Every warrior present knew that the visitor was a man of truth, and his words caused a sensation. White Eyes seized the "psychological moment," and, turning to the assemblage, asked whether they should listen to the words of those who had always been their friends. The warriors replied as one voice that they would. Accordingly, the drum was beaten and the whole body moved to the council house, where friendly addresses were spoken. When they were finished, White Eyes stepped forward and offered his hand to Heckewelder, saying: "You are welcome, my brother," and the others did likewise.
It was a triumph. Captain Pipe was silent, and soon after, his spies brought him word that everything told by the white men was true. White Eyes sent his runners to the Shawnees, where the Tories had already gone to stir up enmity against the Americans, and the messengers did their work well. Never was a more complete victory gained by diplomat, statesman, or military leader.
Ever anxious for peace, White Eyes made a visit to Pittsburg in the winter of 1779-80, to talk with the Indian agent. He went with General McIntosh to the country of the Tuscaroras, where a fort was to be built for the protection of the neutral Indians, but, sad to say, he took the smallpox and died.
The death of the great and good chief caused profound grief not only among the Delawares, but with other tribes. One of the truest friends the American Indians ever knew had gone to his final hunting grounds.
White Eyes being out of the way, Captain Pipe naturally gained control of his people. He fought on the side of the British, and at times showed a high sense of honor and chivalry. He is believed to have died about the year 1820.
CHAPTER VI
THE GREATEST OF INDIAN CONSPIRATORS