" He added that he was not influenced by
"pussonal fear, but was simply actin' on de advice ob de Leftenant."
Accordingly, Cato took his departure. Our two friends watched him as
he shuffled across the clearing, and finally disappeared in the shadowy
wood beyond.
Then the Huron turned to the duty before him. Taking a northerly
direction, he proceeded at such a rapid walk that the young soldier was
compelled every now and then to run a few steps to maintain his place
beside him. He kept up his pace for a half-hour or so, when he
suddenly halted.
"Fast walk--make breathe fast," said he, his black eye sparkling.
"It is rather rapid walking, Oonomoo, but I can stand it. Don't stop
on my account."
"Plenty time--git dar mornin'--soon enough."
"How far are we from the Shawnee village?"
"Two--eight--dozen miles--go in canoe part way."
"When will we rescue her from the dogs--the Shawnees?" asked the young
Lieutenant, scarcely able to restrain his curiosity.
"Dunno--may be can't get her 't all."
"Won't get her?" he repeated, his heart throbbing painfully. "My God,
Oonomoo, why do you say that?"
"'Cause true--hain't got her yit--may be won't--Shawnee watch
close--t'ink Oonomoo 'bout."
"But you _expect_ to rescue her, do you not?"
"Yeh, 'spect to--do all can--ain't sartin--mustn't t'ink I am--be ready
for her dead."
"I will try to be prepared for the worst, Oonomoo, but I place great
hopes on you.
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