The north wind had ceased - as was usual with the
setting of the sun, and a light air arose from the south. This
change favoring the design of Deerslayer, he lifted his grapnel,
and the scow immediately and quite perceptibly began to drift more
into the lake. The sail was set, when the motion of the craft
increased to a rate not much less than two miles in the hour. As
this superseded the necessity of rowing, an occupation that an Indian
would not be likely to desire, Deerslayer, Chingachgook and Judith
seated themselves in the stern of the scow, where they first governed
its movements by holding the oar. Here they discoursed on their
future movements, and on the means that ought to be used in order
to effect the liberation of their friends.
In this dialogue Judith held a material part, the Delaware readily
understanding all she said, while his own replies and remarks,
both of which were few and pithy, were occasionally rendered into
English by his friend. Judith rose greatly in the estimation of her
companions, in the half hour that followed. Prompt of resolution
and firm of purpose, her suggestions and expedients partook of
her spirit and sagacity, both of which were of a character to find
favor with men of the frontier.
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