“Perfectly. Here’s your gun. I think a little tramping about the woods will do you good. At least, it will help you to pass the time. You may go out with the Indians or by yourself, as you please. You have given me your word—I can trust you.”
Having his trusty rifle again in his possession, Douglas felt more like a man—less like a prisoner. Every day, almost, he took a long jaunt through the woods adjacent to the village, his weapon upon his shoulder. His object was twofold. He desired to toughen his muscles and regain his old powers of endurance, and to become acquainted with the topography of the surrounding country. For he meant to make another desperate effort to escape, as soon as he felt equal to the task.
April gave place to May. The trees were in full leaf; the wild flowers, in full bloom. The air was warm and fragrant; and the birds sang all day long, in the dark, cool woodland.
Ross was now completely recovered from the effects of his wound, and ready for the project upon which his heart was set. But he was in a quandary. He could not make up his mind to break his promise to Bradford; yet he feared the result of making known his intentions. Would not his rifle again be taken from him and himself be confined and guarded as at Wildcat Creek? While he debated the question, the sunshiny days sped swiftly by.
About the middle of the month, a council of twelve tribes was held at the Miami village. Ringing speeches were made by various chiefs. Each tribe sought to lay the blame of the battle of Tippecanoe and its results upon the other. Much bad feeling existed. Tecumseh made an effort to reconcile and reunite the tribes of his confederacy, but failed. The council was a fiasco—so far as the great chief’s desires and intentions were concerned. After indulging in mutual recriminations, and expressing themselves as being desirous of living at peace with the Americans, the members of the council took their departure—and the farce was at an end.
A number of white men were present, as spectators, at the council. But Bradford kept a close watch upon his prisoner; and the latter got no opportunity to communicate with the visitors. Whether they were Americans, or British subjects from across the lakes, Douglas could not ascertain.
About the first of June, Tecumseh, accompanied by a number of warriors, went to Fort Wayne and demanded ammunition. He was very haughty, and firm in his old opinions and intentions. The agent sought to induce him to remain at peace with the United States, but refused to give him ammunition.
Tecumseh made answer:
“My British father will not refuse my request. To him I will go.”