forward. - -“I’m all right, Joe,” cried Robert. “Forget me and give all your -attention to those red demons over there.” - -The fire of the Whites was most effective and the Indians appeared to be -giving way. - -“They’re running,” shouted Robert. “Keep right after them.” - -Apparently what Robert had said was true. The Indians did seem to be -leaving their positions, but they certainly were not retreating, as -subsequent events soon proved. - -“We’ve got ’em!” cried Robert, who was almost beside himself with -excitement. “We’ve got ’em now, and now’s the time to finish them up.” - -“Don’t expose yourself too much, Red,” cautioned Mason, who kept close -beside the two young brothers. Robert was absolutely regardless of -danger and ran forward fearlessly, with no thought other than to load -and fire his rifle as many times as possible. - -“They can’t——” - -“Look out!” cried Mason, breaking in on what Robert had started to say. - -“What is it?” shouted Joseph in response to Mason’s warning. - -“They’re trying to flank us.” - -“Where are they?” - -As he spoke the sharp bark of several rifles sounded from some very tall -grass on one side of the battlefield. The Indians who had apparently -retreated, as a matter of fact had stolen around and into the grass -where they opened a heavy fire on the Whites. For a moment the army was -taken by surprise, but it did not last long. Quick action was needed and -quick action was taken, and luckily too. Had the Indians succeeded in -getting behind the Whites they could have caused enormous damage. - -“Charge them!” shouted General Henry. - -The command was instantly obeyed. With bayonets bared and with cheers -and shouts the white men bravely dashed forward. The troops may have -displayed cowardice in some of the previous engagements of the war, but -they were redeeming themselves now. Fearlessly and gallantly they rushed -at top speed to dislodge the enemy from his position. - -“There is no load in my gun, Bob,” shouted Joseph. - -“Nor in mine,” echoed John Mason. - -“You don’t need it,” cried Robert. “We’ll chase ’em out of there with -our fists if we haven’t anything else. My gun is loaded, but I don’t -need it.” - -A galling fire greeted their advance and several of the men dropped. The -volley was returned but feebly, for most of the men were in the -condition of Joseph and John Mason; that is, their guns were empty. No -one halted for a second, however; all increased their pace. - -“I’ll save my load,” thought Robert to himself. “I may need it more in a -few minutes than I do now.” - -At this moment a man on a gray horse dashed madly past him. Robert -recognized the rider as Colonel Jones, one of the officers. As he -glanced up at the fearless rider a bullet struck the horse, killing it -instantly. Colonel Jones was pitched headlong to the ground and Robert -rushed to see if he was hurt. - -“Were you hit, Colonel?” he demanded anxiously. - -“Never touched me,” came the quick reply, and instantly jumping to his -feet the gallant officer continued the advance. “Follow me!” he shouted, -and with a cheer the men closed in behind him. - -Absolutely regardless of consequences, fearlessly the men charged. The -grass which the Indians occupied was at least six feet tall, a fact -which rendered it very difficult for the Whites to see their opponents. -Not one man faltered, however. - -Soon they came to the edge of the grass and a desperate hand to hand -encounter took place. Stabbing with their bayonets and using the butt -ends of their guns the white soldiers slowly but surely forced their -redskinned foes to fall back. Every inch of ground was contested -stubbornly and desperately. The men became separated from one another -and individual combats took place everywhere. - -Robert had forced his way clear through to the opposite side of the high -grass and emerged into the open. As he came out he saw a white man -suddenly trip and fall headlong to the ground. With a howl of rage a -painted warrior sprang at the fallen soldier with upraised tomahawk. - -Robert’s heart almost stopped beating when he suddenly recognized the -prostrate man as his brother Joseph. - - - - - CHAPTER XXVIII - THE TRAIL LEADS WESTWARD - - -There was not a second to lose. The Indian would surely be upon Joseph -before he could raise himself from his fallen position and even should -he be able to get up he would stand no chance of escape. If Joseph’s -life was to be saved, it was Robert who must do it. But how was it to be -done? He had fired the charge which had been in his gun and he had had -no chance to reload. The bloodthirsty Sac was nearer to Joseph than he, -and would evidently reach the spot first. The case looked desperate. - -All of this happened in the twinkling of an eye. Robert rather felt than -thought these things as he saw the Indian rushing toward his helpless -brother. “The only relative I have left in the world,” thought Robert -as, with a choking cry, he started forward. Glory was forgotten. Bravery -was forgotten. The impulsive young pioneer remembered only that his -brother was in terrible and immediate danger. - -The Indian was now about ten yards from Joseph, who was striving -desperately to regain his feet. Robert was at least twenty yards -distant. He shouted to Joseph, but Joseph had already seen the Sac -approaching and was doing his utmost to get out of the way. Robert’s cry -did not warn him of his peril, but only served to bring a faint ray of -hope into his mind that he might yet escape. - -Robert saw instantly that it was out of the question for him to reach -his brother before the Indian would be upon him. He stopped and started -to swing his rifle about his head with some hazy idea of throwing it at -his enemy. Before he could put this plan into execution, however, a -strange thing occurred. Something flashed in the rays of the afternoon -sun and with a cry the onrushing Indian suddenly threw up his hands and -pitched forward, stumbling and tripping until he fell to the ground limp -and helpless. - -A tomahawk coming from some place in the tall grass had struck the Sac -warrior full in the forehead and put an end to his fighting forever. So -suddenly and so unexpectedly had this fortunate event taken place that -neither of the two boys realized for a few moments just what had -occurred. Joseph sank back upon the ground and Robert merely stood with -open mouth and a dazed expression on his face, staring stupidly at the -dead form of the Indian at his feet. - -The mystery was not long unsolved, however. The tall grass parted and -out stepped Deerfoot, as calm and stoical as ever, his face as -expressionless as a statue. - -“So you did it, did you?” exclaimed Robert as soon as he found his -voice. - -“Deerfoot!” cried Joseph and the young soldier could say no more. - -The Pottowattomie paid no attention to either of the boys. He picked up -his tomahawk which now was lying upon the ground, and then advanced to -the spot where the body of his fallen enemy lay. Without a word he -whipped out his knife and soon possessed himself of another Sac scalp. -The two brothers looked on in silence. - -“How can I ever thank you?” cried Joseph, walking up to Deerfoot. - -“No try.” - -“But, Deerfoot, you saved my life,” protested Joseph, tears of gratitude -appearing in his eyes as he spoke. - -“Why not save life?” demanded Deerfoot simply. “You my brother. Me -always save brother’s life.” He extended his hand to Joseph, who grasped -it in silence. Then the Pottowattomie turned to Robert and also shook -hands with him. - -This solemn rite having been performed, the three brothers turned their -attention to the fight. For a time they had been oblivious to everything -but their own affairs. The fight was ended, however. The Indians had -been driven from their positions and now occupied a piece of rising -ground overlooking the Wisconsin River. - -They remained in that place only a short time, however, for the troops -pursued them relentlessly. The Sacs fired a few more shots from the top -of the rise and then turned and retreated swiftly down the bluffs to -join the main body, which was engaged in crossing the river. The troops -soon occupied the bluffs, and further pursuit was considered useless. - -Between the army and the river was a swampy bit of ground, some sixty -yards wide. On the river bank was a heavy growth of timber. The white -commanders seeing that the Indians could reach this protection before -being overtaken decided to give up the chase for the night. - -“A few more battles like that and the war will soon be over,” remarked -Robert enthusiastically, when camp had been pitched. - -“Yes,” agreed Mason. “They seem to be on the run now all right.” - -“I’m glad I was in it,” exclaimed Robert. “It is a pleasanter sensation -to be the one to do the winning than it is to have to run away. Until -now we have been mostly on the defensive.” - -“I’m glad I was in it, too,” said Joseph quietly. “I’m more than glad to -be here right now though. If it hadn’t been for Deerfoot I’d have been -dead.” - -“There’s no doubt of that,” agreed Robert heartily. “Deerfoot,” he -added, “you are a hero. Get up and make a bow.” - -“No bow,” said Deerfoot. He shifted his position uncomfortably and was -much embarrassed by these remarks of Robert’s. He did not desire praise -for doing what he considered merely his duty. - -Robert loved to tease his red brother, however, and seeing how -uncomfortable his words made Deerfoot he decided to continue them. - -“You must make a bow, Deerfoot,” he continued. “Whenever a man saves -another’s life he always has to make a bow.” - -“No bow,” protested Deerfoot, looking about for some avenue of escape. - -“Of course not,” exclaimed Joseph, coming to the rescue of the -embarrassed Pottowattomie. “Don’t pay any attention to what he says, -Deerfoot.” - -The army turned in and soon most of the men were asleep. Everyone slept -on his arms, for the region was infested with prowling Indians and no -one wished to be taken unawares by a sudden attack. No incident of note -occurred, however, until just about an hour and a half before the dawn -of the following day. Joseph, naturally a light sleeper, awoke with a -start. He had a strange feeling that someone had been talking to him. He -sat up and looked about him. The stars were out and the camp was dimly -illuminated by their ghostlike light. “I must have been dreaming,” -thought Joseph. - -Suddenly he realized that he had not been dreaming after all. A voice, -loud, shrill, and speaking in an unknown tongue could be heard -distinctly. The sound came from the direction of the knoll, which Black -Hawk, seated on a white pony, had occupied during the battle. - -“Wake up, Bob,” exclaimed Joseph excitedly. He shook his brother, who -was instantly wide awake and on his feet. The rest of the camp was soon -aroused and a great panic ensued. The strange voice continued to be -heard and nearly every man present thought it was merely a prelude to a -great attack on the part of the Indians. - -“What is it, do you suppose?” exclaimed Robert in alarm. - -“I’m sure I can’t tell you,” replied Mason. “It is certainly strange.” - -“Let’s fire a volley in that direction,” cried Robert eagerly. “Perhaps -if we do that it will show them we are prepared and they will be scared -off.” - -“Don’t be silly,” exclaimed Joseph in alarm. “At any rate we couldn’t -fire without orders.” - -“Isn’t it weird?” said Mason. - -The harangue continued uninterruptedly while the army sat and quaked -with fear. At any moment the men expected to be set upon by a band of -bloodthirsty Sacs. Some of the more timid were in favor of decamping at -once. So great was the alarm in the camp that General Henry found it -necessary to deliver a patriotic speech to rally the sinking spirits of -his men. - -“Don’t you understand what the voice is saying, Deerfoot?” inquired John -Mason at last. - -“Me no understand,” answered Deerfoot, and in fact he was apparently -just as much puzzled as all the others at the strange performance. - -Suddenly the harangue ceased. For over an hour it had continued without -interruption, but just before daylight the speaker stopped talking and -the voice was heard no more. Until broad daylight appeared the army -anxiously awaited the expected attack. It did not come, however. Scouts -could discover no Indians in the neighborhood and the purpose of the -harangue remained as great a mystery as ever. - -On the twenty-third of July, General Henry’s corps set out for Blue -Mounds to secure provisions. Mason, Joseph, Robert and Deerfoot went -with this detachment and arriving there that evening were joined by -Generals Atkinson and Alexander. The two commanders had heard of the -rapid pursuit of Black Hawk and had hastily set out from Lake Koshkonong -to join the victorious army. - -General Atkinson at once assumed command of all the forces collected at -Blue Mounds. He distributed rations and ordered the pursuit at once to -be resumed. The army departed and during the days of July twenty-seventh -and twenty-eighth crossed the Wisconsin River. Rafts, made from the log -houses at the deserted village of Helena, carried the army across the -stream. The advance was continued and General Henry’s brigade was -ordered to bring up the rear in charge of the baggage. - -“Why do you suppose they put us back here?” exclaimed Robert hotly. “We -have done most of the fighting and this is our reward. Now if we catch -up with Black Hawk again those others will have first chance and will -get all the glory. We’ll be left out of it almost entirely.” - -“You just said why it was done,” remarked John Mason quietly. - -“No, I asked why it was done,” corrected Robert. - -“You said we had done most of the fighting so far,” explained Mason. -“That, to my mind, is why we are stationed back here.” - -“What do you mean?” demanded Joseph, greatly puzzled by his friend’s -remark. - -“Simply this: General Henry has gotten what little glory there has been -to get in this war. The others are jealous of him and jealous of the way -he won the battle at Wisconsin Heights. They think that the next fight -will put an end to the war and they don’t intend that General Henry -shall get any credit for that, if they can help it.” - -“Is that really so?” exclaimed Robert. - -“I’m sure of it,” replied Mason. “I shouldn’t like to be quoted as -saying so, though.” - -“It’s a pretty mean trick, I should say,” cried Robert. “I hope General -Henry will fool them. He has three hundred men in his brigade, and if I -were in his place I’d take them and go off on my own hook. We’ve got -enough here to defeat all Black Hawk can put in the field.” - -“General Henry must obey orders, Red,” reminded Mason. He smiled at the -boy’s impetuosity, and, though he concealed it, had somewhat the same -feeling that Robert had. - -Five or six miles northeast of Helena the trail was discovered leading -westward toward the Mississippi. The country it traversed was rugged and -unfamiliar to the Whites. Their Indian guides were scarcely better -acquainted with it and evidently Black Hawk had chosen this route to -retard the progress of the white army and give his people more time to -escape. - -Great swamps loomed up before the army. Rushing rivers had to be -crossed, while thickly wooded hills constantly imposed themselves -between the Whites and the fleeing redskins. The trail grew constantly -fresher, however, and this fact spurred the men on. Corpses of dead Sacs -strewed the pathway; some had died of wounds and some of starvation. -Dead ponies, the flesh partly eaten from their sides, and the -half-chewed pieces of bark showed how desperately in need of food the -Indians were. - -On the night of August first an old Sac Indian was captured. Unable to -keep pace with the main body he had been abandoned. The army was now -about ten miles from the Mississippi and from the captured Indian it was -learned that Black Hawk intended to cross the great river early the -following day. General Atkinson’s army was nearly exhausted from its -recent exertions and he decided that a few hours’ rest was absolutely -necessary for his men. Accordingly, a halt was called about eight -o’clock of the evening of August first, and orders given to proceed at -two o’clock the following morning. - -At that hour the bugles sounded and the army once more was soon on the -march. A grim spirit of determination filled the men and they were eager -for the fray. - -“I wish we were in front,” complained Robert as they started out. - -“Don’t worry, Red,” advised Mason. “I have a feeling that we’ll get all -the fighting we want, all right.” - -“Look at Deerfoot,” directed Joseph in a low voice. - -The Pottowattomie rode proudly forward, his head held high and a gleam -in his eyes that boded ill for his enemies. His attitude reflected that -of the whole army. - - - - - CHAPTER XXIX - BAD AXE - - -Suddenly shots were heard. A bugle sounded and the men realized that the -deciding struggle of the war had commenced. Orders were at once given -for the army to form for the attack. An orderly came riding furiously -through the lines with orders from General Atkinson. Alexander and Posey -with their commands formed the right wing, Dodge with his regulars the -center, and General Henry the left. - -The firing increased. Dense timber afforded a protection to the Sacs and -hindered the operations of the army. An advance was ordered, however, -and the Indians withdrew slowly. Their fire seemed to come from a wide -range of ground and it was confidently believed that now the main body -of Black Hawk’s force had been encountered. Upstream the Indians -retreated. A proof of John Mason’s remark as to the jealousy borne -General Henry was provided by the commands which next were issued. The -right wing and the center were ordered to pursue the savages. General -Henry, however, received no orders at all and so was apparently left out -of the fight entirely. This was evidently part of a plan to deprive him -of any share in the honor which everyone felt was to be won in this -fight. - -“A mean shame!” protested John Mason hotly. “I knew they were going to -try something like this all the time.” - -“I should say it is a shame!” cried Robert angrily. “Why should we stand -for it?” - -“What can we do?” queried Joseph. “We are left here with no orders. -Certainly if they wanted us they would have asked us to come.” - -“Well then, if we have no orders why can’t we go anywhere we please?” -Robert protested. “I’d follow along if I were General Henry.” - -“We can’t do that,” said Mason. “I guess we’re left.” - -Henry’s brigade was stationed on the top of a bluff, not far from the -river. - -Sounds of firing came to the men left there and a feeling of intense -rage at the affront offered them possessed everyone present. For days -and weeks they had fought their way through countless difficulties and -had endured untold hardships. Now that the prize was almost in their -grasp they were denied any share in it. - -Suddenly two men on horseback appeared, riding furiously from the -direction of the river. - -“Two of Ewing’s spy battalion,” announced Joseph, as he recognized the -men. “I wonder what they want.” - -The horsemen at once sought General Henry and excitedly began to talk -and gesticulate to him. They continually pointed toward the river in the -direction whence they had come. As they finished speaking, General Henry -drew his sword, waved it above his head and gave the order to advance. - -“What is it? What’s going on?” demanded Robert. - -Many more were asking the same questions and the answers were not long -in forthcoming. The spies had discovered that the main trail was farther -down the river than the course of the Indians pursued by the center and -right wing. Evidently the Sacs first encountered were merely decoys who -were purposely attempting to lead the army astray. - -“What luck!” cried Robert joyously. “They tried to leave us out but we -stumbled into the main affair after all.” - -Down the steep sides of the bluff General Henry led his troops. Arriving -at the base, the men found themselves on a wooded plateau which -stretched between the bluff and the shore. On the other side of the -timber, Black Hawk was stationed. - -A bullet tore some leaves from a tree close to Joseph’s head. A second -bullet followed the first and soon a perfect hail of lead was cutting -its way through the forest. The trooper next to Deerfoot had his horse -shot from under him. The bugle sounded and with a shout the men dashed -forward. Over dead logs, under low hanging branches and through thick -clumps of bushes they forced their way. A galling fire raked their lines -from end to end but not a man faltered. - -As yet no sight of the Indians appeared. That they were present was -testified to, however, by the energetic fusillade they kept up. Suddenly -the woods thinned and the brigade found itself in the midst of about -three hundred warriors. The numbers on each side consequently were even. - -Savage yells and whoops rent the air. Mixed with these were the cheers -and shouts of the troops who urged one another forward. No man needed -much urging, however, for everyone was there to do his duty and it was -done with no thought of flinching. - -“Dismount!” came the order from the bugle. - -Instantly every man sprang from his horse’s back, and quickly tethering -his mount to some nearby tree, continued the attack on foot. Every tree -seemed to shelter a hostile Indian, and the Whites themselves took -advantage of every bit of cover that offered itself. - -“Keep close together, boys!” urged John Mason, as, rifle in hand, he -started forward with Deerfoot and the two brothers. “Watch every tree -and don’t let yourselves be taken by surprise.” - -“Look out!” warned Joseph suddenly. “There’s an Indian.” He pointed to a -large tree in front of them and as he spoke a shaved head appeared on -one side, a rifle was quickly raised and a bullet sang close above the -heads of the four troopers. - -“Quick! Before he can reload!” cried Robert, and at full speed he darted -forward toward the tree which sheltered their enemy. - -“Follow him! Follow him!” shouted Mason. “Two on each side.” - -Robert was the first to reach the spot, but the Sac had fled. A movement -in the bushes close at hand warned him of the Indian’s presence, -however, and quickly raising his rifle he fired. He saw a body fall, -crashing to the ground and knew that his aim had been true. - -“Bob!” shouted Joseph. “Look out! Behind you!” - -Robert unconsciously dropped to the ground in response to his brother’s -warning. He was not a second too soon. A tomahawk whizzed over his head -and buried itself deep in the trunk of a nearby tree. Robert shuddered -as he realized how narrow an escape he had had. The brave who had made -this attempt on his life, however, did not long escape the attention of -his intended victim’s companions. Three rifles spoke almost at the same -instant and one more Sac was added to those already lost by Black Hawk. - -“We’d better keep under cover more,” Mason advised when Robert had -rejoined his comrades. “It’s all right to dash out and chase Indians -from behind trees but it’s risky business.” - -“We must do it if we are going to win,” protested Robert. - -“Not at all,” retorted Mason. “We’ll drive them off all right without -having to expose ourselves as much as you did.” - -The noise was terrific. The reports of the guns filled the air and the -constant whoops of the Indians added a weird note to the din. How often -the two brothers had heard the war whoop. This time, however, it was -tempered by the shouts and cheers of the troops and its effect -consequently was not as horrifying. - -“Here comes Atkinson!” cried Joseph suddenly. The fight had been in -progress for half an hour and General Henry’s men were more than holding -their own. - -“He heard the noise,” exclaimed Mason. “I’m sorry for it, too. After the -way he treated General Henry he doesn’t deserve to be in this at all.” - -“It will finish it up quicker, that’s all,” said Robert, who was -feverishly engaged in reloading his rifle. He was intent upon doing his -full share in the battle and he was fearful that he might waste a -moment. - -“They’ll be nearly surrounded now,” remarked Joseph. “This is the end of -Black Hawk, I guess.” - -The battle now degenerated into a massacre. The Indians put up a -stubborn defense until the last, but their case was hopeless. They were -outnumbered and they were also weakened by lack of food. The nature of -the ground was to their advantage, however. Deep ravines, old logs, -swamp holes, high grass and weeds abounded, providing excellent -protection to the warriors. Knowing that they were doomed they fought -desperately, determined to sell their lives as dearly as possible. - -“This is too much for me,” exclaimed Joseph at length. - -“What’s the matter, Joe?” demanded Robert. - -“I can fight, but I can’t slaughter people,” replied Joseph with a -shudder. - -“I was just thinking the same thing,” remarked John Mason. “I saw one of -our men shoot a wounded Indian a few minutes ago. That settles me.” - -“It’s awful,” cried Joseph. “This isn’t war. It is butchery.” - -“They butchered us, though,” Robert maintained stoutly. “Why shouldn’t -we give them what they gave us?” - -“They don’t know any better, Bob,” said Mason. “They are savages, but we -are supposed to be civilized, and we ought to know better, if we don’t. -A fair fight is one thing, but this is not fair.” - -“Look there!” cried Joseph. “Did you see that?” - -“No, what was it?” demanded Robert. - -“An Indian girl held up her hands to surrender, and somebody shot her -down. Do you call that right?” - -“I certainly do not,” admitted Robert. “Where’s Deerfoot?” - -“In the thick of it, I suppose,” answered Joseph. “We can’t stop him, -for he wouldn’t understand, but we can at least keep out of it -ourselves.” - -The three volunteers were now standing on a bluff overlooking the great -river. The Indians were hopelessly beaten and were making desperate -efforts to escape. Men, women and children were trying to swim across -the river, but many were drowned and others coolly picked off by -sharpshooters stationed on the bank. The sight was sickening. The ground -was littered with the corpses of Indians and many of the white men were -taking scalps as freely as their red enemies ever did. - -“There are a whole lot of Indians on that island,” cried Robert pointing -to a small piece of ground covered with willows which lay not far from -the shore. - -“Not for long, though,” said Mason grimly. “Here comes the _Warrior_.” - -The _Warrior_ was a small steamer used to transport army supplies. On -board were a few regulars and volunteers and a small cannon. The boat -approached close to the island that Robert had indicated and fired round -after round of canister, raking it from end to end. As if this were not -enough a detachment of troops was landed on the island soon after the -bombardment and with bayonets completed the destruction of the few -remaining survivors. - -“Do you suppose any one escaped?” asked Robert. - -“From the island?” queried Mason. “Not a single soul, I’m sure.” - -“Do you think any Indians escaped at all?” - -“I think so. Some crossed the river before we got here.” - -“Not many, I guess,” exclaimed Joseph. “Black Hawk hasn’t enough men -left to do any damage now. The war is ended.” - -“Yes,” agreed Mason. “The war is ended. We can now go back to our homes -and lead peaceable lives once more. For my part I’m glad of it.” - -“I’d be, too, if I had a home to go to,” remarked Joseph sadly. - -“We’ve had our revenge, though, Joe,” exclaimed Robert. - -“Yes, we’ve had that, all right. At least Black Hawk has been punished, -though we didn’t do so much of it.” - -“You did your share,” said John Mason warmly. “You got one good thing -out of the war, too, Joe.” - -“What was that?” asked Joseph. - -“The Swallow.” - -“I certainly did,” exclaimed Joseph warmly. “I think I’ll go see if he -is all right. I’d hate to have him stolen at this late date.” - -“We’ll all go,” said Mason. “The fight is over and we might as well -leave. Where’s Deerfoot?” - -“He here,” replied a familiar voice as Deerfoot appeared from behind a -large clump of willows. He had an expression of grim satisfaction on his -face and at his belt hung three new scalps. The boys could not repress a -feeling of disgust as they saw these bloody trophies. They had witnessed -a great deal of killing and seen much gore in the past few weeks, but -instead of becoming accustomed to it, they were thoroughly sick of it -all. - -“Where’s Black Hawk?” demanded Robert of Deerfoot. “Did you capture or -kill him?” - -“Black Hawk run away,” replied Deerfoot. - -“If he is still at large we may have trouble yet,” remarked Mason -somewhat anxiously. “He is a very smart man and may be able to collect -more braves and come back for revenge some time.” - -“Don’t you think he realizes that it is hopeless to resist?” asked -Joseph. - -“I don’t know,” said Mason, shaking his head. “I have a feeling that we -are always going to have trouble until he is put out of the way. I wish -someone would capture him.” - - - - - CHAPTER XXX - CONCLUSION - - -John Mason had wished for Black Hawk’s capture. His wish was fulfilled -and as fortune would have it, he, Deerfoot and both Joseph and Robert -were present when the great chief was delivered into the hands of his -enemies. - -After the battle of Bad Axe the volunteers were mustered out of service -and the fighting came to an end. All resistance on the part of the -Indians had been broken, and out of a thousand Sacs who had crossed the -Mississippi and invaded the settlements in April, only a hundred and -fifty now remained. Black Hawk had escaped, but Indians of hostile -tribes were put on his trail and at length succeeded in capturing him. - -On the twenty-seventh day of August, 1832, John Mason, Deerfoot, Joseph -and Robert were at Prairie du Chien. This was not far from the scene of -the last battle and the four friends were still in that vicinity, -chiefly because they had no other place to which they might go. At least -the two brothers had no home, and Deerfoot would leave them under no -conditions. John Mason remained with his young friends, thinking he -might still be of service to them, and could offer them advice as to -starting life afresh. - -They were all talking to the Indian Agent, a man named Street, and were -seeking his knowledge of the country in the hope he might be able to -help them in the selection of a new home. Suddenly a commotion started -outside and everyone rushed to see what the cause of the excitement was. -Into the streets of the town marched two Winnebagos, Chaetar and -One-eyed Decorah by name. Between them and with head held high, walked -Black Hawk. - -“Black Hawk is captured!” cried Mason. “There he is now!” - -Everyone in the crowd surged forward to obtain a glimpse of the famous -redman and Joseph and Robert were in the very first row. Straight to the -office of the Indian Agent the old warrior was led and then Agent Street -came forward to meet him. - -Black Hawk was indeed an imposing figure. He was clad in a suit of white -doeskin. His hair was all plucked out with the exception of the -scalp-lock and in that were fastened some eagle’s feathers. He was short -in stature, as he was only about five feet four or five inches tall. His -face was thin, with the high cheek bones characteristic of his race. His -mouth was large and when in repose his lips remained slightly parted. He -had a prominent nose of what is called the Roman type. His eyes were -bright and piercing, but with a thoughtful expression in them. He had no -eyebrows and his forehead was high and broad. His head he kept thrown -back and his pose gave the impression of dignity and of one accustomed -to command. - -“He’s not very beautiful,” whispered Robert. “He looks smart, though.” - -“He is smart,” exclaimed John Mason. “He certainly led us a dance.” - -“You know I feel sort of sorry for him,” said Joseph. “I never had any -pity for him when we were fighting him but he looks sort of pitiful -now.” - -“Not to me,” cried Robert. “I can’t forget what he did to us.” - -Speeches were now made by the different men in the assembly. Black -Hawk’s two captors related how they had captured the prisoner at the -Wisconsin River Dells, and Agent Street congratulated, them on their -good work. Finally Black Hawk’s turn came and he arose slowly and -proudly from his seat. In a steady and clear voice he faced the crowd -and spoke as follows: - -“You have taken me prisoner with all my warriors. I am much grieved, for -I expected if I did not defeat you, to hold out much longer, and give -you more trouble before I surrendered. I tried hard to bring you into -ambush, but your last general understands Indian fighting. The first one -was not so wise. When I saw I could not beat you by Indian fighting I -determined to rush on you, and fight you face to face. I fought hard. -But your guns were well aimed. The bullets flew like birds in the air -and whizzed by our ears like the wind through the trees in winter. My -warriors fell around me; it began to look dismal. I saw my evil day at -hand. The sun rose dim on us in the morning and at night it sank in a -dark cloud, and looked like a ball of fire. That was the last sun that -shone on Black Hawk. His heart is dead, and no longer beats quick in his -bosom. He is now a prisoner of the white men; they will do with him as -they wish. But he can stand torture and is not afraid of death. He is no -coward. Black Hawk is an Indian. - -“He has done nothing for which an Indian ought to be ashamed. He has -fought for his countrymen, the squaws and the papooses, against white -men, who came year after year to cheat him and take away their lands. -You know the cause of our making war. It is known to all white men. They -ought to be ashamed of it. The white men despise the Indians, and drive -them from their homes. But the Indians are not deceitful. The white men -speak bad of the Indian, and look at him spitefully. But the Indian does -not tell lies; Indians do not steal. - -“An Indian who is as bad as the white men could not live in our nation; -he would be put to death and eaten up by the wolves. The white men are -bad schoolmasters; they carry false books. They smile in the face of the -poor Indian to cheat him; they shake him by the hand to gain his -confidence, to make him drunk, to deceive and ruin him. We told them to -let us alone and keep away from us, but they followed on and beset our -paths, and they coiled themselves among us like the snake. They poisoned -us by their touch. We were not safe. We lived in danger. We were -becoming like them, hypocrites and liars, all talkers and no workers. - -“We looked up to the Great Spirit. We went to our great father. We were -encouraged. His great council gave us fair words and big promises; but -we got no satisfaction. Things were growing worse. There were no deer in -the forest. The opossum and beaver were fled; the springs were drying -up, and our squaws and papooses were without victuals to keep them from -starving. We called a great council and built a large fire. The spirit -of our fathers arose and spoke to us to avenge our wrongs or die. We all -spoke before the council fire. It was warm and pleasant. We set up the -war whoop and dug up the tomahawk; our knives were ready and the heart -of Black Hawk swelled high in his bosom when he led his warriors to -battle. He is satisfied. He will go to the world of spirits contented. -He has done his duty. His father will meet him there and commend him. - -“Black Hawk is a true Indian and disdains to cry like a woman. He feels -for his wife, his children and friends. But he does not care for -himself. He cares for his nation and the Indians. They will suffer. He -laments their fate. The white men poison the heart. My countrymen will -in a few years become like the white men, so that you cannot trust them, -and there must be as in the white settlements, nearly as many officers -as men to take care of them and keep them in order. - -“Farewell, my nation. Black Hawk tried to save you, and avenge your -wrongs. He drank the blood of some of the Whites. He has been taken -prisoner and his plans are stopped. He can do no more. He is near his -end. His sun is setting and he will rise no more. Farewell to Black -Hawk.” - -He finished speaking and a silence fell upon the crowd gathered to hear -him. He had made a profound impression and his hearers were deeply -affected. - -“I certainly feel sorry for that man,” exclaimed Joseph at length. - -“So do I,” agreed Mason. “He tried to do right as he saw it and now he -is broken-hearted and discouraged.” - -“His spirit is not broken, though,” said Robert warmly. - -“I should think not,” exclaimed Joseph. “It never will be either. As he -says himself, ‘he is an Indian’.” - -“He doesn’t think much of the white men, does he?” said Robert. - -“Not much,” agreed John Mason. “I don’t blame him, for they have given -the Indians a pretty rough treatment as a rule.” - -“There are bad Indians, just as there are bad white men,” said Joseph. -“I guess the bad white men are more numerous, though.” - -“Ugh,” grunted Deerfoot. - -“Did you agree with that remark?” cried Robert, advancing toward -Deerfoot with a threatening air. “You know what will happen to you if -you did.” - -Deerfoot smiled grimly at his young friend’s remarks. He was gradually -becoming used to the teasing he was constantly subjected to and he was -learning how to take it in good spirits. - -“Me no afraid,” he exclaimed and almost laughed as he spoke. - -“You’re improving, Deerfoot. You’ll be all right soon,” laughed Robert -as he slapped his Pottowattomie friend heartily on the back. - -“Come on, Bob,” urged Joseph. “It’s time for us to be leaving. There -goes Black Hawk.” - -The four friends turned to look and saw Black Hawk being led away down -the street. Two soldiers walked on each side of him, while with head -still held proudly erect the aged warrior marched silently on and thus -passed from the sight of John Mason, Deerfoot, Robert and Joseph -forever. - - - THE END - ------------------------------------------------------------------------- - - - - - TRANSCRIBER’S NOTES - - - 1. Silently corrected typographical errors and variations in spelling. - 2. Archaic, non-standard, and uncertain spellings retained as printed. - 3. 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