e accomplished wonders with
the Indians. Not long ago I visited the Village of Peace--the Indian
name for the mission--and was struck by the friendliness and
industry which prevailed there. Truly it was a village of peace. Yet
it is almost to early to be certain of permanent success of this
work. The Indian's nature is one hard to understand. He is naturally
roving and restless, which, however, may be owing to his habit of
moving from place to place in search of good hunting grounds. I
believe--though I must confess I haven't seen any pioneers who share
my belief--that the savage has a beautiful side to his character. I
know of many noble deeds done by them, and I believe, if they are
honestly dealt with, they will return good for good. There are bad
ones, of course; but the French traders, and men like the Girtys,
have caused most of this long war. Jonathan and Wetzel tell me the
Shawnees and Chippewas have taken the warpath again. Then the fact
that the Girtys are with the Delawares is reason for alarm. We have
been comparatively quiet here of late. Did you boys learn to what
tribe your captors belong? Did Wetzel say?"

"He did not; he spoke little, but I will say he was exceedingly
active," answered Joe, with a smile.

"To have seen Wetzel fight Indians is something you are not likely
to forget," said Colonel Zane grimly. "Now, tell me, how did those
Indians wear their scalp-lock?"

"Their heads were shaved closely, with the exception of a little
place on top. The remaining hair was twisted into a tuft, tied
tightly, and into this had been thrust a couple of painted pins.
When Wetzel scalped the Indians the pins fell out. I picked one up,
and found it to be bone."

"You will make a woodsman, that's certain," replied Colonel Zane.
"The Indians were Shawnee on the warpath. Well, we will not borrow
trouble, for when it comes in the shape of redskins it usually comes
quickly. Mr. Wells seemed anxious to resume the journey down the
river; but I shall try to persuade him to remain with us awhile.
Indeed, I am sorry I cannot keep you all here at Fort Henry, and
more especially the girls. On the border we need young people, and,
while I do not want to frighten the women, I fear there will be more
than Indians fighting for them."

"I hope not; but we have come prepared for anything," said Kate,
with a quiet smile. "Our home was with uncle, and when he announced
his intention of going west we decided our duty was to go