Page:The last of the Mohicans (1826 Volume 2).djvu/273

From Wikisource
Jump to navigation Jump to search
This page has been proofread, but needs to be validated.
THE MOHICANS.
267

who is already formed by so powerful a hand as Providence, stands in need of a change," muttered the discontented scout. "When you send your parties abroad in war, you find it prudent, at least to arrange the marks and places of encampment, in order that they who fight on your side, may know when and where to expect a friend?"

"Listen," interrupted Duncan; "you have heard from this faithful follower of the captives, that the Indians are of two tribes, if not of different nations. With one whom you think to be a branch of the Delawares, is she you call the 'dark-hair;' the other, and younger of the ladies, is undeniably with our declared enemies, the Hurons. It becomes my youth and rank to attempt the latter adventure. While you, therefore, are negotiating with your friends for the release of one of the sisters, I will effect that of the other, or die."

The awakened spirit of the young soldier gleamed in his eyes, and his form dilated and became imposing under its influence. Hawk-eye, though too much accustomed to