"Tobias, the Sachem of Nipmuck's son, and two others, have slain John Susaman, the missionary," he said.
"Killed gentle John!" exclaimed Josh—"are you sure, Will?"
"My own eyes saw it," said the Indian. "They waylaid John, knocked him on the head, and thrust him dead into the pond near Middleborough. I was on the other side and watched the Sachem's son, Tobias, and the two others, do the deed. Knowing they do not love the men of my tribe, I was afraid, and hid myself in the long rushes. They struck John from behind, so that he did not see. He never moved again. Then they put him into the hole. I waited till the wicked ones were on their way back to tell the Sachem the evil work was finished, then I ran all day and all night to warn you. King Philip is angry; he has sworn he will drive the white man out of the hunting grounds."
"I know it," answered Josh. "I fear this means war."
"As the arrow flies through the air swiftly and slays, so the Indian will drop down into your midst, and the scalps of the white men will be his reward," said Will Narburton.
"Hush!" said Josh, "I hear my mother's step on the stairs; she must not be alarmed."
The Indian raised his head and whispered: "No tell missis, she woman, she frightened; tell master."
He had hardly given utterance to this sentiment when a tall comely woman, in the close cap, plain black gown, and white bibbed apron of the New England matron, came out into the porch, and seeing Will Narburton, smiled a welcome.