afforded a melancholy prospect. Isaac Still was himself dubious of our lives. We did not let Mr. Hays know of the danger. I said, "As God hath stopped the mouth of the lions, that they could not devour Daniel, so he will preserve us from their fury, and bring us through." I had a discourse with Mr. Hays concerning our message, and begged him he would pray to God for grace and wisdom, that he would grant us peace among this people. We will remain in stillness, and not look to our own credit. We are in the service of our king and country. This people are rebellious in heart.
Now we are here to reconcile them again to the General, Governor, and the English nation; to turn them again from their errors. And I wished that God would grant us his grace, whereby we may do it; which I hope and believe he will do. Mr. Hays took it to heart and was convinced of all; which much rejoiced me. I begged Isaac Still to watch over himself and not to be discouraged; for I hoped the storm would soon pass by.
In the afternoon all the captains gathered together in the middle town; they sent for us, and desired we should give them information of our message. Accordingly we did. We read the message with great satisfaction to them. It was a great pleasure both to them and us. The number of captains and counsellors were sixteen. In the evening messengers arrived from fort Duquesne, with a string of wampum from the commander; upon which they all came together in the house where we lodged. The messengers delivered their string, with these words from their father, the French King:
"My children, come to me, and hear what I have to say. The Englijh are coming with an army to destroy both you and me. I therefore desire you immediately,
