So after a few days when their preparations were completed, they left the safe and comfortable home to take the trail that led to the forests.
Their departure was somewhat delayed by the arrival of good Pastor
Eliot, who came with his young wife to visit the Bradleys.
He was a pious and good man, and he discussed the proposition, which the children had in mind, with conscientious care.
"If we were living in England," he said, "I, no doubt, would dissuade the children from making so hazardous a trip. But since I have lived in America, I have learned many a lesson. Here the people are different. They are men and women, while in years they still are boys and girls. They think in terms which in old England only mature men and women use. They are not afraid of anything. The forest is their home. Hard work is their pleasure. Enterprises are the topic of their conversation. The spirit of adventure is bred into their hearts. What shall we say of this peculiar and heroic generation? May the Lord keep them in piety; otherwise, we, trusting in our strength, will perish."
"Your words are very true," Mrs. Bradley said; "but these children, thank God, are pious and unspoiled. They honor and respect their superiors; they are devout in their prayers and Bible studies; they care nothing for the sinful pleasures of the world; but I wish they would not go to dangerous Connecticut."
"We must entrust them to the Lord," said the good pastor; "perhaps some good will come out of this mission."
So after many a prayer and with many blessings, our three friends left their New England home, accompanied by an Indian guide and an Indian servant who had charge of the three pack horses.
CHAPTER VIII
PEQUOT INDIANS
"Hm," Fred muttered to himself, as he gazed around in wonder. "What is this?"