“A big band has been here,” he said. “They slept on the island last night, and the signs show that they do not come as friends.”
“Are you sure of that?” asked Dan.
“Okématan is sure of nothing. Even the sun may not rise to-morrow.”
“Had we not better, then, return at once to the Settlement, and tell what we have seen?” said Dan.
“If we did, the Saulteaux would see us and give chase. Their canoes are big and have strong men in them. They would overtake us soon and our scalps would be swinging at their belts to-morrow.”
“Not pleesant to think of—whatever,” said Fergus.
“What, then, do you advise?” asked Dan. “You understand the ways of the wilderness, and we will follow your lead.”
The chief appeared to think for a few moments.
“We will remain where we are,” he said; “only we will send the boys off in one of the canoes, as if to shoot some ducks for us. The Saulteaux will think that we are lazy, idle men, who like to lie in camp and sleep or smoke while the boys hunt for us. When night comes we will escape in the dark and go down the river to warn the settlers.”
“But what if they attack us before night comes on?” asked Dan.