It was abundantly sufficient to satisfy
the Huron. He did not doubt for an instant. His only uncertainty was
in regard to the precise location of his foes. A few minutes'
observation satisfied him that they were not between the canoe and the
river. His course of action was accordingly determined. It would have
been the easiest matter in the world for him to have escaped by
swimming the river; but as an opportunity for a contest of skill with
his enemies was offered, he was too proud not to embrace it at once.
Retreating several rods, he continued his way upstream in his usual
cautious manner, until he had gone perhaps a furlong above his canoe,
when he approached and entered the stream.
The Miami, at this point, was so heavily wooded, that it was impossible
to pass close under its shore without entering the water. Once within
this and in a stooping position, a person would be invisible to any one
on the same bank, although he could be plainly seen from the opposite
shore. Oonomoo now commenced his descent of the river with the
intention of recovering his canoe. This was necessarily a tedious and
prolonged operation, as a single misstep, a slip or splash of the water
might betray him to his enemies. But, he was equal to the task, and
never hesitated for a moment except to listen for some sign of his
enemies.
The Shawnees, by the merest accident, had discovered the Huron's canoe
and examined it.
Pages:
26
27
28
29
30
31
32
33
34
35
36
37
38
39
40
41
42
43
44
45
46
47
48
49
50