When the village was reached, Colonel Crawford seized a forlorn hope of escaping by appealing to a Shawanoe chief named Wingenund, who had frequently visited his house, and between whom quite a strong friendship existed.
When the chief learned that Colonel Crawford was painted black, he knew that nothing could save him, and he withdrew to his own lodge that he might not witness his sufferings; but Crawford sent for him, and the chief could not refuse to go to his friend.
Their meeting was quite affecting, the chief showing some embarrassment and pretending to be uncertain of the identity of the prisoner, through his paint.
"You are Colonel Crawford, I believe."
"Yes, Wingenund, you must remember me."
"Yes, I have not forgotten you; we have often drank and eaten together, and you have been kind to me many times."
"I hope that friendship remains, Wingenund."
"It would remain forever, if you were in any place but this, and were what you ought to be."
"I have been engaged only in honorable warfare, and when we take your warriors prisoners we treat them right."
The chief looked meaningly at the poor captive and said,