The attempt was desperate, but it seemed to be the only
chance for escaping torture and death, and it suited the reckless
daring of the man's character. Waiting to the last moment, in order
that the stern of the scow might fairly rub against the platform,
he began to writhe again, as if in intolerable suffering, execrating
all Indians in general, and the Hurons in particular, and then he
suddenly and rapidly rolled over and over, taking the direction of
the stern of the scow. Unfortunately, Hurry's shoulders required
more space to revolve in than his feet, and by the time he reached the
edge of the platform his direction had so far changed as to carry
him clear of the Ark altogether, and the rapidity of his revolutions
and the emergency admitting of no delay, he fell into the water. At
this instant, Chingachgook, by an understanding with his betrothed,
drew the fire of the Hurons again, not a man of whom saw the
manner in which one whom they knew to be effectually tethered,
had disappeared. But Hist's feelings were strongly interested in
the success of so bold a scheme, and she watched the movements of
Hurry as the cat watches the mouse. The moment he was in motion
she foresaw the consequences, and this the more readily, as the scow
was now beginning to move with some steadiness, and she bethought
her of the means of saving him.
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