ht. In spite of
rumors of war and tightly guarded Fort-gates, you found his door wide
open to whosoever might approach, with never a dog to bark at an
intruder, be he white or red. This is because the Silver-man has
always dealt fairly with the Indian, and won his respect and gratitude
in return. Now, in time of peril this trader dares to believe in their
good faith toward him and his. 'T is because of this I know so well
all that is going on without, and have been able to inform Captain
Heald of much his scouts were unable to discover. From the first there
have been two factions among the savages gathered yonder; and whether
we live or die may depend upon which counsel prevails among them--that
of peace or that of war. Until within an hour I have hoped it might be
peace,--that the older chiefs would hold their young men in control,
and the red wampum be not seen at Dearborn. Twenty minutes ago one of
the noblest advocates of peace,--a Pottawattomie warrior named Black
Partridge,--sought interview with Captain Heald, and his words have
shown me how desperate indeed has our situation become."

"He threatened?" broke in De Croix, his hand upon his sword-hilt.

"Nay, Monsieur, 't is not the way of an Indian, nor is Black Partridge
one to indulge in vain words. I have known him long; in childhood I
sat upon his knee, and believe him so friendly to the whites that
naught but a sense of duty could move him otherwise. Yet, as I say, he
came just now to the commandant of this garrison, and returned a medal
once given him by the government. It was done sadly, and with deep
regret,--for I overheard his speech. He said: 'Father, I come to
deliver up to you the medal I wear. It was given me by the Americans,
and I have long worn it in token of our mutual friendship. Our young
men are resolved to imbue their hands in the blood of the whites. I
cannot restrain them, and I will not wear a token of peace while I am
compelled to act as an enemy.'"

She stopped, her agitated face buried in her hands, and neither of us
spoke. The solemnity of her words and manner were most impressive.

"You feel, then, that the die is cast?" asked De Croix, all lightness
vanished from his voice.

"I believe we march forth from these walls to our death to-morrow."

"But why," I protested, "should you, at least, take part in such
hazard? Your father's family, you tell us, will be safe from attack.
Surely, that home might also prove you