After this conversation Dave consulted with White Buffalo. “I will need you no longer,” he said to the chief. “I will march to Will’s Creek with these soldiers. But my father may need you and you had best go back to him and tell him of what has occurred. If you meet any of your braves on the way, take them with you.”
“I will do as the young white hunter wishes,” answered the Indian. “But if the French number a thousand, what can the white boy’s father do against so many, even with the help of White Buffalo? My tribe is fallen to decay and now numbers but three score, and many are old and can fight no longer.”
The last words were spoken sadly and Dave pitied the warrior, who had in his younger years been at the head of a powerful tribe.
“Do your best, White Buffalo,” he said, placing his hand on the Indian’s shoulder. “Stand by my father and the Great Spirit will surely reward you.” So they parted, and soon White Buffalo and his followers had vanished on the back trail.
The march to Will’s Creek came to an end three days later. The appearance of the ensign with his men surprised Washington a great deal and he quickly asked for the particulars of what had occurred. In the party were several Indian chiefs sent by the half-king and other sachems to learn what the English were doing and when they would come west.
Realizing the increased gravity of the situation, Washington acted promptly. One chief he sent to Governor Dinwiddie, the other he told to return to the half-king with the news that he was coming to open the way for a large body of English soldiers, and he asked that the half-king meet him for the purpose of holding a council of war.
CHAPTER XXV
SOLDIERS OF THE WILDERNESS
“Uncle Joe, what brings you to Will’s Creek?”
Dave uttered the words as he hurried forward to meet his uncle, who was standing outside the principal store in the tiny settlement.
“Dave!” ejaculated Joseph Morris, as he wrung his nephew’s hand warmly. “I’ve been looking for either you or your father for a sennight. Is all well at the trading-post?”