"I don't want to be tipped over and drownded, arter we've got away from the Injins," said he, in apology for his timidity.
"I'm sure I don't fear the water, after the terrible scenes we have passed through," replied Fanny; "but there is no danger."
"I dunno 's there is; but even the little Injin boy was skeered when she tipped so."
"I ought to have unfastened this rope before we hoisted the sail," added Fanny, pointing to the sheet.
"I ain't afeerd, if you ain't, Fanny. I don't reckon we could 'a paddled her over to the island in seven year."
"It would have taken a long time," said Fanny, glancing back at the smoking buildings of the settlement.
She was sad at heart when she thought of the murder and destruction which had occurred that morning. It was pleasant on the lake, but neither Fanny nor Ethan was in a condition to enjoy the sail. Each was thinking of friends in the settlement who had probably been slain by the remorseless savages. Fanny steered the bateau in silence, till she reached the shore of the island, which was about two miles from the point where the party had embarked. It was very small, containing not more than half an acre of land. A single tree grew on the highest part, and all of it was covered with grass, like the ground on the western shores of the lake.
A landing was effected under the lee of the land, and the cargo of the bateau removed to the shore. Wahena was taken to the middle of the island, and fastened to the tree. From this point a view of all the surrounding country could be obtained, and with ordinary care on the part of the exiles, it would be impossible for an enemy to approach without their knowledge. The provisions and other articles were transported on the wheelbarrow to the tree.
"I should kinder like this, ef the folks hadn't all been killed off," said Ethan, when the work was done, and he had seated himself at Fanny's side, in the shade of the tree.
"We were very fortunate to escape with our lives, Ethan, and I feel very thankful," replied Fanny.