For the next few days Douglas was in a fever of unrest. Now he had an additional incentive to escape. His country again needed his services. He could not delay much longer—he must make the attempt, though he should court death in so doing. He said to himself:
“I’ll go to Bradford and give him warning of my intentions. I cannot break my word—I cannot act a dishonorable part, even to gain my liberty. No doubt he’ll disarm me and place me under close surveillance. No matter; I’ll elude the vigilance of his red hounds in some way. Perhaps I can make my way to Fort Wayne. The Indians are inflamed by the declaration of war; it will not be safe for me to remain here much longer—especially, if Bradford should be called away. Why does that man hold me captive? Idle question! I can’t answer it. Great heaven! Almost a year has passed since I left Amy. I’ll delay no longer. I’ll risk all upon one cast of the die!”
That evening another Indian runner arrived in the village. He came from Malden, and brought a message from Tecumseh to Tenskwatawa, to enlist all the warriors he could, and send them to Canada at once. The great chief promised that all who would come should be paid for their services and share in the plunder.
Tenskwatawa at once set about the work. His persuasive powers were great; the Indians feared his baleful influence; and scarcely a brave dared to disobey his orders. Within a surprisingly short time, he had a large number enlisted and ready to set out. Tecumseh had sent word that the women and children of the warriors enlisting should be sent, under escort, beyond the Mississippi; and that the Prophet should then raise another force to attack Vincennes. The great Shawnee promised to return and lead the attack upon that place. Tenskwatawa carried out his brother’s orders to the letter.
La Violette did not accompany the women and children on their long and lonely journey. The Prophet desired that she should do so; but she appealed to Bradford, with the result that she was permitted to stay with the few Indians remaining at the village—most of whom were Miamis that stubbornly refused to cast their lots in with the British.
All this occurred within a few days after the arrival of the runner from Canada.
This messenger also brought a sealed message from the English commander, to Bradford. Immediately upon its receipt, the latter went to Douglas and said:
“As you know, I’m in the employ of the British. I’ve just received instructions to go among the various tribes still remaining neutral, and try to enlist their services in behalf of the English government. I must start at once. Probably I shall be gone some weeks. You will remain here until I come back. You’ll not be lonely. La Violette will be your companion.”—He smiled a meaning smile.—“On my return we three will go to Canada. I’m sorry to part from you—for so short a time, even; but it can’t be helped. I don’t mind telling you that if my mission proves successful—as it will—it means thousands of pounds to me. And you shall share in my good-fortune. You will do as I wish?”
“I will not,” was the positive answer. “Why should I?”