“Why not save life?” demanded Deerfoot simply. “You my brother. Me always save brother’s life.” He extended his hand to Joseph, who grasped it in silence. Then the Pottowattomie turned to Robert and also shook hands with him.
This solemn rite having been performed, the three brothers turned their attention to the fight. For a time they had been oblivious to everything but their own affairs. The fight was ended, however. The Indians had been driven from their positions and now occupied a piece of rising ground overlooking the Wisconsin River.
They remained in that place only a short time, however, for the troops pursued them relentlessly. The Sacs fired a few more shots from the top of the rise and then turned and retreated swiftly down the bluffs to join the main body, which was engaged in crossing the river. The troops soon occupied the bluffs, and further pursuit was considered useless.
Between the army and the river was a swampy bit of ground, some sixty yards wide. On the river bank was a heavy growth of timber. The white commanders seeing that the Indians could reach this protection before being overtaken decided to give up the chase for the night.
“A few more battles like that and the war will soon be over,” remarked Robert enthusiastically, when camp had been pitched.
“Yes,” agreed Mason. “They seem to be on the run now all right.”
“I’m glad I was in it,” exclaimed Robert. “It is a pleasanter sensation to be the one to do the winning than it is to have to run away. Until now we have been mostly on the defensive.”
“I’m glad I was in it, too,” said Joseph quietly. “I’m more than glad to be here right now though. If it hadn’t been for Deerfoot I’d have been dead.”
“There’s no doubt of that,” agreed Robert heartily. “Deerfoot,” he added, “you are a hero. Get up and make a bow.”
“No bow,” said Deerfoot. He shifted his position uncomfortably and was much embarrassed by these remarks of Robert’s. He did not desire praise for doing what he considered merely his duty.