"She is the sister of Soog-u-gest."
"Is she not his wife?" demanded Dudley.
But Sassacus, merely shaking his head, made no reply.
"The proud savage disdains to answer your question, Master Dudley," observed Endicott, with a smile.
"Nay," answered Dudley. "It is because he cannot deny it."
"We will see," said Winthrop; and he put the question.
It was as Endicott (better acquainted from his longer residence in the country than the others with the feelings of the natives) had suggested, for now Sassacus spoke without hesitation.
"Soog-u-gest is the woman's brother. His wigwam is large. The woman and Neebin, the little sister of Sassacus, live in one part, and Soog-u-gest and his men in the other."
An expression of great astonishment was visible in the faces of the members of the Council, as Sassacus avowed his relationship to the little girl, but nothing was said. The thoughtful countenance of Winthrop became still more grave, and a moment or two passed before he asked the next question.
"Why did Sassacus give away his own sister?"