“Cap’n’s talking to the redskins. Come aft, sir, please.”
Then the waving white thing was explained; there were Indians on the far bank, seeking, under cover of the white flag, to parley with the Captain. Atkinson joined him and, as well as he was able, followed the dialogue.
“If you want to speak to me, you must send at least ten of your men aboard.”
“I have not so many with me.”
“Liar. I saw over a hundred of you a few minutes ago. Where’s your hopeful leader? Where’s Black Hawk?”
“They were but women and children whom you saw.”
“Where’s Black Hawk?”
“Are those General Atkinson’s warriors on the other bank?”
“Yes,” interrupted the old soldier explosively; “and I reckon you’ll find that out purty soon.”
“Where is Black Hawk?” once more demanded the Captain.