Then he began mingling with the other members of the company and engaging them in conversation, and quickly got acquainted with quite a number. He was a good-natured, jolly youth, and could make friends easily, and he endeavored to make a good impression, now, for he wished to learn all he could about the fort, and its strength, and also its weaknesses, with a view to carrying the information to General Greene as soon as he could make his escape.
His only worry was, what had become of his brother Dick?
CHAPTER XI
At the Stake
Dick and Ben were horrified, as well as amazed when they were confronted by the encircling gang of Indians.
That they could not escape was evident, for the redskins had them at such a disadvantage it would be folly to try to do so. They would be either cut down by tomahawks or pierced by arrows before they could draw their pistols.
The Indian who had spoken first now said something to his companion braves in a guttural voice, and a couple advanced and bound the arms of Dick and Ben together behind their backs.
Then they were encompassed about by the redskins and conducted away through the forest. They traveled westward for a period of two or three hours, and then they reached the camp of the Indians.
Dick and Tom were placed in a wigwam near the center of the village, and guards were placed about the wigwam.
“Well, this isn’t very pleasant, Dick,” said Ben, when they were alone.
“No, it isn’t, Ben,” was the reply.