Shortly afterwards, the second band, who were expected, made their appearance in the distance, and, as before, the warriors hurried out to meet them.
I was still talking to Maysotta, when I saw her look towards the approaching party, and an expression of astonishment take possession of her countenance.
"What have our braves been doing?" she said. "They have made a prisoner of our friend the young white chief."
As she spoke, I looked in the same direction, and I too was greatly astonished, and also much alarmed, at seeing Lieutenant Broadstreet, with his arms tied behind him, in the midst of the warriors—his two troopers following, closely guarded.
"What can have happened?" I exclaimed. "What can have become of Clarice and Rachel? My dear sister! some accident must have befallen her."
"I will learn what has happened," said Maysotta.
I hurried to Winnemak, and explained that his people had made prisoners of those who were on their way to visit his camp.
He thought I was mistaken; but I assured him that I was not, and that his daughter would corroborate my statement. On hearing this he ordered the prisoners to be brought forward, when, at once recognizing the lieutenant and the two troopers, he ordered them to be set at liberty.
Hurrying up to my friend, I eagerly inquired for Clarice and her attendant.
His emotion would scarcely allow him to reply. He seemed dreadfully cast down, as well as weak and faint from want of food.