That which astonished the Wyandots was the evidence that the third boy who approached did not do so as a captive. Unlike the others, he came as the friend and guest of their own chief, one of the most famous leaders of the Wyandot tribe. Not only that, but Hua-awa-oma was an implacable foe of the settlers along the Ohio and in Kentucky.
No wonder, therefore, that the warriors were astonished.
Will and George were as much amazed as was Jack to see them. They rose from the log, and the elder said--
"Well, they have got us all at last; we may as well give up now."
"Why, boys, I am not a prisoner. This is the chief and his son, and they are friends of mine."
The faces of the brothers lightened, but they did not feel sure that Jack was not mistaken. He read their doubts, and added--
"There is no mistake about it; I have been out in the wood yonder teaching Arowaka how to wrestle, and the chief was so pleased that he asked me to come into camp with him."
"How do you know what he means to do with you?" asked George.
"I have no fear about that," was the reply of Jack. "I showed mercy to his son when he didn't expect it, and the chief is grateful."
"We are glad to know that you are safe," said Will, speaking in a low voice, so that none of the Wyandots should overhear him; "but the chief has no reason to spare George and me."