From the circumstances of the case, these must have been arranged in
this manner subsequently to the visit of the Shawnees, and it was this
fact which awakened the curiosity of the Lieutenant. His first
supposition was that it was the doings of the Huron. But what reason
could he have had for rearing such a structure? What possible purpose
could it serve him?
All at once it flashed upon the Lieutenant that it was the work of the
Shawnees themselves, and he began to view the contrivance with some
apprehension. This feeling was considerably strengthened when he
either heard or fancied he heard the movement of some one within it.
Prudence dictated that he should place a little more distance between
it and himself. Accordingly he began to retreat, walking backward and
keeping his gaze fixed upon it, ready for any demonstration from his
concealed enemies.
Suddenly something within the hollow of the structure fell with a dull
thump that nearly lifted the Lieutenant from his feet. At the same
moment he heard a suppressed growl, as if made by a caged bear. He now
began to feel more wonder than fear.
"What in the name of creation is the meaning of that concern, and what
sort of animal is caged in it?" he muttered, staying his retreat.
The Lieutenant debated whether or not to approach and examine the
interior of the odd-looking hut. It seemed hardly possible that any
human being could be within, although it was certain there was some
living object there.
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