And, now, ask the Sarpent to come and speak with me,
for a moment, and carry away with you all my best wishes and prayers.
I shall think of you, Hist, and of your intended husband, let what
may come to pass, and always wish you well, here and hereafter,
whether the last is to be according to Indian idees, or Christian
doctrines."
Hist shed no tear at parting. She was sustained by the high
resolution of one who had decided on her course, but her dark eyes
were luminous with the feelings that glowed within, and her pretty
countenance beamed with an expression of determination that was in
marked and singular contrast to its ordinary gentleness. It was
but a minute ere the Delaware advanced to the side of his friend
with the light, noiseless tread of an Indian.
"Come this-a-way, Sarpent, here more out of sight of the women,"
commenced the Deerslayer, "for I've several things to say that
mustn't so much as be suspected, much less overheard. You know
too well the natur' of furloughs and Mingos to have any doubts or
misgivin's consarnin' what is like to happen, when I get back to
the camp. On them two p'ints therefore, a few words will go a great
way. In the first place, chief, I wish to say a little about Hist,
and the manner in which you red men treat your wives.
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