bsequent
inquiries, which were now made with the characteristic cunning of
savages.

Instead of rushing in a confused and disorderly throng to the cavern,
ten of the wisest and firmest among the chiefs were selected to
prosecute the investigation. As no time was to be lost, the instant the
choice was made the individuals appointed rose in a body, and left the
place without speaking. On reaching the entrance, the younger men in
advance made way for their seniors; and the whole proceeded along the
low, dark gallery, with the firmness of warriors ready to devote
themselves to the public good, though, at the same time, secretly
doubting the nature of the power with which they were about to contend.

The outer apartment of the cavern was silent and gloomy. The woman lay
in her usual place and posture, though there were those present who
affirmed they had seen her borne to the woods, by the supposed "medicine
of the white men." Such a direct and palpable contradiction of the tale
related by the father, caused all eyes to be turned on him. Chafed by
the silent imputation, and inwardly troubled by so unaccountable a
circumstance, the chief advanced to the side of the bed, and stooping,
cast an incredulous look at the features, as if distrusting their
reality. His daughter was dead.

The unerring feeling of nature, for a moment prevailed, and the old
warrior hid his eyes in sorrow. Then recovering his self-possession, he
faced his companions, and pointing towards the corpse, he said, in the
language of his people,--

"The wife of my young man has left us! the Great Spirit is angry with
his children."

The mournful intelligence was received in solemn silence. After a short
pause, one of the elder Indians was about to speak, when a dark-looking
object was seen rolling out of an adjoining apartment, into the very
centre of the room where they stood. Ignorant of the nature of the
beings they had to deal with, the whole party drew back a little, and
gazed in admiration, until the object fronted the light, and rising on
end, exhibited the distorted, but still fierce and sullen features of
Magua. The discovery was succeeded by a general exclamation of
amazement.

As soon, however, as the true situation of the chief was understood,
several ready knives appeared, and his limbs and tongue were quickly
released. The Huron arose, and shook himself like a lion quitting his
lair. Not a word escaped him, though his hand played convulsi