“Yes, but only to this place; our messenger would be seen entering the fort. We can come back here ourselves, and meet one from you.”
“True—it is better so,” replied the commissioner, apparently pleased with the arrangement.
A few minutes passed, during which the two generals communicated with each other in while whispers, the chiefs stood apart, silent and immobile as a pair of statues.
The commander-in-chief at length broke the silence:
“Lieutenant! you will remain upon the ground till the chiefs return. Get their report, and bring it direct to my quarters.”
Salutations were exchanged; the two generals walked off on the path that led to the fort, while the chiefs glided silently away in the opposite direction. I was left alone.
Note 1. So Lusta Hajo was called by the Americans. His full name was Fuchta-Lusta-Hajo, which signifies “Black Crazy Clay.”
Note 2. A name given to the Micosaucs, from their custom of setting up red poles in front of their houses when going to war. A similar custom exists among other tribes; hence the name “Baton Rouge,” applied by the French colonists.