CHAPTER XX

TEMPERED PUNISHMENT

Darkness came, and with it the long-expected Indians. They were a
score in all, and they glided like spectres along the shore and up to
the lodge in the thicket. It was a joyous greeting they received as
they gathered around the fire, and for a few minutes there was a
regular babel of tongues, although Jean did not understand a word that
was being said. At length the visitors ceased talking and listened to
Sam, who spoke with great earnestness, and motioned at times eastward.
That he was speaking about the slashers, and why he had sent for
assistance, Jean was certain.

These newcomers were a sturdy and formidable band of hunters. They
were of powerful physique, in the prime of life, and their faces
inspired Jean with hope and confidence. They were clad in buckskins,
and armed with muskets, hatchets, and hunting-knives. They were
warriors now, ready for the fray with the slashers, their enemies of
years. They were King George's men, as well, true and loyal. Several
of them had the proud distinction of kneeling at Fort Howe five years
before and taking the oath of fidelity to the King. They never wearied
of telling about that event, and of the grand pow-wow which followed
the signing of the treaty. It had been a notable time for them. After
they had taken the oath of allegiance, they delivered to Colonel
Francklin a string of Wampum as a solemn confirmation of their deed.
Following this there was great mirth when they had drunk the King's