possible, from the place where the adventurers lay, to distinguish
the outlines of the mountains. In vain did the Delaware turn
his head eastward, to catch a glimpse of the promised star; for,
notwithstanding the clouds broke a little near the horizon in
that quarter of the heavens, the curtain continued so far drawn as
effectually to conceal all behind it. In front, as was known by
the formation of land above and behind it, lay the point, at the
distance of about a thousand feet. No signs of the castle could
be seen, nor could any movement in that quarter of the lake reach
the ear. The latter circumstance might have been equally owing to
the distance, which was several miles, or to the fact that nothing
was in motion. As for the ark, though scarcely farther from the
canoe than the point, it lay so completely buried in the shadows
of the shore, that it would not have been visible even had there
been many degrees more of light than actually existed.

The adventurers now held a conference in low voices, consulting
together as to the probable time. Deerslayer thought it wanted
yet some minutes to the rising of the star, while the impatience
of the chief caused him to fancy the night further advanced, and
to believe that his betrothed was already waiting his appearance on
the shore. As might have been expected, the opinion of the latter
prevailed, and his friend disposed himself to steer for the place
of rendezvous. The utmost skill and precaution now became necessary in
the management of the canoe. The paddles were lifted and returned
to the water in a noiseless manner; and when within a hundred
yards of the beach, Chingachgook took in his, altogether laying
his hand on his rifle in its stead. As they got still more within
the belt of darkness that girded the woods, it was seen that they
were steering too far north, and the course was altered accordingly.