“You, too!”
My heart ached when I failed to discover any trace of Patricia. Before I could question the trader, Ward yanked me to my feet and turned me about, and I found myself looking into the eyes of Black Hoof.
“The young man made a very brave fight,” he said.
“It is sad to know a skunk and not a Shawnee warrior captured me,” I replied.
Ward glared murder at me. Black Hoof gave him a warning glance, and informed me:
“Red Arrow is a Shawnee warrior. Very brave. Very cunning. He will help us take the cabins on the creek.”
“You have tried once?” I asked, glancing at the man with the broken shoulder.
The chief’s brows contracted.
“Some of my young men were very foolish,” he replied. “When Catahecassa tries, the first time will be the last.”
From the direction of the settlement came the scream of a panther, and at the sound the camp seemed to stir uneasily. With a fiery glance at the warriors Black Hoof gave an order, and a score of men glided into the forest. To me he quietly said: