The hunter and savage, both being on the ground, were in blank darkness, and although their forms, if standing on their feet, would have been plainly discernible, yet under the thick shadows of the undergrowth, they might have touched each other without knowing it. The hunter, however, as he lay, caught the outlines of the savage’s head against the fading light of the fire behind him, as he raised it. This gave him a knowledge of his position and determined his own mode of action.
Without the least noise, he slid slowly forward until he was so close that he could actually hear the Indian’s breath. Then he purposely made a slight movement. The Indian raised his head, and was gradually coming to his feet, when the hunter bounded like a dark ball forward, clutched him by the throat, and bearing him like a giant to the earth, drove his hunting knife again and again to the hilt in his heart. It was a fearful act, yet there was no hesitation upon the hunter’s part. He felt that it must be done.
He loosened his grip upon his victim’s throat, when there was not a spark of life left. Then casting his body to one side, he made his way back to his companions. Here, in a few words, he explained what had taken place. It was evident that the Indians were so cautious and alarmed, that the most consummate skill was required, to accomplish the work in hand.
Suddenly an ingenious plan occurred to Graham. It was to dress himself in the fallen Indian’s dress, walk boldly into their camp, and be guided by circumstances. After a moment’s consultation, it was acquiesced in by all. Haldidge made his way to where the savage lay, and hastily stripping him, returned with his garments. These Graham donned in a few moments, and was ready. It was agreed that he should walk leisurely among them, while Haverland and Haldidge would follow him, and remain nigh enough to be ready at a moment’s warning. If discovered, he was to seize Ina and make off in the woods, while his two friends would rush forward, free Seth, and make an onslaught upon the others.
The fire was now so low, that Graham had little fear of exposing himself unless compelled to hold a conversation. The savages started as he came to view, but fortunately said nothing, as they supposed it to be their comrade. Graham walked leisurely to the almost dead fire, and seated himself by Seth. The savages continued placidly smoking their pipes.
“Ugh!” grunted Graham, peering into Seth’s face. The latter started slightly, looked up, and understood all in a moment. Seth pointed to his feet; Graham nodded.
“Say, you, you was clever enough to tie up my feet, and, now just have the kindness to move ’em a little nearer the fire. Come, do, and I’ll remember you in my will.”
Graham mumbled something, and, stooping forward as he moved the feet slightly, dexterously cutting the thong at the same moment.
“Much obliged,” said Seth; “that’ll dew: needn’t take no further trouble, you old painted heathen.”